Features
Campaign against Malaria : challenges ahead for Lanka
by Amarasiri de Silva
Between 2020 and 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) granted Malaria-free status to 12 countries, recognising their successful efforts in combating the disease. The nations awarded this prestigious certification include the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Turkmenistan, Armenia, Argentina, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Paraguay, Algeria, China, El Salvador, and Sri Lanka. The WHO officially acknowledges these countries as Malaria-free.
However, it is essential to note that the USA is not entirely Malaria-free, as isolated cases of home-grown Malaria continue to be reported. In south Asia, most countries, except Sri Lanka, are endemic to Malaria. India represents approximately 3% of the global malaria burden, signifying the significant impact of the disease in the country. In Pakistan, around 217 million people face a moderate risk of Malaria, while approximately 63 million are exposed to high risk. Malaria remains endemic in 13 out of 64 districts in Bangladesh, highlighting the ongoing challenges in combating the disease. Approximately 14 million people in Bangladesh are at risk of Malaria. The fight against Malaria remains an ongoing global challenge, with various countries grappling with its impact and implementing measures to control its spread and reduce its burden on communities.
This article focuses on Sri Lanka’s recent achievements in Malaria control, celebrating its success in eliminating Malaria. However, it also sheds light on the challenges ahead for Sri Lanka as it strives to maintain this Malaria-free status.
The southward shifting of kingdoms in Sri Lanka is believed to have been influenced by foreign invasions and epidemics such as Malaria and kidney disease. According to the ancient chronicle, Mahavamsa, which traces the history of Sri Lanka from the 3rd century B.C., the island faced numerous foreign invasions beginning in 300 A.D. These invasions resulted in extensive damage to irrigation systems, leading to disruptions in agriculture. Abandonment of irrigation tanks and cascades, which served as breeding grounds for malaria-carrying mosquitoes, contributed to a devastating “depopulating sickness,” causing significant population declines during that era.
During the Dutch occupation in the 17th century, the southern part of the country experienced another calamity known as the “fever pestilence.” This outbreak profoundly impacted the population, leading to a considerable decrease in numbers. Scholars have postulated that Malaria might have been the disease described in these ancient records, given its prevalence during historical times.
By the 1880s, the local population had given the disease a colloquial name – “Kelae Una,” meaning “forest fever.” This name reflects the understanding that Malaria was often associated with forested areas, which served as ideal habitats for mosquito vectors.
Overall, the historical records shed light on the significant influence of epidemics like Malaria on the shifting fortunes of kingdoms in Sri Lanka. These accounts underscore the critical role that infectious diseases have played in shaping the nation’s history and population dynamics throughout the ages.
The historical accounts offer a glimpse into the significance of Malaria in shaping the island’s history and underscore the importance of understanding the past to inform present-day efforts in malaria control and prevention.
Malaria, a persistent and deadly disease, has plagued humanity for centuries, causing immense suffering and claiming the lives of more than half a million people, annually. While significant progress has been made in the fight against Malaria, the world’s mortality rates for Malaria have remained relatively stagnant since 2015. However, amidst these challenges, a ray of hope emerges as the first-ever Malaria vaccine, RTS, S, begins to be rolled out to children in African countries (RTS, S/AS01 (RTS, S) is a vaccine that acts against Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest Malaria parasite globally and the most prevalent in Africa. RTS, S is the first Malaria vaccine recommended for use to prevent Malaria in children in areas of moderate to high Malaria transmission). It’s important to explore the potential impact of new vaccines and innovative approaches to combat Malaria in Sri Lanka, considering the current Malaria landscape and the potential threats posed by climate change.
Malaria, once a significant public health concern in Sri Lanka, reached a pivotal turning point in 2012, when it was officially declared eliminated. Subsequently, in 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) granted Sri Lanka the much-coveted certification, affirming the nation’s successful fight against the disease. This achievement culminated in meticulous planning, collaborative efforts, and dedicated expertise in Malaria control at both central and local levels.
The journey toward Malaria elimination in Sri Lanka showcased some key epidemiological features. Notably, there has been a steady decline in the incidence of Malaria cases since 1999, marking a crucial milestone in the path to eradication. Additionally, Sri Lanka witnessed the simultaneous elimination of two primary Malaria-causing parasites, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, a feat that underscored the effectiveness of the country’s elimination strategies.
The success in eliminating Malaria was rooted in a well-coordinated approach. Central authorities collaborated with dedicated personnel at all levels at the national centre and on the ground in all districts for several years. This synergy of efforts formed the firm foundation upon which Sri Lanka’s elimination endeavours were built.
