TikTok Q4 2025 Safety Report: 175M Videos Removed 📈
TikTok has released its Community Guidelines Enforcement Report for Q4 2025 (Oct–Dec), highlighting a massive scale of automated moderation to maintain platform integrity. • Global Enforcement Figures Total Videos Removed: 175.3 Million (approx. 0.5% of total uploads). Automated Detection: 152.6 Million videos identified via AI. Proactive Removal Rate: 99.1% of violating content caught before being reported. Speed: 93.4% of flagged content removed within 24 hours. • Account & Engagement Security Fake Accounts: 147.7 Million accounts removed to protect platform integrity. Youth Safety: 23.9 Million accounts banned for being under the age of 13. Engagement: Increase in removal of fake likes and followers to combat external threats. • Content Breakdown by Category Sensitive/Mature Themes: 21.2% Safety & Civility: 9.1% Edited Media & AI-Generated Content: 1.8% Misinformation: 1.6% (critical for ICT/BPM and digital literacy contexts). Privacy & Security: 1.2% • Strategic Shift in Moderation The platform reported a significant decrease in comment removals, shifting toward a strategy of demoting offensive content rather than direct deletion. While not specific to Sri Lankan domestic data, these global trends directly impact the digital economy and social media advertising landscape for local brands and content creators.
Munchee Sponsoring Free Rail Travel for 25,000 Passengers 📈
Sri Lanka’s leading biscuit brand, Munchee (CBL Group), has launched a major corporate social responsibility campaign to support domestic travelers during the 2026 Sinhala and Tamil New Year (Avurudu) season. • Overall Impact: The initiative provides fully sponsored train tickets for nearly 25,000 passengers traveling from the Colombo Fort Railway Station to their hometowns. • Scale of Support: On April 12th, the brand covered the ticket costs for all 85 train departures scheduled from Fort, alleviating financial pressure on commuters amid challenging global economic conditions. • Sector Focus: As a dominant player in the FMCG sector, Munchee is leveraging its market position to strengthen consumer loyalty and brand equity through high-impact community engagement. • Key Highlights: A dedicated "Munchee Special Avurudu Journey" was organized for the Fort-Batticaloa route, featuring festive refreshments, games, and gifts for passengers. • Strategic Intent: The move aligns with the brand’s identity as a staple in the local food industry, specifically targeting the high-consumption Avurudu period to maintain its status as the nation's preferred biscuit manufacturer.
📈 FTZMA Donates Rs. 5 Million to Cyclone Relief
The Free Trade Zone Manufacturers Association (FTZMA) has contributed Rs. 5 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. This initiative supports relief efforts for those affected by the recent cyclone Ditwah. • Key Contribution Details Total Donation: Rs. 5 million. Recipient: The ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, established for disaster recovery. Presentation: The donation was handed over to the Secretary to the President at the Presidential Secretariat. • Economic Significance The apparel & textiles and manufacturing sectors, represented by the FTZMA, remain critical pillars of the national economy. This contribution highlights the industry's role in corporate social responsibility (CSR) during national crises, beyond its primary function in export earnings and employment. • Official Representation The delegation was led by FTZMA Chairman Dhammika Fernando, accompanied by key committee members, emphasizing the unified support of the Free Trade Zone manufacturing community toward national recovery efforts.
City of Dreams & JKF Select Local Talent for West End Production 🎭
The search for Sri Lankan performers for the international musical La Bamba – Song of Veracruz has concluded, marking a milestone in the country’s creative economy and tourism positioning. • Strategic Partnership: The production is presented by City of Dreams Sri Lanka and the John Keells Foundation (JKF), aiming to foster cultural engagement and social cohesion through the arts. • Local Talent Integration: A dynamic group of local children and adults was selected to perform alongside a professional cast from London’s West End. This marks the first time a Western production has been licensed in Sri Lanka for a multicultural fusion of this scale. • Economic Context: Initiatives like these support the leisure and entertainment sector, enhancing Sri Lanka’s appeal as a global cultural destination. The project is backed by major entities including Nations Trust Bank and John Keells Properties. • Event Details: Rehearsals have commenced for the local cast, with international performers arriving in Colombo soon. The limited-run production will be held from 24th to 28th April at The Forum, City of Dreams Sri Lanka. • Key Figures: Auditions were led by local directors Jerome De Silva and Soundarie David, alongside West End Director Paul Morrissey. Tickets are currently available via Cinnamon Box Office, with early-bird discounts for selected cardholders.
📈 Japan & FAO Invest US$ 1.33 Mn to Revitalize Sri Lanka's Minor Tank Systems
The Ministry of Agriculture, with financial backing from Japan and technical support from the FAO, has launched a US$ 1.33 million initiative to enhance climate resilience in the dry zone. • Project Scope & Timeline: A 12-month project (March 2026 – February 2027) targeting the rehabilitation of traditional tank cascade systems in the Trincomalee and Vavuniya districts. • Direct Impact: Benefits approximately 400 smallholder farmers directly and 2,000 household members indirectly by improving paddy cultivation and water productivity. • Key Interventions: Infrastructure: Desilting, invasive weed removal, and rehabilitation of sluice gates, canals, and embankments. Technology: Introduction of sensor-based water monitoring and real-time climate data tools. Sustainability: Scaling Climate-Smart Good Agricultural Practices (CSGAP), including Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) methods. • Economic Context: Minor tank systems, comprising over 10,000 reservoirs, are the backbone of rural agriculture. Previous trials show that AWD and sensor-based irrigation can reduce water usage by over 35% while simultaneously improving crop yields. • Strategic Goal: The initiative aims to address decades of underinvestment and climate vulnerability, creating a scalable model for water management and food security across Sri Lanka’s dry and intermediate zones.
Hayleys Solar Completes 800kW Renewable Project for LSEG Sri Lanka 📈
• Project Scope: Hayleys Solar successfully installed an 800kW rooftop solar system for the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) in Malabe, spanning six buildings with 1,412 high-efficiency panels. • Energy Impact: The system is projected to generate 1,250 MWh of clean energy annually, meeting nearly 80% of LSEG’s daytime electricity requirements. • Environmental Contribution: The project is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by ~850 tonnes per year, a critical move for ICT/BPM and financial services firms looking to align with global ESG standards. • Execution: Completed in a two-month timeframe, the project involved complex underground cabling and was delivered with a zero-accident record. • Economic Context: This partnership highlights a growing trend of renewable energy adoption among major corporate players, enhancing Sri Lanka’s position as a sustainable destination for global financial and technology operations.
📈 World Health Day 2026: Sri Lanka’s Evolving Health & Economic Outlook
On World Health Day, new data emphasizes that health is an economic imperative for Sri Lanka, shifting focus toward preventive care and digital innovation to manage emerging demographic and social risks. • Maternal & Newborn Health Maternal health remains a high priority as fertility rates decline, making every pregnancy economically significant. In Sri Lanka, nearly 13.9% of mothers now develop diabetes during pregnancy, driven by rising obesity and lifestyle factors. • Demographic & Sector Shifts NCDs & Aging: Rapidly aging populations are increasing the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular issues and cancer. Women’s Health Gap: Globally, only 7% of healthcare research is dedicated to women-specific conditions, a critical gap for the healthcare sector. GBV Evolution: The rise of Technology Facilitated Gender Based Violence (TFGBV) requires new ICT and mental health integrated responses. • Economic Impact of Prevention The transition from hospital-based care to preventive care is cited as a vital strategy to lower long-term public healthcare costs. UNFPA is currently digitizing the frontline workforce, including equipping midwives with digital tools at centers like the Provincial Health Training Centre in Batticaloa. • Key Takeaway Health outcomes are increasingly tied to climate change and digital safety. Data-driven resource allocation (e.g., using GIS mapping) is essential to ensure resilient health systems and national productivity.
Supreme Court Rules on Meethotamulla Fundamental Rights Case ⚖️
The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has delivered a landmark judgment on March 31, 2026, regarding the 2017 Meethotamulla garbage dump disaster. The court ruled that the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) violated the fundamental rights of residents by continuing to dump waste despite clear risks. • Legal Outcome & Accountability: The court officially acknowledged the violation of residents' rights. The disaster, which occurred on April 14, 2017, resulted in 32 deaths and the destruction of approximately 300 homes. • Historical Context & Data: The dump was a site of extreme environmental injustice. While the local Kolonnawa area produced only 15 tons of waste daily, the CMC transported approximately 1,200 tons of garbage to the site every day. • Community Impact: Environmental Injustice: Residents suffered from structural damage to homes, contaminated floodwaters, and severe health issues. Corruption Allegations: The community reported that the dump served as a source of illicit income for a network of politicians and private contractors through machinery hire commissions. Suppression of Dissent: Early social movements (starting in 2012) faced violent crackdowns, including a documented attack on protesters in December 2015. • Current Status: The site has since been transformed into a green space used for religious festivals. This judgment serves as a formal recognition of the grievances of a community that long campaigned against the dumping of Colombo's waste in their backyard.
## 📉 Summary: Norochcholai’s Environmental and Economic Toll
The Lakvijaya (Norochcholai) Power Plant is currently operating as a major economic drain and environmental hazard due to chronic failures in its Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) units. While the plant generates one-third of Sri Lanka’s electricity, it does so at a massive "silent" cost to the treasury and public health. • Economic Impact & Waste Annual social and environmental damage is estimated at US$ 244 Mn (Rs 36.6 Bn). Sri Lanka spends approx. US$ 197 Mn (2024) importing fertiliser, yet the plant's emissions could be converted into 80,000–95,000 tons of ammonium sulphate annually. Retrofitting with ammonia-based FGD technology (estimated at US$ 50-90 Mn) could pay for itself in under 5 years through fertiliser production and health savings. • Environmental & Health Concerns Each unit releases 37,000 kg of sulphur oxides daily when scrubbers fail; total annual emissions reach 25,000–30,000 tons. Acid rain risks damage to tea (high-value export), coconut, and paddy crops, alongside 2,500-year-old cultural monuments downwind. Puttalam district already shows one of the highest chronic respiratory disease burdens in the country. • Operational Failures (Provisional Data) Compliance reports are deemed "unreliable" by independent observers. Approx. 400 tons of fly ash are openly dumped daily instead of being sold for industrial use. Current limestone-based scrubbers are frequently non-functional due to maintenance neglect and technical faults. _Action Required:_ Authorities must conduct an independent technical audit and assess the feasibility of ammonia-based FGD to transition from "smoke to fertiliser."
🌊 Cargills Bank Launches Sri Lanka’s First Ocean Plastic Debit Card
Cargills Bank has introduced the country’s first debit card manufactured from recycled ocean-bound plastic, marking a significant shift toward sustainable practices in the banking and financial services sector. • Product Innovation: The cards are produced using recycled plastic sourced from the Indian Ocean region (including the Maldives) and the Dominican Republic. This initiative integrates circular economy principles into retail banking. • Strategic Partnerships: The project was realized through a collaboration between Cargills Bank, Lake House Printers and Publishers PLC (technical production), and Mastercard (global payment technology). • Operational Standards: Despite the eco-friendly material, the bank ensures the cards meet international standards for durability, security, and global acceptance across existing point-of-sale infrastructures. • Sustainability Goals: The launch aligns with the bank’s Corporate Sustainability Goals (CSG) to reduce the environmental footprint of traditional operations and address marine pollution affecting coastal ecosystems. This move reflects a growing trend in the ICT/BPM and finance industries to align innovative service delivery with ethical environmental advocacy. 📈
🌊 Cargills Bank Launches Sri Lanka’s First Ocean Plastic Debit Card
Cargills Bank has introduced the country’s first debit card manufactured from recycled ocean-bound plastic, marking a significant shift toward sustainable practices in the banking and financial services sector. • Product Innovation: The cards are produced using recycled plastic sourced from the Indian Ocean region (including the Maldives) and the Dominican Republic. This initiative integrates circular economy principles into retail banking. • Strategic Partnerships: The project was realized through a collaboration between Cargills Bank, Lake House Printers and Publishers PLC (technical production), and Mastercard (global payment technology). • Operational Standards: Despite the eco-friendly material, the bank ensures the cards meet international standards for durability, security, and global acceptance across existing point-of-sale infrastructures. • Sustainability Goals: The launch aligns with the bank’s Corporate Sustainability Goals (CSG) to reduce the environmental footprint of traditional operations and address marine pollution affecting coastal ecosystems. This move reflects a growing trend in the ICT/BPM and finance industries to align innovative service delivery with ethical environmental advocacy. 📈
📉 Sri Lanka Launches First Country Gender Equality Profile to Address Sharp Index Decline
UN Women Regional Director Christine Arab officially launched the Sri Lanka Country Gender Equality Profile (CGEP), emphasizing that closing gender gaps is essential for the nation’s inclusive recovery and economic resilience. • Global Standing: The report highlights a significant regression in gender equality markers. Sri Lanka fell from 16th place in the Global Gender Gap Index in 2010 to 130th by 2025—a drop of over 100 places in 15 years. • Economic & Labour Impact: Key focus areas include increasing women’s labour force participation and access to economic opportunities. The CGEP notes that investing in women is a primary driver for sustainable development and GDP growth. • Structural Barriers: While judicial reforms are noted, discriminatory social norms and layered inequalities continue to hinder rights. The profile covers safety and security, poverty, and the gendered impacts of climate change. • Policy Recommendations: The visit prioritized strengthening the National Commission on Women (NCW), ensuring it remains independent and well-resourced to drive gender-responsive governance. • Collaborations: Discussions with the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs and diplomats from Australia, Canada, and Japan focused on policy reform, ending violence, and enhancing women's leadership roles.
📈 Colombo Climate Workshop: Strengthening Regional Transparency & Agrifood Systems
A high-level regional workshop concluded in Colombo, bringing together representatives from Asia-Pacific and Central Asia to align on climate transparency and agrifood systems ahead of COP31. • Core Objective: Strengthening the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) and preparing Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs) to support evidence-based decision-making and climate finance access. • Sector Focus: Agrifood systems were identified as the central pillar for Sri Lanka’s climate action, balancing food security with low-emission targets. The agriculture sector is being prioritized for its role in livelihoods and rural development. • Institutional Support: The event was hosted by the Ministry of Environment and the FAO, with backing from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and Germany’s BMZ. Sri Lanka is currently enhancing its national transparency via the CBIT (Capacity-Building Initiative for Transparency) project. • Key Innovations: A new FAO initiative was introduced to monitor methane in rice systems using remote sensing, aimed at improving greenhouse gas reporting accuracy. • Strategic Outlook: Participants emphasized that transparency is the foundation for international trust and "investment planning." Roadmaps are being developed to link climate reporting directly to national investment priorities and inclusive governance.
First Capital Treasuries Joins Global Carbon Accounting Partnership 📈
• First Capital Treasuries PLC has officially joined the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), a global collaboration of over 700 financial institutions dedicated to harmonizing greenhouse gas (GHG) emission disclosures. • The move enables the company to measure and disclose the carbon footprint of its financed activities using globally recognized standards, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable finance and transparency. • Key objectives of the partnership include: • Enhancing measurement of GHG emissions within investment portfolios. • Strengthening climate-related risk management. • Aligning financing strategies with Sri Lanka’s transition toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy. • CEO Sachith Perera noted that this initiative, as part of First Capital Holdings PLC, focuses on responsible investing and long-term value creation within the local financial services sector.
📈 WindForce PLC Proposes Rs. 4 Bn Green Bond Issue
Renewable energy leader WindForce PLC has announced plans to raise Rs. 4 billion through a strategic Green Bond issuance to strengthen its financial position and support sustainable growth. • Issue Details: The Board proposes issuing 40 million listed, rated, senior, unsecured, redeemable Green Bonds at a par value of Rs. 100 each. • Regulatory Status: The issuance is subject to necessary regulatory approvals; specific details regarding tenure and interest rates are to be disclosed at a later date. • Financial Position: As of December 2025, the company’s balance sheet stood at Rs. 43.3 billion, featuring retained earnings of Rs. 6.1 billion. • Debt Profile: The move follows a reported debt structure of Rs. 8.5 billion in long-term borrowings and Rs. 2.52 billion in short-term obligations. • Market Reaction: Shares of WindForce closed at Rs. 44.80 (down Rs. 0.20) following the announcement. This initiative highlights the increasing use of green financing instruments in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector to manage capital structures and support long-term decarbonization goals.
