21 CBF FOCUSES ON MAJOR ECONOMIC GROWTH – SL TOURISM SECTOR RECOGNIZED A KEY POTENTIAL
EDITOR IN CHIEF Harsha Udayakantha Peiris CONSULTANT EDITOR Renuka Bandaranayake
SUB EDITOR Rikaza Hassan CONTRIBUTORS FROM MAIDEN ISSUE Prof. Rohana P. Mahaliyanaarachchi Dept. of Agri Business Management of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka Dr. Iraj Ratnayake Dept. of Tourism Management of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka Dr. Ashoka Dangolla Senior Lecturer of University of Peradeniya Sri Lanka and Veterinary Specialist Anslem de Silva - The President of Amphibia and Reptile Research Organization of Sri Lanka (ARROS) Dr. Ruchira Somaweera – Senior Zoologist, BIOLOGIC Environmental Survey, Australia Vasantha Nugegoda – Zoologist and Animal Habitat Specialist Chamalka Kothalawala – Taxidermist, National Museums, Colombo Sri Lanka Chandima Jayaweera – The Most Outstanding Chauffeur Tourist Guide (Nature & Wildlife) SLTA 2012 Raju Vyas – Gujarat, India Sujitha Miranda – Veteran Journalist Indaka karunadasa – Journalist Teshani Wanninayake - Freelance writer Sri Lanka Tourism National Museums Colombo
PHOTOGRAPHY Aloka I de Silva Chandima Jayaweera Maheesha Mindula Warna Liyanawatte Sanju Samarasinghe Suranga Cooray K. Herath Achintha Dahanayake Shafik Ali Salahudeen
MANAGEMANT
Bharatha Gunathilake Chief Executive Officer Global Media Holdings (pvt) Ltd
12
MARITIME
THE NAVAL MUSEUM AT HOOD’S TOWER
THE NAVAL MUSEUM OF TRINCOMALEE AT HOOD’S TOWER IS LOCATED 268KM FROM COLOMBO. THE MUSEUM LIES WITHIN THE NAVAL DOCKYARD AT TRINCOMALEE WHICH HAS A TOTAL AREA OF APPROXIMATELY 850 ACRES. TODAY, THE NAVAL MUSEUM OF TRINCOMALEE AT HOOD’S TOWER POSSESSES REMNANTS OF SEVERAL ICONIC STRUCTURES THAT DEPICT THE HISTORICAL NAVAL PAST AND NAVAL SECURITY OF THE COUNTRY AS WELL AS A LARGE NUMBER OF EXHIBITS THAT ARE OF RECENT AND PAST IMPORTANCE OF NAVAL HISTORY OF SRI LANKA.
31
AT RUMASSALA THE BUONO VISTA JUNGLE BEACH AWAITS
VISITING THE GLEAMING WHITE JAPANESE PEACE PAGODA IN RUMASSALA IN GALLE, THE DOWN SOUTH OF SRI LANKA THAT PROVIDES A WONDERFUL VIEW OF GALLE FORT, SHOULD OF COURSE BE A MUST IN THE ITINERARY OF ANY GUEST TRAVELLER TO THE HISTORIC CITY OF GALLE. THE PREMISES ALSO GIVES START TO CLIMB DOWN TOWARDS ANOTHER MAGNIFICENT DESTINATION OF A ONE DAY EXCURSION — THE JUNGLE BEACH, A DESERTED SAND PATCH TRAPPED BETWEEN THE OCEAN AND RUMASSALA ROCK.
GEM & JEWELLERY
A JOURNEY TOWARDS BECOMING THE GEM AND JEWELLERY HUB SRI LANKA IS A RELATIVELY SMALL COUNTRY OF APPROXIMATELY 65,000 SQUARE KILOMETERS, WHICH BOASTS OF THE HIGHEST DENSITY OF GEM DEPOSITS IN THE WORLD. IT IS AN ACCEPTED FACT THAT SRI LANKA IS ONE OF THE LARGEST SOURCES OF SOME OF THE FINEST GEMSTONES IN THE WORLD AND IT IS HOME FOR OVER 70 VARIETIES OF GEMSTONES OUT OF THE 200 ODD GEM VARIETIES FOUND SO FAR. SRI LANKA BLUE SAPPHIRE OR CEYLON BLUE SAPPHIRE IS OBVIOUSLY ONE OF THE MOST KNOWN, IMPORTANT AND POPULAR SAPPHIRE VARIETIES IN THE WORLD.
39
OF WIMAL AND HIS PAINTINGS
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33
LIFE AND ART
DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTICS Global Media Holdings (pvt) Ltd
Production and Advertising
SRI LANKA TOURISM PROMOTION BUREAU SUCCESSFULLY HELD ITS BIGGEST INTERNATIONAL TOURISM FORUM CONDUCTED PARALLEL TO THE COMMONWEALTH HEADS OF GOVERNMENT MEETING (CHOGM) IN SRI LANKA. MORE THAN 178 TRAVEL AND TOUR OPERATORS AND 40 JOURNALISTS FROM 13 COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD TOOK PART IN IT. THE EVENT WAS HELD AT BATTARAMULLA.
DESTINATIONS
GRAPHICS
Global Media Holdings (Pvt) Limited 23/5A, Sunethradevi Mawatha, Kohuwala, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
26
CHOGM 2013 INTERNATIONAL TOURISM FORUM -VISITING, INVESTING, LIVING AND WORKING IN SRI LANKA
MARKETING
Opinions expressed in Sri Lanka The Treasure Island are those of writers, and may not necessarily be the view of Global Media Holdings (pvt) Limited or its employees. Readership is advised to seek advice from specialists before acting on information published in the magazine.
THE COMMONWEALTH BUSINESS FORUM (CBF) WAS SRI LANKA’S MOST SIGNIFICANT BUSINESS EVENT IN RECENT YEARS AND WAS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO PUBLICIZE THE MANY ADVANTAGES SRI LANKA HAS OFFERED TO INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS. DELEGATES AND VISITORS TO THE CBF APPRECIATED THAT SRI LANKA HAS OFFERED CONSIDERABLE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN A WIDE RANGE OF TARGETED SECTORS OF WHICH INVESTMENTS ON TOURISM AND LEISURE PLAYS A MAJOR ROLE.
TODAY, AROUND 200 MINERALS HAVE BEEN CLASSIFIED AS GEMSTONES EITHER DUE TO THEIR BEAUTY, DURABILITY, RARITY OR A COMBINATION OF SOME OF THESE ATTRIBUTES WHICH SHOULD BE FULFILLED TO MAKE A MINERAL WORTHY OF BEING CLASSIFIED AS A GEM. THE INTERNATIONAL GEM, MINERAL & JEWELLERY TRADE SHOW TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY 20TH ,21ST 22ND DECEMBER 2013 AT THE BMICH IN COLOMBO.
OPPORTUNITIES
Nilan Wijeratna Head of E- Marketing
PRINTING Commercial Printing & Packaging (pvt) Ltd
GEM VARIETIES OF SRI LANKA & WHAT YOU’D LIKE TO KNOW OF GEMS
BUSINESS
DECEMBER 2013
DEPUTY EDITOR Rathindra Kuruwita
FAVOURITE
18
WE ARE ON OUR WAY TO CLIMB DOWN A GEM MINE AND I AM FEELING A BIT UNEASY; I AM WELL KNOWN FOR BEING CLAUSTROPHOBIC. OUR GUIDE SANJEEWA FERNANDO, A GEM BUSINESSMAN, TAKES US THROUGH NARROW ROADS LEADING OUT OF RATNAPURA CITY UNTIL WE REACH MEDAGAMA, GILEEMALE AND PULL OVER NEAR A SMALL HUT.
THE EXISTENCE OF THE ARTS IN TOURISM IS A MAJOR DEVELOPMENT OF TRANSMITTING AUTHENTICITY OF CONCEPTUAL BEARINGS AND LIFESTYLE OF COMMUNITIES IN FAVORITE TOURIST DESTINATIONS. ALTHOUGH IT IS HARD TO DEFINE THE TERM ‘THE ARTS’ THE FORMS OF THE ARTS SUCH AS PAINTINGS, SCULPTURE AND OTHER VISUAL CONCEPTS WILL EXPRESS MUCH MORE, VARYING FROM MUSIC TO DANCE PERFORMANCES AT THE THEATER AND EVEN FROM ARCHITECTURE TO POETRY.
46
EARTHLY TREASURES
A SHORT JOURNEY DOWN A GEM MINE – BELOW THE EARTH WHERE THE SWEAT AND SEARCH, UNTIL THEY STRIKE GEM
43
NATURE LA FORÊT TROPICALE DE SINHARAJA SINHARAJA FOREST RESERVE IS A NATIONAL HERITAGE SITUATED IN THE SOUTHERN PROVINCE OF SRI LANKA. IT IS ALSO A BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT IN THE ISLAND WITH AN AREA OF 88.64 KM². THE RESERVE HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AS A BIOSPHERE RESERVE AS WELL AS A WORLD HERITAGE BY THE UNESCO. THE FOLLOWING COMPILATION OF THE SINHARAJA FOREST RESERVE AND PICTURES ARE BY CHANDIMA JAYAWEERA AND TRANSLATED IN FRENCH BY THESHANI WANNINAYAKE. FOR GENERAL REFERENCE ALL PICTURES HAVE BEEN CAPTIONED IN ENGLISH
CONTENTS
LOCATED IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL AND EAST AFRICA WITH EASY ACCESS TO BORDERING COUNTRIES OF UGANDA, TANZANIA, BURUNDI AND THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO AS WELL AS TO KENYA, RWANDA IS AN IDEAL LOCATION FOR TRAVEL WITHIN THE REGION.
53
COMFORTS ROCK CHALET, KADUWELA – THE PERFECT GETAWAY FROM THE REST OF THE WORLD
50
MINERALS
SRI LANKA’S MINERAL WEALTH
FROM ANCIENT TIMES SRI LANKANS HAVE KNOWN HOW TO EXTRACT IRON FROM ITS ORE (HEMATITE OR MAGNETITE). THEY ALSO MINED FOR GEMS AND PANNED FOR GOLD IN RIVER BEDS. THEY USED LIMESTONE. WHEN THE BRITISH RULED SRI LANKA, THEY PROSPECTED FOR MINERALS SUCH AS MICA, GRAPHITE, LIMESTONE, DOLOMITE AND QUARTZ.
56
OVERSEAS RWANDA THE EMERGING TOURIST DESTINATION
IT TOOK US LESS THAN 45 MINUTES TO GET TO ROCK CHALET FROM COLOMBO BUT THE IMPRESSION THAT WE GOT WHEN WE ENTERED THE HOTEL, SITUATED IN A 17 ACRE RUBBER ESTATE, IS THAT WE WERE MUCH FARTHER AWAY FROM COLOMBO, AND MUCH CLOSER TO THE HILL COUNTRY. EXCURSION — THE JUNGLE BEACH, A DESERTED SAND PATCH TRAPPED BETWEEN THE OCEAN AND RUMASSALA ROCK.
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FESTIVE GO ODEL FOR THIS CHRISTMAS
66
LEISURE HEMAS – MINOR TO KICKOFF RS 7B RESORT CONSTRUCTION WORK SOON WORK ON RS 5.2B ANANTARA TANGALLE RESORT TO COMMENCE THIS MONTH; RS 1B REFURBISHMENT OF CLUB HOTEL DOLPHIN CONCLUDES HEMAS – MINOR CONSORTIUM IS TO KICK OFF ONE OF SRI LANKA’S LARGEST RESORT CONSTRUCTION DRIVES RUNNING WELL OVER RS 7.3 BILLION WITH WORK ON US$ 40 BILLION (APPROXIMATELY RS 5.2 BILLION) ANANTARA TANGALLE FIVE-STAR LUXURY RESORT SLATED TO COMMENCE MOST LIKELY THIS MONTH UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF HAMBANTOTA DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN MP NAMAL RAJAPAKSA, TREASURE ISLAND LEARNS.
EACH YEAR THOUSANDS OF COLOMBO SHOPPERS LOOK FORWARD TO THE FESTIVE DECORATIONS AND GIFT ITEMS MADE AVAILABLE AT ODEL WHILE OTHERS AWAIT THE NOW FAMED CHRISTMAS MAKEOVER OF THE STORE. AS ALWAYS ODEL LAUNCHED ITS FESTIVE SEASON PROGRAMME RECENTLY WITH A RED, BLACK AND SILVER COLOUR SCHEME..
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HISTORIC A DIFFERENT KIND OF RATNAPURA GEM: SAMAN DEVALAYA JUST LIKE GEMS, SAMAN DEVALAYA, THE SHRINE DEDICATED TO GOD SAMAN, IS SYNONYMOUS WITH RATNAPURA. SURELY YOU MUST HAVE COME ACROSS REFERENCES TO GOD SAMAN THROUGHOUT THIS EDITION OF TREASURE ISLAND; ANY DISCUSSION WITH A RESIDENT OF RATNAPURA, WHETHER ON GEM MINING OR CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, ENDS WITH A REFERENCE TO HIM.
75 News 70
LEISURE “YOU HAVE TO BE LUCKY TO OWN A GEM” MR. A.P. JAYARAJAH, CHAIRMAN, SRI LANKA GEM AND JEWELLERY ASSOCIATION, SHARES HIS VALUABLE INSIGHTS FOR THE BENEFIT OF ‘TREASURE ISLAND’ READERS.
