1. www.catswebnews.lk , Business 2026

Euro Motors expands island wide automotive Dealer network to support customers “Beyond the Drive”

Euro Motors is strengthening its island-wide automotive ecosystem with the formal appointment and recognition of its dealership and Authorised Service Provider (ASP) partners at a special ceremony recently held at “The Blue”, Hilton Colombo. Held under the theme “Beyond the Drive,” the event marks an important step in Euro Motors’ continued network development, bringing together partners from across Sri Lanka to make vehicle sales, servicing, repairs and after-sales support more accessible to customers in their respective Home Towns.
As part of the network expansion, Euro Motors has appointed three categories of authorised partners: Display Points, 3S Dealers offering Sales, Spare Parts and Service, and dedicated Service Partners. Together, these partners are designed to provide customers with greater convenience and access to the services they need, enabling them to visit an authorised Euro Motors partner in their area for vehicle purchases, servicing, repairs, genuine spare parts and related after-sales requirements.
For Euro Motors, the relationship with a customer does not end when a vehicle is delivered. As the company expands its portfolio across passenger vehicles, SUVs, electric vehicles, Double cab and commercial vehicles, it is also strengthening the infrastructure that supports customers throughout the ownership journey. The expanded authorised network is intended to bring professional technical support, genuine spare parts, servicing, repairs and warranty-related assistance closer to customers across the island.
Mr. Ravindra Senarathna, Chief Operations Officer at Euro Motors, said, “Our ambition is not simply to expand our vehicle portfolio, but to strengthen the ecosystem that supports our customers throughout their ownership journey. By appointing Display Points, 3S Dealers and Service Partners across the island, we are making it more convenient for customers to access our vehicles and the After Sales support they need, closer to where they live and operate. This network is an important part of our long-term commitment to our customers and partners.”
The three-tiered partner network enables Euro Motors to address different aspects of the customer journey. Display Points provide customers with greater access to Euro Motors’ vehicle portfolio and information when considering a purchase, while 3S Dealers offer an integrated Sales, Spare Parts and Service experience. Service Partners, meanwhile, extend the company’s authorised after-sales and technical support network, providing customers with greater accessibility for regular servicing, repairs and maintenance.
The authorised network also plays an important role in supporting customers in maintaining their vehicles in accordance with the required service schedules. Customers are required to carry out their regular services through Euro Motors’  appointed authorised dealers island wide to remain eligible for warranty claims, subject to the applicable warranty terms and conditions. This helps ensure that vehicles receive the appropriate servicing, genuine parts and technical attention throughout the warranty period.
For customers, the growing network is particularly important as vehicle ownership extends beyond the initial purchase. Whether purchasing a new vehicle, maintaining a passenger vehicle, operating an EV or managing a commercial fleet, customers can now access authorised Euro Motors support through partners in their respective Home Towns.
For commercial-vehicle operators in particular, dependable after-sales support can be important in helping to minimise downtime and to keep the  businesses moving.
Euro Motors has operated in Sri Lanka for more than 20 years and has developed an island-wide distribution and after-sales network. The company currently represents a diverse portfolio of vehicle brands, including passenger and commercial offerings from brands such as Jetour, JAC and Dongfeng, Bonluck, Ankai and Joylong.
The appointment ceremony therefore represents more than the recognition of new business partners. It reflects Euro Motors’ continued investment in the network supporting its growing vehicle portfolio and its commitment to making sales, service, repairs, genuine spare parts and warranty support more accessible to customers across Sri Lanka.
As Euro Motors continues to develop its portfolio and national network, “Beyond the Drive” represents a simple principle. Wherever Euro Motors vehicles travel, authorised service and support remain within reach, ensuring customers receive the assistance they need, whenever they need it.

12.10.2026

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DIMO Care Camp 2026 Strengthens After-Sales Support for Sri Lanka’s Farming Community

DIMO Agribusinesses successfully concluded the DIMO Care Camp 2026, completing 38 activations across 38 locations islandwide from 8 August to 15 September 2026. Open to tractors of any brand or model, the initiative reinforced DIMO Agri Machinery’s commitment to providing reliable after-sales support while strengthening engagement with farming communities across Sri Lanka.
The DIMO Care Camps were conducted across key agricultural regions, with prominent locations including Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Vavuniya, Kilinochchi, Ampara, Monaragala, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa and Matale. By taking essential services closer to farming communities, the initiative highlighted the strength and accessibility of DIMO Agri Machinery’s islandwide after-sales service network.
Participants benefited from comprehensive tractor inspections, servicing and repairs, technical consultations and access to essential spare parts. DIMO’s experienced technical teams also provided tractor owners with practical guidance on proper maintenance, helping them improve the performance, efficiency and longevity of their machinery.
Beyond machinery-related services, participants were offered free health checks, including blood pressure checks, BMI assessments and blood glucose testing. The activations also created an engaging experience for participants through games and gifts, making the DIMO Care Camp more than just a service initiative. Participants were also encouraged and educated on ways to improve productivity and uplift their livelihoods through better machinery care and informed agricultural practices.
A special training session was conducted during the activation for agricultural machinery students at the Ethimale Vocational Training Centre. In addition to practical technical training, the session provided guidance on their future career progression and the opportunities available for professional development within the agricultural machinery sector. This initiative reflected DIMO’s broader commitment to developing technical capabilities and supporting the next generation of skilled professionals in Sri Lanka’s agriculture industry.
Commenting on the initiative, Rajeev Pandithage, Executive Director of DIMO, said, “The DIMO Care Camp was designed to make trusted technical expertise and after-sales support accessible to tractor owners across the country, regardless of the brand or model they operate. By combining practical support for farming communities with development opportunities for agricultural machinery technicians, DIMO aims to strengthen the wider agriculture ecosystem and contribute to greater productivity and sustainability within the sector.”
The successful completion reflects DIMO’s dedication to building long-term customer relationships and addressing their evolving operational needs. Through initiatives such as the DIMO Care Camp, DIMO continues to advance Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector by combining globally renowned agricultural solutions with comprehensive after-sales services, technical expertise and an extensive service network, while fuelling the dreams and aspirations of the nation’s farming community.

12.10.2026

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to Inaugurate Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 Today

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will inaugurate the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 today, 12 October, at the Shangri-La Colombo. Organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, the two-day Summit will feature senior business leaders, policymakers and international experts discussing Sri Lanka’s economic priorities and investment prospects.
Held under the theme “Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy,” this year’s Summit focuses on the next stage of Sri Lanka’s economic development - sustaining growth beyond stabilisation, attracting investment, strengthening regional trade links and developing new sources of economic activity.
The two-day programme on 12 and 13 October will address issues ranging from economic resilience and regional value chains to healthcare, energy and the role of digital technology in national development. Keynote speakers include the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Hon. Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Mr. T. Krishnakumar, Chief Executive Officer of Reliance Consumer Products Ltd, alongside senior representatives from the Asian Development Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Zydus Lifesciences and the International Finance Corporation.
The attendance of the President and Prime Minister over the two days of the Summit adds considerable significance to the Summit, bringing the country’s highest political leadership into discussions on economic reform, investment priorities and business conditions that will shape Sri Lanka’s growth in the years ahead.

12.10.2026

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Lankan and South Asian Startups

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Ten emerging startups showcased their business ideas and technology-driven solutions at First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch Demo Day 2026, marking an important milestone in their journey towards investment, business partnerships and international expansion.
Held on 1 October at Trace Expert City, the event brought together entrepreneurs participating in the 2026 programme, alongside investors, corporate representatives, judges, media personnel and members of Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem.
First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch is an initiative by First Capital Holdings PLC, a subsidiary of JXG (Janashakthi Group). The programme combines First Capital’s capital markets expertise with Hatch’s startup ecosystem to help emerging businesses gain access to funding, industry connections and opportunities to scale their operations.
The initiative has expanded beyond Sri Lanka, with programmes operating across four South Asian markets: Sri Lanka, Nepal, India and Bangladesh. This regional presence provides a wider platform for entrepreneurs to develop business relationships, explore new markets and connect with opportunities beyond their home countries.
At the Demo Day, the ten participating startups presented their business models, explained the challenges their solutions address and outlined their growth ambitions. The event also enabled founders to engage directly with investors, corporate leaders and other stakeholders who could support their next stage of development.
One of the key outcomes was the selection of three leading startups to advance to a closed-door equity funding round. The next stage will provide an opportunity for the selected businesses to present their propositions to potential investors and explore possible investment opportunities.
A major announcement at the event was the launch of HLAB, a collective fund of LKR 3 billion established to support early-stage and growth-stage Sri Lankan startups with regional expansion potential. First Capital Holdings PLC will serve as the anchor investor, committing LKR 300 million. The initiative is being developed in partnership with Lankan Angel Network and BOV Capital.
Dilshan Wirasekara, Managing Director and CEO of First Capital Holdings PLC, said Sri Lanka’s next phase of entrepreneurial growth would depend on connecting innovative ideas with capital, expertise and market opportunities.
He said First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch was designed to bring promising businesses closer to the resources and networks needed to expand, drawing on First Capital’s understanding of capital markets to support the country’s next generation of enterprises.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Chief Advisor to the President of Sri Lanka on Digital Economy, highlighted the country's potential to attract international investment in the digital sector.
He identified Sri Lanka’s skilled workforce and strong trust framework as key advantages for digital businesses and investors. He also outlined the potential for the country to build a digital economy worth US$15 billion by 2030, alongside approximately US$25 billion in cumulative value creation.
Dr. Wijayasuriya further highlighted planned initiatives aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship and competitiveness, including capital mobility facilitation to help Sri Lankan startups expand regionally while retaining their domestic base. A Virtual Special Economic Zone for digital businesses and enabling regulations for Virtual Asset Service Providers are also in the pipeline, according to his address.
The programme also offers an international opportunity for its overall winning startup. The number one startup from First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch 2026 is scheduled to travel to San Francisco in November to compete at the Startup World Cup, organised by US-based Pegasus Ventures. First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch serves as the official regional partner for the competition.
The international platform will give the selected founder an opportunity to connect with global entrepreneurs and investors while representing Sri Lanka on the international stage.
Jeevan Gnanam, Co-Founder of Hatch, said Demo Day marked the transition from developing a business within a structured programme to engaging with the wider commercial ecosystem. He highlighted the importance of access to investors, corporate partners, feedback and opportunities in helping startups move towards their next phase of growth.
With equity funding opportunities, a new LKR 3 billion collective fund and access to an international startup competition, First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch 2026 is seeking to strengthen the links between entrepreneurship, investment and market access.
The initiative reflects the growing importance of building a supportive environment for startups in Sri Lanka and the wider South Asian region, enabling promising businesses to secure resources, develop partnerships and pursue sustainable growth in increasingly competitive markets.

11.10.2026

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Hayleys Fentons Recognised at Satynmag Women Friendly Workplace Awards 2026

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Hayleys Fentons Limited has been recognised at the Satynmag Women Friendly Workplace Awards 2026 for its commitment to equal opportunities, career development and an inclusive working environment within the engineering sector.
The recognition highlights the company’s efforts to create a workplace where employees can advance their careers based on their skills, experience and performance, regardless of gender. Operating across multiple technical disciplines, Hayleys Fentons aims to ensure that women have access to opportunities in engineering, technical specialisations and leadership positions.
The company supports professional growth through merit-based career progression and access to technical training, leadership development and other professional development programmes. These initiatives are intended to strengthen employee capabilities while creating opportunities for long-term career advancement.
In addition to professional development, Hayleys Fentons recognises the importance of supporting female employees throughout different stages of their working and personal lives. Flexible working arrangements, parental leave provisions and childcare support are among the measures that help employees balance professional responsibilities with family commitments.
The company also maintains an equal-pay approach, with remuneration and career opportunities determined by merit, experience and performance rather than gender.
Commenting on the recognition, Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, said the achievement reflected the company’s commitment to creating an environment where employees could develop and progress according to their capabilities and performance.
He emphasised that expanding opportunities for women in engineering was particularly important to developing a stronger talent pipeline, adding that the company aimed to support career progression at every stage.
Lalani Weeraarachchi, General Manager – Human Resources at Hayleys Fentons Limited, also highlighted the importance of providing fair access to professional development and career advancement.
She said supporting women in engineering, alongside ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, remained an important part of the company’s commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.
The Satynmag Women Friendly Workplace Awards recognise organisations that implement workplace practices supporting women's participation, professional development and career progression.
Hayleys Fentons’ recognition underscores the growing importance of inclusive workplace policies in the engineering industry, where creating equal access to technical and leadership opportunities can help organisations attract, develop and retain talent.
Through its focus on merit-based advancement, employee support and professional development, Hayleys Fentons continues to promote a workplace culture that encourages employees to reach their full potential while contributing to the development of the engineering profession in Sri Lanka.

11.10.2026

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Ambewela Celebrates Double Victory at Global Business Excellence Awards 2026

Ambewela, Sri Lanka’s leading premium fresh milk brand, has secured two prestigious recognitions at the Global Business Excellence Awards 2026, being named Most Iconic Brand and Best Dairy Brand.
The dual recognition marks a proud milestone for Ambewela, celebrating both its excellence within the dairy category and the enduring trust it has earned among Sri Lankan consumers over the past 2 decades.
The awards were presented on 6 October 2026 at the BMICH Exhibition Centre Main Hall in Colombo 07. Organized by London Business Consultancy, United Kingdom, the Global Business Excellence Awards recognise achievements and excellence across industries. The programme received institutional recognition from DEC under the Ministry of Industry, Sri Lanka, with business focused research and academic review by the SITC Campus Business Faculty.
Being named Best Dairy Brand recognises Ambewela’s strength and excellence within the dairy category, while Most Iconic Brand reflects the lasting connection the brand has established with Sri Lankan consumers.
Ambewela dairy products is a household name synonymous with freshness and quality. Originating from Sri Lanka’s lushest highland pastures, each Ambewela product is the result of a meticulous process that ensures the highest quality dairy delights, from farm to family. The product range, which includes fresh milk, cheese, and yoghurt, consistently offers superior value and quality, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved brands.
As a leading premium fresh milk brand, Ambewela continues to focus on freshness and quality while championing the value of locally produced dairy. Its journey is closely linked to the development of Sri Lanka’s dairy industry and its contribution to strengthening appreciation for the local dairy sector.
The recognition is therefore a shared achievement with the consumers, employees, retailers and stakeholders who have contributed to Ambewela’s journey. Ambewela milk is never adulterated, with milk powder or any other substitutes. The milk is in its purest form and premium with high fat percentages and milk nutrients. The Friesian and Ayrshires cows at the Ambewela farms are considered the world’s best with highest pedigrees to deliver high-quality premium milk.
The international recognition also strengthens Ambewela’s credibility and premium positioning, reinforcing its reputation as a leading Sri Lankan dairy brand on a wider platform.
As Ambewela celebrates this significant achievement, the company remains committed to providing premium quality, unadulterated milk the consumers & nation deserves, from farm to family while contributing to the growth of Sri Lanka’s dairy industry.

09.10.2026

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ESOFT Brings UK-Regulated AI Education to Students Across Sri Lanka

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Students and working professionals across Sri Lanka will have greater access to artificial intelligence education following a new partnership between ESOFT and The Artificial Intelligence Board (The AI Board), UK, introducing a structured qualification pathway from age 14 to master’s level.
The initiative aims to extend access to internationally oriented AI education beyond major cities, enabling learners in towns and rural communities to pursue qualifications through ESOFT’s network of 40 study centres, as well as hybrid and online learning through ESOFT Online.
Officially launched on September 28, 2026, at Waters Edge, Battaramulla, the partnership establishes a six-stage learning pathway designed to support students at different stages of their academic and professional journeys.
The pathway begins with the Level 2 Award in Understanding AI for learners aged 14 and above, progressing through Level 3, Level 4 and Level 5 qualifications. Further opportunities include top-up degrees from Kingston University London and MSc programmes offered through ESOFT UNI.
Dr. Dayan Rajapakse, Founder, Chairman and Group Managing Director of ESOFT Group of Companies, said artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly relevant across almost every profession, making it essential for people to develop the ability to understand, apply and use the technology responsibly.
He said the partnership would provide Sri Lankan learners with a structured qualification pathway, while offering flexible access through physical study centres and online platforms. Free AI training for educators is also part of ESOFT’s commitment to expanding access to AI knowledge.
Learners will be able to choose between two specialised study tracks: Applied AI & Engineering and AI Business. While the first focuses on the technical and practical applications of artificial intelligence, the business pathway covers areas such as marketing, operations, finance, human resources, compliance, AI governance and strategy.
The programme reflects the growing role of AI across industries, highlighting that AI-related skills are relevant not only to programmers and engineers but also to business leaders, managers, educators and professionals in a wide range of fields.
According to the announcement, the qualifications are regulated by Ofqual, the regulator of qualifications and examinations in England. The programme is designed to provide defined, credit-bearing qualifications with clear progression opportunities.
The AI Board develops qualifications specifically for artificial intelligence and data, drawing on input from employers, educators and industry practitioners to align learning with practical workplace requirements.
Joseph Jones, Managing Director and Co-Founder of The AI Board, UK, said AI education should combine responsible practices with the skills employers need. He noted that collaboration with ESOFT would make the organisation’s qualification standards accessible to learners and educators throughout Sri Lanka.
Responsible AI is a central component of the programme, with learning covering ethical considerations, bias, privacy and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. These areas are increasingly important as AI applications become more widely integrated into education, business and public services.
As part of the initiative, ESOFT will also provide the Level 3 Award in AI for Teaching Professionals free of charge to teachers, lecturers and trainers. The programme aims to strengthen educators’ understanding of AI and support its informed use within the wider education system.
The launch event featured a panel discussion on “AI-Powered Governance and Economic Development”, bringing together representatives from academia, industry and technology. The panellists included Professor Sree Ganesh Thottempudi of SRH Berlin University, Joseph Jones of The AI Board, UK, and Indika De Zoysa, representing Huawei Technologies Lanka, the Computer Society of Sri Lanka and LK Domain Registry.
Established in 2000, ESOFT has more than 25 years of experience in education and operates 40 study centres across Sri Lanka.
Through this partnership, the organisation aims to make structured AI education more accessible to school students, higher education learners and working professionals, while supporting the development of digital skills needed in an increasingly AI-driven economy.

09.10.2026

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Daraz Sri Lanka Launches 10.10 Shopping Fest with Brand Offers, Vouchers and Payment Partner Savings

Daraz Sri Lanka is set to launch its 10.10 Shopping Fest, bringing shoppers deals across electronics, fashion, beauty, home appliances and everyday essentials. Going live at 8 p.m. on 9 October and continuing until 16 October, the campaign will bring together brand offers, vouchers and additional savings through participating payment partners.
Whether customers are upgrading their homes, refreshing their wardrobes or stocking up on household essentials, the Shopping Fest will offer a range of choices across different needs and budgets.
Participating brands include Celcius, Diamond, Anker, Aspor, Himalaya, Hemas, Unilever and Natures Beauty. Shoppers can also explore offers from Sharge, Tronsmart, Janet, COSRX, NutriMax Supplements, Herbal Bliss LK, Swisstek, Quantum Fitness, Moose, Amante and ProMate.
The campaign will open with Brand Rush Hour, running from 8 p.m. on 9 October to 2 a.m. on 10 October. During this six hour period, shoppers can access limited time deals and enjoy an extra 25% off with KOKO or an extra 20% off with participating bank partners on eligible purchases.
Participating bank and financial partners include Bank of Ceylon, Cargills Bank, Commercial Bank, LOLC Finance, Nations Trust Bank, Sampath Bank and Union Bank.
Following Brand Rush Hour, shoppers can continue to enjoy an extra 12% off with KOKO or bank discounts ranging from 10% to 15% during the live campaign period until 16 October. Discount rates and offer periods vary by partner.
Easy payment instalment options of three months or longer will also be available through selected banks, allowing eligible cardholders to spread the cost of their purchases. Available tenures and eligibility are subject to each bank’s terms and conditions.
Throughout the campaign, customers can explore Mega Deals, Hot Picks and Flat Discounts on selected products. Daraz Mall also brings together official brand stores and authorised sellers, giving shoppers access to branded products across a range of categories.
Shoppers are encouraged to collect available vouchers and add their preferred products to their carts ahead of the launch. The Daraz 10.10 Shopping Fest runs from 9 October at 8 p.m. until 16 October 2026, on the Daraz app and at www.daraz.lk.

09.10.2026

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ECCSL Celebrates 30 Years of Resilience, Achievement and a New Chapter

The European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (ECCSL) marked its 30th Anniversary at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Members’ Night held at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, bringing together distinguished members, business leaders, industry representatives, stakeholders and partners to celebrate three decades of strengthening economic and commercial relations between Sri Lanka and Europe.
The occasion marked an important leadership transition, with Past President Mr. John Wilson handing over the presidency to newly appointed President Mr. Ahamed ur Rahman. The transition signals a new chapter for ECCSL, building on the Chamber’s achievements while placing renewed emphasis on collaboration, innovation, sustainability and creating greater opportunities for its members.
Reflecting on the past year, President Ahamed ur Rahman highlighted the Chamber’s continued progress in strengthening engagement with European stakeholders, facilitating business dialogue, expanding networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities, and reinforcing ECCSL’s role within Sri Lanka’s business community. He also acknowledged the dedication of the Chamber’s team and members whose collective contribution has been central to its continued growth and resilience.
Founded in 1996, ECCSL has for 30 years served as a platform for promoting and strengthening economic and business relations between Sri Lanka and Europe, including trade and investment. Through its diverse membership, the Chamber facilitates connections, advocacy, knowledge exchange and collaboration while supporting businesses in navigating an increasingly interconnected and rapidly evolving global economy.
Sustainability and responsible business remain important elements of ECCSL’s mission. The Chamber continues to encourage practical approaches to environmental responsibility, social inclusion and responsible business practices, recognizing that sustainable and inclusive growth is essential to building a stronger and more resilient economy.
Following the formal AGM, the Members’ Night provided an opportunity for members and stakeholders to connect in a more informal setting and celebrate the relationships that underpin the ECCSL community.
As ECCSL enters its next chapter, the Chamber remains committed to serving as a bridge between European and Sri Lankan businesses by fostering strategic partnerships, facilitating meaningful dialogue, promoting trade and investment, and creating new avenues for sustainable business growth.
With 30 years of experience behind it and a new chapter underway, ECCSL remains dedicated to strengthening European–Sri Lankan economic relations and contributing to a prosperous, sustainable and inclusive economic future.

07.10.2026

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Delmege Building Products Expands Portfolio with New Air Conditioners, Switches and Sockets

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Mr. Kumudu Muthukumarana (Deputy General Manager – Delmege Building Products), Mr. Amrith Adhihetty (Director – Delmege Forsyth & Co. Ltd), Ms. Dinusha Bhaskaran (Managing Director – Vallibel One), Mr. Prasantha Senarath (Chief Executive Officer – Delmege Building Products), Mr. Charith Fernando (Category Head – Delmege Air Conditioners)

Delmege Building Products, a key business cluster of Delmege & Forsyth Co. Ltd., has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of Delmege Air Conditioners and a new range of switches and sockets.
The new products were officially launched on October 8, 2026, at a ceremony held at The Kingsbury Colombo, marking another step in the company’s efforts to develop a broader range of building and lifestyle solutions for Sri Lankan consumers.
The latest additions are part of Delmege Building Products’ strategy to strengthen its position as a one-stop destination by offering products covering multiple requirements across residential and commercial applications.
Speaking at the launch, Dinusha Bhaskaran, Managing Director of Vallibel One, said the expansion represents an important milestone in the company’s efforts to build a broader and more integrated offering for customers.
She said the introduction of air conditioners, switches and sockets forms an important part of the company’s ongoing portfolio development, while Delmege also remains focused on improving product accessibility and strengthening customer engagement across different segments and channels.
The new Delmege Air Conditioner range is available in 12,000, 18,000 and 24,000 BTU capacities and incorporates inverter technology aimed at delivering consistent cooling while supporting efficient energy consumption.
The air conditioners have been designed for demanding climatic conditions and feature Extreme Climate Cooling capability for temperatures of up to 55°C. A 30-second rapid cooling function is also included, while I FEEL intelligent temperature-sensing technology detects the temperature around the remote control to help improve user comfort.
Other features include Vector Precision Air Supply for optimized airflow, Gold Fin Technology for enhanced durability and corrosion protection, and intelligent Fuzzy Logic that adjusts operation according to cooling requirements.
The range also includes ECO Mode, Child Safety Lock, Auto Restart and GEN Mode, which is designed to support stable operation during periods of limited power availability.
Delmege is also offering a customer support package for the new air conditioners, including up to three metres of free installation, three complimentary services during the first year and a five-year warranty for the inverter compressor.
Alongside the air conditioners, the company has introduced a new range of Delmege switches and sockets, combining contemporary design with safety and durability.
The products are available in White, Gold and Black finishes and feature a Polycarbonate “Baby Skin” finish, glass-top switches and frameless sockets designed for modern interiors.
The switches and sockets are SLSI approved, while the 13A Double-Pole Sockets incorporate additional protection features for residential and commercial applications.
Prasantha Senarath, Chief Executive Officer of Delmege Building Products, said the latest products were developed to provide practical solutions addressing the everyday requirements of Sri Lankan consumers.
He said the company had focused on performance, durability, safety and value, while placing equal importance on installation, servicing and islandwide after-sales support.
The new products add to Delmege Building Products’ existing portfolio, which includes water heaters, water geysers, hot water pipes and fittings, fans, LED bulbs, water pumps and electrical accessories.
With the expanded portfolio and islandwide after-sales service, Delmege Building Products is seeking to further develop its presence in Sri Lanka’s building and lifestyle solutions market and strengthen its offering under the Delmege brand.

