9 July, 2025

Blog

Sri Lanka Deserves Better Representation On Global Stages

By Isham Marikar

The recent appearance of Minister Sunil Handunneththi at the World Economic Forum left me with a mix of pride and deep concern. As a Sri Lankan, I was proud to see our country represented among world leaders and renowned thinkers. But as a citizen and the leader of the Clean Nation Movement, I was also deeply troubled by how unprepared our representation was particularly in terms of communication and engagement.

Minister Handunneththi is undoubtedly a seasoned and respected politician. His role in exposing the Central Bank bond scam is a testament to his courage and dedication. But his performance at the forum raises serious questions not about his political capabilities—but about the decision-making behind sending him to such a critical international event without proper preparation.

The issue here is not simply about speaking English fluently. It is about understanding the importance of delivering Sri Lanka’s message with clarity, confidence, and precision in front of a global audience. If a representative is not comfortable in English, there is absolutely no shame in using Sinhala with professional interpretation. Many countries do so and still maintain their dignity. What hurts us more is seeing our representatives struggle unnecessarily, weakening the message and image of our nation.

As a country, we are rich with talented, energetic individuals including many young professionals in government, politics, and civil society who can engage with confidence and intelligence on international stages. If we want Sri Lanka’s voice to be heard, respected, and taken seriously, we must be strategic in choosing who speaks for us.

The Clean Nation Movement is committed to protecting and uplifting the image of Sri Lanka. It is no longer acceptable to take international representation lightly. These are platforms where countries compete not only in policy but in perception and perception matters immensely.

Moving forward, Sri Lanka must adopt a more thoughtful and professional approach to global representation. We need criteria for selection, language support when needed, and proper briefing and preparation before such events. This is not a personal attack, it is a call for responsibility. We cannot afford to let our global presence be diminished by poor planning.

Sri Lanka deserves better. Our people deserve better. The world deserves to hear our story clearly and proudly.

Latest comments

  • 3
    0

    Fair Enough and it’s a valid poin that he would have talked in Sinhala.

    • 2
      0

      I don’t think it would have made much difference if he had talked in Sinhala.
      The problem here is that the moderator used rather long and catch-word laden questions which would have been incomprehensible even in Sinhala to this “beneficiary of free education ” (as he described it himself). Handunnetti is most comfortable in the miris-kudu atmosphere of our august Parliament. But it is a good thing that this was an insignificant sideshow, not a discussion with, say, S.J. Of course, that’s Subramamniam Jaishankar.

      • 3
        2

        Dear OC,
        .
        “I don’t think it would have made much difference if he had talked in Sinhala.”

        In actuality, though, people favour them over those who speak the truth. The former government was sent home for that reason. Even though “KUNUKARAWALA eating” is more repulsive, people still enjoy it. You mentioned “blue cheese” once, but that isn’t really what it is.
        This implies that elections won’t benefit this country until we create a society that will think things through before casting a ballot.

      • 1
        1

        “Handunnetti is most comfortable in the miris-kudu atmosphere of our august Parliament. “

        Even a down syndrome patient (genetic failure) would exhibit remorseful behaviour following a major blunder.
        However, Handunetti even defends him in the palariament, reiterating that the video was fabricated.

        I believe the JVP mindset is irretrievably established, and nothing can help them. GOVT acts as if nothing occurred. Handunetti’s “shocking act” negatively impacted the country’s image on the international stage.

        Why is it that Minister Handunetti shows no remorse for WEF’s poor performance? All other participants relied on either a “interpreter” or “electronic devices”. Why couldn’t Handunetti and his delegation prepare well?

    • 2
      0

      OC,
      To be clear, former SJB MPs tried their hardest to sue the former Health Minister, not the JVP-led NPP. The general public now believes that the current government is the primary cause of former ministers’ imprisonment.

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-b__0LnteBc

      The proof is these. Every lie propagated by AKD and his ministers today spreads like wildfire among the ignorant populace, while the truth is marginalized like a tsunami. For this reason, it is necessary to reveal who is speaking the truth.

    • 3
      1

      OC,
      .
      When the powerful Handunetti returns, there are rumours that they want to throw a party to celebrate all of the unfortunate things that happened to him while he was in China.