72
MICE CHINA’S LITTLE RED FLOWER BLOSSOMS IN SRI LANKA PERFORMERS OF THE CHINA’S NANJING LITTLE RED FLOWER CHILDREN’S ART TROUPE VISITED SRI LANKA RECENTLY FOR THE FIRST TIME FOR A PERFORMANCE OF INTERNATIONAL STANDARD, AT THE NELUM POKUNA MAHINDA RAJAPAKSA THEATER, ALSO MADE A SPECIAL VISIT TO KANDY, THE CULTURAL CAPITAL. ON THEIR WAY, THEY VISITED PINNAWALA ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE AND ALSO ENJOYED AUTHENTIC SRI LANKAN HOSPITALITY. AT PINNAWALA, THEY WERE AMAZED NOT ONLY BY THE SIGHT OF BATHING ELEPHANTS BUT ALSO OF THE VIVID STYLES OF ORNAMENTS FOR SALE AROUND THE SITE.
PRECIOUS STONES OF SRI LANKA PRECIOUS STONES OF SRI LANKA MAINLY THE GEMS ARE WELL-KNOWN ALL OVER THE WORLD FOR THEIR BEST QUALITY AS PURE GEMS. IN FACT MANY PARTS OF THE ISLAND ARE CONTAINED WITH THESE EARTHLY TREASURES. THIS EDITION OF SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND CARRIES SEVERAL SPECIAL SEGMENTS OF PRECIOUS STONES OF SRI LANKA TO ENHANCE THE KNOWLEDGE, INTEREST AND CREDIBILITY OF SRI LANKA'S PRECIOUS STONES FOR TOURISTS AND TRAVELLERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD. (PIX. NATIONAL GEM AND JEWELLERY AUTHORITY) Pix by; Maheesha Mindula 10 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
MARITIME
THE NAVAL MUSEUM at Hood’s Tower By Harsha Udayakantha Peiris
The remnants of the ancient and historic fortress at the Naval Museum Green Rwanda 12 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
T
he Naval Museum of Trincomalee at Hood’s Tower is located 268km from Colombo. The museum lies within the Naval Dockyard at Trincomalee which has a total area of approximately 850 acres. Originally the place had been a fort, built by King i Parakramabahu who was the last king to unify the three sub kingdoms of the island. Reigning from the capital in Polonnaruwa, the king used ‘Gokanna’ (Trincomalee) as his eastern port, to launch a naval fleet to successfully invade Burma (Myanmar) in the 12th Century. Today, the Naval Museum of Trincomalee at Hood’s Tower possesses remnants of several iconic structures that depict the historical naval past and naval security of the country as well as a large number of exhibits that are of recent and past importance of naval history of Sri Lanka. A GLIMPSE OF HISTORICAL ERA “ During the Time of King i Parakramabahu Sri Lankan merchants went to Myanmar frequently to exchange their products for elephants, probably for the large scale construction
work taking place in the country, after the king united the nation under one banner following decades of internal strife. Ambassadors were exchanged either way, with costly gifts to maintain diplomatic relationships between the kingdoms and movement of religious scholars was a regular feature in the interaction between the two countries. But the King of Ramanna ( part of present day Myanmar) for some reason, suddenly became unfriendly towards Sri Lanka and started harassing envoys, traders and religious scholars who visited his country from Sri Lanka. He deprived Sri Lankan envoys who visited his country of the reciprocal maintenances that that were formally granted and issued orders to his traders to not to sell elephants to ships calling at his ports. He went even further and ordered traders in his country to increase the price of elephants from 1000 silvers to 3000 silvers. The custom of presenting an elephant as a gift to each ship that arrived with a commission from the king of Sri Lanka was done away with. When envoys from King i Parakramabahu took a message writing on a gold leaf to the King of Ramanna, he accused them of taking that message to a king of a kingdom in Siam, perhaps an enemy of his , although the message was for him and imprisoned them in a fortress in the mountains. This particular incident and the long felt harassments to the Sri Lankan envoys to Ramanna Made the Sri Lankan king nervous of the unfriendly attitude of the king of Ramanna and reasoned to launch a punitive expedition to the country of Ramanna. The king also made arrangements to build a large number of ships along the coast for the expedition, and according to ‘Chulawamsa’ the whole coast around Sri Lanka resembled one great shipyard,” a report by Rear Admiral Lakshman TB Illangakoon displayed at the museum says. Thereafter, in various eras the fort had been subjected to many changes with invasive arrivals of Europeans. The three storied building located at the museum is called the Hood’s Tower built on a hill commanding a 360 degree view of the harbor and the bay.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 13
This observation tower was named in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Samuel Hood, an officer of the Royal Navy who became the commander of the British East Indies Station, a formation established in Trincomalee in 1810 to actively protect Britain’s trading interests. A CITY AND A HISTORY Over the centuries the north eastern city of Trincomalee has been steeped in history. Trincomalee is an anglicized version of the Tamil word ‘Tirukonamalai’ (triangle rock/hill) due to a rocky hill situated in the end of a natural land formation that resembles a triangle. Historically, Trincomalee has been referred to as ‘Gokanna’ in Pali language or ‘Gokarna’ in Sanskrit language and has been a sea port that has played a major role in the maritime and international trading history of Sri Lanka. Trincomalee is undoubtedly the most beautiful coastal city of Sri Lanka. It is a priceless natural treasure. This was not the only reason why many foreign powers made desperate attempts to capture, occupy or attack this city over the centuries and attempt to make various claims even to this day. The key reason for such endeavors has been its great strategic naval and economic importance. The Portuguese, the Danes, the Dutch, the French, British and neighboring Indians have all left their footprints on this historical city. Apart from being a target for the imperial Japanese forces during the World War II, it should not be forgotten that event the LTTE terrorists made many attempts to choke and capture the Trincomalee port and make it the capital a divided Sri Lanka. This city was serving as the lifeline of the
military occupying the North and hence desperate attempts were made by the LTTE to capture it. Launching multi prone attacks on both land and sea convoys transporting troops for the humanitarian missions, sinking ships and crafts by surface and subsurface suicidal sea tiger crafts, covert attacks by suicidal underwater saboteurs, placing of sea mines are just few of these attempts. The Dock Yard and the harbor were even subjected to LTTE artillery fire across the Koddiyar bay before the security forces cleared the Sampur area also known as the Trincomalee South and was bombed by the Air Tiger wing for the first time since the Japanese raid on the allied forces during the World War II.
The reconstructed Passenger Jetty of the Trincomalee Naval Harbour with the PRIMA floor Mills at a distance. Reconstructions of this Pepperpot Jetty was done by the Eastern Command Staff of SLN from October 2003 to February 2004 and was declared open by the then Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral DWK Sandagiri VSV, USP, rcds, psc
A FAVOURITE UNSPOILT LEISURE SPOT Apart from its magnificent and tranquil beaches relatively unspoilt and clean which offers some of the best sea bathing in the country, Trincomalee is famous for surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, angling as well as dolphin and whale watching. Here Dolphins become a common sight in May to October. The harbor has many as nine main islands namely, the Great Sober and the small Sober which are declared as sanctuaries. Elephant island, Round island, Norway, Elizabeth, Chapel island Chapel hill, Chapel beach , York island and Powder island make up the rest. It also has romantic spots such as Nicholson’s cove , Deadman’s and Malay Coves and Clappenburg, Dutch bay, China and Cod Bays and numerous other sheltered places of irresistible beauty and depth. (Special thanks - Lieutenant Commander (SBS) WPK Lakmal Weerakkody of SL Navy, Roshantha Jayasundara & Devika Jayasundara)
PMG 2PP MARK VIII (British) 1943 – This gun had been used by the British to protect Trincomalee harbor against enemy ships during the British Colonial period in SL 14 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Guns of different capacities - 20 MM A 41 A oerlikon made in Switzerland acquired by SLN in 1987 and effectively used against LTTE terrorists suicide attack crafts and logistic crafts are also seen here.
One of the Kort Nozzles of the ocean going tug ‘SEA DANCER’ which was destroyed by the LTTE terrorists’ sea mine attack on 04th June 1995.
One of the stairways to the fully underground tunnel bunker complex with thick concrete layers where ammunition was mainly stored for feed the three big guns available here. The step stones of the stairways are clearly visible in darkness due to the use of uranium like material in constrictions. Portholes have been constructed on the surface of the tunnel enabling easy hearing of commands being exchanged during operations.
Until about late 1971, wild elephants from Thambalagamuwa jungles were frequent visitors to the Dock Yard attracted to its vegetation spread over 835 acres. These pictures had been taken when one of these majestic mammals swam across the deep blue harbor mouth which was one of the obstacles in their route falling through French Pass, Great and Small Sober islands and finally, the Elephant Point or Osternburg Point in the Dock Yard.
Even in an underground explosion within the tunnel complex one can safely stay in this special tunnel chamber till rescue
The feeding gear inside the tunnel. The machine was to feed ammunition to the three big guns on the surface
The roof of the Underground complex is made of heavy and thick iron layers like this
Ancient Radio signaling and navigational gears and equipment displayed at the museum
Trincomalee was the major bastion during British period. The three big guns available here have the capacity for firing a 6” diameter metal projectiles. These guns were used for the protection of Trincomalee harbour. As per the location these guns can be aimed at outer harbour, harbour entrance and inner harbour. They can be turned to enemy ships direction by moving left right or up and down as feasible. Ammunitions were stored in 03 underground magazines and provided with specially made hoists to bring up. Lockers had also been used on ground level to store ammunition for a shorter period DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 15
BUSINESS TOURISM
CBF FOCUSES ON
MAJOR ECONOMIC GROWTH SL TOURISM SECTOR RECOGNIZED A KEY POTENTIAL
T
he Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) took place in Colombo, between 12th and 14th November 2013 in conjunction with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The Forum, the premier business event in the Commonwealth brought together Heads of Government, Ministers and top business leaders from around the world. The CBF was jointly organized by the Commonwealth Business Council (CBC) and the Government of Sri Lanka. It formed a part of the overall CHOGM programme. It provided a valuable opportunity for high level dialogue on trade and investment between business and government leaders from the Commonwealth and beyond. The Forum was opened by His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa and was addressed by Commonwealth Heads of Government and their representatives. The Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) was Sri Lanka’s most significant business event in recent years and was a unique opportunity to publicize the many advantages Sri Lanka has offered to international investors. Delegates and visitors to the CBF appreciated that Sri Lanka has offered considerable investment opportunities in a wide range of targeted sectors of which investments on tourism and leisure play a major role. Sri Lanka is a beautiful island located in the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent. It has an area of 65,610 square kilometers, including 2,905 square kilometers of inland waters. The country has divided its territory into 9 provinces and 25 administrative districts. The administrative capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayawardanepura – Kotte where as the commercial capital is Colombo. Sri Lanka’s official languages are Sinhala and Tamil; nevertheless English is the business language and commonly used in the government and private institutions. Sri Lanka has always been a world famous tourist destination. Today, the country offers leisure and business travellers a spectrum of attraction. Sri Lanka has further been praised as a tourist destination by the National Geographic Channel, which ranked Sri Lanka as the 2nd best island to visit and emphasized the fact that the island has ‘absolutely everything in a small space.’ In the year 2012, the Traveler Magazine of the National Geographic Channel named Sri Lanka’s rain forest preserves, known as the Central Highlands, which recently added to UNESCO’s world heritage list, as one of the world’s best places for visit, out of a total of 15 sites. On the most prestigious global travel publication, the largest travel guide book, ‘Lonely Planet’ Sri Lanka has been ranked as the best country to visit in 2013. It has further stated that Sri
Comfort of luxury holidaying and tourism of all sectors
18 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
State of the art mega shopping malls and shopping complexes
Lanka is emerging as one of the planet’s best value destinations.
Heritage city of Kandy
High end indoor sports complexes
Natural beauty of the central hills and along the coastal margins
The country targets to receive an annual arrival of 2.5 million tourists by the year 2016 and 4mn by 2020. According to statistics by the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI), tourist arrival in 2012 has increased by 17.5%up to a highest ever record of 1,005,605 as against the target of 950,000 set for the year. The Tourist Hotel Association of Sri Lanka is with an estimate of about 25,000 additional hotel rooms that will be required within next five years, in addition to the 22,700 rooms available in the formal and informal sectors, to provide facilities for the expected increase of tourist inflow within this period. Priority areas of investment in Sri Lanka in the sector include, construction of hotels, resorts and villas to increase accommodation facilities at affordable rates and also to cater Up-market tourists, construction of water parks, theme parks and amusement parks to set up facilities for recreation and leisure activities with facilities for under water exploration, aquatic adventures and sports in the sea, adventure sports and hot air balloons to create facilities for adventure tourism, agro tourism and eco tourism establishments that include large scale orchards with entertainment facilities, boat riding facilities in major reservoirs and rivers, eco-tourism facilities in Randenigala, Rantambe and Polgolla, Mahaweli System L to Kokilai lagoon and Udawalawa, domestic air travel and sea planes to open up internal airlines and sea plane services, construction of Golf courses and race courses, entertainment studios, cable cars, observation towers, cruise services and constructions for health care tourism.