07.10.2026

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Siyapatha Finance Strengthens Climate Action Commitment with Independent GHG Verification

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Siyapatha Finance PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s leading non-bank financial institutions, has strengthened its commitment to climate action with the receipt of a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Verification Opinion from the Sri Lanka Climate Fund (Pvt) Ltd. (SLCF), following the independent verification of its 2025 organizational-level GHG statement.
The recognition marks an important milestone in Siyapatha Finance’s sustainability journey, reinforcing its commitment to credible emissions measurement, transparent environmental reporting and responsible business practices.
The Verification Opinion was presented at the Certificate Awarding Ceremony 2026, organized by the Sri Lanka Climate Fund (Pvt) Ltd. and held at the Main Auditorium of the Ministry of Environment on 24 September 2026. The ceremony brought together organizations that have undertaken GHG quantification and verification initiatives as part of their efforts to strengthen environmental performance and climate-related practices.
Siyapatha Finance’s organizational-level GHG statement was independently verified against the requirements of ISO 14064-1:2018 and the GHG Protocol, with the verification process conducted in accordance with ISO 14064-3:2019. The verification covers the company’s operationally controlled business activities, providing an independently assessed and credible representation of its reported greenhouse gas emissions.
The verification provides Siyapatha Finance with a robust foundation to systematically measure its environmental footprint, identify opportunities for emissions reduction and strengthen environmental performance across its operations. It also enhances the credibility and transparency of the company’s emissions reporting, supporting a more structured and accountable approach to managing its environmental impact.
As part of its broader sustainability agenda, Siyapatha Finance has progressively integrated environmental considerations into its operations and decision-making processes. Its initiatives include energy conservation, greenhouse gas emissions management, sustainable finance, environmental awareness and responsible resource consumption.
Commenting on the achievement, Siyapatha Finance stated that the measurement and independent verification of greenhouse gas emissions represent an important foundation for understanding its environmental impact, identifying opportunities for improvement and establishing meaningful climate-related targets.
The company remains committed to advancing responsible business practices across its operations while supporting customers and communities through sustainable financial solutions. The independently verified GHG statement represents another significant step in Siyapatha Finance’s ongoing sustainability journey, reinforcing its focus on accountability, measurable environmental performance and meaningful progress towards climate action.
Through continued efforts to embed sustainability into its operations and business practices, Siyapatha Finance aims to contribute to a more resilient and sustainable future while creating long-term value for its stakeholders.

07.10.20296

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Ceylon Chamber Opens New Mississippi Investment Opportunities for Sri Lankan Businesses

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has created new opportunities for Sri Lankan companies to explore investment, manufacturing, distribution and business expansion in the United States through a series of direct meetings with the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA).
The one-to-one business meetings brought together representatives of Sri Lankan companies and officials from the MDA, providing a platform for businesses to gain a deeper understanding of Mississippi’s investment environment and assess opportunities for establishing or expanding operations in the state.
Companies representing a range of industries participated in the discussions, including advanced manufacturing, agribusiness and food processing, energy, distribution and logistics.
The discussions focused on the international expansion plans of participating Sri Lankan businesses and the opportunities available in Mississippi. Areas discussed included the state’s established industry clusters, infrastructure facilities, workforce capabilities and the support available to international companies seeking to establish a presence in the United States.
The meetings also enabled Sri Lankan companies to explore potential pathways into the wider US market and gain a better understanding of the factors involved in setting up operations, manufacturing facilities or distribution networks in the country.
For participating Sri Lankan businesses, the engagement provided a direct opportunity to evaluate Mississippi as a potential destination for international expansion and compare the state’s investment environment with their own business requirements and growth strategies.
At the same time, the meetings allowed the Mississippi Development Authority to engage directly with Sri Lankan companies seeking international growth and identify areas where Mississippi could potentially support future investment and business development.
The initiative highlights the growing importance of international partnerships in helping Sri Lankan companies identify new markets, strengthen their global presence and explore opportunities beyond the domestic economy.
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce said it will continue to facilitate engagement between Sri Lankan businesses and international investment and trade promotion agencies, supporting companies as they evaluate new markets and pursue opportunities for overseas expansion.
Through such initiatives, Sri Lankan businesses can gain greater access to international networks and investment opportunities while strengthening commercial links between Sri Lanka and global markets.

08.10.2026

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Sri Lanka’s Consumer Has Changed Despite Recovery in Household Spending: BCG Report

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Boston Consulting Group (BCG), in collaboration with The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, launched its latest report, “The Changing Path to Purchase in Sri Lanka,” examining how consumer behaviour, spending patterns and purchasing decisions are evolving as Sri Lanka’s economy recovers.

Sri Lanka’s household consumption has recovered to a record level, but consumer behaviour has undergone significant changes following years of economic pressure, according to a new report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
The report, titled “The Changing Path to Purchase in Sri Lanka,” examines how consumers across the country discover, evaluate and purchase products and services in an economy that is gradually recovering.
The study, released six years after BCG’s earlier examination of Sri Lankan consumers in 2020, highlights significant changes in where spending power is concentrated, how households prioritise expenditure and the growing role of digital channels in influencing purchasing decisions.
According to the report, household consumption has reached approximately LKR 9 trillion in real terms and remains the largest component of Sri Lanka’s GDP. The middle class represents the largest consumption pool, accounting for around 70% of national spending, with rural Sri Lanka representing 56% of middle-class households.
At the same time, affluent households are increasingly concentrated in the Urban-West region. Although they represent only around 4% of all households, they account for approximately 11% of national consumption.
The report also found that Sri Lankan consumers are becoming more deliberate in their purchasing decisions. While more brands are entering consumers’ consideration sets than in 2020, fewer are emerging as a single preferred brand, suggesting that companies must work harder to establish and retain consumer preference.
Consumer spending intentions are also running ahead of expectations for income growth. Some 77% of consumers surveyed expect to spend more during the next six months, while only 38% expect their income to increase.
The report indicates that consumers expect to increase spending on essential categories, maintain expenditure on everyday products and postpone or reduce discretionary purchases in the short term.
Digital influence is also reshaping the path to purchase. Word of mouth remains the strongest influence, cited by 66% of consumers, but digital influence has increased significantly, reaching 51% compared with 32% in 2020.
Digital platforms are particularly influential for considered purchases, including leisure and higher-value products. YouTube and social media have emerged as leading digital channels for product and brand discovery.
Generative artificial intelligence is also beginning to enter the consumer journey. The report found that 55% of consumers are aware of generative AI, while 18% have already used it. Among those using the technology, around one in three are using it to research brands and products.

Anshuman Upadhyaya, Managing Director & Partner, BCG; Nishant Gupta, Managing Director & Senior Partner, BCG; Parul Bajaj, India Leader – Marketing, Sales & Pricing and Managing Director & Partner, BCG; and Devraj Bharati, Associate Director, BCG

Digital banking is another area showing strong consumer engagement. Around 25% of consumers use digital banking services, with digital payments emerging as the preferred method for routine transactions among users.
Nishant Gupta, Managing Director and Senior Partner at BCG, said the recovery in consumption does not mean that Sri Lankan households have returned to their pre-crisis behaviour.
He noted that essentials now account for a greater share of household spending, while families are making more deliberate decisions across individual categories. He also highlighted differences in spending power and demand across income groups and geographical areas.
BCG's Parul Bajaj, India Leader – Marketing, Sales & Pricing and Managing Director & Partner, said familiarity continues to help brands enter the consumer consideration set, but brands and channels increasingly need to demonstrate their value at every stage of the decision-making process.
She pointed to the growing influence of social media, YouTube and generative AI in determining which brands consumers consider, suggesting that businesses need to shift their marketing focus from simply achieving reach towards influencing consideration.
Shiran Fernando, Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, said the return of demand had taken a different form, making it increasingly important for businesses to understand where spending power is concentrated and how households are prioritising their expenditure.
The report identifies several structural changes that businesses will need to consider as they plan their next phase of growth. These include differences in demand across income groups and regions, greater prioritisation of household spending, increasingly digital product discovery and the need for brands to demonstrate value beyond price.
It also highlights the growing convergence between physical and digital channels throughout the consumer journey, with implications for businesses operating across consumer goods, retail and banking.
The findings suggest that while Sri Lanka’s consumer economy has recovered in terms of overall spending, the journey from discovering a product to choosing and purchasing it has become more complex, more digital and increasingly dependent on demonstrating relevance and value to individual consumers.

07.10.2026

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Mitsubishi Highlights Seven-Seat Safety as Sri Lanka’s Expressway Seat-Belt Rule Takes Effect

By Vipula Amarasinghe

With Sri Lanka introducing mandatory seat-belt use for every passenger travelling on expressways from September 19, 2026, Mitsubishi is highlighting the importance of choosing vehicles that provide dedicated safety features for every occupant.
The new regulation makes seat-belt use a legal requirement for passengers travelling on the country's expressways, bringing renewed attention to passenger safety, particularly for families travelling in larger groups.
Against this backdrop, Mitsubishi is promoting its seven-seater range comprising the Mitsubishi Xpander, Xpander Cross and the all-new Mitsubishi Destinator as options designed to accommodate seven passengers with individual seating and three-point ELR seat belts.
The three models are positioned as multi-purpose vehicles and SUVs suited to Sri Lankan families seeking a combination of passenger capacity, comfort and safety.
According to Mitsubishi, each of the seven seats in the lineup is equipped with a dedicated three-point ELR seat belt, allowing all occupants to travel with individual restraint systems while complying with the new expressway requirement.
The vehicles are also designed with practical features aimed at making travel easier for larger families. Wide-opening rear doors and one-touch tumble-fold second-row seats provide access to the third row, while the second and third rows can be folded flat when additional luggage capacity is required.
This flexibility allows the vehicles to be used for family holidays, business journeys and everyday transportation while accommodating different combinations of passengers and cargo.
Safety is also a key focus across Mitsubishi's seven-seat range. The vehicles are built around Mitsubishi's RISE, or Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution, body structure and incorporate a range of active and passive safety technologies.
Features include Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, rear-view cameras with parking sensors and ISOFIX child-seat anchors. Airbag configurations vary according to the model and variant, with selected versions offering side and curtain airbags.
The vehicles also offer ground clearance of up to 225mm, supporting stability and confidence across varying road conditions in Sri Lanka.
The Mitsubishi Xpander, Xpander Cross and Destinator are available through United Motors Lanka PLC's islandwide showroom network, including locations at Hyde Park Corner, Lipton, Nugegoda, Kurunegala, Ratnapura, Kandy and Matara.
The company also provides an extensive aftersales network to support Mitsubishi owners across the country.
As Sri Lankan families increasingly consider both passenger capacity and safety when selecting vehicles for longer journeys, Mitsubishi's seven-seat lineup is being positioned as a practical solution for those who want to travel together without leaving passengers behind.

07.10.2026

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Serendib Flour Mills Launches Master’s Club to Empower Sri Lanka’s Home Bakers

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Serendib Flour Mills (Pvt) Ltd. has launched the Serendib Flour Master’s Club, a new initiative aimed at supporting Sri Lanka’s growing community of home bakers and helping them transform their passion for baking into sustainable entrepreneurial opportunities.
The club was officially inaugurated on September 17, 2026, at Sheraton Colombo, bringing together home bakers, industry professionals, chefs and other special invitees for an event focused on learning, networking and entrepreneurship.
The initiative has been introduced as a dedicated platform where home bakers can access practical knowledge, expert guidance and opportunities to connect with others involved in the country's expanding home-baking sector.
Among those attending the launch were Ravindra Ranjith and Chef Shiroma Perera of the Colombo Academy of Hospitality Management, Chef Dhushanthi Madanayake, physiotherapist Nilakshi Kasilingam and Kawshalya Karunarathne of the Institute of Business Advancement.
Speaking at the launch, Serendib Flour Mills CEO Amitav Basak said the new club reflects the company's commitment to supporting the people who form the foundation of Sri Lanka's baking community.
He noted that home bakers are increasingly contributing to entrepreneurship, income generation and creativity, while the club is intended to provide them with the knowledge, guidance and community support required to develop their ventures.
The Serendib Flour Master’s Club will provide members with access to knowledge-sharing sessions, practical workshops, expert-led learning programmes and community activities. The programme will address not only baking techniques but also the business skills required to operate and expand a home-based baking enterprise.
Topics are expected to include product development, business management, marketing, packaging, food standards, certifications and other areas important to building a sustainable baking business.
The launch also provided an opportunity for home bakers at different stages of their entrepreneurial journeys to share experiences, exchange ideas and establish connections with fellow members and industry professionals.
Serendib Flour Mills sees the initiative as part of its broader commitment to contributing to Sri Lanka's baking ecosystem beyond its role as a flour supplier. With home baking creating new opportunities for entrepreneurship and supplementary income, the company believes that knowledge-sharing and community-based support can help more individuals move towards professionalising their businesses.
Through the Master’s Club, Serendib Flour Mills aims to establish a long-term platform that continuously supports the development of home bakers by connecting passion, knowledge and opportunity.
The initiative represents another step in the company's efforts to nurture talent and inspire entrepreneurship, with the vision of helping home bakers progress “from passion to profession” while continuing its wider purpose of “Nourishing the Nation.”

07.10.2026

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Wetlands: The Protectors We Keep Destroying

By Prashant Kumar Raut

There is a type of place that rarely makes the news. It is not as beautiful as a glacier or as famous as a rainforest. Many governments call it useless land, good only for building or farming. Yet these places quietly protect the water, food, and safety of more than a billion people. And they are disappearing faster than almost any other natural system on Earth.
You may know them as ponds, marshes, swamps, floodplains, or mangroves. The word for all of them is wetlands. A wetland is any place where water and land meet. Sometimes the water stays all year. Sometimes it dries up and comes back with the rains. They are everywhere. And they are in trouble.
Think of a wetland as a sponge. When heavy rain falls, it soaks up the water instead of letting it flood villages and cities. When the dry season comes, it slowly releases that water. That keeps rivers and wells from running dry.
The great rivers that feed millions of farms and cities start as snow and ice high in the mountains. When that snow and ice melts, the water runs down. On its way, it passes through thousands of these spongy places. Some are high in the mountains, some out on the plains below. They hold the water. They clean it. Then they let it out slowly, season by season.
Without them, rivers would swing wildly between too much water and too little. Farms would lose their steady supply. Cities would lose the groundwater they pump from the earth. And hundreds of millions of people would have no protection when the floods came.
Wetlands also clean water, and they do it for free. As the water slows down, dirt and waste settle to the bottom. The water that leaves is cleaner than the water that came in. Wetlands also store carbon, which helps slow global warming. They are home to fish, birds, and plants. And they feed some of the poorest communities on Earth, and give them work. When a wetland disappears, none of this moves somewhere else. It just ends.
Wetlands and mountains are connected in a way most people never see. As the planet warms, glaciers melt faster. For now, that means more snow and ice turning to water, and it collects in new lakes high up in the mountains. Many of these lakes are held back by nothing but loose piles of rock and mud. When those piles break apart, the water crashes down the valleys in sudden, violent floods. And they are breaking apart more often than ever before.
What stands in the way? Wetlands. Marshes, floodplains, and small lakes further down the river slow the water down, soaking up the rush before it reaches towns and farms. But here is the cruel twist. Those same floods destroy the wetlands that protect us. The shield is being washed away by the very threat it was guarding against.
Take the Ganges and the Brahmaputra rivers. They carry water from the Himalayas across some of the most densely populated land on Earth. Along the way, wetlands slow the water, filter it, and release it through dry months. In Bangladesh, the Sundarbans mangroves protect millions from storms and rising seas. But now, those defences are being battered by stronger cyclones, saltier water, and faster melting of the glaciers upstream.
Climate change also breaks the rhythm wetlands depend on. Many wetlands are not permanent lakes. They fill during the rainy season and shrink in the dry months. That rhythm has worked for thousands of years. Now it is breaking. Some years the rains come late, and wetlands never fill properly. Other years too much water comes too fast, and it rushes through before the wetland can clean and hold it. Rising heat dries out shallow pools completely.
But climate change is not the only problem. People also damage wetlands directly. Cities build over marshes. Farmers drain them. Factories dump waste into them. Roads and dams cut them off from the rivers that feed them. Climate change and human damage feed each other. A wetland already weakened by pollution or draining has far less strength to survive a drought or flood, the same way a sick person struggles to fight off a new infection.
The loss is hard to see because it happens slowly. Each generation grows up with a little less than the one before and assumes this is normal. Nobody notices the birds that stopped coming, the fish catch that got smaller, the wells that have to be dug deeper, not until the damage is done.
Some will say that we can solve this with technology. If wetlands disappear, we can build treatment plants, dams, and embankments instead. But that is like replacing your lungs with a machine. It might work in theory, but it is costly, complicated, and never quite as good.
Here is the heart of the problem. A wetland that stops a flood, refills the groundwater, or feeds a village produces nothing you can count in a nation's financial records. It makes no noise, sells no product, and shows up on no balance sheet. To a planner, it looks like empty land, a waste. So it gets drained, paved over, or built on. Only when the flood comes, the wells run dry, and the fish vanish, do people understand what they have lost. By then, bringing it back is slow, expensive, and often impossible.
The fight against climate change is often described as a battle we must win with new technology and huge engineering projects. But some of our best defences already exist. They are quiet, free, and have worked for us for thousands of years.
Protecting wetlands is not some romantic idea about saving nature. It is practical. It is about keeping water flowing, farms growing, and floods away from our homes. It is the cheapest insurance we have.
The question is simple. Will we keep treating these quiet protectors as worthless land until they are gone? Or will we finally see them for what they are: the thin, living line between a changing climate and the people least able to survive its shocks?
The water that keeps millions alive passes through these pools. If we lose them, we lose far more than land. We lose the thing that held the water back. We lose the thing that caught us when we fell. We lose our future.

05.10.2026

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National AI Awards 2026 Honour Sri Lanka’s Emerging AI Leaders and Innovators

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Eng. Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy; Dr. Mothilal De Silva, Chairman, SLT Group; and Mr. Riyaaz Rasheed, CEO, SLT-MOBITEL, pictured alongside the 64 winners recognised at the National AI Awards 2026, held as part of Sri Lanka AI Week 2026.

Sri Lanka’s artificial intelligence landscape reached a significant milestone with the conclusion of the inaugural National AI Awards 2026, which recognised innovators, leaders and organisations driving the country’s growing AI capabilities across a wide range of sectors.
The awards ceremony, held on September 30 at Monarch Imperial, marked the finale of Sri Lanka AI Week 2026, a week-long national initiative pioneered by the Ministry of Digital Economy and SLT-MOBITEL.
The inaugural awards formed part of Sri Lanka’s largest AI-focused event to date, which brought together five major programmes – the AI Hackathon, AI Leaders Night, AI Conference, AI Exhibition and National AI Awards – highlighting the expanding role of artificial intelligence in business, government, education and society.
The awards ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eng. Eranga Weeraratne as Chief Guest, together with Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy, Dr. Mothilal De Silva, Chairman of SLT Group, and Riyaaz Rasheed, CEO of SLT-MOBITEL. Policymakers, technology leaders, academics and AI innovators also participated in the event.
A total of 64 awards were presented, comprising 19 Gold Awards, 14 Silver Awards, 12 Bronze Awards and 18 Merit Awards.
Among the major honours was the Sri Lanka AI Transformation Leader of the Year Award, with the Gold Award presented to Chamira Prasad Jayasinghe, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Arimac.
The National AI Excellence Award for Best Overall AI Solution Across All Sectors was awarded to Emojot (Pvt) Ltd. for its Emojot UXI – Unified Experience Intelligence project.
The awards recognised AI applications across key sectors including agriculture, banking, finance and insurance, healthcare and life sciences, manufacturing, education and media.
Several emerging areas of artificial intelligence were also recognised, including AI startup and MSME innovation, agentic AI solutions, Sinhala and Tamil AI and localisation, university AI innovation and women’s leadership in artificial intelligence.
The programme also extended recognition to AI content creators producing educational and storytelling content, as well as work related to social impact, future technology, cultural heritage and tourism.
The winners were selected following an evaluation process conducted by an independent panel of 19 judges. Entries were assessed against criteria including innovation, quality, scalability and potential impact.
The National AI Awards 2026 is expected to provide further momentum to Sri Lanka’s ambitions to develop a stronger AI ecosystem, while highlighting the growing contribution of local companies, entrepreneurs, researchers, universities and technology professionals.
With AI rapidly becoming an important component of economic transformation, the inaugural awards have placed a national spotlight on the people and organisations developing practical AI solutions for Sri Lanka and the wider region.
The Ministry of Digital Economy and SLT-MOBITEL thanked applicants, judges, evaluators, sponsors, partners, media organisations and other stakeholders who contributed to the success of Sri Lanka AI Week 2026 and the National AI Awards.

05.10.2026

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Automobile Association of Ceylon Named FIA Region II Champion for Disaster Response and Road Safety Innovations

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) has achieved international recognition after being named one of the Region II (Asia-Pacific) Champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026, in recognition of two initiatives focused on emergency mobility coordination and road safety.
The recognition was announced at the FIA Asia-Pacific Congress in Boracay, Philippines, where AAC was honoured for its ‘AAC Mobility Lifeline’ initiative, launched in response to Cyclone Ditwah, and ‘Solar-Guard’, a solar-powered early-warning system designed to improve road safety in hazardous locations.
The FIA Innovation Challenge, organised by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), recognises innovative mobility projects developed by its member clubs across four global regions, with an emphasis on safer, more sustainable and accessible mobility solutions.
AAC Mobility Lifeline was activated during Cyclone Ditwah in November 2025, transforming the association’s 24-hour call centre into a national mobility coordination hub to assist motorists, rescue teams and people displaced by the disaster.
During the emergency, the association recorded a 200% increase in calls, as its team provided guidance on flooded roads, landslides and safe travel routes.
The operation involved 60 staff members, more than 135 volunteers and a fleet of 50 vehicles, supported by a nationwide network of over 160 accredited garages. The initiative highlighted the role of coordinated emergency services and local partnerships in supporting communities during natural disasters.
As part of its wider relief efforts, AAC has also contributed Rs. 25 million to the President’s Fund to support people affected by Cyclone Ditwah, in line with the Government’s Clean Sri Lanka policy.
The second recognised initiative, Solar-Guard, addresses road accidents associated with hazardous road conditions and poor visibility. Developed in collaboration with the Road Development Authority, the system uses solar-powered LED blinker lights to provide advance warnings to motorists approaching high-risk locations.
Designed to operate autonomously around the clock, Solar-Guard provides visual alerts without relying on the national electricity grid, supporting road safety while incorporating renewable energy.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem congratulated AAC and its President, Dhammika Attygalle, noting that the projects demonstrated the role of mobility organisations in supporting communities during emergencies and developing innovations that help save lives on roads.
Tim Shearman, Deputy President for Automobile Mobility and Tourism, highlighted the importance of local knowledge and partnerships in developing solutions that address the specific mobility challenges faced by road users.
FIA Region II President Augustus ‘Joe’ Ferreria also recognised AAC’s coordinated response to extreme weather emergencies, emphasising the contribution of its personnel and partner organisations.
AAC President Dhammika Attygalle said the association’s mobility network and dedicated team enabled it to support road users nationwide during disasters, while initiatives such as Solar-Guard were helping improve driver awareness and reduce road risks.
AAC joins the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) of Australia, a member of the Australian Automobile Association, as a Region II Champion of the 2026 challenge.
A global judging panel will select one overall winner from the regional champions, with the award scheduled to be presented during FIA General Assemblies week in Shanghai, China, in December 2026.
The recognition marks an important international milestone for Sri Lanka’s automobile and mobility sector, highlighting the contribution of locally developed initiatives to disaster response, road safety and sustainable mobility.

03.10.2026

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Slack Introduces Slack Code to Bring AI-Powered Software Development into Team Collaboration

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Slack has introduced Slack Code, a new collaborative development experience designed to bring software engineers, AI coding agents and other team members together in a shared workspace to build, review and deliver software.
The new feature reflects a shift in AI-assisted software development from individual coding sessions to a collaborative approach, allowing teams to work alongside AI agents directly within Slack.
As AI coding tools become increasingly integrated into software development, Slack Code aims to eliminate the separation between coding activities and team discussions by bringing conversations, development plans, code changes and project feedback into one environment.
At the centre of the experience are dedicated code channels created for individual coding sessions or projects. These channels provide a shared space where team members can follow development conversations, review proposed solutions, examine code differences and access live previews through dedicated tabs.
The platform also enables users to engage coding agents, including Claude Code, Devin, GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT and Vercel agents, by tagging them within code channels.
Once assigned a task, an AI agent can use the available project context, suggest solutions, generate code and respond to feedback from team members. Human participants remain involved in reviewing proposals and providing approvals before work is delivered.
Slack Code is designed to extend software development collaboration beyond engineering teams. Product managers, designers and non-technical colleagues can participate in discussions, contribute ideas and follow progress without relying on separate, isolated coding sessions.
This shared approach allows teams to maintain project context and visibility throughout the development process, helping reduce communication gaps between those responsible for planning, designing and building software.
Security is another component of the new experience. Slack Code operates within Slack’s existing security framework, permissions and administrative controls, while maintaining human involvement in important development decisions.
The platform supports coding agents from major technology providers, including Anthropic, Cognition, GitHub, OpenAI and Vercel, giving teams access to different AI-assisted development capabilities within their existing collaboration environment.
Available across Slack plans, Slack Code seeks to transform AI-assisted programming into a team-based activity, where people and AI agents contribute within a common workflow.
By combining communication, project context and coding activities, the introduction of Slack Code signals a move towards more connected software development, enabling organisations to coordinate AI-powered coding while keeping teams involved throughout the process.