      According to reports, Samanth VIdayaratne will be the next human sacrifice made somewhere in Europe. He has been trained to expose his nose and other body parts to the panellists, demonstrating that these people are not civilized enough to sit with anyone, even if they wear “European suits” against their will.

  • 6
    2

    Well,…..he spoke clearly enough (better than the central bank governor……i can’t understand a word he says). Handunetththi
    looks humble and genuine. Far better than those annoying elocutioned old-schooled windbags that sat articulating and orating and intimidating everybody else, thereby killing all the investments we could have got for so long. Now at least, they will feel sorry for us and be willing to work with us and give us according to our humble needs.

    • 2
      0

      RTF,
      Load of 4-Legged variety Excreta Camouflaged and presented as cohesive, coherent missive, that wasn’t anywhere near a meaningful Presentation!!??
      SH,
      On the other hand, My sincere advice to Sunil Handunetti, is make all your communication in Sinhalese (until you become fluent) – as Sinhalese, is one of two Sri Lanka’s official Languages, which you are very conversant and articulate with – in these instances limited to delivery at such international functions!!?? It’ll be well accepted!? In pursuing, Politics within SL and others overseas, use English and Tamil, which practice may enable you to be fluent over time in all 3 Languages!!?? More frequent usage and future attempts in practising training in delivery within Sri Lankan masses would make you confident make you fare much better over time!!??

      • 3
        1

        Mahila Mahathmaya@
        NPP decieived the masses to gain power. What matters is that, as OC made clear, SH was ignorant of the fundamentals of the subject.

        He was called to speak about the country’s future after DRACULA from the US imposed taxes, not about “my country and myself.”

        WEF is not for politicians who act like teenagers; rather, it is a platform where we can communicate that we Sri Lankans are open to new investments and that we are working to resolve our economic problems.

        The question that now emerges is what the current government’s Handunetti would bring home. He or she should be able to perform the job well; we don’t care if they are modest and sincere.

    • 3
      1

      RTF,
      The entire world opposes Trump, but you boasted about him. Therefore, such a person would not impartially assess Handunetti’s poor performance. What if this man was appointed “Minister of Finance” by the AKD?

      Not once, but multiple times, I have stated unequivocally that nothing except Sri Lankan media can transform even nitwits into specialists comparable to “current libraries,” and they then become the most popular person in a country where a “fake public perception” takes precedence.

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LL8fj0mZoHg

      As of now, even university Professors have agreed with my prognosis about general knowledge and the level of their shortcomings in “JVP ministers and their basic knowledge, sometimes about fundamentals.” SJB and UNP are mute today, possibly because they believe expressing the truth to the nation would be a pointless attempt.

      People elected them, and now Handunetti and other low-lifes have demonstrated this to the entire world through the WEF.

    • 3
      1

      RTF,
      “Handunetththi
      looks humble and genuine.” tell us please what do you, Ramona eat ?

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HP3K1wb3el4

      To win over the hearts and minds of people around the world and attract more investments, a minister is sent to such a global forum. Do you still believe that sending Handunetti was a wise choice if the individual’s basic understanding of economics is significantly less than that of an adolescent? Who didn’t verify his fundamental skills before sending him to the forum? oF COURSE: Harini and AKD are unaware that the former speaker had no “earned doctorate”; they are merely arguing for the sake of argumentation, and they haven’t even mentioned Ranwala’s PhD. Ultimately, is this the strong option that Sri Lanka has long been waiting for?

    • 3
      0

      ramona therese fernando

      Being humble & genuine may appeal to the voter but in the corporate world or in the world stage, a rational & convincing argument is necessary to get the message across. That is called professionalism which comes with education & experience, as well as, preparation. Speaking in the mother tongue is accepted in any international forum but the JVP politicians lack the finesse & the substance to make an impressive presentation. Lets face it, the JVP/NPP are on a steep learning curve with no clear strategy, apart from following RW’s, which they opposed at the beginning. I didn’t listen to the full speech (link provided by OC) but, in my opinion, Hadunetti didn’t respond to the question how current geo political situation is affecting SL. A senior Minister should be able to respond directly to the question without mumbling & bungling. He is representing SL & it says a lot about the integrity of the government.

