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Colombo, Sri Lanka – Train services across Sri Lanka are set to be disrupted starting tonight, February 17, 2026, as locomotive engineers prepare to withdraw from operations. The strike action stems from opposition to a government proposal to train military officers as train drivers, a move the union views as unacceptable. The decision follows unsuccessful discussions at the Ministry of Transport, leaving commuters facing significant travel challenges.

The dispute centers on a plan to begin training for a group of military officers to operate trains, a proposal strongly opposed by existing train drivers. During a meeting for newly recruited drivers, the existing drivers voiced their concerns, ultimately rejecting the initiative. After attempts to reach a resolution with the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation failed, the executive committee of the locomotive engineers voted to proceed with the strike, commencing at midnight tonight.

The Locomotive Engine Operators Union (LEOU) Secretary, D.C. Edirisinghe, stated that the strike is a direct response to the government’s decision regarding the military training program, as reported by the Daily Mirror. The union argues that utilizing military personnel in this capacity undermines the expertise and experience of qualified civilian train drivers.

This isn’t the first time Sri Lanka’s railway system has faced disruption due to labor disputes. A 12-day strike in 2019, lasting from September 25 to October 7, 2019, centered on salary increment demands. That strike, considered one of the longest in Sri Lanka since 2008, prompted the government to declare the railway service an essential service, temporarily cancelling employee leave. The 2019 action likewise highlighted the broader issues affecting Sri Lanka Railways, which has been described as an inefficient transport mode often operating at a loss.

Impact on Commuters and Transport

The impending strike is expected to cause significant disruption to train services nationwide. Passengers who rely on trains for their daily commute, particularly in urban areas, will be forced to seek alternative transportation. The impact will likely be felt most acutely during peak hours. Social media is already buzzing with concerns, as evidenced by posts on platforms like Facebook, with individuals inquiring about the status of specific routes, such as the popular Ella to Kandy train.

Government Response and Essential Service Declarations

The government’s decision to consider military personnel for train driver roles appears to be an attempt to address potential staffing shortages or operational gaps within the railway system. However, this approach has been met with strong resistance from the unions. In past instances of railway strikes, such as the 2019 dispute, the government has invoked essential service declarations to limit the impact of industrial action, a measure that cancels employee leave and restricts the right to strike. It remains to be seen whether a similar declaration will be issued in response to the current situation.

Sri Lanka Railways plays a crucial role in the country’s transportation network, providing an accessible and affordable mode of travel for many citizens. However, the system has faced ongoing challenges, including frequent protests and demands for improved working conditions and higher salaries. These issues have repeatedly caused difficulties for the public and contributed to the railway’s financial instability.

What to Expect Next

As the midnight deadline approaches, the situation remains fluid. Further negotiations between the government and the locomotive engineers’ union are unlikely given the immediate strike action. The immediate impact will be a cessation of train services, and the duration of the strike will depend on the outcome of any future dialogue. Commuters are advised to seek alternative transportation arrangements and stay informed about updates from railway authorities. The long-term implications of this dispute could include a reevaluation of staffing strategies within Sri Lanka Railways and a renewed focus on addressing the concerns of its workforce.

Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below. And please share this article with anyone who may be affected by the train strike.

Bangkok – Thailand’s monarchy, the Chakri dynasty, is facing an unprecedented challenge to its traditional authority as the proliferation of social media erodes the reverence once afforded the royal family, according to analysts. The assessment comes as the institution navigates a period of heightened public scrutiny and calls for increased transparency.

Founded in 1782 by Rama I, following the fall of Ayutthaya, the Chakri dynasty has overseen Thailand’s transformation from the Kingdom of Siam to a modern nation. Rama I, originally known as Chao Phraya Chakri, established Bangkok as the new capital, consolidating power after a period of instability and conflict with Burma, as detailed by Britannica. The dynasty’s longevity – spanning nine reigns to date – has been a cornerstone of Thai national identity.

However, the digital age has fundamentally altered the dynamic between the monarchy and the Thai public. Where once information was tightly controlled and royal pronouncements were disseminated through official channels, social media platforms now allow for the rapid and widespread sharing of opinions, criticisms, and even alleged inaccuracies regarding the royal family. This increased visibility, described as a “visibility trap” by The Diplomat, has stripped away the mystique that historically shielded the monarchy from direct public assessment.

The current monarch, Vajiralongkorn, or Rama X, ascended to the throne in 2016 following the death of his father, Bhumibol Adulyadej. Bhumibol’s reign was marked by widespread respect and affection, and he was often seen as a unifying figure in Thai society. Rama X’s reign, however, has coincided with a more assertive online discourse surrounding the monarchy, fueled by a younger generation increasingly comfortable questioning traditional institutions.

