Deputy Minister of Lands and Irrigation, Dr. Susil Ranasinghe, announced that an investigation is being planned into the lands distributed under the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.
He stated that the probe will focus on identifying which lands were allocated for various projects, how much land was distributed, and the current status of those lands.
Responding to an oral question raised in Parliament today by National People’s Power (NPP) MP for the Polonnaruwa District, Padmasiri Bandara, the Deputy Minister said one of the major issues in Mahaweli zones is the private distribution of large plots of land—100, 200, 300, or even 500 acres—to actors, former cricketers, and politicians.
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announced today that its All Share Price Index (ASPI) has reached its highest value in history at the close of daily trading.
At the end of the trading session, the ASPI stood at 17,214.39 points, surpassing the previous record of 17,193.8 points set on February 18, 2025. Compared to the previous day, the index recorded a significant increase of 234.50 points, marking a 1.38% rise.
In the realm of geopolitics, no country can exist in isolation—particularly not an island nation like Sri Lanka, strategically positioned in the Indian Ocean. The attention Sri Lanka receives from global powers, especially neighboring India, is no coincidence. India’s keen interest is driven as much by concern as by regional strategy.
In today’s multipolar world, where the West, India, and the U.S. form one bloc, and countries like China, Russia, and others form another, Sri Lanka has become a geopolitical focal point. The recent shift in political power in Sri Lanka only adds to this complexity.
During the last presidential election, the newly formed National People’s Power (NPP), under the leadership of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), surged to power. In a dramatic turnaround, they won 159 out of 225 seats in parliament and secured the presidency, despite having polled just 3% of the vote a mere six months earlier. Voters ousted the Gotabaya Rajapaksa administration amidst economic collapse, turning instead to Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was credited with stabilizing the situation.
However, public discontent with the new government is growing. Citizens are beginning to question whether the promises made while in opposition were genuine or merely campaign rhetoric. Minister K.D. Lalkantha, a key figure in the current administration, recently admitted that governing is fundamentally different from opposing. Once in power, idealism gives way to the realities of governance.
This has led to widespread dissatisfaction, particularly from those who feel betrayed by leaders who once stood with war veterans and now appear to downplay their sacrifices. The new government’s handling of international relations is also under scrutiny, especially in light of an incident involving Russia.
On October 1 of last year, Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Levan S. Dzhagaryan personally delivered an invitation from President Vladimir Putin to then-president-elect Anura Kumara Dissanayake to attend the BRICS Summit. The invitation was declined. The official reason: Dissanayake was busy preparing for the upcoming general election.
When questioned at a recent public forum about when Sri Lanka would officially engage with BRICS, Ambassador Dzhagaryan replied candidly, suggesting that while Russia and China are ready to support Sri Lanka, there has been little indication of enthusiasm or initiative from the Sri Lankan side. He lightly joked about whether the translator conveyed the message properly and urged Sri Lanka to show more practical engagement—not only with BRICS but also with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
This diplomatic tension comes at a time when major global powers like the U.S., China, and India are all vying for influence in Sri Lanka. The lack of transparency surrounding recent agreements signed with India and the unclear stance toward Western and Eastern alliances are feeding public anxiety. Many are unaware of what external pressures are shaping domestic policy decisions.
Meanwhile, controversial issues such as Tamil diaspora activities in Canada, demands for remembrance events for the war dead, and the selection of questionable figures into Parliament have also fueled discontent.
The rejection of Putin’s invitation is not a minor diplomatic incident—it may signal a cooling of longstanding ties between Sri Lanka and Russia, which have deepened in recent years. For a nation looking to maintain balance in its international relations, alienating a key ally like Russia could have consequences, especially as the country continues to recover from economic hardship.
In the public’s eyes, the government’s anti-corruption stance has yet to translate into meaningful action. While promises of justice for economic crimes abound, there has been little follow-through, particularly regarding missing port containers and vehicle import restrictions that have crushed middle-class dreams of owning a car.
The symbolism of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake wearing a double-pocket shirt—similar to Ukraine’s President Zelensky—is noted more for fashion coincidence than any ideological alignment. But as Russian diplomatic frustration grows, it’s clear that Sri Lanka’s foreign policy decisions are being closely watched—and judged—on the global stage.
What remains to be seen is whether the government will begin to align its rhetoric with action, both at home and abroad, before it loses the goodwill it so recently gained.
The Chairman of the Election Commission, Mr. Ananda Rathnayake, announced that 161 out of 339 local government institutions have had their appointments for mayors, deputy mayors, chairpersons, and vice-chairpersons officially gazetted.
However, appointments for the remaining 178 local bodies — including the Colombo Municipal Council — have been postponed. The delay is due to the absence of a clear majority for any single political party in those councils.
As a result, key leadership positions in these 178 councils will need to be decided through internal voting. These elections are scheduled to take place next week, under the supervision of the Provincial Commissioner of Local Government.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today (June 2) declared that the hidden “dark network” undermining the country’s governance will be decisively dismantled.
Speaking at the inauguration of the National Tax Week at the Presidential Secretariat, President Dissanayake emphasized the importance of establishing a lawful and fair system for all citizens. The event also marked the launch of a digital platform by the Inland Revenue Department, where tax submissions for the 2024–2025 assessment year will now be made exclusively online.
Highlighting the scale of illegal operations within the system, the President stated, “There exists a peaceful visible system, but also a dark, hidden mechanism. A network that involves smuggling operations, certain business groups, and even state officials. This ‘black network’ has deep roots — in politics, the public sector, illegal arms, and media. But I assure you, it will be broken.”
He further noted that following recent customs inspections, goods illegally imported under prominent brand names were uncovered, exposing the depth of corruption.
The President stressed that the tax issue extends beyond collection and payment — it reflects a web of systemic exploitation. He warned that even those who accumulate vast wealth will not be spared if they are found guilty: “What’s the point of amassing riches if you end up spending 20 years behind bars?”
He added, “No public servant has the right to misuse people’s tax money. Every rupee will be accounted for. If anyone plans to defraud the system, we will intervene and enforce the law to the fullest extent.”
Calling on all citizens to pay their taxes, President Dissanayake affirmed the government’s commitment to protecting honest taxpayers and ensuring justice within the system.
PARIS — Two people died and a police officer is in a coma following mass celebrations across France after Paris Saint-Germain’s historic UEFA Champions League win, French authorities reported on Sunday.
A 17-year-old boy was fatally stabbed during a PSG street celebration in Dax, while in Paris, a man died after his scooter was struck by a car amid the festivities. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
In Coutance, northwest France, a police officer suffered severe eye injuries after being accidentally hit by fireworks and is currently in an induced coma.
Though most celebrations were peaceful, violence broke out in some areas. By 2 a.m. Sunday, police had made 294 arrests, including 30 suspects who broke into a shoe store on the Champs-Élysées. Two cars were also set on fire near Parc des Princes.
PSG’s team is expected to return to a hero’s welcome and a parade on the Champs-Élysées after defeating Inter Milan 5–0 in the final — their first-ever Champions League title.
Water cannons were used near the Arc de Triomphe to control crowds attempting to breach police lines. In contrast, celebrations at the Place de la Bastille remained jubilant and peaceful, with fans singing, dancing, and setting off flares late into the night.
To prepare for the potential unrest, 5,400 police officers had been deployed throughout Paris and its suburbs.
Three Sri Lankan nationals were arrested by local security forces while attempting to cross the border near the Albania–North Macedonia boundary through a café route. Reports indicate they were preparing to flee to Italy.
Due to initial suspicions that the individuals might be underworld figures and major drug traffickers — Kosgoda Rana, Pare Suddha, and Midigama Chooti — Sri Lanka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) launched a special probe into the matter.
Interpol facilitated information exchange regarding the suspects. However, after examining their passport copies and conducting facial recognition tests, authorities confirmed that the three individuals are not the mentioned criminal figures.
A senior police officer stated that while the suspects are not the identified gang members, investigations are still ongoing to fully verify their identities.
Professor Chandima Jeewandara, Director of the Department of Immunology and Molecular Medicine at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, states that the number of global cases of the COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1 is on the rise.
This variant, a sub-lineage of Omicron, has been classified by the World Health Organization as a monitored variant. First identified in January this year, it has since been detected in numerous countries around the world.