The historical backdrop of Malaria in Sri Lanka was riddled with a tragic chapter in the form of a massive epidemic in 1934/35. Over 1.5 million Malaria cases were reported during that devastating outbreak, leading to a staggering death toll of 80,000. However, the country’s health authorities demonstrated resilience and commitment to combat the disease in the following decades.
The significant milestone in the battle against Malaria was reporting the last indigenous case of the disease in October 2012. Remarkably, this milestone was achieved ahead of the established targets, underscoring the effectiveness of Sri Lanka’s elimination efforts. After this achievement, Sri Lanka has maintained an admirable record of zero cases of indigenous Malaria.
Despite eliminating indigenous Malaria, Sri Lanka faced new challenges in the form of imported cases. In 2018, the country reported its first case of Malaria, originating from an external source, six years after achieving elimination status. The rise in imported cases can be attributed to increased foreign labour migration from countries like India and China and an influx of tourists from various parts of the world.
This surge in external mobility introduced a setback to the elimination efforts, creating a higher vulnerability to potential malaria resurgence. Coupled with the prevailing receptivity within the country, the risk of Malaria resurgence escalated, necessitating continued vigilance and proactive measures.
Sri Lanka’s journey toward Malaria elimination is a testament to the power of strategic planning, effective implementation, and tireless dedication. While the country successfully achieved Malaria elimination in 2012 and has sustained a Malaria-free status to date, the rise in imported cases serves as a reminder that ongoing surveillance and preparedness are imperative to safeguard against potential resurgences. By upholding its commitment to Malaria control and continued vigilance, Sri Lanka remains an inspiring model for other nations seeking to combat and eradicate this tenacious disease.
The emergence of new drug-resistant strains and the potential spread of Malaria to new regions due to climate change pose fresh challenges that warrant continued vigilance.
The introduction of RTS, S, the first Malaria vaccine, brings renewed hope to the fight against this relentless disease. Developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in partnership with PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative, the vaccine targets the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, responsible for most Malaria-related deaths. As the vaccine is rolled out to children in Africa, its efficacy and impact will be closely monitored. Should RTS, S successfully reduce Malaria cases, it could serve as a beacon of hope for countries like Sri Lanka, which have already made significant strides but remain vulnerable to resurgence. By learning from the experiences of African countries and building on their successes, Sri Lanka could potentially integrate RTS, S into its existing Malaria control programmes to further bolster protection against the disease.
Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) have long been regarded as the most effective treatment for Malaria. However, recent reports of artemisinin resistance in certain regions cause concern. The spread of resistance compromises the effectiveness of these life-saving drugs, potentially leading to increased Malaria-related fatalities. In light of this threat, researchers are working tirelessly to find alternative treatments and preventive measures. Developing new vaccines targeting the Malaria parasite at various stages of its life cycle offers a promising approach. By attacking the parasite from multiple angles, these vaccines could potentially thwart the development of resistance and ensure sustained protection against Malaria.
Beyond vaccines, researchers are exploring other innovative avenues to combat Malaria. Monoclonal antibodies, which have successfully treated various diseases, are being studied as a potential tool to prevent and treat Malaria infections. These antibodies could provide temporary immunity and act as a complement to existing preventive measures. Moreover, the concept of gene drive technology is being explored as a means to suppress or replace mosquito populations. By modifying mosquito genes to reduce their ability to transmit Malaria, this approach could offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly method of vector control. However, it is essential to consider the ethical and ecological implications of implementing gene drive technology.
The battle against Malaria has been long and challenging, but recent advancements in vaccines and innovative approaches offer hope for a brighter future. As RTS, S begins to be distributed in African countries, its potential benefits may extend to regions like Sri Lanka. By adopting an integrated approach that includes new vaccines, alternative treatments, and cutting-edge innovations, Sri Lanka can strengthen its defenses against Malaria. Nevertheless, it is vital to remain vigilant and adaptive in the face of evolving challenges to ensure that progress in the fight against Malaria remains steadfast. Together, with global cooperation and sustained commitment, we can envision a world where Malaria no longer threatens human life.
In order to achieve successful Malaria elimination in Sri Lanka, the Malaria elimination programme must take into account the intricate interplay of social and cultural factors that influence the disease. Understanding and addressing these factors are crucial for effective control measures. One of the key aspects that demand attention is people’s behaviours and practices related to Malaria prevention. Local communities’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding Malaria transmission and prevention play a significant role in the success of control efforts. Conducting awareness campaigns and educational programmes tailored to the specific needs of different communities can foster positive behavioural changes, such as using preventive measures and seeking timely treatment.