The debate surrounding the monarchy is further complicated by Thailand’s strict lèse-majesté laws, which criminalize any act deemed disrespectful to the king, queen, heir-apparent, or regent. These laws have been used to prosecute individuals for expressing critical opinions online, leading to concerns about freedom of speech and political repression. The application of these laws has drawn criticism from international human rights organizations.

Analysts suggest that the monarchy’s long-term survival hinges on its ability to adapt to the changing social and political landscape. Reform, including greater transparency and a willingness to engage with public concerns, is increasingly seen as the only viable path forward. The dynasty’s emblem, featuring the discus (Chakra) and trident (Trishula), celestial weapons of the gods Vishnu and Shiva, symbolizes the sovereign’s perceived divine status – a concept increasingly challenged in the modern era, according to historical accounts of the dynasty’s origins.

The Chakri dynasty’s early years, under Rama I, focused on rebuilding the kingdom after the Burmese conflicts and reasserting Ayutthaya’s former glory. Subsequent monarchs, including Mongkut (Rama IV) and Chulalongkorn (Rama V), oversaw periods of modernization and engagement with Western powers, negotiating treaties to avoid the fate of neighboring countries like Burma. However, the current challenges posed by social media represent a fundamentally different threat – one that cannot be addressed through traditional diplomatic or military means.

As of February 17, 2026, the palace has not issued a formal response to the growing calls for reform. A scheduled royal address to the nation, previously announced for late February, remains unconfirmed.

Canva, the global design platform, is seeking an Audio Content Specialist to join its team in Jakarta, Indonesia. This six-month contract position offers a hybrid work model, combining on-site and remote work, and represents an opportunity to contribute to a company rapidly expanding its audio capabilities. The role focuses on redefining how the world experiences design through sound, according to the company’s job posting.

The demand for skilled audio professionals in Indonesia is growing alongside the country’s expanding creative industries. Jakarta, as a major economic hub in Southeast Asia, is experiencing a renaissance in design, with increasing appreciation for sophisticated and innovative content. According to IFDM, Jakarta is a dynamic capital driving an economy characterized by an expanding middle class and a rising appreciation for luxury and sophisticated design (IFDM, December 2, 2025). This context positions Canva’s search for an Audio Content Specialist within a broader trend of investment in creative talent within the region.

Responsibilities and Required Skills

The Audio Content Specialist will be responsible for a range of tasks related to audio content creation and management. While specific responsibilities weren’t detailed, the role description emphasizes a focus on “redefining how the world experiences design.” This suggests a necessitate for creativity and a strong understanding of how audio can enhance the user experience. Candidates should possess a strong portfolio demonstrating their audio editing and production skills.

Indonesia’s design sector is increasingly focused on integrating leisure, farm, and resort elements into its projects, as seen in landscape approaches that utilize vibrant colors and enhance visual appeal (Veritas Design Group). While this role is specifically focused on audio, it highlights the broader emphasis on holistic and immersive design experiences within the Indonesian market.

Jakarta’s Growing Design Landscape

Jakarta is rapidly becoming a significant design hub in the Asia Pacific region. The opening of a large B&B Italia showroom – spanning 1,200 square meters – in Jakarta’s business district demonstrates the growing demand for high-end design solutions (IFDM, December 2, 2025). This investment in luxury design aligns with the broader economic trends in Indonesia, characterized by a rising middle class and increased disposable income.

The architectural landscape of Jakarta is also evolving, with studios like RAD+ar incorporating innovative design elements to address the local climate. Their work on offices utilizes curved walls, breezeways, and openings to naturally cool spaces (Dezeen). While not directly related to audio content, this demonstrates a broader commitment to innovative design solutions within the city.

Canva’s Expansion in the Region

Canva’s decision to hire an Audio Content Specialist in Jakarta reflects the company’s broader expansion within the Asia Pacific region. The role is a contract position, suggesting a potential for future opportunities as Canva continues to grow its presence in Indonesia. The company is actively seeking individuals who can contribute to its mission of empowering everyone to design.

The Indonesia Design District PIK 2 is positioning itself as the largest design and furniture center in Indonesia, further solidifying the country’s position as a key player in the regional design market (@indonesiadesigndistrict on Instagram). This growing ecosystem provides a fertile ground for creative professionals and companies like Canva to thrive.

The St. Regis Jakarta’s design, inspired by Indonesian jazz traditions, exemplifies the integration of cultural heritage with contemporary energy (Champalimaud Design). This focus on cultural storytelling is a trend that may influence Canva’s audio content strategy as it seeks to connect with local audiences.

Looking ahead, the success of this role will likely depend on the Audio Content Specialist’s ability to create engaging and innovative audio experiences that resonate with Canva’s diverse user base. The continued growth of Indonesia’s design sector and Canva’s commitment to the region suggest a positive outlook for this position and future opportunities in the field.

What are your thoughts on the growing design scene in Jakarta? Share your comments below and help spread the word about this exciting opportunity!