Due to this situation, Professor Jeewandara emphasized that the public in Sri Lanka should continue to follow all possible health safety measures and protocols, noting that doing so remains a wise and responsible practice.
Dr. Deepal Perera, a consultant pediatrician at Colombo’s Lady Ridgeway Hospital, says there has been a noticeable increase in cases of influenza, dengue, and chikungunya among children.
He noted that the rise in dengue and chikungunya cases is linked to the prevailing adverse weather conditions.
Dengue can be fatal and requires caution. Dr. Perera further explained that chikungunya can lead to severe joint pain and swelling lasting for several months.
Pregnant women and the elderly are also advised to be vigilant against chikungunya.
With influenza rapidly spreading among children, Dr. Perera urged the public to take immediate steps to eliminate mosquito breeding sites whenever possible.
A special 10-hour raid was conducted today (30th) at the Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal (TMVP) party office located on Lake Road in Batticaloa by the Police Special Task Force and the Criminal Investigation Department.
At the time of the search, TMVP leader and former MP Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan (alias Pillayan) was not present at the office. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Batticaloa on 8 April arrested him and was detained for 90 days under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) on 12 April. Party activists at the location had requested a court warrant for the search and expressed their objection to the raid being carried out without such an order.
A senior TMVP member told News Wave that a certain excavation was conducted on the party premises, but nothing suspicious was found. The raid was carried out from around 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
During the operation, party members inside the office were not allowed to leave the premises. As of now, the police have not released an official statement regarding the incident.
In a major legal setback for the Trump administration, the US Court of International Trade has invalidated the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping tariffs. The ruling, reported by Morningstar, eliminates all country-specific tariff hikes implemented in 2025, including a 30% hike on Chinese goods and a 10% increase on imports from other nations.
As a result, the average US tariff rate has plunged from about 18% to roughly 7%. While still above the 2024 average of 2.4%, this marks a significant easing of trade tensions and could help dampen inflation and recession risks.
Product-specific tariffs, including 25% levies on autos, steel, and aluminum, remain intact under Section 232 authority, which was not affected by the court’s decision. The administration is also exploring other legal avenues—such as Sections 301 and 122—to reintroduce broad tariffs, although procedural delays could push implementation into late 2025.
Market reactions have been positive, with US stocks recovering near record highs, reflecting optimism that the tariff rollback may soften economic headwinds. However, the possibility of higher tariffs returning—either through new strategies or a reversal by higher courts—keeps the trade outlook uncertain.
Amali Rambukwella, daughter of former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, appeared before the Bribery Commission today (May 29) and gave a statement lasting approximately three hours.
She was summoned in connection with a statement made by Nishantha Bandara, former coordinating secretary to the minister, who alleged that all funds received into a certain bank account had been collected by Amali Rambukwella.
Following a formal notice from the Commission to provide further clarification on the matter, she appeared and gave her testimony accordingly.
Sri Lanka Navy has seized over a ton and a half of heroin and crystal methamphetamine (Ice) so far this year, hidden aboard multi-day fishing vessels attempting to smuggle the drugs into the country via sea routes.
Four such vessels and 22 suspects have been taken into custody during four separate naval operations carried out in 2024.
The seizures include approximately 542 kg of heroin and 1,216 kg of crystal meth (Ice). Key interceptions this year include:
April 5: 191 kg of heroin and 671 kg of Ice
April 12: 77 kg of heroin and 42 kg of Ice
May 28: 274 kg of heroin and 503 kg of Ice
These operations reflect an intensified crackdown on maritime drug trafficking into Sri Lanka.
Ven. Bandarawela Amithananda Thero, a respected and prominent Buddhist preacher, passed away today (May 29) at the Colombo National Hospital.
He was the founder of the Delgoda Youth Dhamma Seela Center and dedicated his life to guiding the younger generation of Sri Lanka toward Buddhist philosophy and moral values.