Horticulture products a booming bio friendly industry in SL
As Sri Lanka’s policy environment is business friendly and compelling, it is equally appreciative to note that the total foreign ownership is permitted across virtually all areas of the economy. There are no restrictions on repatriation of earnings, fees and capital and on foreign exchange transactions relating to current account payments. The safety of foreign investment is guaranteed by the Constitution. Here, a sophisticated legal and regulatory framework exists, covering, for example, intellectual property, settlements of disputes through arbitration, company laws and etc. Up to now bilateral investment agreements with more than 27 countries and double tax relief agreements with 38 countries have been signed. Sri Lanka also has much to offer because of its many natural attributes and competititve advantages. (special thanks to the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka) DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 19
Export processing zones in the island
Fully fledged express highways and telecommunication towers for speedier and safer transportation of passenger and telecommunication
Areal views of Colombo the commercial capital of SL being rapidly developed
Luxury apartment sky risers in Colombo Hospitality non can surpass
20 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
The WTC twin towers in the heart of Colombo
FAVOURITE
G
EM VARIETIES
&
OF SRI LANKA
WHAT YOU’D LIKE TO
GEMS
KNOW OF
(Courtesy – National Gem and Jewellery Authority)
T
oday, around 200 minerals have been classified as gemstones either due to their beauty, durability, rarity or a combination of some of these attributes which should be fulfilled to make a mineral worthy of being classified as a Gem. Out of these gems, around 75 varieties have been mined or found in Sri Lanka. Although exploitation of Sri Lankan gem deposits has been going on for many centuries and it is only in recent times that efforts have been made to make a study of the industry itself, the locations of possible gem deposits and most importantly the types of gemstones found in the island.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 21
Corundum This oxide of aluminum probably produces the most important range of valuable gemstones found in Sri Lanka. As water worn pebbles in alluvial deposits or less frequently in source rocks. The gem quality corundum is highly priced and specific name are given according to the shade of colour such as ruby for deep red and Padmaraga (padparadscha) for reddish orange. Corundum with colours of lesser importance commercial varieties, being prefixed by the colour name. Most corundum from Sri Lanka contain its colours in bands, at times these bands alternating With colourless areas. A wide range of colours, encountered in this mineral group occur in Sri Lankan gem deposits. Chrysoberyl Blue Sapphire
Chrysoberyl is another species of precious minerals which compete, in importance with the corundum family. Chrysoberyl , a beryllium aluminium silicate it contains varying amount of colouring impurities such as chromic oxide and iron oxide, resulting in various colours such as green, yellow, brownish green etc. Alexandrite variety of Chrisoberyl is perhaps the rarest and Sri Lanka is famous for producing large stones with fair colour range. Primary beauty of this gem is due to its colour change. At best Sri Lankan Stones can be grass green in daylight and violet in red to raspberry red in incandescent or artificial light.
Cat's Eye Apple Green
Spinel Blue Spinel, Red Spinel, Mauve Spinel Topaz - White Topaz Beryl - Aquamarine, Colourless Beryl, Green Beryl Zircon - Green, Yellow, Brown, Red & Blue Zircon (Very Rare) Garnet Almandine Garnet, Pyrope Garnet, Rhodolite Garnet, Hessonite Garnet, Spessartite Garnet, Colour Changing Garnet Tourmaline - Green and Brown Varieties Ruby
Quartz - Yellow, Colourless, Brown, Rose, Purple (Amethyst) Feldspar - Moonstone
22 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Cat's Eye Honey and Milk
Rare gemstones Sinhalite, Taaffeite, Kornerupine, Andalusite, Apatite, Scapolite, Fibrolite, Diopside, Iolite or cordierite, Epidote, Vesuvianite or Idocrase, Epidote, Vesuvianite or Idocrase, Danburite, Scheelite Dumortierite, Axinite and Phenakite, Sphene, Ekanite, Sapphirine and Serendibite, Monozite, Rutile Wollastonite and Cassiterite, Peridot, Fluorite, Fluorite, Spodumene, Azurite And Hiddenite The nine varieties of gemstones used in ‘navaratna’ jewellery vary according to the planet. The chart above gives the gemstones generally associated with the planets recognized in Sri Lankan astrology. Some astrologers advocate the nine varieties of gemstone used in a piece of jewellery should be set in a specific order. Usually the pearl is in the centre and other varieties of gemstones are set around it. The Gems associated with planets Planet
Sri Lankan Name
Associated Gem Stones
Sun
Ravi
Padmaradscha
Moon
Sandu
Pearl
Mars
Kuja
Ruby
Mercury
Budha
Emerald/ Green Tourmaline
Jupiter
Guru
Yellow Sapphire
Saturn
Senasuru
Blue Sapphire
A.node
Rahu
Hessonite Garnet (Gomeda)
B. node
Kehetu
Crysoberyl Cat’s Eye
Venus
Sikuru
Diamond/ White Sapphire
Birth Stones (Published in “Gems” by Robert Webster, FGA and according to American National Retail Jewellers Association) Month
Colour
Gem Stone
January
Dark Red
Garnet
February
Purple
Amethyst
March
Pale Blue
Aquamarine
April
White
Diamond
May
Bright Green
Emerald
June
Cream
Pearl or Moonstone
July
Red
Ruby
August
Pale Green
Peridot – Star Sapphire
September
Deep Blue
Blue Sapphire
October
Variegated
Opal or Tourmaline
November
Yellow
Topaz
December
Sky Blue
Turquoise or Lapis Lazuli
International Gem, Mineral & Jewellery Trade Show in December in Colombo The international Gem, Mineral & Jewellery Trade Show will be held on Friday 20th ,21st 22nd December 2013 at the BMICH in Colombo. The trade show is organized by the Gemmologists’ Association of Sri Lanka (SLGA). The Gemmologists’ Association of Sri Lanka or GASL was founded in 1970. It is the professional arm of the gem and jewellery trade as a professional association of qualified Gemmologists. This organization is a nonprofit making entity and the GASL conducts seminars, lectures, refresher courses, examinations and exhibitions for the development of the education and profession of Gemmology. DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 23
Ind-Expo Certification Limited Ind-Expo Certification Limited is a not for profit certification & training organization established by the Ceylon National Chamber of Industries (CNCI) and the National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) of Sri Lanka as it’s partners. It is ably supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) under the project – “Strengthening the International Certification Capacity in Sri Lanka” (Integrated Industrial Development Support Program Phase 11) with the auspices of the Ministry of Industrial Development. Ind-Expo Certification Limited has been incorporated under the Companies Act No. 7 of 2007. We are also the only registered training center for CIEH (Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, United Kingdom) to deliver internationally recognized training programs. Ind-Expo is accredited for HACCP, ISO 22000 and ISO 9001 by the Sri Lanka Accreditation Board which will be affiliated to the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and is internationally recognized. We could ensure value addition to the management systems of our customers through a competent, well trained, experienced and committed team of auditors, technical experts and resource personnel. “Crowns for Food Hygiene Scheme” has been launched by IndExpo Certification Limited as the implementing partner to encourrage the continual improvement of food hygiene standards in the food handling establishments in Sri Lanka. This scheme has been developed based on the international best practices which is being practiced in many countries and has been developed by a team of experts in the relevant field to increase the levels of food hygiene and to the appeal of good performing businesses to both the local population and tourists alike.
we offer........ 1) Third party certification services for the following standards: GMP, HACCP, ISO 22000, ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001, 2) Training on the requirements and internal auditing of GMP, HACCP, ISO 22000, ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 and other related training, 3) CIEH training with international recognition in the disciplines of food safety, environmental management and occupational health and safety: and 4) Inspection services for Food establishments, hotels and restaurants ensuring food safety based on International Best Practices and awarding “Crowns” under the “Crowns for Food Hygiene Scheme”.
GMP- Good Manufacturing Practices Good manufacturing practices, a requirement for manufacturers of food items and other items to ensure good hygienic conditions to assure that the products are of acceptable hygienic conditions and required quality. Benefits 1) Improved food safety, 2) Increased business awareness of food risks, 3) Increase in trust in your business, 4) Reduction in complaints, 5) Costs reduced as chances of recalling the product are minimized.
HACCP – Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) is a systematic preventive approach to food safety and pharmaceutical safety that addresses physical, chemical, and biological hazards as a means of prevention rather than finished product inspection. Benefits 1) Improved food safety, 2) Increased business awareness of food risks, 3) Increases product and raw material traceability 4) Compliance with relevant regulations and hence reduced risk of negative publicity, 5) Reduction in complaints, 6) Costs reduced as chances of recalling the product are minimized.
ISO 22000 – Food Safety Management Systems Food safety management system defines requirements for organizations that need to meet and exceed global food safety regulations. It creates a harmonized food safety standard which is accepted worldwide. It can be used by all organizations in the supply chain, from farming to food services, processing, transportation and storage through packaging and retail. Benefits 1) Efficient and dynamic food safety hazard control, 2) Systematic management of pre-requisite programs, 3) Controls focused on what is really necessary, 4) Costs reduced as chances of recalling the product are minimized.
ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems It demonstrates quality of products/services that meet the customer requirements, statutory and regulatory requirements. Effective application of system enhances customer satisfaction. Benefits 1) Customer satisfaction through delivery of quality products/services that meet customer requirements, 2) Reduced costs through continual improvement of processes 3) Improved stakeholder relationships including staff, customers and suppliers, 4) Compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements hence reduced complaints, 5) Improved risk management through greater consistency and trace ability of products and services
ISO 14001 Environmental Management System It identifies environmental aspects of an organization’s activities and their impacts and implements control measures in order to minimize environmental pollution in order to create a green environment. Benefits 1) Cost savings through waste reduction, 2) Increased profits through potential process improvements and energy conservation, 3) Reducing your environmental liability, 4) Demonstrate legal compliance,
OHSAS 18001 Health and Safety Assurance System It addresses occupational health and safety issues of an organization enabling it to have control over, and knowledge of all occupational health and safety hazards and improve its performance by taking precautionary measures. Benefits 1) Reduce accidents, production time loss and improve efficiency, 2) Reduce insurance premiums, 3) Demonstrate legal compliance, 4) Demonstrate the organization’s commitment to the protection of staff and property, 5) Increase the organization’s reputation for safety and occupational health
Ind-Expo Certification Limited CNCI Chamber Secretariat Apt No 20, 1st Floor Galle Face Court 2 Colombo – 03 Tel: 011 23 36 654/011 24 23 452 Fax: 011 24 23 453 E-mail: info@indexpo.lk Web : www.indexpo.lk
OPPORTUNITIES
CHOGM 2013 International Tourism Forum VISITING, INVESTING, LIVING AND WORKING IN SRI LANKA
26 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
S
ri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau successfully held its biggest international tourism forum conducted parallel to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka. More than 178 travel and tour operators and 40 journalists from 13 countries around the world took part in it. The event was held at Battaramulla.
The visiting travel and tour operators also held One to One meetings with over 200 local leisure sector operators. They also reached into mutually beneficial travel trade agreements to develop tourism industry of Sri Lanka. The travel and tour operator group along with the visiting journalists later went on familiarization tours across the country to witness the island’s tourism attractions and to gain firsthand experience of the country. The newly opened Tourism Information Centre at Sri Lanka Tourism has made it convenient for delegates attending the CHOGM 2013, to acquire sufficient amount of information on investment opportunities and tourism attractions in Sri Lanka. The exhibition stall presented by Sri Lanka Tourism Home Stay programme at the Reflexion of Sri Lanka exhibition paved a better way for successful promotion of home-stay units currently being operated in Sri Lanka.
Welcoming smiles and treats of whole hearted hospitality DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 27
In a special message into Sri Lankan tourism investment, His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, the President of Sri Lanka states that the objective of the next massive leap forward is to transform Sri Lanka into a strategically important economic centre of the world. “My determination therefore, is t transform Sri Lanka to be the Pearl of the Asian Silk Route once again, in modern terms,” His Excellency the President says. “The Tourism Development Strategy 2011 – 2016 addresses the wider issues related to the industry covering the government policy, capacity and manpower buildup requirements, infrastructure development, improving service standards, marketing and promotions, regulations, guidelines, public relations, tourist safety ad improvements to domestic tourism,” says Hon.Basil Rajapaksa, the Minister of Economic Development.
A variety of water sports and leisure activities
Sri Lanka, that spreads over 65,610 square kilometers having a great deal of diversity and variation of the climate with unique natural wonders have always welcome guests from all around the globe with the highest legendary level of hospitality. The country’s growing demands for tourism investments is the direct result of the government’s policy and activities towards attracting 2.5 million tourists in the year 2016 and developing an industry with US $ 2 – 3 billion economic activities, making tourism one of the most attractive sectors for foreign direct and indirect investments. Tourism arrivals of 2012 were above one million and exceeded the target set for the year with a 17.5% growth. The monthly arrivals of tourists in the country for the month of December only in 2012 had reached an apex of more than 120,000 arrivals.