📉 Urgent Environmental Oversight at Norochcholai Power Plant
The Sectoral Oversight Committee on Environment has issued a directive for an immediate, sustainable management plan for ash disposal at the Norochcholai Lakvijaya Power Plant following a rise in waste output. • Waste Management Issues: Ash volumes have increased significantly, attributed to the lower quality of imported coal. The Committee has tasked the Puttalam District Secretary with leading a formal disposal strategy to mitigate environmental risks. • Economic Reuse & Welfare: A proposal was made to repurpose the ash for industrial production. Revenue generated from these activities is slated for welfare programs targeting communities located near the facility. • Regulatory Compliance: The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) must submit a comprehensive report on potential air and water pollution. The North Western Provincial Environmental Authority is required to respond to a compliance questionnaire within two weeks. • Operational Status: Despite the surge in ash volume, officials stated that existing filtration systems remain adequate for capturing emissions. The move signals a tightening of environmental licensing and compliance for Sri Lanka's primary coal-based energy infrastructure.
WiLAT SL & EFL Global Partner to Boost IGNITE Mentoring Program 📈
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Sri Lanka (CILT SL) has signed an MoU with EFL Global to formalize industry exposure for the IGNITE Mentoring Program, a flagship initiative of Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) Sri Lanka. • Strategic Partnership: The collaboration integrates structured mentorship with practical industry placement, aiming to develop future-ready leaders for the logistics and transport sector. • Internship Opportunities: Top-performing mentees will enter EFL Global’s "Pathway to Logistics Program," a six-month internship conducted twice annually. This provides hands-on experience in global supply chain operations and core functional roles. • Impact & Scale: Over its 11-year history, IGNITE has mentored 250+ young professionals and undergraduates. This MoU marks the program’s first formal expansion into structured corporate placements, strengthening the national talent pipeline. • Career Pathways: Selected participants will engage in live projects and cross-functional teams, with potential transitions into permanent roles upon successful completion. This initiative underscores a commitment to enhancing professional capability and gender-inclusive growth within Sri Lanka's evolving logistics landscape. _Source: CILT SL / EFL Global (Provisional Data)_
Sri Lanka’s Gender Equity: Benchmarking Workplace Rights 📈
• Overall Participation: Female labor force participation in Sri Lanka stands at 34%, trailing regional peers like Bangladesh (38%) and Vietnam (over 70%). A majority of women remain in the informal sector or unpaid caregiving without social protections. • Corporate Leadership: Despite a history of female political leadership, women hold only 13.4% of board seats in listed companies and 10% of Parliamentary seats. In contrast, Malaysia and Indonesia have accelerated representation through formal gender quotas and diversity mandates. • Legal & Protection Gaps: • Harassment: While legal provisions exist, implementation is weak compared to India’s mandatory internal complaints committees for workplaces with 10+ employees. • Social Safety: Sri Lanka lags behind India and Bangladesh in providing welfare boards, pensions, and health insurance for women in the informal economy. • Strategic Recommendations: To align with regional best practices, the report suggests introducing affirmative action, extending legal protections to informal workers, and institutionalizing gender-disaggregated data tracking to drive inclusive economic growth.
Sri Lanka Faces "Grey Tsunami" Retirement Crisis 📉
Ceylinco Life has issued an urgent alert regarding Sri Lanka’s rapidly aging population and a significant "retirement readiness gap" as the country nears a major demographic shift. • Demographic Shift: By 2042 (just 16 years away), 1 in 4 Sri Lankans will be over the age of 60. With average life expectancy at 77-78 years, retirees must fund approximately 15-18 years of post-work life. • Financial Shortfall: The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) remains the primary savings vehicle for the private sector. In 2024, the EPF paid out Rs. 230 Bn in total benefits. However, average balances remain modest; when spread over 15+ years, settlements often translate to only a few thousand rupees per month. • At-Risk Groups: Informal Sector: Self-employed and gig workers often have no structured retirement savings. Women: Face wider gaps due to career breaks for caregiving and longer life expectancy. Sandwich Generation: Those in their 40s balancing children’s education and aging parents, often neglecting their own pensions. Professional Class: High lifestyle costs and deferred planning create "insidious" risks for high-earners. • The Response: Ceylinco Life is launching "Retirement Ready" in 2026, a national awareness campaign to address low financial literacy and the erosion of traditional family safety nets due to urbanization and migration.
MAS Holdings Expands Sustainability Roadmap with New bluesign® Partnerships 📈
Sri Lanka’s largest apparel manufacturer, MAS Holdings, has announced a significant advancement in its "Plan for Change 2030" sustainability strategy. • Key Milestone: Two major subsidiaries—Texo (Pvt) Ltd (cotton fabric processing) and Noyon Lanka (knitted lace)—have officially become bluesign® System Partners. • Strategic Impact: With these additions, 75% of MAS’s wet processing facilities now align with the highest global standards for responsible chemical management. • Operational Standards: Adoption of Input Stream Management to ensure only approved chemical products are used. Utilization of digital platforms (CUBE, FINDER, and GUIDE) for enhanced traceability and performance measurement. Rigorous independent assessments across knitting, dyeing, finishing, and laminating processes. • Economic Context: This move strengthens the local supply chain for the apparel & textiles sector, reinforcing Sri Lanka's position as a hub for responsible and future-ready manufacturing for global brand partners. This follows the 2023 milestone where MAS Fabrics – Intimo became Asia’s first seamless textile mill to achieve this status, signaling a scaled commitment to reducing environmental impact across the textile supply chain.
ComBank Renews Historic De Soysa Maternity Ward for International Women’s Day 📈
• Project Overview Commercial Bank of Ceylon has officially commenced the renovation of Ward No. 03 at the De Soysa Hospital for Women. The initiative, timed with International Women’s Month, aims to enhance maternal healthcare infrastructure and patient safety at Sri Lanka's oldest maternity hospital. • Hospital Impact & Stats Founded in 1879, De Soysa Hospital is a cornerstone of the healthcare sector, recording 25,000 admissions and 6,000–8,000 deliveries annually. Ward No. 03 specifically handles: 2,500 – 3,000 deliveries per year. 4,000 – 5,000 patient admissions per year. • CSR & Sector Context The project is managed by the Commercial Bank Social Responsibility Trust, which has supported over 100 government hospitals. This focus on infrastructure development complements the bank's broader ESG goals, including its status as Sri Lanka’s first 100% carbon-neutral bank. • Institutional Profile Commercial Bank remains the largest private sector lender in Sri Lanka. First Sri Lankan bank to exceed a market capitalization of US$ 1 Bn. Operates 272 branches locally with a significant footprint in Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, and the UAE. _Note: Based on official bank announcement as of March 24, 2026._
⚡ UK-Sri Lanka Partnership: Strategic Transition to Electric Bus Fleet
The UK’s Green Cities Infrastructure and Energy Program, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and UNDP, has initiated a technical framework to transition Sri Lanka’s public transport to electric buses, moving beyond climate goals toward national economic resilience. • Strategic Rationale: The shift aims to reduce heavy dependency on imported petroleum, mitigating exposure to global supply disruptions and recurring domestic fuel rationing (QR-based systems). • Key Focus Areas: Infrastructure & Energy: Assessing grid reliability, distribution capacity, and tariff structures to ensure the power sector can support large-scale fleet charging. Regulatory Reform: Developing a practical Action Plan for governance structures and institutional mandates to allow effective scaling. Inclusive Transport: Addressing public transport service quality, specifically focusing on safety for women, accessibility for the disabled, and affordability. • Economic Impact: Viewed as a strategic investment in stability, the program links transport and energy planning to foster long-term fiscal resilience by reducing foreign exchange outflows for fuel. • Implementation Status: Based on recent workshop outcomes, the transition is moving from ambition to a formal Action Plan grounded in local stakeholder engagement. _Source: British High Commission / Provisional Program Data_
Headline: Moving from Intent to Infrastructure: Unlocking Women’s Economic Potential 📈
A recent policy analysis emphasizes that increasing female labor force participation is an economic necessity for Sri Lanka’s productivity and long-term growth. While awareness has grown, structural reforms remain critical to move beyond symbolic gestures. • Core Economic Impact The transition of women into senior leadership is no longer a supply issue but a system design challenge. Successful national platforms have already proven that women can account for a majority of board representation when institutional action is taken. • Key Structural Barriers Care Infrastructure: The lack of affordable, high-quality childcare and elder care is a primary constraint. Care must be treated as "economic infrastructure" to ensure workforce continuity. Transition Points: Biases regarding compensation and "perceived availability" often surface as women reach marriageable age or take on caregiving roles. Policy Gap: While paternity leave policies exist, low uptake due to fear of career repercussions highlights a disconnect between policy availability and usability. • Strategic Recommendations Labor Law Reform: Regularizing part-time work and extending benefits like gratuity are essential for an inclusive workforce. Safe Employment: Prioritizing dignified local jobs for women is key to reducing unsafe migration and protecting livelihoods in the ICT/BPM and other high-growth sectors. Engagement: Comprehensive organizational training and engaging men as partners are vital to sustaining behavioral change. _Note: Analysis based on current policy perspectives and provisional labor market observations._ ---
## SLID-KPMG: Audit Committees Move Beyond ESG Compliance 📈
The 32nd SLID-KPMG Audit Committee Forum highlighted a shift in corporate governance, urging audit committees to treat sustainability reporting with the same rigor as financial data under new SLFRS S1 & S2 standards. • Strategic Oversight The board's role is evolving from mere disclosure to embedding ESG into core strategy. Diversified conglomerates like Aitken Spence PLC are now linking sustainability risks and opportunities directly to investment and divestment decisions, such as transitions from thermal power to waste-to-energy. • Data Governance & Accountability For large-scale operations like the apparel & textiles giant MAS Holdings, credible ESG reporting now requires enterprise-wide data architecture. Key focuses include: • Standardizing definitions and automating validation at source. • Moving from periodic validation to continuous controls monitoring. • Linking ESG performance metrics directly to individual KPIs to ensure accountability. • Implementation & Sustainable Finance Sector Resilience: Companies like Lion Brewery PLC are investing in wastewater treatment and flood protection to mitigate climate-related operational risks. Access to Capital: Financial institutions like DFCC PLC are pioneering green and blue bonds. However, concerns remain regarding the ability of SMEs to meet the stringent compliance demands of EU and other advanced markets to access preferential sustainable capital. • Key Takeaway Compliance with SLFRS S1/S2 must begin at the strategy stage, not the reporting stage. Audit-ready data is now central to safeguarding reputation and long-term value in the Sri Lankan economy.
📈 She Radiates 2026: Female Leaders Push for Economic Inclusion
The inaugural "She Radiates 2026" forum, organized by WeOptimize, highlighted the critical need for increased female participation in Sri Lanka’s formal economy and corporate leadership. • Workforce Statistics (Provisional): Current female labor force participation: ~30%. Female representation on Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) listed boards: 10%. • Sector Focus & Leadership Insights: Apparel & Textiles: Rajitha Jayasuriya (Chairperson, SLAEA) emphasized purpose-driven leadership and collective success as vital for the industry’s growth. Hospitality & Tourism: Nayantara Fonseka (CEO, NyneHotels) and Sheanna Gardiner (Director, Galle Face Hotel) advocated for resilience and emotional intelligence in navigating sector challenges. Legal & Corporate Governance: Panelists urged women to build deep expertise to dismantle masculine norms in courtrooms and structural barriers in boardrooms. SMEs & Personal Branding: Sessions by GFlock, Radi, and Ramani Fernando linked personal branding and confidence to professional credibility and individual success. • Strategic Goals: The event aims to build a mentorship-driven network to help women achieve their full potential, emphasizing that women can act as "anchors" to support the broader economy through workforce diversification and leadership.
INSEE Ecocycle Drives Sri Lanka’s Circular Economy Transition 📈
INSEE Ecocycle has launched a comprehensive series of high-level engagements in March 2026, aimed at establishing Sri Lanka as a regional leader in sustainable manufacturing and resource efficiency. • Circularity Summit 2026: Held on March 19 at Cinnamon Life, convening 200+ stakeholders from industry and academia. Key focus areas included waste reduction strategies, material recovery, and global best practices in energy efficiency. • Future 360 CEO Forum: A premier gathering of 300+ senior corporate leaders and policymakers. The forum focused on integrating sustainability into industrial operations to maintain global competitiveness while exploring leadership visions for circular economy adoption. • Academic & Youth Integration: • The ICRES online conference (March 14) shared global research on regulatory frameworks and technological innovation. • The Circularity Challenge (Season 2) engaged students from Colombo, Peradeniya, and Sri Jayewardenepura universities, providing mentorship for commercial-scale sustainable business models. • Strategic Impact: These initiatives connect research, policy, and youth innovation to reduce industrial emissions and transition the national economy toward cleaner production systems. This framework supports Sri Lanka’s long-term goal of becoming an investment-ready, future-oriented manufacturing hub.
📈 CDB Empowers Women Entrepreneurs via CAN Market Partnership
Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) has reinforced its commitment to the SME sector by partnering with The Creative Isle Ltd. for the International Women’s Day edition of the CAN Market. The collaboration aligns with the 2026 IWD theme ‘Give to Gain’ and focuses on the Wings Ecosystem to drive financial inclusion. • Strategic Objectives: The partnership aims to provide greater visibility, financial accessibility, and digital enablement for women-led businesses and eco-conscious local brands. • Digital Integration: CDB facilitated seamless transactions using QR payments and provided exclusive benefits via the CDB SELF platform, promoting the adoption of fintech solutions among micro and small enterprises. • Event Highlights: Held at Arcade Independence Square, the initiative showcased a diverse collective of artisans and creative brands, connecting local entrepreneurs with conscious consumers to foster sustainable growth. • Economic Impact: By strengthening the Wings Ecosystem, CDB is focusing on inclusive growth and resource allocation for women-led enterprises, which are vital for community progress and employment diversification.
Headline: War-Driven Environmental Crises Threaten Sri Lankan Waters 📈
• Local Impact: Sri Lanka's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is under threat following the sinking of an Iranian vessel off the southern coast. The Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) is currently monitoring for oil spills and debris that have already begun washing ashore. • Regional Risks: Escalating Middle East conflicts involving oil refineries and industrial areas have triggered warnings of "black acid rain" and heavy metal contamination. A single major oil spill in the Strait of Hormuz is projected to cause irreparable damage to marine habitats, affecting regional biodiversity and food security. • Global Context: • Gaza: Over 500,000 tonnes of $CO_2$ generated in the first 120 days of conflict. • Sudan: Widespread deforestation and collapse of sanitation systems. • Iran: Aerial bombardments have compromised soil fertility and groundwater through toxic acidic particles. • Economic Vulnerability: As an island nation, Sri Lanka is disproportionately affected by marine pollution from non-party conflicts. Experts urge authorities to document damages to seek international reparations for environmental remediation and cleanup costs. _Note: Summary based on provisional reports and MEPA monitoring data._
Sofia Colombo Becomes Sri Lanka’s First GSTC-Certified Hotel 📈
• Sofia Colombo has achieved the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) accreditation, marking it as the first hotel in Sri Lanka to receive this international sustainability milestone. • The certification was conducted by Control Union, an entity accredited by GSTC since 2016, following rigorous audits against standards for environmental impact, social responsibility, and economic viability. • This achievement is a strategic move to align with future global demand, specifically targeting the EU market, which is expected to prioritize sustainable-certified hotels for business starting in 2027. • The move enhances the hotel’s long-term commercial potential and competitive edge within the tourism and hospitality sector, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s position as a responsible travel destination.