Furthermore, attention to sleeping patterns is imperative in Malaria control. The Anopheles mosquito, responsible for transmitting Malaria, is predominantly active during the nighttime. Therefore, promoting the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and ensuring their widespread distribution can serve as a potent intervention. The exemplary case of the Kataragama-Buttala area in the 1990s, led by Professor Kamini Mendis, stands as a powerful testament to the success of bed net implementation in curbing Malaria transmission rates. This particular initiative highlighted the remarkable effectiveness of such interventions in combatting the spread of the disease.
Additionally, the Malaria elimination programme should engage with local communities to identify and address any unique challenges they may face in adopting preventive measures. Factors such as housing conditions, access to healthcare, and economic constraints can impact the feasibility of implementing control strategies. Tailoring interventions to suit the specific social and economic contexts of different regions can enhance the programme’s effectiveness and sustainability.
In conclusion, achieving Malaria elimination in Sri Lanka requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the social and cultural dynamics of the disease. By understanding and addressing people’s behaviours, promoting preventive practices, and implementing successful interventions, like bed nets, the country can make significant strides towards its goal of a Malaria-free future.
In the event of a resurgence of Malaria, whether we should implement the RTS, S vaccine requires careful contemplation. In 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the broader use of the RTS, S vaccine in the fight against Malaria. Subsequently, the Gavi Board approved funding to facilitate the roll-out of the Malaria vaccine in sub-Saharan Africa. This groundbreaking development marks the first-ever recommendation and support for a Malaria vaccine and represents a remarkable achievement as the world’s first vaccine targeting a parasite.
As discussed in the WHO document on Malaria free Sri Lanka, the new challenge lies in enhancing our astuteness, adaptability, and ability to strategize on the go. We must proactively identify and address potential threats from frequent travel. Our goal is to prevent the re-emergence of Malaria while remaining prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Being proactive and forward-thinking is essential. Who can predict that amidst the lush greenery of an endemic area near human settlements, the Anopheles mosquito may lurk, waiting for an opportunity? All may seem peaceful, but this tranquility can be disrupted when an unsuspecting febrile traveller returns from overseas, relying on only mere paracetamol to combat their illness.
by Dr Gotabhya Ranasinghe
Senior Consultant Cardiologist
National Hospital Sri Lanka
When we sought a meeting with Hon Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Minister of Health, he graciously cleared his busy schedule to accommodate us. Renowned for his attentive listening and deep understanding, Minister Pathirana is dedicated to advancing the health sector. His openness and transparency exemplify the qualities of an exemplary politician and minister.
Dr. Palitha Mahipala, the current Health Secretary, demonstrates both commendable enthusiasm and unwavering support. This combination of attributes makes him a highly compatible colleague for the esteemed Minister of Health.
Our discussion centered on a project that has been in the works for the past 30 years, one that no other minister had managed to advance.
Minister Pathirana, however, recognized the project’s significance and its potential to revolutionize care for heart patients.
The project involves the construction of a state-of-the-art facility at the premises of the National Hospital Colombo. The project’s location within the premises of the National Hospital underscores its importance and relevance to the healthcare infrastructure of the nation.
This facility will include a cardiology building and a tertiary care center, equipped with the latest technology to handle and treat all types of heart-related conditions and surgeries.
Securing funding was a major milestone for this initiative. Minister Pathirana successfully obtained approval for a $40 billion loan from the Asian Development Bank. With the funding in place, the foundation stone is scheduled to be laid in September this year, and construction will begin in January 2025.
This project guarantees a consistent and uninterrupted supply of stents and related medications for heart patients. As a result, patients will have timely access to essential medical supplies during their treatment and recovery. By securing these critical resources, the project aims to enhance patient outcomes, minimize treatment delays, and maintain the highest standards of cardiac care.
Upon its fruition, this monumental building will serve as a beacon of hope and healing, symbolizing the unwavering dedication to improving patient outcomes and fostering a healthier society.We anticipate a future marked by significant progress and positive outcomes in Sri Lanka’s cardiovascular treatment landscape within the foreseeable timeframe.
by Fr. Emmanuel Fernando, OMI
Jesuit Fr. Aloysius Pieris (affectionately called Fr. Aloy) celebrated his 90th birthday on April 9, 2024 and I, as the editor of our Oblate Journal, THE MISSIONARY OBLATE had gone to press by that time. Immediately I decided to publish an article, appreciating the untiring selfless services he continues to offer for inter-Faith dialogue, the renewal of the Catholic Church, his concern for the poor and the suffering Sri Lankan masses and to me, the present writer.
It was in 1988, when I was appointed Director of the Oblate Scholastics at Ampitiya by the then Oblate Provincial Fr. Anselm Silva, that I came to know Fr. Aloy more closely. Knowing well his expertise in matters spiritual, theological, Indological and pastoral, and with the collaborative spirit of my companion-formators, our Oblate Scholastics were sent to Tulana, the Research and Encounter Centre, Kelaniya, of which he is the Founder-Director, for ‘exposure-programmes’ on matters spiritual, biblical, theological and pastoral. Some of these dimensions according to my view and that of my companion-formators, were not available at the National Seminary, Ampitiya.
Ever since that time, our Oblate formators/ accompaniers at the Oblate Scholasticate, Ampitiya , have continued to send our Oblate Scholastics to Tulana Centre for deepening their insights and convictions regarding matters needed to serve the people in today’s context. Fr. Aloy also had tried very enthusiastically with the Oblate team headed by Frs. Oswald Firth and Clement Waidyasekara to begin a Theologate, directed by the Religious Congregations in Sri Lanka, for the contextual formation/ accompaniment of their members. It should very well be a desired goal of the Leaders / Provincials of the Religious Congregations.
Besides being a formator/accompanier at the Oblate Scholasticate, I was entrusted also with the task of editing and publishing our Oblate journal, ‘The Missionary Oblate’. To maintain the quality of the journal I continue to depend on Fr. Aloy for his thought-provoking and stimulating articles on Biblical Spirituality, Biblical Theology and Ecclesiology. I am very grateful to him for his generous assistance. Of late, his writings on renewal of the Church, initiated by Pope St. John XX111 and continued by Pope Francis through the Synodal path, published in our Oblate journal, enable our readers to focus their attention also on the needed renewal in the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka. Fr. Aloy appreciated very much the Synodal path adopted by the Jesuit Pope Francis for the renewal of the Church, rooted very much on prayerful discernment. In my Religious and presbyteral life, Fr.Aloy continues to be my spiritual animator / guide and ongoing formator / acccompanier.
Fr. Aloysius Pieris, BA Hons (Lond), LPh (SHC, India), STL (PFT, Naples), PhD (SLU/VC), ThD (Tilburg), D.Ltt (KU), has been one of the eminent Asian theologians well recognized internationally and one who has lectured and held visiting chairs in many universities both in the West and in the East. Many members of Religious Congregations from Asian countries have benefited from his lectures and guidance in the East Asian Pastoral Institute (EAPI) in Manila, Philippines. He had been a Theologian consulted by the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences for many years. During his professorship at the Gregorian University in Rome, he was called to be a member of a special group of advisers on other religions consulted by Pope Paul VI.
Fr. Aloy is the author of more than 30 books and well over 500 Research Papers. Some of his books and articles have been translated and published in several countries. Among those books, one can find the following: 1) The Genesis of an Asian Theology of Liberation (An Autobiographical Excursus on the Art of Theologising in Asia, 2) An Asian Theology of Liberation, 3) Providential Timeliness of Vatican 11 (a long-overdue halt to a scandalous millennium, 4) Give Vatican 11 a chance, 5) Leadership in the Church, 6) Relishing our faith in working for justice (Themes for study and discussion), 7) A Message meant mainly, not exclusively for Jesuits (Background information necessary for helping Francis renew the Church), 8) Lent in Lanka (Reflections and Resolutions, 9) Love meets wisdom (A Christian Experience of Buddhism, 10) Fire and Water 11) God’s Reign for God’s poor, 12) Our Unhiddden Agenda (How we Jesuits work, pray and form our men). He is also the Editor of two journals, Vagdevi, Journal of Religious Reflection and Dialogue, New Series.
Fr. Aloy has a BA in Pali and Sanskrit from the University of London and a Ph.D in Buddhist Philosophy from the University of Sri Lankan, Vidyodaya Campus. On Nov. 23, 2019, he was awarded the prestigious honorary Doctorate of Literature (D.Litt) by the Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, the Most Venerable Welamitiyawe Dharmakirthi Sri Kusala Dhamma Thera.