Ven. Amithananda Thero also established several major religious institutions, including:
Delgoda Udupila Dhamma Mandiraya
Vipassana Meditation Center
Kottunna Siri Devamitta Yogashrama
Kataragama Neelakārāma Mahasen Meditation Center
Attanagalla Urapola Dhamma Mandiraya
Ven. Amithananda Thero appointed learned and disciplined disciples to lead these centers, making a lasting contribution to spreading Buddhism and religious education across the country.
Former Sports Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage and former Trade Minister Nalin Fernando have been sentenced to 20 and 25 years of rigorous imprisonment respectively, over the misappropriation of Rs. 53 million in public funds during the 2015 presidential election period.
The Colombo High Court Trial-at-Bar today (May 29) found both former ministers guilty of misusing state resources by purchasing 14,000 carrom boards and 11,000 draughts boards through Sathosa and distributing them to sports clubs for political gain.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption revealed in court that the accused abused their official powers, resulting in a major financial loss to the state, ultimately affecting the public.
The prosecution requested a strong verdict to deter future corruption and to set an example. After reviewing the evidence, the verdict was delivered by a three-judge bench led by Mahen Weeraman.
Following the Bank of Ceylon’s record-breaking annual income of Rs.107 billion last year, employees have launched a strike in protest against the Ministry of Finance’s decision to withhold performance bonuses approved by the bank’s management for staff.
Accordingly, as of 10:30 a.m. today, Bank of Ceylon employees withdrew from their regular duties and have also decided to step away from daily work operations from 12:30 p.m. onwards.
In addition, if no favorable resolution is provided, the Bank of Ceylon Employees’ Union and the Joint Federation of Trade Unions of the Bank have announced that workers are prepared to escalate to a daily strike starting next week.
In a special operation conducted in the southern deep sea, the Sri Lanka Navy successfully apprehended 11 suspects this morning (28) along with a massive consignment of narcotics being transported on two multi-day fishing vessels. The seized narcotics included 503.618 kg of crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as “Ice”) and 275.594 kg of heroin, totaling 779.212 kg.
The operation was a joint effort involving the State Intelligence Service, Police Narcotics Bureau, and the Regional Coordination Operations Center.
Following the interception, the two fishing vessels were brought to the Dikkowita harbor, after which the Navy handed over the suspects and the drugs to the Police Narcotics Bureau. The bureau then confirmed the identity of the seized substances in the presence of the suspects, marking a significant step in the legal proceedings.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the intercepted vessels are unofficially linked to the Dondra fishing area, based on markings found on board.
The Deputy Minister of Defence, Retired Major General Aruna Jayasekera, Navy Commander, and the Acting Inspector General of Police personally observed the operation. Deputy Minister Jayasekera acknowledged the operation’s national importance and extended his commendation to the Navy and all agencies involved in this high-profile drug bust.
Cabinet approval was granted to recruit 15,073 individuals to fill existing vacancies in the state sector.
Accordingly, the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Training will fill 199 teacher vacancies. The Sabaragamuwa Provincial Ministry of Education will recruit around 6,000 teachers, addressing 3,661 teacher vacancies. The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government will recruit for 1,658 positions. The Ministry of Health and Mass Media received approval to hire 493 personnel, including two postal service officers and 300 for three other vacant roles in the Postal Department.
These recruitment recommendations were based on two reports submitted by an official committee led by the Prime Minister’s Secretary, which reviewed state sector hiring processes and workforce management. The vacancies span 18 line ministries, four provincial councils, and two special expenditure units.
The world’s first humanoid robot boxing match was held in China, organized by the China Media Group (CMG).
This unique event was part of a special program in the “CMG International Robot Competition Series,” which recently concluded in the city of Hangzhou, China. For the first time, the competition featured boxing matches between humanoid robots.
This marks the first-ever combat competition involving humanoid robots, designed as a science and technology exhibition contest for a global audience. The event was broadcast live across CMG’s domestic and international platforms.
The tournament consisted of three rounds, with points awarded based on the effectiveness of strikes. In the final round, the “AI Strategist” robot team claimed victory by delivering a decisive knee strike that knocked down the opponent.
This boxing match served as a significant showcase of cutting-edge robotics technology.