    • 3
      0

      Hello Ramona,
      For Platforms such as the World Economic Forum you need a Representative that is Articulate, Knowledgeable and who’s speech flows smoothly.
      Whilst he spoke reasonable English there was a distinct hesitancy and an impression that he was reading from a Script that he did not fully understand.
      My Brother in Law from Negombo speaks better English than Ranil, has the Affability of Barack Obama and a sound Business Knowledge.
      How would you compare Sunil Handunneththi’s speech to the likes of Marwan Barghouti and Husam Zomlot, who are not Native speakers of English? Once upon a time the British Media would have spokespeople from the Palestinians in Interviews that had a poor command of English and therefore easily dismissed; not any more.
      In the meantime see what you think of this Article https://www.hltmag.co.uk/aug18/english-language-education-in-sri-lanka
      Best regards

      • 4
        0

        It’s like,…….all those other countries were talking “he-haw, he-haw,” BEFORe they became rich. They only started speaking with posh accents after they got a good footing. We went the opposite way with articulations and are still poor.

      • 3
        1

        Hi LC: Did you see how Ranil W fumbled when that young journalist from Al Jazeera questioned him about the Batalanda “Massacre”?

        These do happen at world forums, and nothing to get excited about, unless one needs to discredit a person even at the drop of a pin.

        • 1
          2

          Hi LS – Listen to the following link.

          https://youtu.be/R6UuTBQIZyE?si=xk6SgsFsXx73oURY

          Listen to the long-drawn question and the answer by a “Third World” country Minister. Are we to judge his standard of English with your mother tongue?

          • 3
            1

            Douglas,
            If you listen carefully, (1:10) Handunnetti calls Japan an “emerging country “. This is utter ignorance unworthy of a participant at an economic forum. It is not essential to speak perfect English, (translation is available), but it is inexcusable to assume that one’s knowledge is sufficient to take part in such a meeting.

            • 2
              2

              OC, …Nooo, he means that Asia is emerging with Japan a part of it.

              • 3
                1

                Rtf,
                “OC, …Nooo, he means that Asia is emerging with Japan a part of it.”
                .
                Really ?

                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz5PpXfR4MY

                Please evaluate how others appropriately answered the questions.

                I believe RTF needs to switch her feed as soon as possible.

                Btw, Are you still perched on your tiny head? When are you and Trump getting married? Still holding the “I love Trump” stance? Oh my god, are there any mental health facilities nearby? Yours is becoming more and more incurable every day. This among our “Srilanken-Americans” is regrettable:

              • 2
                1

                Regarding the politics, Handunetti and AKD ought to be transparent. Maybe Burkino Fasso and their young leader could teach these men.
                .
                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yHc5ed5n4E

                May our Deepthi, RTF, and all others who carry the torch for idiots in this country be blessed with intelligence.

              • 2
                1

                Ramona,
                Are you saying that what he says is different to what he means?

                • 3
                  2

                  Lelamg, OC,…….Alas, our people like to sit mocking the accent of our struggling masses, making them feel very ashamed and unworthy. Listen to him a 2nd time, and you would see he spoke very eloquently about Sri Lanka’s position within the greater Asian region………..…..(ok, he shouldn’t have said, “like-that, like-that”).

                  • 1
                    0

                    Ramona,
                    I am not talking about his accent, which is as good as Modi’s. The problem is that he couldn’t understand the question, plus he was sorely lacking in basic general knowledge about the region. Just compare him to the other participants:
                    Indonesia:
                    https://youtu.be/_bhzT6RWuTc?si=TPKdjY5jfMuDOh-a
                    Singapore, Philippines, Thailand:
                    https://www.youtube.com/live/xb115ZnXlRw?si=ZPhiw-YooaNZv-El
                    Now, Ramona, please don’t tell me that Handunnetti is in the same class.
                    What do you think happened to the country’s reputation?

                    • 0
                      1

                      OC,…..he was asked about the US tarrifs placed upon our country. He spoke about the emergence of the Asian region, and Sri Lanka’s potential and binding together with the rest of Asia for strength. What he said was implied towards those US tariffs, thus giving a more holistic and more encouraging viewpoint.