### Sustainability Reporting Seminar for Corporates 📈
Corporate Legal Consultants will host a specialized seminar and workshop on March 26, 2026, at The Kingsbury Hotel, focusing on the mandatory shift toward ESG and climate disclosures in Sri Lanka. • Regulatory Mandate: Effective 1 January 2026, all companies listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) Main Board must adopt Sustainability Reporting in compliance with SLFRS S1 and S2 standards. • Key Focus Areas: The session covers carbon accounting standards, climate-related financial implications, and the practical application of footprint assessments. • Financial Instruments: Discussions will include the potential of Green Bonds within the local capital market as a tool for sustainable financing. • Target Audience: Designed for Directors, Audit Committees, and ICT/BPM or manufacturing leads responsible for compliance and risk management. • Event Details: - Date/Time: 26 March 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Location: Victorian Hall, The Kingsbury Hotel. - Investment: Rs. 13,550 per person. This transition marks a significant shift in governance, elevating sustainability data to board-level accountability to align with global emerging ESG regulations. ---
ComBank Appointed Patron of UNGC Sri Lanka Working Groups 📈
• Overall Commitment: Commercial Bank of Ceylon has signed a two-year MoU to become the Patron of two key UN Global Compact (UNGC) Network Sri Lanka Working Groups: ‘Diversity & Inclusion’ and ‘Water & Ocean Stewardship’. This reinforces the bank’s status as a leader in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and responsible finance. • Strategic Focus Areas: • Environmental: Focuses on sustainable water management, ocean stewardship, and marine ecosystem restoration (e.g., mangroves and coral reefs). • Social: Aims to foster equitable workplaces, promote gender equality, and enhance economic participation for women entrepreneurs and SMEs. • National & Global Context: • First Bank in SL to join UNGC (2002). • Market Position: First Sri Lankan bank to exceed US$ 1 Bn market capitalization. • Sustainability: Recognised as Sri Lanka’s first 100% carbon-neutral bank. • Impact on Business: The partnership will provide clients with access to sustainability-linked knowledge, advisory services, and specialized green financing solutions, helping local businesses align with international standards to improve global competitiveness.
Britol & GP Certified Launch Recycled Plastic Packaging in FMCG Sector ♻️
• Antler Group (Britol) has partnered with GP Certified to integrate certified recycled plastics into large-scale production, marking a shift from 100% virgin plastic use. • The initiative replaces up to 40% of imported virgin plastics with locally sourced, ethically produced recycled materials in selected Britol products. • This move strengthens Sri Lanka’s circular economy by providing a credible local compliance pathway for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations. • The project reduces reliance on plastic imports, supports domestic recycling industries, and promotes job creation within the local supply chain. • Supported by the World Bank via the PLEASE project and SACEP, the collaboration aims to mainstream traceable, verified recycled content across the FMCG sector.
Sustainable Tourism Skills: Project VISA Concludes in Kandy 📈
The National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC) Sri Lanka, supported by VFS Global and ASSIST, has successfully completed "Project VISA" (Vocational Initiative for Sustainable Ambassadors in Tourism), aiming to bolster the nation’s tourism workforce. • Overall Impact: The program certificated 123 participants across four key hubs: Galle, Negombo, Riverstone, and Kandy. • Gender Inclusion: Achieved a significant 25% female representation among trainees, supporting diversity within the hospitality and travel sectors. • Core Training: Focused on sustainable and eco-tourism, cultural storytelling, climate resilience, and financial literacy to enhance employment readiness. • Economic Linkages: Beyond skill-building, the initiative connected graduates with industry operators to establish sustainable livelihoods and professional roles. • Strategic Context: The project aligns with national goals to preserve environmental heritage while empowering youth through specialized vocational training in a vital economic sector.
Aitken Spence Travels Secures Prestigious GSTC Certification 📈
Aitken Spence Travels (ASTL), Sri Lanka’s leading Destination Management Company, has achieved the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification, marking a significant milestone for the tourism sector. • Core Achievement: The GSTC certification is the global benchmark for sustainability, built on four pillars: sustainable management, socio-economic benefits, cultural preservation, and environmental responsibility. • Strategic Impact: This makes ASTL one of the few DMCs globally to hold both GSTC and Travelife certifications. The achievement aligns with the broader corporate strategy of Aitken Spence PLC, embedding verified sustainability standards into operational DNA rather than treated as a standalone initiative. • Economic Relevance: As global travelers prioritize environmental and social footprints, this certification strengthens Sri Lanka’s competitive edge in the leisure and travel industry. It ensures that tourism activities generate measurable socio-economic benefits for local communities while protecting national ecosystems. • Operational Rigor: The certification followed a rigorous process involving supply chain compliance, independent third-party on-site audits, and continuous environmental monitoring.
🌙 National Harmony: Special Iftar Ceremony at Presidential Secretariat
• Event Overview: A special Iftar ceremony was held last week at the Presidential Secretariat to mark the holy month of Ramadan, organized jointly by the Secretariat and its Welfare Association. • Key Highlights: Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, led the proceedings, emphasizing the Secretariat’s role as a prominent institution in the public sector. A lecture on the significance of Ramadan was delivered by M.F.A. Nufail Moulavi, followed by prayers led by A.N. Ubaidullah. The fast was broken at 6:23 p.m., followed by a formal dinner for participants. • Economic & Social Context: National Unity: The event underscored Sri Lanka’s identity as a multi-ethnic nation, with Dr. Kumanayake highlighting the importance of respecting diverse cultures to foster national harmony. Public Sector Engagement: Such events reflect the state's commitment to cultural inclusivity, which is vital for maintaining social stability—a cornerstone for consistent economic growth and a productive public sector workforce. 🤝
### Colombo’s Air Quality: The Maritime Impact 📈
A recent analysis highlights the growing threat of deteriorating air quality in Colombo, pointing to a significant but overlooked source: emissions from international shipping lanes. • Current Situation: Colombo's air quality index increasingly reaches unhealthy levels, particularly concerning concentrations of PM2.5 (fine particulate matter). While traffic and regional pollution from the Palk Strait are often blamed, the city's proximity to one of the world's busiest maritime corridors is a major contributor. • The Shipping Factor: Thousands of container ships, tankers, and bulk carriers on the East-West route burn heavy fuel oil, one of the dirtiest global transport fuels, just off Sri Lanka's coast. • Proposed Policy Action: To mitigate health risks and protect the maritime sector's reputation, experts suggest implementing a clean-fuel requirement. This would mandate ships to switch to low-sulphur marine fuel within 12 nautical miles of the coast or while at berth in the Port of Colombo and Hambantota. • Strategic Benefit: Adopting these international standards—already used in Europe and China—would reinforce Sri Lanka's standing as a responsible maritime hub while reducing long-term national health costs. _Source: Based on commentary by the former German Ambassador to Sri Lanka._
Tata Group Partners with Sri Lanka for "Rebuilding Sri Lanka" Initiative 📈
The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai has collaborated with the Tata Group to launch the ONE Tata Sri Lanka Cyclone Ditwah and Floods Response Programme, focusing on educational recovery following recent natural disasters. • Educational Support: The Tata Group has committed 27,000 learning kits to ensure children affected by the cyclone can resume their studies. • Priority Regions: The initiative targets the hardest-hit districts, specifically Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, and Kandy. • Strategic Focus: Beyond education, the programme prioritizes humanitarian needs in the health sector, aligning with Sri Lanka’s national recovery efforts and its high premium on human capital. • Bilateral Cooperation: The project serves as a significant example of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and reinforces the economic and solidarity ties between Sri Lanka and India. • Implementation: Executed in coordination with the Government of Sri Lanka, the initiative features contributions from Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd and Tata Sons, emphasizing long-term investment in the nation’s future workforce.
UN Global Compact SL Kicks Off 2026 Social Sustainability Agenda 📈
The UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka has launched its 2026 strategy, transitioning from corporate commitment to practical implementation across human rights, equity, and integrity. Delivered with Good Life X, the program aligns with the 2026–2030 global strategy to enhance long-term business performance. • Core Strategic Pillars: Equipping Companies: Moving beyond CSR to embed social sustainability into governance. Focus areas include equal pay, male allyship, disability inclusion, and mental health as productivity drivers. Human Rights & Ethics: Strengthening due diligence in supply chains, implementing living wages, and addressing emerging risks in AI and digital rights. Collective Action: Utilizing five thematic Working Groups—including Sustainable Supply Chain & SME and Climate Emergency—to drive cross-sector collaboration. • Business Impact: Risk Management: Enhancing resilience against global regulatory evolution and market scrutiny. Investor Confidence: Positioning responsible conduct as a competitive advantage for talent retention and investment. Governance: Integrating anti-corruption frameworks and business integrity into core decision-making. The 2026 agenda emphasizes that social sustainability is a structural determinant of economic growth, shifting the focus to measurable organizational change and science-based behavioral approaches within the Sri Lankan corporate sector.
Sri Lanka Pioneers Large-Scale Biodiversity Action via Kunming Fund 📈
Sri Lanka has become one of the first nations globally to secure endorsement from the Kunming Biodiversity Fund (KBF). The project, signed by the Ministry of Environment and the FAO, transitions the country from fragmented conservation efforts to a unified national biosecurity system. • Strategic Focus: The initiative targets Invasive Alien Species (IAS), which pose a critical threat to Sri Lanka’s ecosystems, agriculture, and rural livelihoods. It marks the first update to the national priority invasive species list since 2015. • Systemic Upgrades: Policy & Law: Strengthening legislation and institutional coordination. Monitoring: Establishing a national digital monitoring system and enhancing border controls for early detection. Restoration: Implementing community-based ecosystem restoration with post-eradication monitoring. • Economic Impact: The project introduces 'eradication-through-utilization' models. These are designed to generate inclusive livelihood opportunities for women and youth by turning invasive species management into an economic resource. • Global Context: This catalytic international financing aims for long-term transformation rather than short-term outcomes, aligning Sri Lanka’s national priorities with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
📈 TTE’s Kiruwanaganga Tea Factory Becomes SL’s First Green-Certified Plantation Facility
Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC (TTE), a member of Hayleys Plantations, has secured a Gold rating from the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka for its Kiruwanaganga Tea Factory, marking a milestone in Pure Ceylon Tea sustainability. • Investment & Modernization: The facility represents a Rs. 714.3 million investment. It utilizes a redesigned two-storey layout to reduce its physical footprint and material use without compromising production capacity. • Climate-Smart Technology: The factory integrates AI-enabled machinery and intelligent process controls. Energy needs are supported by a 220 kWp rooftop solar PV system, contributing to significant energy savings and record production volumes. • Resource Efficiency: • Water: Achieved zero use of potable water in factory operations through process optimization. • Carbon: Embodied carbon intensity recorded at 432 kg CO2e/sqm, meeting Asia-Pacific B-rating benchmarks for 2025. • Economic Impact: The modernization has driven auction-leading prices and the highest gross sales averages in the factory's history, strengthening the global competitiveness of the tea sector. This certification underscores the transition of the plantation sector toward future-ready, carbon-smart manufacturing to meet evolving global buyer demands. _Source: Provisional data as of March 2026_
### Commercial Bank Reinforces Ethics and Inclusion Framework 📈
Commercial Bank of Ceylon (ComBank) has detailed its latest strategic focus on governance, human capital, and diversity to drive long-term performance. Key highlights from the 2024-2026 reporting period include: • Ethical Compliance & Training Over 96% of employees completed formal training on ethical behavior and compliance in 2024. Implementation of a strict Conduct Risk Management framework and an Anti-Bribery policy aligned with the UN Global Compact’s 10th Principle. Conducted 19 specialized sessions on anti-corruption with 75% staff participation. • Gender Diversity & Inclusion Women now constitute over 30% of the total workforce. High retention achieved with a 100% return-to-work rate for female employees following maternity leave. Internal progression noted with 14 female employees promoted to senior management and 21 completing exclusive leadership development courses. • Governance & Accountability Strengthening of the Whistleblower Charter, providing anonymous channels (hotlines/direct email to Chief Internal Auditor) to report misconduct without retaliation. Expansion of recruitment drives into underserved rural regions to enhance cultural and ethnic representation within the banking sector. Integration of automated monitoring and periodic audits to mitigate risks related to insider trading and conflicts of interest. _Note: Statistics and outcomes based on bank performance and reported data for the 2024-2026 period._
Thema Collection’s Amba Yaalu Kandalama Wins Global Gender Equality Award at ITB Berlin 📈
Thema Collection’s Amba Yaalu Kandalama has been recognized as the "Gender Equality Champion of the Year 2026 – Accommodation" at the ITB Berlin international travel trade show, marking a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector. • Core Achievement: The award recognizes the property’s commitment to female leadership and workforce participation in a sector where women remain underrepresented despite making up over 50% of the national population. • Operational Model: • Established as a fully women-led hotel, demonstrating female-driven operational feasibility across managerial, technical, and service functions. • Currently employs nearly 100 women, supported by structured mentorship and career progression pathways. • Integrates rural women entrepreneurs into the supply chain, boosting local economic participation. • Sector Context: The initiative by Thema Collection (which operates 16 properties) aims to move beyond symbolic representation toward a commercially sustainable, inclusive business model within the tourism industry. • Sustainability & ESG: • The property utilizes renewable energy (rooftop solar), responsible water management, and low-impact architectural design. • Focuses on social inclusion and cultural preservation as part of its broader environmental and social governance framework. This international recognition underscores the viability of gender-responsive strategies in strengthening Sri Lanka's tourism & leisure value chain.
### World Bank to Finance $50 Mn Sri Lanka Digital Transformation 📈
The World Bank and GovTech Sri Lanka have launched a $50 million initiative to overhaul the national digital landscape. While aimed at efficiency, the project faces scrutiny regarding human rights and inclusivity. • Overall Figures & Targets Total Funding: US$ 50 Mn. User Goal: Target of 4 million users for digital government services by 2029. Infrastructure: Implementation of a National Data Exchange, 'Super App', and biometric Digital ID system. • Key Components & ICT Development Digital ID: Proposed biometric registration starting at birth/school entry to enable "paperless and cashless" transactions. Connectivity: Integrating banks and telecommunications via Digital ID APIs. Digital Literacy: Sub-components focused on local language content and digital adoption. • Critical Challenges & Context Digital Divide: 39% of households remain offline; only 51% of individuals actively use the internet (based on provisional data). Risk Rating: Classified as "low" risk by the World Bank, though critics cite concerns over state surveillance and a lack of trilingual documentation. Exclusion Risks: Significant gaps persist, including a 34% gender gap in internet use and limited access (7%) for persons with disabilities. • Sector Impact The project aims to modernize public administration and the startup ecosystem, though experts warn that without rights-based guardrails, it may deepen marginalization for the 49% currently outside the digital system. _Note: Summary based on executive briefing and World Bank Project Information Documents._
Darley Butler Launches "We Must Change" Sustainability Campaign 🌍
Darley Butler, the FMCG arm of E B Creasy & Co. PLC, has introduced an island-wide refill pouch initiative to significantly reduce plastic waste in the household and homecare sector. • Key Initiative: Launch of the "We Must Change" campaign on March 6, 2026, introducing refill pouches across four major brands: Teepol, Bio Clean, Softny, and Bubble All Out. • Environmental Impact: The transition from rigid plastic bottles to refill pouches is estimated to reduce plastic usage by up to 70% per product unit. • Market Reach: Refill options are now available across both modern trade (supermarkets) and general trade outlets island-wide to ensure accessibility for the mass market. • Strategic Goal: To shift consumer behavior toward a "refill instead of replace" model, embedding sustainability into everyday cleaning, laundry, and homecare routines rather than niche segments. • Economic Context: By leveraging some of Sri Lanka’s most trusted household brands, the company aims to scale plastic reduction quickly by maintaining affordability and convenience for local consumers. Based on corporate announcement data.
NCCSL & Pan Asia Bank to Celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 📈
The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL), in partnership with Pan Asia Bank, will host a high-level forum tomorrow, March 10, focused on women’s leadership and economic participation. • Event Theme: "She Leads the Future: Sustainable Growth with Purpose," aligning with the UN global mandate for rights and justice for all women. • Core Focus: Advancing economic empowerment, financial independence, and sustainable leadership within the Sri Lankan business landscape. • Key Sessions: - Financial Planning: Specialized segments on wealth management for women. - Leadership & Education: Strategies to bridge the gender gap in executive roles. - Wellness & Inclusivity: Sessions hosted by Mega Life Sciences and the UNFPA on gender inclusivity and health. • Strategic Importance: The event serves as a critical platform for entrepreneurs and policymakers to foster community-building and professional advancement for women, directly impacting employment and sustainable growth. • Partnerships: Supported by a broad coalition of private sector entities, including Wijaya Products, Eswaran Brothers, and Nawaloka Hospitals, reflecting a multi-sectoral commitment to gender-equitable economic development. _Status: Event scheduled for 9.00 a.m. at the National Chamber Auditorium, Colombo._
UN Secretary-General Outlines 8 Actions for Global Gender Equality 📈
The UN Secretary-General, marking International Women's Day 2026, identified gender inequality as the premier human rights challenge, noting that closing gender gaps can boost national income by as much as 20%. • Economic & Investment Impact Education: Every US$ 1 invested in girls' education yields nearly triple the gains. Health: Maternal health and family planning investments generate an 8x return. Growth: Policies for childcare and elder care are cited as fundamental for unlocking national economic growth. • Legal & Institutional Gaps Legal Rights: Globally, women hold only 64% of the legal rights enjoyed by men. Representation: Women comprise only 25% of the tech workforce, leading to "hardwired" bias in digital systems. Leadership: Parity in senior leadership and boardrooms is highlighted as a driver for more inclusive decision-making and stronger institutional results. • Sectoral & Social Priorities Peace & Security: Inclusion of women in negotiations (e.g., Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan) is categorized as a "shortcut" to stability. Climate Change: Advocates for gender-responsive climate policies, emphasizing that women face higher risks during food crises and displacement. Safety: Calls for "zero tolerance" for gender-based violence and the removal of barriers for girls in science and technology.