03.10.2026

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patpat.lk Wins Bronze at SLIM DIGIS 2.6 for Search Marketing Excellence

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Naveen Marasinghe: Director/COO - Antyra Solutions, Archana Jothirajah: Senior Executive - Digital Marketing - Antyra Solutions, Sulani Wijebandara: Assistant Manager – Operations – patpat.lk, Amritha Allahakkoon: Head of Products & eCommerce – patpat.lk, Mohamed Rishaddeen: Assistant Manager – Digital Marketing – patpat.lk, Avishka Weerasinghe: Manager - Digital Marketing - Antyra Solution

Sri Lankan online marketplace patpat.lk has secured national recognition for its digital marketing efforts, winning a Bronze award in the Best SEO/SEM Campaign category at SLIM DIGIS 2.6, organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM).
The award, presented on October 2, 2026, recognises the platform’s search engine optimisation and search marketing strategy aimed at helping buyers and sellers connect more effectively through online listings.
The campaign was selected from more than 550 entries evaluated by 70 industry professionals, placing patpat.lk among the digital marketing initiatives recognised at the annual awards.
The achievement was delivered through a collaboration between patpat.lk and Antyra Solutions, its digital marketing and SEO agency partner. The partnership focused on improving the marketplace’s online visibility and ensuring users could find relevant products and services through search engines.
Operating across categories including vehicles, property, electronics, home and living, fashion and services, patpat.lk has made search visibility a central component of its digital growth strategy.
The campaign incorporated keyword research, search-intent analysis, technical improvements and optimisation of category and listing pages to align the platform with the needs of online users.
With thousands of listings regularly changing, maintaining search visibility requires continuous optimisation and an understanding of evolving customer behaviour. The strategy was designed to direct users towards relevant listings, whether they were searching for a particular vehicle, property type, household product or service.
Antyra Solutions contributed specialist expertise in search strategy, technical and onsite optimisation, performance measurement and ongoing campaign improvements.
Commenting on the achievement, Amritha Allahakkoon, Head of Product & eCommerce at patpat.lk, said the Bronze award recognised the company’s continued investment in SEO and improving search visibility.
She noted that the platform’s work across Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO) and Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO) is helping more customers discover relevant listings.
Naveen Marasinghe, COO of Antyra Solutions, said the partnership focused on strengthening patpat.lk’s digital visibility amid the rapid evolution of the digital landscape and the growing importance of AI-driven search.
He added that the recognition reflected the results achieved through the collaboration.
The SLIM DIGIS 2.6 award marks a milestone in patpat.lk’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its digital presence, improve online discovery and support connections between Sri Lankan buyers and sellers.

13.10.2026

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JEWELS 2026 to Bring Sri Lanka’s Gem and Jewellery Industry to the Global Stage

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Mr. Udaya Kumara - General Secretary, Gemmologists Association of Sri Lanka, Prof. S. P. Chaminda - Chairman, National Gem and Jewellery Authority, Mr. Shehan Daulagala -- Jewels Chairman/President Elect, Gemmologists Association of Sri Lanka, Mrs. Chathurangani Arthanayaka - President, Gemmologists Association of Sri Lanka, Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam - Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.

Sri Lanka’s gem and jewellery industry will have an opportunity to showcase its products, craftsmanship and business potential to international audiences at JEWELS 2026, the International Gem & Jewellery Exhibition and Competition, scheduled for December 4–6 at the Colombo Lotus Tower.
Organised by the Gemmologists Association of Sri Lanka (GASL) under the theme “From Sri Lanka to the World,” the exhibition is expected to bring together gem dealers, jewellers, designers, manufacturers, gemmologists, educators and emerging businesses, creating a platform for trade, networking and industry development.
JEWELS has a history spanning more than two decades, having first been introduced as a mineral show in 2002 before being rebranded in 2008. Since then, it has developed into an industry event combining commercial opportunities with education, craftsmanship, competition and professional development.
GASL President Mrs. Chathurangani Arthanayaka said the exhibition would connect Sri Lanka’s longstanding gem and jewellery heritage with the creativity and innovation of contemporary industry participants.
“Sri Lanka has an extraordinary gem and jewellery heritage. JEWELS 2026 brings that heritage together with the talent and innovation of today’s industry,” she said.
Mr. Shehan Daulagala, President-Elect of GASL and Chairman of JEWELS 2026, highlighted the commercial opportunities available to participating businesses.
“JEWELS 2026 gives businesses an opportunity to showcase their strengths, connect with new markets and create meaningful industry relationships,” he said.
A key feature of the exhibition will be the JEWELS Competition, which aims to place education and professional excellence alongside commercial activity, while recognising talent and creativity within the sector.
The organisers are encouraging businesses throughout the gem and jewellery value chain to reserve exhibition stalls early, enabling them to increase their industry visibility, connect with potential customers and establish relationships with local and international market participants.
With its combination of exhibition, competition and industry engagement, JEWELS 2026 is expected to provide a platform for promoting Sri Lankan gemstones, jewellery design and craftsmanship while creating new opportunities for business development.
Exhibitor registration and further information are available through www.jewelssrilanka.lk or via WhatsApp on 076 699 3022.

11.10.2026

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Emirates Invites Sri Lankan Travellers to Discover Dubai This Winter

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Emirates has launched a multi-market campaign inviting travellers to experience Dubai during the city's busy winter season, combining complimentary attraction passes, citywide discounts and flexible travel options.
The campaign coincides with Dubai’s winter calendar of festivals, entertainment and international events and is aimed at travellers looking to explore the city during the cooler months.
Under the promotion, customers booking eligible return tickets to Dubai with Emirates can receive complimentary passes worth AED 535 covering three popular attractions. The package includes access to Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, Lost World Aquarium and the Dubai City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour.
The attraction package allows visitors to experience some of Dubai’s major leisure and sightseeing offerings, from water-based activities and marine life encounters to city tours covering landmarks including Burj Khalifa and the historic Al Fahidi district.
Travellers can also make use of My Emirates Pass, which provides access to discounts and special offers at hundreds of participating restaurants, retail outlets, leisure venues and other locations across Dubai. Customers can access the benefits by presenting their Emirates boarding pass and valid identification at participating outlets.
Another feature of the campaign is Dubai Experience, Emirates’ platform through which travellers can create personalised itineraries and book hotels, dining experiences, attractions, tours and other activities at preferential rates.
Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates, said Dubai offers a wide range of experiences covering leisure, dining, shopping and entertainment, and that the campaign was designed to provide travellers with additional value during their visit.
Emirates is also highlighting the flexibility available to customers travelling to Dubai. Eligible travellers can benefit from unlimited free date changes across all cabin classes, the option to hold a fare without charge for 24 hours and reduced refund fees, subject to applicable conditions.
The offer applies to eligible return tickets to Dubai purchased between 21 September and 11 October 2026, for travel between 24 September and 13 December 2026.
Emirates Skywards members can also access additional benefits, including free Wi-Fi on Emirates flights across all membership tiers. Members can earn and redeem Skywards Miles through a range of shopping, dining and travel experiences in Dubai and elsewhere in the UAE.
At Dubai International Airport, members can redeem Miles at participating Dubai Duty Free outlets, the Emirates Official Store and marhaba Airport Meet & Greet services. Through Skywards Everyday, members can also earn or redeem Miles at participating retail, dining and other services across the UAE.
Emirates has maintained its presence in Sri Lanka since April 1986. The airline currently operates three non-stop daily flights between Colombo and Dubai, in addition to a daily service via Male, using a combination of Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 aircraft.
The winter campaign adds a range of travel experiences and benefits for Sri Lankan passengers and other international travellers planning a Dubai visit during the 2026 winter season.

10.10.2026

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Effie Awards Sri Lanka 2026 Calls for Jury Nominations

Advertising agencies are invited to nominate a representative to serve on the judging panel of the Effie Awards Sri Lanka 2026, with nominations open until 20 October 2026.
Nominees must be employees of the nominating advertising firm and hold a senior management position, such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Creative Officer, Head of Client Servicing, Head of Planning or an equivalent role. Candidates must also have at least 12 years of experience in the advertising industry.
To qualify, nominees must belong to an agency that has been selected as a finalist at a local or international Effie Awards competition within the past six years. Foreign nationals nominated for the panel must be employed by a local agency or company.
Each nominating advertising agency is responsible for submitting a detailed, well-written profile of its proposed judge, demonstrating the candidate’s suitability for the panel. All nominations will be reviewed. However, as the selection process must ensure balanced juries, not every nominee will receive an invitation to participate.
Nominations must be submitted on or before 20 October 2026 to effiejury@slim.lk. Only nominations sent to this email address will be accepted.

10.10.2026

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Dijital Team and WinSYS City University Join Hands to Develop Industry-Ready Sri Lankan Tech Talent

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Dijital Team has entered into a two-year strategic partnership with WinSYS City University to strengthen technical skills, professional certifications and international career opportunities for Sri Lankan technology professionals.
The partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), was officially launched on 9 September 2026 at Dijital Team’s office premises in Colombo.
The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between technical education and actual industry requirements by creating structured learning and career pathways for engineers seeking opportunities in Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT service organisations.
Combining Dijital Team’s international employer network and understanding of industry requirements across Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom with WinSYS City University’s 21-year technical training heritage, the initiative is designed to develop professionals with practical knowledge and internationally relevant qualifications.
The joint programmes will focus on key technology areas, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, automation, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. They will also provide opportunities for professional certification and hands-on learning, helping participants strengthen their capabilities for evolving industry demands.
Peter Ward, Managing Director of Dijital Team, said the partnership represents an important investment in developing the contemporary technical skills required by MSPs and IT service providers.
He noted that combining real-world industry insights with structured education and certification pathways would enable team members to enhance their professional capabilities and deliver greater value to customers.
WinSYS Chairman Ziyam Abdeen said the collaboration brings together the technical training expertise of WinSYS and Dijital Team’s direct understanding of international industry expectations.
He added that the partnership would help create stronger pathways for students and emerging professionals to progress from education and certification into practical technology careers.
Planned initiatives include training and certification opportunities covering Cisco, Microsoft, Azure, AWS and Fortinet technologies, alongside career-readiness programmes, recruitment days and a cybersecurity challenge.
The initiative is also expected to support the development of a skilled talent pipeline for technology employers in Australia, New Zealand and the UK, while expanding international career opportunities for promising Sri Lankan engineers.
For Dijital Team, the agreement reinforces its commitment to continuous employee development, professional training and certification. For WinSYS City University, it strengthens the connection between technical education and the practical competencies sought by employers.
Through the two-year collaboration, both organisations aim to contribute to the development of a skilled, internationally competitive technology workforce in Sri Lanka, equipped to respond to the changing demands of the global IT industry.

01.10.2026

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HMD and Dialog Axiata Introduce Affordable 4G Feature Phones in Sri Lanka

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Vivek Khandelwal, General Manager, Emerging Asia, HMD; Gayan Wijethilaka, Country Head for Sri Lanka, Nepal and Singapore, HMD and Lim Li San, Group Chief Operating Officer, Dialog Axiata PLC;

HMD (Human Mobile Devices) has partnered with Dialog Axiata PLC to introduce a new range of affordable 4G feature phones in Sri Lanka, expanding access to modern mobile connectivity through the launch of the HMD 101 4G and HMD 102 4G models.
The partnership brings together HMD’s mobile device expertise and Dialog’s nationwide network coverage, supporting Sri Lanka’s gradual transition from legacy 2G technology to 4G LTE while offering consumers improved call quality, reliable connectivity and practical everyday features at affordable prices.
The new devices are designed for customers seeking dependable communication without the complexity or higher cost of smartphones. Feature phones continue to serve an important role in Sri Lanka, both as primary communication devices for households and as secondary phones for professionals, travellers and users seeking a simpler digital experience.
Both models support 4G VoLTE technology, delivering high-definition voice calling, alongside USB Type-C charging, IP52 splash resistance and extended battery performance.
The HMD 101 4G features a 2-inch display, dual SIM 4G connectivity, an MP3 player, wireless FM radio and a dual LED torch. Its practical design focuses on everyday communication and essential mobile functions.
The HMD 102 4G offers similar core features, complemented by a rounded design, rear camera with LED flash, automatic call recording and additional daily utilities.
Both handsets are equipped with removable 1,000 mAh batteries, offering up to eight hours of talk time and up to 625 hours of standby time.
Commenting on the launch, Vivek Khandelwal, General Manager, Emerging Asia at HMD, said the company is committed to maintaining a long-term presence in Sri Lanka by offering devices across different price segments. He noted that the partnership with Dialog would help make the new phones accessible to customers throughout the country.
Gayan Wijethilaka, Country Head for Sri Lanka, Nepal and Singapore at HMD, said the devices retain the simplicity and durability traditionally associated with feature phones while introducing the benefits of 4G connectivity and clearer voice calls.
Lim Li San, Group Chief Operating Officer of Dialog Axiata PLC, said the collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to making improved connectivity affordable and accessible to people from all walks of life as Sri Lanka moves towards newer network technologies.
The HMD 101 4G and HMD 102 4G are priced at Rs. 8,900 each and are available islandwide through Dialog Customer Care Centres. Both models come with a one-year replacement guarantee.
HMD and Nokia devices are imported and distributed in Sri Lanka by Softlogic Communications.

01.09.2026

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Wibmo Wins Chartis Disruptor Award for Agentic Risk Intelligence

Wibmo, a PayU company and full-stack PayTech provider, has received the Chartis RiskTech100® Disruptor Award for Workflow, Agentic AI and Low-Code/No-Code innovation, recognising its work in transforming fraud and risk management through artificial intelligence and configurable workflows.
The award has been introduced under the new Disruptor categories for the Chartis RiskTech100® 2027 and recognises companies developing technologies that are changing business processes across the risk technology sector.
Wibmo was recognised for its work in agentic fraud and risk intelligence, including its Wibmo Agentic Risk Intelligence Assistant (ARIA), alongside its broader fraud and risk management ecosystem.
ARIA is designed to assist teams working across fraud, anti-money laundering (AML), risk analysis and dispute operations. The system uses specialised AI agents to collect relevant information, summarise investigations, identify patterns, prepare evidence-supported findings and recommend potential next steps.
According to Wibmo, the solution follows a human-led operating model, with AI agents supporting investigation and preparation while authorised personnel retain responsibility for final decisions.
The platform incorporates governance mechanisms including maker-checker controls, evidence-linked recommendations, audit-ready decision trails and simulation-gated actions for selected use cases.
Wibmo’s broader fraud and risk management platform connects different stages of risk operations, from gathering transaction, customer and merchant signals through to preparing findings, recommending actions and supporting remediation.
The company said this approach is designed to help risk teams move away from fragmented and heavily manual processes towards more structured, explainable and scalable case management.
Another component of the platform is its configurable workflow capability. Wibmo provides tools including do-it-yourself rules, case and queue management, BPMN-based workflows, role-based controls and low-code/no-code configuration.
These capabilities allow financial institutions and other clients to modify risk strategies, business processes and investigation workflows as their requirements change, without requiring extensive technical intervention for every adjustment.
Philip Mackenzie, Research Principal at Chartis, said Wibmo had continued to expand its position in the payments risk landscape, building on its strengths in authentication and payment security.
He also noted the company’s investments in risk-based authentication and agentic AI, alongside its expanding anti-fraud capabilities, in relation to its recognition in the new Disruptor category and its award for Regional Leadership and Excellence in South Asia.
Shailesh Paul, CEO of Wibmo, said the recognition reflects the company’s focus on developing intelligent, configurable and governed risk-management workflows.
He said Wibmo’s ARIA solution brings together agentic intelligence, explainable recommendations, configurable controls and human decision-making to support financial institutions while maintaining accountability and transparency.
The latest recognition adds to Wibmo’s focus on supporting banks, fintech companies, issuers, acquirers and payment aggregators in strengthening fraud and risk operations across payment environments.
By combining AI-supported investigation, configurable workflows and governed automation, Wibmo is seeking to support the continued transformation of fraud and risk management across the global payments ecosystem.

30.09.2026

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Port City Colombo Builds Investment Momentum Across UAE, Oman and Qatar

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Port City Colombo Delegation Meeting with H.E. Pankaj Khimji, Royal Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and H.E. Ghalib bin Saeed bin Majid Al Maamari, Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry

Port City Colombo has stepped up its efforts to attract investment from the Gulf, completing a seven-day roadshow across the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar aimed at strengthening regional partnerships and promoting opportunities within its Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
The roadshow, held in September 2026, followed a series of engagements with Gulf investors earlier this year and included an investor forum in Abu Dhabi as well as high-level meetings with business and government representatives in Muscat and Doha.
The main investor forum was held at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi on September 25, bringing together UAE business leaders, investors and institutional stakeholders to discuss Sri Lanka’s investment proposition and opportunities available within Port City Colombo’s SEZ.
The forum was hosted by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the UAE in collaboration with Port City Colombo.
Opening the event, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Prof. Arusha Cooray, highlighted the growing economic relationship between Sri Lanka and the UAE and the potential role of Port City Colombo in attracting Gulf investment.
Chief Guest Feryal Ahmadi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of DMCC, discussed changing global trade patterns and the growing importance of free trade zones as business connectors between emerging markets.
The discussions also focused on Port City Colombo’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean and its potential to serve as a platform connecting businesses in South Asia with markets in the Middle East, Asia and beyond.
Harsha Amarasekera PC, Chairman of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, said Sri Lanka and the UAE share strategic geographic advantages that can provide a foundation for closer investment cooperation.
Revan Wickramasuriya, Director General of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, provided an update on investment activity at Port City Colombo and outlined features of its regulatory framework aimed at facilitating international investors.
These include a single-window facilitation system, a foreign-currency designated operating environment, investor protection mechanisms and a Sharia-compliant finance framework.
The Abu Dhabi engagement followed meetings in Muscat with senior representatives of Khazaen Economic City, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion.
The Port City Colombo delegation met Eng. Salim bin Suleiman Al Thuhli, Chief Executive Officer of Khazaen Economic City; H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and H.E. Pankaj Khimji, Royal Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and Director of Khimji Ramdas.
Discussions in Oman included bilateral trade and investment opportunities, the development of an Oman–South Asia investment and trade corridor, and opportunities for Omani businesses and institutions to establish a presence within Port City Colombo’s SEZ.
The engagement builds on an investor forum held in Muscat in June 2026 and a reciprocal Omani delegation visit to Port City Colombo in August.
The roadshow concluded in Doha with a meeting with H.E. Mohamed bin Ahmed bin Twar, First Vice Chairman of the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The meeting was facilitated by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Qatar and led by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Sithara Khan.
The delegation also met senior Embassy officials and representatives of the Qatar–Sri Lanka Business Council, Sri Lanka Coordinating Committee and Sri Lanka Business and Professional Council.
Xiong Hongfeng, Managing Director of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd., said the level of engagement across Muscat, Abu Dhabi and Doha demonstrated increasing recognition of Port City Colombo as a platform for Gulf businesses seeking access to South Asian markets.
The company said it will continue working to translate the discussions held during the Gulf roadshow into investment partnerships and deeper commercial relationships.
The latest engagements form part of Port City Colombo’s broader strategy to position the SEZ as an international business and investment hub while strengthening Sri Lanka’s economic and commercial links with the Gulf region.

30.09.2026

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Activ8 Asia Secures Third Consecutive Great Place To Work Certification

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Activ8 Asia PVT LTD has secured its third consecutive Great Place To Work® Certification™, reinforcing the company’s continued focus on workplace culture, employee development and adapting to the changing demands of the business environment.
The latest certification covers the period from April 2026 to April 2027 and comes alongside several workplace recognitions received by the company during 2026.
Activ8 Asia has also been recognised among the Great Workplaces for Young Talent in Sri Lanka for 2026 and the Best Workplaces™ in Technology in Sri Lanka for 2026.
The recognition for young talent reflects the organisation’s focus on creating opportunities for younger employees to develop their skills, contribute ideas and take on new responsibilities. Its recognition within the technology category also highlights the company’s efforts to understand and respond to the changing role of technology in the workplace.
Activ8 Asia participated in the Best Workplaces™ in Technology event held on June 26 under the theme “The AI Workplace Shift”. The event brought together business leaders and organisations to examine how artificial intelligence is influencing workplace roles, business operations and the future of work.
The company also participated in the Great Place To Work® Regional Conference 2026, held at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, on September 10. The conference, themed “The People Algorithm: Where Leadership, Culture & AI Intersect”, explored the relationship between leadership, organisational culture and artificial intelligence as workplaces continue to evolve.
Wazeel Nixzar, Managing Director of Activ8 Asia, said the third consecutive certification reflects the workplace culture being developed collectively within the organisation.
He noted that the 2026 milestones are particularly significant as they recognise the company’s people, young talent and its ability to adapt to a changing workplace environment.
Activ8 Asia said its workplace culture is shaped through collaboration, learning, employee engagement and opportunities for people to develop their capabilities while contributing to the organisation’s growth.
The company is also continuing to examine the impact of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies on the future workplace. As businesses increasingly integrate technology into their operations, Activ8 Asia is focusing on the relationship between people, workplace culture and technology.
Activ8 Asia PVT LTD provides business process outsourcing and business solutions across areas including customer support, back-office operations, telemarketing, HR outsourcing, IT services and digital marketing.
With its latest certification and multiple workplace recognitions in 2026, the company said it will continue to focus on employee experience, emerging talent and workplace practices aligned with the changing needs of its workforce and industry.

30.09.2026

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Siyapatha Finance Extends Colombo Footprint with New Thalawathugoda Branch

Homegrown finance company Siyapatha Finance PLC successfully unveiled its 68th branch in Thalawathugoda, Colombo District, further expanding the Company's presence in the Western Province. Located in one of the capital's fastest-growing residential suburbs, close to the administrative hub at Battaramulla, the latest branch offers convenient and wider access to tailored, customer-centric financial solutions.
The branch was declared open by Siyapatha Finance PLC Directors Mr. Jayanath Gunawardhana and Ms. Shriyani Ranathunga, together with Siyapatha Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana, in the presence of Chief Operating Officer (COO) Mr. Rajeev De Silva, and Mr.Methuka Malhiru of Pannipitiya Dharmapala Vidyalaya, (Recipient of the company’s “Siyapatha Shilpaloka” recognition) along with Senior Management and staff members. Also present were Grama Niladhari Mr. Gamage Ruwanmini, Trade Association President Mr. Samptha Gurusinghe, representatives of the government and private banks and insurance companies, and well-wishers.
Speaking at the ceremony, Siyapatha Finance PLC CEO Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana remarked: "We are pleased to bring Siyapatha Finance closer to the people of Thalawathugoda. This is a suburb that has grown quickly over the past decade, with a rising number of salaried households, professionals and small businesses whose financial needs are becoming more sophisticated. As always, our goal is to make a real difference in the standard of living of every community we serve, and we look forward to building lasting relationships with our customers here."
With a comprehensive product portfolio catering to the ever-evolving financial needs of entrepreneurs, small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and ambitious individuals, the Thalawathugoda branch offers a range of services including leasing, fixed deposits, savings, gold financing, business loans, personal loans, fast draft, factoring, and Smart Pay, the Company's automated bill payment facility.
Siyapatha Finance PLC, the largest fully owned subsidiary of the Sampath Bank Group, boasts an island wide network of 68 branches, ensuring its customers are provided with the best-in-service delivery standards. The Company has secured a National Long-Term Rating of 'A(lka)' with a Stable Outlook by Fitch Ratings, reflecting solid financial standing and promising growth trajectory. Over the past 21 years, Siyapatha Finance PLC has contributed to the development of small and medium entrepreneurial efforts as well as the fulfillment of individual financial needs across the island.

30.09.2026

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Keells Celebrates 35 Years with 150 Stores Across Sri Lanka

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Keells is marking 35 years of operations in Sri Lanka as the supermarket chain surpasses the 150-outlet milestone, reflecting a journey that has extended beyond retail to include farmers, employees, consumers and communities across the country.
The company opened its first store at Liberty Plaza, Colombo, in 1991 and has since expanded its presence across Sri Lanka while adapting its products, services and customer experiences to changing consumer needs.
Today, Keells operates 150 stores and has developed an integrated retail ecosystem connecting customers with fresh produce, prepared foods, household products and digital services. Its Nexus loyalty ecosystem has grown to 2.9 million members, providing customers with personalised offers, promotions and rewards through an increasingly digital and omnichannel experience.
A significant part of Keells' operations is its direct relationship with the agricultural sector. The company works with more than 4,000 active farmers through 10 collection centres, creating a direct sourcing network linking farming communities with consumers.
Through initiatives such as Govi Diriya, Keells has supported farmers with training in climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable cultivation and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification. More than 2,000 farmers, including female agripreneurs, have received training covering areas such as financial literacy, organic farming, sustainable cultivation and climate resilience.
The company has also introduced model farms and agricultural technologies aimed at improving productivity and reducing post-harvest losses.
Its 35-year journey has also included a focus on employee development. With a workforce of more than 6,500 employees, Keells provides training, career development and wellbeing programmes. Partnerships such as NAITA certification provide employees with opportunities to gain recognised qualifications and strengthen their career prospects.
Initiatives including She Rises support women's leadership and career development, while Peace Pod focuses on mental and social wellbeing. The Financial Wellbeing Programme provides employees with practical guidance on managing personal finances.
Keells has also extended its community initiatives beyond its retail operations. Its pre-school meal programme has provided more than 538,000 meals to over 4,500 children at 116 pre-schools.
Through the Skill Into Progress (SKIP) programme, conducted by the John Keells Foundation and The Rainbow Institute, 1,322 students across 10 locations have been supported, with 280 participants completing the programme and receiving certification.
As Keells moves beyond its 150-store milestone, the company says its focus remains on creating better everyday experiences while supporting farmers, employees, customers and communities.
The 35-year milestone therefore represents not only the expansion of a supermarket network, but also the development of a wider ecosystem connecting food, agriculture, employment, technology and community initiatives across Sri Lanka.
Keells is now looking towards the next stage of its journey with an emphasis on encouraging Sri Lankans to discover new possibilities, embrace fresh experiences and find ways to make everyday life better.

