Compiled by Nicola Jayasundera

WHY UNITY IS A PANACEA

Malinthie De Silva believes that unity is the need in Sri Lanka’s darkest hours

Q: What’s the good, the bad and the ugly in Sri Lanka today?

A: Sri Lanka is a country with a rich heritage, and is home to a multiethnic and multicultural community. We have amazing endemic species, beautiful landscapes and glorious weather. Delicious Sri Lankan cuisine and hospitality are known across the world.

What’s bad about Sri Lanka is that it is unable to develop due to political instability and poor governance. A lack of transparency and accountability have resulted in issues such as the recent economic crisis.

And what’s ugly is that we live in a society where law and order are generally absent.

Q: And what are the other challenges facing our country at this time?

A: Sri Lanka is facing a severe debt crisis, which is negatively impacting growth.

Income disparities are widening, and rising unemployment and high inflation are resulting in too many people falling below the poverty line. And the brain drain is increasing as our talented youth continue to seek greener pastures overseas.

Q: Do you believe that all Sri Lankans will be united one day – and how and why, if so?

A: Yes, I think Sri Lanka will be united one day. People have suffered for decades due to the lack of unity. We need to stand united as a nation – especially in these difficult times.

Much like a chain is as strong as its weakest link, unity among the people is essential for the development of our country.

If the current generation changes its attitude towards racism and religious bigotry, we can transform ourselves into a community with mutual respect and unity.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

A: I see myself as a qualified professional in my chosen field, and serving my country and alma mater. And I see myself as an entrepreneur contributing to our economy, as well as a versatile musician performing on the world stage.

Q: And where do you see Sri Lanka in a decade or so from today?

A: On the positive side, I see Sri Lanka developing gradually with its plans for growing the economy. Development of the Port City Colombo will transform our nation into a financial hub in the region. I also see the country strengthening its position as a tourist destination.

On a negative note however, I can’t foresee political instability and corruption being resolved even after a decade.

Q: Who is responsible for climate change and global warming, in your view – and what must be done about these issues?

A: Although industrialisation has been the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, everyone is responsible for climate change. Individuals must adapt to greener practices in their transportation, energy consumption and lifestyles, and set an example for others to follow.

Q: How do you view the growing importance of social media today?

A: Social media enables people to communicate their thoughts freely. In the past, very few people had a voice and so many were frustrated because they had no platform to air their views.

Social media connects people across the globe instantly; and it has transformed how people interact and share information compared to traditional time-consuming methods. Many businesses now use social media platforms to promote their products and services, and trade as well.

However, cybercrime and privacy issues must be addressed. And some people waste productive time by engaging in meaningless activities on social media.

While reaping its benefits, we must also be mindful of social media’s drawbacks. Parents, teachers and legislators need to be more responsible, and actively protect our youth from the negative effects of social media.

Q: And finally, where do you see the world in 10 years’ time?

A: With the accelerated growth of AI, I believe that technology will come to dominate humans.

Advancements in renewable energy, quantum computing and biotechnology will certainly have a positive impact on the modern world. And medical innovations will improve the health of people.

The energy crisis and climate change will have drastic impacts on the world if they’re not addressed promptly and meaningfully.

I believe that world peace will be challenged over the next decade with civil unrest and global wars bringing about disruption and loss of life.