City of Dreams Sri Lanka: Empowering Women in South Asia’s First Integrated Resort 📈
City of Dreams Sri Lanka marks International Women’s Day by highlighting the critical role of female leadership and technical expertise within the nation’s first fully integrated resort. • Strategic Inclusion: Beyond traditional hospitality roles, women are integrated into high-responsibility sectors including surveillance, gaming operations, information security, and security management. • Economic Impact: The resort model fosters broader career pathways in the tourism & entertainment sectors, providing local talent with exposure to international best practices and global standards. • Operational Excellence: The organization emphasizes a performance-driven culture, moving beyond traditional stereotypes to focus on capability, analytical thinking, and regulatory compliance. • Support Frameworks: Key initiatives include equal opportunity hiring, structured mentorship, leadership training, and robust maternity support policies to ensure sustainable career growth. • National Context: As Sri Lanka positions itself as a competitive global destination, the resort's focus on a diverse, high-performance workforce is cited as essential for long-term growth in sustainable tourism.
### CSE and Global Partners Ring Opening Bell for Gender Equality 📈
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), in partnership with the IFC, UN Women, and the UN Global Compact, held a ceremonial bell-ringing to advocate for women’s economic empowerment and leadership within the Sri Lankan corporate sector. • Current Representation: Women’s representation on CSE-listed boards reached 13.7% in 2026, reflecting a modest YoY increase from 13.4% in 2025. • Economic Impact: Leaders emphasized that unlocking women’s potential is critical for inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and job creation. Balanced leadership is linked to improved risk management and sustainable value in the private sector. • Key Sectors & Leadership: High-profile representation included leadership from Hayleys Agriculture, Aitken Spence, and the Securities & Exchange Commission. • Global Alignment: The event is part of a global initiative involving 114 exchanges aimed at dismantling barriers to women’s career growth and fostering inclusive financial markets.
Youth-Led Circular Economy Forum Debuts in Jaffna 📈
A pioneering Circular Economy Forum is being held today (March 7) at the Arc Building in Jaffna, signaling a shift toward sustainable resource management and green technology in the Northern Province. • Event Objectives The forum aims to replace the traditional "Take-Make-Waste" linear model with a circular system where waste is repurposed as a resource. It serves as a platform to align environmental protection with economic prosperity for young entrepreneurs and undergraduates. • Key Highlights & Initiatives Organization: Spearheaded by Terra Force, a civilian movement founded in July 2025 to foster ecological balance. Sector Focus: Key themes include the sharing economy, biological regeneration, and sustainable production/services. Mentorship: Speakers from initiatives like Saho Creations, Dream Garden, and Save a Life will serve as "Founding Mentors" to help students transition "circular" ideas into viable businesses. • Economic Impact The initiative focuses on redesigning financial and resource flows to ensure long-term regional prosperity. By treating sustainability as a profitable business strategy, the forum seeks to build a registry of youth-led startups and eco-initiatives to modernize the Northern Province's industrial outlook. • Future Outlook Organizers intend to present innovative, youth-proven solutions to the Jaffna Municipal Council to support local governance through scientific environmental solutions. _Note: Information based on event launch data._
📈 Spa Ceylon Launches ‘Her Business Matters’ to Boost Women-Led SMEs
Spa Ceylon has unveiled ‘Her Business Matters,’ a nationwide initiative timed for International Women’s Day 2026 to provide growth support and brand amplification for local female entrepreneurs. • Overall Objective: The program transitions from symbolic celebration to practical economic empowerment, targeting female founders who manufacture or produce locally in Sri Lanka to drive SME growth and employment. • Support Framework: • Brand Amplification: Five selected businesses per week will receive exposure via Spa Ceylon’s marketing channels and influencer networks throughout March 2026. • Capacity Building: Participants will attend workshops in Colombo covering social media, compliance, brand positioning, and scaling. • Strategic Partnerships: Collaboration with Simple Books (Finance/Compliance) and RoarAdX (Digital Growth) to provide technical expertise. • Selection Criteria: Applications are open through March via social media. Screening focuses on scalability, product quality, and long-term growth potential. • Economic Context: The initiative builds on the 2025 ‘Act For WIN’ campaign, leveraging Spa Ceylon’s position as a global brand (140+ locations in 30+ countries) to integrate local women-led businesses into the broader retail and wellness ecosystem.
SLASSCOM Women in Tech 2026: Driving Diversity in the Digital Economy 📈
The ICT/BPM sector gears up for the fourth edition of the Women in Tech Conference, scheduled for March 26, 2026, at Shangri-La Colombo. Organized by the SLASSCOM Women Technopreneurs Forum, the event aligns with International Women’s Day to promote inclusive leadership. • Conference Overview: Transitioning into a full-day experience, the event builds on a consistent track record of over 300 participants per edition. • Core Focus: The 2026 theme centers on "future-ready leadership," leveraging AI and emerging technologies as catalysts for inclusion and workplace transformation. • Key Speakers: Featured keynote by Sindhu Gangadharan (MD of SAP Labs India & Nasscom Chairperson), alongside influential local policymakers and technopreneurs. • Economic Context: The initiative aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s digital economy by enhancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitments, which are vital for talent retention and global employer branding. • Strategic Goals: Unlocking innovation through diversity and equipping the workforce with insights into AI-driven transformation and progressive leadership. _Note: Based on official event announcement for March 2026._
Greenpeace Calls for ‘Polluter Pays’ Action Following Cyclone Ditwah 📈
A new report by Greenpeace South Asia highlights the staggering economic and human toll of Cyclone Ditwah, urging for global climate accountability and a national loss and damage framework. • Economic Impact & Damage The World Bank estimates total economic damage at approximately US$ 4.1 Bn. Over 114,000 homes were partially or destroyed; critical infrastructure including roads, railways, and utilities faced extensive disruption. Human cost: More than 600 deaths and 2.3 million people affected by flooding and landslides. • Sectoral Disruptions Agriculture & Fisheries: Rural livelihoods and food security are severely threatened as these key sectors face long-term recovery challenges. Agrarian Debt: Experts warn that disasters exacerbate existing debt burdens for rural communities, calling for grant-based climate financing. • Climate Science & Advocacy Human-driven climate change made Ditwah’s rainfall 28% to 160% more intense. Sri Lanka contributes less than 0.1% of global emissions but bears disproportionate costs, fueling calls for the "Polluter Pays" principle against major carbon emitters. • Policy Recommendations Establishment of an independent Loss and Damage Committee to address both economic and non-economic losses (e.g., cultural and psychological). Advocacy for climate-related debt relief and restructuring to prevent further national financial vulnerability.
UN Report Highlights Persistent Gender Gaps in Sri Lanka 📈
• Overall Legal & Social Landscape The UN identifies 67 discriminatory provisions across 28 laws affecting family, employment, and citizenship. High rates of gender-based violence persist, with 1 in 4 women experiencing intimate partner violence and 90% reporting harassment on public transport. • Economic Participation & Finance The female labour force participation rate stands at 31.6%, significantly trailing the male rate of ~70%. Unpaid care work remains a primary barrier. Additionally, women-led businesses face a massive financing gap estimated at US$ 17 Bn. • Leadership & Representation Despite comprising over 50% of the population, women hold less than 10% of parliamentary seats (22 out of 225). Representation in the Cabinet of Ministers is minimal at 8.7% (2 out of 23 positions). • Digital & Climate Vulnerabilities While 62% of women are digitally literate, only 34.6% possess computer literacy. Women also account for 58% of cybercrime complaints. In agriculture and fisheries, climate-related disasters disproportionately impact women through increased unpaid labor and disrupted maternal health access. • Summary Note Based on UN factsheet data as of March 2026. Closing these gaps requires urgent legal reforms and targeted economic empowerment to realize full gender equality.
IESL Marks World Engineering Day 2026: Focus on Smart Engineering 📈
The Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka (IESL) joined global celebrations for World Engineering Day on March 4, 2026, centering on the theme: "Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future through Innovation and Digitalisation." • Key Focus Areas: The initiative emphasizes integrating digitalisation—including AI, Big Data, and Building Information Modelling (BIM)—to enhance national infrastructure planning and operational efficiency. • Strategic Objectives: • Disaster Resilience: Leveraging smart sensors and monitoring for early warning systems against floods and landslides. • Energy & Utilities: Utilizing data-driven management to optimize renewable energy integration and reduce transmission losses. • Urban Development: Applying intelligent tools to manage traffic congestion, waste, and water supply in growing cities. • Economic Impact: The IESL highlights that adopting smart engineering is critical for Sri Lanka’s economic stability, aiming to reduce project cost overruns and delays through digital modeling and innovative local solutions. • Professional Sector: As the apex body for disciplines including civil, electrical, mechanical, and ICT/BPM engineering, IESL is hosting high-level forums to align engineering expertise with national policy and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
LOLC Divi Saviya Honored for Rapid Restoration of 200 Schools Post-Cyclone 📈
The Ministry of Education has officially recognized LOLC Holdings PLC for its "Obai Mamai Ape Ratai" initiative, which successfully restored 200 schools across Sri Lanka in just 45 days following the devastation of Cyclone Ditwah. • Rapid Recovery: The project enabled the swift resumption of education for thousands of students by repairing damaged infrastructure in 200 schools and supporting 4,000 displaced families. • Investment & Scale: Phase 03 of the Divi Saviya program involved an investment exceeding Rs. 500 million. This follows previous chapters that invested Rs. 2.5 billion to provide school supplies to 296,000 children (40% of the national student population) during the economic crisis. • Public-Private Synergy: Group CEO Kapila Jayawardena presented the progress to Prime Minister and Education Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, highlighting how private sector mobilization can complement government disaster management. • Future Phase: The upcoming stage of the initiative will focus on the complete "ground-up" rebuilding and furnishing of selected schools that were entirely destroyed by the disaster. • Strategic Impact: Beyond immediate relief, these efforts stabilize the education sector—a critical pillar for long-term human capital and employment—by preventing student drop-outs during national crises.
📈 Knuckles Spring Water Debuts Sri Lanka’s First Tethered Bottle Cap
Innovation & Sustainability • Knuckles Spring Water, a brand under CPC Lanka (subsidiary of Cargills (Ceylon) PLC), has launched the first tethered bottle cap in the Sri Lankan market. • The design ensures the cap remains attached to the bottle after opening, specifically targeting the reduction of small-format plastic litter in landfills and waterways. Environmental Impact • The initiative aims to improve plastic waste management and boost the recyclability of packaging by ensuring the cap is collected alongside the bottle. • This move aligns Sri Lankan packaging standards with international benchmarks, such as the European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive. Broader Conservation Efforts • Beyond packaging, the brand has deployed "Ocean Strainers" in Boralesgamuwa and Wanathamulla to intercept waterway plastic. • Current ESG activities include ecosystem awareness boards in the Knuckles mountain range, reforestation programs, and community water aid during flood relief. Strategic Context • The shift reflects a growing trend in the food & beverage sector toward circular economy practices and responsible plastic consumption, essential for long-term environmental resource efficiency in Sri Lanka.
📈 DFCC Bank Lists Sri Lanka’s 1st Blue Bond on NSE IX
DFCC Bank has dually listed its inaugural Blue Bond on the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) at GIFT City, India, marking a milestone for sustainable finance in the region. • Issue Details: The bond is valued at LKR 3 billion and was primarily listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). • Cross-Border Collaboration: The listing follows an MoU between NSE IX and the CSE to enhance capital market integration and dual-listing frameworks. • Strategic Focus: Proceeds are dedicated to the marine economy, including sustainable fisheries, aquatic pollution control, and clean drinking water supply. • Historical Context: This follows DFCC’s June 2025 listing of LKR 2.5 billion in green bonds on the same exchange, which focused on renewable energy. • Market Impact: The dual listing aims to diversify the investor base by leveraging GIFT City’s offshore regulatory framework, increasing international visibility for Sri Lankan debt instruments. Based on official exchange disclosures as of February 28, 2026.
### 📈 Sustainability & Global Economic Strategy: Sri Lanka Perspective
A recent high-level address by a former Sri Lankan Ambassador highlights the critical intersection of geo-economics and sustainable development as a pathway for national stability. • Global Economic Context Global GDP reached approximately US$ 118 Tn in 2025. The world spends US$ 2.8 Tn annually on defense—nearly 2.5% of global GDP. In contrast, eliminating global poverty would cost roughly US$ 400 Bn (0.33% of global GDP). • Regional Inequality & Comparisons South Asia’s GDP per capita remains under US$ 2,900, significantly lower than the global average of US$ 14,200. The 10-member ASEAN region averages US$ 6,000 per capita. Wealth inequality is at a historic high; the global Gini-Coefficient reached 68% in 2024. • Strategic Risks for Sri Lanka Data indicates a 15-20% likelihood of internal conflict when a developing nation faces a GDP decline of 4-5% for consecutive years. Sri Lanka’s 2022 crisis is cited as a primary example of this geo-economic vulnerability. • The Sustainability Mandate Achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is viewed as vital for ICT/BPM, education, and human capital development. Investing just 1% of global GDP into SDGs could eliminate most challenges faced by developing nations. The transition from the 4th Industrial Revolution (AI/EVs) to the 5th Industrial Revolution (advanced biotechnology) requires robust multilateral cooperation to ensure smaller nations aren't marginalized.
HNB & David Pieris Solar Partner to Boost Renewable Energy 📈
David Pieris Renewable Energy (DPRE) and Hatton National Bank (HNB) have signed a strategic MoU to provide specialized financing for solar energy adoption across Sri Lanka. • Financial Terms: For the domestic sector, loan values range from Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 7,000,000. Commercial & Industrial (C&I) project financing will be structured based on individual requirements. • Repayment: Loans feature a tenure of up to seven years with competitive, flexible interest rates based on the repayment period. • Strategic Impact: The partnership leverages DPRE’s technical expertise and HNB’s banking network to accelerate the transition to sustainable power for households and businesses. • National Goals: This initiative supports Sri Lanka’s target of 70% renewable energy generation by 2030 and achieving carbon net-zero by 2050.
### Noritake Lanka & Regen Renewables Partner for 350 kWh Solar Project 📈
Regen Renewables Ltd has signed a strategic agreement with Noritake Lanka Porcelain Ltd to implement a solar power project at its Pannala manufacturing facility, advancing sustainable industrial growth in Sri Lanka. • Project Scope: Development of a 350 kWh solar power system designed to integrate clean energy into large-scale industrial operations. • Energy Output: Expected to generate approximately 448,680 kWh of clean energy annually. • Environmental Impact: Estimated reduction of 340 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, supporting Sri Lanka’s climate action goals and NDC targets. • Sector Synergy: Combines Regen’s 13+ years of expertise (80 MW installed capacity) with Noritake’s position as a pioneering porcelain tableware manufacturer. • Economic Context: Highlights the role of the renewable energy and manufacturing sectors in driving a low-carbon transition and enhancing industrial sustainability. Based on official partnership announcements. ---
PIM Green Digital Summit 2026: Bridging Sustainability & Tech 📈
The Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) will host the PIM Green Digital Summit 2026 this Thursday, February 26. The forum aims to integrate digital transformation with sustainable business practices to navigate global economic complexities. • Event Focus: A premier platform for business leaders and academics to explore how sustainability and digital tools drive value creation in a low-carbon future. • Strategic Goal: Aligning with PIM’s "Business School for the New World" vision to develop leaders capable of managing disruption through ICT/BPM and green strategies. • Key Stakeholders: PIM has a massive footprint in Sri Lanka’s professional landscape, having produced over 350 CEOs and 30,000+ trained professionals. • Distinguished Speakers: Led by Director Dr. Asanga Ranasinghe and organized by Tharindu Ameresekere. Keynote contributors include: • Dr. Ravi Fernando (Sustainability Specialist) • Channa de Silva (LankaPay CEO) • Sandun Hapugoda (Mastercard Country Manager) • Impact: The summit focuses on practical applications of data and platforms to build digitally enabled organizations, essential for long-term employment and national economic competitiveness.