30.09.2026

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Sri Lankan-Born Rosh Kumarasinghe Makes Fashion Week History in Milan

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Sri Lankan-born makeup artist and entrepreneur Rosh Kumarasinghe has reached a major milestone on the international fashion stage, becoming the first South Asian to serve as a Makeup Director on the official schedule of Milan Fashion Week.
The achievement also marks a significant moment for her Australian beauty brand, Beauty by Rosh, which has become the first Australian makeup brand to sponsor main-schedule shows at Milan Fashion Week as a makeup partner.
Kumarasinghe worked with Italian fashion labels Marco Rambaldi and Casa Preti during the latest Milan Fashion Week, leading the makeup teams backstage and helping translate each designer's creative vision into the final runway looks.
Her role at Milan follows another milestone earlier this year, when she became the first South Asian entrepreneur to have a beauty brand sponsor a show at London Fashion Week. With her participation in both London and Milan, Kumarasinghe is expanding the international presence of an independent Australian beauty brand while creating greater visibility for South Asian talent within the global fashion industry.
Kumarasinghe was raised in Sri Lanka before moving to Thailand a decade ago and later relocating to Australia. Her journey into the international beauty industry has been built around professional makeup artistry, education and entrepreneurship.
Beauty by Rosh, established six years ago, is an Australian-made, vegan and cruelty-free makeup brand developed with a focus on diverse skin tones, including brown skin. Before establishing the brand, Kumarasinghe developed her reputation as a makeup educator through the Masterclass World Series, which has reportedly reached more than 1,000 women.
At Milan Fashion Week, her responsibilities extended well beyond creating makeup looks. She assembled and directed teams of makeup artists, selected according to their portfolios, and coordinated their work under the intense time pressures of runway production.
For the Marco Rambaldi show on September 26 and the Casa Preti show on September 27, Beauty by Rosh supplied the makeup products as well as backstage photography and video production.
Marco Rambaldi, based in Bologna, is recognised for its approach to inclusion, upcycling and Italian craftsmanship. The label has been part of Milan Fashion Week for around 12 years, following its debut in 2014 after winning the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana's Next Generation competition.
Casa Preti, founded in Palermo in 2017 by creative director Mattia Piazza, is a genderless fashion label known for its minimalist tailoring and collaborations with artists.
Kumarasinghe's achievement places her alongside a small group of internationally recognised makeup professionals who have worked on major Milan Fashion Week shows. Her entry into this highly competitive environment represents a significant step for an independent beauty entrepreneur from Australia and a woman of South Asian origin.
For Kumarasinghe, however, the achievement is not simply about becoming the first.
" I grew up in Sri Lanka, and I moved to Australia only when I was 30 years old. Milan is one of the biggest fashion weeks in the world and probably one of the hardest rooms in beauty to enter, and it’s an absolute honour to be welcomed in," she said.
"I am proud to be the first, and I want to celebrate that in the hope of encouraging others to follow in the footsteps and tell every little girl that their dreams are never too big and it’s never too late to achieve your dreams."
Her journey from Sri Lanka to the international fashion capitals of London and Milan highlights the growing global opportunities for South Asian creative professionals and entrepreneurs, while placing an Australian beauty brand founded by a Sri Lankan-born entrepreneur on one of the world's most prominent fashion platforms.

28.09.2026

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Spa Ceylon Brings Experts Together at Sleep Conference 2026

By R. S. Kanthi

Spa Ceylon brought together medical professionals, wellness experts and industry leaders at the Sleep Conference 2026, held on September 23 at the Oak Room of Cinnamon Grand Colombo.
Presented by Spa Ceylon in partnership with the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) and powered by Comfort World, the conference was held under the theme “Unlocking the Power of Sleep”, focusing on the importance of quality sleep and its connection to health, wellbeing and daily performance.
The programme included the SLMA Sleep Symposium, which examined the science behind sleep and its impact on memory, concentration, recovery and hormones. Discussions also addressed sleep disorders and common misconceptions surrounding sleep.
The symposium featured contributions from Dr. Ruwanthi Jayasekara, Dr. S. Rishikesavan, Dr. Arunie Malwatta and Dr. Dilesha Wadasinghe, who shared medical perspectives on different aspects of sleep and its role in overall wellbeing.
The conference also featured a Lifestyle & Wellness segment led by Shalin Balasuriya, Co-Founder of Spa Ceylon, Wellness Expert and Certified Sleep Coach, together with Naushad Mohideen, Chairman of Comfort World. The session explored practical approaches to improving sleep, including everyday habits, sleep hygiene and creating an environment that supports better rest.
Another key discussion focused on the emerging concept of sleep tourism and Sri Lanka’s potential within the global wellness sector. A fireside conversation between Shalin Balasuriya and Dileep Mudadeniya, Senior Vice President, Global Alliances & Partnerships and Head of Corporate Affairs at John Keells, examined opportunities for Sri Lanka to build on its strengths in wellness, Ayurveda, hospitality and experiential travel.
The conference also highlighted Spa Ceylon’s focus on sleep wellness through its internationally award-winning Sleep Intense range. Featuring Ylang Ylang, Lavender and Patchouli, the range is designed around a nightly wind-down ritual.
The Sleep Conference 2026 brought together medical knowledge, lifestyle practices and wellness perspectives, highlighting the growing importance of sleep as part of a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

25.09.2026

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Renault Strengthens Sri Lankan Return with New Experience Centre at Majestic City

By R. S. Kanthi

Renault has expanded its renewed presence in Sri Lanka with the opening of a new Renault Experience Centre at Majestic City in Colombo, giving customers the opportunity to explore the brand’s latest vehicle range and experience the models through test drives.
The new centre, located in the lobby of Majestic City, was officially opened by Jawahar Ganesh, Group Managing Director of Associated Motorways (Private) Limited (AMW), together with Prasanna de Silva, Director – Sales, AMW. The opening was attended by AMW management and staff, customers, members of the media and other invited guests.
The Renault Experience Centre currently showcases three models being introduced to the Sri Lankan market – the Renault Kwid, Renault Kiger and Renault Triber. Visitors can view the vehicles, learn more about their features and specifications, and arrange test drives at the location.
One of the key advantages being offered to customers is the availability of Renault vehicles in Sri Lanka. According to AMW, stocks are already available, reducing the lengthy waiting periods that customers can sometimes face when vehicles need to be brought into the country.
Once the required documentation and registration procedures are completed, customers could take delivery of their selected Renault vehicle in as little as one day, providing a faster purchasing and delivery experience.
Renault customers will also receive a three-year manufacturer warranty, while dedicated Renault aftersales facilities will provide servicing and support throughout the ownership period.
Speaking at the opening, Jawahar Ganesh said AMW was pleased to welcome Renault back to Sri Lanka and described the Experience Centre as an opportunity for customers to discover the brand and its vehicle range firsthand.
He highlighted Renault’s international heritage, innovation and automotive design, while noting that AMW’s local automotive experience and established customer network would support the brand’s renewed operations in Sri Lanka.
The Renault Experience Centre at Majestic City will be open seven days a week from 9.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m., allowing customers to visit and explore the vehicles at a convenient time.
Founded in France in 1898, Renault has more than 125 years of automotive heritage and has developed a global presence through its focus on engineering, innovation and vehicle design. The company is recognised as France’s leading automotive brand.
Renault’s return to Sri Lanka is being spearheaded by AMW, which has more than seven decades of experience in the country’s mobility and automotive sector.
The opening of the Majestic City Experience Centre is expected to be the first step in a wider programme of Renault activities planned across Sri Lanka. The company and AMW are expected to expand customer engagement and strengthen the brand’s market presence in the coming months.

25.09.2026

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41 Wins: Digibrush Emerges as Most Awarded Agency at SLIM Digis 2.6, the Event’s Most Competitive Edition to Date

Digibrush Productions made history at SLIM Digis 2.6, emerging as the Most Awarded Agency with 41 awards, the largest haul by any agency in the competition’s history, surpassing its own previous record.

The achievement came at the biggest edition of SLIM Digis to date, which attracted more than 550 entries, was evaluated by a panel of 70+ industry experts, and welcomed international participation for the first time.
Digibrush’s tally comprised 3 Golds, 12 Silvers, 20 Bronzes and 6 Merits, with wins spanning multiple brands and digital disciplines. The depth of the performance was particularly evident in categories such as Agile Marketing, where Digibrush secured Gold, Silver and Bronze, placing work across all three medal levels within a single category.
For the agency, the 41 wins represent something bigger than a single successful awards night- consistency.

Hisham Zulfiqar and Fazaal Naufer, Co-founders of Digibrush, said in a joint statement:
“Consistency isn’t about one big night. It’s about showing up year after year and continuing to raise your own bar. Breaking our own record with 41 awards makes us incredibly proud, but records like these aren’t built by agencies alone.

They are built by brands and the people behind them who trust their agency partners, back their ideas and give them the freedom to push boundaries. We’ve been fortunate to have clients who empower us to do exactly that, and an incredible team that keeps finding ways to turn those opportunities into work that delivers. These 41 awards belong to all of them.”

The achievement continues a strong period of recognition for the Sri Lankan-grown independent agency. Earlier this month, Digibrush was ranked No. 5 among Asia-Pacific’s Most Effective Independent Agency Offices and No. 24 globally in the 2025 Effie Index, placing it among the world’s Top 25 independent agency offices. The Index was compiled from more than 5,700 winners and finalists across over 50 Effie competitions spanning 130 markets.
Together, these recognitions reinforce the story Digibrush has been building over the years, one defined not simply by winning, but by consistently creating work where creativity delivers measurable impact.

Digibrush is one of Sri Lanka’s most recognised independent digital marketing agencies, founded by Hisham Zulfiqar and Fazaal Naufer. Built around the intersection of creativity, technology and measurable business impact, the agency specialises in performance marketing, digital brand building, creative strategy and e-commerce.
Today, Digibrush partners with 50+ active brands in Sri Lanka, including HUTCH, Elephant House Beverages, KFC, Crocodile and Keells, while its international portfolio includes Häagen-Dazs, Nature Valley and Old El Paso through its partnership with General Mills. The agency continues to build globally competitive digital work from Sri Lanka for brands at home and across international markets. For more information, visit digibrush.net.

24.09.2026

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Loops Integrated Celebrates Grand Prix Glory at SLIM DIGIS 2.6, Alongside 13 More Wins

Loops Integrated claimed the coveted Grand Prix at SLIM DIGIS 2.6, alongside 3 Gold Awards and 10 addiConal wins, bringing its total haul to 14 awards and further strengthening its posiCon among Sri Lanka’s leading creaCve-led integrated markeCng agencies. The agency was recognised for mulCple campaigns developed for presCgious brands including Thyaga, SoMlogic Life and DFCC, with the Grand Prix awarded for the Thyaga “Kuna Boss” campaign. The 14 recogniCons span 3 Gold, 1 Silver, 6 Bronze, and 3 Merit Awards, demonstraCng the breadth and quality of the agency’s work. Campaigns such as “Bad Example” and “Hope Carols” for SoMlogic Life, and DFCC Bank’s “Don’t Be Fooled” were among the award-winning work by Loops Integrated. CommenCng on the achievement, Anoj Wijayaratne – ExecuCve Director said, “We’re immensely proud of this achievement. It belongs to the teams who consistently push the work forward and to the clients who trust us enough to give bold ideas the space to become meaningful work. Awards are an important recogniCon of what we have accomplished, but they are also a reminder to keep raising the bar. Our focus now is on what comes next; sharper thinking, more ambiCous partnerships and work that proves this level of excellence is our standard, not our ceiling.” The SLIM DIGIS Awards, widely regarded as Sri Lanka’s premier awards programmes for Digital MarkeCng, is organised by the Sri Lanka InsCtute of MarkeCng. The pla]orm brings together leading brands and agencies, while recognising campaigns that demonstrate genuine creaCvity, innovaCon and measurable impact. The 14 awards at SLIM DIGIS 2.6 for Loops Integrated add to the agency’s extensive repertoire of recognised work in digital and integrated markeCng on top of the 4 Awards at the Dragons of Sri Lanka Awards earlier in the year. 2025 marks another award-winning year for the agency, its clients and the diverse teams behind the work.

24.09.2026

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Sterling Aftercare Expands Western Province Network with New Rathmalana Collision Repair Centre

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Sterling Automobiles Lanka (Pvt) Ltd has expanded its aftercare network with the opening of a dedicated collision repair and body shop facility in Rathmalana, bringing professional vehicle accident repair services closer to motorists across the Western Province.

The new Sterling Aftercare facility has been established to provide comprehensive collision repair, bodywork, painting and refinishing services under one roof. The company said the centre combines trained technicians with modern repair technology while maintaining the service standards of its established Sterling Aftercare network.

Designed to handle a wide range of vehicle repairs, the Rathmalana facility provides services ranging from full structural accident repairs and cosmetic bodywork to quick-turnaround repairs and complete vehicle painting and refinishing. The centre caters to all makes and models, including Japanese and European vehicles.

Nalin Warnakula, CFO of Sterling Automobiles Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, said the new facility was established to make dependable and professional collision repair services more accessible to customers.

“It's stressful enough to have an accident without having to look for dependable service across town,” he said, adding that the facility focuses on structural safety, durability and factory-grade finishing through skilled technicians, modern repair technology and comprehensive painting capabilities.

Sterling said the Rathmalana operation has been designed to streamline the vehicle recovery process following an accident. The workflow begins with structured vehicle reception and systematic damage assessment, followed by precision body repairs, specialised painting, multi-point quality checks and a verified vehicle handover.

According to the company, this approach is intended to provide customers with greater clarity throughout the repair process while maintaining consistent standards in safety and workmanship.

The new facility also strengthens Sterling Automobiles’ broader aftercare offering, which covers vehicle ownership requirements ranging from advanced diagnostics and accident restoration to routine maintenance and mechanical services.

Established in 2007, Sterling Automobiles Lanka currently operates a network of more than five service centres and has a workforce of over 400 employees, serving a customer base of more than 100,000.

The Sterling Aftercare network currently includes centres in Nugegoda, Kadawatha, Minuwangoda, Galle and Rathmalana.

The Rathmalana facility is expected to serve individual vehicle owners as well as corporate fleet managers, insurance assessors and automotive trade partners seeking professional collision repair, consistent service standards and documented turnaround processes.

24.09.2026

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Ceylinco Life’s A. I. P. Manjula among 3 global finalists for Insurance Agent of the Year award

Ceylinco Life has announced that A.I.P. Manjula of the Company’s Ambalantota branch was among the three global finalists for the prestigious Insurance Agent of the Year award at the 11th Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards (ATLAA) 2026, bringing recognition for Sri Lankan insurance excellence to one of the region’s most respected platforms for life insurance and financial advisory professionals.

For Ceylinco Life, the recognition reflects the calibre and customer-focused approach of its agency force, while for Manjula it represents a significant personal achievement on the regional stage, with acknowledgment of his dedication, professionalism and commitment to putting customers first, the Company said. The ATLAA programme recognises high-performing professionals who demonstrate exceptional standards of competence, client trust and commitment to the interests of policyholders.

The ATLAA 2026 attracted nominations from across South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region, including markets such as Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, Macau, Japan and South Korea.

“Manjula’s achievement in being selected one of the three finalists represents a significant recognition of Sri Lankan insurance professionalism within a highly competitive regional field, and reinforces the value of placing customers and their long-term interests at the heart of insurance advisory,” the Company added.

Organised jointly by Asia Advisers Network (AAN) and Asia Insurance Review (AIR), with LIMRA as a co-organiser, the awards are decided by an independent judging and balloting process monitored by KPMG as the official scrutineer, while the judging panel comprised more than a dozen CEOs, senior life insurance executives, association presidents and subject-matter experts from across the Asia-Pacific region.

Importantly, the Insurance Agent of the Year award is assessed on a balanced set of criteria extending beyond sales production. These include consistent production benchmarks, ethics, client-centric service, policy persistency, digital adoption and innovative practice management, as well as contributions to the agency, the wider insurance industry and the community through CSR initiatives.

Ranked Sri Lanka’s most valuable insurance brand in the 2026 Brand Finance ranking of the country’s 100 Most Valuable Brands, Ceylinco Life was also voted the ‘Peoples Life Insurance Service Provider of the Year’ for an unprecedented 20th consecutive year at the 2026 SLIM Kantar Peoples Awards. The Company, which has been recognised as the Best Life Insurer in Sri Lanka by World Finance for 12 consecutive years, offers innovative insurance solutions that protect and de-risk the ambitions of millions of policyholders and their family members.

24.09.2026

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Sri Lanka–Nordic Business Council Hosts Members' Day and Panel Discussion on Skills, Start-ups and Innovation

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The Sri Lanka–Nordic Business Council (SLNORBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce hosted its Members' Day and Panel Discussion under the theme "Skills, Start-ups and Innovation: Developing the Next Generation of Partnerships,", bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from Sri Lanka and the Nordic region to discuss opportunities for collaboration in innovation-driven sectors.
The programme featured keynote addresses by Sanjay Kulatunga, Director of Lynear Wealth Management, and Mano Sekaram, Founder and Chairman of 99X Technology, who shared perspectives on emerging trends in wealth management, technology entrepreneurship, and the innovation ecosystem shaping bilateral opportunities. This was followed by a presentation from Port City Colombo and a video presentation by Daniel Nordlund, Chairman of the Sweden–Sri Lanka Business Council.
The event also featured a panel discussion exploring practical pathways for collaboration between Sri Lankan and Nordic businesses, featuring Hariharan Padmanaban, Cluster Head, Global Capability Centres and R&D at CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd; Sampath Jayasundara, Chairperson of SLASSCOM and CEO of hSenid Business Solutions PLC and Peoples HR; and Prajeeth Balasubramaniam, Managing Partner at BOV Capital. The discussion was moderated by Yolani Fernando, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Arutha. The proceedings concluded with the presentation of gifts to speakers, closing remarks by the President of the Sri Lanka–Nordic Business Council, and a networking reception.
The Members' Day and Panel Discussion reflect SLNORBC's continued commitment to strengthening economic and commercial ties between Sri Lanka and the Nordic countries, with a particular focus on nurturing skills development, entrepreneurship, and innovation as pillars for future collaboration.

24.09.2026

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SLT-MOBITEL Enterprise Launches Premium Cloud Platform Powered by Nutanix

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Riyaaz Rasheed, CEO, SLT-MOBITEL, and Faiz Shakir, VP Sales – Nutanix, Southern Asia, unveil SLT-MOBITEL Enterprise Premium Cloud Powered by Nutanix to support enterprise digital transformation.

SLT-MOBITEL Enterprise has expanded its cloud services portfolio with the launch of its new Enterprise Premium Cloud, powered by Nutanix, at Lanka Tech Summit 2026 held at ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo.
The new cloud platform is designed to support Sri Lankan enterprises in modernising their IT infrastructure, managing critical workloads and preparing for the growing adoption of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies.
The service combines hybrid and multi-cloud capabilities with enterprise-level performance, allowing organisations to manage workloads across different IT environments while improving flexibility and business continuity.
Among the key capabilities are scalable cloud deployments, disaster recovery and enhanced operational agility. The platform is also designed to support application and data mobility across on-premises infrastructure, public cloud environments and edge locations.
The launch represents a further step in SLT-MOBITEL Enterprise’s expansion of its multi-cloud services, as businesses increasingly seek flexible and secure technology infrastructure to support digital transformation.
A significant development associated with the launch is SLT-MOBITEL Enterprise’s entry into the Nutanix Elevate Service Provider Program (NESPP), making it the first service provider in the region to join the programme, according to the company.
Through its collaboration with Nutanix, SLT-MOBITEL Enterprise combines Nutanix’s hybrid multicloud technology with its local infrastructure and customer support capabilities.
The Premium Cloud service is hosted within SLT-MOBITEL’s Tier III data centre infrastructure, providing enterprises with a platform designed around security, reliability, scalability and business continuity.
The service is intended to help organisations optimise their IT operations and improve workload performance while maintaining security and compliance requirements as their digital needs evolve.
The launch took place during Lanka Tech Summit 2026, which brought together CIOs, CTOs, technology professionals and business decision-makers to examine developments in hybrid multi-cloud adoption and enterprise digital transformation.
The event featured keynote presentations, executive discussions and live technology demonstrations, highlighting approaches through which businesses can use hybrid multi-cloud environments to increase operational flexibility and support long-term digital growth.
The participation of customers, technology partners and industry leaders at the summit also reflected the growing engagement among Sri Lankan businesses with cloud technologies and digital transformation.
With the introduction of Enterprise Premium Cloud Powered by Nutanix, SLT-MOBITEL Enterprise is further positioning its cloud portfolio around the evolving requirements of organisations seeking scalable infrastructure, improved resilience and greater flexibility in an increasingly digital business environment.

24.09.2026

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JXG Spartans I Graduates Begin New Careers Across Janashakthi Group

By Vipula Amarasinghe

JXG (Janashakthi Group) has marked the graduation of the inaugural cohort of its Management Trainee Programme, Spartans I, celebrating the completion of an 18-month professional development journey for a group of young talent.
The graduation ceremony was held at Hilton Colombo Residences under the theme ‘Beginning to Becoming’, reflecting the transition of the trainees from young professionals undergoing structured development to employees taking on new responsibilities across the Group.
Following the completion of the programme, the graduates have moved into new professional roles across JXG and its subsidiaries, including First Capital, Janashakthi Life and Janashakthi Finance.
The Spartans programme was designed to provide management trainees with exposure to different areas of the Group while developing their understanding of the businesses, strengthening professional relationships and preparing them for future leadership responsibilities.
During the ceremony, members of the Spartans I cohort reflected on their experiences throughout the 18-month programme. An ‘Honouring Excellence’ segment also recognised achievements recorded by the trainees during their development journey.
Delivering the keynote address, Ramesh Schaffter, Managing Director and Group CEO of JXG, said graduation should be viewed not as the conclusion of the journey but as the beginning of a broader professional career.
He encouraged the graduates to transform the exposure they gained during the programme into deeper business understanding while taking ownership of their responsibilities, continuing to learn, building strong professional relationships and contributing new ideas to the organisation.
Group Chief Human Resources Officer of JXG, Wasanthi Stephen, said the Spartans programme was established to provide young talent with opportunities to learn, grow and build meaningful careers within the Group.
She said the first cohort had gained experience across JXG over the past 18 months and developed into young professionals ready to take the next steps in their careers.
The graduation represents another stage in JXG’s efforts to develop a future-ready talent pipeline by providing young professionals with structured exposure, learning opportunities and career pathways within the Group.
Through programmes such as Spartans, JXG continues to focus on creating opportunities for young employees to take on new challenges, develop their capabilities and contribute to the Group’s future growth.

24.09.2026

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IDL: A Great Place to Work, Once Again

Janek Jayasekara, CEO of IDL, receiving the Great Place to Work certification from Kaneru Godagama, Head of Business Development at Great Place to Work, whilst Praveena Senanayake, Project Manager at GPW, Rohitha Amarapala, CHRO of IDL, and Ardithya Senaratne and Saham Ruthmin of IDL look on, at a ceremony held recently at Cinnamon Life, Colombo.

International Distillers Limited (IDL) has once again been certified as a Great Place to Work, a proud reaffirmation of its commitment to building a people centric, values driven and high performing organisation.
This recognition reflects IDL’s sustained investment in its people, progressive HR practices, and a culture that nurtures engagement, learning, collaboration and performance. Adding further shine to this milestone, IDL claimed the Overall Winner title at the Great HR Quiz 2026, in its very first year of participation, a testament to the depth of talent and knowledge within the organisation.
In an increasingly competitive beverage industry, IDL continues to stand out as a progressive and dynamic organisation, one that pairs strong business growth with an unwavering commitment to its people and culture. This momentum resonates across the Group, with sister company SOZO, a manufacturer of natural fruit juices and water, also scaling rapidly, a shared spirit of ambition, innovation and growth that defines the wider organisation.

21.09.2026

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David Pieris Automobiles opens new BAIC Showroom in Kandy

David Pieris Automobiles (Private) Limited (DPA), the four-wheeler automotive arm of the David Pieris Group, has expanded its BAIC showroom network with the opening of its newest showroom in Kandy.
Located at No. 262A, Katugastota Road, Kandy, the new showroom brings BAIC’s range of modern vehicles closer to customers in Kandy and the surrounding areas, further strengthening the brand’s presence in Sri Lanka.
The opening marks another significant step in DPA’s efforts to expand access to BAIC vehicles across the country, supported by the growing demand for modern, feature-rich and technologically advanced mobility solutions.
The new Kandy showroom joins BAIC’s existing flagship showroom on Pannipitiya Road, Battaramulla, together with its showrooms in Hyde Park Corner Colombo 02, Kurunegala, Matara, Ratnapura, Jaffna and Ampara. The expanding network enables customers in key regions to conveniently explore BAIC’s vehicle range and receive professional sales assistance.
A growing range of BAIC vehicles
David Pieris Automobiles currently markets three BAIC models in Sri Lanka, catering to a range of customer requirements and preferences.
The portfolio includes the BAIC X55, a contemporary SUV offering a combination of design, performance, technology and practicality; the BAIC BJ30, a distinctive SUV designed for customers seeking versatility and a bold driving experience; and the BAIC X3e, a fully electric vehicle that reflects BAIC’s commitment to the future of sustainable mobility.
The availability of these models through the expanding showroom network provides customers with greater opportunities to experience BAIC’s latest automotive technologies and select a vehicle suited to their lifestyle.
Strengthening after-sales support
Complementing its expanding showroom presence, DPA continues to strengthen BAIC’s after-sales service network to provide customers with reliable support throughout their vehicle ownership journey.
BAIC after-sales services are available through the dedicated BAIC Service Centre at Hyde Park Corner, supported by an islandwide dealer network. This growing service infrastructure is designed to provide customers with convenient access to maintenance and after-sales assistance across the country.
The expansion of the BAIC showroom and service network reflects DPA’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive ownership experience, backed by the expertise and nationwide presence of the David Pieris Group.
With the opening of the Kandy showroom, customers in the Central Province can now experience BAIC vehicles and access dedicated sales support closer to home, further strengthening the brand’s growing footprint in Sri Lanka.

21.09.2026

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Ambewela Redefines Indulgence with the Launch of Sri Lanka's Finest Mango Flavoured Yoghurt

Ambewela, Sri Lanka's benchmark for premium dairy excellence, has once again raised the bar in product innovation with the launch of its new Mango Flavoured Yoghurt, bringing together the rich, authentic taste of mango and the creamy goodness of Ambewela yoghurt.
Made from pure, fresh milk sourced from Ambewela's own farms, the new Mango Flavoured Yoghurt reflects the brand's unwavering commitment to quality, freshness, and food safety. Infused with the rich taste of mango, a favourite among Sri Lankans, this delicious yoghurt offers a refreshing and wholesome treat that perfectly balances indulgence and nutrition.
Available in a convenient 80g cup, it is ideal as an on-the-go snack, a light dessert, or a delicious everyday indulgence. Its smooth, creamy texture and rich mango flavour make it an irresistible choice for consumers of all ages.
Since introducing its iconic Set Yoghurt in 2009, Ambewela has earned the trust of Sri Lankan consumers through its commitment to premium quality. Building on that legacy, the brand has continued to expand its flavoured yoghurt range to meet evolving consumer preferences. The introduction of Mango Flavoured Yoghurt reflects Ambewela's ability to blend Sri Lanka's favourite local flavours with modern dairy innovation, further strengthening its position in the premium yoghurt category.
With this latest addition to its portfolio, Ambewela continues to redefine the yoghurt experience by delivering products that combine exceptional taste, superior quality, and trusted nutrition. More than just a yoghurt, Ambewela Mango Flavoured Yoghurt celebrates the flavours Sri Lankans love, crafted with the care and excellence that have made Ambewela the country's most trusted dairy brand.
Experience the delicious taste of mango blended with the creamy goodness of Ambewela yoghurt. Discover Ambewela Mango Flavoured Yoghurt today, where real fruit, premium dairy, and everyday indulgence come together.

