Even though the system works smoothly for thousands, newcomers often stumble. Avoid these mistakes:
Keep a small notebook. Write:
Under Sri Lanka’s Wages Board Ordinance, certain trades (including furniture manufacturing and garments) have mandated minimum wages and overtime rates.
Labor unions (like the Nidahas Sevaka Sangamaya) have tried to regularize Badu workers, but the informal nature of Moratuwa’s SME sector makes enforcement difficult.
The employer defines what counts as one "Badu" . Examples:
Banks and microfinance institutions require collateral, credit history, and paperwork — things that a daily-wage carpenter or a small-scale fabric reseller often lacks. Yet these same people need to buy raw materials (lumber, cloth, nails, thread) daily. The Badu number fills the gap.
“In Moratuwa, your Badu number is your economic passport. Lose it, and you lose your ability to work tomorrow.” — Local furniture workshop owner, Panadura Road.
If you are a newcomer to Moratuwa’s workforce — say, a migrant from Kegalle or a young carpenter starting your own workshop — follow these steps to secure your Badu number:
Name: Priyantha (name changed)
Location: Katubedda, Moratuwa
Work: Polishing wooden chair legs for an export order.
This is below the 2025 living wage in Colombo district (approx. LKR 45,000/month). Priyantha supplements with evening loading work.
After 2–3 weeks of consistent cash buying, you ask: “Malli, Badu number ekak danna puluwan?” (Brother, can you give me a Badu number?). The shopkeeper will typically consult a worn-out notebook or ask senior staff if they know you.