Interestingly encouraged constructions to cater tourism at large
Opportunity for new ventures/ sports and leisure on land, water and air 28 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
With the continuous growth of tourist arrivals, the hotel industry possesses immense potential for new room developments and other tourism related service sectors providing opportunities for investors interested in tourism sector. Therefore, from an investors' perspective, Sri Lanka provides a wider range and choice for establishing tourism ventures. Be it a beach resort, a lodge in the edge of a rain forest or a holiday bungalow on a mountain top, you can easily find your choice in Sri Lanka. Natural resources, human capabilities and state’s development agenda are main building blocks for a high growth tourism industry in Sri Lanka. This is also the first country in South Asia to promote Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Sri Lanka has an investor friendly sociopolitical environment and variations of advanced investor opportunities for those who aspire to invest in Sri Lanka. Tourism investors in Sri Lanka have a wider array of investment opportunities with high return on investment. Beyond the traditional investment in building properties for tourism, nontraditional sectors such as tourism skill development, transportation for tourism and leisure as well as entertainment opportunities are upcoming investment opportunities in Sri Lanka. Operators from Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, UK, India, China, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippine, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia and UAE took part in this international tourism forum along with their Sri Lankan counterparts. Courtesy – Ministry of Economic Development and Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Luring industries a perfect venue
Pictures - Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau
Comforts in the suburbs that link towards more business ventures in tourism industry
Opportunity for new ventures/ sports and leisure on land, water and air DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 29
Welcoming smiles and treats of whole hearted hospitality
perfectly for the mind
Serenity, greenery sun surf image wildlife and tranquility Sri Lanka encouragingly the best known location 30 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Spices to spice
DESTINATIONS
each
e Jungle B
g to th aths leadin p t o fo t s Fore
The Jungle
Beach
morning open from t n ra e many u rv e ta ve res ach ready to s e guest ti c a t u b ll e The sma at the Jungle B g delicacies for th to dusk mouth waterin
A group of
down to ts climbing
touris
Beach the Jungle
AT RUMASSALA
THE BUONO
VISTA
JUNGLE BEACH AWAITS
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 31
Fishing boats during day time at one end
A group of foreign visitors being taken in a boat ride from the Jungle beach to see coral reefs
A distant view of the city of Galle from the Jungle beach
The Peace Pagoda in Rumassala during late evening hours
Guests returning from the Jungle Beach making offerings inside the shrine room of the Peace Pagoda during moon lit hours of the day
V
isiting the gleaming white Japanese Peace Pagoda in Rumassala in Galle, the down south of Sri Lanka that provides a wonderful view of Galle Fort, should of course be a must in the itinerary of any guest traveller to the historic city of Galle. A walk around the pagoda provides magnificent views across Galle bay, with the Galle town and Dutch Fort visible on the far side. It’s easy to spot sailing yachts out on the water or fishing boats heading out to sea or returning to shore with their day’s catch. The premises also gives start to climb down towards another magnificent destination of one day excursion — the Jungle Beach, a deserted sand patch trapped between the ocean and Rumassala Rock. Having just experienced the soul-crushing lameness of Unawatuna, a coastal town in Galle district situated about 5 km southeast to the city center, this beach is exactly what any foreign guest would need - peace, solitude and gorgeous nature. The fact that the Jungle Beach is completely empty might be a minor miracle to some. It’s not exactly a secret — you can clearly see it from the Galle Fort, and everybody in Galle knows exactly where it is. Therefore, getting there is not difficult. It is just a 400 LKR tuk-tuk drive to the pagoda, and then a quick ten-minute downhill hike. This isolated patch of beach makes the best bit of beach any touring guest will find during his or her weeks in Sri Lanka’s south coast. The small but active restaurant open from morning to dusk at the Jungle Beach is always ready to serve many mouth watering delicacies for the guest. It’s worth the effort of searching out. Rumassala the Buono Vista
In the past, Rumassala was known as Buono Vista. The name that dates back to the colonial period. In Spanish it means ‘pleasant view'. The forests and the ocean around Rumassala are rich in biodiversity. The forest makes perfect home to many species of birds, reptiles and mammals including several endemic species, as well as rare medicinal plants. Groups of purple faced leaf monkeys and white-bellied sea eagles are a common sight here. The base of the cliff, beneath the waters of the Indian Ocean rocky reefs and coral harbour a variety of marine biodiversity. What is a peace Pagoda?
A Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist Stupa that has been built as a monument to promote peace. In construction a Peace Pagoda is designed to provide a focal concept for people of all races and creeds in order to help unite them in their search for global peace.
32 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
GEM & JEWELLERY
‘
Rathnadvipa’ or ‘Ratnadeepa’ that means the Island of Gems is an ancient name given to Sri Lanka that can be proud of its diversity of gem heritage. Sri Lanka’s priceless gems have dazzled the kings and rulers of the world from time immemorial. It’s rich soils have been yielding a seemingly never ending supply of high quality precious and semi precious gemstones such as Blue Sapphire, Star Sapphire, Ruby, Star Ruby, Alexandrite, Cat’s Eye, Garnet, Zircon, Tourmaline, Spinel, Topaz etc. Sri Lanka is a relatively small country of approximately 65,000 square kilometers, which boasts of the highest density of gem deposits in the world. It is an accepted fact that Sri Lanka is one of the largest sources of some of the finest gemstones in the world and it is home for over 70 varieties of gemstones out of the 200 odd gem varieties found so far. Sri Lanka Blue Sapphire or Ceylon Blue Sapphire is obviously one of the most known, important and popular sapphire varieties in the world.
A JOURNEY TOWARDS BECOMING GEM AND JEWELLERY
HUB
“Blue Sapphires are the most sorted gemstones from Sri Lanka and then comes Ruby, Pink Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, Padparadscha, Alexandrite, Cat’s eye and other varieties,” says Amitha K.U.Gamage – Chairman/CEO of National Gem & Jewellery Authority (NGJA). National Gem & Jewellery Authority (NGJA) The NGJA was set up under the NGJA Act No.50 of 1993 on the 21st October 1993, replacing the State Gem Corporation (SGC), in order to eliminate time consuming and onerous regulations which have militated against the development of Gem and Jewellery industry (NGJA Act.1993). The NGJA took over all regulatory functions of the SGC but shed the commercial activities with new revolution.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 33
professionals of the authority as an exemplification for environment friendly mining. The most popular method is mining in pits and tunneling. Surface gem mining and dredging in river beds are other methods. Over several centuries, the gem industry has expanded throughout the island creating employment opportunities to several hundred thousand people not only in mining but also in allied fields such as supplying timber, water pumps, washing baskets etc. The development of private properties and personal resources associated with gem mining is clearly evident in popular mining areas such as Ratnapura, Pelmadulla, Kahawatte, Balangoda and Nivitigala.
A Mining Site One other main feature of the NGJA is that jewellery industry too, was taken under the same umbrella for the purpose of promotion and development of the sector. Furthermore, NGJA Act provided for the appointment of private sector representatives to its Board of Directors, a provision not available under SGC Act. This is due to the government’s belief that given the orientation of economic policy towards private sector led economic development, the participation of the private sector in the formulation of government policy and monitoring of the sector will facilitate the development of the Gem and Jewellery industry.
Today, in its journey towards becoming the gem and jewelry hub in the region Sri Lanka employs more than 60,000 people in the whole industry. People involved in this industry probably fall into categories namely;
The main administration of the NGJA is located in Colombo which consists of the secretariat, Finance Administration, and personnel divisions.
The gem mining is controlled and supervised by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) of Sri Lanka. Gems as a resource belong to the government however, license for mining could be obtained for the privately owned lands.
There are six regional offices at Ratnapura, Eheliyagoda, Matale (Naula) , Monaragala, and Matara enforcing the rules and regulations of the NGJA. Such functions in the western province is handled by a unit located at the Head office.
1. Miners 2. Cutters 3. Polishers 4. Dealers 5. Designers 6. Manufacturers 7. Craftsmen 8. Salesmen & marketers Gem Mining
Sri Lanka could be considered as a country which conducts mining activities with direct supervision of the
34 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
The evolution of mining techniques and machinery over the years clearly show that techniques of mining and processing in Sri Lanka though labour intensive, is very efficient as compared with the gem industries in the other developing countries. Under state of the art techniques, Sri Lanka is modernizing its gem mining techniques at present. New education on the industry is being provided at large. The latest higher educational institutions and authorities in Sri Lanka have directed their courses even up to PhD in Gemology. Today, Sri Lanka is also rapidly becoming a competitive diamond manufacturing hub. In fact, Sri Lanka is the single country in the world that makes tapered baguette diamonds. The recovery of fine gems as small as one millimeter or less is assured although the techniques used are traditional. The extraction of gem gravel through digging pits and complicated but well supported tunnels and internal pits is quite safe and efficient and there is very little dilution or loss of gem gravel. The de-watering systems have been improved from the traditional Andia, a king of balancing weight to help lift pales of water in shallow pits to winches in deep pits. During recent time, de- watering is done by mechanical water pumps, the capacity of which varies according to the rate of water flow into the pit. SL as a fast developing gem cutting centre Moreover, Sri Lanka is considered as the fastest developing gem cutting and finishing center in the world, producing stones as small as 1/3 of a millimeter with zero or very low tolerance according to technical drawings supplied by the customers.
Adum Patalaya The gem extracted from the earth gets its beauty and the value only when they are properly cut and polished. Therefore, the lapidary industry is as old as that of gem mining in Sri Lanka. Until early 1970s, cutting and polishing of gems were performed using a traditional machine called ‘Hanaporuwa’. Gem cutting machinery too has improved vastly from ancient ‘Hanaporuwa’ to modern faceting machines with many accessory machinery for calibrating, Sawing and doping being employed.
Adum Patalaya In fact, they would lament the unique, irreplaceable treasures being destroyed by faulty cutting. Not anymore. Amazingly, the lapidaries here have mastered the art of precision cutting in just a few years wiping out centuries old traditional methods. These craftsmen are now top of the line workers and dealers from across the world and are beating a path to their doors to take advantage of these skills.
Sri Lanka has signed along with 41 other countries, the Kimberly process Agreement (KPA). Under KPA, diamond mining, processing and trading countries have agreed to establish legislature to eliminate trade in ‘conflict diamonds.’ The term ‘conflict diamond’ is used for diamonds, sales of which is used to finance weapons and machinery in countries where there are conflicts between the legitimate governments and opposing parties.
Satisfying the modern day requirements of the jewellery industry would never have been feasible with ‘Hanaporuwa’ type machines since only cut and polished stones were allowed to be exported, many new lapidaries were started to cope with the topaz rush. The opportunities available for gem cutting as an employment increased the demand for training facilities and hence many institutions increased their training capabilities as well. Currently, Sri Lankan gem cutting factories are catering to a highly prestigious clientele in the watch and jewellery industry such as Rolex, Mont Blanc, Bvlgari, Cartier, Tiffany & Co. etc. Furthermore, methods of gem cutting and polishing comprise both the traditional method of hand crafting and the electronic methods of state-ofthe-art lapidaries. The diamond cutting and polishing industry is one of the country’s export success stories. Lapidaries from tradition to modernization The Sri Lankan cutters have come a long way from the traditional methods of cutting which were often looked down upon. The international gem dealers for decades had headaches seeing the bottom heavy, ‘ cut purely for weight’ gemstones available here.
The reputation of the Sri Lanka lapidary and the low cost of labour during the last three decades have increased the demand for service cutting for calibrated stones. The value addition per carat in the calibration stone industry is estimated to vary between 25-30% for imported stones and 40100% for local stones. It is estimated that there are around 20,000 cutters in Sri Lanka of which about 5000 are employed in the diamond cutting factories. They process both precious and semi- precious gemstones in free sizes and calibrated sizes .
Jewellery industry The jewellery manufacturing industry at present, employs approximately 15,000 persons of which around 10,000 are registered individual craftsmen while the rest is employed in factories and workshops producing jewellery mainly for the export market. Figures say that around 1,500 unregistered employees are also working under registered craftsmen. About 60% of the jewellery workshops and craftsmen are located mainly in the rural areas of southern and central provinces and in pockets in the
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 35
Gem Mines
Rough Stones
Gem Mines North-Western, Eastern and Northern provinces. About 30% and 10% of jewellery workshops are located in suburban and urban areas respectively. The jewellery manufacturing industry in Sri Lanka mainly consists of three sectors such as manufacturing for exports, local market and the trade of tourism. Sri Lanka’s main markets for jewellery are Japan, Germany, USA, UK, Singapore and Hong Kong. During recent times, silver jewellery studded with semi- particularly moonstones and low quality precious stones have also gained popularity. A large number of traditional jewellery have adapted themselves to producing modern designs particularly for the Germen market. Jewellery design and manufacturing have undergone a lot of changes during the past few decades. The use of computer software packages to create modern designs and casting jewellery for bulk production have come to play a major role in the jewellery industry. Sri Lanka also has a long traditional association with the international jewellery trade. The fame of the island’s jewellers and jewellery designers have spread far and wide for centuries. Traditional jewellery worn by Sri Lankans is handcrafted and intricately designed. The finished pieces display a high degree of ingenuity and creativity. “Gems even when those are cut and polished are generally a raw material to a higher degree. The further value enhancement is possible by setting gems in jewellery and it clearly shows the linkage between the gem and jewellery industry. Further, gems cannot be worn on its own and has to be in some form of jewellery to be worn. The industry’s output is utilized in jewellery industry as gem is purely a raw material,” Gamage says.
Jewellery Making Although Sri Lanka’s share of global trade in precious and semi precious stones is less than 2%, it has set a goal to double the figure to US$ one billion by 2016. The figure considered would be achieved by both gem and jewelry exports. “High returns associated with gem and jewellery industry encourage people to enter into this lucrative industry but one has to gain proficiency in both the subjects namely, gems and jewellery to progress in these two segments, to be successful. The global market for gems is vast and our contribution being a small nation is un-noticeable though we produce some of the world’s finest and valuable gems. At present, actions have been formulated to release more lands for mining to facilitate the development of supply of rough gemstones. Jewellery manufacturing is also being encouraged to increase value addition and jewellery quality upgrading is continuously carried out to enhance value and competitiveness. At the same time new high-end markets are being explored,” he says. Gem Testing Laboratory
36 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
The Gem Testing Laboratory of NGJA which was established in 1972, was entrusted with the task of issuing Gem Testing Reports, thereby gaining confidence and integrity in the international gem trade. Presently, the laboratory is staffed by foreign trained Gemologists who have obtained internationally accepted professional qualifications. The laboratories provide services to the general public, tourists and the exporters and free Gem Testing Service to foreigners. These services are provided at laboratories functioning at the NGJA Colombo Office, Ratnapura Gem Testing Laboratory and Gem Testing Laboratory in the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Exchange located at the World Trade Center in Colombo 01. Assaying and Hallmarking Laboratory Assaying and hallmarking of jewellery and issue of certificates are the primary function of the assay laboratory. The issue of valuation reports on jewellery is done only if requested by the bank and courts of justice. The Assay Office of NGJA is a full member of International Association of Assay Offices (IAAO) and an observer member of the Hallmarking Convention of Vienna. The Assay Office
offers analysis of Jewellery items made of Precious Metals such as Gold, Silver, Platinum group metals and their alloys, establishing confidence on Sri Lankan jewellery and ensuring customer protection among local and foreign buyers by providing a hallmarking facility, establishing standards on jewellery items and ornaments made of precious metal, issuance of valuation certificates on personal jewellery for migrants and consultancy on precious metal alloys and related problems and provision of training facilities.
