Remembering
Dr Nissanka Wijeyeratne
Today
marks the 92nd birth anniversary of the late Deshamanya,
Dr.NissankaWijeyratne, one of the most illustrious sons of Sri Lanka, a
multifaceted personality, who was an erudite scholar, civil servant,
politician, diplomat, poet, orator and Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri
Dalada Maligawa.
As a civil servant, he discharged his duties with utmost efficiency.
He held several portfolios and was a brilliant debater in parliament. He
was a skillful negotiator. I came to know Dr.Nissanka Wijeyratne in
1978, while in Kandy,and ever since, I had the pleasure of closely
associating with him until his demise in 2007.
Although Dr. Wijeyratne was a Buddhist, he had a vast and intimate
knowledge of all religions, and he quoted copiously from various
scriptures during his discussions with me. To him, all human beings were
equal, He was a firm believer that religion, was the path to God, the
truth.
Dr Wijeyratne was a man of high values and he was a sincere friend,
ready and willing to help and assist anyone who sought his help,
assistance and guidance, even if the person was his adversary or critic
or whether he was rich or poor, which indeed was a rare quality. He had
vast knowledge and a fabulous memory. He had a knack of settling
disputes and held in high esteem for his intellect and prowess. Dr
Wijeyeratne projected Sri Lanka's image globally. His death left a void
in me, his family and friends.
I take pleasure in reminiscing his virtues on his 92nd birthday. May
his memory continue to illumine his family and friends.
- G. Sathasivam
M. Saheed Sulaiman - A genial gentleman
M. Saheed Sulaiman, project manager of the then Nylon Six Project of
the Petroleum Corporation expired June 9 at his Vajira Road residence in
Colombo.
He was a marked out sportsman during his University life, where he
basked in glory as a triple coloursman, captaining the cricket, hockey
and rugger teams
A chemical engineer by profession, Saheed took up a bold decision in
taking up the challenge at the Qatar Government Petroleum Corporation (AGPC),
and accomplished his assignment, winning the confidence of his employers
in this desert land, during its early development in Petroleum
resources. Saheed had always a winning ways and was a source of
encouragement and inspiration, especially to the youth.
These characteristics he amply demonstrated when he threw his lot
with Azahim Mohamed in ushering the Apollo era (formation of the Apollo
XI Cricket Club in Borella) 35 years ago and excelled in both batting
and bowling and was a guiding force imparting coaching lessons to the
'Un ones. He was a genial gentleman and a great sociable character. None
of us who associated with him will ever forget his pleasant demeanor,
always wearing that sweet smile on his face. He was a brother-in-law of
Alhaj M. H. Mohamed, former Minister and Speaker of Parliament.
An octogenarian (85 yrs) at the time of his demise, Saheed Sulaiman
leaves behind his beloved wife Mareena and two sons - Reza and Reaz and
daughter Shaha. May Allah Subhanawu tha'ala grant him the highest
felicity in Jennathul Firdous-Ameen!
Alhaj AHM Azwer
Former MP/Minister
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