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| Sunday, 16 January 2005 |
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Features |  |
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Hansard editor swept away by Tsunami When Morano Basim Amit and his family acquired a modest motor vehicle, and decided to drive upto Kataragama, a traditional ritual adopted by many, they did not bargain to encounter the angry waves of Tsunami. By late afternoon on Sunday 26th December 2004, the country was a buzz and everyone was frantically trying to locate the whereabouts of loved ones, having heard of the destruction the tidal waves had caused to the coastal belt of our dear Motherland. The phone rang at home and my brother informed me that he had reliable information that Cousin Morano and his family were en-route to Kataragama and there was no trace of the family. I began to console myself hoping for the best and trusting on the Almighty to protect and bring home the family safely. The hours moved on, and little or no information of Morano came in. Nevertheless the TV stations broadcasted several harrowing incidents giving us a frightening prospect of the eventualities. Every incident bore a sad tale, and our concern and anxiety for our beloved cousin and his family grew stronger and more emotional. Morano's alma mater was Carey College, Colombo where he successfully completed his early education and was soon employed in the Judiciary Services and was assigned to the Supreme Court. He was both a competent stenographer and a diligent employee. Later on he rose to higher positions in view of his dedication to his tasks. Subsequently he had a brief overseas stint and he returned to Sri Lanka to settle down in his career that would ultimately give him satisfaction. Morano by nature had a quiet, yet unassuming personality, who commanded respect both from his relatives and close friends. I have seen him on numerous occasions amongst relatives and his favourite cousins, where he would join in the conversation only with a few words. Yet he would make his point effective and acceptable and thus win many hearts. He spoke softly, often remained calm and would always have a sympathetic ear to those who deserved his care. Cousin Morano, was tall, always impeccably clad and loved to jest with those close to him. However, he always meant well and would not hurt anyone with his light fun. He had an excellent command of the language and could write extremely well, thus bringing out the essence of his thoughts to the reader. I remember several years ago a lesson I learnt from him on 'letter writing'. He told me that you need to visualize the person you intend to write to, and imagine that you are talking to that person. Words would then, simply flow from your pen, thus bringing out your thoughts, in the most creative and effective manner. I have always practiced his suggestion and I'm grateful to him for his excellent piece of advice. Perhaps it was his ability to communicate so effectively and sheer hard work coupled with commitment that earned Morano the position of Editor, Hansard in Parliament. He was the first Malay to hold this enviable and prestigious position in the Administrative Service of the House that passes Legislation in Sri Lanka. - Taslim Rahaman |
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