The Queen of Sinhala cinema, known by the name Malini, has taken her final bow. She said her goodbyes at Independence Square. Many poems and stories were written on social media in her honor. Many people expressed their desire to acknowledge that they knew her personally. Others tried to keep the legacy of the unparalleled actress Malini Fonseka alive, even in the face of her passing.
To remain a queen in the hearts of the people for over six decades is no easy feat. It is no small matter to be humble enough to wear one’s crown with grace. Malini gave society such a magnificent legacy. To be such a heavenly flower both on the silver screen and in real life is not something everyone can achieve.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s message of condolence regarding the actress queen’s final moments was delivered by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya. His message stated that Malini’s departure would leave an eternal void in the Sri Lankan film industry.
It read: “Some losses can be replaced. Some are difficult. And some can never be filled again. The seat left empty by the departed actress queen will be an everlasting void in Sri Lanka’s cinema.”
Amidst the sighs of thousands, the exceptional actress Malini Fonseka took her final leave. Though she has left the stage of life, there is no doubt that her brilliant acting talent will remain an indelible memory in this country.
Amid rising dengue risks from the Southwest Monsoon, the Ministry of Health and Mass Media launched an intensified mosquito control campaign from May 19–24 in collaboration with the National Dengue Control Unit. The effort covered 95 MOH divisions across 15 districts.
A total of 128,824 premises were inspected, including homes, schools, offices, and public spaces. Authorities identified 31,145 potential mosquito breeding sites, with 6,077 already containing larvae. Enforcement actions included 3,916 red notices and legal steps against 1,470 premises.
Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. Anil Jasinghe, urged citizens to maintain clean surroundings and dedicate at least one hour weekly to inspections. He thanked the Tri-Forces, Police, Civil Security Department, and volunteers for their vital support, and praised the National Dengue Control Unit for its leadership.
Deputy Health Minister Hansaka Wijemuni stated that only around 45 medicines are genuinely out of stock in government hospitals. He dismissed claims of a shortage of 180 medicines as false.
Five electoral organizers of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party have resigned from their positions.
The resignations include:
Lawyer Champika Wijerathna, Chief Organizer for the Dambulla electorate
Former Provincial Councilor Anura Buddhika, Organizer for the Horowpathana electorate
Former MP Bandulal Bandaragoda, Organizer for the Galle electorate
Former Mayor of Talawakele-Lindula Urban Council Ashoka Espall, Co-organizer for the Nuwara Eliya electorate
Chaminda Wijesiri, Organizer for the Bandarawela electorate
These individuals have submitted their resignation letters to the party leadership, including Party Leader Sajith Premadasa and General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara.
According to political sources, the reason for their resignations stems from dissatisfaction over their opinions being disregarded during the appointment of representatives following the recent local government election results.
Three officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of the Narahenpita branch of the Department of Motor Traffic, have been remanded until June 6 by Colombo Chief Magistrate Tanuja Lakmali. They were arrested on suspicion of accepting approximately Rs. 4 million in bribes from the public within a single day.
The arrests were made yesterday (23) based on a tip-off received by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption. The suspects are accused of soliciting bribes in exchange for expediting vehicle registration and ownership transfer processes—particularly for customers applying for leasing facilities.
According to the intelligence received, the bribes were allegedly collected under the pretext of speeding up services and were then distributed among staff members. The suspects were unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the source of the large sum of money, prompting their arrest by anti-corruption officials.
Rodney Gibbs, former assistant coach of New Zealand’s All Blacks Sevens team, has been appointed as the head coach of the Sri Lanka national rugby team. He is scheduled to officially assume duties on Monday and will serve in this role until the conclusion of the upcoming Asia Rugby Championship.
The championship, featuring teams from Sri Lanka, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and Hong Kong, is set to kick off in June. Sri Lanka’s first match will be against South Korea on June 13, hosted in Sri Lanka. The second match will be played against Hong Kong on June 22 in Hong Kong, while the final game will take place on July 4 in Sri Lanka against the UAE.head coach of the Sri Lanka national rugby team. He is scheduled to officially assume duties on Monday and will serve
The team that tops the points table at the end of the tournament will earn direct qualification to the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The runner-up will have another opportunity to qualify through a playoff match against the African regional runner-up in July.