            • 2
              1

              Additionally, the NPP promoter from Unawatuna dared to ask the German embassy in Sri Lanka if AKD Deyyo’s visit was indeed official.
              I’m still waiting to hear if Dr. Steinmeier got back to him on this..
              .
              . Politicians and supporters of the NPP are using these tricks on and on.
              What more discussions? The blame was placed on “then govt” after our youth were brutally murdered in 89..
              . The dominance of beasts disguised as humans is evident in this scene.

          • 2
            0

            Hello Douglas,
            I watched the Link previously and commented on it in reply to Ramona. I watched again to see if what I said was reasonable. While I still maintain that his English was fine, I did notice that he said a few things that I disagreed with. One of them was on the problems facing Sri Lanka in the past few decades. He said that Drugs and Human Trafficking were problems associated with the Tourist Industry. He obviously missed out the Easter Bombings, Bankruptcy and Corruption of previous Governments. He could also have said something about the way that Tourists are dealt with at Colombo Airport and what they are doing to sort it out.
            Best regards

            • 0
              1

              LankaScot,…..he was asked about the US tarrifs placed upon our country and region. He spoke about the emergence of the Asian region, and of the great potential of our Sri Lankan people who could contribute towards this emergence. He spoke about the need of the region to bind together. What he said was implied towards those US tariffs, and thus he gave a holistic and more encouraging viewpoint.

              He didn’t sit airing greviences against the previous governments or put the blame-game on covid (of what everybody else also went through), and did not harp on the Easter bombing as an excuse for a temporary halt in tourism. Yes, he also spoke about drugs and human trafficking in Sri Lanka because it is a detrimental towards our people and a huge economic drainer. It is also a huge problem around the region. He did not need to demean the country on its internal issues in tourism that we are currently fixing, as it would have shown as off negatively. What he did was speak very diplomatically, showing off about the potential of our people, our geopolitical advantage, and the beauty of our country. With all the positivity he highlighted, he then encouraged investments into our country.

  • 3
    1

    How would the current president respond to the public if he increased fuel prices? Today, his calculations from back then are silent. Then, why in the world did he purposefully mislead the same people?

    Why did he purposefully deceive the country? Alas, wake up ! I think majority of our people are real “punnakku drinkers”.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sp9MxJJfoN0

  • 3
    1

    I believe that Sunil Handunetti, Nalinda Danahisa, and all other prominent ministers need to be taught the fundamentals.

    Even though SH stated this in SINHALA, OC is absolutely right; despite his biased media portraying them as “experts” in economics, his knowledge is far below average.
    These men worked for a fascist and mlechcha organization called “JVP” and wasted valuable time without ever trying to increase their knowledge. Today, the nation can plainly see the consequences.
    We can now relate this to Dr. Harsha De Silva’s pre-election challenge regarding a PUBLIC discussion of the JVPs’ economic proposals and progress, should they end up ruling this nation.

  • 3
    1

    OC,
    Perhaps Prof Dewasiri of the University of Colombo is correct in saying that he understood that the JVP or the party masquerading as the NPP would lack the maturity to govern a country; instead, they should gain a great deal more knowledge before taking power. He nevertheless backed it because he found the previous leaders incomprehensible. Putting aside party politics, perhaps so-called university experts with Sinahal ancestry should be able to recognize this country’s diversity. No matter what party you belong to, we should collaborate with good politicians to advance the common good of the country, as former President RW demonstrated by his actions. However, the phony public image that JVP created rejected his.

    In retrospect, the JVPrs squandered tax dollars on their free education, from elementary school to college, but they ultimately became worthless because their philosophy prevented them from advancing their language proficiency and subject-matter expertise.
    But they misled the people with their sharp, exaggerated statements, even surpassing those of Gotabaya and his Viyathamal. Many now think VIYATHMAGA was smarter than AKD’s so-called intellectuals.

  • 2
    3

    o we must ask: Does English matter more—or does the message matter more?

    Clearly, it is the message that matters most.
    Previous governments spoke fluent English—so fluent, in fact, that they used it to impress foreign nations and borrow money. Yet in the end, their polished English could not save the country from economic collapse.

    Fluent English does not equal good leadership.
    What we need today is not perfect grammar, but honesty, vision, and decisive action.

    The world must learn to listen to what is being said, not reject a voice simply because it doesn’t sound “perfect” in English.