Fr. Aloy continues to be a promoter of Gospel values and virtues. Justice as a constitutive dimension of love and social concern for the downtrodden masses are very much noted in his life and work. He had very much appreciated the commitment of the late Fr. Joseph (Joe) Fernando, the National Director of the Social and Economic Centre (SEDEC) for the poor.
In Sri Lanka, a few religious Congregations – the Good Shepherd Sisters, the Christian Brothers, the Marist Brothers and the Oblates – have invited him to animate their members especially during their Provincial Congresses, Chapters and International Conferences. The mainline Christian Churches also have sought his advice and followed his seminars. I, for one, regret very much, that the Sri Lankan authorities of the Catholic Church –today’s Hierarchy—- have not sought Fr.
Aloy’s expertise for the renewal of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka and thus have not benefited from the immense store of wisdom and insight that he can offer to our local Church while the Sri Lankan bishops who governed the Catholic church in the immediate aftermath of the Second Vatican Council (Edmund Fernando OMI, Anthony de Saram, Leo Nanayakkara OSB, Frank Marcus Fernando, Paul Perera,) visited him and consulted him on many matters. Among the Tamil Bishops, Bishop Rayappu Joseph was keeping close contact with him and Bishop J. Deogupillai hosted him and his team visiting him after the horrible Black July massacre of Tamils.
Sri Lanka-Singapore Free Trade Agreement
By Gomi Senadhira
senadhiragomi@gmail.com
“You might tell fairy tales, but the progress of a country cannot be achieved through such narratives. A country cannot be developed by making false promises. The country moved backward because of the electoral promises made by political parties throughout time. We have witnessed that the ultimate result of this is the country becoming bankrupt. Unfortunately, many segments of the population have not come to realize this yet.” – President Ranil Wickremesinghe, 2024 Budget speech
Any Sri Lankan would agree with the above words of President Wickremesinghe on the false promises our politicians and officials make and the fairy tales they narrate which bankrupted this country. So, to understand this, let’s look at one such fairy tale with lots of false promises; Ranil Wickremesinghe’s greatest achievement in the area of international trade and investment promotion during the Yahapalana period, Sri Lanka-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (SLSFTA).
It is appropriate and timely to do it now as Finance Minister Wickremesinghe has just presented to parliament a bill on the National Policy on Economic Transformation which includes the establishment of an Office for International Trade and the Sri Lanka Institute of Economics and International Trade.
Was SLSFTA a “Cleverly negotiated Free Trade Agreement” as stated by the (former) Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickrama during the Parliamentary Debate on the SLSFTA in July 2018, or a colossal blunder covered up with lies, false promises, and fairy tales? After SLSFTA was signed there were a number of fairy tales published on this agreement by the Ministry of Development Strategies and International, Institute of Policy Studies, and others.
However, for this article, I would like to limit my comments to the speech by Minister Samarawickrama during the Parliamentary Debate, and the two most important areas in the agreement which were covered up with lies, fairy tales, and false promises, namely: revenue loss for Sri Lanka and Investment from Singapore. On the other important area, “Waste products dumping” I do not want to comment here as I have written extensively on the issue.
1. The revenue loss
During the Parliamentary Debate in July 2018, Minister Samarawickrama stated “…. let me reiterate that this FTA with Singapore has been very cleverly negotiated by us…. The liberalisation programme under this FTA has been carefully designed to have the least impact on domestic industry and revenue collection. We have included all revenue sensitive items in the negative list of items which will not be subject to removal of tariff. Therefore, 97.8% revenue from Customs duty is protected. Our tariff liberalisation will take place over a period of 12-15 years! In fact, the revenue earned through tariffs on goods imported from Singapore last year was Rs. 35 billion.
The revenue loss for over the next 15 years due to the FTA is only Rs. 733 million– which when annualised, on average, is just Rs. 51 million. That is just 0.14% per year! So anyone who claims the Singapore FTA causes revenue loss to the Government cannot do basic arithmetic! Mr. Speaker, in conclusion, I call on my fellow members of this House – don’t mislead the public with baseless criticism that is not grounded in facts. Don’t look at petty politics and use these issues for your own political survival.”
I was surprised to read the minister’s speech because an article published in January 2018 in “The Straits Times“, based on information released by the Singaporean Negotiators stated, “…. With the FTA, tariff savings for Singapore exports are estimated to hit $10 million annually“.
