The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) yesterday extended its appreciation to the government and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for their engagement in addressing the recent announcement of US tariffs.

JAAF in a statement commended the action taken by the government led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, whose timely negotiations with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and offers made by President AKD in his formal communications with President Donald Trump, have played a critical role in safeguarding the industry.

It said: “Thanks to these efforts, it is likely that Sri Lanka will be included in the 90-day pause, providing much-needed stability and confidence for the export sector. These efforts are a strong indication of the government’s commitment to protecting Sri Lanka’s export industries and would be instrumental in protecting livelihoods and maintaining confidence across the sector.

It is important that the fast and decisive action already initiated is continued so we can finalize a beneficial trade arrangement with the United States that extends beyond the 90 day pause period.”

School administration had been severely affected by the irregular appointment of acting principals under previous governments, Parliament was told on Wednesday.

Responding to questions raised by the Opposition during the ‘Ask the PM’ session, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said the current government had decided to implement a standardised policy and procedure for appointing principals across all schools.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya said the previous government had made the process of appointing school principals chaotic.

“Without a proper procedure, acting principals were appointed. This left the school administration system in disarray. We are now following a proper process in line with existing regulations, to rectify the situation. Principals are appointed to all national schools and vacancies are filled in a proper manner.

The Prime Minister also addressed concerns related to the Gampaha Wickramarachchi Institute of Indigenous Medicine.

“Several issues were identified based on written and verbal complaints received from various parties. An expert committee has been appointed to conduct a formal and analytical investigation. Discussions were held with both academic staff and students, and several key concerns emerged during the initial meetings,” she said, adding that the Gampaha Wickramarachchi Institute of Indigenous Medicine had been upgraded to university status without basic facilities.

“New faculties and degree programmes were introduced without adequate human resources or infrastructure. Moreover, beyond its core focus on indigenous medicine, programs in technology, social sciences, and management were established,” the Prime Minister said.

She said that a formal committee had been appointed to investigate the matter and prepare a report with recommendations for appropriate action.

David Pieris Motor Company (Private) Limited (DPMC),on Thursday announced the launch of three new Bajaj Pulsar motorcycles — the Pulsar N125, Pulsar N160 Premium and Pulsar NS200 USD. This marks the first and biggest motorcycle launch in the country following the recent lifting of vehicle import restrictions.

These new models are set to redefine the local two-wheeler landscape, offering riders advanced technology, superior safety and sporty performance. All models—except the N125—are equipped with ABS braking systems and upside-down front shock absorbers, delivering enhanced safety and riding comfort as the first in their class.

The Pulsar range, renowned globally for its sporty design, power and thrilling performance, is particularly designed to suit the dynamic lifestyle of the youth, while offering an exhilarating riding experience for all motorcycle enthusiasts.

Speaking on the event, Lakmal de Silva, Chief Officer – Vehicle Sales, DPMC, said; “DPMC was the first to introduce motorcycles such as the Bajaj CT100, Bajaj Discover 125 and Pulsar N160 —even during the import restrictions—through the Local Value Addition (LVA) Programme introduced by the Ministry of Industries three years ago. With the government now lifting vehicle import restrictions, we are witnessing a much-needed revitalisation of the automotive industry, especially in the two-wheeler segment. DPMC continues to lead the way in both LVA and imported motorcycles by introducing cutting-edge models like these.”

He also said; “We are grateful to the government for supporting the industry and look forward to introducing even more new models in the future — including the Bajaj Chetak electric scooter and electric three-wheelers — to ensure affordable, clean mobility and greater value for the Sri Lankan people.”