    • 3
      1

      RBH
      Humans make mistakes. However, when others did them, JVPrs did not put up with it. They rank higher on the scale than anyone else, but it is unbearable to act like the lowest person today. Not the language, but Sunil Handunetti’s worldly knowledge ought to be questioned.

      Is the economy of Japan an emerging one ?

      Is it possible to compare Indonesia’s development to that of Japan?
      Remembering how JVPrs made fun of other people, sometimes not because they made mistakes in international forums, but rather because of parliamentary discussions or similar interactions. But many believed that AKD-led governance would be the answer to a brighter future. Considering the way they act, how are they unable to participate in a forum in a professional manner, let alone perform miracles?

    • 2
      0

      RBH
      ”….honesty, vision, and decisive action…” Is the NPP/JVP capable of all that?

      The speaker (third highest ranking member of the govt.) was not honest about his qualifications which maybe a minor faux par for some but it does not give the impression of an honest govt. As for the vision, apart from the meaningless catch phrases, can you elaborate on the vision of the NPP & the action plan in achieving it? Lets leave the decisiveness till the moment arrives.

      By the way, the country was bankrupted by a yob not fluent in English but it was an English speaking leader (although not a great public speaker) who saved the day from a catastrophe while the same NPP/JVP backed out & opposed every move. Now they are following the same strategy. At least, lets give the ‘devil’ his due recognition instead of overrating the NPP with their non existent ‘vision’.

      • 2
        1

        Raj,
        “At least, lets give the ‘devil’ his due recognition instead of overrating the NPP with their non existent ‘vision’.”.
        .
        What if they don’t respect ” facts”?🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣.,
        .
        Their supporters and promoters such as Pundit Douglas or the like, apply ” Sunil Watawala niyaya” [ ignoring the questions also in TV discussions ].
        Alas, Gota s administration was better 😪
        Why is man stream media silent today?

  • 1
    1

    The Indian Prime Minister does sometimes speak English when at the White House, and while it is functional, it is not highly fluent.

    The Indian Prime Minister does sometimes speak English when at the White House, and while it is functional, it is not highly fluent.

    The Indian Prime Minister does sometimes speak English when at the White House, and while it is functional, it is not white house standed.

    • 3
      1

      RBH,
      The problem with Handunnetti was lack of comprehension. The Chinese moderator was very fluent in English, and her long-winded questions outclassed Handunnetti. His answers were “malle pol”.
      Modi does have a thick accent, but in general he’s pretty sharp.

      • 3
        2

        OC,
        .
        She has returned from her vacation. Hopefully, she will act appropriately this time. She might not be getting what she wants from her successful business. I’ve given her enough clients.

        • 2
          1

          LM,
          You figure Lester will come back from his forced vacation?

          • 2
            3

            OC,
            Deepthi = Lester They have been permanently cornered by nutlessness. Deepthi’s remarks only serve as insults. Their agreement is to balance CT or similar forums in the Medamulana people’s favour.

          • 2
            2

            They have interdependently employed deception and deception as survival strategies.

            The NPP’s popularity is currently declining like a glass wall

            . Dr. Amarasooriya might be considering suicide because she can’t see where she’s fallen in today.

            I would have repeated “good riddence to bad rubbish” if my grandmothers had been present.
            The new dawn “startlink” accesses being granted to Sri Lankans will make the youth happy.

            Next few months will tell who actually takes action and who just keeps chatting and playing around.

  • 4
    2

    Even if they are unable to move forward with WEF and Columbo, they are champions at carrying out UNDERWORLD-style activities. Watch the video below, please.
    (t=1215s) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMCJBBVIB0Q

  • 3
    1

    Not knowing a language is no problem as long as we can hire electronic or simulartan interpreters. However, we are a sinking nation with a president whose knowledge is significantly below average. He shares the same thoughts as Lindalanga samangaya (the lower class of society who engage in hate speech).

    All they have sown is now reaping. Meaning, HANDUNETTI and other low-class individuals attacked the former leaders in ways that no civilized society would ever tolerate. However, today, they are incapable of resolving even minor issues, let alone performing miracles.