21.09.2026

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Ideal Motors Makes History with Multiple Workplace Excellence Awards

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Representatives from Ideal Motors (Pvt) Ltd receive top organizational culture and workplace accolades at the Great Place to Work® 2026 awards ceremony.

Ideal Motors (Pvt) Ltd has achieved several workplace and organisational culture recognitions in 2026, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to strengthen employee engagement, professional development and business performance.
The company was named among the 20 Great Workplaces for Young Talent in Sri Lanka 2026, secured the No. 1 position and Gold Medal in the Small and Medium category at the Best Workplaces™ in Sri Lanka Awards 2026, and ranked No. 18 in the Medium Scale category of Best Workplaces™ in Asia. It also received Industry Excellence for Workplace Culture in the Trading Industry.
The recognition for young talent was presented at the Great Place To Work® CXO Forum 2026, held on September 10 at Cinnamon Life, Colombo. The evaluation considered more than 100 certified organisations and recognised workplaces that provide meaningful opportunities for employees under 35 to develop their skills, contribute and progress in their careers.
At the Best Workplaces™ in Sri Lanka Awards Gala 2026, held on September 11 at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, Ideal Motors entered the national Best Workplaces list for the first time, securing the top position and Gold Medal in the Small and Medium category.
The company’s No. 18 ranking in the Medium Scale category of Best Workplaces™ in Asia also recognised its workplace culture beyond Sri Lanka, making it the highest-ranked Sri Lankan organisation in that category.
According to the company, these achievements reflect an ongoing organisational transformation in which people, workplace culture and business performance are increasingly viewed as interconnected elements of sustainable growth.
Over the past few years, Ideal Motors’ Human Resources function has evolved from a predominantly administrative role into a strategic business partner. Its focus has expanded to include employee experience, capability development, engagement, performance, communication, wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, and data-driven HR practices.
The Group Deputy General Manager – HR & Administration said the organisation views HR as a business function specialising in people, with an emphasis on innovative practices and solutions that strengthen employee capabilities, improve workplace experiences and deliver business value.
The Managing Director/CEO of Ideal Group said employees remain central to the company’s success, highlighting the importance of creating a workplace where people feel valued, empowered and supported in their professional growth.
The company’s people-focused initiatives include employee engagement platforms, HR Clinics, learning and development programmes, recognition initiatives, improved HR systems and processes, and stronger internal communication.
Under the philosophy “Driven by People. Powered by Inclusion,” Ideal Motors is also advancing its 2026 diversity, equity and inclusion theme, “Inclusive Together – One Team, Every Voice Matters.” The initiative focuses on creating opportunities for young talent, women in technical and frontline positions, emerging leaders and employees at different stages of their careers.
Beyond its own workforce, the company is contributing to the development of technical skills through the Ideal Motors Technical Training Centre (IMTTC). The centre provides young people with practical training and pathways into the automotive sector, supporting efforts to develop an industry-ready workforce for Sri Lanka.
Ideal Motors said its latest recognitions represent external validation of its ongoing efforts to build an inclusive and high-performing workplace.
The company’s objective extends beyond winning awards, focusing on creating an environment where employees can grow, contribute and succeed while supporting the sustainable development of the business and the wider automotive industry.

21.09.2026

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SLEIS 2026 to Examine Sri Lanka’s Energy Transition and Its Implications for Economic Growth

Reliable and affordable energy is essential to Sri Lanka’s economic growth, industrial development and competitiveness. As the country seeks to strengthen energy security while reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, the energy sector will be a key area of discussion at the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026, organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 12-13 October 2026.
The session, “Beyond Fossil Dependence: Balancing Security, Sustainability, and Growth,” will examine how Sri Lanka can diversify its energy sources, accelerate renewable energy adoption and attract investment while ensuring a reliable energy supply for businesses and households. Discussions will also consider the infrastructure and policy frameworks needed to support the country’s transition towards a modern and competitive energy system.
Ms. Edore Onomakpome – Regional Infrastructure Industry Manager – Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal, at the International Finance Corporation will keynote the session, and join the panel discussion featuring Mr. G.M.R.D. Aponsu - Secretary to the Ministry of Energy, Mr. Damitha Kumarasinghe - Director General (Chief Executive Officer), Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka, and Mr. Manjula Perera - Managing Director, WindForce PLC. The discussion will be moderated by Mr. Sheran Fernando - Senior Advisor, Plus94.
The session will also explore the role of public-private collaboration in developing new energy solutions, encouraging investment and creating opportunities within Sri Lanka’s evolving energy sector. It will consider how energy policy and investment decisions can support both economic expansion and the country’s longer-term sustainability objectives.
The Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 is supported by its valued sponsors and partners. Platinum Sponsor – Standard Chartered Bank Sri Lanka, Gold Sponsor – VISA Worldwide (Pvt) Ltd., Bronze Sponsor – South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd., Strategic Development Partner – Asian Development Bank, Telecommunication Partner – Dialog Telecommunication, Television Partner – Dialog Television, Session Sponsors – David Pieris Motor Company (Pvt) Ltd., Hemas Holdings PLC, Sunshine Holdings PLC, International Construction Consortium (Pvt) Ltd., Official Logistics Partner – Hayleys Advantis Limited, Official Airline – SriLankan Airlines Ltd., Official Hospitality Partner – Shangri-La Colombo, Airline Partner – China Eastern Air Holding Co. Ltd.

21.09.2026

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Kings Hospital Colombo Launches Sri Lanka’s First AI-Powered Hospital Chatbot

Kings Hospital Colombo has marked a historic milestone in Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector with the launch of the country’s first AI-powered hospital chatbot. This groundbreaking digital innovation is set to transform the way patients interact with hospital services, offering instant, intelligent, and user-friendly assistance around the clock. As the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, the chatbot reinforces Kings Hospital’s position as a pioneer in integrating advanced technology into patient care.
The newly launched chatbot is designed to provide seamless support for a wide range of hospital-related inquiries. Patients and visitors can simply type their questions to receive immediate responses regarding hospital services, specialist consultations, doctor availability, channeling procedures, details of health checkups and general hospital information. This eliminates the need for long waiting times on phone lines or at help desks, ensuring a faster and more efficient experience for every user.
One of the key advantages of the chatbot is its 24/7 availability. Whether it is late at night or during peak hours, patients can access accurate information at their convenience. The system is built to understand natural language, allowing users to communicate in a simple, conversational manner. This makes the technology accessible to a broad range of users, including those who may not be familiar with complex digital platforms.
For channeling and appointments, the chatbot simplifies what has traditionally been a time-consuming process. Users can check available doctors and receive guidance on booking their visits. By streamlining these interactions, the hospital aims to reduce congestion, improve operational efficiency, and allow staff to focus more on delivering quality patient care.
The introduction of this chatbot reflects Kings Hospital Colombo’s broader commitment to digital transformation in healthcare. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the hospital is not only enhancing patient convenience but also setting a new benchmark. This initiative demonstrates how technology can be harnessed to create a more connected, responsive, and patient-centered healthcare ecosystem.
Speaking on the launch, hospital representatives emphasized that the chatbot is designed to complement, not replace, human interaction. Trained staff remain available to assist with complex medical inquiries and emergencies, while the chatbot handles routine information requests with speed and accuracy.
With this landmark launch, Kings Hospital Colombo cements its reputation as a leader in healthcare innovation in Sri Lanka. The chatbot is expected to play a vital role in improving patient engagement and service delivery, paving the way for further technological advancements in the nation’s healthcare industry.

Chat with our AI-powered chatbot: https://wa.link/s27fu5

21.09.2026

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Soft Gallery Marks 6-Year Milestone with New Office Opening and Global Expansion Roadmap for Gallery HR

The ceremonial opening of Soft Gallery’s new office, marking its sixth anniversary.

Marking a major milestone in its growth trajectory, Sri Lankan technology company Soft Gallery (Pvt) Ltd recently celebrated its sixth anniversary alongside the official opening of its modern new office space. Positioned not merely as a real estate expansion, the move represents the company’s transition into its next phase of enterprise growth, driven by deep investments in artificial intelligence (AI), intelligent automation, advanced HR analytics, and global market expansion.
Founded on the principle of building reliable, scalable, and genuinely useful enterprise technology, Soft Gallery has evolved from a targeted software initiative into an established technology firm. Its flagship HR technology platform, Gallery HR, is currently trusted by approximately 350 client organizations across seven countries, streamlining workforce operations for enterprises, mid-market businesses, and high-growth startups alike.
In its initial years, Soft Gallery prioritized building robust architecture, user-centric functionality, and scalable infrastructure over quick commercial scale. That product-first strategy established Gallery HR as an enterprise-grade platform capable of solving complex workforce management and HR challenges.
The new office serves as a physical testament to the company's sustained momentum and long-term commitment to its clients, technology, and workforce. It sets the stage for a bold global initiative: expanding Gallery HR beyond Sri Lanka into high-growth international markets, with a dedicated push into key African territories, East Asian and Middle East Regions, alongside other emerging enterprise technology hubs.
To power this next growth phase, Soft Gallery is enhancing Gallery HR's core capability framework by integrating practical AI and automated workflows designed to reduce administrative overhead, improve workforce decision making, and create friction-free digital employee experiences.
Dilantha Perera, Founder, Director and Chief Executive Officer of Soft Gallery said, "Six years ago, we started with a simple idea and a belief that we could build meaningful technology from Sri Lanka. Today, Gallery HR is trusted by around 350 organizations, but we see this as only the beginning. Our new office represents our confidence in the future and our commitment to investing further in our people, technology, and product. Our ambition is to make Gallery HR simpler, smarter, and increasingly AI-driven, while building a platform capable of competing beyond Sri Lanka. I am incredibly grateful to our team, customers, partners, and co-founders who have believed in this journey and helped us reach this milestone."
Echoing these sentiments, Susith De Silva, Co-Founder, Director and Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the strategic contribution of early leadership and investors, noting that early guidance, foundational capital, and steadfast belief in the engineering talent enabled the business to build a truly international-grade platform.As workplaces worldwide increasingly embrace data-driven decision-making, automation and artificial intelligence to transform people management, Soft Gallery is positioning Gallery HR beyond a traditional HR software solution, evolving it into an all-in-one HR technology, intelligence and employee experience platform that brings together core HR operations, automation, advanced analytics and AI-driven capabilities for modern organizations.
The company's technology roadmap focuses on stripping away non-value-adding corporate administration through practical AI applications, allowing business leaders, HR directors, and enterprise teams to focus on organizational culture, talent development, and strategic growth. With a strengthened operational foundation, an expanding customer base, and clear regional expansion targets, Soft Gallery enters its seventh year poised to showcase Sri Lankan technology engineering on the global stage.

20.09.2026

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Evolution Auto Highlights the Growing Importance of TOPS Power Score in Next-Generation EVs

As vehicles become Software-Defined, Evolution Auto’s portfolio brings AI computing capabilities ranging from 48 TOPS in the XPENG L03 to 100 TOPS in the AVATR 07

Evolution Auto is highlighting the growing importance of vehicle computing power as the automotive industry moves towards Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs), with its current portfolio offering AI computing capabilities ranging from 48 TOPS in the XPENG L03 to 100 TOPS in the AVATR 07, the highest TOPS score among SUVs in Sri Lanka.
For consumers, one way of understanding a vehicle's computing capability is through TOPS, or Trillion Operations Per Second. In simple terms, TOPS indicates the theoretical AI processing capability of a computing system, representing how many trillion operations it can theoretically perform in one second. The figure is calculated based on the computing architecture of the system: TOPS = AI compute cores × operations per clock cycle × clock frequency.  
As vehicles become increasingly software-driven, computing capability is becoming an important part of what a vehicle can do. The vehicle’s computing platform can be viewed as its “brain”, processing information from cameras and other sensors while supporting intelligent functions, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and AI-powered features.
The computer platform in a Software-Defined Vehicle provides the foundation for its intelligence, much like the processor in a smartphone supports applications, processes information, and enables new features. This represents a shift in how consumers can assess next-generation vehicles, alongside more familiar specifications such as horsepower, battery capacity, acceleration, driving range, and charging capability.    
Nuran Silva, spokesperson for Evolution Auto, said: “The automotive landscape is moving from vehicles that are primarily defined by their mechanical systems to vehicles where software and computing are becoming central to the experience. This means consumers are being introduced to specifications like TOPS, that were not traditionally part of the car-buying conversation. Our portfolio, ranging from 48 TOPS in the XPENG L03 to 100 TOPS in the AVATR 07, reflects the computing capabilities now available in next-generation vehicles. In addition to bringing these technologies to Sri Lanka, we believe it is our role to educate consumers about them so they can make better decisions as mobility evolves.”     
TOPS is usually measured using INT8 precision for AI inference and is based on peak theoretical processing capability. However, a higher TOPS figure does not automatically translate into better real-world vehicle performance. How computing capacity is applied depends on factors including software optimisation, sensor architecture, thermal management, and the wider computing platform.   
As vehicle architecture evolves, this distinction becomes increasingly important. Many Electronic Control Units (ECUs) are used in traditional vehicles to control different systems. Software-Defined Vehicles are increasingly adopting more centralised computer architectures, enabling software and computing capability to have a greater influence on how vehicles operate and develop. 
This means looking at an EV as more than just an electric powertrain for consumers. While battery capacity, driving range, and charging are still crucial, buyers can also take into account a vehicle's computing capability, AI, ADAS, sensor integration, software architecture, and Over-the-Air (OTA) capabilities, all of which affect how intelligently it can function and how its technology can change over time.     
The portfolio of Evolution Auto offers a tangible reference for this developing specification, giving consumers a clear view of the range of AI computing capability available across its next-generation vehicles.  
This represents a broader perspective on vehicle technology for consumers switching from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). Purchasing decisions now take into account the vehicle's digital and computing architecture in addition to the powertrain.
Consumers will have more factors to take into account than the traditional specifications listed on a vehicle brochure as Software-Defined Vehicles gain popularity. Gaining insight into an EV's computing capability, software, and intelligent systems can provide a broader view of the vehicle's current capabilities and potential future technological advancements. 

20.09.2026

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Digital Summit Asia | Sri Lanka 2026 to Bring Regional Digital Industry Leaders to Colombo

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The Digital Marketers Association of Sri Lanka (DMASL) is set to host Digital Summit Asia | Sri Lanka 2026, powered by Visa, on October 1 and 2 at Water’s Edge, Colombo, bringing together professionals from across Asia’s digital, marketing, creative, technology and business sectors.
Held under the theme “The Epicentre”, the Summit aims to establish a regional platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and networking, connecting Sri Lankan professionals with creators, innovators, entrepreneurs and industry leaders from across Asia.
This year’s event marks an expansion of the Summit’s focus beyond Sri Lanka, exploring how the convergence of different disciplines, ideas and perspectives can shape the future of digital innovation and creativity.
The international speaker lineup features industry leaders from regional and global organisations, including Dissara Udomdej (Ohm), CEO and Founder of Yell Worldwide; Naved Qureshi, Business Head, Southeast Asia at Voxxy Media; Aneek Ahmed, Founder of The Outwit Company and The Certified Strategic Marketer Platform; and Farah Mehdi, Client Partner, CSAA: Consumer Business at TikTok (ByteDance).
Other speakers include Danny Advani, Head of Content and Business at Dot Media; Sundar Swaminathan, Marketing Science Advisor and former Head of Global Brand and International Marketing Science at Uber; Oliver Atkinson, Director of Narrative Strategy at Casual Films; Ovais Ahamed, Founder of Senator We Run Ads; Laurent Thevenet, Head of Creative Tech APAC at Publicis Groupe; and Kerem Gorkem Orhan, Client Partner, South Asia and Turkey at TikTok (ByteDance).
The two-day programme will feature keynote presentations, interactive sessions, breakout rooms, workshops, roundtable discussions and panel conversations, moving beyond conventional conference formats to encourage engagement and knowledge exchange.
Discussions will focus on key developments shaping the digital and creative industries, including artificial intelligence, the creator economy, brand building, marketing effectiveness, storytelling, innovation and the future of digital advertising.
The Summit will bring together professionals from a broad range of sectors, including financial technology, marketing technology, travel and tourism, retail, media, advertising, e-commerce, data analytics and artificial intelligence.
A dedicated series of sessions will examine the intersection of digital technology, travel and tourism, providing a platform for industry professionals to explore how destinations, hospitality brands and experiences can connect with audiences through digital and creative strategies.
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, is powering the Summit, which reflects the growing importance of digital transformation across industries and the need for collaboration among professionals shaping the sector’s future.
Beyond the conference sessions, the event will place emphasis on networking and community engagement. The Night Summit will feature speed networking, talent showcases, gaming and interactive experiences, while the second evening will conclude with the Summit Social.
Through its regional speaker lineup, cross-industry programme and networking opportunities, Digital Summit Asia | Sri Lanka 2026 aims to strengthen connections between Sri Lanka’s digital community and the wider Asian ecosystem.
The Summit will take place on October 1 and 2, 2026, at Water’s Edge, Colombo. Tickets are available through the official website.

18.09.2026

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John Keells Properties Unveils Sales Gallery and Model Apartment for Vauxhall DSTRCT

John Keells Properties has unveiled the sales gallery and model apartment for its latest residential development, Vauxhall DSTRCT, offering prospective buyers an opportunity to experience the project firsthand. Located at No. 148, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 02, the new space provides a detailed preview of the design, layout, and lifestyle proposition of one of Colombo’s most anticipated residential developments.
The unveiling marks an important step in bringing the Vauxhall DSTRCT vision to life, following the strong market response seen since its launch. The model apartment has been carefully designed to reflect the quality, functionality, and attention to detail that define the development, allowing visitors to better understand how each residence has been planned to support modern city living.
Commenting on the opening, Nadeem Shums, Chief Commercial Officer – Property Group and Senior Vice President of John Keells Holdings said: “The launch of the Vauxhall DSTRCT sales gallery and model apartment allows buyers to experience the development beyond plans and visuals. It brings to life the thinking behind the spaces we are creating, from layout and design to how each element supports a more connected and convenient way of living. It also gives our customers the opportunity to engage directly with the product as they make their purchasing decisions.”
Rising 60 floors above Colombo with 753 residences, Vauxhall DSTRCT is designed as a landmark vertical community in the heart of Colombo 02. Its central location offers seamless connectivity to key commercial, hospitality, and lifestyle destinations, with supermarkets, shopping, entertainment, hospitals, banks, schools, and major business hubs all within easy reach. The development features one, two, three, and four-bedroom residences, complemented by landscaped gardens, recreational spaces, and rooftop amenities designed to create a complete living experience.
Vauxhall DSTRCT also builds on John Keells Properties’ focus on smart, connected city living. Following the introduction of smart technology enabled living at TRI-ZEN, the development further integrates smart technology into the residential experience, bringing greater convenience, connectivity, and functionality into everyday life. This approach reflects the evolving role of technology in modern city living, while allowing residents to experience a more connected way of living within the development.
The sales gallery and model apartment gives prospective buyers an opportunity to experience these elements firsthand and gain a clearer understanding of how the spaces, technology, and thoughtful design come together to shape the Vauxhall DSTRCT living experience.

18.09.2026

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Prime Lands Makes History as Sri Lanka’s First Real Estate Developer to Receive the YouTube Silver Play Button

Prime Lands has made history in Sri Lanka’s real estate sector by becoming the country’s first real estate developer to receive the prestigious YouTube Silver Play Button after surpassing 100,000 subscribers. The milestone comes as Prime Group celebrates its 30th anniversary, adding a significant digital achievement to three decades of growth and innovation.
As part of YouTube’s Creator Awards programme, the Silver Play Button recognises channels that reach significant subscriber milestones. For Prime Lands, reaching this milestone marked more than a growth in audience; it reflected the developer’s transformation from traditional marketing to a digital-first approach and its commitment to using content, technology and storytelling to redefine how Sri Lankans discover and engage with real estate. Today, with a YouTube community of more than 600,000 subscribers, Prime Lands continues to expand its digital reach and deepen its connection with property seekers across Sri Lanka.
The YouTube Silver Play Button represents more than a subscriber milestone for Prime Lands; it reflects the trust the developer has built with its digital audience and its role in transforming real estate marketing in Sri Lanka. By bringing properties, developments and the buying journey to life through authentic and informative content, Prime Lands is enabling customers to research their options more confidently and make better-informed property decisions.
Ruminda Randeniya, CEO/Executive Director, Prime Lands (Pvt) Ltd said, “Our strategy has always been to empower buyers with clarity and confidence. Through the YouTube journey, we have transformed the way people make real estate decisions, guiding smarter property choices to immersive, insightful content, helping them visualize opportunities, understand market dynamics, and make informed choices. Today, Prime Lands has built one of the largest and most loyal digital audiences in Sri Lanka’s property sector and achieved what no other Sri Lankan real estate brand has accomplished. Combining digital storytelling with strategic foresight, we aim to showcase properties and pioneer a new way for buyers to explore real estate opportunities.”
YouTube has become a cornerstone of Prime Lands’ digital engagement strategy, transforming the way customers experience and explore property. Through immersive video tours, detailed walkthroughs, construction progress updates and neighbourhood insights, the channel gives prospective buyers a closer look at developments before making a decision. By putting real properties and genuine progress at the centre of its content, Prime Lands prioritises authenticity and transparency over conventional promotional messaging, giving customers greater control over their research and helping them make property decisions with greater confidence.
Backed by three decades of experience and a portfolio of more than 70 housing and apartment developments and over 10,000 land developments across Sri Lanka, Prime Lands has built a strong foundation in the country’s real estate sector. Its growing digital audience now represents a new dimension of that legacy, demonstrating how Prime Lands is using digital content to reshape the way Sri Lankans discover and engage with real estate.

18.09.2026

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patpat.lk Wins Gold at BestWeb.LK Awards 2026 for Best Mobile User Experience

patpat.lk, Sri Lanka’s digital marketplace, has been awarded Gold for Best Mobile User Experience – Advertising and Marketing at the BestWeb.LK Awards 2026, organised by LK Domain Registry.

The recognition reflects patpat.lk’s continued focus on delivering a simple, intuitive and engaging digital experience for users across Sri Lanka. The platform connects buyers and sellers across a wide range of categories, including vehicles, property, electronics and more, enabling users to discover products, explore options and connect with sellers through a convenient digital marketplace.

The BestWeb.LK Awards recognise excellence in Sri Lanka’s digital landscape, celebrating websites and digital experiences that demonstrate creativity, innovation, functionality and quality. The Gold award marks an important milestone for patpat.lk, recognising its continued investment in enhancing the mobile user experience at a time when mobile platforms play an increasingly important role in how consumers discover products and connect with businesses and sellers.

Further strengthening its performance at the awards, patpat.lk was also recognised with a Silver Award for Best Advertising and Marketing Website, highlighting the strength of its overall digital presence and marketing efforts.

Commenting on the achievement, Amritha Allahakkon, Head of Products at patpat.lk, said, “We are proud to receive the Gold Award for Best Mobile User Experience. This recognition is a reflection of the team’s continued focus on making the platform simpler and more convenient for our users. Technology, for us, is ultimately about creating better experiences for our customers, and this award encourages us to continue raising the bar.”

As digital expectations continue to evolve, patpat.lk remains focused on strengthening its platform, technology and customer experience, with the aim of making buying and selling simpler, more accessible and more convenient for users across Sri Lanka.

17.09.2026

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Emirates Enters Winter Season with Strong Bookings and Expanding Global Network

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Emirates is preparing for the winter travel season with strong booking momentum following a better-than-expected summer performance, supported by continued investments in its fleet, onboard products and global network.
The Dubai-based airline carried more than 8.6 million passengers during July and August 2026, maintaining healthy seat load factors across its network. It is currently operating at approximately 93% of its pre-disruption capacity, with demand continuing to build ahead of the winter season, which begins in late October.
Bookings are tracking positively in several markets, including South Africa, Brazil, India, Portugal, Egypt, Ghana, Colombia, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Demand from Nepal is also performing well through Emirates’ partnership with flydubai.
The airline said customers are increasingly making travel decisions closer to departure, while demand for premium travel continues to grow. The United Arab Emirates also remains a strong outbound market.
During the summer, Emirates services across West Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the Americas and Africa recorded seat load factors exceeding 75%. Particularly strong performance was reported on routes connecting Indonesia, Côte d’Ivoire and the United Kingdom.
Dubai continued to attract international visitors, with more than half a million passengers arriving on Emirates flights in the second half of August alone, representing a 7% increase compared with the same period in 2025.
The airline also introduced greater booking flexibility and travel protection options during the summer, including a free date change across its network, unlimited free date changes for travel to Dubai and reduced refund fees on Dubai journeys. Its Comprehensive Travel Cover includes medical protection against conflict and airspace disruption, alongside airline-managed accommodation, ground support and rebooking assistance where required.
Emirates is accelerating its fleet renewal and cabin modernisation programme as it prepares for increased winter demand.
Since January 2026, the airline has received 18 aircraft, comprising 11 Airbus A350s and seven Boeing 777 freighters. A further six A350s are scheduled to arrive before the end of December.
A total of 104 aircraft have completed the airline’s retrofit programme, including 53 Boeing 777s and 51 Airbus A380s. The number of aircraft offering Premium Economy and Emirates’ latest cabin products has reached 137 and is expected to increase to 155 by the end of the year.
Premium Economy is now available on services to 90 destinations, with six additional destinations scheduled to receive the cabin before year-end. The expansion includes Paris, Delhi and Stockholm.
Emirates is also extending its onboard connectivity, with close to 50 aircraft equipped with Starlink high-speed inflight internet.
Product developments introduced this year include the U-dream headrest for Economy Class on its A350 aircraft, a Premium Economy seat featuring privacy dividers and a new generation of Emirates Lounges. New lounge facilities are already welcoming passengers in Munich, Frankfurt and Manchester.
The airline’s global network is also set to expand as the winter season approaches. Helsinki will join the Emirates network on 1 October, with the route operated by the Airbus A350. The aircraft currently serves 30 destinations from Dubai, a figure expected to rise to 36 by the end of December.
Additional capacity will be introduced on several routes, with second daily services planned for Accra, Tokyo Narita, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. One of Emirates’ daily Delhi services will also be upgraded to an Airbus A380.
From late October, the A350 will be deployed to Larnaca, Malta, Nairobi and Hamburg, followed by Mauritius in November. Retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft will serve Stockholm from October and Frankfurt from November, bringing the airline’s latest cabin products to more passengers.
Emirates’ wider connectivity is supported by 168 codeshare, interline and intermodal partnerships, providing access to an additional 1,750 cities. On an average day, more than 13,000 Emirates customers connect to onward destinations using partner services.
The Emirates-flydubai partnership continues to play a central role in connecting passengers through Dubai. The two airlines jointly provide access to more than 214 unique destinations across over 100 countries, generating more than 4,600 connection opportunities through the hub.
Since the partnership began in 2017, the airlines have carried more than 28 million passengers across their integrated network.
Flydubai has also expanded its destinations during 2026, adding Chittagong in Bangladesh, Benghazi in Libya, Aleppo in Syria and Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport. Pokhara in Nepal is among the destinations added to its network in September.
With new aircraft, upgraded cabins, expanded connectivity and additional flight frequencies, Emirates is entering the winter season with a broader range of travel options for passengers across its international network.

