News

Pastor Jerome’s parents meet Ven. Omalpe Thero

Published

2 years ago

August 19, 2023

editor

The parents of Pastor Jerome Fernando had yesterday (Aug. 18) apologized for the controversial remarks made by their son.

The couple called on Ven. Omaple Sobhitha Thero at the headquarters of Ramanna Nikaya.

Fernando landed himself in hot water in May 2023 after a video of him making certain ‘derogatory’ statements on religious figures during one of his sermons was widely circulated on social media, and sparked much controversy.

Speaking to media after the meeting, Ven. Omaple Sobhitha Thero has said, “If an apology is sought after realising the error, we are prepared to forgive as a Buddhist society. The first round of discussions ended successfully and we hope to continue this.”

Pastor Jerome’s mother – Mrs. Fernando also thanked the Thero for the opportunity for a discussion and apologized to everyone whose sentiments were hurt by her son’s words.

News

COVID subvariants spreading in Asia detected in Sri Lanka

Published

10 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Medical Research Institute of Sri Lanka has confirmed that the COVID-19 variant currently spreading in the Asian region has also been identified in the country.

Dr. Jude Jayamaha, a specialist in viral diseases at the Medical Research Institute, stated that patients infected with the Omicron subvariants LF.7 and XFG are being reported locally.

Dr. Jayamaha explained that this finding was confirmed through research conducted on biological samples collected from several hospitals across the island.

However, he emphasized that there is no need for undue fear regarding these COVID-19 variants.

Health authorities have also stressed the importance of vulnerable groups—such as pregnant mothers, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses—following health guidelines, including wearing face masks and avoiding crowded places.

Dr. Jayamaha reiterated that new COVID-19 variants emerge periodically, and health authorities are continuously monitoring the situation, so the public should remain calm.

(newswire.lk)

(This story, originally published by newswire.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

Anudi misses out from Miss World Quarter-Finals

Published

10 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Miss World organization has announced its quarter-finalists, selecting 40 contestants from across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Sri Lanka’s Anudi Gunasekara, was not selected in the top 40, despite being recognized for her impressive performances in the Multimedia and Head-to-Head challenges.

The top 40 consisted of 10 contestants each from Asia & Oceania, Europe, Africa and the Americas.