    People are suffering, but the Minister of Health is meddling with LG polls and the election of mayors to LG council. Even though MINISTRIES have been reduced in number, appointed ministers have been performing their duties to the letter.

  • 3
    3

    Hi Leela, The first leg of my summer holiday is over !( OC now don’t get excited at the mention of a leg !)

    Europe is boiling !

    Kind of missed you Leela.Every German I met on the Riviera seem to have heard of you ! They think you are South Asia’s gift to Germany ! You , OC and SJ pack some brain there ! ( three brains that work like one ?, Sounds like Basil’s Brain !

    Was unlucky at the tables which added to my unhappiness.

    It is far too hot here in London. May be a few weeks in Sweden , a country I like very much.

    • 3
      2

      London or Wilpattu?
      Which Germans do you mean by this? those in the topic who became your customers?
      or any experts in the medical or other disciplines?

      To the best of my knowledge, I don’t interact with anyone from the RED LIGHT area. How can I find out about them, then? Why bring up hairy legs again, by the way? Did your customers voice any complaints?
      However, there are some people who might be your coworkers three house blocks away from ours. They make as much easy money as you do.

      Some of us, incidentally, were forced to assume you were dead. What happened to nutless Lester?

      • 3
        2

        Leela so refined !

        It is very appropriate that you comment on this JVP minister’s English .

        The three of you are a credit to South Asian English .

        Does Ranil speak good English or is it Singlish a very ceylonised way of talking (like JR and Esmund) , Hell of a fellow no ! give him a slap ! chronic guy ! hit him for a six ! when I corner you you run away no !

        • 2
          1

          Rest well. Your services in the south of France must have been exhausting, Deepthi.

          The number of customers you had this time does not interest us. No more information about hairy legs while R25 and similar groups propagate vile lies about Sinhalaya’s bigotry against the country’s minorities. The boy needs to learn more about the realities of that nation.
          :
          Who was responsible for providing SL with internet access? Who was responsible for bringing Star Link to Sri Lanka?
          Was it Tilvin Silva or LATE Wijweera?
          How could a nitwit like Handunetti have called Elon Musk an economic killer?——————–> pundit Douglas (Guru for Kadamandiya people) is dead silent on this…. ?

          There are regional differences and accents in the way languages are spoken.
          Despite having a strong accent, the English that the latep Premier Nelson Mandela spoke was understandable to everyone. Late Minister Kadirgamar, spoke with his own accent.
          Whatever accent you are accustomed to using when speaking English or any other language, what counts is the content. Verstanden ?

          Even though Handunetti speaks Sinhala, he is ignorant of the subject’s facts. They are a lack of intelligence and knowledge.

        • 2
          2

          cont.
          Who was responsible for providing SL with internet access? Who was responsible for bringing Star Link to Sri Lanka?
          Was it Tilvin Silva or LATE Wijweera?
          How could a nitwit like Handunetti have called Elon Musk an economic killer?——————–> pundit Douglas (Guru for Kadamandiya people) is dead silent on this…. ?

          There are regional differences and accents in the way languages are spoken.
          Despite having a strong accent, the English that the latep Premier Nelson Mandela spoke was understandable to everyone. Late Minister Kadirgamar, spoke with his own accent.
          Whatever accent you are accustomed to using when speaking English or any other language, what counts is the content. Verstanden ?

          Even though Handunetti speaks Sinhala, he is ignorant of the subject’s facts. They are a lack of intelligence and knowledge.

  • 2
    1

    As OPPOSITION MPs, JVP strongly criticized the leaders’ actions after using public funds to fund their international travels.
    One should also ask AKD what he brought back from his visits:
    1) Vietnam 2) Dubai
    3) Germany and 4) China’s Handunetti the Ganabaaraya?

    Media over to you:

    In this sense, I wonder why Sri Lankan media continue to act as though they are being fed clay.

    They never realized that all other fingers were already pointed at them when they pointed the finger at someone else. They must now gradually come to terms with the fact that, as my brother HT once said, they are nothing more than crying infants. Before long, AKD will have to commit suicide.

Leave A Comment

Comments should not exceed 200 words. Embedding external links and writing in capital letters are discouraged. Commenting is automatically disabled after 5 days and approval may take up to 24 hours. Please read our Comments Policy for further details. Your email address will not be published.