18.09.2026

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Ceylinco Life celebrates champions who go the extra mile for customer service

Top achievers honoured for outstanding performance at Company’s mid-year awards at DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila

Ceylinco Life, Sri Lanka’s leading life insurer, has honoured its top-performing sales personnel at its Mid-Year Awards 2026, recognising their exceptional achievements in customer service during the first half of the year.

Held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila under the theme ‘Champions of Excellence – Mid Year Awards 2026,’ the event brought together 230 participants, including the company’s Chairman, members of the Board, senior management and selected sales officers.

The two-day celebration provided an opportunity to recognise and reward outstanding performance across the company’s sales organisation, while bringing together those who have demonstrated excellence in achieving their goals during the first six months of 2026.

Awards were presented under multiple categories encompassing Investment, Awards of Excellence, Group Insurance, Retirement Planning, Manpower Achievement and Friendship Circle Champions, as well as High Flyer Achievements. The breadth of categories reflected the diverse contributions of Ceylinco Life’s sales force to the company’s performance.

The 124 award winners received a range of rewards in recognition of their achievements, including certificates, plaques, medals, trophies, cash prizes and foreign tours.

Among the distinguished performers recognised at the event were Mr. A. S. Samarasinghe of the Nugegoda branch, who was named Best Regional Sales Manager; Ms. S. R. A. R. Kumari of the Kolonnawa branch as Best Life Insurance Advisor - Rookie Category; Mr. A. I. P. Manjula of the Ambalantota branch, who was adjudged Best Life Insurance Advisor in the Veteran category; Mrs. S. Ragini of the Jaffna branch, who was named Best Sales Executive; and Mr. A. S. L. Fernando of the Wennappuwa branch, who was recognised as Best Agency Head.

Adding to the spirit of appreciation and celebration, accommodation was provided to all winners and participants on a full-board basis at the resort.

The Mid-Year Awards are an important occasion in Ceylinco Life’s annual calendar, providing a platform to celebrate the achievements of its sales force at the halfway point of the year and recognise the dedication to customer service and performance that have contributed to the company’s continued success.

The ‘Champions of Excellence’ theme underscored the significance of the achievements being celebrated, while setting the stage for the award winners to carry their momentum and commitment into the second half of the year.

Ranked Sri Lanka’s most valuable insurance brand in the 2026 Brand Finance ranking of the country’s 100 Most Valuable Brands, Ceylinco Life was also voted the ‘Peoples Life Insurance Service Provider of the Year’ for an unprecedented 20th consecutive year at the 2026 SLIM Kantar Peoples Awards. The Company, which has been recognised as the Best Life Insurer in Sri Lanka by World Finance for 12 consecutive years, offers innovative insurance solutions that protect and de-risk the ambitions of millions of policyholders and their family members.

17.09.2026

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Visa Highlights Digital Growth Opportunities for SMEs at National Forum 2026

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Visa has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth and digital transformation of Sri Lanka’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by partnering with Scale Up 2.0, National SME Forum 2026, organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
The forum brought together SME owners, entrepreneurs, policymakers, financial institutions, corporates, investors and development partners to discuss strategies for strengthening Sri Lanka’s SME ecosystem and helping businesses expand into new markets.
Held under the theme “Connected. Competitive. Ready to Grow”, Scale Up 2.0 focused on improving market access, strengthening business networks, enhancing competitiveness and preparing enterprises for sustainable growth. Discussions covered value-chain integration, standards and certification, investment readiness, the expansion of mid-sized businesses and digital innovation.
Visa supported the forum as Platinum Partner. Representing the company, Avanthi Colombage, Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives at Visa, highlighted the growing importance of technology, digital commerce and secure payment infrastructure in helping SMEs improve operational efficiency, reach wider markets and participate in the global economy.
She said SMEs play a central role in Sri Lanka’s economic resilience and future growth, adding that the next phase of their development would depend significantly on their ability to adopt digital tools and access new business opportunities.
Colombage noted that Visa supports SME development through innovative payment solutions, ecosystem partnerships, financial literacy and digital capability-building initiatives aimed at helping small businesses operate more efficiently and compete with greater confidence.
She also highlighted the increasing demand among SMEs for simpler business solutions, seamless digital experiences, easier access to working capital and reliable cross-border payment facilities.
With businesses across retail, tourism, technology, exports and the creator economy pursuing different growth opportunities, she emphasised the importance of providing solutions that respond to their individual business models and ambitions.
As Sri Lankan SMEs increasingly explore opportunities beyond domestic markets, digital commerce and globally connected payment infrastructure are becoming important tools for reaching international customers and suppliers. Such systems can also support faster, simpler and more transparent transactions.
Colombage added that SMEs are looking for long-term business partners who understand their requirements and can support them throughout their growth journey. She said enabling businesses to accept payments, reach new customers, access markets and operate efficiently can help create wider opportunities for their development.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, said Scale Up 2.0 was designed to move discussions about SME development from aspiration to action.
He noted that entrepreneurs require stronger connections to markets, finance, technology, standards and strategic partnerships to expand their businesses and compete beyond traditional boundaries. The Chamber remains committed to creating platforms that connect stakeholders and provide SMEs with the knowledge, networks and opportunities needed for sustainable growth.
Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, said Sri Lanka’s SME sector has considerable potential to contribute to inclusive economic growth, exports, innovation and employment.
He highlighted the untapped opportunities available in domestic and international markets, noting that realising this potential would require future-ready businesses, greater digital adoption, improved access to finance and stronger collaboration among government, industry, payment providers and development partners.
The Deputy Minister said the government’s focus was on creating an enabling environment for SMEs to compete, expand and contribute to the country’s economic development.
Visa’s participation in the forum reflects its ongoing engagement in supporting business digitalisation and strengthening the ecosystem for Sri Lankan SMEs. Collaboration among public and private sector organisations, financial institutions, industry bodies and technology providers remains an important part of helping entrepreneurs transform business ambitions into sustainable economic opportunities.

17.089.2026

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AlchemX Global launches publication charting Sri Lanka’s emerging SLFRS S1 and S2 reporting landscape

AlchemX Global launched its latest publication, “Insights from the First Wave - Sri Lanka's emerging SLFRS S1 & S2 Reporting Landscape”, at an event held on recently at Hilton Residencies, Colombo, bringing together representatives from across Sri Lanka’s corporate and reporting ecosystem.
The event was attended by senior representatives and leadership from key institutional and professional bodies including the Colombo Stock Exchange, CA Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Accounting and Auditing Standards Monitoring Board, AICPA & CIMA and ACCA together with corporate leaders, clients, reporting professionals and other market participants.
The publication examines the first cycle of sustainability-related financial disclosures in Sri Lanka, assessing disclosures made by the initial cohort of companies applying SLFRS S1 and S2. Rather than treating the Standards as a compliance exercise, the analysis examines how SLFRS S1 and S2 can be embedded in a way that strengthens strategic thinking, risk management and decision-making. It considers the quality and maturity of disclosures across the key pillars of the Standards highlighting stronger practices while identifying where organisations can move towards more connected, specific and decision-useful reporting. By drawing lessons from the first reporting cycle, AlchemX Global aims to create greater visibility around emerging practices, identify areas where the market is progressing well and provide practical insight into where reporting can continue to mature.
Commenting on the publication, AlchemX Global Co-Founders Chamika Perera and Prashani Illangasekera said:
“Our objective was to contribute to the collective knowledge of the market by making the lessons from the first reporting cycle more accessible and providing organisations with a practical reference point as implementation matures. The analysis therefore looks beyond whether disclosures are present to consider how reporting can become more connected, specific and decision-useful over time.”
The launch also created a forum for dialogue among preparers, professional bodies, market institutions and corporate leaders on the experiences emerging from the first cycle of reporting. The discussions reflected the growing focus on sustainability-related financial information in Sri Lanka and the importance of continued knowledge sharing as organisations strengthen their reporting practices and underlying processes.
AlchemX Global is a specialist professional services firm built around three core pillars: Finance, ESG and Reporting. The Company supports organisations across financial and related professional services, sustainability strategy and ESG integration, while helping organisations implement leading reporting frameworks and standards including IFRS/SLFRS S1 and S2, GRI Standards, SASB Standards and Integrated Reporting.
AlchemX Global is also an official ISSB Training Partner, supporting the development of IFRS S1 and S2 capability in Sri Lanka as organisations build the knowledge and practical skills required to respond to the evolving sustainability reporting landscape.

15.09.2026

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GS1 Lanka Drives Sri Lanka’s Shift to 2D Barcodes

GS1 Lanka marked its 10th Annual General Meeting with a focus on the next stage of product identification in Sri Lanka, as businesses prepare for the wider adoption of 2D barcodes and the growing demand for trusted product information.
Addressing the AGM, GS1 Lanka President Revan Fernando noted that GS1 has been giving Sri Lankan products a globally recognised identity for more than 30 years. He pointed to the shift from traditional barcodes to 2D barcodes as the next major step, particularly as consumers increasingly look beyond a product’s identity to information they can trust about its origin, ingredients, authenticity and use.
GS1 Sunrise 2027 is a global industry initiative aiming to transition retail checkout systems to read 2D barcodes such as QR codes and Data Matrix codes alongside traditional 1D UPC stripes by the end of 2027
Under its Sunrise 2027 initiative, GS1 Lanka is working with the retail and healthcare sectors to prepare businesses for the transition to 2D barcodes. Unlike a conventional barcode used at checkout, a GS1 QR code can also connect consumers to a wider range of product information and support traceability and product verification through GS1 standards.
Fernando also called on brands to get involved in the transition, noting that the change will require businesses to rethink how they use the limited space on product packaging and how they communicate with consumers. GS1 Lanka will also introduce a new retail information platform to help member brands provide richer product information and improve the presentation of their products to consumers.
GS1 Lanka CEO Alikie Perera said the organisation’s work is increasingly focused on helping Sri Lankan businesses keep pace with changes in global supply chains and consumer expectations. The next phase will place greater emphasis on 2D barcodes, GS1 Digital Link, traceability and digital product information, as businesses prepare for a more connected and information-rich marketplace.
At the local level, GS1 Lanka continued its awareness programmes for entrepreneurs, SMEs, manufacturers and exporters, covering product identification, barcode standards, traceability, supply chain efficiency and market access. The organisation has also seen growing adoption of GS1 Activate and Verified by GS1, with more than 5,500 member companies registered on the platforms and over 20,000 product records uploaded.
The AGM concluded with a recognition of the contribution of GS1 Lanka’s members, partners, Board and team, while setting the direction for the organisation’s continued work to bring global standards and new product identification technologies into wider use among Sri Lankan businesses.

15.09.2029

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Siyapatha Finance Strengthens North Western Presence with New Wennappuwa Branch

Homegrown finance company Siyapatha Finance PLC successfully unveiled its 67th branch in Wennappuwa, Puttalam District, further strengthening the Company's presence in the North Western Province. Located in a town at the heart of the country's coconut belt, the latest branch offers convenient and wider access to tailored, customer-centric financial solutions. The area is also served by strong overseas employment links and a growing coastal tourism trade, both of which are driving demand for formal financial services.
The branch was officially declared open by Siyapatha Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana, in the presence of Chief Operating Officer (COO), Mr. Rajeev De Silva, Warnakulasuriya Nirudaka Vishal Fernando of Joseph Vas College, Wennappuwa (Recipient of “Siyapatha Shilpaloka” Initiative ) , senior management of Siyapatha Finance PLC, and staff members. Also present at the occasion were Wennappuwa Grama Niladhari Ms. Buddika Vidyapathige, Trade Association President Mr. Thilak Dabarera, representatives from government and private banks and insurance companies, and other well-wishers.
Speaking at the ceremony, Siyapatha Finance PLC CEO Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana remarked: "We are deeply honored to be of service to the people of Wennappuwa. Opening this branch takes our expansion strategy into a town built on coconut cultivation, fisheries and a strong base of small and medium-scale entrepreneurs. Reaching communities like this one is what our branch network is for, and we look forward to supporting the ambitions of families and businesses here as we have across the island."
With a comprehensive product portfolio catering to the ever-evolving financial needs of entrepreneurs, small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and ambitious individuals, the Wennappuwa branch offers a range of services including leasing, fixed deposits,  gold financing, business loans, personal loans, fast draft, factoring, and Smart Pay, the Company's  bill payment facility.
Siyapatha Finance PLC, the largest fully owned subsidiary of the Sampath Bank Group, operates an islandwide network of 67 branches, ensuring its customers are provided with the best-in-service delivery standards. The Company has secured a National Long-Term Rating of 'A(lka)' with a Stable Outlook by Fitch Ratings, reflecting solid financial standing and promising growth trajectory. Over the past 21 years, Siyapatha Finance PLC has contributed to the development of small and medium entrepreneurial efforts as well as the fulfillment of individual financial needs across the island.

15.09.2026

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Siyapatha Finance Recognized Among Sri Lanka’s Top 100 Most Valuable Brands

Siyapatha Finance PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s leading financial solutions providers, has been recognized among the Top 100 Most Valuable Brands in Sri Lanka in the Brand Finance Sri Lanka 100 Most Valuable Brands 2026 ranking.

Further strengthening this achievement, Siyapatha Finance has also been ranked among the Top 10 Most Valuable Brands in the Financial Services category, within the non-banking finance sector.

Brand Finance is a global brand valuation and strategy consultancy headquartered in London. Established in 1996, the organization aims to bridge the gap between marketing and finance by measuring the contribution of brands to business value. Brand Finance helps organizations understand, measure and enhance the financial value and strength of their brands through services including brand valuation, brand strength analysis, market research and brand strategy. It also publishes internationally recognized rankings, including the Brand Finance Global 500, which evaluates and compares the world’s most valuable and strongest brands.

Commenting on the recognition, Siyapatha Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana, said:

“Being recognized among  Sri Lanka’s Top 100 Most Valuable Brands and receiving this recognition is a tremendous honour. It is a reflection of the trust we have built with our customers, partners and stakeholders. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our entire team, whose commitment to excellence, innovation and creating meaningful value has continued to strengthen our brand. We are deeply grateful for this recognition and remain committed to building an even stronger and more trusted brand that contributes positively to Sri Lanka’s growth and prosperity.”

According to the Brand Finance Sri Lanka 100 Most Valuable Brands 2026 ranking, Siyapatha Finance has made its maiden entry into Sri Lanka’s Top 100 Most Valuable Brands, recording a brand value of Rs. 1.4 billion and achieving a BBB brand strength rating.

This significant milestone reflects Siyapatha Finance’s continued focus on building customer trust, strengthening its corporate reputation, upholding high standards of compliance and corporate governance, and delivering flexible and accessible financial solutions to customers across Sri Lanka.

The recognition further reinforces Siyapatha Finance’s growing position within Sri Lanka’s financial services landscape and its commitment to creating sustainable value for customers, stakeholders and the wider economy.

15.09.2026

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Full’r Burgers Opens Its 13th Outlet At K Zone Moratuwa

Full’r Burgers, a brand under Giga Foods (Pvt) Ltd, has expanded its restaurant network in Sri Lanka with the opening of its 13th outlet at K Zone Moratuwa on 31 August 2026.
The new Full’r Burgers outlet in Moratuwa brings the brand closer to customers in Moratuwa and surrounding areas. Located within K Zone Moratuwa, the restaurant offers convenient access to the brand’s signature range of Crispy Chicken Burgers, Beef Burgers, Crispy Chicken Rice, Sides and other popular menu items.
The opening forms part of Giga Foods’ strategic focus on expanding the Full’r Burgers footprint across key locations in Sri Lanka. The brand continues to strengthen its market presence through distinctive flavours, a bold identity and dining experiences designed to appeal to a wide range of customers.
Commenting on the opening, Mr.Revan Gunewardene, Chief Commercial Officer stated, “The opening of our 13th Full’r Burgers outlet marks another significant milestone in the brand’s growth journey. Moratuwa is an important market for us, and we are pleased to bring the Full’r Burgers experience closer to customers in the area. We look forward to welcoming them to our newest location at K Zone Moratuwa.”
Strategically located within one of Moratuwa’s popular shopping destinations, the new burger restaurant provides a convenient dining option for shoppers, families and residents seeking quality burgers and satisfying meal choices.
Through the continued expansion of Full’r Burgers and its wider restaurant portfolio, Giga Foods (Pvt) Ltd remains committed to strengthening its brands and delivering quality dining experiences to customers across Sri Lanka.

15.08.2026

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Salesforce Introduces the Trusted Enterprise AI Harness

— Salesforce has introduced its Trusted Enterprise AI Harness, a new architecture designed to help enterprises securely build, manage, and scale AI by providing agents with the context, capabilities, and controls needed to understand business environments, make decisions, and take trusted action.
As the Agentic Enterprise changes how work gets done, AI agents are taking on increasingly complex responsibilities across organisations. They are required to understand information, determine the right next steps, execute actions across systems, and collaborate with people and other agents. Salesforce’s Enterprise AI Harness addresses this challenge by creating a trusted foundation around AI that enables agents to understand the business, reason and plan, take action, and operate within enterprise controls.
The Enterprise AI Harness brings together six trusted capabilities spanning context, agency, action, governance, security, and models through a common, composable architecture built on customer relationships, processes, and controls already running the business. Alongside these capabilities, Salesforce is introducing a new AI Control Plane that provides businesses with a centralised way to see, manage, and control agents and AI as they expand across the enterprise.
The six capabilities include Trusted Context, Trusted Agency, Trusted Action, Trusted Governance, Trusted Security, and Trusted Models. Together, they enable AI to access relevant information, understand customer and business context, determine appropriate actions, securely execute workflows, and operate according to enterprise policies and controls.
Salesforce’s Enterprise AI Harness draws on core technologies across Data 360, Informatica, MuleSoft and Agent Fabric, Tableau, Agentforce, Salesforce Guardian, and Salesforce Platform. This allows organisations to combine Salesforce capabilities with existing technology investments, third-party models, agents, and systems while maintaining flexibility.
Built for choice and openness, the Enterprise AI Harness enables Salesforce capabilities to extend beyond traditional applications into AI experiences where people already work, including Claude, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Agentforce, and other AI platforms. The architecture provides enterprises with greater visibility, governance, and control as AI expands across teams, applications, models, and systems.
Many technologies forming the foundation of Salesforce’s Trusted Enterprise AI Harness are available today, with new capabilities and the unified experience planned to begin rolling out in early fiscal FY28. Existing customers will be able to upgrade eligible Salesforce investments to unlock new capabilities as they become available. Additional details on availability, packaging, pricing, and upgrade paths will be announced closer to general availability.
The architecture helps businesses create a durable foundation where proprietary context becomes a source of differentiation as AI evolves.

15.09.2026

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Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit 2026 to Examine How Sri Lanka Can Strengthen Its Place in Asia’s Growth Networks

As Asia continues to account for a growing share of global economic activity, Sri Lanka faces an important opportunity to strengthen its links with regional trade networks, supply chains and economic corridors. How the country can make better use of these connections to attract investment, expand trade and strengthen its position in regional value chains will be among the key questions at the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026, organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 12-13 October 2026.
Titled “Linking Sri Lanka to Asia’s Growth Networks: Trade, Corridors, and Value Chains,” the session will examine the opportunities for Sri Lanka to deepen its integration with the wider Asian economy and build stronger connections with regional and global markets.
The session keynote will be delivered by Mr. P.D Singh – Chief Executive Officer, India and South Asia, Standard Chartered Bank. He will be joined for a panel discussion by Hon. Chathuranga Abeysinghe - Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, H.E. Akio ISOMATA - Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Mr. MASAAKI Kawabata - Chairman - Toyota Lanka (Private) Limited, and Mr. Ravi Jayawardena - Group Chief Executive Officer-Maliban Biscuits (Private) Limited. The session will be moderated by Ms. Subhashini Abeysinghe - Research Director- Verité Research.
For Sri Lanka, stronger regional integration can open opportunities beyond traditional export markets. Greater participation in regional supply chains, improved trade connectivity and closer links to economic corridors can support investment in areas such as logistics, manufacturing, export services and other sectors connected to international production networks.
The discussion will consider what Sri Lanka needs to do to strengthen its position within these networks, including improving trade connectivity, attracting investment and creating a business environment that enables companies to participate more effectively in regional and global value chains.
It will also look at the experience of businesses and international institutions operating across the region, providing perspectives on how companies assess markets, build supply chains and identify locations for investment. With supply chains and investment flows increasingly shaped by regional connectivity, the session will also consider the partnerships and strategies needed to position Sri Lanka as a more competitive participant in Asia’s growth networks, while creating opportunities for trade, investment, innovation and economic growth.
The session will form part of the second day of SLEIS 2026, held under the theme “Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy.”
The Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 is supported by its valued sponsors and partners. Platinum Sponsor – Standard Chartered Bank Sri Lanka, Gold Sponsor – VISA Worldwide (Pvt) Ltd., Bronze Sponsor – South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd., Strategic Development Partner – Asian Development Bank, Telecommunication Partner – Dialog Telecommunication, Television Partner – Dialog Television, Session Sponsors – David Pieris Motor Company (Pvt) Ltd., Hemas Holdings PLC, Sunshine Holdings PLC, International Construction Consortium (Pvt) Ltd., Official Logistics Partner – Hayleys Advantis Limited, Official Airline – SriLankan Airlines Ltd., Official Hospitality Partner – Shangri-La Colombo, Airline Partner – China Eastern Air Holding Co. Ltd.

15.08.2026

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Hayleys Solar Commissions 3MW Veyangoda Ground-Mounted Solar Project

Hayleys Solar, Sri Lanka’s No. 1 renewable energy solutions provider, marked a major milestone in its renewable energy journey with the opening of its 3MW Veyangoda Ground-Mounted Solar Project, with Hon. Anura Karunathilake, Minister of Energy, gracing the occasion.
The project marks the first of Hayleys Solar’s planned 300MW portfolio of ground-mounted solar power projects across Sri Lanka, further strengthening its commitment to expanding large-scale renewable energy solutions.
Hayleys Solar is part of Hayleys Fentons Limited, under the Hayleys Group - Sri Lanka's most diversified blue-chip conglomerate with a business legacy spanning nearly 150 years across 17 sectors. The Veyangoda project reflects the Group's continued investment in expanding its renewable energy footprint in line with its long-standing commitment to sustainable innovation and nation-building.
Located adjacent to the Aththanagalla Oya, the project was designed to withstand challenging environmental conditions, including potential flooding during heavy rainfall. Following a detailed assessment using historical data from the Irrigation Department, Hayleys Solar implemented an elevated solar mounting structure with increased clearance and safety margins, together with elevated inverter supports and customised cable routing systems to enhance the project’s resilience.
Highlighting the importance of private sector participation in Sri Lanka’s energy transition, Hon. Anura Karunathilake, Minister of Energy, said: “Building a secure and sustainable energy future for Sri Lanka requires us to harness the potential of renewable energy while encouraging greater participation from the private sector. Projects such as these demonstrate how investment, innovation and climate-resilient solutions can come together to support this national priority. We encourage more such initiatives that can strengthen our renewable energy capacity and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable Sri Lanka.”
Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited, said: “The Veyangoda project demonstrates our commitment to developing renewable energy solutions that respond to the realities of our environment. By integrating climate-resilient engineering with innovative land utilisation, we have created a solar installation that not only withstands challenging site conditions but also delivers greater value from the available land.”
The project comprises 4,143.36 kWp of DC capacity and 3MW of AC capacity, featuring 640W bifacial solar panels, and is expected to generate approximately 6,351,770.88 kWh of clean electricity annually - enough to meet the annual electricity needs of around 2,700 average Sri Lankan households¹ while avoiding approximately 4,339.53 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year.
With an average clearance of approximately 2.7 metres above ground level, the elevated structure also enables productive use of the land beneath the solar panels. As part of an agrivoltaic initiative, the space will support the cultivation of vegetables such as Scotch bonnet pepper and brinjal, enabling agricultural production alongside renewable energy generation.
Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy, Hayleys Fentons Limited, said: “Our Veyangoda project showcases how innovative solar designs can deliver multiple benefits from a single site. The elevated configuration enhances flood resilience while improving airflow beneath the panels and supporting greater utilisation of reflected sunlight through bifacial technology. The planned agrivoltaic initiative further demonstrates how renewable energy generation and agriculture can coexist productively.”
The Veyangoda project reinforces Hayleys Solar’s commitment to advancing resilient, sustainable and innovative renewable energy solutions while supporting Sri Lanka’s transition towards a cleaner energy future.

