News
Malay Confederation remains neutral at election
The Sri Lanka Malay Confederation (SLAMAC), the umbrella body of the All Malay organizations in Sri Lanka, says it is not a political organsation and therefore will remain neutral at the upcoming general election.
Secretary General of the SLAMAC Rilwan Lantra has said in a media statement: ” It is noted that for the parliamentary election several members of our community are contesting from different parties. Whilst we wish them well, some who head an association to project themselves as the leaders of our community and that the whole community is supporting them. The Sri Lankan Malays have had a very cordial relationship with all as one Sri Lanka. We do not support party politics, but cast our votes as per our own wishes and in a democratic manner.
“Prominent respected elders of the community representing various Malay associations spearheaded by the Late Brig. T.B. Sally, Late Alhaj Noor Amith and Late T.K. Sabar felt that more integration among them would raise awareness amongst the community to promote and protect their culture. Since these institutions were in isolation spread across the country, integrating with each other would be advantageous to share and enhance their cultural practices. The game Sepak Takraw was introduced by the SLAMAC to the community with the formation of the august body. The Indonesian Embassy was a source to these institutions seeking to study their ancestral practices.
“The then Indonesian Ambassador Sufri Yusuf facilitated the establishment of the Sri Lanka Malay Confederation. Little over 200 members from 16 Malay organizations attended the inaugural meeting held at the Ambassador’s residence on May 18, 1984.” (ZJ)
Police urge motorists who intend to use the Ella – Wellawaya Road to use alternative roads as there is a severe vehicle congestion due to inclement weather condition.
The oil anointing ceremony for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year was held on April 16 at the historic Rajamaha Viharaya in Kolonnawa, with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.
Following the chanting of pirith, the oil anointing ritual was carried out at the auspicious time of 9:04 a.m., by the Chief Incumbent of the temple, Venerable Kolonnawa Dhammika Thero.
Speaking after the ceremony the Prime Minister said that:
“The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is one of the most important festivities in our country. It is a celebration with our families, reflecting our traditions and customs while strengthening the ties.
This festival leads the path for renewing unity, love, and bonds stronger. These values enrich a country. Development of a country is not limited by one-dimensional; a true development includes spirituality, relationships, and connections. The reason why we uphold these customs in such ceremonies is to remind ourselves of the significance and to pass on their value to future generations.
Therefore, today marks a significant day. Throughout this week, we came together and engaged in various activities. Followed by, the next event will mark the leaving for employment at the auspicious time and we should start working collectively to rebuild the country.
I wish everyone a New Year that is prosperous, peaceful, joyful, full of strengthened relationships, and most importantly, safe for all.”
The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Maha Sangha, and attended by the Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara, Divisional Secretary to Kolonnawa Priyanath Perera, Municipal Secretary Nelum Kumari Gamage, and the residents of the area.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
Latest News
Heat Index at ‘Caution Level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts today [16]
Warm Weather Advisory Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology for 16 April 2025
The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the table below and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated. Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
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