Traditional values at State institutions

Shirley WIJESINGHE

COLOMBO: Considering recommendations of the Cultural Affairs and National Heritage Ministry on the need for building an indigenous identity away from concepts spawned by globalisation, Ministers have decided that all Public sector institutions should adopt several measures as a pioneering step to inculcate into the masses’ minds Sri Lanka’s traditional values and customs, a Public Administration and Home Affairs Ministry circular said.

Public institutions including Public Corporations and Statuary Boards should play the National Anthem at the beginning of the day.

Receptionists should receive guests with clasped hands and address them with the greeting Ayubowan, Vanakkam or Assalama Alaikkum.

Officers at telephone exchanges too should greet callers in the same manner.

The release also said during functions and special occasions at State institutions, priority should be given to local food.