15.09.2026

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The future of aging lies in preventive health: Christell shines a spotlight on longevity

Christell Luxury Wellness hosted ‘Age Gracefully’, an exclusive evening bringing longevity, preventive health, regenerative medicine, beauty and wellness into the spotlight. Held at The Shoppes at City of Dreams, the event brought together distinguished guests, industry leaders and luxury wellness partners around a critical question that frames our everyday lives: How can we live longer, healthier and better?
At the heart of the evening was an overview of longevity and preventive health led by Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne, CEO & Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Specialist of Christell Luxury Wellness. The event focused on the concept of longevity through a luxury wellness experience, encouraging people to focus on their long-term health through awareness, preventive measures, health optimization and a proactive mindset to ageing.
While the global conversation around longevity is rapidly growing, Christell's emphasis on longevity and preventive health has been built for over 30 years. As a trusted name and trendsetter in Sri Lanka's beauty and wellness industry, Christell has continuously evolved with advances in science, technology and regenerative medicine. Age Gracefully represents the next chapter of that journey — advancing beyond looking good to living healthier and ageing better.
Guests experienced this philosophy through interactive health and wellness experiences, including a “Check Your Health Status” quiz, Vitamin Level Test demonstration and Hair Scan demonstration, alongside luxury beauty, fragrance and wellness experiences by Exclusive Lines, Zam Gems and Dilmah.
The evening highlighted an important shift in modern lifestyle that has become prevalent around the world: prevention begins long before illness strikes, and good health and longevity are closely intertwined. As Sri Lanka begins to embrace this new conversation, Christell continues to champion a future where beauty, science, preventive health, regenerative medicine and longevity come together. The measure of a healthy life is no longer simply to live longer – it is to live better, for longer.

04.09.2026

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From Sri Lanka to the Global Stage: Maliban’s HumanTill Wins Crystal at MAD STARS 2026

Maliban’s purpose-driven HumaniTill: It’s a Second Chance to Life campaign has achieved international recognition by winning a Crystal Award at MAD STARS 2026 under the Brand Experience & Activation Stars | Culture & Context category, marking another milestone for Sri Lankan creativity on the global stage.
The recognition celebrates a campaign that transformed a simple yet powerful idea rooted in empathy into a meaningful brand experience, demonstrating how creativity can go beyond communication to create positive social impact.
MAD STARS, one of Asia’s most recognised global creative platforms, celebrates innovative ideas across advertising, marketing, and brand experiences. The awards recognise work that demonstrates creativity, cultural relevance, strategic thinking, and the ability to create meaningful connections with audiences, positioning winning work among the region’s most impactful creative initiatives.
The HumaniTill campaign was introduced under the Maliban Jeewithaloka Programme, with the aim of becoming a source of strength and hope for Sri Lankans facing life-changing challenges. The initiative was carried out in collaboration with the Meththa Foundation, a humanitarian organisation that has been supporting people with disabilities for over three decades by providing customised artificial limbs and helping them regain mobility, independence, and confidence.
Unlike a conventional donation box, HumaniTill was designed as a life-sized human figure featuring a transparent arm and leg, symbolising individuals who have lost limbs due to accidents or illness. The installation served as a powerful reminder of the importance of giving and the possibility of providing someone with a second chance at life.
The Crystal Award at MAD STARS 2026 further reinforces the impact of HumaniTill, recognising the campaign’s ability to combine purpose, creativity, and community participation into a powerful brand experience.

Commenting on the recognition, Positha Perera, Group Head, Corporate Communications at Maliban Group of Companies, stated, “At Maliban, inspiring goodness is a way of life. Through HumaniTill, our aim was to give people not only mobility, but a second chance at life. This recognition at MAD STARS 2026 is a testament to the power of meaningful ideas and the collective effort of everyone who supported this initiative. We are grateful to the Meththa Foundation for their invaluable contribution in helping bring hope and opportunity to those who need it most.”

The recognition at MAD STARS 2026 adds to Maliban’s growing portfolio of purpose-led initiatives that create meaningful impact beyond its role as one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted household brands.

Through HumaniTill, Maliban continues to demonstrate that creativity can inspire compassion, encourage action, and help transform lives, reinforcing its commitment to building a society driven by goodness, empathy, and hope.

14.09.2026

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Sathosa Motors Secures ISO 9001:2015 Certification, Strengthening Quality Standards

By Vipula Amarasinghe

Sathosa Motors PLC (SML), the authorised distributor of Isuzu vehicles in Sri Lanka, has secured ISO 9001:2015 certification, strengthening its focus on quality management, customer satisfaction and operational excellence across its business operations.
The certification was awarded by Bureau Veritas Certification Holding SAS – UK Branch following an audit of the company’s management system. The internationally recognised certification confirms that Sathosa Motors’ management system complies with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System standard.
The certification covers several key areas of the company’s operations, including the import and sale of brand-new Isuzu vehicles, the sale of Isuzu Genuine Spare Parts, and after-sales services covering vehicle repair and maintenance.
According to Sathosa Motors, the certification provides a structured framework for maintaining consistent processes throughout the customer journey, from purchasing an Isuzu vehicle to obtaining genuine spare parts and accessing after-sales services.
The certification is also significant for the company as it applies on a multi-site basis, extending beyond its head office in Colombo to a number of locations within the Sathosa Motors network.
These include the company’s workshops in Peliyagoda, Vauxhall Street and Kurunegala, as well as genuine spare-parts operations in Rathnapura, Badulla, Dambulla, Kandy, Panchikawatta, Matara, Kurunegala and Negombo.
The multi-site certification reflects the company’s efforts to maintain common quality-management practices across its network and provide customers with consistent service standards at different locations.
Sathosa Motors said the achievement goes beyond recognition under an international standard, providing a framework to further strengthen process discipline, accountability, service consistency and continuous improvement within the organisation.
The certification comes as Sathosa Motors continues to develop the presence of Isuzu in the Sri Lankan automotive market. The company expects the strengthened quality-management framework to contribute towards greater customer confidence in its vehicles, genuine spare parts and after-sales support.
Sathosa Motors is also expected to continue developing its internal processes and workforce as part of its broader focus on operational excellence and improving the ownership experience for Isuzu customers.
The ISO 9001:2015 certification marks another step in the company’s efforts to establish quality management as an ongoing part of its business operations while responding to changing customer expectations in Sri Lanka’s automotive sector.

12.09.2026

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Capacity-Building by CDB Empowers SME Entrepreneurs in Kandy

• SMBPlus drives capacity building reaffirming CDB commitment to inclusive economic growth
• Women entrepreneurs encompass over 75% of participants

Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) reiterated its commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka's small and medium enterprise (SME) sector with an SMB Capacity-Building Programme in Kandy. Held on August 3rd at the Divisional Secretariat Hall B, the programme was driven under CDB's SMBPlus as part of CDB's broader strategy to support entrepreneurs beyond conventional financial services. The focus instead is on equipping them with the knowledge, tools and confidence needed to build resilient businesses.

Notably, more than 75% of the participants were women entrepreneurs, underscoring CDB's continued emphasis on advancing women's economic empowerment across the island's business community, reinforcing them as an integral facet of the nation’s economy.

The programme collated local business owners for a day of practical learning, business development insights and valuable networking opportunities aimed at supporting long-term, sustainable growth. Participants engaged in interactive knowledge-sharing sessions led by industry experts, covering key areas of business development and growth strategy.

Beyond the formal sessions, entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to network, exchange experiences and explore potential future collaborations with fellow business owners in the region — reflecting CDB's belief that community and shared learning are as vital to SME success as capital itself.

Commenting on the initiative, Chamath Siriwardana, Senior Assistant General Manager — Finance, said, "Our commitment to Sri Lanka's SME sector goes far beyond financing. Capacity-Building Programmes like these allow us to support entrepreneurs, particularly women in business, and give them the practical knowledge and networks needed to grow with confidence. Empowering our SMEs is central to building a more resilient and inclusive economy for the country."

The Kandy programme follows the success of the CDB SMB Fair – Kandy, reinforcing the Company's sustained engagement with the region's SME community, well beyond simply providing marketplace access. Together, these initiatives reflect CDB's sustainability-driven approach to creating long-term value for entrepreneurs and fostering inclusive economic development across Sri Lanka.

Through these initiatives, CDB continues to reaffirm its role as a long-term partner to Sri Lanka's entrepreneurs — combining knowledge-sharing, capacity building and sustainable partnerships to help SMEs grow into stronger, more resilient businesses that contribute meaningfully to the nation's economic development.

12.09.2026

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Siyapatha Finance PLC partners with the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) for Carbon Accounting Standards

Strengthening Climate Accountability Through Global Carbon Accounting Standards

Siyapatha Finance PLC has announced its official membership in the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), marking a significant milestone in the Company's sustainability journey and reinforcing its commitment to responsible finance and climate action.
The membership reflects Siyapatha Finance's continued efforts to integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into its business strategy while supporting the transition towards a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.
PCAF is a collaboration of more than 770 financial institutions across six continents, working together to develop and implement a harmonized framework for measuring and disclosing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with financial activities. By joining PCAF, Siyapatha Finance will adopt the global standard  for measuring emissions associated with financial activities and further strengthen its climate-related disclosures.
Recognizing the financial sector's role in addressing climate change, Siyapatha Finance will use the PCAF framework to better understand emissions associated with its financing portfolio, enabling more informed decision-making on climate-related risks and sustainable finance opportunities while aligning with evolving global sustainability standards.
Siyapatha Finance PLC Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mathisha Hewavitharana said: "Joining PCAF reflects Siyapatha Finance's long-term vision of embedding sustainability into our business strategy. As climate-related expectations continue to evolve, this partnership strengthens our ability to advance responsible finance while contributing to Sri Lanka's transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy."
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Siyapatha Finance PLC Senior Regional Manager Mr. Amila Bambarandage said: "By adopting global best practices in carbon accounting, we are strengthening our ability to make informed financing decisions, enhance climate transparency and contribute meaningfully to Sri Lanka's journey towards a low-carbon and sustainable future."
By joining PCAF, Siyapatha Finance becomes part of a growing global network of financial institutions committed to embedding carbon accountability into financial decision-making. This milestone further reinforces the company's leadership in sustainable finance while supporting long-term value creation for customers, stakeholders, communities and the environment.

1109.2026

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Sri Lankan Corporate Health & Productivity Awards 2026 Unveiled to Recognise Organisations Building Healthier, More Productive Workplaces

The Sri Lankan Corporate Health & Productivity Awards (SLCHPA) 2026 was officially launched today, introducing an enhanced edition of the prestigious platform that recognises organisations committed to strengthening employee wellbeing, workplace health and productivity across Sri Lanka. The launch marks the beginning of a new chapter for an initiative that continues to encourage businesses to place their people at the centre of organisational success. Organised by the Chamber of Lankan Entrepreneurs (COYLE), in partnership with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and powered by Sampath Bank PLC as the Title Partner, SLCHPA 2026 aims to celebrate organisations that recognise the importance of investing in their people as a foundation for sustainable business growth. Through this partnership, JETRO brings Japanese expertise and global perspectives on workplace wellbeing and productivity, further strengthening the Awards’ focus on promoting internationally relevant workplace practices across Sri Lanka. Since its inception, SLCHPA has evolved into a platform that encourages businesses to look beyond traditional measures of success and recognise the role of a healthy, engaged workforce in driving organisational performance. Over the years, the Awards have highlighted organisations that have introduced impactful workplace initiatives while inspiring companies across sectors to continuously improve their approach towards employee wellbeing, workplace culture and productivity

Building on this strong foundation, SLCHPA 2026 will be bigger and better, with a renewed focus on recognising more organisations, showcasing innovative workplace initiatives and creating greater value for participating companies. The Awards will provide businesses with an opportunity to benchmark their practices, gain national recognition and demonstrate their commitment towards creating workplaces where employees can thrive. The importance of workplace health and productivity continues to grow as organisations navigate an evolving business landscape. By creating supportive work environments, companies can enhance employee wellbeing and engagement, strengthen workplace culture, improve talent retention and drive long-term sustainability. Through SLCHPA 2026, organisations will have the opportunity to showcase how investing in people creates meaningful value for employees and employers alike. Commenting on the launch, Suren Chandraratna, Chairman of COYLE, said, “SLCHPA was created to recognise organisations that understand the importance of their people and the connection between employee wellbeing and business success. Through this initiative, we aim to encourage

more companies to prioritise healthier workplaces and create a positive impact across Sri Lanka’s business community.” To ensure that the Awards maintain credibility and recognise genuine workplace excellence, the SLCHPA 2026 evaluation process will follow a structured and transparent approach. Organisations can participate by submitting their applications under relevant categories, highlighting their workplace initiatives, employee wellbeing programmes, productivity improvements and measurable outcomes. These submissions will then undergo a detailed assessment based on established criteria, with winners selected across categories based on their demonstrated commitment and excellence in workplace practices. With applications and registrations for SLCHPA 2026 opening soon, organisations of all sizes and sectors are invited to participate in this prestigious platform. Companies are encouraged to showcase their achievements, gain recognition for their workplace initiatives and become part of a national movement that celebrates healthier, more productive and future-ready workplaces in Sri Lanka.

11.09.02026

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The Colombo Border by Prime Lands Residencies PLC is a landmark residential development that redefines urban living at the gateway to Colombo. Situated in the rapidly emerging residential hub of Peliyagoda, the project has been designed to offer a complete lifestyle experience that combines convenience, connectivity, recreation, sustainability, and community living.
Spread across approximately 6.5 acres of Prime real estate, The Colombo Border comprises three residential towers, Brielle, Cosmos, and Amaa, offering thoughtfully designed two- and three-bedroom residences and few four-bedroom penthouses. Approximately 5 acres of the development have been dedicated to landscaped gardens, leisure spaces, recreational amenities, and open green areas, creating a vibrant and enriching environment where residents may enjoy a balanced lifestyle surrounded by comfort, convenience, and nature.
The completion of the superstructure of all three towers marks a major milestone for The Colombo Border, bringing one of Colombo's largest integrated residential developments significantly closer to completion with handover set to commence from 2027 mid onwards.
The pace at which the project has advanced reflects the strength of the construction planning behind it, as well as the coordinated execution of two specialized engineering teams working in parallel across the site. Prime Construction (Pvt) Ltd, the Group’s in-house construction arm, leads the construction of two towers, while Sanken Lanka (Pvt) Ltd leads the construction of the other tower.
The successful completion of the superstructure of all three towers, achieved through the coordinated efforts of two dedicated construction teams, reflects the meticulous planning, seamless execution, and engineering excellence of Prime Lands Residencies PLC.
Redefining modern condominium living in Sri Lanka, The Colombo Border offers residents an exceptional lifestyle through its strategic location, expansive green spaces, premium amenities, sustainable design, and a strong sense of community. The development has earned the confidence of homeowners and investors alike. With Tower Cosmos now completely sold out with limited two and three BR apartments are available starting from Rupees 48M upwards, the project reflects The Colombo Border’s outstanding market appeal and long-term investment potential. The Colombo Border presents an ideal opportunity for existing homeowners looking to expand their investment portfolio, as well as new buyers seeking a future-ready home in one of Colombo's fastest-growing residential destinations.
Commenting on the milestone, Sandamini Perera, Chairperson of Prime Lands Residencies PLC said, “The completion of the superstructures across all three towers represents another important achievement for the Group and for the wider development of the project.” She noted that maintaining this pace of construction, without compromising on quality, reflected the Group's consistent commitment to delivering its projects on schedule, adding, “The trust placed in the Prime brand by buyers is valued at every stage of the project. It represents an investment in which the company will continue to honor with quality engineering and construction excellence as The Colombo Border moves into its next phase.”
As The Colombo Border progresses steadily towards completion Prime Lands Residencies PLC continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to creating more than just another residential development. Conceived as a landmark lifestyle destination, The Colombo Border reflects the company's vision of shaping the future of urban living through exceptional design, superior construction quality, and enduring value. With Tower Cosmos already sold out, and a strong demand for Towers Brielle and Amaa, the development stands as a testament to the confidence buyers place in Prime Lands Residencies PLC and its ability to deliver transformative communities that redefine Colombo's residential landscape.

11.09.2026

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Groundworth Launches ‘Antara’ - Exclusive Land Release in the Heart of Thalawathugoda

Groundworth (Pvt) Ltd has launched “Antara by Groundworth”, an exclusive land development in the heart of Thalawathugoda, one of Colombo’s most established and sought-after residential suburbs. Located within the belt of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte and minutes from the Battaramulla administrative hub, Antara offers 12 premium residential plots in a mature, peaceful and well-connected neighbourhood.  
Positioned within an established residential setting, Antara combines the ease of a fully developed address with quick access to schools, healthcare, retail, and key transportation hubs. Given the growing scarcity of land in this area, the development presents a chance to establish a presence in a proven, high-value location. 
Commenting on the launch, Kasun Andrahennadi, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Groundworth Group, stated: “Antara is about acquiring a place in one of Colombo's most established residential areas, where the strength of the surrounding neighbourhood is just as valuable as the land itself. We have created a limited opportunity for customers to build in a mature setting while being close to schools, healthcare, retail, transportation, and Sri Lanka's administrative heart.” 
Antara is located just 1 km from the Battaramulla–Pannipitiya Road, the main arterial road that connects the area, Thalawathugoda Town and Junction. Battaramulla, Parliament, and Colombo's administrative district - a key location within the capital - are all approximately 3 km away and easily accessible. Additionally, the development is surrounded by a range of recreational and daily amenities. Diyasaru Park is approximately 1.7 km from Antara, and Hemas Hospital, Thalawathugoda, is only 1 km away. Keells at Capital Mall is around 1.2 km away, with SPAR, Arpico, and GLOMARK also located nearby. St Nicholas International College and Vidura College are approximately 2 km from the development, offering convenient access to education for families.  
With land sizes starting from 6.5 perches, the development offers the necessary infrastructure for those wishing to build a home in a well-established urban environment, featuring well-developed 22-ft-wide access roads, electricity and pipe-borne water connections, clear deeds, and a peaceful, green, and secure residential setting. Land prices start at LKR 3.3 million per perch.

11.09.2026

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Hayleys Electronics and SolaX Power Take Smart Energy Innovation from Colombo to the Island

Hayleys Electronics Limited, in collaboration with SolaX Power, brought together over 300 industry professionals and stakeholders in Colombo for ‘Unlocking the Power of Tomorrow’, an exclusive knowledge-sharing event focused on the future of intelligent energy solutions.
Held at The Kingsbury Colombo, the event explored advancements in smart inverter technology, hybrid energy storage and intelligent energy management, highlighting how technology is transforming the way energy is generated, stored and managed.
The Colombo event marks the beginning of an islandwide awareness and knowledge-sharing programme by Hayleys Electronics and SolaX Power, which will continue across Sri Lanka in the coming weeks. SolaX Power, Sri Lanka’s No. 1 selling battery and inverter brand, is represented exclusively by Hayleys Electronics as its authorised dealer. The upcoming sessions have been strategically planned across Galle, Negombo, Kurunegala, Jaffna and Trincomalee to extend the programme’s reach beyond Colombo and connect stakeholders across the island with the latest developments in smart energy technologies.
Speaking on the initiative, Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons, said, “The transition towards smarter energy is about creating systems that are more intelligent, efficient and adaptable. Through our collaboration with SolaX Power, we are bringing global technological expertise closer to Sri Lankan stakeholders and supporting the country’s journey towards a smarter and more sustainable energy future.”
Clyde Gabriel, Chief Operating Officer, Hayleys Electronics Limited, said, “Unlocking the Power of Tomorrow reflects our commitment to creating greater awareness of the technologies shaping the next generation of energy solutions. Through direct knowledge-sharing with SolaX Power’s global team, we aim to equip industry professionals with insights into smarter energy technologies and strengthen access to globally recognised solutions in Sri Lanka.”
The programme will continue with sessions at Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle on 5 September; Seedüwa Ramsis, Negombo on 8 September; The Epitome Hotel, Kurunegala on 11 September; Jetwing Jaffna on 15 September; and Coral Bay Hotel, Trincomalee on 18 September.

09.09.2026

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Port City Colombo Strengthens Gulf Investment Ties at ‘Sri Lanka Beyond Your Dreams’ in Dubai

Port City Colombo participated as Platinum Sponsor at the second edition of Sri Lanka Beyond Your Dreams, a landmark diplomatic and investment engagement hosted by the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai and the Northern Emirates at the Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City on 2nd September 2026. The evening brought together over 400 senior UAE-based business leaders, investors, diplomats, and institutional stakeholders alongside Sri Lanka's most senior government representatives.
The event was graced by H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates, as Guest of Honour and Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka.
The event was further elevated by the presence of a high-level Sri Lankan government delegation, underscoring the Government of Sri Lanka's strong commitment to deepening economic diplomacy with the UAE. The delegation included Mr. G. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister; Mr. Duminda Hulangamuwa, Chairman of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka; Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman of the Export Development Board; and Mr. Somasena Mahadiulwela, Director General of Commerce.
H.E. Prof. Arusha Cooray, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the United Arab Emirates, acknowledged and appreciated the tireless efforts of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai in organising and executing an event of this magnitude and prestige, underscoring the significance of the evening as a platform for deepening the bilateral economic relationship between Sri Lanka and the UAE.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Herath reaffirmed the centuries-old relationship between Sri Lanka and the Arab region, emphasising the UAE's vital role as a key economic partner. He underscored the critical importance of finalising a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, which he noted would establish a robust framework to elevate trade, investment, and bilateral economic cooperation to new heights, and affirmed that Sri Lanka is open and ready for business as a reliable partner for Gulf investments.
Pointing to the practical vehicle through which the deepening UAE-Sri Lanka partnership can be realised, Minister Herath noted: “As a SEZ with a dedicated legal and regulatory framework and competitive incentives, Port City Colombo is where Sri Lanka’s economic mission becomes a physical reality. For UAE businesses and investors, PCC offers a modern and internationally designed platform and a natural gateway to South Asia’s growth, while keeping you connected to the opportunities and strengths of the Gulf.”
H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, addressing the gathering as Guest of Honour, highlighted Sri Lanka's growing relevance to UAE investors. “Sri Lanka offers considerable opportunities for our investment community, which continues to seek long-term, high-impact projects in growing economies. From immediate reconstruction needs to the immense potential of its logistics, technology, and tourism sectors, Sri Lanka stands out as one of the most appealing destinations for UAE capital,” he said.
Port City Colombo's participation as Platinum Sponsor reflected its role as one of Sri Lanka's primary investment propositions to the GCC region. Mr. Harsha Amarasekera PC, Chairman of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, addressed attendees on the regulatory framework and investment proposition underpinning the SEZ. “Port City Colombo is not simply a development project. It is Sri Lanka's gateway for international investment and a strategic bridge between the GCC and South Asia," he said. “At a time when Gulf investors are increasingly seeking diversified, resilient, and globally connected growth platforms, Port City Colombo offers a compelling proposition: a modern Special Economic Zone with an internationally benchmarked regulatory framework, a trusted and neutral business environment, and direct access to one of the world's fastest-growing regions.” He further noted that for GCC businesses, Port City Colombo serves as a complementary extension of their regional operations, enabling capital, enterprise, talent, and innovation to flow seamlessly between the Middle East and South Asia.
Mr. Thulci Aluwihare, Deputy Managing Director of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd, highlighted the progress of the development, with over USD 2 billion in investments secured to date and a target of exceeding USD 4 billion in the coming years. He also outlined the opportunities available within the SEZ for UAE businesses seeking to invest, establish, or expand their presence in South Asia, spanning real estate development, financial services, regional headquarters, and business continuity operations.
Delivering the closing remarks, H.E. Alexi Gunasekera, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, spoke to Sri Lanka's ongoing transformation: "Sri Lanka is ready to welcome you as a strategic partner in business, trade, and tourism. We invite you to invest, collaborate, and actively participate in shaping a transformative future for Sri Lanka beyond your dreams," he said.
The evening also saw the signing of an investment promotion agreement between the Colombo Port City Economic Commission and CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd. and the Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone Authority, formalising a new institutional partnership between the two special economic zones. The agreement was signed by Mr. Johnson Modayil George, General Manager, on behalf of the Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone Authority, and by Mr. Revan Wickramasuriya, Director General of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, and Mr. Thulci Aluwihare, Deputy Managing Director of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd., on behalf of Port City Colombo.
The first formal partnership of its kind between Port City Colombo and a UAE free zone authority, the partnership creates a direct and institutionally supported route into South Asia's most internationally enabled business platform for UAE-based businesses; for Port City Colombo's growing community of registered businesses, it opens structured access to the UAE's well-established free zone ecosystem

09.09.2026

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A World of Privileges, Just a Visa Card Away: Redefining Premium Experiences for Sri Lankan Consumers

A World of Privileges, Just a Visa Card Away: Redefining Premium Experiences for Sri Lankan Consumers

The way Sri Lankan consumers define premium living is evolving. Today, affluent consumers are increasingly looking beyond traditional measures of success and placing greater value on experiences that create lasting memories, personalized services, and greater convenience.

Whether it is travelling to new destinations, enjoying exceptional hospitality, discovering unique dining experiences or accessing lifestyle benefits that complement their everyday lives, consumers are seeking experiences that are meaningful and tailored to their preferences.

Responding to this changing lifestyle landscape, Sampath Bank PLC, in partnership with Visa, has introduced the Sampath Bank Private Banking Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card, bringing a new premium lifestyle proposition to Sri Lanka.

Designed for Sri Lanka’s affluent consumers, Visa Infinite Privilege, one of the highest-tier Visa credit card, goes beyond everyday payments by offering access to curated benefits across travel, hospitality, dining, leisure and lifestyle experiences - meeting consumers where they are today, with privileges that support a more bespoke way of living, travelling and experiencing the world.

A More Rewarding Way to Travel the World

For many Sri Lankan consumers, travel has become an important part of modern lifestyle, with greater interest in discovering new places while enjoying comfort, convenience and personalized experiences.

Through Visa Infinite Privilege, cardholders can access premium travel and hospitality benefits designed to make their journeys more rewarding.

• Love a stay with extras: ALL Accor+ Explorer brings hotel privileges, dining benefits and special offers across Accor’s hospitality network.
• Seamless journeys over travel hassles: Visa Infinite Privilege provides expedited airport processing, priority access, and elevated travel benefits tailored for affluent travelers
• Prefer being recognized on arrival: Banyan Group’s with Banyan programme adds enhanced recognition and privileges for a more personal hospitality experience.
• Personalized itineraries over copy-paste holidays: Essentialist offers curated travel recommendations and experiences shaped around individual preferences.

 

Dining That Goes Beyond the Plate

Dining has become an important part of how consumers celebrate occasions, connect with others and discover new experiences.

With specially created Infinite Taste | Beyond The Menu programme for the refreshed Visa Infinite portfolio, Visa Infinite Privilege cardholders get access to a curated dining proposition that goes beyond restaurant reservations, truly taking them beyond the menu and bringing them closer to chef-led concepts, exclusive tables and thoughtfully designed culinary experiences.

Built for consumers who see dining as a way to explore, celebrate and connect, the proposition turns exceptional meals into memorable moments shaped around access, craft and discovery.

Privilege, Built into Everyday Living

Modern consumers increasingly value access that makes everyday life feel more rewarding and  personal - from the brands they engage with to the leisure experiences they choose.

Through Harrods Rewards Gold Tier, Visa Infinite Privilege cardholders can access rewards and selected benefits from one of the world’s most recognized retail destinations, adding a touch of global refinement to their lifestyle choices.

For those who enjoy leisure with a sense of occasion, the Visa Golf Programme offers access to premium golfing benefits, bringing together sport, networking and relaxation as part of a more curated way of living. Extending this focus on exclusive sporting experiences, Visa Infinite Privilege also gives cardholders two complimentary padel game sessions annually, opening access to one of the world’s fastest-growing premium sports.

Premium living today is about more than ownership. It is about access, convenience and experiences that add value to everyday life.

The Sampath Bank Private Banking Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card reflects this changing mindset by bringing together a range of carefully curated benefits designed around the evolving expectations of Sri Lankan consumers.

By combining Sampath Bank’s Private Banking expertise with Visa’s premium lifestyle ecosystem, the proposition enables cardholders to experience more from their everyday spending, whether they are travelling, dining, relaxing or exploring new experiences.

For Sri Lankan consumers looking for a more rewarding way to access premium experiences, a world of privileges is now just a Visa card away.

09.09.2026

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Maliban Group Shines with Two Gold Dragons Among Seven Accolades at Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026

The Maliban Group of Companies has been recognised for creative excellence and impactful brand communication at the Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026 Awards, securing an impressive tally of two Gold Dragons, one Silver Dragon, two Bronze Dragons, and two Black Dragons across multiple categories.
The recognition highlights the Group’s continued commitment to developing purposeful campaigns that connect with consumers through creativity, innovation, and strategic execution. The awarded campaigns spanned experiential marketing, sustainability, media, content creation, brand trials, sales generation, and brand activation and awareness, reflecting the Group’s ability to create meaningful brand experiences across its diverse business categories.
The Dragons of Sri Lanka Awards represent one of the country’s most respected platforms recognising excellence in marketing effectiveness and communication. As an official extension of the Dragons of Asia, the awards are part of a globally recognised network celebrating results-driven marketing excellence since 2000. The Dragons of Asia is positioned alongside leading international marketing effectiveness platforms such as the Cannes Lions, Effie Awards, and IPA Effectiveness Awards, making recognition at the Dragons a significant benchmark for brands and agencies across the region.
For the Maliban Group of Companies, this achievement reflects the strength of campaigns developed through strategic insight, creative excellence, and purposeful brand engagement. The seven recognitions demonstrate the Group’s ability to create impactful communication that builds meaningful connections with consumers.
The “Maliban Chocolate Biscuits. Kids Will Do Anything for This Taste” campaign for Maliban Biscuit Manufactories Sri Lanka received a Gold Dragon in the Brand Activation and/or Awareness category, while “The Superhero That Replaced Child Advertising” campaign for Maliban Dairy & Agri Products Sri Lanka secured a Gold Dragon in the Content Creation category, recognising their ability to create engaging and impactful consumer experiences.
The “HumanTill. A Lived Experience of Giving” campaign for Maliban Biscuit Manufactories Sri Lanka secured a Silver Dragon in the Event or Experiential category and a Bronze Dragon in the Cause, Environment or Sustainability category. The “The One Breath Challenge” campaign received a Bronze Dragon in the Media category and a Black Dragon in the Creative Excellence category, while the “Maliban Kiri Consumer Promo” campaign for Maliban Milk Products Group Sri Lanka received a Black Dragon in the Brand Trial or Sales Generation category.
The achievement reflects the collective efforts of the Maliban Group’s teams and agency partners, whose collaboration transformed creative ideas into campaigns that generated meaningful engagement and impact. The recognition reinforces the Group’s focus on developing communication that is relevant, purposeful, and connected with consumers.
With a legacy spanning more than seven decades, the Maliban Group of Companies continues to combine its heritage with contemporary approaches to creativity, innovation, and brand building. The recognition at Dragons of Sri Lanka 2026 further strengthens the Group’s commitment to creating work that challenges conventions, builds stronger consumer relationships, and delivers meaningful outcomes across its diverse businesses.

09.09.2026

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47th AGM of the Sri Lanka – Japan Business Council of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce

The Sri Lanka – Japan Business Council (SLJBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently held its 47th AGM, with the Ambassador of Japan and the Patron of the Council, His Excellency Akio ISOMATA, attending  as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador  ISOMATA outlined three priorities for deepening bilateral economic relations: an effective and forward-looking trade and investment policy, the promotion of domestic industrial policy, and expanded investment in renewable energy. He noted that Sri Lanka's ongoing review of its Free Trade Agreement policy would be important in shaping the country's future negotiating landscape. He encouraged Sri Lanka to look Eastward toward Southeast Asia and Japan, proposing that the country adopt an export-oriented industrial model.  The Ambassador welcomed the Government's National Export Development Plan 2026 and National Mineral Policy 2026 as consistent with Japan's vision of connecting Sri Lanka's export-related manufacturing sectors with India's high-growth manufacturing base.

In his address, President Athulla R F Edirisinghe reflected on nearly seven decades of humanitarian and development support extended by Japan to Sri Lanka, and paid tribute to the Chairman of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, for his magnanimity in establishing the Foundation. Reflecting on the history of Japanese investment in the region from the 1970s onward, he observed that Sri Lanka had missed many opportunities to attract  Japanese foreign direct investment. Highlighting the 2025 proposal for a Sri Lanka – Japan Economic Corridor by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry Japan, he called on Sri Lankan businesses, industry associations, and the wider community to come together in dialogue with the Government to ensure the country does not miss this opportunity as well.

2026/27 Committee: President: Mr. Athulla R F Edirisinghe – Director, Hirohama Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd, Senior Vice President - Mr. Ruwan Waidyaratne – Managing Director, Hayleys Advantis Ltd, Vice – President - Mr. Shamil Mendis – Managing Director, Spear International (Pvt) Ltd, Treasurer - Mr. Rohitha Mendis – Managing Director of Prudential Shipping Lines (Pte) Ltd, Immediate Past President - Mr. Mahen Kariyawasan – Managing Director, Andrew The Travel Company (Pvt) Ltd, representatives from Amano Lanka Engineering (Pvt) Ltd, BOV Capital (Pvt) Ltd, Brandix Apparel (Pvt) Ltd, Heritage Teas (Pvt) Ltd, Kalhari Enterprises (Pvt) Ltd, Lanka Harness (Pvt) Ltd, Dentsu Grant (Pvt) Ltd, MAC Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, and Vidullanka PLC. By invitation: HVA Foods PLC (subsidiary of George Steuart & Co), Spillburg Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, and Vaughan Chemicals (Pvt) Ltd.

08.09.2026

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Thyaga Introduces Greetly, a Smarter Way to Gift Through Greeting Cards

Thyaga has introduced Greetly, a new greeting card gifting solution designed to make everyday gifting more thoughtful, convenient, and useful for both the giver and the receiver.

Greetly brings together two things people already love: the personal touch of a greeting card and the freedom of a Thyaga voucher. Each Greetly card comes with a Thyaga voucher inside, allowing customers to turn a simple greeting into a meaningful gift that the recipient can actually choose and enjoy.

The product was created to solve a common gifting problem. Greeting cards are thoughtful, but often the gesture ends with the message. Traditional gifts, on the other hand, can be difficult to choose, especially when the giver is unsure of what the recipient really wants. Greetly bridges that gap by keeping the emotional value of a card while adding the flexibility of a multi-merchant gift voucher.

Using Greetly is simple. Customers can purchase a Greetly card, scan the QR code on the packaging, top up the Thyaga voucher with their preferred amount, write a personal message, and gift it to someone special. The recipient can then redeem the voucher across Thyaga’s wide merchant network, giving them the freedom to choose from multiple brands and categories.

This makes Greetly suitable for a wide range of occasions including birthdays, thank-you moments, congratulations, farewells, festive gifting, last-minute gifting, and everyday appreciation. It also gives customers a practical solution when they want to gift something more meaningful than a card, but more flexible than a fixed product.

A key part of Greetly’s value is convenience. By making the product available through retail locations and selected online channels, Thyaga is making smart gifting easier to access during everyday shopping moments. Customers no longer need to plan far ahead or visit multiple places to arrange a thoughtful gift. They can simply pick up a Greetly card, top it up, and gift it with ease.

Greetly is currently available at selected outlets and channels including SPAR Supermarket, Jeya Book Centre, The Third Place @ Trace Expert City, Simplytek Colpetty, Nisaco Mall, Uber Eats, and Thyaga Head Office, Jawatta.

07.09.2026

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ProFood ProPack & AgBiz 2026 Attracts Nearly 30,000 Visitors

By Vipula Amarasinghe

The 23rd edition of ProFood ProPack & AgBiz 2026, Sri Lanka’s leading exhibition covering the food processing, packaging and agriculture sectors, concluded successfully at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), attracting nearly 30,000 visitors.
Held from August 21 over three days, the exhibition brought together businesses, entrepreneurs, industry professionals, academics and consumers from Sri Lanka and overseas, providing opportunities to explore new products and technologies, exchange knowledge, develop partnerships and identify new business opportunities across the food and agriculture value chain.
Organised by the Sri Lanka Food Processors Association (SLFPA) in collaboration with Lanka Exhibition & Conference Services (Pvt) Ltd (LECS), this year’s exhibition occupied six halls and featured nearly 450 stalls. Around 30 international exhibitors also participated, adding an international dimension to the event.
The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetthi and Secretary to the Ministry Thilaka Jayasudara. The event was endorsed by the Ministry of Industries.
A major attraction was the Innovation Pavilion, where 14 government and private-sector universities presented research, innovations and technology solutions relevant to the food and related industries.
The Institute of Food Science and Technology Sri Lanka (IFSTSL) also conducted an industry seminar and activities involving university undergraduates, aimed at strengthening cooperation between academia and industry and encouraging young people to pursue careers in food science and technology.
The SLFPA introduced its new Career Connect initiative during the exhibition to link employers with interns, graduates and young professionals seeking opportunities in the food-processing sector.
SLFPA President Aruna Senanayake said the future of food processing depended on having people with the right skills connected to the right opportunities. The Career Connect platform was officially launched by Minister Sunil Handunnetthi.
The exhibition also placed emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises through an SME Pavilion organised by the Ministry of Industries. The pavilion provided emerging businesses with greater exposure and opportunities to connect with customers and industry stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the Knowledge Circle Industry Seminar organised by SLFPA provided participants with insights from industry professionals. The Knowledge Hub was also expanded this year to include an Industry Help Desk, offering guidance to new entrepreneurs seeking information on business and industry opportunities.
The exhibition featured a Home Cooking Challenge, allowing home cooks to prepare creative dishes using products showcased by exhibitors. The initiative added a consumer-oriented element to the event while demonstrating the versatility of participating products and brands.
Following strong visitor attendance and positive feedback from exhibitors, the organisers have announced plans to expand the venue for next year’s exhibition.
For more than 23 years, ProFood ProPack & AgBiz has served as a major platform for Sri Lanka’s food, beverage, processing, packaging and agriculture industries, supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, business development and industry collaboration.
The organisers credited the success of the 2026 exhibition to the participation and support of exhibitors, sponsors, government institutions, universities, professional bodies, industry partners, media organisations and visitors.
The event was supported by leading companies including Cargills Ceylon PLC, Multivac Laraon India (Pvt) Ltd, Maliban Biscuit Manufactories (Pvt) Ltd, Nikini Automation Systems and Pakona Engineers India (Pvt) Ltd as Platinum Sponsors, while Aussee Oats Milling (Pvt) Ltd, Freelan Enterprises (Pvt) Ltd and Nestlé Lanka Ltd supported the event as Gold Sponsors.

07.09.2026

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Hayleys Agriculture Launches Grain & Food Processing Machinery Business at ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026

Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited launched its new Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery business at ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026, held from 21st  to 23rd  August 2026 at the BMICH, Colombo, marking a significant expansion of its portfolio into specialised machinery and technology solutions for Sri Lanka’s grain and food processing industries.

Hayleys Agriculture used the ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026 platform to introduce the new business to industry stakeholders, alongside a range of advanced solutions designed to support greater efficiency, quality, hygiene and food safety across grain and food processing operations.
The Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery portfolio includes grain drying and storage systems, high-quality rice milling machinery, specialised food processing equipment, food metal detection systems, hygiene solutions, online process control systems and other processing technologies designed to meet the evolving requirements of the Food and Beverage Industry.

The launch represents a further step in Hayleys Agriculture’s evolution from its strong foundations in agricultural inputs towards becoming a broader, solutions-led organisation across the agricultural and food value chains, with an increasing focus on mechanisation, technology and value addition.
Another key highlight of the exhibition was the unveiling of the revamped Govi Aruna range from Sunfrost (Pvt) Ltd, alongside Island Magic Peanut Spread. Featuring a refreshed visual identity and brand proposition, the Govi Aruna range continues to build relevance around convenient, quality products suited to everyday Sri Lankan cooking.

Visitors were able to experience the versatility of the portfolio through live tasting sessions and interactive chef demonstrations, featuring familiar Sri Lankan favourites alongside contemporary food creations. The activation provided consumers with a first-hand understanding of the products, ingredients and their different applications.

Hayleys Agriculture also highlighted its growing focus on agricultural mechanisation and precision technology through an immersive agricultural drone experience. Visitors were introduced to the role of drone technology in modern farming through an interactive AR-based gaming experience, while the Agri Equipment segment showcased agricultural drones and other mechanisation solutions aimed at improving efficiency, productivity and precision across farming operations.

The exhibition further demonstrated the breadth of Hayleys Agriculture’s presence across Agri Equipment, Grain & Food Processing Machinery, Animal Health, Environmental Management Services, Crop Protection and Planting Materials, Fertilisers and Value-Added Agricultural Produce, reflecting the company’s expanding role across the wider agricultural ecosystem.

Commenting on the company’s participation, Jayanthi Dharmasena, Managing Director of Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited, said:

“Hayleys Agriculture has built its foundation by supporting farmers and the wider agricultural sector with quality inputs, expertise and solutions. Today, we are broadening that role through greater investment in mechanisation, technology and value-added solutions that respond to the evolving needs of the industry.
The launch of Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery marks an important step in this journey, enabling us to bring high-quality machinery and technology solutions to Sri Lanka’s grain and food processing industries. At the same time, the revamped Govi Aruna range reflects our continued focus on building relevant, value-added food propositions for today’s consumer.

Our participation at ProFood, ProPack & AgBiz 2026 reflects our commitment to connecting innovation with practical industry needs and creating greater value across the agricultural and food value chains.”
With the introduction of Hayleys Grain & Food Processing Machinery, together with continued investments in agricultural mechanisation, technology and value-added food solutions, Hayleys Agriculture is further strengthening its position as an integrated solutions provider across Sri Lanka’s agricultural and food value chains, supporting greater productivity, efficiency and long-term industry growth.

07.09.2026

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Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit 2026 to Examine How Sri Lanka Can Build a More Resilient Economy for the Future

 

As Sri Lanka moves beyond economic stabilisation, attention is increasingly turning to how the country can maintain its growth momentum while preparing for the challenges ahead. This will be among the key questions at the Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 (SLEIS 2026), organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 12-13 October, where policymakers, business leaders and international experts will examine how Sri Lanka can build greater resilience while continuing to pursue growth and investment.
Recent economic and global disruptions have highlighted the importance of strengthening the foundations of the economy, from macroeconomic stability and institutions to business resilience and the ability to respond to changing conditions. Titled “Beyond Crisis Management: Building a Shock-Resilient Sri Lankan Economy,” the session will examine the vulnerabilities exposed by recent economic and external shocks and consider what needs to be put in place to ensure that future disruptions do not repeatedly set back economic progress.
Ms. Lilia Aleksanyan, Senior Country Economist for Sri Lanka – Asian Development Bank, will deliver the keynote address at the session, and will be joined at a panel discussion by Dr. Chandranath Amarasekara, Senior Deputy Governor – Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Ms. Sabrina Esufally, Executive Director – Hemas Holdings PLC, and  Dr. Roshan Perera, Consultant – Centre for Poverty Analysis and Former Director – Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The discussion will be moderated by  Mr. Dhananath Fernando, Chief Executive Officer -Advocata Institute.
The session will consider how Sri Lanka can strengthen macroeconomic stability, safeguard livelihoods and improve the resilience of businesses and key economic institutions. It will also examine the role of international partnerships, investment, innovation and business leadership in building an economy that can adapt to changing conditions without losing sight of longer-term development goals.
Rather than focusing only on how the country responds when the next crisis arrives, the discussion will consider what needs to be put in place beforehand, including stronger institutions, sound economic policies, greater diversification, resilient businesses and the capacity to respond quickly when external or domestic pressures emerge.
The session will form part of the second day of SLEIS 2026, held under the theme “Positioning Sri Lanka in a Changing Global Economy: Resilience, Reform, and the Future of Economic Policy.”
The Sri Lanka Economic & Investment Summit 2026 is supported by its valued sponsors and partners. Platinum Sponsor – Standard Chartered Bank Sri Lanka, Gold Sponsor – VISA Worldwide (Pvt) Ltd., Bronze Sponsor – South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd., Strategic Development Partner – Asian Development Bank, Telecommunication Partner – Dialog Telecommunication, Television Partner – Dialog Television, Session Sponsors – David Pieris Motor Company (Pvt) Ltd., Hemas Holdings PLC, Sunshine Holdings PLC, International Construction Consortium (Pvt) Ltd., Official Logistics Partner – Hayleys Advantis Limited, Official Airline – SriLankan Airlines Ltd., Official Hospitality Partner – Shangri-La Colombo, Airline Partner – China Eastern Air Holding Co. Ltd.

Registrations are now open at https://sleis.chamber.lk/. For more information, contact Alikie on 011 558 8805 (alikie@chamber.lk) or Shanuka on 0701082541 (events.division@chamber.lk).

07.09.2026

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Home Lands Completes 60% Piling Work of ‘Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo’ in Record Time

Market Leader Home Lands has announced that Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo has reached a significant construction milestone, with 60% of its piling work now officially completed, just under three months after the project's launch, placing its rate of progress 10% ahead of plan. With construction progressing ahead of target, the development's piling programme is advancing strongly, reinforcing Home Lands' commitment to timely delivery and its ability to execute large-scale developments through sound planning, financial strength, and a fully integrated business model.

A total of 192 piles are being constructed as part of the development, with 9 piling machines mobilised and three major contractors: Access Engineering PLC, Sanken Construction’s San Piling (Pvt) Ltd., and D P Jayasinghe Piling Company (Pvt) Ltd., currently engaged in the works. Supported by the contractors' extensive fleets and expertise in piling, the scale of operations reflects the pace and efficiency with which construction is progressing at the site.

Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo represents a landmark investment in Sri Lanka's real estate sector, at Port City Colombo. The project investment of USD 150 million by Home Lands, with the total project value estimated at over USD 300 million, is the largest real estate investment by a single Sri Lankan developer, expected to attract large foreign currency inflows into Sri Lanka by way of global marketing efforts targeting a global clientele. Located in the prestigious Central Park District, the ultra-luxury twin-tower development introduces the branded global lifestyle concept to Sri Lanka and offers residents a premium living environment overlooking nearly 40 acres of Central Park and the Indian Ocean.

For investors, Home Lands' track record provides further confidence in its ability to deliver. As Sri Lanka's number one, most trusted, and most innovative real estate brand, Home Lands has been recognised as Best Developer – Sri Lanka at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards in 2021, 2024, and 2025, and became Sri Lanka's only real estate Superbrand in 2025. With more than 5,000 residences sold, over 3,750 homes delivered with 400 more units ready to deliver within this year, and over 2,850 units currently under construction, Home Lands brings more than two decades of experience, scale, financial strength, and proven delivery capability to Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo.
“Construction progress of Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo is well underway, with 60% of the piling work completed already” said Mr. Nalin Herath, Chairman of Home Lands Group of Companies. “Our vision to bring a truly world class lifestyle development to Port City Colombo takes shape with the steady construction progress of Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo”

Home Lands has also reinforced its long-term confidence in Port City Colombo through the acquisition of its second land parcel within the Central Park District, shortly after securing its first. The second land parcel acquired, spanning over 3 acres in extent, is similar in size and located adjacent to the land on which Central Park Boulevard Port City Colombo is being constructed. The acquisition further demonstrates the company's financial strength and continued commitment to investing in Sri Lanka’s future driven by the potential of Port City Colombo.

With piling for Central Park Boulevard now 60% complete and construction progressing ahead of target, Home Lands once again reinforces its commitment to delivering landmark developments on schedule while creating lasting value for homeowners and investors, further strengthening its position as the developer of choice for those seeking the best in lifestyle choices and high returns.

07.09.2026

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DIMO Expands Bosch Diesel Service Network with New Kurunegala Facility

DIMO has expanded its specialized after-sales network with the opening of a new DIMO Diesel Lab branch in Kurunegala, bringing fuel injection pump repair and diagnostic services of the Bosch diesel service network closer to customers in the North Western Province and surrounding regions.

Using Bosch diagnostic equipment, genuine spare parts, and internationally recognized repair standards, the new facility operates as part of Bosch Diesel Service Workshop network, providing diesel injection pump repairs and diesel injector repairs. The workshop brings together trained technicians who deliver accurate diagnostics and reliable repair solutions for diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.

Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Mahesh Karunaratne, Chief Operating Officer - Automotive Engineering Solutions of DIMO, said, "A vital aspect of the value we provide to our customers is after-sales service. The DIMO Diesel Lab's opening in Kurunegala broadens our nationwide service network and provides customers in this significant economic region with quicker access to specialized diesel fuel injection knowledge supported by Bosch’s global standards. By making world-class diesel fuel pump repair solutions more accessible, we are helping customers keep their operations moving efficiently while fuelling the dreams and aspirations of communities and businesses that depend on reliable transport, agriculture, and industrial machinery."

Mr. Sandeep Kamat, Managing Director of Bosch Sri Lanka and Country Manager for Nepal, Bhutan, and Maldives, added, "Bosch’s global diesel servicing standards are becoming more widely available throughout Sri Lanka because of our partnership with DIMO. In order to provide high-quality repairs that enhance the performance, reliability, and longevity of diesel fuel injection systems, the new Kurunegala workshop combines cutting-edge diagnostic technology, genuine Bosch parts, and experienced technical expertise.”

The new facility was officially inaugurated in the presence of Mr. Gahanath Pandithage, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DIMO, together with representatives from Bosch and members of DIMO's management and staff. The Kurunegala branch is ideally situated to service a high concentration of commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and industrial fleets, given its location within one of Sri Lanka's major commercial and transportation hubs. The new facility reduces travel time, minimizes equipment downtime, and increases operational efficiency by offering specialized diesel repair services closer to customers in the region.

The Kurunegala branch's opening is another step in DIMO's continuous efforts to expand its nationwide after-sales network, helping customers maintain the optimal performance of their diesel-powered vehicles and equipment while increasing accessibility to fuel injection pump repair services under the Bosch Diesel Service network. Backed by 85+ years of Authority in Automotive Excellence, this expansion reflects DIMO's ongoing commitment to delivering world-class after-sales solutions closer to customers across Sri Lanka and fuelling dreams and aspirations of the communities it serves.

07.09.2026

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Groundworth Unveils Exclusive Residential Land Project Near Kottawa Expressway

Groundworth (Pvt) Ltd has entered the premium residential land market around Kottawa with the launch of “The Highway by Groundworth”, an exclusive 12-plot development located just one kilometre from the Kottawa Expressway Interchange.
The new project has been positioned as a residential opportunity for buyers seeking easy access to Colombo and other major destinations while remaining close to schools, healthcare, public transport and everyday amenities.
Located within a rapidly developing residential corridor, The Highway provides convenient connectivity to the Southern Expressway (E01) and Outer Circular Expressway (E02), linking residents with destinations including Colombo, Galle, Matara, Kadawatha and Katunayake.
The project's location also provides access to High Level Road (A4), offering an alternative connection between Pannipitiya and Colombo.
Kasun Andrahennadi, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Groundworth Group, said connectivity was central to the concept behind the development.
“We wanted to create an opportunity where the location does much of the work in defining the value of the property. The Highway is built around one of the strongest practical advantages a property can offer: connectivity,” he said.
According to Andrahennadi, the proximity to the Kottawa Expressway Interchange allows residents to reach key destinations efficiently while retaining access to essential facilities near their homes.
The development is approximately two kilometres from the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Hub and around 2.5 kilometres from Kottawa Town and Junction. Supermarkets, banks, pharmacies, restaurants and other services are also located within the surrounding area, with Softlogic GLOMARK approximately 1.5 kilometres away.
The residential project is also situated close to several schools, including Kottawa Dharmapala Maha Vidyalaya, Ananda College Kottawa, Leeds International and Louver College, which are within approximately two to three kilometres. Homagama Base Hospital is located around 2.5 kilometres from the development.
With only 12 plots available, The Highway has been designed as a limited residential development rather than a large-scale land scheme. Plot sizes begin at six perches, with the project offering clear deeds, 22-foot road frontage, pipe-borne water and electricity connections.
Groundworth said the development is aimed particularly at buyers planning to construct high-end homes in a location where transport connectivity and access to urban facilities are key advantages.
Land prices at The Highway start from LKR 2.1 million per perch.
The launch comes at a time when accessibility to expressways and major transport hubs continues to be an important consideration for residential property buyers, particularly in suburban areas surrounding Colombo.
Groundworth has now opened The Highway for site visits, with prospective buyers able to inspect the location and available plots. The company said only a limited number of plots remain available.

06.09.2026

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