In search of precious stones
Gems of Sri Lanka received further prestige and won colors from the Royal wedding of Prince William and Princess Kate of the UK in 2011. The Sri Lanka Blue Sapphire contained on their engagement ring that was earlier belonged to Princess Diana became a strong reason to make a boost of demand for Sri Lanka’s gems in the international gem and jewelry market contributed to the country’s reputation as a quality gem stones supplier.
Jewellery made out of gems
“Today, image building in the industry is an area of promotion for which due consideration of NGJA has been focused. NGJA and other associations are engaged in finding new and lucrative markets for gems and jewellery of Sri Lanka. Therefore, product upgrading and promotion is an area of joint collaboration where new technology and knowledge have been made available to expand and upgrade the industry,” Amitha K.U.Gamage – Chairman/CEO of National Gem & Jewellery Authority (NGJA) says. Sri Lanka also has a large family owned retail gem marketing sector island wide. They have helped the country largely to make the presence of Sri Lanka gems abroad via a network of retail shops even outside the country. (Special thanks to Mr. K.L.D.Dayasagara – Deputy Director General of NGJA) (Pictures courtesy of National Gem and Jewellery Authority) World class products such as these wrist watches carry purely Sri Lanka gems DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 37
Jewellery Making
Contact Details: National Gem and Jewellery Authority Colombo office 25, Galle Face Terrace, Colombo 03 Tele-2325364, 2329295, 2320758, 2390645-8 Fax-232078 E-mail-gemautho@sltnet.lk Web site -www.srilankagemautho.com Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Exchange World Trade centre, Level 4&5, East Low Block Echelon square, Colombo 01 “NGJA” Office & Gem Testing Laboratory Tele/Fax- 2391132 Gem Export centre,Geuda Export Centre Air Cargo village, Air port, Katunayake Tele/Fax-2252203 Fax-045-2232109 E-mail -diamondunit@sltnet.lk
Gem centre, Ratnapura Tele -045-2222007/8 E-mail-gmrat@sltnet.lk Regional offices Colombo Regional office 25, Galle face Terrace, Colombo 03 E-mail:ngjacor@sltnet.lk Tel-2390645-8, 2390651 Fax-2320758 Ratnapura Regional office Regional Head Quarters Ratnapura E-mail- ngjanaula@sltnet.lk E-mail- srmratnapura@sltnet.lk Tele-045 2222159 Fax- 045 2223139 Eheliyagoda Regional office Main Street, Eheliyagoda E-mail- ngjaehe@sltnet.lk Tel/Fax 036 2258170
38 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Beruwala office China fort Road 65/A pattakade, Beruwala Tele- 011 3070879 Matara Regional office 391, Anagarika Dharmapala Mw (Galle Road) pamburana, Matara E-mail- ngjamatara@sltnet.lk Tele/Fax- 041 2223330 Na Ula Regional office Dambulla Road, Na Ula Tele/Fax- 066 2246094 Monaragala Regional office 29, Annicut Road, Monaragala E-mail- ngjamonar@sltnet.lk Tele/Fax-055 2276124
LIFE AND ART
Of Wimal and
His Paintings Text & Pics by Harsha Udayakantha Peiris
T
he existence of the arts in tourism is a major development of transmitting authenticity of conceptual bearings and lifestyle of communities in favorite tourist destinations. Although it is hard to define the term ‘the arts’ the forms of the arts such as paintings, sculpture and other visual concepts will express much more, varying from music to dance performances at the theater and even from architecture to poetry. What the public generally calls art has two forms of art, important in the industry of tourism. In the cultural aspect, monuments, placing of statues, art exhibits or murals of authentic expressions have greater impact of developing an innovative sector in this trade. In the commercial aspect and in return, this could turn into a luring industry of artistic expression in exchange for payment. “What ever the theme the paintings are characterized by an inner vitality generated by the rhythmic orientation of the pictorial elements of line and colour. Thinly painted in soft, subdued colours, the compositions reflect the painter’s sensibility, enthusiasm for the rich and complex organization of colour, line and form,” says Prof. Albert Dharmasiri, a renowned lecturer and professor of art and a writer of the literature of art, describing into the deep sense of expressions depicted in the paintings by veteran artist Wimal Dharmarathne. H.K.Wimal Dharmarathne, a Senior Lecturer in Art and Sculpture at the Mahaweli National College of Education at Polgolla had his solo art exhibition titled ‘An Exhibition of Paintings’ at the Lionel Wendt Art Gallery in Colombo with an innovative theme into the combination of abstract expressions with pallet knife and colours. The artist, through his mindful and colourful paintings talks of an industry of art yet to be explored at a time several trades of aesthetic and financial interest such as tourism and travel trade are booming in the post war era of economic development of Sri Lanka. Born at Theldeniya in the central hills in 1951, Wimal Dharmarathne holds a Fine Arts Degree from the Institute of Aesthetic Studies of the University of Kelaniya. He also holds a Diploma in Archeology and a Diploma in Education. He has made an indelible imprint on the contemporary art scene in Sri Lanka by exhibiting his works of art both at home and abroad. In addition to his solo exhibitions in the country, he has represented Sri Lanka at a number of paint exhibitions abroad The sitar DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 39
Colours
The village 40 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Pregnancy
including; Fukuoka Art Exhibition in Japan in 1980and 1985, the Art Exhibition in Bulgaria in 1980, Czechoslovakian Art Exhibition in 1981, the Art Exhibition in Bangladesh in 1983, New Delhi Art Exhibition in India in 1986 and the Expressions of Independence in Paris in France in 2008. “ I received my basic education at Theldeniya Maha Vidyalay. Then got myself trained from 1974 to 1979 to earn the Fine Arts Degree. I first worked as an assistant Teacher of Arts from 1982 to 1987 and thereafter started as a lecturer of Fine Arts at the Mahaweli National College of Education, a government teacher training institute at Polgolla in Kandy. I was brought up in the serene environs of the central hills of this country that offered me my first lessons of artistic discipline. Although I do not intend to solely cater to an extremely intellectual category of the society, I prefer to express myself through a combination of abstract components that generate an inner message to the intellect of the admirer of the paintings.” Says Wimal. Wimal’s works have also been identified in a number of international publications such as “ Expressions of Independence – Sri Lanka” by Mona Bismark Foundation of Paris in France, “Asian Art Bangladesh” Bangladesh Shilpa Kala Academy in Dacca, “Sixth Triennale – India” by the Lalithakala Academy of Rabindra Bhavan in New Delhi and also the “02nd Asian Art Show Publication” by the Fukoka Art Musuem in Japan. Wimal first held his solo art exhibition at the then Hotel Oberoi in 1985. His second exhibition was at the Lionel Wendt in 1988. After the third exhibition at the British Council in 1989, he contributed to a foreign exhibition in 2008. Wimal Dharmarathne is a notable product of the revolution in art education initiated in 1950s by Stanley Abeysinghe, a significant pioneer of the modern art movement in Sri Lanka. The subjects of Dharmarathne’s paintings also ranges from religious themes to incidents from the life around him. Wimal is in the belief that the country’s training centers of art and paintings should also look forward and explore into the possibilities of making professional artists of sense and delight.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 41
“Undoubtedly this is a profession that should be handled with care and responsibility. I am not talking about an industry of totally commercial paintings. What you draw reflects how you see it, how you feel towards it, how you have experienced it and how your inner thoughts address towards it. It is also an expression of your culture that reflects the social harmony and integrity. The teachings of abstract formation of the modern art that differs from the contemporary expressions therefore, should not only be included in the training sessions of the artists or the trainers of artists but it should also be included and taught at school levels enabling our next generation to understand, feel and see life and the lessons of life depicted through the abstract expressions of modern art. A society well trained at its social discipline is the best ground for the artist of paintings to acquire through what he offers in return. I have no doubt that the dawn of this new era of sustainable peace will definitely cater towards the making of a new generation that values humanity in its best capacities in its journey along the future socio-economic development of Sri Lanka. If you train it in the accurate way there is no doubt that ample opportunities will rise from every nook and corner of the world for our modern abstract paintings which will open better avenues for the modern artist to enter into the international market of modern art,” Wimal says.
Lines and Tones Ladies in the dark
The tree 42 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Mothely caress
NATURE
LA FORÊT TROPICALE DE
SINHARAJA
(Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a national heritage situated in the Southern province of Sri Lanka. It is also a biodiversity hotspot in the island with an area of 88.64 km². The reserve has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve as well as a World Heritage by the UNESCO. The Following compilation of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and pictures are by Chandima Jayaweera and translated in French by Theshani Wanninayake. For general reference all pictures have been captioned in English)
L
a forêt tropicale de Sinharaja de la nature la plus fascinante est un trésor, un cadeau composé de plantes, d'animaux, d'oiseaux et d'espèces d'insectes. Son histoire est plus de 150 millions vieux. Les plantes et les animaux d’espèces sont endémiques de Sinharaja à Sri Lanka. Quand considérer l'histoire de géo-scientifique qui était le facteur principal pour le début des plantes et des espèces, il est évident que Sri Lanka avait été eu partie de la péninsule sud de Sri Lanka géo-scientifique paléozoïque époque ou les terres du Gondwana. Devant les 150 ans, cette péninsule a été progressivement s'écarte commencé, et Sri Lanka et l'Inde en étaient séparés, pendant que l'époque du crétacé, il était plaque Deccan Sri Lanka Blue Magpie DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 43
La forêt tropicale de Sinharaja du patrimoine mondial se trouve dans la zone humide des terres basses. Par conséquent, il est désigné comme une forêt tropicale. À l'heure actuelle, est de 11 187 Sinharaja hectares exacte. Il est 21 km de long et 7 km de large, d'est en ouest. Il est situé entre les latitudes 6 ° 21'-6 ° 27 'nord et les longitudes 80 ° 21' - 80 ° 37 'est. Il est situé entre 100-1200 mètres audessus du niveau de la mer. Il reçoit 3000mm-6000mm pluie par an à la haute altitude. Sinharaja est alimenté par la mousson sud-ouest de mai à Juillet et les moussons du nord à l'est de novembre à janvier. Il y a deux légendes tissées autour de Sinharaja. L'un est basé sur l’histoire d'amour entre un lion et des princes qui ont vécu dans un certain état. Il était mentionné que la nation cinghalaise est née des enfants nés à eux. Comme cette zone était sous le lion de gouvernés, il était appelé Sinharaja. L'autre est basé sur lion qui a dominé ce domaine. Il était indiqué que, tous les animaux ont beaucoup souffert en raison des harcèlements de ce lion. Enfin, ils étaient soulagés par un homme puissant et énergique qui a tué le lion par le lapider. Cet endroit est toujours nommé "Yoda Gal Goda» qui signifie «énorme tas de pierres". En 1975, une partie de celui-ci était déclare comme la réserve forestière en vertu de l'homme et la biosphère et plus tard, le Sinharaja complète était déclarée réserve naturelle de la forêt. Il ya deux façons d'entrer Sinharaja, mais le plus simple et la route communément utilisé est l'entrée Kudawa via Ratnapura, zones Kalawana. Les historiques faits première était formulées par le célèbre voyageur arabe, "Ibn Battuta". Il y a mentionné qu'il a voyagé à crête ou Sri Pada d'Adam par un sentier qui se trouve de Galle au Sri Pada via forêt de Sinharaja. Avec le passage du temps, il était durement touché par l'invasion portugaise. Pendant cette période, les personnes qui ont visité à Sri Lanka sont entrés dans le pays par l'habitude de visiter Sri Pada à partir de là. Jusqu'à récemment cette route avait été utilisée par la plupart des voyageurs. Ecologie de Sinharaja Le Sinharaja forêt tropicale est composé de quatre couches. 1. Une. Couche émergente | 2. couche Canopy | 3. Canopée sous 4. Sous étages | 5. Flore terrestres Arbres émergents Ces arbres sont 45-50 mètres de haut et ils sont plus élevés que les arbres de la canopée. Par conséquent, il devient bien la lumière du soleil. Les arbres sont appartenaient à des espèces Dipterocarpus et Shorea. Parmi eux Dipterocarpus zeylanicus, Dipterocarpus hispidus et Shorea sont endémiques au Sri Lanka. Spot wing Thrush
44 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Sri Lanka Green Pigeon
Sri Lanka Red-face Malkoha
Couche Canopy Les arbres sont de 30-45 mètres de haut et leur proximité rend la canopée. Mangifera zeylanica, Mangifera nagassarium, Doona macrophylla sont des arbres endémiques qui peuvent y être vu. Canopée sous Les arbres à hauteur de 15-30 meteres, faites un épais couvert, en évitant la lumière du soleil à tomber sur le sol de la forêt. Chaetocarpus castanocarpus, dactyloides Myristica, urens Caryota sont les flores endémiques qui peuvent y être consultés. Sous étages La faune au rez-de-chaussée sont composés de plantes qui ont besoin moins de soleil. La lumière solaire peut être mesurée en tant que 1%. Il ya Garcinta hermonil, Dironnira scabria et etc parmi les espèces endémiques en elle. Sinharaja est un trésor d'espèces de plantes endémiques. Bien il y a 340 espèces de plantes qui peuvent être utilisés pour prendre le bois et parmi eux 192 espèces sont endémiques. Seules les 15 autres espèces ne peuvent être trouvées dans Sinharaja. Y a t-il 75% - 92% d'espèces endémiques se trouvent dans les zones forestières à Sri Lanka. Il existe différentes variétés de la faune dans la forêt de Sinharaja et il ya plus de 40 espèces de mammifères vivent dans cette forêt. Et 7 d'entre eux sont endémiques pour Sri Lanka. Certains d'entre eux sont Léopard, Pêche chat, cerf Barking, petit écureuil volant, et etc. La population exacte des éléphants à Sinharaja n'est pas connue. Certains poissons d'eau douce menacés trouvé dans Sinharaja sont peigne à queue, cerise barbe, le gobie à queue rousse, etc.
