’World-first’ vaccine designed by artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence has been used to develop a ’’fundamentally new’’ type of vaccine that could protect against large swathes of viruses and prevent pandemics, say researchers.

Shakira to perform at World Cup opening ceremony

Colombian pop star Shakira will perform her official song for the 2026 World Cup at the competition’s opening ceremony in Mexico.

Death toll rises to 13 in Anguruwatota elders’ home fire

The death toll from the fire at the ‘Senehase Kedella’ elders’ home in Batagoda, Anguruwatota has risen to 13, after another victim succumbed to severe burn injuries while receiving treatment in hospital.

’1990’’ under military rule: Suwa Seriya employees launch protest

For the first time in its history, employees of the ’1990’ Suwa Seriya emergency ambulance service have launched a street protest yesterday in Colombo. Staff members gathered to voice their strong dissent against what they described as a newly imposed ’’military-style administration’’ and arbitrary workspace transfers that undermine the welfare of workers.

Water sources polluted with human waste, contained constituents unfit for human consumption

Laboratory tests carried out by the health authorities have revealed that the spread of Meningitis in the Deniyaya area recently was due to the use of polluted water. It has been revealed that the people in the affected area depend on natural water resources including fountains and the community water supplies to meet their requirements of drinking water.

Construction sector on brink as 40% of firms become inactive - Sri Lanka Construction Association President

About 40 percent of businesses in Sri Lanka’s construction sector have become inactive due to continued changes in tax policies, the increase in VAT and the depreciation of the rupee, President of Sri Lanka Construction Association Susantha Liyanaarachchi said.

People living in tents face severe hardship, move back to homes in endangered areas

More than 25 Ditwah affected families living in tents in Wewandon estate in Kotmale have been burdened with further hardship due to the prevailing heavy rains.

The Super El Niño is Not a Prophecy of Doom. It is a Deadline.

It is easy to read headlines about the coming Super El Niño in 2026 and feel a familiar dread. After the economic implosion of 2022, the agricultural wipeout of 2021, and the floods of recent years, we suffer from climate fatigue. We treat these warnings like astrological prophecies vague, distant, and unavoidable.

Fresh move to restructure two State Banks? : Ravi K

Highlighting that there is a fresh move to restructure two State Banks by offering shares to the public, Opposition MP Ravi Karunanayake yesterday urged the Government to come out with the actual position with regard to the two institutions.

First-ever Public Property Act changes sought over Deega Danthu’s death

Authorities are taking steps to invoke the Public Property Act for the first time in Sri Lanka against a suspect accused of causing the death of the iconic tusker Deega Danthu, who was fatally electrocuted after becoming entangled in an illegally installed high-voltage electric fence.

Delay in cancer equipment procurement causing heavy losses: Specialist

Medical and Civil Rights Doctors’ Trade Union Alliance Chairman and Specialist Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa, has alleged that prolonged delays in procuring advanced cancer radiation therapy equipment have deprived patients of quality treatment and caused significant economic losses to the country.

Water cut in Rajagiriya, Nawala and Kolonnawa areas

The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) announced that water supply to several areas will be suspended until 8.00 p.m. today due to a sudden rupture in the main water transmission pipeline from Ambatale to Kolonnawa.

UK universities face ban on recruiting foreign students under new immigration rules

The United Kingdom (UK) has introduced new immigration rules that could see universities banned from recruiting foreign students if they fail to meet stricter compliance requirements.

No talks yet on fresh IMF programme

As calls emerge from various political quarters for the Government to secure a fresh programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to be implemented after the current bailout package, a spokesperson for the global lender said that Sri Lanka’s engagement for such an initiative is yet a matter to be discussed.

Cancer drug shortage, price hikes threaten patients

Cancer patients and their families are facing severe difficulties due to the ongoing shortage of several essential cancer drugs, including Neupogen S.C., and the exorbitant prices of medicines available outside the state hospital system, Senior Medical and Civil Rights Doctors’ Trade Union Alliance Chairman Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa said.

Rumesh Tharanga stuns Rome with record javelin throw

Sri Lankan javelin sensation Rumesh Tharanga produced a historic performance at the prestigious Rome Diamond League, setting a new meet record with a sensational throw of 92.62 metres.

Gas, water and electricity tariffs set to rise: Ananda Palitha

The prices of essential services and commodities, including domestic LP gas, water and electricity, could increase in the coming months, Media Spokesperson and Convener of the Samagi Energy and Joint Trade Unions Force, Ananda Palitha warned.

Principal service grade III recruitment exam on June 7

The limited competitive examination for recruitment to Grade III of the Sri Lanka Principal Service for the year 2025 is scheduled to be held on the June 7.

CSE extends losses as geopolitical risks and tariff concerns weigh on sentiment

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) extended its downward trajectory on Thursday, with both benchmark indices recording sharp losses as investor sentiment remained under pressure from escalating tensions in the Middle East and growing concerns over the United States’ proposed tariff measures on foreign exporters.

OIC accused in gem theft probe granted bail

The Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Eheliyagoda Police Station, who was arrested in connection with an investigation conducted by the National Police Commission, was released on bail by the Avissawella Magistrate’s Court today.

Iran’s IRGC says ‘no peace in region’ without Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says there will be “no peace in the region” without Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

Colombo High Court Lawyers’ Association opposes proposed extension of judges’ retirement age

The Colombo High Court Lawyers’ Association has urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to abandon a reported proposal to increase the retirement age of judges of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, warning that such a move could undermine judicial independence, disrupt career progression within the Judicial Service and erode public confidence in the judiciary.

Bondi Beach shooting hero charged with domestic assault

The man who disarmed one of the alleged perpetrators of the deadly Bondi Beach shooting has been charged with assault.

‘Suicide risk’ vs ‘Oscar-worthy act’: Court hears contrasting claims on Sallay

During submissions before court, President’s Counsel Shavindra Fernando, appearing for former State Intelligence Service Director Suresh Sallay, contended that based on the findings contained in the reports of the five consultant psychiatrists who examined the suspect, the court should consider granting appropriate relief under the provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

Navy arrests 44 for illegal fishing activities

The Sri Lanka Navy arrested 44 individuals and seized several vessels and vehicles used in illegal fishing operations conducted across island waters between May 16 and 31.

National plan for early warning, early action launched

The “Sri Lanka National Anticipatory Action Roadmap 2026-2030” was launched today (June 4) at the Cinnamon Grand, Colombo, marking a key step forward in enhancing the country’s disaster preparedness and climate resilience through proactive measures.

31 canals renovated for flood control, irrigation; project to finish by October

Deputy Minister of Urban Development Eranga Gunasekara said that 31 canals have been renovated and maintained under a joint government programme aimed at flood control and improving irrigation, with the project scheduled to be completed before October this year.

Rupee further weakens against US Dollar

The Sri Lankan Rupee depreciated further against the US Dollar today (04), compared to Wednesday, with the selling rate rising to Rs. 340, according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

US Lawmakers vote to halt military action by Trump

The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday approved a war powers resolution seeking to halt American military action against Iran, delivering a rare bipartisan rebuke to President Donald Trump as opposition to the three-month conflict continues to grow.

Over 350 online fraud cases reported so far in 2026– SLCERT

A total of 360 cyber-related financial fraud incidents have been reported so far this year in Sri Lanka, according to the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT).