Rise an Hour Earlier – A Bright Step Toward Progress!

Let us start the day one hour earlier. By making full use of natural daylight, we can take a bold step toward saving electricity and improving national productivity— especially in these challenging times.

With the looming increase in electricity tariffs, this practical shift offers a range of benefits:

• Electricity savings: Reducing our reliance on artificial lighting and appliances during the day can significantly cut our energy bills.
•  Increased productivity: Studies show that people are more energetic and focused in the early morning. Starting earlier can enhance efficiency at work and school. „ Synchronised schedules: Workplaces, schools, and shops should shift their operating hours forward to maximise this benefit collectively.
•  Spiritual wisdom: The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said, “O Allah, bless my nation in their early mornings.”
•  Reported by al-Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, and Ahmad. Authenticated by al-Albani (Sahih).
•  Economic revival: Our economy, already struggling and further strained by the 44% tariff hike imposed by the Trump administration, could gain a much-needed lift through energy conservation and improved productivity.

I kindly request HE President A K Dissanayake and Hon Prime Minister Dr Ms. H Amarasuirya to consider implementing this initiative on a trial basis—say for 3 or 6 months—and assess its tangible benefits to the public and the country. Let’s turn on the daylight—and turn down the pressure.

Mohamed Zahran

Colombo.