Text and pics by Chandima Jayaweera
French Translation by Theshani Wanninayake
Sinharaja accueillent une variété d'oiseaux. Plus de 147 espèces ont été recensées. L'espèce la plus étonnante est qu'il y a un troupeau d'alimentation et ce troupeau est constitué par le regroupement de plus de 48 espèces d'oiseaux. C'est l'un des meilleurs endroits pour les observateurs d'oiseaux.
Il existe de nombreux amphibiens dans cette forêt tropicale. Sinharaja est un bon endroit pour les amphibiens et les reptiles. Parce que Sinharaja a bon environnement pour tous les types d'animaux. Enfin, je voudrais dire la forêt de Sinharaja Reserve est un parc national et un hotspot de la biodiversité à Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Fogmouth
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 45
EARTHLY TREASURES
A SHORT JOURNEY
DOWN A GEM MINE
BELOW THE EARTH WHERE THEY SWEAT AND SEARCH,
UNTIL THEY STRIKE GEM By Rathindra Kuruwita
W
e are on our way to climb down a gem mine and I am feeling a bit uneasy; I am well known for being claustrophobic. Our guide Sanjeewa Fernando, a gem businessman, takes us through narrow roads leading out of Ratnapura city until we reach Medagama, Gileemale and pull over near a small hut. A middle aged man, Jagath Bandarawatte, the owner of the gem mine, greets us and takes us to the mine through the workers’ quarters. The workers, who get a percentage off the gems found, live in a hut made of wattle but have made the place look homely. A kettle was boiling in the hearth and a young boy was making lunch. A brown and white dog gave us an affable nod and wagged his tail. The mine is a square shaped structure created by pressing wooden sheets, preventing the walls from caving in and making the mine unbearably muddy. There is a foothold and a pole to climb down to the mine and a water pump continuously pumps out the water that continuously seeps into the mine. A separate line pumps oxygen into the mine, which is 45 feet deep. There is also a pulley that brings out the excavated soil that contains precious stones. "This mine is over 5 years old. I started on it only a year ago and the mine goes through the whole plot of land," Bandarawatte says. Sanjeewa explains that the ground we were standing on was held up by wooden planks and sheets and points tos places where the ground seems to have caved in. According to him the same situation prevails in much of Ratnapura as ambitious minors have dug through huge
46 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 47
s
wathes of land.
"It was at 33 feet that we first found gems in this mine. And we have been getting a steady income since - almost everyone here made over a million rupees,"
Before starting on a mine they seek the blessing of the God Saman. Bandarawatte said that he believes that lighting a lamp to the God leads to the discovery of gems. "We often find gems when the Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) season begins." Sri Pada is a sacred mountain believed to be one of the places visited by Lord Buddha. Each year pilgrims commence visiting the site in December and up until May the next year. "It was at 33 feet that we first found gems in this mine. And we have been getting a steady income since - almost everyone here made over a million rupees," Bandarawatte said. Bandarawatte bears the cost for food, diesel, electricity and other utilities. He estimated that he spends around Rs 2500 per day. However the minors work for a percentage of the gems found. "Each minor gets 3% of the price of the gems found. Twenty percent goes to the land owner, 10% to the owner of the license, and 10% for the engine. This is the traditional way of doing things but now new companies are hiring people for a daily wage. People work in gem mines from 9-5 and get paid a certain amount. It’s upto the individual to choose whether they want to take a chance and work for a percentage or work for a small but steady income," he said. Although Bandarawatte's information about the lives of miners is terribly interesting, Sanjeewa is getting impatient. It had been raining rather heavily in the days before our visit and a lot of mines are non operational. Moreover it was already late afternoon and he is a little worried about my safety. "Let's go down and come up," Sanjeewa says and informs me that we have to do the climb in our boxers. "It’s a mine and it has been raining and its muddy," he assures me.
Sanjeewa Fernando
So we take our clothes off, pray for protection from God Saman and climb down the mine. The mine is a square shaped tunnel which is held together by wooden sheets that make sure that the soil does not cave in. Sanjeewa is the first to go down and he makes it look easy. Although the climb down itself is not difficult, with each step down the atmosphere becomes thicker, hotter and the visibility lessens. Due to the recent rains it is muddy and smelly. After what seems like 10-15 minutes Sanjeewa calls out to me, "After a few steps down the mine takes a turn to the left. Mind the gap, or you fall down into a water filled pit." With those reassuring words Sanjeewa disappears. A few more steps down I see the left turn, but before taking it I look up and feel as if I am in a mediaeval dungeon. This section of the mine runs parallel
48 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
and its lighted, which also makes it much hotter. After another 30 metres further we reach the end of the tunnel, where miners dig. "Right now you are about 50 feet down. We only started finding gems at 35 feet. We put what we dig into bags and send them up through a pulley. For you it must be hot but after a while you get used to it," says Piyadasa, a young miner. Surprisingly I wasn't too freaked out and my claustrophobia hadn't kicked in. It was hot and it was smelly but it wasn’t difficult to breathe as oxygen is pumped in. After few minutes observing the miners Sanjeewa and I begin our return to the surface. The journey up seemed easier than the trip down as the air and heat only continued to improve. Bandarawatte instructs me to bathe and points at a natural stream of water that runs by. And we need the shower as it’s universally acknowledged that we stink. Sanjeewa and I wash ourselves vigorously, drink a tea prepared by the miners and I ask Sanjeewa about whether the young generation is still into gem mining. "In some parts people don't want to join. But here there is no such issue. Yes, you are taking a risk, not physically because I don't know of a mine that has caved in at recent times, as there is no daily income. But you can make it big and your life can change in a day. Kids here grow up surrounded by rags to riches stories, so most of them want to live the dream too." Jagath Bandarawatte
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 49
MINERALS
e lcit
a rC olo
nC ree
G
KA L AN A IL R H SR NE LT MI A
WE
By
’S
s an nk act a L xtr r o e Sri z t s r to atite for e ua im ow Q t m r d h se nt (he ine rive Ro cie n an now s ore so m ld in When y rom ve k m it y al r go ne. the s ha n fro The ed fo esto nka, h a e lim La suc mit iro ite). ann et d p used Sri rals dolo n g n d , ma s a hey rule mine tone g m . T h s rrin re e r e u g ds s o i c f m t i i oc ey a e be Br ted ite, l lly . Th efinit a the spec raph r d th tu pro ca, g rtz. na ear h a a t i e i e u m dq w th ar an ls s on ents te a r lica ed ne ance elem la. i i s t M st ic mu b of tribu rms su rgan al for s i p e t d u tz. ino mic gro dely d in uar e e r q h th a c wi con to pa on is t is se ext lds 6 e s f r i a F pa th . It ly n ss o n e lds ls Fe nera anka ce o ardn ss. mi Sri L dan a h rdne s in abun r ha of ha of dspa cale l Fe hs s s Mo tal rys C te ati Ap
F
sa
50 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
da
na aru aK ak
Ind
Green Serpentinite
i Ve
h
ap
Gr
In ite
z
rt ua nQ
There are three major varieties of feldspar:
Crystalline limestone Miocene limestone
Quartz is silica or silicon oxide (SiO2). Pure quartz is colourless.
Orthoclase feldspar Microcline feldspar Plagioclase feldspar
Resent limestone are shell beds which occur along the beach on the southern side, from Hungama to Bundala. And people mine these shell beds limestone and produced lime.
Quartz crystallises as a hexagonal crystal, with a hardness of 7 on Mohs scale of hardness.
Feldspar is a common raw material of ceramic, glass and paints. The major feldspar mines are located in Rattota in
Matale district. The only feldspar gem found in Sri Lanka is the orthoclase moonstone. Sunstone, labradorite and amazonite are other feldspars that are used as gems. Limestone Limestone is a carbonate of calcium (CaCo3). In limestone alumina, silica and magnesia are also present in small percentages. Limestone and its derivatives are used, in the cement industry, agriculture - for dressing the soil (as lime or dolomite power) - glass industry, paper industry, and in the production of paints. In Sri Lanka limestone can be categorized as: Resent limestone (shell beds, freshwater limestone, coral limestone)
Freshwater limestone occurs in Sri Lanka
along some rivers. This is produced by water washing away crystalline or dolomitic limestone and depositing it in another location. The best example of this is the Walawe River. Miocene limestone occurs in the Jaffna peninsula where it is mined for the cement industry. There is also one deposit in Aruakalu in Puttalam which is mined the same. Crystalline limestone the areas of Matale, Balangoda, Badulla They are mine for the industries.
can be found in Polonnaruva, Ella, and Maligawila. glass and ceramic
Quartz A very common rock forming mineral, it is widely distributed and the most abundant mineral in Sri Lanka.
Quartz occurs in veins. Violet coloured quartz is called amethyst and is a gem. Yellow coloured citrine is
also a gem. Quartz sand is used in the manufacture of glass bottles; it is collected from Marawila and Naththandiya. Mica Mica is a complex of hydrosilicates (potassium, magnesium, iron). It has a hardness of 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Mica crystallises following the monoclinic system and can be identified easily by its thin crystal layers. Micas are classified according to their colour. Black - Biotite White - Muscovite Green - Chlorite Brown – Phlogophite
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 51
Hematite Hematite is an oxide of iron (Fe2O3) that ranges from reddish brown to black in colour. It crystallises as a hexagon and has a hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Rose Quartz
Hematite is a very important iron ore mineral from which iron can be extracted. Magnetite Magnetite is also an oxide of iron (Fe3O4). It has magnetic properties and crystallises in the cubic form. Magnetite occurs in Sri Lanka in the Buttala, Passara and Galgamuwa areas. Magnetite is a very important iron ore mineral from which iron can extracted. The highest quality magnetite deposit was found in Wellawaya. However Sandalankawa, Chilaw, Wilagedara and Panirendawa also have magnetite deposits.
Rose Color Calcite located in Eppawala, in the Anuradhapura District. Mineral sands
Calcite deposits can be found in Balangoda, Kaltota, Ella, Matale and Nuwaraeliya.
Uranium, uranite, thorite, monosite, illmanite and rulite are the mineral sands found in Sri Lanka. Uranium and thorium are found in Ratnapura and Pelmadulla while monozite can be found along the southern beaches - especially Beruwala and Pulmoddai. Illmanite and rutile are found in the beaches of Pulmoddai and Nilaweli. An illmanite and garnet sand extraction project was recently established in Magama-Kirinda.
Dolomite
Gems
Dolomite is a carbonate of calcium and magnesium. [Ca.Mg(CO3)2]. White in colour, it crystallises in hexagonal form and has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Dolomite deposits are found in Ella, Wellawaya, Balangoda, Ratnapura, Soranatota and Matale.
Gems are the most valuable mineral resources found in Sri Lanka. A wide variety can be found here.
Calcite Calcite is calcium carbonate (CaCO3) that crystrallises in the hexagonal form. It occurs as white, colourless, green, blue and yellow depending on the type of impurity. Pure calcite is called islandspar.
Graphite Graphite is pure carbon that has crystallised in the hexagonal form and has a hardness of 1–2 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Sri Lankan graphite has been prized around the world since 1675. The major graphite mines are found in Kahatagaha-Kolongaha and Bogala. Gold Formed as a cubic crystal, it has a hardness of 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Rutilated Quartz
Feldspar Moonstone – In situ Moonstone Plagioclase Feldspar Feldspar
Rutilated Quartz Cutand Polished
Tourmilated Quartz
Quartz Amethyst crystal Quartz crystal Rose Quartz Rutilated Quartz Rutilated – cut and polished Vein Quartz Tourmilated Quartz Calcite
Nuggets of gold can be found all over the island. However the best place to prospect is in the rivers in Haldumulla and Koslanda.