## 📈 Hayleys Solar Powers Poultry Sector with 4 MW Installation
Hayleys Solar has successfully completed a large-scale 4,036 kW (4.04 MW) solar PV project for Pussalla Meat Producers, marking a significant shift toward renewable energy within Sri Lanka's livestock and poultry industry. • Project Scope: The installation spans six strategic farm locations, including Ganewatta, Hiripitiya, Mangalaeliya, Mahakumbukkadawala, Dompe, and Nagawilluwa. • Operational Impact: Designed to support energy-intensive operations across the entire value chain—from breeding and feed production to processing—enhancing long-term cost sustainability and reliability. • Environmental Contribution: The project is projected to reduce annual carbon emissions by approximately 3.39 million tonnes, aligning with national sustainability goals. • Strategic Importance: This collaboration highlights the growing trend of renewable energy adoption in the agriculture and food processing sectors to ensure business continuity amidst fluctuating energy costs.
MAS Femography and Selyn Foundation Expand #BleedGood Initiative for 2026 📈
• Strategic Partnership: MAS Femography (FemTech) and the Selyn Foundation have renewed their collaboration to combat period poverty in Sri Lanka through the #BleedGood movement, focusing on women’s well-being and climate-conscious menstrual dignity. • Core Objectives: The 2026 initiative utilizes a four-part model involving the distribution of medical-grade reusable apparel solutions, hygiene education by health practitioners, male advocacy sessions, and climate impact awareness. • Economic & Social Impact: • Focused on reducing long-term costs for women and girls, addressing "unmet needs" exacerbated by Sri Lanka’s recent economic challenges. • Promotes sustainability by transitioning to reusable products, reducing environmental harm compared to disposable alternatives. • Features a robust monitoring framework to inform national policymaking on menstrual equity. • Sector Leadership: Leveraging MAS’s expertise in manufacturing science-backed solutions for menstruation and menopause, the program has evolved from a 2020 crisis response into a multi-stakeholder movement. • Global Footprint: Beyond Sri Lanka, the initiative is piloting programs in Afghanistan and Bangladesh, aiming to set global standards for the apparel & textiles sector in humanitarian contexts.
Global Expert Calls for Transformation of Sri Lankan Capitalism Through Impact Investing 📈
The first-ever Lanka Impact Investment Summit 2026 highlighted a shift toward "activating the invisible heart of the market," urging Sri Lanka to evolve its financial ecosystem beyond traditional models. • Investment Growth: Japan’s impact investment assets surged from US$ 200 Mn in 2016 to US$ 115 Bn in 2024, providing a blueprint for rapid scale-up in emerging markets. • Ecosystem Development: Success depends on coordination between government, finance, and civil society. Japan successfully unlocked US$ 1 Bn annually from dormant bank accounts for social investment via legislative reform. • Strategic Focus: The summit emphasized that impact investing is vital for addressing social challenges—such as aging populations and fiscal deficits—that government funding alone cannot solve. • Opportunities for Sri Lanka: Experts urged the local financial services sector and ICT/BPM social innovators to collaborate with the global GSG network (spanning 50+ countries) to mobilize private capital for development. • Global Alignment: Recent regulatory shifts, including those in JICA, are now enabling greater private capital mobilization, offering Sri Lanka a pathway to integrate into the global impact economy.
Illegal Construction of Jaffna Cricket Stadium on Mandaitivu Island Halted by WNPS Demands 📉
The Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) has issued a strong condemnation against Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) for commencing construction of the proposed Jaffna International Cricket Stadium without mandatory legal approvals. • Legal Violations: Construction began without an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) or Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), violating the National Environmental Act No. 47 of 1980. • Environmental Sensitivity: The site on Mandaitivu Island comprises critical ecosystems including mangroves, seagrass beds, and coastal wetlands near the Mandaitivu Mangrove Reserved Forest. • Economic & Climate Risks: • The area is a natural flood-retention zone (flooded in 2012, 2017, and 2025); the project is flagged as a potentially "wasteful investment" due to high maintenance and flood risks. • Threatens the livelihoods of local families dependent on small-scale fisheries sustained by these habitats. • Current Status: Despite formal notifications to regulatory authorities regarding earth-moving machinery on-site, no decisive action has been taken to halt the "unlawful" activities. WNPS emphasizes that large-scale development in this region weakens natural coastal defenses and sets a dangerous precedent for institutional transparency and environmental law adherence.
Abans Environmental Services Achieves Industry-First Ethical Benchmark 📈
Abans Environmental Services Ltd. has become the first company in Sri Lanka’s facility services sector to achieve SEDEX membership and align with the SMETA audit framework. This milestone, verified by Control Union, establishes a new national standard for ethical and sustainable operations. • Key Achievement: First Sri Lankan facility services provider to meet global SMETA standards for labor, health and safety, environment, and business ethics. • Company Profile: Part of the diversified Abans Group (est. 1985), providing janitorial, pest control, and facility management across commercial and public sectors. • Workforce Impact: Strengthens governance and workplace safety for the sector’s largest technology-enabled workforce, promoting fair labor practices and employee welfare. • Strategic Value: Enhances transparency and ESG compliance, aligning Sri Lankan services with global supply chain expectations for international partners.
Marks and Spencer Donates Rs. 4.7 Mn to ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund 📈
Global retailer Marks and Spencer has contributed to national recovery efforts through a significant financial donation to the Government’s dedicated fund. • Contribution Details: A total of nearly Rs. 4.7 million was donated to the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. • Key Representatives: The donation was formalized at the Presidential Secretariat by Marks and Spencer General Manager Rifat Arman and Regional Manager Shabry Aher. • Official Handover: The cheque was received by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, in the presence of senior company officials. • Context: This move underscores the involvement of the apparel & retail sector in supporting national stabilization and development initiatives during the recovery phase.
Policy Focus: "Clean Sri Lanka" vs. Street Economy 📈
The Clean Sri Lanka initiative, launched in early 2025 with an allocated budget of Rs. 6,500 Mn for 2026, faces a critical junction between environmental goals and the survival of the informal retail sector. Recent enforcement in Nuwara Eliya and Kandy highlights the tension between urban "beautification" and the livelihoods of low-income vendors. • Overall Economic Context • The program aims for a holistic transformation of social, environmental, and ethical standards across all sectors. • Budget 2026 emphasizes "Clean Sri Lanka" as a pillar for boosting tourism and "green jobs." • Despite a 5% GDP growth and stabilized inflation, essential costs remain high for daily wage earners. • Sectoral Impact: Street Trading & Retail • Pavement vendors in Nuwara Eliya report being cleared ahead of high-profile visits and the upcoming "April Season." • In Kandy, a total ban on street vending was implemented on Jan 1, 2026, to ensure "public convenience." • Vendors offer essential goods (apparel, electronics, vegetables) at fractions of mall prices (e.g., torches at Rs. 2,000 vs Rs. 8,000), serving as a vital "poverty buffer." • Key Concerns & Observations • Informal economy: Risk of excluding small-time traders in favor of large Colombo-based businesses during peak tourist seasons. • Livelihoods: Sellers note that the "cleanliness" drive often equates their presence with "litter," despite the lack of alternative trading infrastructure. • Diversification: Critics urge linking poverty eradication to the initiative to ensure "Clean Sri Lanka" does not marginalize the working class.
## 📈 Atlas SipSavi Initiative Combats School Dropout Rates
The Atlas SipSavi Christmas Promise has successfully concluded a nationwide intervention to support education, addressing the critical issue of approximately 22,000 children dropping out of school annually in Sri Lanka due to economic hardships. • Core Impact: The initiative operated on a "1-for-1" model where Atlas matched every book donated by the public with a new book, effectively doubling the total educational aid distributed to underfunded schools. • Strategic Intervention: The project targeted schools in regions facing severe economic challenges to provide essential learning materials, which often act as a primary barrier to education for low-income families. • Socio-Economic Goal: Beyond material aid, the program serves as a direct effort to reduce the national dropout rate and support the education sector, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede a child's right to schooling. • Community Engagement: The initiative leveraged a collective social model, mobilizing individuals and families to contribute to the long-term resilience of the country's future workforce through the stationery and educational supplies industry. _Summary based on official project report and provisional impact data._ ---
IFAC President Commends CA Sri Lanka’s Leadership in Sustainable Finance 📈
• Overall Leadership: The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) President, Jean Bouquot, lauded the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) for its proactive role in adopting global standards, positioning the nation as a model for corporate accountability. • Sustainability Reporting: Key focus was placed on the implementation of SLFRS S1 and S2 (adapted from IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards). This move is aimed at reducing regulatory fragmentation and enhancing Sri Lanka’s sustainable finance ecosystem. • Strategic Standards: A call to action was issued for the local profession to adopt the ISSA 5000 assurance standard to ensure high-quality, consistent sustainability disclosures and maintain market competitiveness against non-professionals. • Digital Transformation: The shift from "scorekeeping to strategy" via AI was highlighted. Professionals were urged to enhance digital literacy and address risks such as cybersecurity and bias to redefine the role of the accountancy sector in the digital age. • Partnerships: The 50-year partnership between CA Sri Lanka and IFAC remains a pillar for economic growth and ethical integrity, supported by collaborations with government and donor agencies to build expertise in both public and private sectors.
New Anthoney’s Farms Partners with University for Antibiotic-Free Verification 📈
• New Anthoney’s Farms Ltd has signed a landmark 5-year MoU with the University of Peradeniya to establish independent third-party testing for its poultry production. • This makes New Anthoney's the first and only poultry producer in Sri Lanka to submit its entire production cycle to scientific verification by an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited university laboratory. • The partnership aims to provide laboratory-proven evidence of the company’s "100% antibiotic-free" claims, addressing global concerns over Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), which is projected to cause US$ 100 Tn in economic losses by 2050. • Key operational highlights: Production Standards: Uses probiotics, essential oils, and superior biosecurity instead of antibiotics (since 2018). Sustainability: First in South Asia to adopt the Sustainable U.S. Soy label; features 100% compostable packaging via its HarithaHari brand. Compliance: Holds FSSC 22000 and ISO 14064-1:2018 greenhouse gas verification. • While the transition to antibiotic-free farming involves higher production costs and more rigorous health management, the move strengthens consumer trust and positions Sri Lanka’s livestock sector toward higher international safety standards.
## Sustainable Agriculture: Sri Lanka Urged to Adopt EIQ for Pesticide Safety 📈
A new framework for pesticide evaluation is being proposed to safeguard Sri Lanka's agricultural sector, moving beyond mere effectiveness and cost to prioritize environmental and human safety. • The Shift to EIQ The Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ), developed by Cornell University, offers a scientific score to assess risks to farmers, consumers, and ecosystems. It targets a "triple-bottom-line" for farming: effectiveness, economics, and environmental safety. • Why it Matters for Sri Lanka • Tropical climate risks: High temperatures and heavy rain in the dry zone increase the risk of chemical runoff into irrigation canals and rivers. • Biodiversity protection: Aims to protect bees (pollination), fish, and soil health (earthworms) from chemical exposure. • Worker & Consumer safety: Reduces long-term health risks for rural farmers and ensures safer food for consumers by minimizing residues. • Field Application (EIQ-FUR) The Field Use Rating (EIQ-FUR) provides a practical measure by considering the actual application rate and active ingredient percentage. A score below 25 is generally considered a lower environmental burden. • Policy Recommendations The Department of Agriculture (DOA) is urged to integrate EIQ alongside existing WHO classifications to move toward sustainable food security and meet international food safety standards.
📈 Tess Agro Expands Renewable Footprint with Rs. 60M Solar Project
Tess Agro PLC has officially commissioned a 380 kWp rooftop solar PV project at its Kerawalapitiya warehouse, marking a significant step in the company's transition toward sustainable energy. • Project Details • Investment: Rs. 60 Million. • Capacity: 380 kWp (New) / 460 kWp (Total Aggregate). • Timeline: Connected to the national grid on 15 Jan 2026; load balancing completed 16 Feb 2026. • Operational Impact • Focuses on reducing high operational energy costs within the cold chain & seafood export sector. • Aims to lower carbon emissions in line with national renewable energy targets. • Supports long-term shareholder value through cost optimization and sustainability. • Economic Context • This expansion aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader push for renewable energy, contributing to the national grid’s stability and reducing industrial reliance on fossil fuels.
Shift from Production to Resilience: Sri Lanka’s New Food Security Priority 📈
Recent analysis by leading academics highlights that increasing agriculture output alone is insufficient for food security. Despite stable harvests, volatile prices and shortages persist due to systemic inefficiencies. • Key Systemic Gaps Climate Uncertainty: Unpredictable rainfall and floods are forcing farmers to prioritize short-term risk reduction over long-term productivity. Post-Harvest Losses: A significant portion of rice, fruits, and vegetables never reaches consumers due to poor handling, storage, and transport. Market Disconnect: Regional price spikes occur even during peak harvests due to weak rural-urban connectivity and disrupted supply chains. • Strategic Recommendations Infrastructure: Urgent need for cold-chain logistics and improved storage to reduce spoilage and maintain nutritional value. Value Addition: Scaling the food processing sector and ICT integration to improve market information flow. Systemic Resilience: Moving beyond "more food" to ensure food reaches people safely and consistently, mirroring models in Japan and the Netherlands. The shift toward a resilient food system is viewed as a national priority for economic stability and public health, moving beyond traditional short-term production targets.
California Temple Boosts ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund 📈
A US-based religious institution has contributed to national recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. • Key Contribution: The Sun Valley Maithree Vihara in Southern California donated US$ 21,500 (approx. LKR 6.3 Mn) to the government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. • Source of Funds: The donation was raised through a community fundraising program organized by the temple to support Sri Lankans affected by the recent natural disaster. • Formal Handover: The funds were officially presented to the Consul General of Sri Lanka on National Independence Day (Feb 4) under the guidance of Chief Incumbent Venerable Dr. Aparakke Punyasiri Thera. National Context & Fund Status: • The ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund was established to mitigate the economic shock of Cyclone Ditwah, which caused an estimated US$ 4.1 Bn in direct damages (approx. 4% of GDP). • Key sectors including agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure have faced significant disruptions, with recovery efforts relying heavily on a mix of state funding, foreign aid, and diaspora contributions. • Recent data indicates the fund has surpassed Rs. 4.2 Bn in total collections, bolstered by both local corporate leaders and the global Sri Lankan community.
📈 HUTCH Launches Sri Lanka’s First Sustainability-Centric Retail Spaces
HUTCH Sri Lanka has introduced its new "Signature" retail concept, marking the first time sustainability has been holistically integrated into the country's telecommunications retail landscape. The initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the global commitments of parent company CK Hutchison Holdings. • Strategic Expansion: Launched two flagship outlets—Signature+ at Colombo Fort (business hub) and a Signature outlet in Negombo, with more locations planned nationwide. • Green Infrastructure: Outlets are built using 90% repurposed materials and sustainable sourcing, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of retail expansion. • Energy & Circularity: The spaces are powered by renewable wind and solar energy. They feature dedicated e-waste collection points to promote the responsible disposal of communication devices. • Value Creation: Beyond service points, these outlets function as education centers, providing curated facts and illustrations to foster environmental stewardship among the public. The ICT/BPM and telecommunications sectors continue to lead in corporate responsibility, with HUTCH setting a new benchmark for "responsible growth" by transforming retail infrastructure into long-term investments for the country’s future.
## 🚴 Trek4 Sri Lanka 2026: Promoting Sustainable Tourism through Charity
The 2026 Trek4 Sri Lanka charity cycle ride has officially commenced, connecting Colombo to Jaffna to support regional healthcare infrastructure. • Event Overview: A five-day, 560-kilometer trek that started from Cinnamon Grand Colombo on February 10, concluding in Jaffna on February 14. • Charity Objective: All proceeds are dedicated to the restoration of St. Luke’s Methodist Mission Hospital in Puttur, focusing on community development and healthcare. • International Participation: Over 50 riders from 11 countries, including the UK, Australia, and the USA, are participating in the event. • Economic Impact: Supported by the British and Australian High Commissions, the initiative aims to boost the local economy by promoting eco-tourism and sustainable tourism practices. • Sector Focus: The event highlights the potential for sports tourism and hospitality to drive growth in the Northern and North-Western provinces through cultural exploration and physical challenge.