Former Minister Duminda Dissanayake has been remanded until the 29th of this month by the Mount Lavinia Magistrate’s Court. The order follows his arrest in connection with the discovery of a gold-plated T-56 assault rifle.
Earlier, three individuals—including two women—were arrested for allegedly possessing the firearm at a residence complex in Havelock City. Based on information uncovered during police investigations, former minister Dissanayake was taken into custody yesterday on suspicion.
Legendary actress and former Member of Parliament Malini Fonseka revered as the “Queen of Sinhala Cinema,” passed away early this morning (24th) at the age of 78
She died while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Colombo. Born as Wanniarachchi Malini Fonseka on April 30, 1947, in Kelaniya, she began her acting career through stage drama and made her film debut in 1968 with Punchi Baba.
Malini Fonseka became a beloved figure in Sri Lankan cinema, known for her roles in acclaimed films such as Nidhanaya, Bambaru Awith, Wekande Walawwa, Aaradana, and Ammavarune. Her exceptional talent earned her numerous accolades and solidified her status as one of the industry’s most respected actresses.
In 2010, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa appointed her as a National List MP, marking her political entry. She served in Parliament until 2015, continuing her legacy of public contribution beyond the screen.
“Below is the article written for the last birthday she celebrated before her death.”
As Sri Lanka’s beloved film icon Malini Fonseka celebrates her 78th birthday, Sarasaviya magazine paid tribute to her with a special article—an abridged version of which is presented below.
Despite nearly eight decades of life and more than half a century in film, Malini Fonseka remains the undisputed queen of Sri Lankan cinema. In an industry where even global film dynasties like Hollywood, Bollywood, and Kollywood see their leading ladies eventually fade, Malini has continued to reign, breaking through time’s constraints and holding on to her crown with dignity and grace. Such enduring talent is rare, and Malini stands as a symbol of that rarity.
Cinema is an enchanting art form that transports audiences beyond the ordinary. It captures the human imagination, offering experiences through commercial hits, artistic creations, or culturally rich films. From the inception of Sri Lankan cinema, a diverse range of films has resonated with audiences, stirring emotions and shaping the national psyche.
The golden era of Sri Lankan cinema, often identified as the 1970s, was marked by the production of films that drew mass appeal. The main attraction during this time? The influx of new actors whose charm and screen presence filled theaters from balcony to gallery. Among them, actresses like Rukmani Devi blazed trails, captivating audiences not only with beauty but also with talent. She was revered as the first true queen of Lankan cinema.
Following in her footsteps came Malini Fonseka, known for her gentle spirit and deep dedication to the craft of acting. Her journey wasn’t manufactured—it was destiny. With natural beauty, exceptional talent, and perhaps the karma of a past life, Malini entered cinema not as a novice but as a gifted inheritor of its legacy.
By the time Malini entered the scene, the local film industry was transitioning away from studio-dominated productions toward independent filmmaking. She first rose to prominence on stage, winning the Best Actress award at the 1965 State Drama Festival for her performance in Dharmadasa Jayawardena’s Akal Vessa. Few could have predicted that the young girl on that stage would go on to become a living legend.
Malini’s film debut came in Punchi Baba (1968), directed by Tissa Liyanasuriya, at the age of 18. Even in her first performance, she exhibited a depth and maturity far beyond her years. Without formal training, in a time when acting schools were virtually non-existent in Sri Lanka, she embodied the philosophy that “acting is living truthfully under imaginary circumstances.”
Following her debut, she was cast in five more films before Punchi Baba even hit theaters—evidence of her instantly recognized talent. Malini never copied other actresses or relied on trends. Her subtle, nuanced performances brought to life the idea that “not acting is the best acting.”
Her breakthrough came with Nidhanaya (1972), directed by Dr. Lester James Peries. As ‘Irene,’ Malini delivered a masterclass in portraying complex emotions with delicate restraint. The role demanded a quiet intensity, which she portrayed flawlessly. Even Peries himself once noted her rare ability to transition between commercial cinema and serious art-house films—an achievement that requires not only technique but also sensitivity.