As the annual tariff savings (that is the revenue loss for Sri Lanka) calculated by the Singaporean Negotiators, Singaporean $ 10 million (Sri Lankan rupees 1,200 million in 2018) was way above the rupees’ 733 million revenue loss for 15 years estimated by the Sri Lankan negotiators, it was clear to any observer that one of the parties to the agreement had not done the basic arithmetic!
Six years later, according to a report published by “The Morning” newspaper, speaking at the Committee on Public Finance (COPF) on 7th May 2024, Mr Samarawickrama’s chief trade negotiator K.J. Weerasinghehad had admitted “…. that forecasted revenue loss for the Government of Sri Lanka through the Singapore FTA is Rs. 450 million in 2023 and Rs. 1.3 billion in 2024.”
If these numbers are correct, as tariff liberalisation under the SLSFTA has just started, we will pass Rs 2 billion very soon. Then, the question is how Sri Lanka’s trade negotiators made such a colossal blunder. Didn’t they do their basic arithmetic? If they didn’t know how to do basic arithmetic they should have at least done their basic readings. For example, the headline of the article published in The Straits Times in January 2018 was “Singapore, Sri Lanka sign FTA, annual savings of $10m expected”.
Anyway, as Sri Lanka’s chief negotiator reiterated at the COPF meeting that “…. since 99% of the tariffs in Singapore have zero rates of duty, Sri Lanka has agreed on 80% tariff liberalisation over a period of 15 years while expecting Singapore investments to address the imbalance in trade,” let’s turn towards investment.
Investment from Singapore
In July 2018, speaking during the Parliamentary Debate on the FTA this is what Minister Malik Samarawickrama stated on investment from Singapore, “Already, thanks to this FTA, in just the past two-and-a-half months since the agreement came into effect we have received a proposal from Singapore for investment amounting to $ 14.8 billion in an oil refinery for export of petroleum products. In addition, we have proposals for a steel manufacturing plant for exports ($ 1 billion investment), flour milling plant ($ 50 million), sugar refinery ($ 200 million). This adds up to more than $ 16.05 billion in the pipeline on these projects alone.
And all of these projects will create thousands of more jobs for our people. In principle approval has already been granted by the BOI and the investors are awaiting the release of land the environmental approvals to commence the project.
I request the Opposition and those with vested interests to change their narrow-minded thinking and join us to develop our country. We must always look at what is best for the whole community, not just the few who may oppose. We owe it to our people to courageously take decisions that will change their lives for the better.”
According to the media report I quoted earlier, speaking at the Committee on Public Finance (COPF) Chief Negotiator Weerasinghe has admitted that Sri Lanka was not happy with overall Singapore investments that have come in the past few years in return for the trade liberalisation under the Singapore-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement. He has added that between 2021 and 2023 the total investment from Singapore had been around $162 million!
What happened to those projects worth $16 billion negotiated, thanks to the SLSFTA, in just the two-and-a-half months after the agreement came into effect and approved by the BOI? I do not know about the steel manufacturing plant for exports ($ 1 billion investment), flour milling plant ($ 50 million) and sugar refinery ($ 200 million).
However, story of the multibillion-dollar investment in the Petroleum Refinery unfolded in a manner that would qualify it as the best fairy tale with false promises presented by our politicians and the officials, prior to 2019 elections.
Though many Sri Lankans got to know, through the media which repeatedly highlighted a plethora of issues surrounding the project and the questionable credentials of the Singaporean investor, the construction work on the Mirrijiwela Oil Refinery along with the cement factory began on the24th of March 2019 with a bang and Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and his ministers along with the foreign and local dignitaries laid the foundation stones.
That was few months before the 2019 Presidential elections. Inaugurating the construction work Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the projects will create thousands of job opportunities in the area and surrounding districts.
The oil refinery, which was to be built over 200 acres of land, with the capacity to refine 200,000 barrels of crude oil per day, was to generate US$7 billion of exports and create 1,500 direct and 3,000 indirect jobs. The construction of the refinery was to be completed in 44 months. Four years later, in August 2023 the Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe to cancel the agreement with the investors of the refinery as the project has not been implemented! Can they explain to the country how much money was wasted to produce that fairy tale?
It is obvious that the President, ministers, and officials had made huge blunders and had deliberately misled the public and the parliament on the revenue loss and potential investment from SLSFTA with fairy tales and false promises.
As the president himself said, a country cannot be developed by making false promises or with fairy tales and these false promises and fairy tales had bankrupted the country. “Unfortunately, many segments of the population have not come to realize this yet”.
(The writer, a specialist and an activist on trade and development issues . )
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