LOLC Finance Secures ISO 14064-1 for Third Consecutive Year 📈
LOLC Finance PLC has successfully renewed its ISO 14064-1:2018 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Verification Certificate for the third consecutive year, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable finance. • Scope of Certification: The audit, conducted by the Sri Lanka Climate Fund under the Ministry of Environment, verified Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions with a "reasonable level of assurance." • Network Coverage: The verification covers the corporate Head Office and its entire island-wide network of over 200 branches. • Strategic Goal: This achievement is a key pillar in the company’s roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, integrating environmental stewardship with its core financial services operations. • Key Sustainability Highlights: • First premises in Sri Lanka to receive the Green SL® Institutional Sustainability Rating. • Ongoing transition to renewable energy via a nationwide branch solarization program. • Implementation of a "Zero Waste to Landfill" roadmap and the 7R principles across the organization. The certification underscores LOLC Finance's commitment to transparent reporting and data-driven emissions management as it scales its national footprint in the NBFI sector.
First Capital Donates Rs. 15 M for Cyclone Relief 📈
• First Capital Holdings PLC has contributed Rs. 15 million to the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ fund. • The donation is specifically aimed at providing relief to communities impacted by the recent cyclone Ditwah. • The funds were officially handed over to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, by First Capital’s MD/CEO Dilshan Weerasekara. • This corporate contribution underscores the role of the financial services sector in supporting national disaster recovery and community resilience efforts.
📈 Sri Lanka’s Retail Sector Goes Green: First Environmental Certification Launched
Sri Lanka is entering a new era of sustainable commerce with the official expansion of the Ecolabel Sri Lanka program into the retail sector. Launched today at a CEO Forum in Colombo, this initiative introduces the country’s first environmental certification specifically designed for shopping malls and supermarkets. • Key Initiative: The National Cleaner Production Centre (NCPC) Sri Lanka has adapted Japan’s successful "Eco Mark" model to help local retailers implement globally recognized green standards. • Sustainability Focus: The scheme prioritizes energy efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible resource management to minimize the environmental footprint of large-scale retail operations. • Strategic Impact: • Market Competitiveness: Strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a regional leader in sustainable business. • Operational Gains: Certified businesses are expected to see significant reductions in energy costs and waste generation. • Consumer Influence: Aims to shift consumer expectations toward greener shopping environments and transparent environmental claims. • Governance & Standards: The program is accredited by the Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB) and maintains full membership in the Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN), ensuring international credibility for the retail sector. Note: Based on the official launch at the CEO Forum held on 11 February 2026.
### 📉 Tea Sector: 2026 Predicted as Toughest Year for Growers
Dilmah Tea Chairman Dilhan C. Fernando warns that 2026 may be the most challenging year for the tea industry, citing a systemic "race to the bottom" that threatens both the sector and global food security. • The "Discount Culture" Crisis Global focus on cheap produce is driving an unethical and unsustainable environment for growers. "Opaque value chains" and profit-motivated buying favor mediocre quality over premium tea standards. Excessive discounting is blamed for disconnecting consumers from the true cost of worker welfare and environmental health. • Existential Threats to the Industry Climate Change & Soil Health: Rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns compromise biodiversity and food safety. Economic Inequality: While funds for sustainability exist, Fernando notes they often go to the "wrong pockets," leaving producers unable to afford essential adaptation. National Impact: Sri Lanka’s tea industry cannot genuinely afford the high cost of climate adaptation under current commodity pricing models. • Sector Priorities for 2026 Agricultural innovation and soil rehabilitation are critical for survival. Addressing gender balance, nutrition, and housing in tea communities to prevent industry disintegration. The shift from "commodity pricing" to "value-based" models is essential to protect the livelihoods of millions.
Asia Siyaka Logistics Centre Sets Global Benchmark with ZeroCarbon Certification 📈
• Sri Lanka’s Asia Siyaka Warehousing (ASW) has become the world’s first tea logistics company to achieve ZeroCarbon certification from the Sustainable Future Group (SFG). • The facility, located in the Muthurajawela logistics hub, is now the first globally to hold both LEED and ZeroCarbon credentials, alongside ISO 22000 food safety certification. • Key operational highlights of the tea logistics hub: • Spans 240,000 sq. ft. across 6 acres. • Features 29,000 pallet positions. • Capacity to hold 11 million kg of tea at any given time. • This milestone enhances the ESG performance of the Ceylon Tea value chain, supporting tea producers and exporters in reducing logistics-related emissions while meeting international buyer demands for transparency and sustainability. • The achievement strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a leader in responsible agri-logistics and bolsters the long-term global competitiveness of the tea sector.
Waves of Hope Charity Concert Tonight in Aid of Cyclone Victims 📈
A major charity event, Waves of Hope, takes place tonight to support recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah. Organised by Rotary District 3220 and the Western Musicians Association (WMA), the concert aims to raise critical funds for affected communities. • Overall Impact Context: Cyclone Ditwah (Nov/Dec 2025) caused an estimated US$ 4.10 Bn in direct physical damage, equivalent to 4% of GDP. The disaster affected over 2.30 Mn people, with over 600 fatalities and 200,000 displaced nationwide. • Event Details: - Time/Venue: Tonight, 7:00 PM at Radisson Blu (Hotel Galadari) Ballroom. - Participants: Performances by Misty, Chitral, Dalreen, Rukshan, and others, all appearing free of charge. - Proceeds: 100% of funds directed toward relief and recovery for families and schools in the hardest-hit provinces (Central and Eastern). • Sector & Economic Focus: Infrastructure damage alone is estimated at US$ 1.74 Bn (42% of total loss), severely disrupting ICT/BPM connectivity and trade routes. The agriculture sector faced an US$ 814 Mn hit, impacting food security and rural livelihoods. Fundraisers like this support the recovery trajectory by addressing immediate humanitarian gaps. • Availability: Only a few tickets/tables remain from the original 50-table capacity. Tickets are priced at Rs. 10,000 (inclusive of dinner). _Information based on provisional disaster management and event organiser data._
Waves of Hope Charity Concert Tonight in Aid of Cyclone Victims 📈
A major charity event, Waves of Hope, takes place tonight to support recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah. Organised by Rotary District 3220 and the Western Musicians Association (WMA), the concert aims to raise critical funds for affected communities. • Overall Impact Context: Cyclone Ditwah (Nov/Dec 2025) caused an estimated US$ 4.10 Bn in direct physical damage, equivalent to 4% of GDP. The disaster affected over 2.30 Mn people, with over 600 fatalities and 200,000 displaced nationwide. • Event Details: - Time/Venue: Tonight, 7:00 PM at Radisson Blu (Hotel Galadari) Ballroom. - Participants: Performances by Misty, Chitral, Dalreen, Rukshan, and others, all appearing free of charge. - Proceeds: 100% of funds directed toward relief and recovery for families and schools in the hardest-hit provinces (Central and Eastern). • Sector & Economic Focus: Infrastructure damage alone is estimated at US$ 1.74 Bn (42% of total loss), severely disrupting ICT/BPM connectivity and trade routes. The agriculture sector faced an US$ 814 Mn hit, impacting food security and rural livelihoods. Fundraisers like this support the recovery trajectory by addressing immediate humanitarian gaps. • Availability: Only a few tickets/tables remain from the original 50-table capacity. Tickets are priced at Rs. 10,000 (inclusive of dinner). _Information based on provisional disaster management and event organiser data._
📈 SLI Life and General Support Cyclone 'Ditwah' Relief
State-owned insurance giants, Sri Lanka Insurance Life (SLICLL) and Sri Lanka Insurance General (SLICGI), have mobilized resources to support national recovery following the devastating 'Ditwah' cyclone. • Relief Contribution: A financial donation, raised through voluntary employee contributions across both organizations, was formally handed over to Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. • Disaster Response: Beyond the financial aid, the entities implemented a multi-pronged relief strategy, including: • Distribution of dry ration packs to affected families. • An island-wide clean-up and restoration program to facilitate community recovery. • Economic Context: As key state-owned enterprises (SOEs), the move underscores the role of the insurance sector in national disaster resilience and social responsibility, complementing their core mandate of risk coverage. • Corporate Commitment: The initiative reflects a coordinated effort between the financial services sector and the government to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on the national economy and community welfare. _Data based on official reports from the Ministry of Finance and SLIC._
Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) Advances Sustainable & Inclusive Work Agenda 📈
The EFC, Sri Lanka’s leading national employer organization, has concluded its 2024/25 initiatives, centering on industrial relations, sustainable growth, and workforce resilience. Key efforts focused on navigating the "new normal" through tech-readiness and social responsibility. • Core Objectives & Mission • Promote social harmony via productive employment and efficient workforce management. • Resolve industrial disputes fairly to ensure growth and stability. • Represent member interests in labour law and national policy advocacy. • Strategic Highlights 2024/25 • Employers’ Symposium 2025: Focused on ecological, demographic, and regulatory shifts under the theme "Traversing Turbulence." • Digital Transformation: Launched the EFC mobile app to streamline member services and access to legal/HR resources. • Sustainability: Directed initiatives toward "Green Skills" and climate-conscious innovation across manufacturing and SMEs. • Inclusion & Safety Initiatives • Gender Equality: Conducted specialized training on gender equity; celebrated women’s contributions in the workforce. • Disability Inclusion: Performed accessibility audits for major firms like HSBC and MAS Capital to improve workplace physical standards. • Occupational Safety & Health (OSH): Partnered with the ILO for a "Safety + Health for All" study in the plantation sector, specifically targeting hazards in tea plucking and chemical handling. • Sectoral Representation The EFC represents 21 industries through specialized groups including Hotels & Tourism, Banking & Insurance, Apparel & Textiles, Logistics, and ICT/BPM.
📈 Kala Pola 2026: Driving Sri Lanka’s Creative Economy
The 33rd edition of Sri Lanka’s iconic open-air art fair, Kala Pola, is scheduled for 8 February 2026 at Green Path, Colombo. As a cornerstone of the national cultural calendar, the event serves as a vital platform for the creative economy, connecting local talent with global audiences. • Overall Impact • Provides an uncurated marketplace for hundreds of visual artists and sculptors to showcase work directly to collectors. • Historical data indicates the event typically attracts over 30,000 local and foreign visitors, generating significant direct sales (e.g., Rs. 51 Mn in 2024). • Fosters social health and cohesion by democratizing art through inclusive, open-air access. • Sector & Participant Breakdown • Visual Arts: Features a diverse range including abstract paintings, intricate sculptures, and traditional Sri Lankan art. • Livelihood Development: Enables emerging artists to build a client base and transition art into a professional career. • Cultural Tourism: Attracts international tourists, positioning Colombo as a regional hub for contemporary and traditional expression. • Strategic Partnerships • Patronage: Sponsored by the John Keells Group for 32 consecutive years; part of their CSR focus on Social Health and Cohesion. • Banking: Nations Trust Bank (NTB) serves as the Official Banking Partner, facilitating financial inclusion for participating creators.
People’s Bank Marks 78th Independence with ‘Birth of Freedom’ Initiative 🇱🇰
• Banking Sector leader People’s Bank celebrated Sri Lanka’s 78th Independence Day by launching its annual ‘Birth of Freedom’ program, aimed at fostering national pride and long-term financial planning. • Retail Banking Focus: The bank is gifting a Rs. 2,000/- ‘Isuru Udana’ Gift Certificate to every baby born island-wide between February 1st and 14th, 2026. • Strategic Objectives: • Encourages parents to open ‘Isuru Udana’ Children’s Savings Accounts to secure future financial stability. • Promotes financial inclusion from birth, a program active since 2006. • Strengthening community ties through direct hospital visits by bank staff to present vouchers. • Implementation: The initiative was inaugurated at Castle Street and De Soysa Hospitals by Chairman Prof. Narada Fernando and CEO/GM Clive Fonseka, with simultaneous activities across all island-wide branches. 📈
## Holcim Bets on Carbon Capture for Near-Zero Cement 📈
Global building materials giant Holcim has announced a strategic investment in Capsol Technologies, a Norwegian leader in carbon capture, to accelerate its goal of industrial-scale decarbonization. • Core Investment Goals Part of a CHF 2 billion (US$ 2.2 Bn) global commitment to carbon capture by 2030. Target to capture over 5 million tons of CO2 annually. Aiming for a 22% reduction in Scope 1 emissions per ton of cementitious material by 2030. • Technology Highlights Uses Hot Potassium Carbonate (HPC) solvent technology for post-combustion capture. Integrates a specialized heat recovery system to maximize energy efficiency. Designed to address the cement industry’s heavy footprint (approx. 8% of global CO2 emissions). • Sector & National Impact Cement & Construction: Critical for "hard-to-abate" sectors where 900kg of CO2 is typically emitted per 1,000kg of cement. Sustainability: The move aligns with global demand for "near-zero" building materials, supporting sustainable infrastructure and long-term employment in green tech. Regional Context: While the tech is being piloted in Europe (Germany), Holcim's global roadmap influences its wide footprint, including markets like Sri Lanka where sustainable construction is increasingly prioritized.
JFMH Trust Funds Modernization of Histopathology at USJ 📈
The Joseph Fraser Memorial Hospital (JFMH) Trust has pledged significant funding to modernize the Histopathology Unit at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ), aimed at enhancing healthcare infrastructure and diagnostic capabilities. • Phase 1 Initiatives: Focuses on establishing Immunohistochemistry (IHC) testing facilities. The JFMH Trust has already disbursed the first tranche of a full donation to enable in-house hormone receptor testing for breast cancer specimens. • Current Service Gap: The unit currently processes 3,800 - 4,000 specimens annually. Previously, approx. 500 - 600 cancer cases required external lab transfers for essential tests; Phase 1 will eliminate this dependency. • Future Expansion (Phases 2 & 3): The Trust and University have explored further restructuring, including: Automated diagnostic machinery and modern grossing stations. Digital Pathology software for instant clinician access to reports. Educational Tech: Multi-header microscopes for medical education and research collaboration with foreign universities. • Impact: This partnership strengthens Sri Lanka's medical research and diagnostic services sector, improving patient outcomes through faster, localized cancer diagnostics and advanced training for the next generation of medical professionals. _Status: Phase 1 implementation underway; detailed proposals for future phases pending._
Mastercard ‘Tap for Change’ to Fund Sri Lanka’s Largest Community Cancer Hospital 🏥
Mastercard has launched the ‘Tap for Change’ campaign in partnership with the Colours of Courage Trust to support national healthcare infrastructure and oncology services. • Financial Commitment: Mastercard has pledged US$ 750,000 towards the construction of the Trail Cancer Hospital in Karapitiya. • Project Scope: The facility will be a 10-storey, 160-bed hospital serving both adult and paediatric patients. It features a bone marrow transplant unit, advanced diagnostics, and operating theatres. • Mechanism: Starting January 2026, every contactless (tap-to-pay) and e-commerce transaction made using a Mastercard debit or credit card in Sri Lanka will contribute to the donation pool. • Strategic Impact: The initiative leverages the growing ICT/digital payments ecosystem to address critical gaps in the healthcare sector, specifically expanding access for underserved patients in the Southern region. • Partnership: Collaboration between Mastercard and the Colours of Courage Trust (co-founded by Mahela Jayawardene) highlights the role of the private sector and NGOs in driving social impact through financial technology.
📈 Carbon-Neutral Symposium Urges Sustainable Shift in Tourism
Industry leaders and global experts convened at the Amba Yaalu symposium to address the urgent transition toward environment-responsive tourism, highlighting a shift from quantitative to qualitative growth. • Economic & Workforce Dynamics Tourism is recognized as a primary global job creator, yet local female participation remains low at only 10% of the hospitality workforce. In contrast, other major foreign currency earners like tea and apparel & textiles maintain significantly higher employment rates for women. Average per-day visitor spend has decreased from US$ 170 (2018) to below US$ 140 currently, despite rising arrival numbers. • Environmental & Waste Management Sri Lanka faces a "terrorism against the environment," utilizing 20M shopping bags, 15M lunch sheets, and 10M PET bottles daily. The current plastic recycling rate stands at a low 3%. New regulations mandate plastic manufacturers to recover 40% of their production or face registration cancellation. • Strategic Sustainable Initiatives Launch of the island’s first carbon-calculated tour itinerary specifically targeting the high-spending, eco-conscious EU market. Focus on "slow travel," renewable energy integration, and increasing EV penetration to safeguard environmental assets. Emphasis on climate-responsive investments and data-driven decisions to bridge the gap between national adaptation plans and fiscal execution.
📈 IEPSL CEO Forum: Navigating ESG Amid Economic Recovery
The Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL) will host a high-level CEO Forum tomorrow, 30 January 2026, focused on maintaining Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards during economic hardship. The event serves as a precursor to the EcoConvergence 2026 technical sessions. • Strategic Mandatory Compliance: As of January 2025, Sri Lanka has adopted SLFRS S1 and S2 sustainability disclosure standards. All listed entities on the Colombo Stock Exchange are mandated to achieve full compliance by 2026. • Key Economic Drivers: • Green Productivity: Aims to combine environmental stewardship with cost savings and profitability. • Growth Potential: The Asia-Pacific green economy is estimated to drive up to US$ 120 Bn in GDP growth and create 900,000 new jobs. • Export Market Access: Robust ESG credentials are now non-negotiable for exporters to retain access to the European Union and other major global trading partners. • Expert Panel: • Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe (Central Bank Governor) on financial stability and sustainable development. • Kapila Rajapakse (CEA Director General) on navigating the evolving regulatory landscape. • Prof. Sugeeth Patabandige on the shift of capital toward environmentally responsible enterprises. The forum emphasizes that for the private sector, sustainability has transitioned from a discretionary initiative to a critical strategic growth lever for national economic resilience.
## 🌿 Genesis Series Features Global Expert on Rainforestation Farming
The Genesis Thought leadership series today hosts Prof. Friedhelm Goeltenboth to discuss Rainforestation Farming, a sustainable land-use model designed to restore biodiversity and boost rural incomes in the humid tropics. • Key Concept: Unlike conventional replanting, this system uses native forest and fruit tree species in a near-natural structure. It creates quick canopy cover to suppress invasive species and restore soil health before introducing shade-loving forest species. • Economic & Environmental Impact: • Diversified Income: Provides rural communities with revenue from fruit, timber, and shade-tolerant crops. • Ecosystem Services: Proven to restore endangered wildlife habitats within 4 years, reduce erosion, improve water retention, and enhance carbon sequestration. • Sector Relevance: Highly applicable to Sri Lanka’s agriculture and sustainability sectors, addressing the balance between food security and forest conservation. • Expert Profile: Prof. Goeltenboth brings 25+ years of experience across Asia, including Sri Lanka. His model is currently adopted by government agencies in the Philippines as a viable solution for landscape rehabilitation. • Event Details: Taking place today, 29 January, at 5.00 p.m. at the GENESIS: Dilmah Centre for Sustainable Future.
📈 CICT & WNPS Partner for Colombo Coastal Conservation
Colombo International Container Terminals (CICT) has launched a three-year (2025–2028) partnership with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) to protect sea turtles and coastal ecosystems. The initiative, titled the Turtle and Coastal Health United Programme (TACHUP), targets the urbanized shoreline from Colombo Port City to Mount Lavinia. • Conservation Focus: Protection of five out of the seven global sea turtle species that nest along Colombo’s coast. Efforts include safeguarding nests, restoring coastal vegetation, and enhancing data collection via citizen science. • Proven Impact: The project scales up existing work that has recorded 680+ turtle visits in a single season, protecting over 15,900 eggs with a hatching success rate exceeding 80%. • Sustainability & ESG: This partnership aligns with Colombo’s status as a Ramsar Wetland City and reflects CICT’s commitment to responsible port operations and long-term ecological resilience. • National Context: By integrating local communities and schools, the programme promotes environmental stewardship within a critical trade gateway, balancing industrial growth with biodiversity.
SLAF & Aitken Spence Partner for ‘Clean Today, Green Tomorrow’ 🌿
The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Seva Vanitha Unit, in collaboration with Aitken Spence PLC, successfully concluded the “Clean Today, Green Tomorrow” initiative, marking a significant shift toward environmental stewardship as part of the SLAF's 75th Anniversary celebrations. • Core Objectives: The program moved beyond temporary clean-ups to embed long-term, measurable sustainability into daily military operations across all island-wide establishments. • Sector Focus & Champions: • Waste Management: Focused on segregation and eliminating single-use plastics. Champion: SLAF Trade Training School, Ekala. • Reforestation & Tree Planting: Aimed at biodiversity enhancement and green belts. Champion: SLAF Station Sigiriya. • Eco-Gardening: Promoted food security through organic cultivation. Champion: SLAF Base Katunayake. • Energy & Water Conservation: Implemented solar solutions, LED conversions, and rainwater reuse. Champion: SLAF Station Sri Jayewardenepura. • Public-Private Synergy: Aitken Spence PLC served as the sustainability partner, providing technical expertise and exposure to best practices at Heritance Kandalama and their tea estates. The Spence Impact Award was specifically awarded to SLAF Station Iranamadu for responsible operations in sensitive ecosystems. • Economic Relevance: By integrating sustainability into national defence, the initiative supports long-term resource resilience and aligns with global military trends where climate change is viewed as a national security risk.
📈 Suwanda Industries Recertified as ZeroCarbon Manufacturer for 2025
Suwanda Industries, the producer of the globally recognized brand Cycle Pure Incense, has officially secured its ZeroCarbon Manufacturer recertification for 2025. This achievement solidifies its position as Sri Lanka’s only carbon-neutral manufacturer in the incense sector. • Environmental Sustainability: The certification was awarded by The Sustainable Future Group (SFG) following a comprehensive audit. Key drivers included the adoption of renewable energy, enhanced energy efficiency, and sustainable manufacturing processes. • Social Impact & Inclusion: Born from a 2009 initiative to support conflict-affected, women-led households, the company continues its focus on economic inclusion. Its "Women Packing Units Concept" empowers local women, integrating social responsibility with industrial growth. • Market Footprint: A joint venture between Sri Lanka’s Eswaran Brothers Ltd (a leader in value-added tea) and India’s N. Ranga Rao & Sons Ltd. The brand now exports to over 75 countries, featuring innovations like the heritage-inspired Parampara sticks. • Strategic Context: The recertification highlights the company's commitment to operational resilience and purpose-driven business, aligning environmental stewardship with community empowerment in the manufacturing sector.
Prioritizing Workplace Mental Health in South Asia 📈
The latest Global Workplace Report highlights a critical need for integrated wellness strategies as South Asia records the highest regional levels of daily anger and sadness among employees. Addressing mental health stigma is now a strategic priority for HRM and organizational sustainability. • Regional Context & Data South Asia leads globally in workplace emotional distress due to socio-economic pressures and societal stigma. The WHO reports ~1 billion people globally suffer from mental health disorders, with anxiety and depression being the most prevalent. • Integrated Wellbeing Framework Organizations are encouraged to adopt a holistic approach covering physical, mental, social, and financial wellbeing. Financial wellbeing is linked to performance, emphasizing the need for "paying worth" and providing access to financial management resources. • Strategic Workplace Interventions Leadership Role: Authentic conversations from the top regarding burnout and anxiety are essential to set the cultural tone. Policy & Training: Implementation of wellness and anti-harassment policies, coupled with regular training for the middle tier and line managers. Professional Support: Providing discreet access to in-house or on-call counselors to ensure confidentiality and professional diagnosis. • Innovation & Retention Psychological safety is a prerequisite for the ICT/BPM and creative sectors; management tolerance for project risks encourages new ideas. Public ridicule is cited as a primary driver for absenteeism and "quiet quitting," whereas private feedback preserves employee trust.
## Sri Lanka Rethinks Disaster Strategy to Break Poverty Cycle 📈
Experts and private sector leaders warn that reactive disaster management is deepening poverty, calling for a shift toward risk-informed development and resilient infrastructure. • Economic Impact & Poverty Link Natural disasters in Sri Lanka are increasingly intersecting with poverty and inequality. Experts note that repeated climate shocks expose structural weaknesses, often pushing vulnerable communities back into poverty cycles due to weak policy planning. • Private Sector & Recovery Funding The Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, established following Cyclone Ditwah, has mobilized Rs. 4.2 Billion from the private sector. John Keells Holdings Chairman Krishan Balendra emphasized that private investment must prioritize sustainability and community wellbeing to ensure long-term economic continuity. • Strategic Policy Shifts • Urban Planning: Warnings against unplanned expansion that places low-income groups in high-risk zones. • Nature-based Solutions: Utilizing wetlands and floodplains as protective assets rather than obstacles to development. • Institutional Reform: Moving from mere recovery to "building back smarter" by addressing underlying risks. • Priority Actions Panelists identified seven key priorities, including strengthening school-level awareness, improving early warning systems, and fostering blended public-private collaborations to bridge governance gaps.
📈 Climate Crisis: A Strategic Risk for Sri Lankan Business
The Global Climate Risk Index ranks Sri Lanka as the 88th most vulnerable nation. Climate-related disruptions could cost the country up to 3.5% of GDP annually by 2050 if mitigation is not prioritized. • Economic Impact & Losses • Annual average disaster losses: US$ 380 Mn. • Floods: Cost approx. US$ 240 Mn per year. • Energy: 2019 drought slashed hydropower to 15% of total generation, increasing reliance on costly fuel imports. • Sector Breakdowns • Agriculture: Contributes 7.5% to GDP. 2023/24 rice production losses exceeded US$ 150 Mn. Coconut production saw US$ 166 Mn in damages during 2017/18 droughts. • Tourism: 40% of assets are in high-risk coastal zones. Threats include coral bleaching and severe beach erosion. • Apparel & Textiles: Facing pressure from the EU Green Deal and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to verify environmental credentials. • SMEs & Emissions • SMEs comprise 75% of businesses but lack resources to buffer climate shocks. • National Emissions: Energy (64.1%), Agriculture (29.5%), and Industrial Processes (2%). • Strategic Response • Mandatory Reporting: Top 100 listed firms must disclose climate risks (SLFRS S1 & S2) starting January 2025. • Opportunities: Investing in renewable energy (70% target by 2030) and green finance (sustainability-linked loans) to build resilient supply chains.
ComBank Accelerates 'ForwardTogether' 2026 Sustainable Transformation 📈
Commercial Bank of Ceylon (ComBank) has advanced its sustainable banking agenda through the "ForwardTogether 2026" initiative, shifting focus from strategy to practical corporate action in partnership with the IFC. • Core Objective: To operationalize sustainability by bridging the gap between national policy and the real economy, focusing on capacity building for corporate and personal banking customers. • Key Partnerships: Collaborative efforts with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as a knowledge partner to implement the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) methodology to assess financed emissions. • Strategic Pillars: • Climate Action: Development of a comprehensive Climate Transition Plan aligned with global best practices. • Risk Management: Technical focus on reducing climate risk exposure while unlocking green investment opportunities. • Value Creation: Enhancing business competitiveness and long-term resilience through responsible finance and innovation. • Sector Impact: The initiative targets corporate transformation across various industries, emphasizing that long-term economic outcomes are increasingly influenced by climate considerations and regulatory evolution. The bank continues to transition from a traditional financier to a catalyst for a resilient and inclusive economy through this structured three-pillar sustainability approach.
📈 Walmart to Purge Synthetic Dyes & Additives by 2027: Impact on Sri Lankan Food Exports
Walmart, the largest US retailer, has announced a landmark reformulation of its private label food brands. By January 2027, the company will eliminate 11 synthetic dyes and over 30 other ingredients—including specific preservatives and artificial sweeteners—across brands like Great Value and bettergoods. • Strategic Shift for Suppliers The move responds to 62% of shoppers demanding greater transparency. Walmart is currently collaborating with global suppliers to source natural alternatives. For Sri Lanka’s processed food sector, this represents both a compliance challenge and a significant market opportunity to leverage its reputation for "clean-label" products. • Sri Lankan Export Context (2025 Data) Food & Beverages: Export earnings grew 17.28% YoY to US$ 48.67 Mn in Dec 2025. Processed Food: A key sub-sector, rising 12.04% YoY in Dec 2025. US Market Value: Exports of vegetable, fruit, and nut food preparations to the US reached approximately US$ 51.18 Mn in 2024, with the US remaining a top-three market for Sri Lankan frozen food. • Key Takeaways for Sri Lankan Agribusiness The mandate covers 1,000+ products, including salty snacks and fruit preparations. Sri Lankan exporters in the coconut kernel products and processed fruit sectors must ensure formulations meet these "simpler ingredient" standards to maintain shelf space in Walmart’s US$ 462 Bn US operation. • Sector Focus This shift aligns with Sri Lanka's goal to diversify into high-value ICT/BPM and health-conscious food markets. The removal of ingredients like Titanium Dioxide and Potassium Bromate sets a new global standard for apparel & textiles style supply chain compliance in the food industry.
SLCPI Pledges Rs. 50 Million for Post-Disaster National Recovery 📈
The Sri Lanka Chamber of the Pharmaceutical Industry (SLCPI) has donated Rs. 50 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. The contribution was presented to Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa to support national recovery and essential infrastructure following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. • Financial Impact & Purpose The donation aims to ensure healthcare services continue without disruption. It joins a national fund that has now surpassed Rs. 8.5 billion in local contributions and US$ 9.49 million in foreign aid to address widespread infrastructure damage. • Sector Significance As the apex body for the pharmaceutical sector, SLCPI represents over 70 member companies (importers, manufacturers, and retailers). The industry is a cornerstone of the economy, collectively accounting for: Over 80% of the island’s private pharmaceutical market. 80,000+ direct jobs and nearly 400,000 indirect livelihoods. • Strategic Resilience The contribution supports the Ministry’s disaster management activities, focusing on restoring resilience across the health system while maintaining the supply of essential medicines during the recovery period. _Note: Figures based on provisional data as of January 2026._
## R I L Property Contributes Rs. 10 Mn to Post-Cyclone Recovery 📈
R I L Property PLC has formally donated Rs. 10 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. The contribution is directed toward relief and reconstruction efforts following the impact of Cyclone Ditwah. • Recipient: The ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, established to support communities affected by the recent natural disaster. • Official Handover: The donation was presented at the Presidential Secretariat to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake. • Corporate Representation: The delegation from the real estate and property sector included the company’s COO, CFO, and technical staff, signaling a commitment to national recovery and social responsibility. This contribution underscores the role of the private sector in supporting disaster resilience and infrastructure recovery within the national economy during crisis periods.
📈 Audit Firms Under Scrutiny Following Trainee Fatality
The tragic death of Chamith Darshana, a 27-year-old chartered accountancy trainee, has sparked nationwide debate over the intense working conditions within Sri Lanka’s audit & assurance sector. The incident has intensified calls for urgent regulatory reforms regarding the treatment of aspirant accountants. • Incident Overview: Chamith Darshana reportedly died in a late-night motorcycle accident while returning from a draining stock verification assignment. Allegations suggest he had worked consecutive late-night shifts without adequate rest, meals, or safe transport arrangements. • Systemic Issues: The tragedy has exposed long-standing grievances regarding the mandatory 3-year "Articleship" practical training required by CA Sri Lanka. Key concerns include: • Workload: Continuous late-night shifts and "extreme" pressure to meet tough corporate deadlines. • Compensation: Meagre training allowances, reported as low as Rs. 15,000/month, which fail to cover basic cost-of-living expenses in Colombo. • Exploitation: Trainees often feel unable to complain due to the mandatory requirement for supervising members to sign off on training records for professional qualification. • Sector Impact: Critics argue that current practices prioritise corporate budgets over the health and well-being of young professionals. There is growing pressure on the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA) and audit firm leadership to implement safer working environments, including budgeted meal and travel allowances (e.g., ride-hailing services) for late-night assignments.
