Asian Tribune

Apple says iPhone 17 ‘most popular ever’ as sales soar

Asian TribuneMay 4, 2026

By Staff Writer California Apple has reported record-breaking demand for its latest smartphone, with the iPhone 17 becoming the most successful launch in the company’s 50-year history. Financial results released on Thursday show that overall sales grew by 17% to $111bn (£81bn) in the first three months of the year. The growth was spearheaded by...

Controversial coal shipment unloaded ‘discreetly’ amid transparency concerns

Asian TribuneMay 4, 2026

By Staff Writer Colombo, Sri Lanka A shipment of coal imported by the multinational conglomerate Hayleys has arrived in Sri Lanka and is being unloaded under a veil of secrecy, according to local reports. The vessel, which reached the port earlier this week, has drawn intense scrutiny due to the unconventional nature of its arrival...

Prageeth Ekneligoda: New judges appointed for missing journalist case

Asian TribuneMay 4, 2026

By Staff Writer Colombo, Sri Lanka Sri Lanka’s Chief Justice has appointed a special permanent Trial-at-Bar bench to hear the long-running case involving the disappearance of journalist Prageeth Ekneligoda. The case will be presided over by a panel of three High Court judges: Nayana Seneviratne, Nalin Hewawasam, and Lakmali Hewawasam. The move marks a significant...

Sri Lanka officials protest ‘political’ appointments to national clean-up project

Asian TribuneMay 4, 2026

By Staff Writer Colombo, Sri Lanka A government initiative to clean up Sri Lanka has sparked a backlash from civil servants, who claim the appointment of hundreds of “coordinators” is a politically motivated move that threatens the independence of the state service. The “Clean Sri Lanka” national programme, launched under the vision of a “beautiful...

Anura Karunathilake Sworn In as New Minister of Energy

Asian TribuneApril 21, 2026

In a strategic cabinet move, Anura Karunathilake was sworn in as the new Minister of Energy before President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today, April 20, 2026. The ceremony took place at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. Key Highlights:

UAE Dismantles Terrorist Network Linked to Iran and Hezbollah

Asian TribuneApril 21, 2026

United Arab Emirates (UAE) security authorities have successfully dismantled a sophisticated “terrorist network” funded and directed by Iran and Lebanon’s Hezbollah. The state security apparatus arrested several members of the cell, which was operating inside the country to undermine national security and financial stability. Key Highlights: This major security breakthrough comes amidst heightened regional tensions...

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung Begins Landmark State Visit to India

Asian TribuneApril 21, 2026

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, accompanied by First Lady Kim Hea-kyung, arrived in New Delhi on April 19, 2026, for a high-profile three-day state visit. This marks the first visit by a South Korean leader to India in over eight years, signaling a significant recalibration of the “Special Strategic Partnership” between the two nations. Key...

Eshan Malinga: Reviving the Vanishing Art of Reverse Swing in Cricket

Asian TribuneApril 21, 2026

Sri Lankan rising star Eshan Malinga is making headlines across the cricketing world for his exceptional ability to execute the ‘Reverse Swing’—a skill that is becoming increasingly rare in the modern, batter-friendly era of the game. A report on April 20, 2026, highlights how the young pacer is bringing back this strategic art form with...

PHIs Warn of Increased Rat Fever Risk During New Year Festivities

Asian TribuneApril 21, 2026

Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) in Sri Lanka have issued a formal warning regarding the heightened risk of Leptospirosis, commonly known as “Rat Fever,” during the ongoing New Year celebrations. The warning, released on April 20, 2026, highlights the dangers associated with traditional games and activities held in high-risk environments. Key Highlights:

Mideast Ceasefire in Jeopardy After U.S. Seizure of Iranian Cargo Ship

Asian TribuneApril 21, 2026

Concerns are mounting globally that the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran may collapse following the U.S. Navy’s seizure of an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel. The incident, reported on April 20, 2026, has cast a shadow over diplomatic efforts to secure a long-term peace in the region. Key Highlights: