Phoenix Ogilvy Tops 2025 Creative Rankings in Sri Lanka 📈
• Overall Achievement: Phoenix Ogilvy has been named the _2025 Sri Lanka Agency of the Year_ by Campaign Brief Asia, marking the country’s return to the regional creative rankings after a one-year absence. • Performance Metrics: The agency secured the top national spot with 295 Creative Ranking points. These points were amassed through significant wins at six major international award shows, including LIA, One Asia, Clio, AdFest, Spikes Asia, and The Work. • Individual Talent: The agency dominated the national Individual Creative Rankings. The top three spots were swept by Phoenix Ogilvy talent: Nadeera Warawita (No. 1 - 250 points) Sakuna Ranasinghe (No. 2 - 220 points) Samitha Kaushalya (No. 3 - 150 points) • Economic & Sector Impact: As a major hub in the ICT/BPM and creative services sector, the agency employs 290 industry specialists. This performance underscores the strength of Sri Lanka's intellectual capital and its ability to export high-value creative services globally. • Strategic Context: Chairman Irvin Weerackody attributed the success to a blend of global rigour and deep local intelligence, reinforcing the agency's 50-year standing as a pillar of the local marketing landscape. _Source: Campaign Brief Asia / Ogilvy Group Sri Lanka (Provisional Data)_ ---
🏆 CEO of the Year 2025 Awards Tonight in Colombo 📈
The prestigious CEO of the Year 2025 Awards Ceremony will take place this evening, February 26, at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo. Organized by the Global CEO Forum, the event serves as a premier national platform to honor corporate leaders driving Sri Lanka’s economic stability. • Event Focus: Recognizing leadership excellence, strategic innovation, and resilience across various sectors. • Evaluation Criteria: Winners are selected through a rigorous process assessing organisational performance, governance standards, and industry impact. • Key Participants: Attendees include senior government Ministers, diplomats, and high-level corporate executives. • Economic Context: The ceremony emphasizes the role of the private sector in fostering global competitiveness and sustainable development for Sri Lanka. Strategic Highlights: • Focuses on ethical governance and innovation as core drivers of national progress. • Encourages public-private sector engagement to strengthen the country's economic resilience. _Note: Award winners will be announced during the gala ceremony._
## Metropolitan Technologies Wins Special Category at 'The Great HR Quiz 2026' 📈
The Human Resources team of Metropolitan Technologies secured the Special Category Award at the 2026 edition of ‘The Great HR Quiz’, organized by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) Sri Lanka. • Event Overview: The annual competition, held on 28 January 2026, featured over 70 leading organizations from across the island. It serves as a premier knowledge-sharing platform for HR professionals to promote excellence in people management and strategic alignment. • Sector Impact: As a key player in Sri Lanka’s ICT and technology solutions sector—holding a significant market share in hardware—Metropolitan’s win underscores the importance of a "future-ready" workforce in driving business performance. • Key Competition Results: • Overall Champion: International Distillers Ltd (IDL) • 1st Runner-Up: InQube Global (Pvt) Ltd • 2nd Runner-Up: DFCC Bank PLC • Sector Winner (Finance/Insurance): Janashakthi Group (JXG) • Strategic Significance: The 2026 quiz featured a revitalized format focusing on real-life HR scenarios and decision-making. The achievement reflects Metropolitan's commitment to high standards in human resource management, essential for sustaining its leadership in the local technology landscape. _Note: Results are based on the latest industry data from the CIPM 2026 event cycle._
SLIM Effie Awards 2025 Grand Finale Set for March 3 📈
The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) will host the Grand Finale of the SLIM Effie Awards 2025, celebrating the country’s most impactful marketing and advertising campaigns. • Event Details: Scheduled for March 3, 2026, at Monarch Imperial, Thalawathugoda, starting at 5:30 p.m. • Core Focus: Recognition of campaigns that demonstrate strategic insight, creative excellence, and measurable business results within the marketing and advertising sector. • Industry Significance: The SLIM Effie Awards serve as a global benchmark for marketing effectiveness, aimed at elevating industry standards and positioning Sri Lankan marketers on a global platform. • Participation: The event will convene key stakeholders, including leading brands, advertising agencies, and media partners, highlighting the resilience and innovation of the local marketing community. Based on official event announcement data. 🇱🇰
Finalists Announced for CFA Institute Research Challenge Sri Lanka 2025/26 📈
The CFA Society Sri Lanka has revealed the top four university teams qualifying for the local finals of the prestigious global equity research competition. • Finalist Teams: - University of Kelaniya - SAB Campus CA Sri Lanka - University of Sri Jayewardenepura - University of Colombo • Key Details: - Subject Company: Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka Ltd. (PickMe) - Local Finals: Scheduled for 27 February 2026 at the HNB Auditorium, Colombo. - Objective: Teams will present equity research, financial modeling, and investment recommendations to a panel of investment community experts. • Strategic Impact: - Supported by the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) as Platinum Partner and HNB PLC as Banking Partner. - Focuses on strengthening capital market knowledge, analytical thinking, and ethical standards among the next generation of finance professionals. - The local winner will advance to the sub-regional competition, aiming for the Global Final in Hong Kong. • Sector Significance: - Vital for developing skilled human capital in financial services and equity research, essential for the long-term resilience of Sri Lanka’s financial ecosystem.
Sri Lankan Scientist Wins Global 2026 OWSD-Elsevier Energy Award 📈
• Duleeka Sandamali Gunarathne from Sri Lanka has been named one of five winners of the 2026 OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Award for Early-Career Women Scientists in the Developing World. • The award recognizes her visionary leadership and research in Engineering Sciences, specifically focusing on advancing UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy. • Key Highlights: • Recognized for "transforming communities" through innovations in the sustainable energy sector. • One of only five global recipients selected from the Global South (alongside winners from Guatemala, Syria, Kenya, and Togo). • The award includes a cash prize of US$ 5,000 and a travel grant for an international conference to support professional growth. • Economic Impact: • Since 2013, this program has recognized 84 scientists across 38 countries, positioning winners as key role models for ICT/BPM and Engineering leadership. • Gunarathne’s achievement highlights Sri Lanka’s growing intellectual capital in renewable energy and sustainable technology, vital for long-term national energy security and professional services exports. • Awarded by the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) and the Elsevier Foundation ahead of International Women’s Day.
### Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award in India 📈
• Event: Gangaramaya Temple Chief Incumbent Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji has been conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award by KITT University, India. This marks the first time a Sri Lankan has received this prestigious honor. • Significance: The award recognizes exceptional contributions to Buddhist scholarship, spiritual leadership, and the strengthening of Sri Lanka–India cultural relations. Previous recipients include eminent figures such as former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee. • Bilateral Impact: • Highlights the role of religious diplomacy in enhancing regional harmony and mutual cooperation. • Commemorates milestones such as the 2017 State Vesak Ceremony attended by PM Narendra Modi and the historic exposition of Indian Buddhist Relics at Gangaramaya. • Reinforces academic ties, as Ven. Dr. Assaji is an alumnus of the University of Delhi (MA and PhD). • Context: This recognition underscores the strategic importance of cultural and religious ties in the broader Sri Lanka–India partnership, fostering long-term bilateral stability and mutual respect. ---
SLASSCOM Launches 2026 National Ingenuity Awards to Drive $5B Innovation Goal 📈
The Sri Lanka Association for Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM) has officially opened applications for the 8th edition of the SLASSCOM National Ingenuity Awards (SNIA) 2026. The initiative aligns with the national target of building a US$ 5.00 Bn knowledge and innovation economy by 2030. • Core Objective: To transition Sri Lanka from service delivery toward high-value, product-driven growth and global intellectual property (IP) ownership. • Key Sectors: Awards cover Fintech, Agritech, Healthtech, Edutech, Manufacturing, Logistics, and Retail. • Eligibility: Open to Sri Lankan corporates, ICT/BPM startups (est. after Jan 2022), university undergraduates, and school students (Grade 9+). • Special Categories: Includes Woman Technopreneur of the Year, Tech-for-Good, and Innovation in RPA (Robotic Process Automation). • Timeline: Applications are open until 15 March 2026 via the official portal. The awards aim to improve Sri Lanka's Innovation Index by recognizing scalable, homegrown solutions with significant economic and societal impact. 🇱🇰
Sri Lanka’s Mirissa and Bentota Ranked Among Asia’s Top 10 Beaches 📈
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector receives a significant global boost as two coastal destinations are recognized in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards "Best of the Best" list. • Key Rankings: Mirissa Beach secured the 5th position in Asia, while Bentota Beach followed at 7th. Both destinations are among the top 1% of over eight million global listings based on traveler reviews over a 12-month period. • Sector Highlights: • Mirissa Beach: Recognized for its appeal to both relaxation and adventure tourism, featuring calm swimming areas, the "Mirissa Right" surfing break, and the iconic Coconut Tree Hill. • Bentota Beach: Noted for its strength in the water sports niche, specifically jet skiing and kitesurfing, complemented by its soft white sands and sunset views. • Regional Context: Sri Lanka is the only country alongside India and Thailand to have multiple entries in Asia’s Top 10. The top spot was claimed by Banana Beach in Phuket, Thailand. • Economic Impact: These accolades reinforce Sri Lanka's position as a premier leisure destination, critical for driving foreign exchange earnings and supporting local employment in the hospitality and food & beverage industries. _Data based on 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards._
### Radisson Hotels Sri Lanka Sweeps MMT Awards 📈
Radisson Blu Resort Galle, Radisson Hotel Kandy, and Radisson Hotel Colombo have been honored with prestigious awards from MakeMyTrip (MMT). The recognition highlights excellence in service quality, traveler trust, and guest satisfaction across the group's Sri Lankan portfolio. Performance Highlights The awards follow a period of exceptional commercial growth for the properties, all operating under Sino Lanka Hotels Holdings Ltd: • Radisson Blu Resort Galle: Achieved a massive 300% production growth. • Radisson Hotel Kandy: Delivered 200% production growth. • Radisson Hotel Colombo: Recorded 175% production growth. Sector Impact The growth underscores the rising demand for hospitality and tourism in Sri Lanka, particularly through international online travel platforms. By maintaining global standards, these hotels contribute significantly to the country's brand credibility and regional competitiveness. Strategic Focus The group continues to prioritize: • Sustainable growth and international service benchmarks. • Diversified experiences across oceanfront, hill-country, and urban settings. • Strengthening Sri Lanka’s profile as a preferred destination for global travelers.
📈 People’s Bank Crowns ‘BizTeen’ 2025 Winners & Launches Youth Banking
People's Bank, in partnership with the Industrial Development Board (IDB), concluded the ‘BizTeen’ Entrepreneurship Challenge 2025, aimed at fostering entrepreneurial thinking and SME development among school students nationwide. • Competition Highlights: • Organized under the National School Industry Entrepreneurship Circles Programme involving the Ministries of Industry and Education. • Evaluated via business proposals and national-level presentations. • 13 national winners selected for innovation and business potential. • Top Award Recipients: • 1st Place: W.K. Vinuka Yasith (Urubokka National School) – LKR 250,000. • 2nd Place: Dasini Sanupama Karunathilaka (Anuradhapura Central College) – LKR 150,000. • 3rd Place: K.D. Nethmi Prarthana Dissanayaka (Thalawa Maha Vidyalaya) – LKR 100,000. • Merit: 10 students received LKR 25,000 each to support their concepts. • New Financial Product: • Launch of 'People’s YES TEEN', a dedicated banking solution for ages 13–18. • Features a branded debit card with a LKR 20,000 daily transaction limit. • Focuses on financial literacy and discipline by balancing parental oversight with digital banking independence. • Strategic Impact: This initiative strengthens the human capital pipeline for Sri Lanka’s future startup ecosystem and encourages financial inclusion from an early age.
IDL Crowned Champions at CIPM Great HR Quiz 2026 📈
International Distillers Ltd. (IDL) emerged as the overall winner of the 2026 Great HR Quiz organized by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) Sri Lanka. In its debut appearance, IDL outperformed 74 other teams from various industries, securing both the Overall Championship and the sector award for Food, Beverage, and Distilleries. The 2026 competition featured a revamped format focusing on strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving across the employee life cycle rather than simple knowledge-based queries. The winning IDL team included Hansanie Illangakoon, Chaminda de Seram, Prasad Gunathilaka, and Ashan Maraweerahewa. IDL, established in 1980, is currently Sri Lanka’s largest locally manufactured foreign liquor producer, with a growing export footprint in Europe, Australia, Japan, and North America. This victory highlights the sector's shift toward world-class people management and strategic HR as key drivers of competitive advantage in the local manufacturing landscape.
📈 CISD Achieves Global UK "Investor in Sales" Accreditation
The Colombo Institute of Sales and Distribution (CISD) has secured the Investor in Sales – Bronze Accreditation from the UK-based Institute of Sales Professionals (ISP). This milestone marks CISD as one of the few regional institutions to meet rigorous international benchmarks for structured, high-performance sales systems and leadership. • Accreditation Details Status: Bronze Accreditation (International Benchmark). Validity: 9 January 2026 to 8 January 2028. Scope: Evaluates leadership, people development, and professional sales processes. • Impact on Sri Lanka’s Economy Professionalization: Transitions sales from an informal occupation into a respected career pathway, similar to finance or IT. Sector Support: Enhances talent quality across FMCG, Banking, Tech, and Logistics—sectors critical for national growth. Regional Hub: Positions Sri Lanka as a center for professional sales excellence and commercial leadership. • Key Institutional Role Focus: Sri Lanka's first higher education entity dedicated exclusively to sales and distribution. Mission: Bridging the gap between academic theory and industry practice through globally benchmarked programs. _Summary based on official announcement (Feb 18, 2026)._
Union Assurance Dominates 6th Emerging Asia Insurance Conclave 2025 🏆
Union Assurance PLC (UAL), a subsidiary of the John Keells Holdings (JKH) conglomerate, secured three major honors at the 6th Emerging Asia Insurance Conclave and Awards 2025 held in Bangkok. • Key Global Accolades: • Joint Winner: Best Life Insurance Company of the Year (Second consecutive year). • Joint Winner: Best Strategies for Insurance Coverage of the Year. • Joint Winner: Contribution to Women in Insurance Leadership. • Financial Standing (As of Sept 2025): • Life Fund: Rs. 91.1 Bn. • Market Capitalization: Rs. 46.2 Bn. • Workforce: 3,000+ employees across an island-wide branch network. • Sector Impact & Strategy: The awards recognize UAL’s focus on digital transformation and inclusive growth within the Life Insurance sector. Key initiatives highlighted include the 100-day equal parental leave policy, part of a broader Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) strategy aimed at setting private-sector benchmarks for gender empowerment. • Market Context: As the longest-standing private life insurer in Sri Lanka, UAL continues to leverage advanced technology and its position within the Colombo Stock Exchange's largest conglomerate to provide health, investment, and protection solutions. _Note: Financial figures based on provisional data as of September 2025._ 📈
### 📈 SriLankan Cargo Sets South Asian Milestone with IATA Certification
SriLankan Cargo, the air freight arm of SriLankan Airlines, has become the first airline in South Asia to receive the IATA Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) for Live Animals Logistics Certification. Key Strategic Highlights: • Global Standing: SriLankan is now one of only 12 airlines worldwide to hold this premium certification, which validates compliance with the highest humane and safety standards. • Economic Impact: Cargo operations currently contribute approximately 11% of the national carrier’s total revenue, with this certification expected to drive further growth in specialized logistics. • Sector Growth: The move targets a rising global market that saw over 200,000 live animal shipments in 2025. • Operational Proof: The airline recently successfully executed its first certified shipment, transporting seven bovines from Lahore to Colombo for the Department of Animal Production and Health. Infrastructure & Logistics: • Specialized Care: Operations feature the ‘Guardian Class’ service, utilizing purpose-built facilities with precise temperature control and CEIV-trained teams. • Network Reach: Provides connectivity to 33 destinations across 21 countries, leveraging a hub strategy to position Colombo as a central logistics gateway for South Asia. • Expansion: This achievement aligns with broader plans to double cargo capacity via a new terminal at BIA, aiming for 500,000 tonnes annually by the end of 2026.
Ceylinco Life Named Sri Lanka’s ‘Best Life Insurer’ for 12th Consecutive Year 📈
Ceylinco Life has secured the "Best Life Insurer in Sri Lanka" title for 2025 by _World Finance_, marking an unprecedented 12th straight year of global recognition. This accolade places the company alongside international giants like Sun Life (Canada) and Nippon Life (Japan). • Overall Figures & Market Standing • Retained market leadership in Sri Lanka’s life insurance sector for 21 consecutive years. • Reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 22.45 Bn in 1H 2025, up 12.5% YoY. • Total assets reached Rs. 266.38 Bn as of June 2025, reflecting a 5.9% increase over six months. • The Life Fund grew 7.6% in 1H 2025 to reach Rs. 194.7 Bn. • Sector Highlights • Financial Stability: Maintained a Risk-based Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 448% (at end-2024), significantly above the 120% regulatory minimum. • Claims Performance: Paid Rs. 15.14 Bn in net claims and benefits during 1H 2025 (+8.3% YoY), supporting national social security. • Brand Value: Ranked as the most valuable insurance brand in Sri Lanka (2025) by Brand Finance, with a brand value of Rs. 6.45 Bn. • Industry Impact • The award recognizes excellence in underwriting efficiency, customer retention, and digital innovation—critical for the ICT/BPM integration in modern insurance. • Continuous investment in the education sector via the 'Pranama Scholarships', with over Rs. 240 Mn invested to date.
📈 HNB Secures Global ISO 22301 Certification for Operational Resilience
HNB PLC has officially attained the ISO 22301:2019 certification for its Business Continuity Management System (BCMS), marking a significant milestone in the bank's operational reliability and risk management. • Scope of Certification: The standard was awarded following an independent audit by Bureau Veritas, covering enterprise-wide operations including Information Technology (IT), risk management, and customer-facing services across its national network. • Key Strengths: The certification validates HNB’s ability to maintain critical banking services during disruptive incidents such as system outages, natural disasters, or cyber threats. It confirms the bank's "Plan-Do-Check-Act" model for continuous improvement. • Strategic Impact: Supported by Ernst & Young for gap analysis, the initiative strengthens the bank’s Financial Services framework. This move aligns HNB with over 53,000 global organizations, reinforcing trust among depositors and regulators in Sri Lanka’s evolving digital economy. • Operational Readiness: The bank emphasized that this reflects years of disciplined planning and disaster recovery validation, ensuring uninterrupted banking and secure transactions even under challenging circumstances.
Moose Clothing Named Superbrand 2026 📈
Sri Lankan youth brand Moose Clothing Company has officially been recognised as a Superbrand for 2026, marking a significant milestone in its rapid growth within the local apparel & textiles sector. The recognition was awarded at a ceremony held on 12 January 2026 at the Hilton, Colombo. • Core Achievements: The brand, founded in 2018, earned the status through independent research and consumer perception, highlighting its evolution from a young startup to a household name. It is currently recognized as a Great Place to Work and maintains a strong focus on data-driven design and international quality standards. • Strategic Partnerships: Moose’s position in the national context is solidified by its role as the Official Clothing Partner for Sri Lanka Cricket. Recently, it was also appointed as the Official Merchandise Licensing Partner for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, further bridging the gap between local manufacturing and global sports branding. • Market Expansion & Impact: • Retail Footprint: Recent expansions include new outlets at One Galle Face and Kandy City Centre. • Global Reach: The brand is diversifying into international markets including The UAE, Singapore, and India (partnering with retailers overseeing 100+ stores). • Value Proposition: Focuses on "honest pricing" for high-quality essentials, supporting local employment and elevating Sri Lankan design on the global stage. _Note: Summary based on news reports and provisional corporate data as of February 2026._
McDonald’s Named 2026 Advertiser of the Year at Spikes Asia 📈
Global brand McDonald’s has been crowned the 2026 Advertiser of the Year by Spikes Asia, marking its second win of this prestigious title (first in 2018). The award recognizes the brand's sustained commitment to creative excellence and marketing effectiveness across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. • Overall Performance: McDonald’s has secured a staggering 102 Spikes Awards throughout its history, demonstrating a successful blend of strategic insight and measurable business results. • Sector Impact: The brand is lauded for embedding creativity as a core driver for long-term brand growth and marketing effectiveness, particularly in the FMCG and Food Service sectors. • Regional Highlights: • Japan: The ‘No Smiles’ campaign won 4 awards in 2025, including the Grand Prix in Entertainment. • Philippines: The ‘Unbranded Menu’ campaign secured the first-ever Grand Prix in the Gaming category (2024), effectively penetrating the ICT/Gaming sub-culture. • Regional Context: The award celebrates the brand’s ability to maintain a global identity while deeply localizing content to resonate with diverse APAC cultures, a key benchmark for multinational brands operating in the region. The formal presentation will take place on March 12, 2026, in Singapore.
📈 Hayleys PLC Dominates CA Sri Lanka TAGS Awards 2025
The 60th anniversary of the TAGS Awards (Transparency, Accountability, Governance, and Sustainability), organized by CA Sri Lanka, concluded with Hayleys PLC emerging as the overall champion for corporate reporting excellence. • Overall Excellence Winners: • Gold: Hayleys PLC • Silver: Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC & Softlogic Life Insurance PLC • Bronze: Hatton National Bank PLC & John Keells Holdings PLC • Special Category Highlights: • Corporate Governance: Gold awarded to Commercial Bank (Financial) and Hayleys PLC (Non-Financial). • Sustainability Reporting: Hayleys PLC secured Gold, followed by Softlogic Life (Silver) and DIMO (Bronze). • Integrated Reporting: Gold won by Hayleys PLC; Silver shared by Commercial Bank and Softlogic Life. • Digital Transformation: Softlogic Life led with Gold, while Hayleys PLC and LB Finance shared Silver. • Economic Context: The awards recognized excellence across 35 sectors, emphasizing the importance of high disclosure standards in building a resilient economy. The "Top 10" included diversified conglomerates like Aitken Spence and John Keells, alongside key players in banking, insurance, and manufacturing (Haycarb). The event was attended by the CBSL Governor and Treasury Secretary, highlighting the national significance of corporate transparency for investor trust and sustainable growth.
📈 Sri Lankan Luxury Tourism Gains Global Recognition in 2026 Forbes Star Awards
Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector achieved a significant milestone as two premier properties were featured in the prestigious 68th annual Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) Star Awards. This recognition underscores the island's growing appeal within the global high-end travel market. • Key Awardees: Amangalla (Galle Fort): Honored for its "refined heritage hospitality." The 31-room UNESCO-listed property is a colonial-era landmark noted for its blend of history and contemporary luxury. Amanwella (Tangalle): Recognized for its "nature-immersed design." This 30-suite retreat focuses on privacy, coastal seclusion, and minimalist architecture. • Sector Impact: Tourism & Hospitality: Sri Lanka was featured as a new destination in the 2026 expansion, alongside countries like Bhutan and Croatia, signaling a shift toward boutique and emerging markets. The inclusion reinforces the tourism industry’s push toward highly personalized, immersive experiences, which are key drivers for international foreign exchange earnings and high-value employment. • Global Context: The 2026 FTG list covered over 100 countries, recognizing a total of 2,422 properties worldwide (including 343 Five-Star hotels). The awards reflect an evolution in global luxury, prioritizing privacy-focused and culturally integrated stays. _Source: Forbes Travel Guide 2026 (Provisional Data)_
HNB Assurance Wins Top Indian Chamber of Commerce Award 📈
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) has been recognized as the Best Health Insurance Coverage Provider of the Year – Sri Lanka at the prestigious Emerging Asia Insurance Awards 2026, organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC). This accolade marks a significant milestone in the company’s "10 in 5" strategic journey toward market leadership. • Overall Performance & Growth • Life Insurance GWP: Reported 38% YoY growth (reaching Rs. 13.74 Bn) as of Q3 2025, the highest in the local industry. • Group GWP: Increased by 32% YoY to Rs. 21.9 Bn. • Total Assets: Expanded to Rs. 63.2 Bn (+18% YoY), with the Life Fund growing 24% to Rs. 47.4 Bn. • Sector Highlights • Health Insurance: Awarded for innovation and customer-centric protection solutions amid evolving healthcare needs. • General Insurance: HNB General Insurance recorded a 23% GWP growth, more than double the industry average of 11%. • Digital Transformation: Ongoing shift toward 100% paperless operations by 2026, supported by AI-driven initiatives like "HNBGI NEXA." • Market Context • The recognition reinforces HNBA’s position in the financial services sector as a resilient player following its 25th anniversary. • Net claims and benefits paid rose by 54% to Rs. 3.25 Bn, reflecting high policyholder commitment and portfolio expansion. _Note: Summary based on provisional Q3 2025 financial data and official February 2026 award announcements._
People’s Leasing & Finance Honors Top Performance at Premier Awards 2024/25 📈
• People’s Leasing & Finance PLC (PLC) held its annual Premier Awards on January 17, 2026, to recognize outstanding performance during the 2024/25 financial year. The event celebrated achievements in marketing, asset and liability products, and recoveries. • The prestigious CEO’s Challenge Trophy for the Overall Category was awarded to the Battaramulla Branch for excelling across key financial and operational indicators. • A total of 110 awards were presented, comprising: • 72 individual awards for excellence in professional roles. • 38 branch awards recognizing collective performance across the island-wide network. • Beyond core financial services, the ceremony also recognized employees for achievements in sports and professional competitions, highlighting a commitment to a performance-driven culture and talent diversification within the non-bank financial institution (NBFI) sector. • The event was attended by top leadership from People’s Bank and its subsidiaries, reinforcing the group's position as a dominant force in Sri Lanka’s financial landscape. _Summary based on 2024/25 performance data._
📈 Hemas Consumer Brands Honored at Great HR Awards 2025
• Hemas Consumer Brands (HCB) secured the runner-up position in the FMCG and Retail sector at the Great HR Awards 2025. • The award recognizes HCB's excellence in elevating HR practices, driving innovation, and demonstrating leadership within the FMCG landscape. • The event was organized by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) in partnership with Mercer, highlighting the company’s role in shaping the future of the profession in Sri Lanka.
New Gold Medals to Drive Commercial Research at Jaffna & Vavuniya Universities 📈
The Rukmini Tissanayagam Trust has announced a new initiative to award annual Gold Medals for the Best Commercialisable Research Projects at the University of Jaffna and the University of Vavuniya. • Objective: To bridge the gap between academia and industry by fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and university-industry collaboration among undergraduates and postgraduates. • Criteria: Awards will specifically honor research leading to licensing agreements with industry partners or the creation of university spin-off ventures across all disciplines. • Economic Impact: The initiative aims to enhance knowledge transfer and enterprise creation, supporting Sri Lanka’s long-term economic development and nation-building. • Status: Formal proposals were submitted on 20 Jan 2026; the Trust is currently finalizing implementation and selection timelines with the respective Vice Chancellors. The move marks a strategic shift toward commercializing academic output, potentially boosting the ICT/BPM, technology, and specialized services sectors through indigenous research.
Hayleys Chairman’s Awards 2025: Innovation and Export Excellence 📈
Sri Lanka’s largest conglomerate, Hayleys PLC, recognized key sectoral achievements at its 13th Chairman’s Awards, highlighting advancements in energy transition and global market competitiveness. • Overall Winner: Haycarb PLC (Purification Sector) for developing specialty activated carbon for silicon-carbon composites. This innovation targets next-generation lithium-ion batteries, positioning Sri Lanka in the global energy storage supply chain. • Agriculture: Sunfrost Ltd (CocoLife) won the Quality and Lean Management Award for sustainability-driven improvements in the coconut industry, enhancing supply-chain consistency and global market access. • Textiles: Hayleys Fabric PLC received the ESG Category Award for a Smart Energy Saving System. The automated solution reduces annual emissions by 159,600 kg CO2e per machine, lowering reliance on imported fuels. • Logistics: K&A Logistics (Hayleys Advantis JV) secured the Service Excellence Award for achieving 3PL market leadership and strategic diversification in Bangladesh, strengthening regional logistics footprints. • Key Focus: The awards emphasized innovation, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and service excellence as drivers for national economic contribution and international standing.
📈 Sri Lankan Economist Honored by IMF for Global Policy Impact
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has awarded Sri Lanka-based economist Talal Rafi for the "Most Popular Public Finance Article of 2025." The recognition highlights the global reach and policy relevance of his work within the IMF’s Public Financial Management (PFM) discourse. • Award Details Rafi’s article, titled _“What Measures Can Developing Countries Take to Curb Rising Debt Levels,”_ outperformed contributions from global policymakers, practitioners, and scholars to rank as the most-read piece on the IMF PFM Blog for 2025. • Core Economic Recommendations The award-winning research addresses the critical debt crisis facing developing nations, advocating for: Debt restructuring and assessment of sustainability. Increasing progressive taxation and broadening the tax base to reduce inequality. Enhancing government efficiency through digitalization and rationalizing the public sector. Strategizing for economic growth by improving the ease of doing business and trade liberalization. • Professional Profile Talal Rafi is a prominent figure in Sri Lanka’s economic landscape, currently serving as a Consultant to the European Commission and a Director at Ernst & Young Sri Lanka. His extensive background includes: Expert member of the World Economic Forum network. Visiting Fellow at the Centre for Poverty Analysis. Former board member of the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute (foreign policy think tank). This recognition underscores the significance of Sri Lankan expertise in shaping global discourse on public finance and debt management during a period of high economic volatility for developing markets. _Data based on IMF PFM Blog annual rankings._
## Sri Lanka Sets New World Record for Largest Mercedes-Benz Gathering 📈
The Mercedes-Benz Club of Sri Lanka has officially established a new global benchmark, hosting the largest single-location gathering of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in history. • Record Details: A total of 640 cars participated, verified and certified by international auditors BDO Partners. • Global Comparison: This achievement surpasses the previous Guinness-listed record of 479 vehicles set in Quito, Ecuador, in 2021—marking a 33.6% increase. • Event Context: Held on 8 February 2026 at the BMICH, Colombo, the event coincided with the club's 35th anniversary (founded in 1990). • Economic/Sector Impact: Sponsored by DIMO (exclusive agent for the brand), the event highlights the strength of the local automotive luxury segment and the unity within Sri Lanka’s high-net-worth enthusiast communities. • Significance: Beyond the record, the gathering showcases Sri Lanka's capacity to host large-scale, internationally audited events, fostering growth in the event management and premium automotive sectors.
New Anthoney’s Farms Marks 40 Years of Antibiotic-Free Poultry Leadership 📈
• Overall Growth & Milestones: Established in 1986 with just 1,000 birds, the group celebrates four decades of operations. A key recent expansion includes the acquisition of Gold Coin Feed Mills in 2023, ensuring vertical integration from hatchery to household. • Sector Innovation: Pioneer in the poultry and livestock sector as Sri Lanka’s only producer of 100% antibiotic-free chicken. Notable product launches include the HarithaHari range (compostable packaging) and the 2025 launch of Chicken Havens, a premium eight-product range for professional kitchens. • Sustainability & Standards: • First in South Asia to adopt the “Sustainable US Soy” label. • Holds FSSC 22000, HACCP, GMP, and ISO 14064-1:2018 (Greenhouse Gas Verification). • Awarded ‘Best Exporter in the Processed Food Category’ at the 26th Presidential Export Awards. • Public Health & Impact: Leading advocacy against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), partnering with the Ministry of Health to influence national policy. The group supports food security and public health through its modern retail chain, Meatlery, and Dorakadapaliya delivery service.
📈 Zone24x7 Enters 2026 Following Record-Breaking 2025 Success
Zone24x7 enters the new year with strong momentum after securing 7 major awards in 2025, marking a pinnacle in its 22-year history. The company is reinforcing its position as a premier partner for Enterprise AI and automation solutions. • Performance Highlights The company’s growth was validated by multiple accolades for its Industrial Vending Machine solution, developed for an Australian client. Key wins include: • APICTA 2025: 2nd Runner-up (Regional level). • NBQSA 2025: Gold in Manufacturing, Engineering, and Construction, plus IoT Technology of the Year. • SLASSCOM Ingenuity Awards 2025: National Winner for Best Innovative Product in Manufacturing. • Sector & Technical Focus Zone24x7 continues to drive high-value ICT/BPM exports from its Sri Lankan technology hub, serving 50+ global enterprise customers. Key specializations include: • Artificial Intelligence: Generative AI for workflows and Cognitive Vision Analytics. • Hardware-Software Integration: Combining IoT and RFID for supply chain and warehouse management. • Digital Transformation: Moving beyond basic tools to integrated, system-agnostic architectures. • Strategic Outlook for 2026 With a focus on AI-driven automation and intelligent analytics, the company aims to enhance global workforce productivity and operational resilience. The strategy emphasizes scaling enterprise platforms that integrate seamlessly into existing environments to unlock data value without disruption.
Elephant House Celebrates 160 Years of Market Leadership 📈
Elephant House, marketed by Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS), marked its 160th anniversary in January 2026, solidifying its status as one of Sri Lanka’s most enduring consumer brands. As a key pillar of the John Keells Group Consumer Foods Sector, the company continues to drive growth through its beverages and frozen confectionery portfolios. • Operational Strength: The company operates four state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, maintaining market leadership in carbonated soft drinks and ice cream through continuous product reinvention and operational excellence. • Strategic Growth: Future strategies focus on portfolio expansion, digitalization, and advanced analytics. This follows recent milestones, including the historic December 2025 launch of locally manufactured ice cream in Australia and a franchise partnership with Reliance Retail to enter the Indian market. • Sustainability & ESG: CCS remains committed to responsible sourcing, plastic waste reduction, and community impact. The brand recently secured the "Brand of the Year" title at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2025. • Financial Context: In FY2024/25, the manufacturing segment saw a 16% YoY revenue growth, supported by a recovery in consumer spending and optimized utility costs following electricity tariff revisions. _Note: Strategic outlook based on company performance data and official anniversary statements._
CSE Strategic Partner for 60th TAGS Awards Diamond Jubilee 📈
• Overall Event Details The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) has renewed its role as the strategic partner for the 60th anniversary of the TAGS Awards, organized by CA Sri Lanka. This "Diamond Chapter" marks six decades of benchmarking excellence in Sri Lankan corporate reporting since its inception in 1964. • Core Pillars & Theme Under the theme "Diamond Chapter: The Grand Honour of Excellence," the 2025 edition focuses on four critical pillars: Transparency Accountability Governance Sustainability • Market Impact & Sector Focus The partnership aims to drive digital innovation and improve standards in the capital markets. The competition evaluates financial and non-financial reporting across various sectors, including conglomerates, SMEs, multinationals, and the NGO/NPO sector, emphasizing their role in national economic transparency. • Grand Finale Schedule The final ceremony is scheduled for 12 February 2026 at Shangri-La Colombo. The evaluation process highlights the transition toward integrated reporting and global sustainability standards, essential for investor confidence in the ICT/BPM and financial services sectors.
Geoffrey Bawa Trust Launches ‘Moonamal Award’ for Ecological Design 📈
• Overview: The Geoffrey Bawa Trust has introduced the Moonamal Award, a new national initiative recognizing design excellence rooted in ecological coexistence. This marks a strategic shift from traditional architectural awards to interdisciplinary projects focusing on environmental regeneration. • Strategic Pivot: The award addresses the gap between design and ecology, highlighted by the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah in November 2025. It aims to move away from "human-first" thinking, encouraging the construction industry—a major global environmental driver—to treat landscapes as active participants rather than resources. • Economic & Social Impact: • Integration of environmental accounting and ecosystem accounting into national economic perspectives. • Emphasis on breaking professional silos by involving architects, ecologists, and policymakers. • Focus on community engagement and long-term stability of shaped environments. • Key Timeline: • Nominations Open: August 2026. • Shortlist & Winner Announcement: Mid-2027. • Fellowship: A prestigious award fellowship will be offered alongside the recognition. • Partnerships: Key collaborators include the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), Federation of Environmental Organisations (FEO), and the Centre for a Smart Future.
EFC National Best Employer Awards 2025: Celebrating Workplace Excellence 📈
The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) marked its 96-year milestone by hosting the inaugural National Best Employer Awards, recognizing leadership and people-centered innovation amidst national economic challenges. • Overall Winners (Top 10) The elite list featured industry leaders across banking, apparel, and conglomerates: • Aitken Spence PLC • Brandix Apparel Ltd • Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC • Dialog Axiata PLC • Hatton National Bank PLC • Hayleys PLC • Hemas Holdings • John Keells Holdings PLC • Nestlé Lanka Ltd (Also won Franklyn Amarasinghe Memorial Award for Best Industrial Relations) • Toyota Lanka Ltd • Strategic Sector Impact • Apparel & Textiles: Recognized for resilience and global competitiveness. • Banking & Finance: Highlighted for ethical governance and digital transformation. • FMCG: Emphasized leadership in sustainable, people-focused culture. • Award Criteria Evaluated on five core pillars: Strategic HR Excellence, Leadership & Culture, Socio-Economic Contribution, Ethics & Compliance, and Digital Transformation. • Honorable Mentions Recognized for excellence: Ceylon Tobacco Company, Chevron Lubricants, Haleon Lanka, Lion Brewery, and South Asia Gateway Terminals. Based on official EFC 2025 results.
Nestlé Lanka Wins Dual Honors at EFC National Best Employer Awards 2025 📈
Nestlé Lanka has been recognized as one of Sri Lanka’s Top 10 Best Employers at the inaugural National Best Employer Awards 2025, hosted by the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC). The company also secured the top spot for industrial relations excellence. • Key Awards & Recognitions • Top 10 Best Employer 2025: Ranked among the nation's elite for people-centric leadership and workplace culture. • Franklyn Amerasinghe Memorial Award: Named the overall winner for Best Industrial Relations, recognizing transparent engagement and robust dispute prevention. • Sustainability Milestone: Recently invested LKR 1.1 Bn in a biomass boiler at its Kurunegala facility to reduce carbon emissions by 90%. • Operations & Economic Impact • Local Manufacturing: Over 90% of local sales are produced at the Kurunegala factory, which has operated for 40 years. • Workforce: Provides direct employment to approximately 1,200 people and supports over 23,000 distributors and farmers. • Export Contribution: The local facility remains the global hub for Maggi Coconut Milk Powder, exported to over 60 countries. • Sector Context • The recognition highlights a shift in the FMCG sector toward "Creating Shared Value" (CSV), balancing profitability with employee wellbeing and social responsibility. Nestlé’s 120-year presence in Sri Lanka underscores its role in the country’s manufacturing and agro-processing stability.
📈 Hayleys PLC Named Among Sri Lanka’s Top 10 National Best Employers
Hayleys PLC has been ranked among the Top 10 National Best Employers at the inaugural EFC National Best Employer Awards 2025. The recognition, awarded by the Employers' Federation of Ceylon (EFC) on January 20, 2026, highlights the Group’s excellence in people-centric leadership and sustainable business practices. • Overall Human Capital: The Group manages a massive workforce of over 38,000 employees (38,029 as per 2025 data) across its global operations. It remains one of the country’s largest private-sector employers, supporting thousands of indirect livelihoods through its supply chains. • Sector Excellence: As Sri Lanka’s most diversified conglomerate, Hayleys operates across 16 business sectors, including: • Apparel & textiles (Hayleys Fabric PLC) • Tea and rubber (Kelani Valley and Talawakele Tea Estates) • Agriculture and purification (world’s largest coconut-shell activated carbon manufacturer) • Transportation & logistics (Advantis) • Consumer & retail (Singer Sri Lanka) • Socio-Economic Impact: • Contributes approximately 5.4% of Sri Lanka’s total export income (US$ 875 Mn in FY2024/25). • Generates 4.6% of national tea output and 4.1% of rubber output. • Significant investment in ICT/BPM and digital transformation to enhance HR agility and operational efficiency. • Award Dimensions: Recognition was based on five key pillars: Strategic HR, Leadership & Culture, National Socio-Economic Contribution, Ethics & Compliance, and Digital Transformation. 🏆
## Commercial Bank Ranked Among Top 10 National Employers 🏆
Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Companies at the EFC National Best Employer Awards 2025, organized by the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon. • Strategic Focus: The award highlights the bank’s "people-centric" strategy, prioritizing human capital management through talent development, succession planning, and leadership cultivation. • Core Values & DEI: Recognition was driven by the bank’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), fostering an environment of meritocracy and equal opportunity across gender and backgrounds. • Digital & Sustainability: As part of its "Digital by Default" strategy, the bank is upskilling its workforce for the evolving banking and financial services landscape. Notably, it remains Sri Lanka’s first 100% carbon-neutral bank, aligning HR practices with environmental goals. • Employee Well-being: The bank was lauded for its holistic approach to employee wellness, work-life balance, and supportive workplace policies aimed at driving long-term productivity and innovation. This accolade reinforces the bank's position as a resilient leader within the financial sector, contributing to national economic growth through a highly engaged workforce.
Public Sector Excellence: 45 Entities Honored at 9th BARA Awards 📈
The Association of Public Finance Accountants of Sri Lanka (APFASL), the public sector wing of CA Sri Lanka, successfully concluded the 9th Best Annual Reports and Accounts (BARA) Awards on 5 February 2026. The event highlighted a significant shift toward transparency and international reporting standards within government institutions. • Overall Participation: A total of 260 public entities competed for honors, reflecting a strong commitment to good governance and fiscal discipline. • Key Winners: 45 entities were recognized as top winners for excellence in financial reporting, while 187 institutions received Compliance Certificates. • Sector Highlights: The competition saw exceptional participation from Provincial Councils and Local Authorities, signaling improved reporting quality across all tiers of government. • Economic Context: Officials emphasized that transparent reporting and ethical stewardship are critical to Sri Lanka’s ongoing reforms and the rebuilding of institutional trust. The awards serve as a benchmark for strengthening financial accountability and performance in the public sector, supported by over 600 finance professionals in attendance.
IPS Calls for Applications: Saman Kelegama Memorial Research Grant 2026 📈
The Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka (IPS) has announced the 2026 cycle of its prestigious research grant, targeting high-potential undergraduates to foster socio-economic research and evidence-based policy discourse. • Grant Details & Benefits: Total Award: Rs. 200,000 (one-time payment). Internship: A 3-month placement at IPS with access to senior researchers and institutional resources. Support: Assistance for presenting findings at local conferences and workshops. • Eligibility Criteria: Open to 4th-year undergraduates (or those entering 4th year in 2026). Field of Study: Economics or related subjects at UGC-approved institutions. Research Scope: Must be independent of final year projects and demonstrate high policy relevance and originality. • Selection Process: Evaluation based on feasibility, creativity, and policy impact. Shortlisted candidates (3) will present at IPS before final selection. Deliverable: A Policy Discussion Brief must be produced within six months. • Key Deadlines: Submission Deadline: 31 March 2026. Finalists Announced: 31 May 2026. Grant Recipient Named: 23 June 2026. This initiative continues to support the development of young professionals in the ICT/BPM and research sectors, contributing to Sri Lanka’s national development goals.
### Bajaj Rides High with Superbrands Status 📈
Bajaj has been conferred the prestigious Superbrands Sri Lanka Status for 2025, reinforcing its four-decade dominance in the local automotive market. This global recognition highlights the brand’s exceptional performance, quality, and consumer trust within the transport and mobility sector. Key Performance Highlights: • Market Leadership: Bajaj remains the #1 brand in both the motorcycle and three-wheeler segments in Sri Lanka, a position held consistently for over 40 years. • Infrastructure: Distributed via David Pieris Motor Company (DPMC), the brand maintains an extensive network of over 2,000 touchpoints islandwide for sales, service, and spare parts. • Brand Loyalty: Previously named Sri Lanka’s ‘Most Loved Motorcycle Brand’ by Brand Finance Lanka for five consecutive years (2019–2023). Strategic Impact: • Economic Role: The brand is central to Sri Lanka's last-mile connectivity and small-scale logistics, providing essential mobility for millions. • Future Readiness: The award underscores DPMC’s focus on evolving mobility needs and innovative product portfolios, including recent expansions into sustainable transport solutions like electric vehicles.
INSEE Sanstha Crowned Sri Lanka’s Most Awarded Cement Brand in 2025 🏗️
• Overall Performance: INSEE Sanstha dominated the 2025 industry awards, securing top honors for quality, sustainability, and innovation, reinforcing its position as the market leader in the construction sector. • Key Accolades: • SLIM Kantar People’s Awards: Won ‘People’s Housing and Construction Brand of the Year’ for an unprecedented 14th consecutive year. • Sustainability: Named ‘Sustainable Cement Brand of the Year’ by the Ceylon Institute of Builders (CIOB) and received the ‘People’s Pinnacle – Best Cement Brand of the Year 2025’. • Certifications: First in Sri Lanka to achieve ‘EcoLabel’ (NCPC) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) for its entire portfolio, alongside a 5-Star Green Label certification. • Strategic Impact: As the country’s only manufacturer with an integrated cement plant, INSEE’s focus on Portland Composite Cement (PCC) and blended technology supports Sri Lanka’s transition toward greener construction practices and low-carbon infrastructure. • Industry Context: With a 55-year heritage, the brand’s dominance reflects strong consumer trust among builders and engineers, critical for national infrastructure development and the domestic manufacturing economy.
📈 Union Assurance Wins Silver for Life Insurance at SAFA BPA Awards 2024
Sri Lanka’s longest-standing private life insurer, Union Assurance PLC, has secured the Silver Award in the Life Insurance category at the SAFA Best Presented Annual Report Awards 2024. The recognition, awarded for its 2024 Annual Report “Folds of Value,” highlights excellence in financial reporting, transparency, and corporate governance in South Asia. • Regional Milestone: This Silver Award is the highest recognition earned by a Sri Lankan company in the Life Insurance segment at this year's ceremony held in Islamabad. • Financial Strength: As of end-September 2025, the company maintains a robust Market Capitalisation of Rs. 46.2 Bn and a Life Fund of Rs. 91.1 Bn. • Corporate Context: A subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC, the company operates an island-wide network with over 3,000 employees focusing on health, investment, and retirement solutions. • Industry Leadership: The award underscores the company's commitment to international financial communication standards and its role in the evolution of the local insurance sector.
## Heritance Hotels & Resorts Awarded 'Superbrands Sri Lanka 2025' Status 🏨
• Hospitality Sector Leader: Heritance Hotels and Resorts, the flagship brand of Aitken Spence Hotels, has been officially recognized as a 'Superbrands Sri Lanka’s Choice 2025'. • Selection Process: The status is awarded by invitation only following an independent evaluation by the Superbrands Council, which assesses brand excellence, market differentiation, and consumer trust. • Brand Strength: The recognition highlights Heritance's commitment to experience-led hospitality and its role as the custodian of the largest portfolio of hotels designed by legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa. • Regional Footprint: The brand operates across diverse geographical regions in Sri Lanka and includes the flagship Maldives property, Heritance Aarah, reinforcing its tourism and export services footprint. • Strategic Impact: This accolade underscores the brand's ability to command a premium in the market through a focus on sustainability, tropical modernism, and wellness, positioning it as a regional benchmark for responsible exclusivity. • Leadership Note: Leadership at Aitken Spence PLC emphasized that the award validates their long-term commitment to design integrity and authentic hospitality in alignment with evolving global travel trends.
Samsung Honored as Sri Lanka’s Choice Superbrand 2025 📈
Samsung has been conferred the prestigious Superbrands – Sri Lanka’s Choice 2025 award in the consumer electronics category. This recognition highlights the brand’s dominance in the local ICT/BPM and technology sectors, driven by high consumer trust and continuous innovation. • Brand Leadership: The award solidifies Samsung’s position as a market leader in Sri Lanka. Globally, the company has maintained its status as the No. 1 TV manufacturer for 19 consecutive years, a trend reflected in the strong local demand for its premium Neo QLED and OLED ranges. • Market Presence: Samsung operates via a robust island-wide retail network through major distributors including Singer, Singhagiri, Damro, and Softlogic. This extensive footprint ensures high accessibility and after-sales support across the country. • Strategic Value: To enhance local affordability, the brand has partnered with leading banks to offer flexible payment plans, facilitating broader access to smart living solutions and energy-efficient appliances. • Product Reliability: A key differentiator in the local market is Samsung’s 20-year warranty on Digital Inverter Motors and Compressors, emphasizing long-term value for Sri Lankan households. • Technological Integration: The brand is aggressively expanding its connected ecosystem via the SmartThings platform and Knox Security, catering to the growing demand for secure, automated home environments.
📈 Mobil Lubricants Named Best Brand at People’s Pinnacle Awards 2026
McLarens Lubricants Ltd, the authorized distributor for Mobil Lubricants, has secured a top honor at the People’s Pinnacle Awards 2026. The brand was recognized for its leadership in the lubricants industry, reflecting high consumer trust and market presence. • Award Recognition: Mobil Lubricants was crowned "Best Lubricants Brand of the Year 2025" at a ceremony held at Shangri-La Colombo. • Market Position: McLarens Lubricants currently operates as Sri Lanka’s largest importer of finished lubricants, maintaining a partnership with ExxonMobil for over 25 years. • Key Sectors: The brand supports critical economic drivers including maritime, industrial manufacturing, and the automotive sector. • Service Coverage: The company maintains islandwide availability, providing essential support to local logistics and motorsport development even during economic recovery periods. > These accolades, organized by the MUGP Organisation, are based on consumer voting, highlighting brand reliability and product performance across the energy and transport sectors.
### 📈 Allianz Secures World’s No. 1 Insurance Brand for 7th Year
Allianz has retained its title as the world’s leading insurance brand in the Interbrand Best Global Brands 2025 ranking, marking seven consecutive years of leadership. • Brand Valuation & Growth: The brand achieved its highest-ever value of US$ 28.2 Bn, reflecting a record-breaking 20% increase from the previous year’s US$ 23.5 Bn. • Global Standing: Allianz moved up two positions to rank No. 27 among the top global brands across all industries. • Strategic Drivers: The growth is attributed to strong financial performance and a consistent global brand strategy centered on trust and innovation. • Local Context: Allianz Insurance Lanka Ltd. operates as a fully owned subsidiary of the Munich-based global giant, contributing to the local financial services and insurance landscape through its parent company's expertise.
## 📈 Inaugural National Corporate Director Awards to Recognize Governance Excellence
The Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) will host the first-ever National Corporate Director Awards 2025 tonight in Colombo. The initiative aims to enhance board professionalism and align Sri Lankan businesses with global best practices. • Event Details: Scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at Cinnamon Grand Colombo, featuring British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick as Chief Guest and SEC Chairman Prof. D.B.P.H. Dissabandara as Guest of Honour. • Core Objectives: To celebrate directors demonstrating leadership and integrity, specifically focusing on strengthening corporate governance to build resilient institutions and attract quality investment. • Economic Impact: By promoting financial stewardship and sustainable value creation, the awards seek to enhance national credibility and contribute to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic progress. • Key Partnerships: The collaboration with ACCA integrates global standards into the local finance and professional services sector, reinforcing the link between ethical leadership and economic stability.
Global Cinema Record: Implications for Sri Lanka’s Creative Economy 📈
The global film industry marks a historic milestone as the horror film Sinners secures a record-breaking 16 Oscar nominations, signaling a robust era for high-production content with potential ripple effects for Sri Lanka's emerging ICT/BPM and creative services. • Market Impact & Performance: Sinners broke the previous 14-nomination record, outperforming its closest competitor, which holds 13 nominations. This surge in high-value global production aligns with Sri Lanka’s 2025-2026 push to modernize its cinema industry, currently valued at approximately Rs. 10 Bn. The domestic box office showed strong recovery in 1H 2025, reaching Rs. 1.5 Bn, a massive leap from just Rs. 7 Mn in early 2024. • Sectoral Context (Creative & Digital): ICT/BPM and Creative Services: Increased global demand for high-end content supports Sri Lanka's strategy to move beyond service-outsourcing to original IP, such as the country's first 2026 global animated feature release. Service Exports: The ICT/BPM sector grew by 26.71% in late 2025, generating US$ 154.50 Mn monthly, highlighting the potential for Sri Lanka to capture more VFX and post-production contracts. • Key Outlook: The 2026 Budget aims for 7% GDP growth, focusing on digitalization and export diversification. Industry stakeholders are advocating for the removal of import quotas on foreign films to utilize the US$ 30 Mn+ (Rs. 10 Bn) invested in modern 4K and IMAX multiplexes.
## CleanTech Achieves Sri Lanka’s First Good Plastic Certification 📈
CleanTech has marked a milestone in the nation's circular economy by becoming the first company to receive the Good Plastic Standard (GP 5040: 2025) certification. This national benchmark verifies the quality, sustainability, and ethical processing of post-consumer recycled plastic pellets. • Strategic Impact: The certification validates CleanTech's recycled materials as reliable alternatives to imported virgin plastics, supporting the domestic manufacturing and packaging sectors. • EPR Compliance: This milestone provides a credible local pathway for FMCG companies to meet Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations through verified recycled content and traceable downstream processing. • Sector Highlights: • Recycling & Waste Management: Shifts the industry from basic collection to high-grade, certified material production. • Sustainability: Enhances Sri Lanka's profile in the global green economy by diverting waste from landfills and ecosystems. • Supply Chain: Enables brands to integrate ethically sourced recycled materials into their supply chains with confidence. • Future Outlook: As a certified industry leader, CleanTech is positioned to drive demand for ethical recycling, reducing reliance on imports and fostering a more resilient, self-sustaining circular economy.
📈 Lion Brewery Secures Dual Honors at FMCG Asia Awards 2025
Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC has achieved regional recognition at the FMCG Asia Awards 2025 held in Singapore, underscoring the competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s consumer goods sector on an international stage. • Major Awards Won: • New Brand Launch of the Year: Awarded for the introduction of the True Born brand, cited for insight-led execution. • Seasonal Campaign of the Year: Awarded for the Carlsberg Display Drive and Merchandising initiative, highlighting excellence in retail execution and trade partnerships. • Economic Impact: • The company has contributed over Rs. 500 billion to Sri Lanka’s national tax base over the past decade, supporting fiscal stability. • These accolades reflect the company’s 140-year heritage combined with modern operational rigour in the manufacturing and retail value chain. • Strategic Significance: • The awards validate the capability of local FMCG brands to meet global benchmarks through "flawless last-mile delivery" and purposeful design. • CEO Rajiv Meewakkala emphasized that the strategy focuses on balancing leadership with brand authenticity to meet evolving consumer demands in the local market.
Sri Lanka Insurance Life Honors Top Performers at Star Awards 2025 📈
Sri Lanka Insurance Life (SLIC Life) recently hosted its "Star Awards 2025" at Cinnamon Life, Colombo, celebrating the exceptional performance of its sales force during the 2024 financial year. The event underscored the company's drive toward becoming the nation's leading life insurer. • Event Overview Under the theme "Rise of the Legends," the ceremony recognized over 300 top-performing achievers for their resilience and professional excellence in the insurance sector. • Top Individual Honors Key awards for "All Island Best" performers included: Regional Manager: P. Sathiyan (Northern Region) Branch Manager: A. Supesan (Jaffna Branch) Group Leader: A.G.R. Amiyangoda (Gampaha) Adviser: K.G.A.S.L. Weerasinghe (Battaramulla) Bancassurance Relationship Manager: A.L.T.M. Liyanage • Sector Focus & Recognition The awards spanned multiple categories, highlighting the importance of the Bancassurance channel and traditional agency networks. Recognition was also extended to the Platinum Star Club and Platinum Club members, reinforcing a corporate culture centered on performance excellence. • Strategic Impact The event reflects SLIC Life’s commitment to a dynamic sales force as a primary driver for employment and financial services growth in Sri Lanka. The company aims to leverage this talent to deliver superior customer value and solidify its market-leading position.
### Classic Travel Named No.1 Partner for Qatar Airways 📈
Expolanka Leisure Cluster secured a major victory at the Qatar Airways Awards 2026 held in Colombo, with its subsidiary Classic Travel emerging as the leading partner for the airline in Sri Lanka. • Overall Performance: Classic Travel was recognized as the No.1 Overall Partner, outperforming competitors across multiple award categories. • Sector Leadership: The agency dominated the corporate travel and premium travel solutions segments, reinforcing its dominance in high-value aviation retail. • Strategic Context: The awards highlight the cluster's role in supporting Sri Lanka's tourism and aviation sectors, specifically through high-standard service delivery and global airline partnerships. • Management Insight: Director Sabry Bahaudeen noted the wins validate the group’s commitment to excellence and its motivation to raise benchmarks in the local travel industry.
Jetwing Surf & Safari Recognized Among Top Global Safari Stays 📈
Jetwing Surf and Safari in Pottuvil has been officially ranked by Condé Nast Traveller and Lonely Planet as one of Sri Lanka’s premier safari hotels. The recognition highlights the East Coast's potential as a year-round travel destination beyond its traditional surfing appeal. • Location & Capacity: Situated near Arugam Bay with 20 beachfront cabanas designed for eco-luxury and sustainability. • Biodiversity Hub: Proximity to Kumana National Park (eastern Yala), which spans 35,000 hectares and serves as a major wetland basin (Kumana Villu). • Wildlife Figures: • Leopards: Recent data confirms a high density of 41 leopards per 100 sq. km, making it one of the world's emerging leopard strongholds. • Avifauna: Home to thousands of migratory birds, including Black-necked Storks and Eurasian Spoonbills. • Mega-Fauna: High encounter rates for elephants, wild buffalo, and crocodiles. • Cultural Integration: The region features significant archaeological sites like the Kudumbigala Monastery, diversifying the tourism product from pure wildlife to heritage-based travel. • Sector Impact: This global endorsement supports diversification in the hospitality and travel sectors, encouraging decentralized growth and increased employment in the Eastern Province. _Note: Sighting density data based on recent university research and provisional park records._
Assetline Finance Achieves ISO 14064 Certification for GHG Emissions 📈
• Assetline Finance Ltd (AFL), the financial services arm of David Pieris Group, has obtained independent verification for its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions inventory under the ISO 14064-1:2018 standard. • The certification covers Scope 1 (direct), Scope 2 (indirect energy), and Scope 3 (value chain, including financed emissions) across its head office and 61 branches. • The assessment period spanned from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, with verification conducted by the Sri Lanka Climate Fund under the Ministry of Environment. • This move aligns AFL with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Roadmap for Sustainable Finance and supports the national goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. • Key Impact: Enhances climate resilience and transparency in the financial services sector by integrating environmental risk management into the core business model.
🎓 National Educator Awards 2025 Recognizes Excellence in Human Capital
The National Educator Awards 2025 concluded recently, honoring outstanding contributions to Sri Lanka's education sector. The event emphasized the role of educators in developing the nation’s human capital and driving long-term economic development. • Higher Education Sector: 15 winners were selected from 35 applicants across diverse disciplines, including Engineering, Computing, Business and Management, Applied Sciences, and Law. Evaluation criteria mirrored UGC standards for professor appointments, focusing on scholarly work and teaching performance. • General Education Sector: 25 winners were recognized out of 166 applications. The awards ensured nationwide representation by honoring three educators from each of the nine provinces, focusing on community engagement and educational innovation. • Lifetime Achievement: Prof. Sujatha Hewage received the Lifetime Award for her extensive service to the discipline of Chemistry and her contributions to the University of Colombo and the Institute of Chemistry, Ceylon. • Economic Context: The awards underscore the importance of strengthening the Education & ICT/BPM talent pipeline, which remains critical for Sri Lanka’s workforce competitiveness and service-led economic growth.
📈 Permia Sensing wins UAE FoodTech Challenge 2026
Sri Lankan-founded agritech startup Permia Sensing has been named a winner of the global FoodTech Challenge 2026 at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, marking a major milestone for local innovation in food security. • The Award: Selected from 1,215 submissions across 113 countries. Permia is one of four winners sharing a US$ 2 million prize pool, receiving US$ 500,000 to scale its solutions. • Technology: Utilizes AI, bioacoustics sensing, and aerial imaging to detect pests, diseases, and nutrient stress in coconut, oil palm, and date plantations before symptoms appear. • Local Impact: • Manages approx. 10,000 hectares of plantations in Sri Lanka. • Creates high-skill jobs in ICT/BPM, drone operations, and machine learning. • Improves yields by reducing tree loss and optimizing water/nutrient use. • Global Expansion: Following the win, the company plans to scale operations across the Middle East, India, West Africa, and Southeast Asia to address climate-stressed farming environments. The achievement highlights the export potential of Sri Lanka’s ICT and agriculture sectors, turning local research into globally scalable technology for the Global South.
### Tokyo Super Becomes Only Cement Brand to Earn Superbrands Status 📈
Tokyo Super Cement, the flagship brand of the Tokyo Cement Group, has been awarded the prestigious Superbrands status for 2025. It remains the only brand within the construction materials sector to join the elite 2025 list, recognized for its market leadership and commitment to quality. • Core Achievements • Conferred Superbrands status by the independent council of Superbrands Sri Lanka (affiliated with Superbrands Worldwide). • Recognized as the market leader in cement, ready-mix concrete, and cement-based dry mortar products. • Holds the distinction of being Sri Lanka’s only public-listed cement manufacturer. • Product Portfolio & Innovation • Tokyo Super OPC: The country's most popular cement brand for general construction. • Tokyo Super BHC: Recognized as the "greenest" cement in the market with the lowest carbon footprint. • Value-added range: Includes market-leading tile adhesives, waterproofers, and wall plasters. • Economic Impact & Market Position • The group recently expanded its manufacturing capacity to 4 million MT following the launch of a new high-tech plant in Trincomalee. • Reported a turnover of Rs. 16,322 Mn for the quarter ending September 2025, supported by a rebound in the construction sector and a 4.8% GDP growth in H1 2025. • The brand is a key partner in "Nation-building," supplying landmark infrastructure projects across its 44-year history.
EFC National Best Employer Awards 2025 to Debut in Colombo 🏆
The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) is set to host its inaugural National Best Employer Awards tomorrow, January 20th, at the Galle Face Hotel. Originally delayed due to cyclone disruptions, the event marks a milestone in recognizing human-centered leadership and organisational excellence within Sri Lanka. • Event Highlights: The ceremony features Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha as Chief Guest and a keynote via video by Professor Dave Ulrich, the "Father of Modern HR." • Evaluation Framework: Organizations were assessed across five core pillars: Strategic HR, Leadership & Culture, National Socio-Economic Contribution, Ethics & Compliance, and Digital Transformation. • Strategic Goal: The initiative aims to establish a national benchmark for employer excellence, moving beyond traditional profit metrics to prioritize inclusive workplace cultures and sustainable employment. • Organizational Context: Established in 1929, the EFC remains the country’s primary body for advancing employer interests and national economic progress.
🏆 Lumbini Tea Valley Secures Global Titles at Leafies UK
Lumbini Tea Valley Ceylon has achieved significant international recognition at the prestigious 'The Leafies International Tea Awards' 2026, held at Fortnum & Mason, United Kingdom. The estate's signature 'Singharaja Wiry Tips' has now reached a milestone of 44 international awards. • Global Honors: • Winner: Best of All Black Teas (Best in Show). • Winner: Best Ceylon Black Tea. • Highly Commended: 'Lumbini Screw Buds' (Innovative category). • Product Specification: • Grade: FBOPF EX SP (Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings Extra Special). • Characteristics: Golden-tipped wiry leaves with a profile influenced by the adjacent UNESCO World Heritage Singharaja Rainforest. • Economic & Sector Impact: • Tea Exports: This success reinforces Sri Lanka's position in the premium global tea market, focusing on high-value specialty teas rather than bulk commodities. • Livelihoods: The operation is supported by 1,800 smallholder tea farmers supplying high-quality green leaf, critical for rural employment in the Ruhuna region. • Sustainability: The brand's proximity to the Singharaja forest emphasizes the link between environmental conservation and the unique terroir of Ceylon tea. _Source: Based on news reports dated January 19, 2026._
## Journalism Awards 2024: Lifetime Achievement Winners 🏆
The 26th Edition of the Journalism Awards for Excellence will be held on January 20, 2026, at Mt. Lavinia Hotel. Five veterans have been named for the Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring decades of service to Sri Lanka’s media & communication sector. • Upali Tennakoon: Former Editor-in-Chief of Divaina. A founding member of Upali Newspapers (1981), he served as a key figure in the print media industry for over 50 years. He is an author and survivor of a high-profile 2009 assault on journalists. • Pushpa Ilangantilleke: A professional journalist with 45 years of experience. She broke barriers in women’s journalism as the Editor of Navaliya and held senior roles at Lake House, Rivira, and Lankadeepa. • R.A.E. Raman: A stalwart of Tamil literature and media for 60+ years. Known for his work in the Hill Country, he served as the Kandy Branch Manager for Thinakkural and is a recipient of the Kalabhushanam award. • Sa'adi Thawfeeq: Sri Lanka’s premier cricket writer with nearly 50 years in sports journalism. He is the only local journalist to cover over 200 Test matches, including historic milestones at Lord’s (1984, 2006, 2024). • Alexander Balasuriya: A veteran photojournalist with a career starting in 1977. He spent over 30 years at Wijeya Newspapers, contributing significantly to the visual history of publications like Lankadeepa.
## WCIC Prathibhabhisheka 2025 Celebrates Female Entrepreneurship 📈
The Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) held its flagship Women Entrepreneur Awards (WEA) 2025, marking the 40th anniversary of the chamber. The event honored women-led businesses for their resilience and contribution to the Sri Lankan and SAARC economies. • Participation & Reach The 2025 edition received the highest number of applications to date, with representation from all nine provinces of Sri Lanka. Notably, 44% of applicants were under the age of 40, and 31% of the businesses have been operational for over a decade. • Sector & Category Breakdown Awards were categorized by revenue scale to ensure fair competition across the business lifecycle: Startup Micro Small Medium Large • Regional & Economic Impact The awards extended to the SAARC region to foster cross-border entrepreneurship. The evaluation focused on finance, governance, and strategic growth. Chief Guest Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya highlighted that these entrepreneurs contribute significantly to national economic stability despite challenging conditions. • Governance & Standards To maintain transparency, the nine-month evaluation process was endorsed by knowledge partner Ernst & Young (EY). Judges assessed applicants based on business narratives and certified financial data from the 2024/25 period. • Key Supporters Major corporate partners included AIA Sri Lanka (Platinum), DFCC Aloka (Diamond), McLarens Group, and Unilever (Gold), reflecting strong private sector backing for women-led SMEs and large enterprises.
National Business Excellence Awards 2026 Officially Launched 🏆
The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) has officially launched the 21st edition of the National Business Excellence Awards (NBEA) 2026. This premier platform recognizes organizations demonstrating ethical governance, sustainable practices, and significant contributions to the national economy. • Key Deadlines & Venue: Official Launch: January 14, 2026. Application Deadline: March 17, 2026 (16:00h). Awards Ceremony: To be held at Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo (Date TBA). • Sector & Category Scope: The competition features 92 awards across five scale-based categories: Micro, Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large. It covers 29 diverse industry sectors, including: Apparel, Textile & Leather ICT Services Agriculture & Plantations Banking & Financial Services Construction and Manufacturing • Evaluation Criteria: Applications will undergo a rigorous three-tier evaluation process focusing on: Strategy & Corporate Governance. Capacity Building and Performance Management. Global and Local Market Reach. Environmental Sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) integration. Financial Results and Business Deliverables. • Strategic Impact: The NBEA aims to position Sri Lanka as a hub for excellently managed organizations, enhancing the country's attractiveness for foreign direct investment (FDI) and joint ventures. Participation is open to any registered Sri Lankan business with at least 3 years of operation. 📈 _Note: Information based on official launch data from NCCSL._
Concord Apparel & Footwear Win Big at Presidential Export Awards 🏆
Two subsidiaries of Guston Ltd. Hong Kong have secured top honors at the Presidential Export Awards (PEA) 2024/2025, highlighting excellence in Sri Lanka’s manufacturing landscape. • Overall Achievement: Dual recognition for Guston Ltd. subsidiaries in two distinct export categories at the ceremony organized by the Export Development Board (EDB). • Apparel Sector: Concord Apparel Ltd. was named the Best Exporter – Apparel Sector (Medium Scale category), noted for its high-quality value-added workwear. • Footwear & Leather: Concord Footwear Ltd. won the Best Exporter Award – Footwear and Leather Products Sector, specializing in international-standard safety footwear. • Operational Excellence: Both factories utilize advanced automation, digital systems, and hold key certifications including LEED Gold, ISO 14001, and SA 8000. • Economic Impact: These awards underscore the companies' roles in enhancing Sri Lanka's reputation as a high-tech, sustainable, and reliable global manufacturing hub.
📈 Haier Crowned World’s No. 1 Major Appliances Brand for 17th Year
Haier has solidified its global dominance, ranking as the world’s top major home appliances brand by sales volume for the 17th consecutive year, according to 2025 data from Euromonitor International. • Market Leadership Rankings: • Refrigerators: World No. 1 for 18 consecutive years. • Washing Machines: World No. 1 for 17 consecutive years. • Wine Coolers: World No. 1 for 16 consecutive years. • Freezers: World No. 1 for 15 consecutive years. • Strategic Growth & Reach: • Operations span over 200 countries, serving 1 Bn+ households. • Overseas revenue now accounts for over 50% of total business. • Recognized as the world’s only IoT ecosystem brand by BrandZ. • Regional & Local Relevance: • Haier holds the No. 1 overall market share in Southeast Asia. • In the South Asian context, Haier India serves as a key export hub for Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh, with a focus on localizing up to 95% of components by 2025 to improve efficiency and regional supply chains. • Sustainability & Innovation: • Committed to carbon-neutral operations globally by 2050. • Transitioning toward 100% renewable energy use. • Focus on "User-Centered Innovation," adapting products like multi-drum washing machines for humid climates and specific energy standards. Based on Euromonitor International 2025 volume sales data.
📈 SLIC General Sets Global Benchmark at GIPA Awards 2026
Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation General Ltd. (SLICGL), the nation’s only A+ Fitch-rated insurer, hosted the 2nd Annual General Insurance Pinnacle Achiever (GIPA) Awards in Indonesia. This initiative solidifies Sri Lanka’s leadership in creating the world’s first global recognition platform for general insurance sales excellence. • Award Highlights Honoured 43 top sales professionals, comprising 33 from Sri Lanka and 10 from Indonesia. The event was held in collaboration with J.B. Boda, Indonesia, to promote international industry standards. • Strategic Framework GIPA addresses a global gap by bringing general insurance on par with life insurance benchmarks like MDRT. Evaluation is based on 6 performance pillars: Volume recognition & new business contribution. Business retention & year-on-year growth. Sustainability, profitability, and national ranking. • Sector Significance SLICGL aims to transition GIPA from a national initiative to a global platform, facilitating knowledge exchange and raising professional standards across emerging markets. This supports long-term financial services stability and professional career pathways within the insurance sector. • Recognition Levels Sales excellence is categorized into three tiers: GIPA Achiever, GIPA Star, and GIPA Legend.
📈 HNB Assurance Achieves Historic International Gold at Mob-Ex Awards 2025
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) has made history as the only Sri Lankan company to secure a Gold award at the prestigious Mob-Ex Awards 2025. The victory, achieved on a regional Asia-Pacific stage, underscores the growing global competitiveness of Sri Lanka's insurance and digital marketing sectors. • Core Achievement HNB Assurance won Gold in the highly competitive 'Best Campaign – Lifestyle and Entertainment' category. The award recognizes excellence in mobile marketing, innovation, and digital engagement, where the company outpaced several renowned global brands. • Innovative Digital Strategy The winning 'Virtual Avurudu Village' campaign successfully digitized Sri Lankan traditions. Developed with creative partner Kites Global, the initiative used immersive storytelling to engage niche audiences, including the gaming community, effectively blending cultural heritage with modern ICT capabilities. • Sectoral Impact • Innovation: Demonstrates the insurance sector's shift toward digital-first customer engagement. • Global Standing: Marks a significant milestone for Sri Lankan home-grown brands competing against international giants. • Strategic Growth: Reflects a broader trend of digital transformation in the domestic financial services landscape to drive brand affinity and reach younger demographics.
📈 AIA Insurance Ranked No. 1 for Customer Excellence
AIA Insurance has secured the top position as the No. 1 Life Insurer in Customer Excellence at the LMD Customer Service Excellence Survey 2025. This recognition highlights the company's focus on customer-centricity and service innovation within Sri Lanka's insurance sector. • Survey Overview: The 2025 edition of the LMD survey was conducted online, gathering over 3,200 responses across 40 service categories. It serves as a national benchmark for customer satisfaction and trust. • Performance Highlights: AIA placed 1st among all life insurance providers, outperforming peers in service delivery and customer trust. The ranking reflects AIA’s strategy of embedding service excellence into its business model rather than treating it as a support function. The company continues to prioritize digital transformation and feedback integration to meet evolving consumer needs. • Market Context: The recognition follows AIA's recent achievement as Sri Lanka's #1 MDRT (Million Dollar Round Table) company for 2025, further solidifying its leadership in professional standards and employment within the financial services industry. _Data based on LMD Customer Service Excellence Survey 2025 results._
Arava Wins Presidential Export Award for Coconut Substrate Excellence 📈
Arava Ltd. has been honored with the Presidential Export Award 2024/25 for Best Exporter – Coconut Substrate Products, recognizing its significant contribution to Sri Lanka’s export economy. The company also secured the Most Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 (Gold Award, Extra-Large Category) for its founder, Asiri Gurusinghe. Operational Highlights: • Global Reach: Exports thousands of containers annually to over 46 countries across all seven continents. • Infrastructure: Operates 3 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Sri Lanka, employing more than 800 staff. • Product Portfolio: Specializes in value-added coconut substrate products including coir fibre bales, cocopeat, grow bags, cut fibre, and husk chips. • Standards: Fully compliant with international benchmarks, holding ISO 9001:2015, OMRI, and GMP certifications. Economic Impact: • Since its founding in 2013, Arava has transitioned from a basic coir exporter to a diversified global supplier, reinforcing Sri Lanka's position as a hub for sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural solutions. • The award underscores the resilience and growth potential of the coconut-based products sector in driving national export revenue.
Anton Drinking Water Pipes Set Benchmark with NSF Lead-Free Certification 📈
Anton, a division of St. Anthony’s Industries Group, has become the first PVC manufacturer in Sri Lanka to receive the globally recognized NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 certification for its drinking water pipe range. This reinforces safety standards in the local construction and plumbing sectors. • Global Certification: The certification from the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) officially validates Anton’s pressure pipes as lead-free and safe for human consumption. • Rigorous Testing: Products and facilities underwent stringent inspections for heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury), carcinogenic substances like vinyl chloride monomer, and harmful plasticizers. • Sector Impact: As a pioneer with a 35% market share in Sri Lanka's PVC building materials, Anton’s move addresses public health risks associated with lead-based stabilizers found in some market-available alternatives. • Legacy & Innovation: Operating for over 60 years, the group (founded by Deshamanya A. Y. S. Gnanam) continues to drive sustainability and infrastructure safety through internationally benchmarked quality standards.
TV Derana Named Sole Media 'Superbrand' for 2025 📈
TV Derana has been recognized as a premier national brand at the Superbrands 2025 Awards Ceremony held in Colombo. The station emerged as the only representative from the media industry to achieve this status this year. • Evaluation & Selection: Organized by LMD in collaboration with Superbrands Global, the process considered approximately 560 local brands across various sectors. Only 28 brands (5%) were shortlisted and conferred the 'Superbrand' title following a rigorous evaluation of quality and credibility. • Market Leadership: The designation highlights TV Derana’s significant influence within the local media landscape and its ability to maintain a strong emotional connection with Sri Lankan consumers. • Global Benchmark: As part of a program spanning 90+ countries, this award serves as a global endorsement of the brand's leadership and industry standards.
📈 HNB Attains Superbrand Status for 2025
Hatton National Bank (HNB) PLC has been conferred the prestigious Superbrand Status for 2025, following an independent evaluation by Superbrands Sri Lanka. The recognition highlights the bank’s market leadership and digital transformation. • Financial Strength & Scale: Based on nine-month data for 2025, HNB reported a Group Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs 34.7 Bn (+47% YoY) and a Bank PAT of Rs 31.5 Bn (+42% YoY). The bank’s asset base grew by 17.9% YTD to reach Rs 2.35 Tn. • Sector Performance: • Retail Banking: Awarded ‘Best Retail Bank’ for the 15th year. Digital adoption has surged with over 1.1 million active mobile app users. • Corporate & SME: Named ‘Best Bank for Large Corporates’ 2025. The bank maintains a five-year mandate for digitising national expressway toll gates. • Sustainability: Ranked as the overall ‘Best Corporate Citizen’ 2025 by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. • Key Stability Metrics: • Asset Quality: Net Stage 3 ratio improved significantly to 1.36% (from 1.88% in Dec 2024). • Liquidity: Maintained a robust Liquidity Coverage Ratio of 227.45%, well above the 100% regulatory requirement. • Capital: Total Capital Adequacy Ratio stands at 20.13%. HNB continues to drive financial inclusion and ICT/BPM integration through trilingual digital platforms and innovative merchant solutions like HNB Accept.
📈 Commercial Bank Conferred Global Superbrand Status
Commercial Bank of Ceylon has been awarded the prestigious Superbrand Status by the global arbiter Superbrands, reaffirming its leadership as Sri Lanka’s most respected and innovative banking brand. The invitation-only recognition highlights the bank’s exceptional brand strength, digital enablement, and consistent value delivery to the national economy. • Brand Performance & Recognition: • First Sri Lankan bank to surpass US$ 1 Bn in market capitalisation. • Rated as the nation's 2nd most valuable brand across all sectors in 2025. • Recognized as the largest lender to the SME sector for the 5th consecutive year. • Financial Position (as of Q3 2025): • Total Assets: Rs. 3.23 Trillion • Total Deposits: Rs. 2.59 Trillion • Loan Book: Rs. 1.90 Trillion • Net Profit: Rs. 48.02 Billion (52.27% YoY growth) • Pre-tax Profit: Rs. 73.35 Billion • Sector Impact: • The bank continues to lead in digital innovation and ICT/BPM integration within the financial sector. • As Sri Lanka's first 100% carbon-neutral bank, it remains a pioneer in sustainability and green financing, crucial for long-term economic resilience and employment. _Note: Financial figures are based on the Group’s results for the nine months ended September 30, 2025._
Prime Lands Residencies Wins National Award for Construction Excellence 📈
Prime Lands Residencies PLC’s flagship luxury project, The Grand – Ward Place, was honored at the Sri Lanka National Construction Awards organized by the Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA). • Key Recognition The award acknowledges outstanding construction excellence, high engineering discipline, and professional execution. The project serves as a benchmark for the real estate and construction sectors in Sri Lanka. • Strategic Partnership The project was executed by MAGA Engineering Ltd. as the Main Contractor. Architects and structural consultants were also recognized for their collaborative technical contributions to the landmark development. • Project Status & Pipeline • The Grand is now 100% sold out and successfully handed over to residents. • It is part of the "One Collection," Prime's ultra-luxury portfolio focused on high-value urban locations. • Upcoming project: Mon Vie – Thalakotuwa Gardens, Colombo 05, continuing the group’s focus on premium residential developments. • Economic Impact The completion of such large-scale projects reinforces trust in the local condominium market and supports urban transformation. Prime Lands Residencies recently reported robust financial health, with a total revenue of LKR 5.15 Bn for the first half of FY 2025/26.
📈 Galle Ranked 5th Best Honeymoon Destination Globally for 2026
Sri Lanka's coastal city of Galle has earned a prestigious spot in the 2026 Tripadvisor® Travelers' Choice® Awards, solidifying its position as a premier global romantic getaway. • Honeymoon Rankings: Galle secured the No. 5 position in the "Honeymoon Destinations - World" category. It joins an elite list of tropical escapes including Bali (No. 1), Mauritius (No. 2), and the Maldives (No. 3). • Tourism Significance: This ranking highlights the growing appeal of Sri Lanka's hospitality and tourism sectors. Galle is recognized for its blend of scenic retreats and intimate experiences, critical for driving high-value travelers to the southern province. • Top Honeymoon Destinations - World: 1. Bali, Indonesia 2. Mauritius 3. Maldives 4. St. Lucia 5. Galle, Sri Lanka 6. Hue, Vietnam • Global Context: The awards are based on millions of global traveler reviews analyzed between Oct 2024 and Sept 2025. While Bali leads the world in overall and honeymoon categories, Galle's inclusion emphasizes the competitive strength of Sri Lanka’s leisure & travel offerings against regional rivals like Vietnam and Thailand.
📈 Melsta Hospitals Achieves Historic JCI Accreditation
Melsta Hospitals has become the first private healthcare facility in Sri Lanka to secure the prestigious Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation under the latest 8th edition standards. This "Gold Seal of Approval" confirms the hospital's adherence to global benchmarks in patient safety and clinical quality. • Key Milestones • First in Sri Lanka to meet the rigorous 8th edition JCI standards (effective Jan 2025). • Under the ownership of Melstacorp PLC since 2020, the hospital transitioned from ISO 9001:2015 to full international accreditation. • Evaluated on real-world performance, clinical governance, and evidence-based patient care pathways. • Economic & Sector Impact • Healthcare Affordability: Focus remains on providing international-standard care at a "reasonable cost" for local communities in Gampaha and Greater Colombo. • Medical Tourism: The accreditation is a strategic move to attract international patients, positioned to contribute to Sri Lanka's foreign currency revenue. • Diversification: Highlights the growth of the healthcare segment within the Melstacorp PLC portfolio, supporting national priorities and employment. • Future Outlook • Plans to expand specialties and capacity while upgrading infrastructure. • Aim to establish Sri Lanka as a hub for high-quality, accredited medical services in the region.
## Metalabs Secures Silver for mAudit at 2025 ICSDB Awards 📈
Metalabs has been awarded the Silver Award in the Client Implementations (Enterprise) category for its flagship compliance platform, mAudit, at the 2025 ICSDB Excellence Awards. This recognition highlights the company's growing footprint in the ICT/BPM and global enterprise technology landscape. • The Innovation: mAudit is a comprehensive audit and compliance automation platform designed for large-scale enterprises. It focuses on streamlining internal controls and accelerating readiness for global frameworks such as SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR. • Key Capabilities: • Integrated architecture bridging audit, risk, compliance, and ESG reporting. • AI-assisted insights and intelligent risk mapping to reduce manual audit burdens. • Unified platform for evidence capture and continuous control monitoring. • Economic Context: The award underscores the strength of Sri Lankan-linked tech solutions in addressing complex global regulatory environments. By enhancing digital transformation and governance, such platforms contribute to the high-value ICT services sector, fostering organizational trust and operational resilience. • Strategic Impact: Winning in the Enterprise category validates mAudit’s scalability and its role in modernizing governance functions for organizations managing distributed teams and evolving global standards.
📈 Christell Luxury Wellness Secures Global Quality Award 2025
Sri Lanka’s medical aesthetics and wellness sector continues to gain international recognition as Christell Luxury Wellness was honored with the Quality Achievement Award 2025 (Healthcare Sector) by the European Society for Quality Research (ESQR) in Dubai. • International Recognition: The award acknowledges excellence in quality management and strategic service delivery, competing alongside institutions from Europe, Asia, and the Americas. • Sector Leadership: This follows a landmark year where Christell became the first Sri Lankan center to be named Wellness Clinic of the Year for the Asia Pacific region at the GlobalHealth Awards. • Economic Impact: The brand's expansion contributes to the growth of Sri Lanka's healthcare and medical tourism profile, highlighted by the launch of the Christell Super Specialty Hair Restoration Lab in late 2025. • Key Achievements: • Gold Awards: Aesthetic Clinic, Most Innovative Clinic, and Trichology Clinic of the Year. • Best Service Provider in the South Asian Healthcare Sector (November 2025). • Individual honors for Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne as Icon of Aesthetics and Best Woman Entrepreneur. The continued success of such homegrown brands reflects the increasing competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s specialized healthcare services on the global stage.
NDB Bank Showcases Homegrown Digital Innovations at APICTA 2025 📈
National Development Bank PLC (NDB) represented Sri Lanka at the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards 2025 in Taiwan, featuring its award-winning digital solutions among 256 nominations from 12 economies. • Digital Banking & Trade Finance The bank highlighted TradeLinc 2.0, a flagship digital Supply Chain Financing platform. It replaces manual processes with an end-to-end ecosystem, enhancing efficiency for SMEs and corporate clients—a key driver for national economic growth. • Cybersecurity & AI NDB showcased Secure360 2.0, an AI-powered security platform designed to identify and mitigate cyber threats. This reinforces the bank's commitment to data protection and operational integrity in a digital-first economy. • Regional Competitiveness • Nominations: 2 (TradeLinc 2.0 and Secure360 2.0). • Competition: 205 teams across the Asia-Pacific region. • Recognition: Follows top honors at the National Best Quality Software Awards (NBQSA) 2025. The participation of a cross-functional in-house team underscores the maturity of Sri Lanka's ICT/BPM capabilities and NDB's strategy to develop scalable, global-standard financial technology.
🏆 People’s Bank Reinforces Leadership with Record Accolades in 2025
People’s Bank has consolidated its position as a dominant force in Sri Lanka’s financial landscape, securing an extensive range of national and international awards throughout 2025. The recognitions highlight the bank’s focus on digital transformation, governance, and financial inclusion. • Key Financial Scale • Total Customers: 15.2 Mn+ • Consolidated Assets: Exceeding Rs. 3.6 Trillion • Physical Reach: 747 branches and service outlets across the island. • Digital & Innovation Leadership • Named Sri Lanka’s Best Digital Bank (Euromoney Awards 2025). • Gold Award for Most Popular Digital Payment Product (LankaPay Technnovation Awards). • Awards for People’s Pay digital wallet and Best Banking Website. • Governance & Operational Excellence • Gold Winner for Management Team of the Year (AICPA & CIMA Pinnacle Awards). • Banking Sector Award winner at the National Business Excellence Awards 2025. • Top honours for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and data compliance. • Social & Workplace Impact • Recognized as a Women Friendly Workplace and leader in Diversity & Inclusion. • Gold Winner in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Cluster (CPM Awards). • Named among the Top 20 Employers by AICPA and CIMA. The bank’s performance underscores its role as a cornerstone of the banking & finance sector, driving national economic development through modernized, inclusive services.
📈 Jetwing Saman Villas Named Top Wedding Destination at Travel+Leisure Awards
Jetwing Saman Villas has been crowned the “Best International Hotel for Weddings” at the 14th edition of the Travel+Leisure India and South Asia’s Best Awards 2025 in New Delhi. This reader-choice award reinforces Sri Lanka's position as a premier global hub for romance and luxury travel. • Economic Significance: The recognition highlights the potential of the luxury boutique hotel segment to drive high-value tourism. Tourism revenue in Sri Lanka reached US$ 3.2 Bn in 2025, with a record 2.33 Mn arrivals, surpassing the 2018 peak. • Sector Focus: • Wedding Tourism: A key growth area targeting the massive Indian market; tourism authorities aim to attract 500,000 Indian travellers annually with a focus on large-scale and intimate destination weddings. • Boutique Luxury: As the island's first boutique property, the 27-suite resort emphasizes exclusivity, which aligns with the national strategy to increase average daily visitor spend. • Employment & Diversification: Such accolades support local employment and promote regional diversification beyond traditional circuits, specifically in the Southern coastal belt. • Market Outlook: The 2026 Budget has allocated over Rs. 6 Bn for destination development and airport upgrades to support a target of 3 Mn tourists for the coming year.
### 📈 CIPM Announces The Great HR Quiz 2026
The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) Sri Lanka has officially launched the 9th edition of The Great HR Quiz, the nation’s premier intellectual competition for the people profession. • Event Details: Scheduled for Wednesday, 28 January 2026, at the Monarch Imperial, Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte. • Core Focus: The competition is aligned with the entire employee life cycle, covering 16 key dimensions including strategy, talent, technology, analytics, and sustainability. • Strategic Impact: Designed to strengthen HR capability and business acumen, the event encourages cross-industry knowledge sharing and benchmarking against global standards. • Professional Development: • Features a refreshed structure mirroring the digital and human-centered shifts in modern leadership. • Aims to uplift HR standards across both public and private sector organizations. • Encourages employment excellence and enhances employer brand visibility through competitive learning. Based on official CIPM announcements for 2026. Organizations are encouraged to nominate teams early for this flagship professional showdown.
### Phoenix Ogilvy Secures HR Excellence Award at Great HR Awards 2025 🏆
Phoenix Ogilvy has been recognized for outstanding human resource practices in the Media and Advertising sector at the Great HR Awards 2025, organized by Mercer and the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) Sri Lanka. • Sector Benchmark: Selected from 250 organizations across 16 sectors; a rare achievement for the advertising industry in a corporate-dominated forum. • Core Evaluation: Assessed across 12 areas including HR strategy alignment, talent acquisition, and learning and development. • Key Differentiators: • A robust mental health framework featuring in-house counseling by qualified professionals to manage industry stress. • High digital maturity and HR technology integration. • A strategic partnership approach to HR rather than traditional administration. • National Context: The win highlights the professionalization of the creative services sector, matching standards typically found in large corporates and government institutions. • Organizational Strength: This recognition follows a successful 2025 for the group, which included multiple creative wins at the APAC Effies and Campaign Asia’s Agency of the Year.
## LB Finance Honoured for Sustainability and Digital Innovation at ICSDB 2025 📈
LB Finance PLC secured two prestigious awards at the 4th International Conference on Sustainable and Digital Business (ICSDB 2025), highlighting its leadership in the financial services sector. • Key Awards & Achievements: Digital Personal Loan Granting Scheme (Bronze Award): A fully digital initiative integrated into the LB CIM mobile app. It utilizes AI-driven algorithms for eligibility assessment, reducing paperwork and manual intervention. Journey Towards a Low Carbon Future (Merit Award): Recognised for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including financed emissions, with independent assurance. • Strategic Impact: Digital Transformation: The move accelerates ICT/BPM integration within banking, enhancing digital literacy and providing seamless customer experiences. Sustainability: By addressing its environmental footprint and financed emissions, the company aligns with Sri Lanka's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Operational Efficiency: The shift to AI-backed decision-making underscores a commitment to a future-ready financial ecosystem and reduced operational carbon output. • National Context: The recognition reinforces the role of non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) in driving national digital inclusion and environmentally responsible business models.
📈 Sri Lankan Innovation Sweeps Asia Awards 2026
Sri Lanka achieved a significant milestone in industrial engineering at the Asia Awards 2026 in India, highlighting the country's growing strength in intellectual property and high-value technical solutions. • Overall Recognition: Veteran inventor Rohan De Lanerolle Snr received 5 prestigious awards, including Asia’s Innovative Maker Award and Lifetime Achiever Award. • Sector Spotlight: Engineering brand C2S.LK (under Abacus Tea (Pvt) Ltd) won for Outstanding Technology and Equipment Innovation in the tea industry. • Technical Achievement: A patented Sri Lankan conversion technology successfully eliminated metal staples in tea bags, solving a 20-year global safety challenge. • Economic Impact: • Cost Savings: Prevented the need for new machinery costing US$ 500,000 to US$ 1 Mn per unit. • Market Reach: Over 50 machines converted for giants like Hindustan Unilever, Tata, and Akbar Brothers. • Forex Contribution: Generated substantial foreign exchange inflows while preventing capital outflows for the tea industries of India and Sri Lanka. This success underscores the potential of Sri Lanka’s ICT/BPM and engineering sectors to drive economic diversification by exporting patented, globally competitive solutions.
## Oceanpick Named Top Finalist in UNIDO World Sustainability Awards 📈
Sri Lankan aquaculture pioneer Oceanpick has been recognized as a Top 5 Finalist in the Sustainable Supply Chains category at the UNIDO ONE World Sustainability Awards, held during the 21st UNIDO General Conference in Saudi Arabia. • Global Recognition: Selected from over 2,000 registrations across 172 Member States, highlighting Sri Lanka's growing footprint in sustainable global food systems. • Sector Leadership: As South Asia’s first ocean-based barramundi farm, the company was lauded for its verifiable transparency and "carbon-conscious" seafood production. • Economic Impact: Beyond environmental metrics, the award recognizes Oceanpick's contribution to livelihood generation in Trincomalee, inclusive economic growth, and gender equality. • Strategic Alignment: The achievement aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthens bilateral synergies between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia’s "Vision 2030" regarding responsible food production. _Summary based on official recognition at the UNIDO Global Industry Summit._ Would you like me to look for more updates on Sri Lankan sustainable export achievements?
🏡 Home Lands Crowned Best Developer Sri Lanka for 3rd Consecutive Year! 🏆
Home Lands has made history at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards 2025, solidifying its leadership in Sri Lanka's real estate sector. • Awarded "Best Developer, Sri Lanka" for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its market dominance. • Clinched the prestigious "Best Lifestyle Developer, Asia" award, a significant achievement for a Sri Lankan developer on the global stage. Key project accolades include: • Pentara Residencies, Thummulla Handiya: Best Luxury Condo Development (Colombo). • Santorini Resort Apartments and Residencies, Negombo: Best Completed Condo Development. • Bayfonte Marina Resort Apartments and Villas, Negombo: Best Waterfront Condo Development. Home Lands Group Chairman Nalin Herath highlighted these wins as a proud moment for Sri Lanka, reflecting commitment to trust, innovation, and excellence in creating exceptional living environments. • The company has delivered over 3,400 residential units and has over 2,300 units currently under construction across eight mega residential complexes. • Flagship projects like Canterbury Golf Resort Apartments and Villas (Sri Lanka’s largest residential development) are redefining modern, resort-style living. • Supported by a fully integrated group of 13 companies, ensuring world-class quality. • Holds a growing global presence with offices in Australia and Dubai, strengthening international investor confidence in Sri Lanka's residential property sector. • Remains the undisputed market leader in Sri Lanka's real estate industry, according to the latest RIU Brand Health Survey 2025.
Cape Weligama Shines on 2026 Condé Nast Gold List, Boosting Sri Lanka's Luxury Tourism! 📈
• Cape Weligama by Resplendent Ceylon has been named to the prestigious 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List, recognizing it among the world's finest hotels and resorts. • This accolade positions Cape Weligama as the only Sri Lankan resort on the list, significantly elevating Sri Lanka’s profile in global luxury travel and tourism. • Malik J. Fernando, Chairman of Resplendent Ceylon, highlighted this recognition as an honour for their team and a timely positive story for Sri Lanka, showcasing its resilience and exceptional hospitality. • The resort’s inclusion adds to its growing list of accolades, including a Michelin Key, solidifying Resplendent Ceylon's leadership in Sri Lanka’s luxury tourism sector alongside Ceylon Tea Trails and Wild Coast Tented Lodge. • This recognition provides a vital boost to Sri Lanka's global visibility as its tourism industry rebuilds and thrives, reinforcing the island's capacity to deliver world-class experiences.
🎉 Tokyo Cement Honoured for Impactful CSR at SLIM Brand Excellence 2025! 🏆
Tokyo Cement Group received a Merit Award for CSR Brand of the Year at the SLIM Brand Excellence 2025 Awards, recognizing its deep commitment to social progress and sustainability. • Environmental Stewardship: Key initiatives include: • Planting nearly 100,000 mangrove saplings along Northern & Eastern coastlines. • Supplying over 116,000 forest trees from company nurseries. • Deploying over 1,000 Reef Balls for coral reef rehabilitation using upcycled concrete waste. • Renewable Energy Programme: • Achieved 100% energy independence for local manufacturing with 24MW installed capacity. • Engaged 2,500 farming families to plant over 10 million Gliricidia trees, boosting the rural economy. • Community Empowerment: • A.Y.S. Gnanam Village Heartbeat Empowerment Centres offer free skills & vocational training in Dambulla & Trincomalee. • Fountain of Life provides 38,000 litres of clean drinking water daily to over 4,400 beneficiaries in chronic kidney disease-affected areas. • Nourishing the Future school meal project provided 212,500 midday meals to 1,317 students in 11 remote schools, significantly boosting attendance and learning outcomes. This award affirms Tokyo Cement's holistic approach to enriching Sri Lanka's people, environment, and future generations.
Brandix Wins Green Brand of the Year at SLIM Awards! 🌿
Brandix Apparel Solutions secured Silver, the highest honor in the 'Green Brand of the Year' category, at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2025. The award recognizes brands driving measurable environmental impact through sustainable practices, climate goals, and commitment to natural resources. Brandix is a pioneer in responsible apparel manufacturing for over two decades. Key achievements include: Building the world’s first Net Zero Carbon-certified apparel manufacturing facility (Scope 1 & 2). Meeting over 60% of its energy requirement in Sri Lanka via renewable sources. Maintaining a zero waste-to-landfill approach across global operations, ensuring waste is reused, recycled, or processed for energy recovery. This recognition reinforces Brandix's commitment to responsible manufacturing for a sustainable future.
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka Shines at APICTA 2025 ✨
Sri Lanka achieved significant success at the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards 2025 in Taiwan, securing the second-highest number of awards among all participating economies! • Total Awards: Sri Lanka won a remarkable 19 awards, including five category winnings and a People's Choice Award. • Category Wins: • Commercial: 3 Winners, 2 First Runners-up, 7 Second Runners-up. • Tertiary: 2 Winners, 1 Second Runner-up, 1 Merit Award. • School (Junior & Senior): 2 People's Choice Awards, 1 Second Runner-up, 2 Merit Awards. • Key Innovations & Winners: • University of Colombo School of Computing won two Tertiary Student Project categories with "Audion" and "Melodify". • Rootcode secured two awards, including a Business Services - ICT Service Solution win for "Skapp". • Epic Lanka Ltd. claimed two Winner awards for "LCNC Framework with Digital Signing Engine" (Security Solutions) and "Bank2U" (Indigenous Services/Sustainability). • Nalanda College, Colombo won a People's Choice Award (Senior Students) for "Pure Air". This landmark achievement underscores Sri Lanka's growing ICT/BPM prowess and its position as an emerging hub for innovation, significantly contributing to the nation's digital economy and attracting global attention.
Sysco LABS Secures Double Win at Presidential Export Awards 2024/25 🏆
Sysco LABS clinched two prestigious awards at the recent Presidential Export Awards: • 'ICT Exporter of the Year' for the fourth consecutive year, reaffirming its leadership in Sri Lanka’s ICT services export industry. • 'Innovative Export Service of the Year' for SAGE (Sysco Agentic Ecosystem), an enterprise-grade AI platform developed entirely in Colombo. This landmark achievement, celebrated at the BMICH and presented by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, highlights Sysco LABS' significant contributions to Sri Lanka's economic growth. The company's success underscores its role in generating substantial foreign revenue and creating high-value employment opportunities, while setting new standards in advanced AI, machine learning, and enterprise solutions for the nation's technology sector.
Akbar Brothers Shines at Presidential Export Awards 🏆
• Akbar Brothers, Sri Lanka's leading Ceylon Tea exporter, received two major accolades at the 27th Presidential Export Awards. • The company won the prestigious Overall Award for Net Foreign Exchange Earner. • They also secured the Globally Outreached Sri Lankan Brand of the Year Award. • The awards were presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Roshen Silva Joins Elite 10,000 First-Class Runs Club! 🏏
• Former Sri Lanka Test cricketer Roshen Silva has achieved a significant career landmark, reaching 10,000 first-class runs. • He accomplished this feat with an unbeaten century (his 29th) for BRC against Moors SC. • Silva is unique on this elite list, alongside Kumar Sangakkara, as the only batsmen with a first-class average of 50+. • His first-class career spans 19 years, showcasing consistent domestic performance. • Silva represented Sri Lanka in 12 Tests (2017-2019), scoring 702 runs at an average of 35.10, including a memorable match-saving 74 against India. • Other notable players on the list include Kumar Sangakkara (most runs: 20,911, most centuries: 64) and Mahela Jayawardene. • Active players Dinesh Chandimal (recently passed Angelo Mathews) is also on the list, with Oshada Fernando (9,790 runs) and Dhananjaya de Silva (9,616 runs) nearing the 10,000-run milestone.
📈 HNB Crowned Sri Lanka's Strongest Bank for 2025!
• HNB PLC has been recognized as the Strongest Bank in Sri Lanka for 2025 by TAB Global. • The announcement was made in Frankfurt during SWIFT’s annual Sibos conference, following the release of the TAB Global World’s 1000 Largest and Strongest Banks Rankings. • The award highlights HNB’s: • Strong balance sheet quality. • Prudent risk discipline. • Consistent ability to maintain stability through varied economic conditions. • Performance across multiple stress indicators and improved portfolio quality. • This distinction underscores HNB's role as a pillar of stability in Sri Lanka's financial system and reflects the trust placed in the bank by customers, investors, and partners.
AIA Insurance Lanka Shines at CSE Masterminds Quiz 2025! 🏆
AIA Insurance Lanka achieved remarkable success at the 7th CSE Masterminds Quiz: • Secured First Runner-Up in the overall competition. • Crowned Sector Winner in the Insurance Category. • The team, comprising Zarah Juriansz, Kasun Rosa, Madushi Silva, Deshan Pietersz, and Yasas Dulara, showcased exceptional knowledge across international business, global markets, Sri Lankan economy, capital market, and current affairs. • This achievement underscores AIA’s commitment to intellectual excellence and engagement in Sri Lanka's capital market ecosystem. • The CSE Masterminds Quiz is recognized as Sri Lanka’s premier capital market quiz.
People’s Bank Wins Top HR Award 🏆
People’s Bank has been recognized at the Great HR Awards 2025: • Awarded "Best Talent Acquisition Organisation of the Year 2025". • The award, organized by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) in collaboration with Mercer, highlights the bank’s excellence in recruitment and employer branding. • People's Bank was honored for its innovative talent acquisition strategies and commitment to building a future-ready workforce. • This achievement reinforces its leadership in HR among Sri Lankan corporates.
Sri Lanka's Best Workplaces for Women 2025 Announced! 👩💼
Great Place To Work Sri Lanka has recognized 20 organizations fostering inclusive and empowering environments for women, marking the seventh consecutive year of this study. • Study Scope: Over 95,000 employees, including 43,000 women, participated across 150+ assessments from July 2024 to August 2025. Only Great Place To Work® Certified™ organizations were eligible. • Expanded Recognition: The list increased to 20 organizations, aiming to inspire broader adoption of inclusive practices. • Selection Criteria: Organisations needed a minimum of 20 female staff (10%+ of workforce), a valid Great Place To Work® Certification™, and 70%+ positive employee experience. • Key Findings: • Positive experience for women in Best Workplaces is 94%, a 1% increase from 2024. • Pride in corporate image is the highest scoring area for women. • Impartiality remains the lowest, but Best Workplaces outperform others by 20%. • Manager Role Modelling is the primary driver of emotional connection for women in these top workplaces. • Recognized Organizations (Alphabetical - partial list highlights): AIA Insurance Lanka, Ansell Textiles Lanka, ATG Hand Care, EFL 3PL, Hayleys Plantations, HNB Assurance, Intrepid Colombo, ITX360, Omega Line, and SYNERGEN Health, among others. • CEO Insight: Kshanika Ratnayaka (GPTW SL) emphasized that assessing through women's experiences uncovers practices fostering equity and belonging, ensuring women's voices are heard and valued. An awards ceremony and Wellness Workshop are scheduled for December 9th.
🇱🇰 Lungi Secures Back-to-Back Michelin Bib Gourmand Awards! 📈
• Sri Lankan culinary identity achieves a major global milestone as Lungi, the South Indian–Sri Lankan restaurant in Manhattan, secures the 2025 Michelin Bib Gourmand Award. • This prestigious win follows its inaugural award in 2024, making Lungi the first Sri Lankan restaurant in New York to earn back-to-back Bib Gourmand honours. • Owned by Mervyn Winston and led by Chef Albin Vincent, the restaurant is celebrated for its authentic, bold spices and soulful curries, reflecting the warmth of Sri Lankan and South Indian kitchens. • The culinary team includes Chef Rushdhun Ramzy, a distinguished Sri Lankan culinary authority, who contributes an innovative fusion touch to classic tastes. • Signature dishes, such as the Banana Leaf Special Meal, Cauliflower 65, and Mutton Rolls, highlight regional flavours from Jaffna and the South Asian coastal belt. • This success further reinforces Sri Lanka’s growing presence on the international culinary stage.
🏏 Starc Surpasses Akram for Most Test Wickets by Left-Arm Pacer
• Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc officially holds the record for the most Test wickets by a left-arm pacer, overtaking Pakistan's Wasim Akram. • Starc reached 418 Test scalps, surpassing Akram's 414. He achieved the milestone with figures of 6/71 on Day 1 of the 2nd Ashes Test. • The Pakistan legend congratulated Starc, saying his "incredible hard work sets [him] apart." • Starc remains 4th overall on Australia’s Test wicket-takers list, trailing only Warne (708), McGrath (563), and Lyon (562).
AIA Insurance Triumphs at SLIM National Sales Awards 2025 🏆
• AIA Insurance secured 7 individual awards at the prestigious SLIM National Sales Awards 2025, with wins by both the Agency and Bancassurance (Partnership Distribution) teams. • Key Wins Breakdown: • 1 Gold Award: Won by K.W. Dassanayaka (Agency Distribution) in the Sales Supervisor category. • 3 Silver Awards: Secured by Nimmi Gunathilake (Front Liner), Yathave Augustine (Territory Manager), and K.D.M. Thakshila (Sales Supervisor). • 3 Merit Awards: Recognised sales professionals Danushka Sandaruwan, K. Piran, and Indunil Amarasinghe in the Front Liner and Territory Manager categories. • The achievement highlights the company's commitment to excellence and empowering its sales professionals, who were celebrated under the theme 'Ambassadors of Sales.'
Watawala Tea Shines with Double Win at SLIM Brand Excellence 2025 🏆
• Watawala Tea, the flagship brand of Sunshine Consumer, secured major honours at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2025. • Key Awards Won: • Gold Local Brand of the Year. • Silver Product Brand of the Year. • The awards highlight Watawala Tea's exceptional marketing strategy, strong brand equity, and continued market dominance. • Watawala Tea achieved market leadership in the tea sector in 2022, dethroning a multinational giant, and is now a recognized household name. • The achievement is a testament to the team's commitment to building brands that resonate with Sri Lankan families, according to company management.
SLIC Life Sales Team Wins Big at SLIM National Sales Awards 2025 🏆
• Sri Lanka Insurance Life (SLIC Life) was highly recognised at the SLIM National Sales Awards 2025 for the dedication and expertise of its sales professionals in the insurance industry. • The company secured two Silver awards for its Bancassurance Cluster team: • S.A. Joshua (Cluster Manager) was awarded Silver in the Territory Manager category. • S.J. Prashanthi (Area Manager) was honoured with Silver in the Sales Supervisor category. • These accolades affirm SLIC Life's high standards, commitment to excellence, and pivotal role in shaping customer-focused solutions.
📈 SL Talent Shines on Global Stage
Pethum Hettiarachchi: From Thambuththegama to UK Culinary Champion 🏆 • Pethum Tharuka Hettiarachchi, a young artist from rural Anuradhapura, has achieved meteoric success in the UK's high-precision Artistic Culinary field, specializing in sugarcraft. • His journey showcases the high potential of Sri Lankan talent in the global Hospitality sector. Key Achievements (2023-2025): • UK Pinnacle: In 2025, he was crowned the Winner – Professional Cake Decorator of the Year at the prestigious International Salon Culinaire – London. • Medal Haul: Secured multiple Best in Class – Gold Medals, plus numerous Golds, Silvers, and Bronzes across major UK competitions, including Cake International, the British Culinary Championships, and the Scottish Culinary Championships. • Initial Success: His international ascent was built on a strong start in Sri Lanka, winning Gold and multiple Silvers/Bronzes at the Culinary Art Food Expo 2023. • Judges have praised his work for its botanical realism and "fine-art quality craftsmanship." • He currently serves as a mentor to young chefs, representing Sri Lankan creativity and serving as a role model for rural youth.
🏆 Sampath Bank Bags Silver at Presidential Environmental Awards 2025
• Sampath Bank PLC was honoured with the Silver Award in the 'Environmentally Friendly Private Institution' category at the 11th Annual Presidential Environmental Awards 2025, organised by the Central Environmental Authority (CEA). • This is the bank's first-ever recognition at the Presidential Environmental Awards, marking a significant milestone. • The award acknowledges Sampath Bank’s commitment to integrating sustainability into its operations, promoting responsible banking, and supporting Sri Lanka’s national sustainability goals. • The bank’s MD/CEO, Sanjaya Gunawardena, stated the recognition reflects their collective purpose to build a banking culture that respects people, resources, wildlife and the planet. • The ceremony was held in Colombo under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
🏆 DC Group Makes History: First Sri Lankan Agency Wins Double Gold at Campaign AOY 2025
• DC Group, Sri Lanka's leading independent digital and creative powerhouse, has achieved a historic first by winning Gold – Digital Innovation Agency of the Year (South Asia) at the prestigious Campaign Agency of the Year Awards 2025. • Double Gold Victory: The agency also secured a second Gold for Digital Innovation Agency of the Year (Rest of South Asia), marking a dual triumph at the regional awards held in Mumbai. • Landmark for SL: This achievement is a significant breakthrough for the country's creative and digital landscape, spotlighting Sri Lanka’s capability to produce world-class digital innovation and compete effectively against leading network agencies and regional giants. • Innovation Model: Founded in 2017, DC Group attributes its success to its proprietary Fluid Networks Model, which integrates strategy, creative, content, media, and martech into an agile, end-to-end operating system. • Co-Founder Arjun Jeger noted the win is a milestone for Sri Lankan creativity, proving a homegrown agency can be named South Asia's best in digital innovation.
🚂 Sri Lankan Boutique Hotel Ranks in Global Top 1%
• EKHO Ella, a boutique hotel in Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country, has been honoured with the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Award. • This prestigious recognition places the property among the top 1% of hotels worldwide. • The award is based entirely on exceptional guest reviews and ratings, acknowledging the hotel’s warm hospitality and memorable experience. • The hotel’s distinctive feature is its railway-inspired concept, paying tribute to Sri Lanka’s railway legacy through themed rooms and curated vintage elements. • The achievement underscores the quality and global appeal of the nation’s tourism sector, particularly in offering unique, culture-rooted stays. • The hotel's management credited its staff, hosting an Employee Felicitation Ceremony to thank the team whose dedication contributed to the success.
🏆 GNEXT Sri Lanka Bags 'Best Distributor' Title from Xiaomi Global
• GNEXT Sri Lanka was awarded the prestigious "Best Distributor in the South Asian Region" at the Xiaomi Global Partner Conference in Beijing, China. • The recognition from Xiaomi Global, a leading smartphone and technology brand, celebrates GNEXT’s outstanding performance, distribution excellence, and strong strategic partnership in the region. • Company executives noted the achievement is a proud moment for Sri Lanka, demonstrating its ability to perform and lead on a global stage in the technology landscape. • The award reinforces GNEXT’s position as a trusted distributor with a strong dealer network and exceptional operational standards.
SLIC Garners Supply Chain Excellence Award 🏆
• Sri Lanka Insurance (SLIC) secured a Commendation Award in the ‘Best Supply Chain Practicing Organisation – Service Category’ at the National Supply Chain Excellence Awards 2025. • The award, presented by the Institute of Supply and Materials Management (ISMM) and the Ministry of Industries, recognises SLIC’s exemplary procurement management. • Key factors highlighted were SLIC’s strong governance framework, commitment to transparency, operational efficiency, and strict adherence to national procurement guidelines. • SLIC was selected from among 24 nominated organisations, reinforcing its standing as a benchmark institution in responsible corporate governance. • The largest State-Owned insurer continues to strengthen its processes through digitisation and accountability, ensuring alignment with national objectives and public trust.
🏆 Rootcode Triumphs with 6 Wins at NBQSA 2025
• Global technology firm Rootcode, which operates from Sri Lanka, celebrated a remarkable night at the National ICT Awards (NBQSA) 2025, securing an impressive six awards for technical excellence and innovation. • The wins highlight the growing capabilities of the Sri Lankan ICT/BPM sector in developing high-quality, internationally competitive solutions. • Key Gold Winners & Highlights: • Clamigo by Rootcode (AI smart farming for Portugal) achieved Gold in the Agriculture in Industrial Category & was named the Best Product Presentation of the Year. • Urbanora by Rootcode (AI citizen engagement for Prague) won Gold in the Citizen Services in Public Sector Category. • Other Awards: • Skapp (Unified business-operations platform) secured a Silver in the ICT Services Solutions category. • Neuragrid by Rootcode (AI energy grid optimisation) brought home two awards: Silver (R&D Projects) and Bronze (Resources, Energy & Utilities). • Rootcode's success spanned industries from agriculture to public services and energy management, reinforcing its role in delivering impactful digital solutions worldwide.
⛳️ Anuradhapura Junior Golfers Shine at Prima Regional Championship
• Young talent from Anuradhapura displayed strong class at the recently concluded Prima Sunrise Bread Regional Golf Championship in Nuwara Eliya. • Adithya Weerasinghe (Ananda College/Anuradhapura) clinched the prestigious Boys’ Gold Division title. His progress is putting him on the path to earning world ranking points. • Lavidu Premarathna continued the regional success with an impressive victory in the Silver Division. • Vihara Herath secured the Girls’ Bronze segment title with a commanding performance. • Rising prospect Abhiman Abeywardhana triumphed in the Copper Division, signaling a promising future for junior golf in Sri Lanka.
Brandix Apparel Wins Top HR Award 2025 🏆
• Brandix Apparel Ltd. was named the Overall Winner at the CIPM Great HR Awards 2025, securing the highest accolade among a wide range of public and private sector participants. • The recognition was for its comprehensive, future-focused approach to people management, which featured: - Strong leadership development initiatives. - Robust talent analytics. - Structured employee wellbeing programs. - Scalable learning and development opportunities. • Submissions were evaluated across 16 key HR paradigms, including talent development, HR digitisation, and performance management. • The Awards highlighted a national trend: Human Resource Management is evolving into a strategic, data-driven function crucial for organisational performance, resilience, and competitiveness in the country.
📈 ISSO Restaurants Hits Forbes DGEMS 200 List, Global Expansion on the Menu!
• ISSO, the fast-growing, prawn-focused fast-casual dining chain from Sri Lanka (founded 2016), has been named to the exclusive Forbes DGEMS 200 List for 2025. • This recognition validates the company as a global disruptor, positioning it for next-generation international scale. • Core Innovation: Successfully transforming a luxury item—export-quality, sustainably sourced Sri Lankan prawns—into an affordable, scalable fast-casual concept. • Operational excellence leverages efficient, tech-enabled kitchens and a bespoke 'Ocean-to-Plate' supply chain for consistent premium quality. • CEO Apinash Sivagumaaran stated the listing is a powerful validation of Sri Lankan entrepreneurship on the world stage. • Global Target: The company is accelerating its ambitious strategy to open 100 outlets worldwide by 2030, proudly representing Sri Lankan cuisine and high-quality Sri Lankan prawns globally.
🥇 Browns SUMO WORLD Harvester Wins SLIM 'Global Brand of the Year' Gold
• Browns Agriculture was honoured with the prestigious Gold Award for “Global Brand of the Year” for its Browns SUMO WORLD Harvester at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2025. • The Browns Harvester is the country's number one, commanding an impressive 73% share of the national market. The company has a century-long legacy in mechanising Sri Lanka's farming sector. • The Harvester is specifically designed for Sri Lankan paddy fields, engineered to endure local soil, terrain, and climatic challenges. It supports diverse crops, including core paddy, maize, and sugarcane. • A core strength is the strong service commitment, reinforced by Sri Lanka’s most extensive after-sales and spare-parts network. Technical teams travel directly to the farmer's doorstep to ensure minimum downtime, earning widespread trust in both urban and rural communities.
Seylan Bank Crowned Best for Customer Experience 2025 by Euromoney 🥇
• Seylan Bank has been named Best Bank for Customer Experience 2025 by the prestigious global publication, Euromoney. • Landmark Achievement: This marks the first time a Sri Lankan bank has received this high-profile global accolade. • Core Strategy: The recognition affirms Seylan’s strategy of blending robust digital innovation with genuine personal care and empathy, making customer service its "core philosophy." • Market Confidence: The global award builds on previous local/international recognitions and follows a recent two-notch upgrade by Fitch Ratings, lifting Seylan Bank's National Long-Term Rating to 'A+(lka)' with a Stable Outlook.
📈 LOLC General Insurance Ranks 4th Largest in SL General Market (3Q 2025)
• LOLC General Insurance PLC (LGI) has advanced to become the 4th largest general insurance provider in Sri Lanka by the end of 3Q 2025, climbing from 7th place in 2019. • The company recorded a robust 17% Gross Written Premium (GWP) growth, significantly outperforming the overall insurance industry's growth rate of 15%. • Market share increased from 8.89% to 9.06%, signaling consistent year-on-year expansion. • The crucial Motor Insurance segment, which contributes over 75% of LGI's GWP, grew by an impressive 23% and retained its position as the 3rd largest motor insurance provider nationally. • This strategic progress is driven by customer confidence, streamlined processes, strong reinsurance backing, and LGI's position as a member of the resilient LOLC Group.
International Sports Update: 🏆 Thitikul Defends LPGA Title at CME Group Tour Championship
• World number one Jeeno Thitikul successfully defended her title at the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship, marking her seventh career LPGA win. • Thitikul fired a final-round 68, finishing on 26-under-par and securing a four-shot victory over fellow Thai Pajaree Anannarukarn. • Top Prize: The 22-year-old claimed the massive US$ 4 Million winner's prize. • Major Awards: Thitikul also swept the LPGA Player of the Year award and the Vare Trophy for season low-scoring average. • Historical Feat: She became only the second player to win back-to-back LPGA Tour Championship titles (matching Ko Jin-young). • Anannarukarn, the last qualifier, initially cut Thitikul's six-shot lead to two shots before the leader stabilized her performance on the back nine of the US$ 11 Million event.
LOLC Finance Dominates NBFI Sector, Ranks 14th Overall 🏆
• LOLC Finance PLC has been ranked No. 1 in the Non-Banking Financial Services (NBFI) sector by Brand Finance. • It secured the 14th position overall in the prestigious 'Top 100 Most Valuable Brands of Sri Lanka'. • The brand achieved a strong AA+ rating with a brand value of Rs. 11,528 Million (Rs. 11.53 Bn). • The firm showcases strong sector dominance, accounting for: • 20% of total NBFI industry assets. • 25% of industry liabilities. • 36% of total industry profitability. • LOLC Finance is the market leader across multiple segments, including SME Finance, Personal Finance, Islamic Finance, Factoring, and Agricultural Product Financing. • Its digital platform, iPay, handles over 60% of e-wallet transactions, giving the company the largest digital footprint in the local digital banking space. 📈
CBSL Governor Dr. Weerasinghe to Grace Great HR Awards 2025 🏆
• Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Governor Dr. P. Nandalal Weerasinghe will be the Chief Guest at the CIPM Great HR Awards 2025. • His participation underscores the national importance of progressive HR practices in enhancing productivity, resilience, and competitiveness, reinforcing that great HR drives great economies. • Dr. Weerasinghe brings unmatched stature, having led CBSL for nearly 30 years, shaping policy and guiding Sri Lanka through transformative economic periods. • He is internationally acclaimed as an ‘A’-grade Central Bank Governor (2024 & 2025) and was honoured as “Sri Lankan of the Year 2024” by LMD. • The awards, presented in collaboration with Mercer, will be held on 25 November at Cinnamon Life, drawing CEOs and senior business leaders.
Browns' Battery & Tyres Secures Multiple Wins at SLIM NASCO 2025 🏆
• Browns’ Battery and Tyres achieved multiple prestigious awards at the SLIM National Sales Awards (NASCO) 2025, a key national platform recognizing sales excellence. • Major wins in the Automotive/Frontliners category: • Gold: Chandima Ruwan • Bronze: Prabodha Pathum • Further accolades secured by the team: • Merit: Nuwan Sameera (Automotive/Territory segment) • Merit: Dulan Tennakoon (Corporate Sales/Frontliners segment) • The achievement reinforces the team's strong position in the automotive sector, attributed to empowering staff through holistic training and a conducive environment. • Browns has a long heritage in Sri Lanka's battery market, dating back 150 years, pioneering the sector since the import of Silver Exide batteries in the 1920s.
📈 HAC Wins National Quality Award, Highlighting Halal Export Impact!
• The Halal Assessment Council (Guarantee) Ltd. (HAC) was recognised with the prestigious Merit Award at the Sri Lanka National Quality Awards (SLNQA) 2023, conducted by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI). • HAC was honoured for demonstrating outstanding commitment to quality, innovation, and upholding internationally recognised, ISO-based certification standards. • This recognition reaffirms HAC’s pivotal role in helping Sri Lankan food and beverage manufacturers access new global markets and enhance consumer confidence. • Economic Impact (2024 Data): Exports of Halal-certified products were estimated at US$ 1.9 Billion. • This crucial segment accounted for 63% of all food and beverage exports and a significant 16% of the nation's total exports, underscoring the certification's importance to the national economy.
SLC Strengthens Cricket Umpiring Ranks 🏏
• Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has certified 196 umpires who successfully completed the competitive Level 5 Umpires Examination. • A total of 253 candidates participated in the examination. • This qualification is crucial as it grants umpires eligibility to officiate in school cricket tournaments (SLSCA) and SLC-conducted District and Inter-District tournaments. • The Level 5 certificate serves as the official entry point for umpires to begin progressing through the ranks, with Level 1 being the highest qualification. • The ceremony was held at the R. Premadasa Cricket Stadium with officials including SLC Umpires Committee Chairman Samantha Dodanwela in attendance.
🏆 Hayleys Fabric Wins Gold at Western Province Entrepreneur Awards 2025
• The 8th annual Western Province Entrepreneur Awards, jointly organised by the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) and NEDA, honoured outstanding accomplishments across Micro, Small, Medium, and Large enterprises. • A total of 54 awards were presented across various sectors including Industry/Manufacturing, Agriculture, Hospitality/Tourism, and Services. • The top honours of the event were: • Gold (Overall Winner): Hayleys Fabric PLC • Silver (1st Runner-up): TBS International (Pvt) Ltd. • Bronze (2nd Runner-up): Three Sinha Industries (Pvt) Ltd. • The ceremony featured 12 thematic awards, including categories like Best Exporter, Best Innovative Enterprise, and Best Entrepreneur Providing the Most Jobs for Females. • Notable Thematic Winners: Luxman Metal Crushers Ltd. (Best Woman Entrepreneur) and Infinity Green International Ltd. (Best Environmentally Friendly Enterprise).
Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC (TTE PLC) Sweeps National Cleaner Production Awards 2025 🏆
• Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC (Hayleys Plantations) won a total of 10 accolades at the National Cleaner Production Awards 2025, reaffirming its leadership in sustainable tea manufacturing. • The 10 awards comprised Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Merit in both Large and Medium Manufacturing categories of the Tea Sector. • Key Estate Wins: • Gold in the Large Sector went to Mattakelle Estate. • Gold in the Medium Sector was secured by Holyrood Estate. • Other recognised estates include Dessford, Kiruwanaganga, Great Western, Radella, Somerset, Wattegodde, Bearwell, and Deniyaya. • TTE PLC is recognised for integrating innovation, environmental accountability, resource efficiency, and climate action, including verified Science-Based Targets (SBTs) aligned with the 1.5°C pathway. • Global Recognition: The company was recently named the first plantation company globally to be a World Class Winner at the Global Performance Excellence Awards 2024 by APQO.
📈 People's Leasing & Finance PLC Secures National Cleaner Production Merit Award
• People's Leasing & Finance PLC (PLC) was honored with a prestigious Merit Award in the Finance Sector (Service - Large Category) at the National Cleaner Production (NCP) Awards 2025 on Nov 6, 2025. • The recognition highlights PLC's unwavering commitment to best sustainable practices, resource efficiency, and environmental responsibility. • Specifically, the award acknowledges the company's successful implementation of comprehensive cleaner production strategies, focusing on waste reduction, efficient use of raw materials/energy, and green technologies. • CEO stated the achievement inspires the company to promote a culture of sustainability aligned with Sri Lanka’s national development goals. • PLC, a subsidiary of People's Bank, remains committed to driving positive environmental impact through ongoing green initiatives.
PGP Glass Ceylon Dominates 2025 with Major Global & National Awards 🏆
• PGP Glass Ceylon PLC, a pioneer in Sri Lanka's glass manufacturing sector, secured multiple national and international awards in 2025, recognizing its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence. • International Recognition: Clinched the prestigious Gold Award at the International Convention on Quality Control Circles (ICQCC) 2025 in Taiwan for energy optimization, specifically reducing LPG consumption through the effective application of Lean Methodology. • Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship: Awarded Gold at the National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC) Awards for comprehensive efforts, including achieving significant energy savings, 100% water recycling, and circular material management. Won Gold for "Best Green Project of the Year" and "Best Startup Project" (sustainable water management) at the National Project Management Excellence Awards 2025. • Packaging Design Innovation: Secured Gold (for 750ml Still Gin bottle crafted for Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg) and Silver (for Super Premium Vodka bottle) at the Sri Lanka Packaging Awards 2025, showcasing world-class design sophistication. • Operational Excellence: Received a total of five awards at the National Project Management Excellence Awards 2025, including another Gold for "Best Lean Project of the Year" (packaging optimization/reduced polythene) and Bronze for "Overall Best Project Management Organization in Sri Lanka."
🏆 HNB Wins Top Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award 2025
• Overall Best Corporate Citizen: Hatton National Bank (HNB) secured the coveted ‘Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award 2025’ at the 22nd BCCS Awards organised by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. • Runners-Up (Overall): Commercial Bank of Ceylon was the first runner-up, followed by Hemas Holdings as the second runner-up. • Key Sector/SME Recognition (Category B): Talawakelle Tea Estates won the award for companies with an annual turnover below Rs. 15 Bn. Elpitiya Plantations and Kelani Valley Plantations were the respective runners-up in this category, underscoring the plantation sector's commitment. • Top 10 Corporate Citizens: The list included HNB, Commercial Bank, Hemas Holdings, Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company, Dipped Products, Elpitiya Plantations, and Teejay Lanka, highlighting cross-sector sustainability leadership. • Triple Bottom-line / Sector Wins: • HNB secured the award for Economic Sustainability (Profit), while Nestlé Lanka won for Social Sustainability (People). • Sector Champions included Talawakelle Tea Estates (Agriculture), CBL Investment (Manufacturing), HNB (Finance), and Nawaloka Hospitals (Healthcare). • Noteworthy Projects: Specific project awards went to DFCC Bank (Green Bond), HNB (Solo Podi Podi Business: Women Empowerment), and MAS Intimates (Wet Zone Leopard Conservation Project).
🏆 Rocell Wins Gold at Sri Lanka National Quality Awards 2025
• Royal Ceramics Lanka PLC (Rocell), a forerunner in surface coverings and sanitaryware, secured the Gold Award in the Manufacturing (Large Scale) category. • The prestigious accolade was presented by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) in definitive recognition of the company’s commitment to world-class manufacturing excellence. • The win serves as a third-party validation of Rocell’s superior quality, robust management systems, and flawless execution in manufacturing. • The benchmarks for the award align with the globally recognised Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award framework, positioning Rocell as a replicable model of excellence for the industry.
🏆 Corporate Reporting Excellence: DIMO Wins Diamond at CMA IR Awards 2025
• The 11th Annual CMA Excellence in Integrated Reporting Awards 2025, hosted by CMA Sri Lanka and the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), celebrated outstanding achievements in corporate reporting, transparency, and sustainable value creation. • Overall Top Winners Recognized: • Diamond Award (Overall Winner): Diesel & Motor Engineering (DIMO) • Gold Award (Joint Overall Winner): Softlogic Life Insurance and Talawakelle Tea Estates • Silver Award (Joint First Runner-Up): Commercial Bank and John Keells Holdings • Bronze Award (Joint Second Runner-Up): Hayleys Fabric and LB Finance • The event featured addresses emphasizing the importance of integrated thinking in building resilient organizations and enhancing national competitiveness, reaffirming Sri Lanka's global standing in Integrated Reporting.
Sri Lankan Marketing Excellence Recognised: Shan Meemanage Receives FCIM from CIM-UK 🏆
• Shan Meemanage, Chairman of Dutch Trails, has been awarded the prestigious Fellowship (FCIM) from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), United Kingdom. • This accolade represents the highest tier of CIM membership, recognizing his exceptional leadership, entrepreneurial vision, and significant contributions to the marketing profession globally. • With over 25 years of experience, Shan has played a transformative role in shaping sustainable marketing strategies, brand leadership, and tourism innovation in Sri Lanka. • As Chairman of Dutch Trails, he continues to champion purpose-driven, entrepreneurial business models that integrate sustainability and customer experience. • The award underscores his unwavering dedication to advancing ethical and impactful practices that contribute to both organizational progress and national development.
Softlogic Life Wins 'AI Initiative of the Year' at Asia Insurance Awards 🏆
Softlogic Life has made history as the only Sri Lankan insurer to secure an award at the prestigious 29th Asia Insurance Industry Awards (AIIA) 2025. • The company won the highly-coveted ‘AI Initiative of the Year’ for its groundbreaking use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the claims settlement process. • The AI-driven InstaClaim model has reduced claim settlement times from five days to just minutes, setting a new regional benchmark and was recently spotlighted by Bloomberg as a global best practice. • Efficiency & Volume: The AI platform enabled an 82% boost in productivity with zero increase in staff, despite a substantial 38% surge in claim volume. • Financial Impact (2024): The company paid out Rs. 11.1 Bn in health and protection claims, noted to be nearly five times the industry average.
Union Assurance Recognises Top Life Insurance Achievers 🏆
• Union Assurance (UA) hosted a Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) recognition event to celebrate the outstanding achievements of its Insurance Relationship Officers (IROs) from the Partnership Distribution Channel. • The event honoured over 65 active qualifiers who achieved the globally prestigious MDRT status for the year 2024. • Key Global Benchmarks Achieved: The qualifiers included 2 Top of the Table (TOT) and 14 Court of the Table (COT) achievers, signifying the highest standards of performance and professionalism in the Life Insurance industry. • UA stated that the success reflects its unwavering commitment to equipping its distribution force to deliver world-class Life Insurance solutions to Sri Lankans. • Union Assurance is a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH).
🇱🇰 SriLankan Airlines Wins APEX Food & Beverage Award, Retains 4-Star Status ✈️
• SriLankan Airlines secured the prestigious 2026 APEX Best In Food and Beverage Award for Central/Southern Asia, celebrating its vibrant onboard menu which blends international culinary delights with homegrown recipes. • The national carrier also retained its coveted Four Star Major Airline status at the recently concluded 2026 APEX Awards. • Both accolades are based on over one million verified passenger votes from the travel-organizing app TripIt by Concur, recognizing excellence globally. • The menu is highly praised for capturing the culinary identity of the regions it serves, seamlessly integrated with Sri Lankan hospitality. • Key highlights include traditional staples like Kiribath, street-food Kottu, classic Rice and Curry, and authentic Sri Lankan sweets. • The airline emphasizes using ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers, ensuring the authentic zest of Sri Lankan dining is a core part of the passenger experience.
CDB Secures Six Wins at SLIM National Sales Awards 2025 🏆
Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) continued its streak of success at the National Sales Awards 2025, organized by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), demonstrating consistent high performance and sales prowess. • Total Awards: CDB secured an impressive haul of six awards. • Category Breakdown (Financial Service Provider): • 2 Gold Awards • 2 Silver Awards • 1 Merit Award • Overall: 1 Bronze Award (Sales Manager Category) • Key Gold Winners: Pinipa Samadhi (Frontliner Category) and Bandula Kumara (Territory Manager Category). • Overall Recognition: Pubudu Mallikarachchi clinched the Overall Bronze Award in the Sales Manager Category, underscoring CDB's commitment to nurturing nationally recognized sales professionals. The award haul is a testament to the company's commitment to high professional standards and sales ethics in the Financial Service Provider sector.
🏆 Union Assurance Secures 5 Wins at SLIM National Sales Awards 2025
• Union Assurance (UA) demonstrated industry leadership by securing five prestigious awards at the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) National Sales Awards (NSA) 2025. • The wins spanned both the Agency and Partnership Distribution channels, highlighting sales excellence and professionalism within the highly competitive Life Insurance sector. • Key individual winners recognised include Jeewan Wijekoon, Udan Silva, Hassan Deenon, and Achala Wanninayake (Agency Channel), alongside Damitha Wickramatunga (Partnership Distribution). • The NSA 2025, a premier industry benchmark, saw a record participation of over 1,200 entries, underscoring the significance of UA's achievement in sales talent and customer focus.
CBL Foods International Wins Global 'Best in Class' Award 🏆
• CBL Foods International Ltd., a subsidiary of CBL Group, achieved the Global Performance Excellence Award (GPEA) 2025 – "Best in Class" from the Asia Pacific Quality Organisation (APQO) in Beijing, China. • The GPEA is the sole formal international recognition for business excellence in the Asia-Pacific region. The company was also honoured with the APQO International Best Practice – Silver Award. • This prestigious win highlights the ability of a Sri Lankan business to achieve and sustain world-class standards, setting benchmarks for the confectionery industry. • CBL Foods qualified for the GPEA after previously securing the Sri Lanka National Quality Award 2023 in the Large-Scale Manufacturing category. • Moving forward, the company is focused on digital transformation, sustainable manufacturing practices, and global market expansion.
Industry Leaders Recognized for Sustainability at National Cleaner Production Awards 2025 ♻️
• The National Cleaner Production Awards 2025 was held in Colombo, celebrating industrial achievements in sustainability and clean production. • The awards recognised industrialists dedicated to adopting cleaner production methods across their operations. • The ceremony was conducted under the patronage of Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development.
BOC Regains Top Spot: Sri Lanka's Most Valuable Brand 2025 📈
• The Bank of Ceylon (BOC) has been ranked as Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brand in the 2025 Brand Finance rankings, reclaiming a position it held consistently for a decade (2009-2019). • This recognition signifies the public's trust and resilience, coming after a six-year gap during which BOC was central to national economic stability, ensuring financial flows and facilitating essential imports during crises. • Brand Finance's global methodology assessed the brand not only on financial strength but also on governance, sustainability, digital engagement, and public perception (including non-customers). • BOC's marketing strategy is now customer-focused and purpose-driven, differentiating the brand via its national Trust, Scale (660+ branches), and Purpose. • Key initiatives supporting brand value include the Youth Loan (empowering over 19,000 young entrepreneurs) and support for advanced drone technology to drive modernisation in the agriculture sector. • The bank's vision is to remain Sri Lanka’s most trusted financial partner, expand its digital presence with AI, and build a stronger regional standing, leveraging its global Top 1000 Banks recognition.
🏆 AIA Insurance Lanka’s Sampath Thushara Named 'CFO of the Year 2025'
• Sampath Thushara, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Investments Officer (CIO) of AIA Insurance Lanka, was awarded the prestigious ‘CFO of the Year 2025’ by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka). • The award recognizes his transformational leadership, strategic financial stewardship, and outstanding contributions to the insurance industry and the accounting profession. • Key achievements include redefining capital allocation strategies, introducing LEAN practices, and championing digital transformation (API-based integrations) at AIA. • His stewardship helped the company maintain one of the strongest Balance Sheets and achieve the lowest risk-based capital charge, setting insurance sector benchmarks for capital management. • Thushara also chairs the Finance Subcommittee of the Insurance Association of Sri Lanka, leading IFRS 17 implementations and addressing taxation matters within the industry.
🏆 Hemas Consumer Brands Clinches 'Overall Winner' at JASTECA 2025
• Hemas Consumer Brands (HCB) secured the prestigious title of “Overall Winner” at the JASTECA Awards 2025, establishing a national benchmark in operational excellence and lean management. • The recognition, which returned after a five-year hiatus, highlights HCB's consistent, best-in-class performance against a highly competitive field of enterprises. • HCB's success is attributed to its influential adoption of core Japanese management principles: 5S (instilling discipline and agility) and Kaizen (a philosophy of everyday, continuous innovation). • The achievement showcases a successful bottom-up performance culture, where employees are empowered to eliminate waste and generate an average of 20 to 30 innovative ideas daily across the value chain. • The awards are organized by the Japan Sri Lanka Technical and Cultural Association (JASTECA) and honor organisations embodying Japanese principles of quality, productivity, and employee engagement.
🚗 XpressJobs is Official Recruitment Partner for Automobile Industry Awards 2025
• XpressJobs has officially partnered with the Automobile Skills Council (ASC) as the Official Recruitment Partner for the inaugural Automobile Industry Awards 2025, formalised via an MOU. • This marks Sri Lanka's first-ever national platform dedicated to recognising excellence, innovation, and leadership within the automotive sector. • The event is endorsed by the Ministries of Education, Transport, and Industries & Entrepreneurship, and will honour achievements across 80 categories spanning 20 industry sectors. • As the official partner, XpressJobs will play a key role in supporting workforce growth and talent mobility in the automotive ecosystem. • The company will leverage its AI-driven and CV-less recruitment technology, currently serving brands like Toyota Lanka and United Motors, to help both large enterprises and small and medium-scale auto workshops find skilled talent.
🏆 Eagle Logistics Clinches Runner-Up Spot at National Supply Chain Awards 2025
• Eagle Logistics was recognised as the First Runner-Up in the Large-Scale Service Sector at the National Supply Chain Excellence Awards 2025. • The prestigious awards are organized by the Institute of Supply and Materials Management (ISMM) and celebrate top performers in Sri Lanka’s logistics & supply chain industry. • The win is a testament to the company's commitment to operational excellence, continuous improvement, and its strong reputation for delivering comprehensive, reliable logistics solutions. • This national recognition highlights Eagle Logistics’ strategic vision and its ongoing investment in technology, people, and process development—the three core pillars supporting its long-term success. • The company reaffirms its dedication to driving innovation and setting new standards of excellence in the sector.
Akbar Brothers Honoured for Sustainable Tea Leadership 🌿
• Akbar Brothers (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka’s largest tea exporter for over three decades, secured the Silver Award at the Presidential Environmental Awards 2025 for its commitment to responsible manufacturing and sustainable business practices. • Export Impact: The company exported over 40 million kilograms of tea in the past year, strengthening Sri Lanka's global position in the sector. • Key Sustainability Measures: • Operations are powered by solar energy, incorporating water conservation and wastewater recycling systems (ISO 14001 compliant). • Operates Asia’s first Carbon Inset teabag facility, focusing on verifiable emission reductions within its own supply chain. • Utilizes biofuel-powered transport for export operations and has transitioned to recyclable polyethylene packaging, aligning with SL’s 3R policy. • National Alignment: Their strategy is closely aligned with Sri Lanka's Vision 2030 goal of increasing tea production to 400 million kg and reaching US$ 2.5 Bn in annual export revenue.
🏆 Presidential Environmental Awards 2025: CEA Honours 132 Eco-Champions
The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) recently hosted the Presidential Environmental Awards 2025 (Oct 23), recognising institutions, projects, and individuals for demonstrating environmental management practices that exceed regulatory standards. • A total of 132 awards were presented, including 17 Gold, 29 Silver, and 38 Bronze awards. The trophies were sustainably crafted from recycled aluminium tins. • The premier Industry Sector required participants to go beyond minimum Environmental Protection License (EPL) compliance to earn recognition. • Key national sectors honoured in 16 categories included Apparel Industries and Tea Processing industries (Tea Factories), along with Hotels and Food & Beverages. • The Project Sector focused on Renewable Energy Generation Projects (Solar, Wind, and Small-scale Hydropower). • The Institutional, Mass Media, and Social Sector featured schools, NGOs, and Innovations. A new category was introduced this year for the Social Media Sector (Facebook Pages and YouTube Channels) recognizing original content creators promoting environmental conservation.
🏆 Neptune Recyclers Wins Silver at Presidential Environment Awards 2025
• Neptune Recyclers was honoured with the Silver Award in the ‘Waste Management / Recycling’ category at the Presidential Environment Awards 2025. • This recognition by the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) reaffirms the company's leadership in sustainable industrial practices, backed by over 30 years of pioneering experience. • The company is committed to advancing Sri Lanka’s Circular Economy by transforming waste into value through the recycling of paper, fabric, and plastic. • Neptune Recyclers is a subsidiary of Expack Corrugated Cartons PLC and a member of the Aberdeen Group.
Historic Win: LOLC Al-Falaah Named ‘NBFI of the Decade’ 🏆
LOLC Al-Falaah, the Alternate Financial Services unit of LOLC Finance PLC, emerged as a major winner at the 10th Islamic Finance Forum of South Asia (IFFSA) Awards 2025. • Decade Milestone: The brand achieved the rare and defining honorary recognition for the ‘NBFI of the Decade Award’, cementing its status as a regional leader and industry pioneer. • Top Performance: Secured the coveted Gold Award for ‘NBFI of the Year’, recognizing excellence in operational performance, product innovation, and contribution to the Islamic Finance ecosystem. • Key Accolades: The company also won multiple awards across diverse categories, including: Islamic Finance Entity of the Year (Silver) Window Unit of the Year (Silver) Product of the Year (Silver) for its ‘Wakalah Future Cash Today’ (Factoring) solution. Digital Product/Fintech of the Year (Bronze) for iPay. Social Upliftment Award (Silver) for community initiatives. This recognition reaffirms LOLC Al-Falaah’s position as Sri Lanka's most awarded and trusted NBFI provider and a champion of financial inclusivity across South Asia.
Flexiprint Secures Silver at CNCI Achiever Awards 2025 🏆
• Flexiprint Ltd., a key manufacturer of teabags and tags, was crowned with the Silver award in the Extra-Large Category – National Level Manufacturing Sector at the CNCI Achiever’s Awards 2025. • The company was also recognized among the Top 10 Awardees in the country's Extra-Large Manufacturing sector. • The recognition, organized by the CNCI and the Industries Ministry, is based on detailed evaluation of quality standards, productivity, R&D, labor relations, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments. • Flexiprint specializes in supporting the vital Sri Lankan tea industry, maintaining high global standards (e.g., FSSC 22000 V6, ISO 14001:2015). • Its customer network extends across over 12 international markets, including Dubai, Russia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India, and Australia.
🇱🇰🇷🇺 Major Diplomatic Honour for Sri Lanka 🤝
• Dr. Saman Weerasinghe has been awarded Russia’s prestigious “Order of Friendship” (Orden Druzhby) by President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. • This honour, one of Russia’s highest civilian distinctions, recognises his decades of dedication to strengthening diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between Sri Lanka and Russia. • Key Milestone: Dr. Weerasinghe is the only Asian recipient of the award in 2025, marking a significant point for Sri Lanka’s global diplomatic presence. • He previously served as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation (2015-2018). • He currently holds roles including General Secretary of the Sri Lanka-Russia Friendship Society and Chairman of the Russian Geographical Society Centre in Colombo, continuing to foster goodwill and collaboration.
54th Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Junior Athletics Championship Concludes 🏆
• The 54th Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Junior Athletic Championship, held from 1-3 November in Embilipitiya, showcased the talent of over 5,500 junior athletes from more than 900 schools across the island. • Overall Champions: • Boys' Championship: Maristella College, Negombo. • Girls' Championship: Lyceum International School, Wattala. • Best Individual Athletes: • Best Boy Athlete: M.G.D.W. Gamage (Bakamuna Mahasen National School). • Best Girl Athlete: N.R. Ekanayake (Dharmapala College, Pannipitiya). • The event was organized by the Sri Lanka Schools Athletic Association and sponsored for over 13 years by Ritzbury, the chocolate brand of CBL Foods International Ltd.
🏏 ICC Women’s CWC Team of the Tournament Revealed
(No Sri Lankan Players Included) • Champions India dominate the selection with three players: opener Smriti Mandhana, key batter Jemimah Rodrigues, and Player of the Tournament Deepti Sharma. • Runners-up South Africa also have strong representation with three players: Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, and captain Laura Wolvaardt. • Captain Laura Wolvaardt (SA) broke the record for most runs in a single Women's World Cup edition, amassing 571 runs at an average of 71.37. • Australia (semi-finalists) contribute three players: Ash Gardner, Annabel Sutherland, and spinner Alana King. • England (semi-finalists) is represented by Sophie Ecclestone, with Nat Sciver-Brunt named the 12th player. • Pakistan's wicket-keeper Sidra Nawaz is the only player from a side that did not reach the semi-finals to be included. • Notably, no player from Sri Lanka was named in the final Team of the Tournament.
⚠️ Content Not Relevant to Sri Lankan Business & Economy
• The provided news details Tom McKibbin's win at the Hong Kong Open golf tournament (Asian Tour), not Sri Lankan economic, market, or business data. • McKibbin (22) won by seven shots, securing his place for the Masters and The Open. • This report does not include figures related to key sectors like tea, apparel & textiles, ICT/BPM, or other national economic indicators (e.g., YoY growth, FDI).
🥈 Colombo Kickerz U19 Runners-Up at Madras Super Cup 2025
• Colombo Kickerz, the sole international team in the U19 Futsal segment, secured the Runners-Up position at the Madras Super Cup 2025 in Chennai. • Final Result: Lost to XIFT FA after a penalty shoot-out following a thrilling 3-3 draw at full-time. Kickerz mounted a successful comeback from a 0-3 deficit. • Group Stage Performance: Started strong with two wins: 4-2 vs FC Madras Emerging and 5-3 vs Sethu FC, before a 3-4 loss to XIFT FA. • Top Honours: The Sri Lankan side bagged two major individual awards: • Isaac Okoro was named Player of the Tournament. • Coach Shaheer Riyad won the Best Coach award for the segment.
🏆 SLIC Life Wins Top ‘Excellence in CSR’ Award for Education
Sri Lanka Insurance Life (SLIC Life) was honored for ‘Excellence in CSR’ with the award for “Support and Improvement in Quality of Education” at the Sri Lanka Leadership Awards 2025. • This recognition highlights SLIC Life’s continued commitment to making education a central pillar of its CSR strategy, aligning with community upliftment and cultural preservation. • School Infrastructure Support: The nationwide "Pasal Piriyatha Surakimu" program, launched in 2007, has benefitted over 3,365 underprivileged schools island-wide by improving infrastructure, water access, and facilities. The latest phase (May 2025) saw 100 schools revitalized simultaneously. • Student Scholarships: The "Suba Pathum Scholarship Program," introduced in 2014, has recognized over 2,200 high-achieving students from policyholder families, awarding total financial scholarships exceeding Rs 240 Mn. • 2025 Impact: In 2025 alone, 225 students who excelled at the Grade 5, GCE Ordinary Level, and GCE Advanced Level examinations received scholarships to further their academic journey.
🏆 SL Unveils 1st 'Best Workplaces for Parents 2025' List!
Great Place To Work (GPTW) Sri Lanka, in collaboration with Parenthood Global, has announced the inaugural list of 'Best Workplaces for Parents 2025', recognizing organisations with truly family-friendly and supportive cultures. • Scope & Methodology: The comprehensive study ran from November 2024 to July 2025, surveying 64,000 employees across over 100 organisations. Crucially, 33,000 respondents had parental responsibilities. • The Top 10 Best Workplaces for Parents: AB Mauri Lanka Ltd. AmSafe Bridport Ltd. Classic Travel Ltd. Hayleys Plantations Hilton Intrepid Colombo Ltd. Marriott International Omega Line Ltd. (Apparel) Toppan Forms (Colombo) Ltd. Uzabase Inc. • Key Study Findings: Pride emerged as the strongest focus area among employees with parental duties. Manager Integrity and Ethical Leadership were key differentiators for the winning workplaces. Areas for improvement across the wider surveyed pool include fairness in profit sharing and pay equity. This recognition highlights family-friendly policies as a critical strategy for talent attraction, retention, and maximising the full human potential of the workforce.
Qatar Airways Wins 'Best Airline in the World' at Business Traveller Awards 2025! ✈️
• Qatar Airways was crowned the ‘Best Airline in the World’ at the Business Traveller Awards 2025 ceremony in London, underscoring its global leadership in aviation. • The airline’s continued pursuit of excellence, innovation, and world-class service was recognized by a panel of industry experts. • Qatar Airways also swept up several other top-tier awards, including: • Best Business Class in the World • Best Economy Class in the World • Best Frequent Flyer Programme in the World • Best Airline Lounge in the World (Al Mourjan Lounges, DOH) • Best Airline Between Europe and the Middle East • The accolades confirm the airline's dedication to delivering unparalleled customer experiences across all travel touchpoints.
Kaya Daluwatte Secures Historic Win at Singha Junior Golf 2025 🏆
• Kaya Daluwatte (Sri Lanka) captured the Girls’ segment title at the Singha Junior Golf Championship 2025 in Thailand, marking one of the island nation's biggest junior international golf wins. • Daluwatte's winning total score was 215 (-1), sealed with a brilliant final round of 69, securing a two-shot victory over Japan’s Rinka Nakayama (217, +1). • This success follows her recent Bronze medal win for Sri Lanka at the Asian Youth Games (AYG) 2025 in Bahrain. • In the Boys' segment, Reshan Algama finished strongly at 8th overall (221, +5), building on his prior top-10 finish at the AYG. • Other Sri Lankan performances include Adhithya Weerasinghe placing 14th (233) and Thejas Rathis Kanth finishing 21st (245). • The Sri Lanka Boys' team finished 6th out of nine teams in the overall team event.
📈 Bureau Veritas Lanka Secures Gold at Presidential Environment Awards 2025
• Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (BV CPS) Lanka Ltd. was honoured with the prestigious Gold award in the “Environment Friendly Private Institutions” category at the Presidential Environment Awards 2025. • This achievement represents a notable step up from the Silver award the company received the previous year, highlighting a strong commitment to environmental excellence and sustainability. • The award specifically recognises BV Lanka’s leadership in implementing sustainable environmental practices within the private sector. • BV Lanka is a prominent provider of laboratory testing, inspection, and certification services (TICK sector) in Sri Lanka. • The ceremony, held under President Anura Kumara Disanayake's patronage, presented a total of 132 awards, underscoring the competitive nature and high standards of the recognition. • The company aims to continue raising the bar for sustainable business practices and inspiring others in the private sector to prioritise environmental responsibility.
🎓 OUSL's FMS Honours Former Dean Prof. Nalin Abeysekera
The Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) of The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) held a ceremony today to unveil the photograph of former Dean, Senior Professor Nalin Abeysekera, celebrating a tenure defined by transformative leadership and academic excellence. • Prof. Abeysekera's deanship drove significant expansion, resulting in an impressive 70% increase in student enrollment. • Key academic additions included the approval of three new degree programs and the introduction of the MSc in Supply Chain and Procurement and the Advanced Certificate in Human Resource Management (ACHRM), boosting national capacity. • A landmark initiative was the creation of the Entrepreneurship Development and Consultancy Unit (EDCU) and a strategic partnership with NEDA, strengthening ties for SME development and entrepreneurship education. • International collaboration expanded with the Progression Link Agreement with the University of Essex, offering access to 17 MSc programs for OUSL management students. • Prof. Abeysekera also secured internal approvals for a new FMS building project, setting the stage for future growth.
📈 Abans' Tanaz Pestonjee Wins 'Transformational Business Leader of the Year'
• Abans Group Business Development Director, Tanaz Pestonjee, was honored with the ‘Transformational Business Leader of the Year’ award at the 15th Top 50 Professional and Career Women Global Awards 2025 (WIM) in Colombo. • Representing the third generation of leadership, Pestonjee was recognized for successfully re-defining industries through her purpose-driven leadership and 15+ years of experience in retail and brand management. • Key Achievements in Retail: • She was pivotal in transforming Abans from a consumer durables provider to a dynamic lifestyle retailer, introducing iconic international brands like Skechers, Under Armour, and Hugo Boss to the Sri Lankan market, elevating the local retail landscape. • Managed diverse formats, including the country's first international-standard shopping mall and luxury boutique. • Economic Impact: • Creatively supported local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) during the 2022 economic crisis by integrating their products into the Abans Lifestyle retail footprint, ensuring business continuity during import restrictions. • Abans Group context: The diversified conglomerate, founded in 1968, employs over 10,000 people and operates over 400 showrooms across Retail, Services, Logistics, and Real Estate.
🏆 DFCC's Lanka Money Transfer Wins NBQSA Silver for Financial Inclusion
• DFCC Bank's flagship remittance platform, Lanka Money Transfer (LMT), secured the Silver Award at the National Best Quality Software Awards (NBQSA) 2025. • The recognition was granted in the Regional, Rural and Remote Services in Inclusions and Community Services category. • The award highlights LMT’s critical role in promoting financial inclusion by providing secure, efficient, and affordable remittance access for the over three million Sri Lankans working overseas and their families, particularly those in rural areas. • Developed for DFCC Bank by Synapsys Ltd, LMT is addressing the growing need for reliable services, given that approximately 300,000 to 400,000 Sri Lankans leave for overseas employment annually. • The platform offers convenient overseas channels and key features like seamless, cardless withdrawals for recipients across Sri Lanka.
Canon & Metropolitan Mark 51-Year Partnership, Achieve 61% Market Share 📈
• Metropolitan Technologies Ltd., the sole authorized distributor for Canon for over 51 years, hosted the Canon Metropolitan Partner Awards Night 2024/25. • Canon achieved an impressive 61% market share in Sri Lanka’s printer hardware industry during 2024, confirming the brand's market dominance. • The event recognized outstanding performance, with a total of 27 awards presented to dealer partners for achievements in sales growth, service excellence, and brand commitment. • Innovation focus included the introduction of Canon’s new MAXIFY GX7070, a high-performance 4-in-1 MegaTank printer strategically targeted at SMEs and corporates for high-volume, professional workflows.
Ministry Pledges Full Support for Young Innovators' AI Robot 🤖
• The Science and Technology Ministry has pledged full government support to twin students, Sasiru Nimnal and Ramiru Nimnath, from Anuradhapura, who created an AI-powered humanoid robot. • Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena highlighted the focus on connecting young innovators to research facilities and commercialisation pathways to ensure no new invention is "abandoned." • Institutional Support: Key agencies including the Arthur C. Clarke Institute, Inventors Commission, and National Innovation Agency are ready to provide technical guidance and assist in securing patent rights for the creation. • National Plan: The Ministry is planning to establish 100 school innovation clubs this year, aiming to expand the program across the entire school system to nurture talent. • Future Application: The student inventors aim to further develop the robot into a tourist guide, showcasing a practical, real-world application of AI & Robotics technology.
🎖️ Army Commander Honours Athletes for South Asian Championship Success
• Sri Lanka Army Commander Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo commended Army athletes for their performance. • Recognition was for the achievements at the 4th South Asian Senior Athletics Championship 2025. • The championship event was held in Ranchi, India.
Sri Lanka's Hospitality Shines Globally! 🇱🇰🏨
• W15 Hanthana Estate has won the prestigious Michelin Key distinction, the hotel equivalent of a Michelin Star, in the inaugural 2025 global awards, recognising it as one of the world's most outstanding hotels. • Sri Lanka secured ten spots in the highly distinguished global selection of over 2000 hotels, firmly placing the island nation on the global luxury hospitality map. • The Michelin Key distinction was created in 2024 to honour the crème de la crème of the Michelin guide's top hotels. • The ten exceptional Sri Lankan properties recognised include W15 Hanthana Estate, Ceylon Tea Trails, Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Kurulubay, Malabar Hill, Karpaha Sands, Santani Wellness Resort and Spa, Amangalla, Cape Weligama, and Villa Sielen Diva. • This achievement follows Sri Lanka's recent ranking as the 7th best country globally for food by Condé Nast Traveller (2025 Readers’ Choice Awards).
SriLankan Airlines Wins Silver for Digital Sales Strategy 🥈
• SriLankan Airlines secured the Silver Award for ‘Best Sales Growth Strategy’ at the prestigious Asia eCommerce Awards 2025 in Singapore, affirming its position alongside top global brands in Asian digital commerce. • The award recognizes its successful digital business strategy, which has driven direct bookings, enhanced brand visibility, and enabled the airline to surpass key growth targets globally, notably by leveraging Google's AI-supported 'Power Pair' for targeted reach. • Key digital innovations include: Launch of a contemporary, mobile-responsive Internet Booking Engine (IBE). Integration of an AI-powered chatbot for real-time, personalised assistance. Multiple automation initiatives to optimize funnel conversion rates and engagement. • The IBE is accessible via over 60 localized landing pages and 10+ languages, offering a wide range of global payment solutions (e.g., Visa, Alipay, WeChat Pay). In Sri Lanka, customers also benefit from pay-later and interest-free payment options. • The platform is centred on customer needs, allowing flexible mix-cart purchases (tickets plus ancillaries like seats and baggage) and self-service date changes.
🇱🇰 Sri Lankan Design Excellence: Volt Charge Wins Australian Good Design Award
• Volt Charge, a subsidiary of JAT Holdings PLC, secured a prestigious accolade at the 2025 Australian Good Design Awards. • The award was received in the 'Product Design' category for its Volt Charge Level 2 EV Charger. • The product, which features cloud-based AI optimisation and advanced safety systems, was designed and engineered entirely in Sri Lanka. • The international jury commended the charger for its “blending elegant design with intelligent technology” and delivering a “highly customisable experience.” • This recognition is highlighted as a celebration of the strength of Sri Lankan innovation and design in contributing to a sustainable future for EV users globally. 📈
27th Presidential Export Awards Set for Dec 11 🏆
• The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) will host the 27th Presidential Export Awards (PEA) Ceremony on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the BMICH, recognizing top exporters for the financial year 2024/2025. • The PEA is the highest recognition for exporters making significant contributions to Sri Lanka's economic development. • A total of 66 awards will be presented: 15 Overall Awards and 51 Product and Service Sectoral Awards, plus additional merit awards. • Selection criteria for sectoral awards now heavily focus on key national objectives: export market diversification, employment generation, repatriation of export earnings, value addition, and environmental sustainability. • The new government's framework highlights the importance of innovation, product diversification, introducing local brands globally, and developing regional value chains to significantly boost exports. • Platinum Sponsor for the event is People's Bank, with Silver Sponsors being the Sri Lanka Tea Board (SLTB) and SLECIC. Ernst & Young (EY) is the Knowledge Partner.
Sri Lankan Tech Wins Silver at Asia eCommerce Awards 2025 📈
• Sri Lankan platform xCommerz (by Xiteb Ltd.) secured the Silver Award for "Best eCommerce Innovation" at the prestigious Asia eCommerce Awards 2025, held in Singapore. • This high-profile achievement places the nation's ICT/BPM sector among global digital commerce leaders, recognizing xCommerz as an Asia benchmark platform. • The innovation recognized is the platform's cloud-native microservices architecture and its Tri-Modal Next-Gen eCom Solution (SaaS, Hybrid, and Custom), lauded for seamless legacy migration and accelerated go-live capabilities. • The platform was evaluated against the highest standards by a panel of over 17 senior industry experts from major global firms including Amazon, L’Oréal, and NIVEA. • Further supporting the regional ecosystem, Xiteb has announced a free audit service for existing online businesses to enhance their digital strategy and performance.
Celeste Represents 🇱🇰 at Asia Marketing Federation Awards 2025 🏆
• Digital retail firm Celeste is representing Sri Lanka at the Asia Marketing Federation (AMF) Awards 2025 in China, following dual national victories awarded by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM). • The company's Founder & MD, Janik Jayasuriya, secured two top national titles: Youth Marketer of the Year and Netizen Digital Marketer of the Year. • This recognition validates Celeste's exceptional use of digital strategy and youth-led innovation in transforming Sri Lanka's retail landscape, positioning it as a benchmark for customer-centric digital retail. • Celeste emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic as a 24/7 tech-driven solution for grocery and essential delivery, scaling rapidly across Colombo and its suburbs. • SLIM leadership highlighted Celeste's success as a demonstration of the incredible potential of Sri Lankan enterprises to innovate and lead in the digital space. • The brand, supported by Cyaniq, is currently awaiting the final AMF winner announcement, showcasing a homegrown Sri Lankan company on the Asian stage. • Celeste previously clinched two wins at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards in 2024.
🏆 ICT/FinTech Triumph: PayMedia Wins NBQSA 2025 Overall Gold Award!
• PayMedia Ltd. secured the prestigious Overall Gold Award at the National Best Quality Software Awards (NBQSA) 2025, the highest national recognition for technology innovation. • Their application, BoC Flex (developed for Bank of Ceylon), was recognized as the "Best of the Best Software Application in Sri Lanka." • BoC Flex additionally won the Gold Award in the Digital Government category. • This achievement underscores PayMedia’s evolution from a small startup to a leading FinTech enterprise, highlighting its technical superiority, scalability, and national impact in transforming the local banking and payment automation landscape. • The company plans ambitious future expansion into international markets and the introduction of next-generation technologies powered by AI, automation, and data analytics. • PayMedia maintains crucial partnerships with leading institutions, including Bank of Ceylon, Sampath Bank PLC, and National Savings Bank, driving Sri Lanka's digital transformation agenda.
SL Insurance Life Sales Team Shines at NAFLIA 2024 🏆
• Sri Lanka Insurance Life (SLICLL) sales team was recognised for their exceptional achievements at the Life Insurance Industry Sales Awards 2024, held during the 16th National Forum for Life Insurance Advisors (NAFLIA). • Two top performers secured prestigious National Level awards in their respective categories, competing within the Large-scale Company Category: • A. Supesan (Jaffna Branch): Silver award for Best Branch Manager. • Amila Prasad (Kiribathgoda Branch): Bronze award for Best Supervisor.
📈 Epic Tech Dominates NBQSA 2025 with Record Wins in Fintech & ICT
• Epic Technology Group secured the highest number of accolades at the 27th National ICT Awards – NBQSA 2025, winning an impressive 11 awards. • This total included 4 Gold Awards, the maximum achieved by any single organization this year, reaffirming its supremacy in Sri Lanka’s ICT and fintech landscape. • Key Gold Award Wins: • Banking & Finance: "E-Switch with FraudGuard and Reconciliation" (Gold) and "UBgo NEO Banking Hub" (Bronze) underscore the company’s strength in secure digital transactions and financial technology. • Public Sector Digitalisation: Gold for "LCNC Framework with Digital Signing Engine," supporting government workflow automation and secure digital signing. • Financial Inclusion: Gold and National Overall Silver for "Bank2U – Financial Inclusivity Backbone," crucial for delivering real-time financial services to underserved communities. • Industry Diversification: Gold for the "Affiniti Environment Monitoring System (EMS)," marking successful expansion into mission-critical IoT solutions for utilities and resources. • Additional recognition included the Data Analytics Technology of the Year Award and a Silver Award for a Smart Financing Suite, highlighting Epic's data intelligence and automation prowess. • Leadership emphasized the wins as a testament to their unwavering commitment to innovation and advancing Sri Lanka’s digital economy.
🏆 CEAT Kelani Secures Double Honours at CNCI Achiever Awards 2025
CEAT Kelani Holdings won the National Silver Award and a Top 10 award in the 'Extra-Large Manufacturing Sector' at the prestigious 2025 CNCI Achiever Awards, cementing its status as a foremost industrial enterprise. • The double honours recognize the company's excellence across multiple stringent criteria, including financial strength, value addition, productivity, innovation, quality assurance, and environmental/social commitment. • Financial Outlook & Investment: • Fitch Ratings reaffirmed its National Long-Term Rating at ‘AA+(lka)/Stable’ for the fourth consecutive year. • The company projects an 18% increase in sales volume in FY2025, with a 10% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) projected through FY2028. • A new investment of Rs. 4.5 Bn is pledged for acquiring advanced technology and quality improvements across the product portfolio. • Sustainability & Operational Excellence: • Operations are guided by its proprietary Quality Based Management (QBM) system. • Environmental initiatives include a 2.4 MW rooftop solar power system and quantification of GHG emissions (ISO 14064-1:2018). • Social responsibility efforts include educational support for the children of the rubber cultivator community.
George Steuart Health Achievers Night 2025: Celebrating Excellence & Local Manufacturing Push 📈
• George Steuart Health (GSH), a key player and among the top four pharmaceutical firms in Sri Lanka, recently hosted Achievers Night 2025 in Colombo to honour the outstanding performance of its over 600 employees and distribution partners. • The event recognised excellence in sales revenue and growth across four categories: Pharma, Non-Pharma, Distribution Partners, and Sales Team. • Leadership highlighted that despite a year marked by "unprecedented challenges" and industry changes, the teams not only persevered but "thrived," expanding global partnerships and market reach. • Key Future Strategy: GSH announced a significant strategic entry into local pharmaceutical manufacturing. • This move aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s healthcare ecosystem, ensure greater accessibility to advanced medical solutions, and facilitate the development of new chemical entities and products "made right here at home."
🏆 St. Regis Packaging Wins Top Presidential Environment Award for Carbon Zero Tea Solution
• St. Regis Packaging Ltd. secured the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Environmental Sustainability at the Presidential Environment Awards 2025 (23 Oct, BMICH). • The award recognizes the company's pioneering achievement in introducing the world's first Carbon Zero bulk tea package. • This ground-breaking sustainable solution replaces traditional tea sacks and rigid sacks with eco-friendly, carbon-neutral paper sacks. • The innovation highlights Sri Lanka’s potential to lead globally in low-carbon, eco-friendly manufacturing. • St. Regis Packaging is driving a greener, more sustainable future for the nation’s crucial tea industry through continued innovation, renewable energy integration, and waste reduction initiatives.
🏆 St. Anthony’s Solar Honoured for Sustainable Energy Leadership
• St. Anthony's Solar was awarded the prestigious “Sustainable Adoption of Renewable Energy Award” at the Sri Lankan Sustainability Awards 2025, presented by the Chartered Institute of Builders (CIOB). • The recognition underscores the company’s pivotal role in driving Sri Lanka's transition to a low-carbon economy over 15+ years. • Key Achievements: • Installed over 500 solar systems islandwide. • Deployed over 100,000 solar panels. • Generated over 10 MW of clean energy, significantly reducing fossil fuel dependence. • The company has also spearheaded large-scale solar power projects exceeding 1 MW capacity, serving homes, businesses, and industries. • Supported by the respected 80-year-old St. Anthony’s Group, the company plans to scale up large-scale solar projects further and invest in next-generation technologies to redefine Sri Lanka's energy mix. • This milestone reinforces their position as a trusted frontrunner in the nation’s renewable energy transformation.
📈 SLIIT Academics Rank in World's Top 2%; Eyes Global Top 1000
• Global Recognition: Six SLIIT academics were recognised as World's Top 2% Scientists in the prestigious Stanford-Elsevier ranking (Single-Year Impact, 2024), asserting the institute's growing research presence. • Key Research Fields: The recognition spans critical areas for national development, including sustainable energy, technology, automation, health, and biosciences. • National Economic Role: The institute affirmed its role as a key economic stakeholder, contributing Rs. 1.5 Billion (Bn) in taxes to the Government in the last financial year. • Strategic Vision: SLIIT’s long-term goal is to be listed among the world’s top 1,000 universities, with an aspirational vision to become the 'Harvard of Sri Lanka'. • Research Expansion: The institution aims to increase its globally-ranked academics from 6 to at least 20. Plans include scaling up the annual PhD student intake to 100-200 (with scholarships) and enhancing research facilities by next year. • Funding & Collaboration: SLIIT stresses the need for expanded foreign university collaborations and active pursuit of international funding to sustain high-calibre research.
🏆 EFutures Sweeps National Tech Awards, Securing Triple Gold Wins in 2025
• Sri Lankan ICT/BPM firm EFutures achieved a landmark success by winning Gold awards at three of the nation’s leading technology events in 2025: NBQSA, SLASSCOM National Ingenuity Awards, and BestWeb.lk. • Major Gold Wins Highlight Technical Excellence: • National ICT Awards (NBQSA): Gold in Health and Well-being in Inclusions and Community Service, plus a Silver and Merit in the Transport and Industrial category. • SLASSCOM Ingenuity Awards: Gold for Best Innovative Product in the Transport and Logistics category. • BestWeb.lk: Double Gold for Website and Mobile User Experience (UX) in the Leasing and Finance category. • The achievements reinforce EFutures’ position as a leading AI-based software development company, with over 25 years of experience, 200+ employees, and a primary focus on the US and Sweden markets. • Co-Founder Prashan Nagendra noted that the wins are proof of the teams' passion and relentless pursuit of innovation.
🇱🇰 Christell Luxury Wellness makes history, crowned Asia-Pacific's Wellness Clinic of the Year 🏆
• Christell Luxury Wellness is the first Sri Lankan aesthetics centre to win the prestigious "Wellness Clinic of the Year" for the entire Asia Pacific region at the GlobalHealth Aesthetics and Wellness Summit in Singapore. • This marks the first time a Sri Lankan medical wellness brand has received such recognition globally, strongly positioning the country as a rising destination for medical wellness tourism. • Gold Wins: The clinic secured Gold in three additional major categories: • Aesthetic Clinic of the Year • Most Innovative Clinic of the Year • Trichology Clinic (Non-Transplant) of the Year • CEO and Medical Director Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne was individually recognised as the Sri Lanka Aesthetic and Wellness Icon. • The achievement showcases Sri Lanka's capability to lead in the sector by combining traditional healing (Ayurveda) with world-class evidence-based medical aesthetics and longevity treatments.
Aitken Spence Clinches 4 Wins at Top50 Professional and Career Women Global Awards 2025 🏆
• Aitken Spence PLC secured a remarkable 4 accolades at the 15th Top50 Professional and Career Women Global Awards 2025, hosted by Women in Management (WIM). • Key Leadership Recognition: Chairperson Stasshani Jayawardena was honored with the prestigious ‘Trailblazing Corporate Leader’ award for her visionary impact on the corporate landscape. • Corporate Excellence: The Group's commitment to gender equity was underscored by Aitken Spence Logistics winning the ‘Best Corporate for Women Leadership’ award. • Career Excellence Wins: Two executives were recognized in the Career Excellence category: • Dilrukshi Kudaliyanage (Aitken Spence Aviation) for ‘Women in Aviation and Leadership’. • Stephanie Rahaman (Group Corporate Communication) for ‘Media and Communication Professional’. • These awards reflect the conglomerate's dedication to empowering women leaders and fostering excellence across its diverse business sectors.
🥉 Kaya Daluwatte Wins Historic Bronze at Asian Youth Games 2025
• Sri Lanka’s rising golf star, Kaya Daluwatte, made history by securing the Bronze medal for the nation. • The achievement was in the Girls’ Golf event at the Asian Youth Games 2025. • The competition took place at the Royal Golf Club in Bahrain.
🇱🇰 Jaffna Named Lonely Planet's Top 25 Best Places to Visit in 2026 🌍
• Global travel publication Lonely Planet has selected Jaffna as one of the Top 25 Best Places to Visit in the World for 2026. • This inclusion is a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s international Tourism profile. • The recognition underscores the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage and supports its ongoing strategy to promote regional diversity in tourism development. • Jaffna is listed alongside iconic global destinations such as Peru, Maine (USA), Cádiz (Spain), and Botswana. • Lonely Planet is one of the world's most trusted travel media brands, founded in 1970.
Amana Bank Clinches South Asia's 'Bank of the Decade' Title 🏆
Amana Bank has been significantly recognized at the 10th Islamic Finance Forum of South Asia (IFFSA) Awards, affirming its leadership in non-interest-based Islamic banking across the region (covering Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives, Bangladesh, and India). Key Accolades Received: • Bank of the Decade: Awarded for consistent growth, resilience, and commitment to a people-friendly, development-focused banking model over the past ten years. • Social Upliftment Project of the Decade: Secured for its flagship CSR initiative, OrphanCare, which provides financial assistance and support to orphans transitioning into adult life at age 18. The Bank notably bears all administrative costs. • Social Upliftment Project of the Year 2024: Won for its impactful Knowledge Marketing and Financial Literacy programmes, designed to empower underbanked segments, entrepreneurs, women, and youth. • ESG Excellence: The Bank also secured the prestigious Gold Award for its strong adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance standards and ethical practices. • Sharia Scholar Recognition: Ash-Sheik Nazhan Naurooz, the Bank’s in-house Sharia Advisor, was honored with the newly introduced 'Best Sharia Scholar Award 2025'.
Port City Colombo (PCC) Triumphs with Next-Gen Financial Hub Award 📈
• PCC secured the prestigious Visionary Award for Next-Generation Financial Hub Development at the Asian Digital Finance Forum and Awards 2025. • The recognition honors PCC's pioneering vision to establish an AI- and fintech-ready international business hub and financial centre, positioned as a future gateway for global finance. • Port City Colombo is highlighted as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s national strategy to integrate digital infrastructure, global investment, and next-generation financial services. • The project aims to redefine Sri Lanka's historic role as a trade hub for the digital age, establishing it as a regional centre for innovation and capital at the Indian Ocean crossroads. • The awards, held at PCC, celebrated excellence in AI and digital finance, with other honorees including Nium (Singapore) and Paytm (India).
🏆 Kemcare Technologies Certified as Great Place to Work in Sri Lanka
• Kemcare Technologies Ltd. has officially been certified as a Great Place To Work (GPTW) in Sri Lanka, effective from September 2025. • The certification, awarded by the global authority on workplace culture, recognises Kemcare’s commitment to fostering an inspiring, inclusive, and people-driven work environment. • The company highlighted that this achievement reflects the high level of trust, teamwork, and passion within its culture. • This successful certification reinforces the dedication of the ICT/BPM related firm to setting new benchmarks in workplace culture and organisational growth.
PLC Al-Safa Secures Six Major Wins at IFFSA Awards 2025 🏆
People’s Leasing & Finance PLC’s Islamic Finance Unit, PLC Al-Safa, bagged six prestigious honours at the 10th Islamic Finance Forum of South Asia (IFFSA) Awards 2025, coinciding with its two decades of service. • Total Recognition: Six awards across individual and institutional categories, strengthening its position in the South Asian Islamic NBFI sector. • Institutional Gold Wins: • Islamic Finance Branch of the Year (Puttalam Al-Safa Branch). • Digital Marketing Campaign of the Year. • Other Institutional Success: • Silver for Islamic NBFI Window/Unit of the Year. • Bronze for Islamic Finance Window/Unit of the Year. • Individual Excellence: Gold for Branch Executive of the Year (A.F.M. Faiz) and Silver for Islamic Banker/Employee of the Year (S. Firdhouse). • Industry Milestone: The unit also received special recognition for its 20-year contribution to the Islamic banking and finance industry, following 11 recent wins at the SLIBFI Awards.
🏆 Chrysalis CEO Ashika Gunasena Honoured for Women MSME Empowerment
• Chrysalis Chief Executive Officer Ashika Gunasena was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Women MSME Empowerment award at the WIM MSME Awards 2025. • The award recognizes Ashika’s leadership and Chrysalis’ vital role in advancing gender equality and inclusive growth, particularly for women-led Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). • Chrysalis operates across 18 districts, directly reaching over 210,000 women and youth and indirectly impacting 9.5 million people through empowerment programs. • Initiatives like 'Made by Her' and 'Advisory Services' focus on connecting women entrepreneurs to sustainable market opportunities and promoting economic empowerment. • This recognition reaffirms the commitment to championing women’s leadership as a key driver of Sri Lanka’s development.
Dutch Trails Secures Bronze at Presidential Environment Awards 2025 🏆
• Homegrown travel company Dutch Trails was honoured at the Presidential Environment Awards 2025, organised by the Environment Ministry and the Central Environmental Authority (CEA). • The company won the Bronze Award in the Environmentally friendly private institution category. • This accolade recognises Dutch Trails' exceptional commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental conservation, and community development in Sri Lanka. • Chairman Shan Meemanage highlighted the firm's mission of integrating sustainability into all operations, including eco-conscious travel planning and empowering local communities. • The ceremony, held at the BMICH, was graced by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
🏆 Chrysalis CEO Ashika Gunasena Honoured for Women MSME Empowerment
• Chrysalis Chief Executive Officer Ashika Gunasena was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Women MSME Empowerment award at the WIM MSME Awards 2025. • The award recognizes Ashika’s leadership and Chrysalis’ vital role in advancing gender equality and inclusive growth, particularly for women-led Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). • Chrysalis operates across 18 districts, directly reaching over 210,000 women and youth and indirectly impacting 9.5 million people through empowerment programs. • Initiatives like 'Made by Her' and 'Advisory Services' focus on connecting women entrepreneurs to sustainable market opportunities and promoting economic empowerment. • This recognition reaffirms the commitment to championing women’s leadership as a key driver of Sri Lanka’s development.
SL Insurance Veteran Nihal Senaratne Honoured by CII 🏆
• Historic Recognition: Nihal Senaratne, Chairman of Senaratne Insurance Brokers Ltd., has been honoured by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) of London for his outstanding Lifetime Contribution to the insurance profession. • Unprecedented Feat: The accolade is believed to be the first of its kind ever issued by the CII – London, marking a truly historic moment for the Sri Lankan insurance community and underscoring its growing global recognition. • Seven-Decade Legacy: Senaratne's illustrious career spans an unprecedented 72 years (since 1953), known for his visionary leadership, technical expertise, and dedication to elevating professional standards. • Key Contributions: He was instrumental in founding the Sri Lanka Insurance Institute (SLII) and served as its President, strengthening its affiliation with the CII. He also chaired the Insurance Advisory Committee of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce for nearly two decades. • Sectoral Impact: Beyond insurance broking, Senaratne also notably served as Chairman of the Colombo Tea Traders Association, contributing significantly to a core national export commodity.
SLT-MOBITEL Clinches Record 5 Wins at 2025 International ARC Awards 🏆
• SLT-MOBITEL secured a total of five honours (3 Gold and 2 Bronze) at the 39th Annual International ARC Awards, often called the 'Academy Awards of Annual Reports.' • The company's 2024 Annual Report, 'Where Life Syncs,' was recognized globally, demonstrating excellence in transparency, design, and storytelling. The report covers not just financials, but also sustainability efforts, strategic initiatives, and stakeholder value creation. • Gold Awards were received for: • Written Text (for including non-financial information) • Interior Design • Infographics (All within the Telecommunications Service Provider category). • Bronze Awards were secured for Cover Photo/Design and Illustrations, reinforcing visual excellence and brand presentation. • The awards affirm SLT-MOBITEL's position as a leader in integrated corporate reporting, selected from 1,375 entries from 28 countries in a competition where only the top 30% achieve award status.
ComBank Secures 23rd 'Best Bank' Award from Global Finance 🏆
• Commercial Bank of Ceylon (ComBank) was formally presented the Global Finance ‘Best Bank in Sri Lanka’ award. • This marks a significant milestone, as it is the 23rd year ComBank has secured this specific international accolade from Global Finance. • The presentation ceremony took place in Washington DC, traditionally held during the annual IMF/World Bank meetings. • The award was accepted by ComBank’s Chairman Sharhan Muhseen and Managing Director/CEO Sanath Manatunge.
📈 SL's Third Shift Media Secures Gold Dragon at Asia Awards
• Independent Sri Lankan agency, Third Shift Media, secured a prestigious Gold Dragon at the Dragons of Asia Awards 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. • This achievement reinforces Sri Lanka's creative excellence on the regional stage for innovative and effective marketing communications campaigns across Asia. • The award-winning campaign was executed for client Lipton Teas and Infusions, highlighting the synergy between SL's creative talent and the global tea sector. • The win builds on its 2024 recognition as Best Media Agency in Sri Lanka (4A’s) and Best Media Agency in the Rest of South Asia (Campaign Asia). • Founded in 2017, the agency is noted for pioneering a new model of collaboration, synergising with fellow partners and extending beyond the industry to academia.
SLII Hall of Fame Honour for Continental Insurance CEO Gerry Gunadasa 🏆
• Continental Insurance CEO, Gerry Gunadasa, has been inducted into the prestigious Sri Lanka Insurance Institute (SLII) Hall of Fame. • This tribute was presented at the 22nd International Insurance Congress 2025, recognizing a distinguished career spanning over six decades, starting in 1962. • His journey includes holding senior management positions locally and significant international experience. • Global Exposure: Served as Branch Manager for INSCO Dubai (1981-1991) and Head of General Insurance and Underwriting at the National Company for Cooperative Insurance in Saudi Arabia (1991-2002). • Mr. Gunadasa, a respected Chartered Insurer, joined Continental Insurance at its inception in 2009 and continues to lead as CEO. • He is also lauded for his commitment to the advancement of insurance education and professional development as a dedicated lecturer and trainer.
LTL Transformers Secures Top Global Performance Excellence Award 🏆
• LTL Transformers Ltd., the nation’s premier transformer manufacturer, has been honoured with the Global Performance Excellence Award (GPEA) under the prestigious World-Class Category. • This is the highest category of the GPEA, presented by the Asia Pacific Quality Organisation (APQO), the region's top recognition for organisational excellence. • The award was conferred at the 30th APQO International Conference held in Beijing, China (October 2025). • The GPEA evaluates organisations on rigorous global models across seven areas, including Leadership, Operations, and Business Results, affirming a strong commitment to continuous improvement. • This global distinction places Sri Lankan engineering and manufacturing capabilities among an elite group of international industry leaders, confirming the nation's ability to compete at the highest global standards.
CA Sri Lanka Honours Five Chartered Accountants for National Service 🏆
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) recently celebrated outstanding contributions to the nation, the financial sector, and the corporate world by conferring its top honours for 2025. • Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 was bestowed upon veteran CA Mr. Hemaka Amarasuriya. He is recognized for his four-decade career, notably as former Chairman of the Singer Group (1985-2015), and for significant contributions to public service and Sri Lanka Cricket. • Hall of Fame 2025 inductions recognized four distinguished professionals for shaping the accounting profession and business world. • Global & Public Service Impact: • Mr. M. V. Muhsin: Highest-ranking Sri Lankan to serve at the World Bank Group (former VP & CIO), recognized for pioneering digital transformation efforts (e-Lanka). • Mr. Don Kumaray Uttumdunna Corea: Founding Senior Partner of PwC Botswana and former President of the Botswana Institute of Accountants, noted for mentoring over 350 Sri Lankan accountants abroad. • National & Corporate Leadership: • Ms. Yoshita Shirani de Silva: Former Managing Partner of Kreston Sri Lanka, also recognized for her impactful social service through Soroptimist International. • Mr. Mohan Asoka Abeynaike: Former CA Sri Lanka President, instrumental in establishing the Faculty of Taxation, and held senior roles in Sampath Bank, Pan Asia Bank, and regulatory bodies (SEC). These awards underscore the pivotal role Chartered Accountants play in Sri Lanka's economic stability and corporate governance.
🏆 Port City Colombo Triumphs in fDi Intelligence Global Free Zones Awards 2025
• Port City Colombo was named the 'Best Knowledge Zone – Asia Pacific Region' in the prestigious Global Free Zones of the Year 2025 rankings by fDi Intelligence (Financial Times, UK). • This recognition solidifies its position as South Asia’s premier Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for knowledge-based industries and investment. • Key factors highlighted by the judging panel include: • Progressive regulatory framework that enhances the ease of doing business. • Assortment of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. • Establishment of the International Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC). • The SEZ is driving development in service-based sectors like IT/IT-es, professional services, and maritime & logistics. • Port City Colombo also received a 'Highly Commended' citation for Sustainable Zones, acknowledging its focus on environmentally responsible growth, green spaces, energy efficiency, and coastal resilience. • This achievement is viewed as a testament to the strong foundations for sustainable, knowledge-driven urban development being built in the region.
✈️ SriLankan Airlines Secures Top South Asian Airline Title (Hat-trick!)
• SriLankan Airlines (SLA) has won the "Leading International Airline in South Asia" award at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025, achieving this distinction for the third consecutive year (a hat-trick). • The award, under the Visitors’ Choice Awards category, is a testament to SLA's "unwavering commitment to excellence, strategic growth and connectivity," placing the airline at the pinnacle of regional aviation. • South Asia Network: SLA operates nearly 130 flights each week, connecting Colombo to key cities across five South Asian countries: India, Pakistan, the Maldives, Nepal, and Bangladesh. • Global Reach: The airline’s direct network spans 33 destinations in 21 countries (including the Middle East, Far East, Europe, and Australia). Its total direct and codeshare network covers 113 destinations in 57 countries globally. • SLA is recognised for maintaining world-class standards in inflight services while providing an authentically Sri Lankan experience and a comprehensive, convenient flight schedule.
Amari Colombo Wins Top Business Hotel Award 2025 🏆
• Amari Colombo has been honoured as “Sri Lanka’s Leading Business Hotel 2025” at the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA), Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony held in Hong Kong this October. • The accolade recognises the hotel’s exceptional standards of service, contemporary design, and its position as a benchmark for business hospitality in Sri Lanka. • General Manager Monty Ariyaratne stated the award is a testament to the team's unwavering commitment to delivering warm, personalised service. • This achievement reaffirms Amari Colombo's leading role in the Hospitality and Tourism landscape, blending contemporary sophistication with heartfelt service in Colombo’s business district. • The World Travel Awards are globally acknowledged as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence in the travel sector.
Hayleys Leisure Wins Global Skål Award for Accessible Tourism 🏆
• Hayleys Leisure, part of Hayleys PLC, secured the prestigious 2025 Skål Sustainable Tourism Award in the Accessible Tourism category. • This global recognition, presented at the 84th Skål World Congress in Cusco, Peru, spotlights Sri Lanka's commitment to inclusive and sustainable hospitality practices, having been selected from 106 entries globally. • The win reaffirms the Group's strong alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those addressing social inclusion and sustainable economic growth. • As a strategic benefit, the Group receives a one-year subscription to the Biosphere Sustainable platform and Guardian-level membership to Sustainable Travel International to enhance long-term sustainability planning. • The recognition sets a new benchmark for the national tourism industry, managed through brands including The Kingsbury and Amaya Resorts & Spas.
🇱🇰 Expolanka Leisure Secures Dual Win at World Travel Awards 2025
Expolanka Leisure made history by becoming one of the first Sri Lankan companies to secure top honours in both Inbound and Outbound Travel categories at the World Travel Awards 2025. • The group's subsidiaries secured key national titles, often regarded as the 'Oscars of the travel industry.' • Classic Travel was named Sri Lanka’s Travel Agency of the Year 2025 for the second consecutive year. • Classic Destinations was recognised as Sri Lanka’s Destination Management Company of the Year 2025. This dual recognition is seen as a proud moment for Sri Lanka, reflecting the commitment to elevating the client experience and showcasing the country's hospitality on the global tourism stage.
🇱🇰 Expolanka Leisure Secures Dual Win at World Travel Awards 2025
Expolanka Leisure made history by becoming one of the first Sri Lankan companies to secure top honours in both Inbound and Outbound Travel categories at the World Travel Awards 2025. • The group's subsidiaries secured key national titles, often regarded as the 'Oscars of the travel industry.' • Classic Travel was named Sri Lanka’s Travel Agency of the Year 2025 for the second consecutive year. • Classic Destinations was recognised as Sri Lanka’s Destination Management Company of the Year 2025. This dual recognition is seen as a proud moment for Sri Lanka, reflecting the commitment to elevating the client experience and showcasing the country's hospitality on the global tourism stage.
🏆 Abans Director Dr. Dubash Honoured with Global Visionary Leadership Award
• Dr. Saroshi Dubash, Group Director of Abans, received the prestigious ‘Visionary Leadership in Organizational Excellence’ Award at the 15th Top 50 Professional & Career Women Global Awards 2025 in Colombo. • As a second-generation leader, she has driven strategic growth and sustainability for over three decades, overseeing key sectors like Abans Electricals and Manufacturing, Abans Logistics, and Crown City Developers. • Key Milestones: - Led the introduction of Abans’ first e-commerce platform (www.buyabans.com) in 2007, pioneering digital transformation in Sri Lanka. - Drove the development of a state-of-the-art, sustainable logistics centre in Seeduwa, incorporating solar energy and eco-friendly waste management. • Beyond business, Dr. Dubash is a strong advocate for gender inclusion, having served as Chairperson of the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) and contributing to the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. • The Abans Group is a diversified conglomerate (50+ years old) with over 10,000 employees and 400 showrooms across sectors including Retail, Services, Logistics, Manufacturing, Real Estate, and Infrastructure Services.
🐔 Bairaha's 'THIRD EYE' App Secures Dual Wins at SLIM Digis 2.5
• Bairaha Farms PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s leading poultry producers, claimed two major awards at the recent SLIM Digis 2.5 for its innovative 'THIRD EYE' App. • Awards Secured: • Silver Award in the ‘CSR/Purpose-Driven Digital Marketing’ category. • Bronze Award in the ‘Best Use of Digital in Corporate Branding’ category. • App Purpose: The 'THIRD EYE' App is a digital solution specifically designed to address real needs and challenges faced by visually impaired individuals, reaffirming Bairaha’s community-centric position. • Key Features: The app offers object identification, text identification (allowing users to listen to written information), and a 'Bairaha recipes feature' providing detailed, step-by-step audio cooking instructions. • The recognition underscores Bairaha's efforts in combining innovative technology with sincere intent to uplift communities.