Blue coloured Calcite Green coloured Calcite Pink coloured Calcite Rose coloured Calcite White coloured Calcite
Apatite
Graphite
Apatite is used in the manufacture of phosphate fertilizer. The major mine is
Graphite Graphite in Vein Quartz
Vein Quartz
White Color Calcite 52 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
COMFORTS
Rock Chalet kaduwela The Perfect Getaway From The Rest Of The World
I
t took us less than 45 minutes to get to Rock Chalet from Colombo but the impression that we got when we entered the hotel, situated in a 17 acre rubber estate, is that we were much farther away from Colombo, and much closer to the hill country. The magnificently manicured garden that surrounds the hotel, an ancestral home transformed into a boutique hotel, adds to the feeling of being a million miles away from the big city. Workers, who are employees of the Koratota rubber estate that belong to the same company that owns the hotel, tapping away at the trees only add to that feeling.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 53
"The boutique hotel is in total harmony with nature. The atmosphere is cool and calm and the rubber estate is rustically beautiful. If you trek through the estate you can reach a rock which is one of the highest points in Colombo District. You can see the harbour and the mountain ranges of the hill country. It is one of the most popular haunts of our guests. This is an ideal place to relax, forget the rat race and discover hidden natural treasures," Ronald Perera Chief Executive Officer said. He added that the hotel has six rooms, including a secluded chalet popular with honeymooning couples. The standard rooms - Dolomite, Termaleen, Jespa, Momosa and Arora - exude an ambiance of luxury and comfort with a large four-post bed, wooden furniture and tastefully mixed with touches of modern amenities that makes one immediately associate with old world charm and modern luxurious living. Guests can wake up to the sound of birdsong and take a walk in the Koratota estate after their morning cup of tea. The chalet, situated away from the main building and connected by a narrow wooden bridge, has a rich back story. Originally it was the room in which Braise Girdle, an English socialist wanted by the colonial government, hid in during an island-wide manhunt to arrest him. This room has now been refurbished with antique furniture, granite floors and a spacious bathroom. Its own private veranda opens up to the rubber plantation and a stream that runs under it. "The service of the hotel staff rivals the surrounding scenery. I have been working in the hotel trade for 39 years and this is the friendliest staff I have seen. Everyone who works here tries to assist the guests and gives 110%. The guests can dine anytime they want and we provide any type of food they request. Many foreign guests request Sri Lankan food and you know the fancies of honeymooning couples, but there has not been a single occasion on which we could not fulfill their wishes," Trevyn Gerryn, Manager Chef of the hotel said. The dining area is airy and spacious; it overlooks the rubber plantation and since the hotel only admits a limited number of guests, it is always private. In addition, guests can dine close to the beautiful swimming pool. They can also sit on the deck chairs sipping a refreshing fruit juice. "Although we don't have weddings here, the location is renowned for wedding photo shoots," says pointing at a stack of wedding photos. The most popular locations are the hotel garden, a jak tree near a granite rock that has grown intertwined with it, and the lush lawns spread throughout the premises," he added. In addition the hotel provides herbal therapy offering guests the best of Ayurvedic treatment to soothe both mind and body. The spa and steam bath is situated at one end of the hotel's garden, on top of a rock that you climb by taking a flight of steps between lush foliage. After refreshing Ayurvedic therapy guests can relax at a Japanese inspired open air sit out next to the spa. "This is an excellent place for both local and foreign tourists who like calm and relaxation. We get a lot of retired foreign couples who really enjoy our facilities and the environment. We have it all, great hotel, excellent service, natural beauty, cuisine and accessibility," Pereira said.
54 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Ronald Perera Chief Executive Officer
Entrance to the hotel Scenes from the hotel Interior of a standard room Scenes from the hotel
The garden
Inside the chalet
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 55
OVERSEAS
Green Rwanda 56 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Rwanda
the emerging tourist destination By Harsha Udayakantha Peiris
F
or Sri Lanka, the emerging wonder of Asia, the hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) was a landmark event. The booming tourist industry in Sri Lanka has received here, a major opportunity for the local tourism industry to make the world cognizant of its presence and use it as another tool to reach the goal of achieving 2.5 million visitors by the year 2016. The sector is also offering a golden opportunity for the SME sector and large scale tourism stakeholders to participate in many a new venture. It is therefore, noteworthy to correctly and accurately understand the way we should promote and brand our products through the learning and recognitions shared with the other friendly nations around the globe. Such an effort would also cater towards better exchange programmes of travellers and tourists between the countries that will in return present with more bilateral understanding between nations. The Rwandan experience shared at the CHOGM -2013 Business Forum at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo is exemplary in relating a success story of Rwanda becoming one of the leading and most popular tourist destinations in the world, through accurate implementation of the project, product and service.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 57
Located in the heart of Central and East Africa with easy access to bordering countries of Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo as well as to Kenya, Rwanda is an ideal location for travel within the region. Climate although close to the equator, Rwanda shares the same temperature range as Hawaii with pleasant breezes from mountains and lakes. The country is home to one third of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas, one third of Africa’s bird species, several species of primates, volcanoes, game reserves, resorts on lake Kivu, graceful dancers and artistic crafts. All major attractions are located along a circuit within 1 to 5 hour drive from the capital, Kigali. In a short vacation, a tourist can reach volcanoes, mountains, rainforests, savannah, islands and lakes. The unique attractions offered by Rwanda provide a destination with a difference for the growing number of tourists seeking an unspoilt location with a range of natural and cultural wonders. Rwanda already has a well-developed tourism sector that has attracted investment in the hotel industry, travel tourism, airline tourism and conference tourism. The growing conference tourism in Kigali – Rwanda’s Capital is one of the safest and most pleasant cities in Africa. Its numerous luxury hotels, soon to be joined by the Kigali Convention Centre and 5 star hotel will make it a prime destination for business, event and conference tourism. There are 380 accommodation establishments and 6500 accommodation rooms in Rwanda. For the upper range, the average occupancy rate is 70% with foreigners accounting for 97% of bed
Chain of volcanoes 58 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Lake Kivu Rwanda
Gorilla Family
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 59
nights sold. Park visitors have increased by 28% to surpass the 50,000 visitor activities. In the past few years, the sector has attracted interest and investment of reputable brands such as the Marriott, Radisson, Sheraton, Shamwari and Serena Hotels. The tourism receipts in Rwanda are expected to grow at 15% annually until 2017. Also with an ever increasing number of flights to and from the country, Rwanda has now become a hub for major international airlines connecting Rwanda to the Middle East, Europe, Africa and North America. The major airline companies that have contributed to the growth of tourism in Rwanda, include Qatar airlines, SA airline and Turkish airline. Investment opportunities in the tourism sector in Rwanda include Financial partnerships for the Kigali Convention Centre, Tourism and Hospitality training schools, Development of tourist sites and activities around the hot springs in the southern province, creation of theme parks, establishment and promotion of zoological and botanical gardens, development of exhibition centres within Kigali city and other centres in Rwanda, Development of Lake Kivu beach, Establishment of casinos in Kigali and other cities, four five star hotels in Kigali and Rubavu, constructions of a cultural centre and a hotel for tourists visiting the King’s palace in Nyanza, development of boating and water sports on lakes Kivu, Ihema and Muhazi, construction and development of eco lodges in Nyungwe forest and Akagera park as well as construction of a cultural village in Kigali. (Coordinated by Emilienne Benurugo K. Investment Promotion & Marketing Officer of the Investment Promotion & Implementation Department of Rwanda ) 60 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
A Traditional dance in Rwanda
Canopy
FESTIVE
E
ach year thousands of Colombo shoppers look forward to the festive decorations and gift items made available at Odel while others await the now famed christmas makeover of the store. As always Odel launched its festive season programme recently with a Red, Black and Silver colour scheme. In the Odel flagship store at Ward Place a variety of vases, decorative ornaments, cushion covers and lighting were made available to get their customers into the spirit of the festive season.
GO ODEL FOR THIS CHRISTMAS
This year Odel offers a wide variety of Cushion covers with animal prints, floral designs, and patterns using foil, sequins, embroidery and print while their candle stands, candelabras and tea light holders are a combination of festivity and class. Meanwhile the store also has a range of contemporary lighting consisting of lanterns, string lights, pendant lamps and floor lamps in hues of red, white and silver to add a glow of the festive season to your home. Since christmas is just around the corner a wide range of christmas ornaments, platters, wall hangings and floral arrangements are also available. Continuing with the animal motif the vases and ornaments are infused with peacocks, owls and a variety of birds along with seasonal reindeer. Odel also has introduced an exclusive range of silver and wooden based decorative ornaments, mirrors and wall hangings to add the contemporary touch to your living space. Festival season also synonymous with good food, great company and rest and relaxation. Odel adds to the festive ambiance of your dinner table to life with a range of glassware and dinnerware in red, silver and gold along with table linen and napkin rings in festive star, stone and reindeer designs. You also tend to accumulate things, gifts, impulse buys, decorations etc during the holiday season and Odel has a new range of trunks and chests of drawers which can be used either as a fashionable indulgence or a compact storage accessory. DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 61
62 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 63
HISTORIC
A Different Kind Of Ratnapura Gem
J
SAMAN DEVALAYA
ust like gems, Saman Devalaya, the shrine dedicated to God Saman, is synonymous with Ratnapura. Surely you must have come across references to God Saman throughout this edition of Treasure Island; any discussion with a resident of Ratnapura, whether on gem mining or cultural activities, ends with a reference to him. So who is this god and why is he synonymous with Ratnapura? The origins of a legend Sri Lankan folklore alludes to there being four main clans in ancient Sri Lanka: the Devas, the Nagas, the Yakshas and the Rakshas. Present day Ratnapura was the home of the Deva clan. During Lord Buddha's three visits to Sri Lanka, made in the fifth month, the fifth year, and the eighth year after his enlightenment, the Deva clan was led by Sumana who was said to be a popular and strong leader.
The Mahavamsa, a chronicle of history maintained by Buddhist monks, states that one of the visits were made to present day Mahiyanganaya which was a part of the Deva clan's territory. Upon hearing of Lord Buddha's arrival, Sumana was among the first leaders to visit him and embraced Buddhism after listening to one of his sermons. Before Lord Buddha's departure, Sumana requested a few strands of his hairs - to be enshrined - and Lord Buddha is said to have granted Sumana's wish. The strands of hair are enshrined at Miyuguna Seya in Mahiyanganaya. It is also said that Sumana achieved the state of Sovahan.
64 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
He also features prominently in the second visit of Lord Buddha, this time to present day Kelaniya. Sumana, after paying homage to Lord Buddha requested that he stop by Ratnapura during his next visit and to leave a lasting symbol of his arrival so that the residents of Ratnapura may worship it. Heeding Sumana's request, Lord Buddha left an imprint of his foot on Adam's Peak which is now visited by millions of Buddhist pilgrims each year. The history of the Devalaya The history of the shrine dedicated to him is a reflection of times gone by, a story of wonder and conflict. After his death, Sumana became a symbol of the area and as ancestral worship was a part of ancient Sri Lankan culture, Sumana was elevated to the state of a regional god. In statues that depict him, like the one in Shanti Mandapaya at Saman Devalaya, he is shown as a symbol of non violence and serenity, holding a lotus bloom with a demeanor of peace and compassion. To honour him, Deva clansmen built a shrine, which over time became a renowned place of worship. The Mahavamsa states that a minister of the court of the Dambadeniya kingdom named Pathirajadewa offered a statue of Saman made of sandalwood to the shrine. This statue, which still remains, is taken from Galpoththawa Temple in
Pelmadulla to Adams Peak, and brought back, each year, to mark the beginning of the Sri Pada season. In addition, the Mahavamsa refers to a Saparagrama Viharaya, which was situated where Saman Devalaya lies today, and monks from this temple are said to have attended the pinnacle laying ceremony of Ruvanweli Seya during King Dutugemunu's reign. The current avatar of the Devalaya was built during the Era of the Dambadeniya Kingdom (12201354) when Saparagamuwa Viharaya was named Saman Viharaya after a Buddhist Monk named Seelawansa discovered a statue of the god inside a cave near Adam's Peak. Saman Siritha, a poem about God Saman written during the Kotte Period states that this monk was on pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak when he made this discovery following a vision he had. From that point onwards, both kings and commoners arrived and made offerings to the Devalaya, seeking the blessings of God Saman. Consecutive kings constructed and added their own touches to the edifice to show their devotions. The temple was under the control of the Portuguese for 40 years in the 16th Century and was liberated by King Rajasinghe of Sitawaka. Later, the Sacred Tooth Relic was kept hidden in Kurahan stone in the Delgamuwa Temple in Kuruwita, fearing capture by the Portuguese. Before the Tooth Relic
was taken to Kandy, the last Sinhala kingdom, the Dalada Perahera was held from Delgamuwa Temple to Saman Devalaya for 11 consecutive years amidst grave danger. The main building of the shrine was built by King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe after the Portuguese and Dutch destroyed the Devalaya to build their own strongholds. Thus the influence of the architecture and art of the Kandyan Kingdom can be seen throughout the sacred grounds. An icon of Ratnapura We recommend that you take a quick tour of the newly built museum where parts of the old temple and other historical findings are displayed, accompanied by an overview of the countless tales about the temple. This will aid in understanding the history of the Devalaya better. Today, Saman Devalaya is not only popular amongst residents of Ratnapura, although the special bond they share with God Saman is more deep rooted and spiritual than that of visitors from outside, but among all Sri Lankans who arrive at the Devalaya each day seeking blessings. The Devalaya, with its location amidst lofty hills, its atmosphere of tranquility and the weight of its history, is a must visit for anyone who is in Ratnapura for any reason.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 65
LEISURE
Club Hotel Dolphin - Superior Room 66 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Hemas
Minor to kick-off Rs 7B resort construction work soon Work on Rs 5.2B Anantara Tangalle Resort to commence this month; Rs 1B refurbishment of Club Hotel Dolphin concludes DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 67
H
emas – Minor consortium is to kick off one of Sri Lanka’s largest resort construction drives running well over Rs 7.3 billion with work on US$ 40 billion (approximately Rs 5.2 billion) Anantara Tangalle five-star luxury resort slated to commence most likely this month under the patronage of Hambantota District Development Committee Chairman MP Namal Rajapaksa, Treasure Island learns. Hemas Holdings PLC hotel arm – Serendib Leisure Management Ltd together with Minor Hotel Group of Thailand last September announced that it had finalized plans to commence construction immediately with the resort scheduled for opening in February 2015. The proposed 154-roomed project will cater to up - market tourists and will have luxurious hotel rooms and private villas with their own plunge pools. The hotel will also boast of three restaurants and a purpose-built spa. The property will be operated under the Anantara brand, and will epitomize the very best in indigenous Sri Lankan design, and will be complemented with all the luxuries sought-after by the modern-day traveller. In addition to Anantara Tangalle, Hemas Holdings PLC Chief Executive Husein Esufally announced last June that the two more properties located in Southern Sri Lanka— Kalutara and Ambalangoda— will be developed at a cost of US $ 70 million and branded under Avani and Anantara brands of Minor Group. Currently Hemas’ portfolio of hotel properties includes Club Hotel Dolphin, Hotel Sigiriya, Avani Bentota Resort and Spa and Avani Kalutara Resort and has a room strength of 410. Hemas prides in itself as the only Sri Lankan hotel chain to manages an international brand.