“It may be pointed out that most of her films are commercial and therefore unworthy of serious attention, but these are the very films the masses remember her by… Malini has triumphantly succeeded in the creative process of transitioning from commercial to serious cinema.” — Tribute to Malini: The Living Legend
Malini’s versatility is perhaps her greatest strength. Whether performing in high-art films, commercial musicals, or socially relevant dramas, her commitment and emotional intensity remained constant. No matter the genre, every performance was delivered with the same sincerity. To her, each film was like a beloved child—none more important than the other.
Her international acclaim came in 1977 with Eya Dan Loku Lamayek, directed by Dr. Dharmasena Pathiraja. Her portrayal of Susilawathi earned her a Diploma for Best Asian Actress at the Moscow Film Festival. That same year, her role as Ranmenika in Siripala Saha Ranmenika also garnered critical acclaim, securing a certificate of merit from the 6th International Delhi Film Festival.
Malini’s timeless beauty has enchanted generations. Her round face, radiant smile, expressive eyes, and iconic long hair have etched her into the collective memory of a nation. She wasn’t just admired—she was adored, even worshipped, as the epitome of feminine grace. Many imagined Sri Lankan women should look and act like Malini Fonseka.
What truly sets her apart, however, is not just her appearance, but the authenticity she brings to every role. She doesn’t play her characters—she becomes them. One unforgettable performance was in Bambaru Avith (1978), also by Pathiraja, where her portrayal of Helen—delicate yet strong, broken yet unbowed—continues to stir emotions decades later.
Malini Fonseka’s legacy is not defined by awards or titles alone, but by the indelible mark she has left on the hearts of her audience. At 78, she remains a radiant symbol of Sri Lankan cinema—an artist, a trailblazer, and a queen in every sense of the word.
Happy 78th birthday, Malini. Your story continues to inspire.
In a major drug bust by Weeraketiya Police in the Athuboda area, a stash of heroin worth over Rs. 2 billion was discovered hidden in a lorry. The narcotics—101 kg of heroin packed in 92 parcels—had been expertly concealed in a hidden compartment of the vehicle. Three individuals, including a garage owner, a tinker, and a bakery worker, were arrested during the operation.
Police investigations uncovered photographs on one suspect’s phone showing the method of concealment, which helped identify the lorry used to transport the drugs. Authorities believe the heroin shipment belongs to a notorious Dubai-based drug trafficker, who allegedly guided the suspects through several phone calls during the transport.
The heroin had been hidden inside a house in Athuboda, which also housed a bakery and garage. The suspects, aged 23 and 24, claimed they were contacted by a Weeraketiya resident who told them something would arrive via lorry and asked them to store it safely. Four days later, they were informed of the vehicle’s arrival and instructed to keep the contents secure.
During interrogation, the suspects stated they were unaware that the cargo was narcotics and were reassured by the trafficker over the phone that it was not drugs and there would be no issues even if police were involved. Notably, police said the concealment method was similar to LTTE-era explosive smuggling tactics.
The information was first obtained by an officer attached to a special intelligence unit, leading to the raid carried out in the early hours of May 22. Senior officers from the Police Narcotics Bureau and the Government Analyst’s Department later confirmed the contents as heroin.
Investigations are ongoing to locate the lorry driver and arrest the individual who coordinated the drug concealment at the location. The suspects remain in custody under a detention order while the search continues.
In a move to further ease monetary policy, the Central Bank has decided to lower the Standing Deposit Facility Rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 7.75%.
This decision was made during the Monetary Policy Board meeting held yesterday (21st), after careful consideration of both domestic and global economic trends.
The Central Bank stated that the relaxed monetary policy stance is expected to support reaching the 5% inflation target amidst global uncertainties and prevailing low inflationary pressures.
There is no current risk of a new COVID-19 variant spreading in the country, so there is no need for unnecessary fear, says Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Media.
According to the statement, clinical sampling for COVID-19 (Integrated Respiratory Surveillance) is ongoing in hospitals across the country. These tests have not indicated any increase in COVID cases, and the laboratory surveillance system for early detection of outbreaks is actively functioning, the Ministry confirms.
However, the statement emphasizes the importance of paying special attention to the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic illnesses.
It also stresses the importance of continuing basic hygiene and respiratory practices, such as frequent handwashing and covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