Meanwhile Western coast of Sri Lanka came alive on Sunday the 1 December 2013, when the official opening of the refurbished Club Hotel Dolphin took place. The Chief Guest for this occasion was Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa, and he was accompanied by Parliamentarian Dr. Sudarshinie Fernandopulle and Sri Lanka Tourism Chairman Bhashwara Guneratne. The resort has undergone a Rs 550 million refurbishment and is now ready to welcome its Sri Lankan and foreign visitors this forthcoming festive and winter season, as a newer and better up-market property. 68 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
The initial phase of work took place in 2010 with an investment of Rs 530 million where some of the public areas and the villa rooms were refurbished. As a part of the same process, the superior rooms were completely refurbished in this phase. The rooms are looking more elegant, whilst still maintaining the vibe of being a ‘fun’ place to be in, and has all the modern facilities one would expect such as cable TV, tea/ coffee making facilities, mini bar, and an in-room safe. The gardens have been re-landscaped and a brand new kids club was added, which will help establish this hotel as a great family hotel. Parents can now leave their kids with the trained child-minders, whilst having an enjoyable holiday themselves. The banquet hall of the hotel has been elegantly redecorated as well, and is ideal for a wedding, conference or any such function, and can accommodate
As part of its ‘PLAY’ side, Club Hotel Dolphin boasts of the largest pool in Sri Lanka and also has possibly the widest range of activities available in any hotel in Sri Lanka where guests can choose from kayaking on the river, horse riding, archery, beach volleyball, tennis, badminton, squash, animation shows and a discotheque. The hotel also has a 10-member animation team, including kids’ animators. The ‘PAUSE’ side affords visitors the peace and quiet of absolute calm and privacy. The individual villas are very private enclaves. The specialty restaurant with its show kitchen brings you gourmet cuisine while the ‘sala’ spa facilities pamper you. There is also a second swimming pool which is a designated quiet pool. Serendib Leisure Management Ltd Managing Director Ranil de Silva said “Club Hotel Dolphin has long been one of the most popular club hotels in Sri Lanka, with a loyal following from all over the world. With this refurbishment, we have focused on giving our customers an even better guest experience, and we are working hard towards the goal of becoming the best club hotel in Asia.” Serendib Leisure Management Ltd Chairman and Hemas Holdings Director Abbas Esufally said, “This is a significant milestone in the Company’s quest to grow its hospitality business. We are happy that we have delivered again on our promises to our Tour Operators and Customers by reopening the Resort as scheduled. We are also happy that we have delivered again on our promises to our Shareholders by completing the project within budget. We thank them for the confidence placed in us and we shall now deliver upon their expectations.”
up to 250 people in a banquet setting. Club Hotel Dolphin has a dual personality – a vibrant and active ‘PLAY’ side which sharply contrasts with its peaceful and quiet ‘PAUSE’ side. This dual concept best personifies the look and feel of the newly refurbished hotel.
Serendib Leisure owns and manages a number of resorts in several strategic tourist locations within Sri Lanka. Other hotels in the chain are AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa – Bentota, AVANI Kalutara Resort – Kalutara and Hotel Sigiriya – Sigiriya. The holding company of Serendib Leisure, Hemas Holdings PLC is one of Sri Lanka’s top diversified listed conglomerates, with a focus on five key sectors - FMCG, healthcare, transportation, leisure and power generation. Minor Hotel Group (MHG) is a hotel owner, operator and investor, currently with a portfolio of 52 hotels and 42 serviced suites in operation under the Anantara, AVANI, Per AQUUM, Elewana, and Oaks brands across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa. DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 69
GEM FORTUNE
“You have to be lucky to own a
M
gem”
r. A.P. Jayarajah, Chairman, Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association, shared his valuable insights for the benefit of ‘Treasure Island’ readers. What is the current situation of the gem industry in Sri Lanka? It is improving for sure. New mines are being found. The export of sapphires has increased and the country is in the process of becoming a global hub for sapphires. What are the gem stones that the country is most famous for? Sapphires. There’s a high demand for blue sapphires, pink sapphires and also for cats’ eyes. People show a high desire towards rubies too, however the availability of rubies is said to be scarce compared to other gems. What are the prominent areas for finding valuable gems in Sri Lanka? Ratnapura and Elahera are well known for gems. New mines have been found in Seethawaka too. What sort of support has been extended by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Authority? It has extended its fullest cooperation by taking part in overseas exhibitions, carrying out various gem and jewellery related research and discovering new mines. FACETS is a large scale gem and jewellery exhibition held in Sri Lanka annually. It provides a good opportunity for gem enthusiasts to explore, buy, sell and learn about gems. Is there a high demand by tourists for gems? If so, what are the stones that have a high demand?
for certificates. Get them rechecked with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority. The price of a gem varies depending on its weight, size and colour. In your opinion, are there any specific gems that have been considered as ‘lucky’? All gems are considered lucky. To possess a gem, one must be lucky.
Absolutely, there’s a very high demand for gems. Blue sapphires have the highest demand.
What are the ways and means available in the country to increase awareness regarding gems?
What advice can you give to tourists interested in buying gems?
The National Gem and Jewellery Authority provides a set of guidelines. The website has all the details.
Always go to reputed places when buying gems. Never forget to insist 70 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Interview by Kalharie Pitigala
MICE The Little Red Flowers Art troup from China enjoying their visit to Sri Lanka at the Peradeniya Botanical Garden in Kandy
Happy moments at the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
China’s
Little Red Flowers Blossom in Sri Lanka By Harsha Udayakantha Peiris
The Little Red Flowers Art troup from China enjoying their visit to Sri Lanka at the Peradeniya Botanical Garden in Kandy
P
erformers of the China’s Nanjing Little Red Flower Children’s Art Troupe visited Sri Lanka recently for the first time for a performance of international standard, at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theater, They also made a special visit to Kandy, the Cultural Capital. On their way, they visited Pinnawala elephant orphanage and also enjoyed authentic Sri Lankan hospitality. At Pinnawala, they were amazed not only by the sight of bathing elephants but also of the vivid styles of ornaments for sale around the site. Their evening hours in Kandy mainly included a visit at the sacred Temple of the Tooth. On way back to Colombo the following day, they did not forget to spend several happy hours of laughter at the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. China’s Nanjing Little Red Flower Art Troupe is the first children’s performance art troupe in China. In her long history of fifty years, she has developed her unique education tradition, which is characterized by a combination of regular school education, art education and stage performance. The Little Red Flower has performed across the world, in Hongkong, Macao, Taiwan and other countries in Europe, America and Asia. The troupe has presented special performances for many times to visiting foreign leaders and delegations in Nanjing. Two documentary films, which show Flower’s live performance namely, ‘Children Angels’ and ‘Nanjing Little Red Flower’ have
72 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
Happy moments at the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
To seek the choice of hats - Pinnawala
been dubbed into 8 foreign languages and released throughout the world. Little Red Flower has been honoured with the title of Children’s Cultural Ambassador for her significant contribution to the Sino-foreign communication. Her first ever performance in Sri Lanka was organized by Sri Lanka-China Journalists’ Forum in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka. The troupe’s visit to Sri Lanka also became a land mark event of strengthening bilateral relations and exchange of cultures between the two countries especially aiming towards a greater friendship and mutuality between the children of China and Sri Lanka. Flesh of king coconut for the first time
Helping a straw into a king coconut to drink fresh coconut water for the first time on the way to Kandy
Lost in choices - Pinnawala
Lunch at the Flower Song Restaurant - Kandy
The Little Red Flowers Art troup from China enjoying their visit to Sri Lanka at the Peradeniya Botanical Garden in Kandy The First Lady Madam Shiranthi Rajapaksa and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka His Excellency Wu Jianghao with the China Nanjing Little Red Flower Children’s Art Troupe at Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theater in Colombo following the two day performance organized by Sri Lanka – China Journalists’ Forum in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka. Nalin Aponso – the President of SLCJF, the officers of the Embassy of PRC and Ex-co members of SLCJF are also in the picture. DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 73
China Nanjing Little Red Flower Children’s Art Troupe performing at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theater in Colombo during their first visit to Sri Lanka
74 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
NEWS ‘PRABHAWA’ COMMEMORATES
WORLD MOUNTAIN DAY
UPUL’S LATEST PENMANSHIP
ON VETERAN MUSICIAN Upul Guruge who is a rising cinema critic and journalist of cinema and music recently released his latest book to Sri Lankan readers and collectors of biographies, titled ‘Arumesi Sarath Sara’ in which he explore the life and times of Sarath De Alwis,one of Sri Lanka’s veteran musicians. Starting from Sarath De Alwis’s childhood and the difficulties faced by his parents to educate eight children at Carey College in Colombo his efforts to find employment and his advent into the music field. The book also focuses on contributions made by Sath De Alwis to musical groups that he has played for and highlights his input into Sri Lankan cinema in which he wrote music scores for songs in movies. Guruge’s book would also be an asset to those who are interested in movie tourism and those whou would also like to analyze movie music in Sri Lanka.
The author Upul Guruge
Haputale suburb from the top of the Haputale Mountain
A distant view of misty Haputale from the top of the Haputale mountain
T
he ‘Prabhawa’ Mountain Exploration to commemorate the World Mountain Day 2013 is held on the 08th December in Haputale in the Nuwaraeliya District on 08th December 2013. ‘Prabhawa’ is the sole organization in Sri Lanka to hold the World Mountain Day in the country. This year’s commemoration programme also include a number of activities on environmental conservation acknowledgements related to the mountainous stretches of the up country. The Sri Lankan component of the World Mountain Day this year is held with theme of ‘Let’s Protect the Water Sources.’ The United Nations initiated to commemorate the World Mountain Day in the year 2002. In Sri Lanka the programme was initiated in 2010 following a proposal submitted by Asanka Prabhath Rathnayake of the ‘Prabhawa’ mountain explorers team. ‘Prabhawa’ mountain exploration this year will commence at the Haputale Municipal Council on 08th December to reach the top of the Haputale Mountain situated at a height of 1750 feet.
Prabhawa mountain explorers in 2012 DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 75
EXCITING OFFERS FOR PEOPLE’S BANK CREDIT CARD HOLDERS THIS SEASON
I
n keeping with the promise to provide its customers with the most attractive benefits, People’s Bank is offering a range of discounts to its credit card holders this season. “People’s Deals” will offer cardholders up to 25% off at selected hotels, restaurants and shopping outlets island wide.
Cardholders patronizing the Mount Lavinia Hotel, Koggala Beach Hotel, Club Koggala Village, Kassapa Lion’s Rock. Akasa Kade, Raja Bojun, Tilco, Samudra Bookshop, Sadeepa Bookshop and Sponge will be entitled to 25% off on their purchases. CIB Shopping Center, Loon Tao, DSI and Chamathka are also offering a 20% discount to all People’s Bank Credit cardholders. Purchases from Supul Collection, Dulux Paints Outlets and Thilakawardena Textiles will entail a 15% discount, while shopping at Cool Planet, Creations and Shades will give shoppers using their People’s Bank credit card to make payments a 10% discount. Furthermore, new People’s Bank credit cards obtained between the 20th of November and the 20th of December will have their joining fee and the first’s year’s annual fee waived off. People’s Bank credit cardholders are also entitled to further benefits like the lowest joining fee and annual fees, and the lowest interest rates. A People’s Bank credit card can be obtained easily and securely from any of the 730 People’s Bank branches island wide. People’s Bank invites both existing and new card members to enjoy the many benefits on offer for its credit cardholders this season.
NATURE’S SECRET PAMPERS MISS FRANCE BEAUTY QUEENS
N
ature's Secrets gift packs were given to Miss France 2014 contestants recently at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel. Thirty three French beauties visited Sri Lanka prior to their beauty pageant. Nature's Secrets exports to over 20 countries including European nations, and the brand has been registered in more than 50 countries. Vision of Nature's Secrets is to become a global brand that represents Sri Lanka by year 2020. Nature's Secrets is Sri Lanka’s largest and only natural herbal cosmetic producer with an ISO and GMP certified ultra modern production facility.
76 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • DECEMBER 2013
SINGER LIFESTYLE EXHIBITION AN EXPERIENCE OF FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMITY AT BMICH..
F
or the third consecutive year, Singer's hugely popular Lifestyle exhibition will be held on 29th November to the O1st of December. With an impressive portfolio of diverse products from top end electronics to kitchen appliances, furniture, mobile phones and computers and many more, Singer is recognized as one of Sri Lanka's and the world's biggest household names. The Singer Lifestyle exhibition will showcase each and every brand represented under the Singer umbrella and will also give the consumer the opportunity to experience all those brands - over 40 of them with over 1,000 products - under one roof. With exciting offers on selected products at unbelievable discounts of up to 5O%o, the items on sale at this event are bound to be of tremendous interest to shoppers.
DECEMBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 77
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and Sri Lanka caught, tamed years ago, elephants were Welcome To Treasure Isl with Lankan kings over 2000 reservoirs have been built During the reign of the Sri the elephants. ces, temples and vast had a long association with they initiated. Large pala The Sri Lankan people have sive construction works that for the large scale and mas bers num large in used and the aid of elephants. Assistant ed his career as a Research Vasantha Nugegoda start n Ripley from d famous Primatologist Suza under the guidance of worl has served as the ntha Vasa ton. hing Was the Smithsonian Institute ing and develiwela Zoo, for further learn General Curator of the Deh t to London zoo for three wen He ent. agem Man opment on Zoo d which was under the Jersey Channel islan years and was traiend at fowl Trust in ld Durrell and at the Wild Gera t ralis Natu n know the wellr Scott. Piete Sir r unde ge Brid Slim
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