Nature-Based Infrastructure Crucial to Avert Asia’s Water Crisis 📈
• The Challenge: While 2.7 billion people in Asia-Pacific have escaped extreme water insecurity since 2013, environmental water security is declining. Rapid urbanization and ecosystem degradation threaten decades of progress, leaving 4 billion people at risk of poor water quality and disasters. • Investment Gap: The region requires an estimated US$ 4 Tn in water, sanitation, and hygiene investment by 2040. Current public spending covers only 40%, highlighting an urgent need for private and concessional financing. • Economic Impact: Between 2013-2023, the region faced 244 major floods (41% of the global total). Failure to protect wetlands, rivers, and forests—which act as natural filters and buffers—forces governments to spend billions on disaster repairs. • Sector Focus: Integration of "green" solutions (mangroves, floodplains) with "gray" infrastructure (pipes, treatment plants) is essential for resilience. For countries like Sri Lanka, strengthening environmental governance and nature-based solutions is vital to mitigate droughts and floods affecting the agriculture and energy sectors. • Key Stat: In 30 surveyed economies, environmental protection performance has either stagnated or declined, making nature the "weakest link" in the region’s water security chain.
📈 Sri Lanka Eyes Global Climate Funds Post-Cyclone Ditwah
The SLYCAN Trust convened a High-Level Forum on Jan 20, 2026, to fast-track Sri Lanka’s access to the UN’s Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD). The forum follows the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Ditwah in late 2025, which has become a catalyst for strengthening national climate finance readiness. • Economic Impact: Cyclone Ditwah caused an estimated US$ 4.1 Bn in direct physical damage, equivalent to ~4% of Sri Lanka's GDP. Infrastructure damage alone is valued at US$ 1.73 Bn (42% of total). • Sector Breakdowns: • Agriculture: Suffered US$ 814 Mn in losses, threatening food security and rural livelihoods. • Housing: Over 129,000 homes damaged or destroyed, totaling ~US$ 985 Mn in losses. • MSMEs: Government plans LKR 95 Bn in support, including 3% concessional loans for recovery. • Funding Window: The FRLD opened its first call for funding on Dec 15, 2025, with a deadline of June 15, 2026. Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a primary candidate for these grants to address both economic and non-economic losses. • Key Priorities: Experts emphasized the need for robust "climate attribution" and institutional readiness to overcome technical barriers in accessing international disaster risk financing.
Jay Jay Mills Lanka Boosts Sustainability with 5.4 MW Solar Project 📈
Regen Renewables has completed a major multi-location industrial solar installation for apparel giant Jay Jay Mills Lanka, marking a significant step in the sector's green energy transition. • Project Scope: Total capacity of 5,476 kWp across multiple operational sites, including Awissawella, Kekanadura (Matara), Trincomalee, and Mannar. • Energy Impact: The project is projected to generate approximately 7.3 million kWh of clean energy annually. • Environmental Contribution: It will offset nearly 5,420 metric tons of CO₂ emissions each year, supporting Sri Lanka’s Enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). • Strategic Alignment: The initiative strengthens the apparel & textiles sector's ESG performance, leveraging renewable energy to enhance global competitiveness and reduce the carbon footprint of industrial manufacturing. • Site Breakdown: • Awissawella (4 sites): ~3,027 kWp • Matara (Kekanadura): 1,231 kWp • Trincomalee: 1,160 kWp • Mannar: 60 kWp This collaboration highlights the scalability of solar solutions for large-scale manufacturing and reinforces the industry's commitment to a low-carbon future.
Robert Webster to Lead Impact-Investing Executive Program in SL 📈
• Event Overview: Global impact-investing expert Robert Webster will lead a two-day Executive Immersion Program on February 9–10, 2026, at Shangri-La Colombo. The program serves as a strategic precursor to the Lanka Impact Investing Forum. • Key Objectives: Designed for senior professionals in commercial banking, investment firms, and DFIs, the sessions aim to integrate social and environmental impact into core investment decision-making. • Strategic Focus: • SME Development: Leveraging Webster’s 20+ years of experience in capital mobilization for small and medium enterprises across emerging markets. • Sustainable Finance: Focus on blended finance solutions and impact measurement frameworks to strengthen Sri Lanka’s inclusive finance ecosystem. • Institutional Integration: Training on mainstreaming impact across real-world investment portfolios. • Partnerships: Organised by the Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) and GSG Sri Lanka, with support from Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and the World University Service of Canada (WUSC). • Outcome: Participants will receive a joint certification, positioning them to engage in national efforts for sustainable capital allocation and impact-driven growth.
📈 CSE Contributes LKR 25 Mn to National Reconstruction
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) has donated LKR 25 million to the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund, a national initiative focused on restoring livelihoods and infrastructure following the devastation of Cyclone Ditwah. • Financial Contribution: A cheque for LKR 25 million was formally handed over to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake. • Leadership Presence: The donation was presented by CSE Chairman Mr. Dimuthu Abeyesekera, CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike, and Senior Vice Chairman Mr. Kusal Nissanka at the Presidential Secretariat. • National Context: The fund serves as the primary vehicle for post-disaster recovery. As of mid-January 2026, the fund has accumulated over LKR 5.7 billion from state institutions, the private sector, and international donors. • Recovery Scale: The government aims to mobilize significant capital for infrastructure (LKR 250 Bn) and business recovery (LKR 200 Bn) across sectors like agriculture and SMEs affected by the 2025 cyclone. _Note: Figures are based on current fund disclosures and provisional recovery estimates for 2026._
### Wedithalathive Nature Reserve Protections Restored 📈
The Government of Sri Lanka has officially rescinded the controversial Gazette (No. 2383/05) that sought to alter the boundaries of the Wedithalathive Nature Reserve. Following a legal challenge in the Supreme Court, the issuance of Gazette No. 2463/47 on November 21, 2025, effectively restores the reserve's original protected status. • Legal Landmark: The Supreme Court proceedings concluded on January 19, 2026, after the Attorney General confirmed the formal revocation. This follows a Fundamental Rights application filed by the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) in June 2024. • Conservation vs. Industry: The rescinded plan had proposed removing approximately 418 acres (from the 29,180-hectare reserve) to facilitate an aquaculture industrial park for commercial prawn farming. • Ecological Significance: The decision safeguards critical "blue carbon" ecosystems, including Sri Lanka’s largest continuous mangrove forest, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. These areas are vital for: • Protecting the habitat of the endangered dugong. • Supporting the artisanal fishing industry and blue swimmer crab exports. • Providing a natural buffer against storm surges and climate change. • Outcome: The withdrawal of the legal case marks a victory for environmental governance, ensuring that the Wedithalathive Nature Reserve remains intact under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance.
📈 Apparel Sector Pivots to Social Sustainability for Global Edge
Sri Lanka’s apparel & textiles industry is reinforcing its position as a leader in ethical manufacturing. At a high-level forum in Colombo, industry leaders and global experts emphasized that social sustainability is now a core economic strategy to navigate tightening regulations in the US and EU. • Strategic Shift: Sustainability has evolved from a marketing tool to a "competitive moat." Compliance with mandatory human rights due diligence is now essential for maintaining market access in major Western economies. • Traceability as Currency: Global brands are increasingly demanding real-time, data-driven transparency. Digital systems that integrate social audit findings (such as WRAP data) are becoming the "currency of trust" in supply-chain management. • Market Advantage: Having embraced programs like 'Garments Without Guilt' early on, Sri Lanka’s apparel sector is better positioned than many regional competitors to meet new transparency and traceability standards. • Economic Resilience: Industry experts noted that embedding sustainability into decision-making at every level is no longer an optional cost but a long-term investment to attract sustainable financing and reduce operational risks. • Sector Outlook: The move toward verified ethical sourcing is expected to strengthen Sri Lanka's export competitiveness, provided the industry continues to invest in robust, people-centered sustainability systems.
## CMA Sri Lanka Hosts Global Workshop on Sustainability Standards 📈
The Institute of Certified Management Accountants (CMA) Sri Lanka will host a high-profile workshop on Integrated Reporting and Sustainability Accounting Standards on January 22, 2026, at Cinnamon Grand, Colombo. • Global Leadership: The event features the patronage of Jean Bouquot, President of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), highlighting global recognition of Sri Lanka’s accounting profession. • Core Objectives: Focuses on enhancing transparency, sustainability reporting, and professional ethics to drive national economic development and create employment-ready skills. • Key Milestones: • Launch of the Technical and Judges Panel Report from the CMA Excellence in Integrated Reporting Awards 2025. • Special release of the CMA Management Accounting Journal. • Sector Best Practices: Case studies will be presented by award-winning entities, including Talawakelle Tea Estates PLC, Softlogic Life Insurance, Hayleys Fabric, and LB Finance. • Future Talent: Includes an exclusive interaction session for students to engage with the IFAC President on global career pathways in ICT/BPM and finance sectors. This initiative reinforces the role of management accounting in fostering trust and sustainable corporate reporting within the Sri Lankan private and public sectors.
📈 Rs. 2.5 Billion Public-Private Initiative to Restore Beira Lake Launched
HSBC Sri Lanka, in partnership with the Western Province Governor’s office, has launched "Clean Waterways," a landmark Rs. 2.5 billion project to rehabilitate Colombo’s iconic Beira Lake over three years. • Project Scope & Funding The initiative is a first-of-its-kind public-private partnership (PPP) between HSBC, the Beira Lake Restoration Task Force, Clean Ocean Force, and the Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation. The Rs. 2.5 billion plan focuses on restoring ecological health to support tourism and urban recreation. • Technological & Operational Highlights Solar-Powered Cleaning: Deployment of two large solar-powered, battery-operated boats capable of removing 3,000 kg of floating waste daily. Water Treatment: Installation of water fountains and aerators to boost oxygen levels and revive aquatic life. Dredging: Sediment removal is scheduled to commence within the next three months. • Infrastructure & Enforcement Sewage Management: Authorities confirmed 192 illegal discharge points were identified. A critical leak near Cinnamon Life has been repaired; two others are under remediation. Stricter Monitoring: Western Province Governor Hanif Yoosuf announced a crackdown on polluters via the environmental police. • Strategic Impact This restoration is vital for Colombo's real estate and leisure sectors. HSBC will leverage technical expertise from its Hong Kong waterway projects to ensure the lake eventually meets safety standards for swimming and water sports.
WNPS Challenges Mannar Wind Power Project Over Legal & Eco-Risks 📈
The Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) has urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to intervene in the recently commissioned Mannar Island wind power project, citing "patent violations" of environmental laws and severe ecological threats. • Environmental Impact: The project sits within the Central Asian Flyway, a global migratory corridor for millions of birds. Turbines are reportedly placed in "very high-risk" zones despite warnings from official avifaunal studies, threatening endangered species and biodiversity in the Vankalai Sanctuary and Adam’s Bridge Marine National Park. • Legal Violations: WNPS alleges the project bypassed mandatory approvals required under the National Environmental Act and the Coast Conservation Act. They claim turbines were installed in prohibited areas, undermining the rule of law in infrastructure development. • Socio-Economic Concerns: Construction has reportedly increased flood vulnerability on the island, directly impacting local fishing communities and livelihoods. • The Demand: While supporting renewable energy, WNPS calls for an immediate legal review and corrective measures to ensure the transition does not come at the cost of Sri Lanka’s most fragile ecosystems.
📈 TikTok Q3 2025 Safety Report: Aggressive AI Enforcement
TikTok's latest Community Guidelines Enforcement Report (July–Sept 2025) highlights a massive scale of automated moderation, reflecting the platform's focus on digital safety and integrity in the ICT/BPM and digital media landscape. • Global Content Removal: A total of 204.53 million videos were removed (0.7% of all uploads). • Automation & Speed: 99.3% of removals were proactive, with 94.8% of flagged content taken down within 24 hours. Automated technologies handled 186.6 million of these cases. • Account Integrity: The platform purged 118.61 million fake accounts and 22.22 million accounts suspected of being under the age of 13. • Violation Breakdown: Edited Media & AI-Generated Content: 34.4% (Top category) Misinformation: 32.9% Sensitive/Mature Themes: 30.0% Safety & Civility: 15.7% Privacy & Security: 2.7% The high volume of removals for AI-generated content and misinformation underscores the evolving challenges for digital platforms in maintaining content authenticity, a critical factor for brands and businesses leveraging the digital economy.
📈 Sampath Bank Empowers 200 Women-Led Startups
Sampath Bank PLC has reached a key milestone in its Sampath Saviya "200 Women Startups Development Program," hosting a national-level pitching event to scale up female-led enterprises. The initiative aims to drive inclusive economic growth and stability during Sri Lanka’s recovery. • Overall Scope: Targeting the development of 200 women-led businesses across Sri Lanka to overcome barriers in finance, technical expertise, and market access. • Program Structure: • Phase 1: Partnered with the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura to provide training in financial literacy and business planning to over 100 entrepreneurs. • Phase 2: Collaborated with the Ceylon Entrepreneurs’ Club for industry mentorship and technical guidance. • Key Outcomes: • Aspiring entrepreneurs presented business ideas to expert panels evaluating innovation and sustainability. • Top-performing startups will secure access to critical seed and equity funding. • Focus remains on sectors that boost household income and employment generation nationwide. The program reflects a strategic investment in sustainable entrepreneurship, addressing systemic gaps to integrate more women into the formal national economy.
### Think Tank Report: Sri Lankan EIAs Failing on Social Impact Reporting 📈
A new study by the Centre for a Smart Future (CSF) reveals critical gaps in how Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) in Sri Lanka evaluate and communicate social risks. Despite being a legal requirement, the "social dimension" is frequently overlooked, threatening project accountability and public trust. • Study Scope & Methodology The report, titled _'Assessing the Assessments,'_ is the first systematic review of its kind in Sri Lanka. It analyzed 250 EIA reports published between 1991 and 2025 against national guidelines and specific Terms of Reference (ToRs). • Key Findings & Systemic Issues • Frequent Gaps: Major inconsistencies in reporting methods and data sources. • Inaccessibility: Presentation and language styles are often too technical or complex for the affected public to understand. • ToR Inconsistency: Quality expectations vary significantly across different project-specific guidelines. • Vulnerability: Poor reporting fails to protect communities already exposed to environmental and economic risks. • Economic & Development Implications The study emphasizes that high-quality social impact reporting is vital for: • Investor Confidence: Reducing risks of conflict and litigation. • Climate Resilience: Ensuring infrastructure can withstand heightened environmental hazards. • Infrastructure Delivery: Accelerating sustainable investment through better decision-making. _Note: Findings are based on CSF's analysis of historical and provisional data up to early 2026._
### 📈 Pyramid Wilmar Concludes National 'ChefsHunt' Initiative
Pyramid Wilmar, a leader in Sri Lanka's food manufacturing sector, has successfully completed its island-wide ChefsHunt program. The initiative, marking the company’s 20th anniversary, focused on professionalizing the local foodservice industry through youth empowerment and structured vocational training. • Program Scale & Reach Participants: Over 1,000 young culinary enthusiasts aged 18–25. Locations: Conducted across 10 regional hubs from Jaffna to Colombo. Partnerships: Collaborative effort with Sirasa Newsfirst, the Chefs Guild of Lanka, and the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA). • Educational Impact Scholarships: 25 top-tier talents awarded full scholarships for professional training. Certification: Qualification leads to an NVQ Level 4 Certificate from the M W Institute of Culinary Arts. Curriculum: Focuses on kitchen efficiency, food consistency, and modern professionalism to bridge existing skill gaps in the hospitality sector. • Strategic Importance Industry Role: The program aligns with Pyramid Wilmar's role as a major provider of edible oils, fats, and bakery solutions (e.g., Fortune, Masterline). Economic Contribution: By fostering a qualified workforce, the initiative supports the diversification of Sri Lanka’s tourism and service economy, ensuring a sustainable talent pipeline for the future. _Note: Summary based on news reports as of January 17, 2026._
📈 Headline: "Clean Sri Lanka" Vision Faces Scrutiny Amid Rs. 6,500 Mn Budget Boost
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s flagship Clean Sri Lanka (CSL) program enters 2026 with a significantly expanded budget, aiming to move beyond environmental cleanup to a broader "social contract" of transparency and integrity. • Overall Figures & Budget • 2026 Allocation: Rs. 6,500 million (up from Rs. 5,000 million in 2025). • Projects: Funding dozens of initiatives across social, ethical, and environmental pillars. • Economic Context: Framed as a response to the 2022 economic collapse fueled by public demand for accountability. • Sector Breakdowns & Initiatives • Environment: Focus on beach conservation, waste management, and biodiversity (notably reducing human-elephant conflict). • Governance: Implementation of the Anti-Corruption Act (2023) and the Proceeds of Crime Act (2025) to recover illicit assets. • Public Safety: Dedicated awareness campaigns for food safety and road safety. • Critical Observations • Strategic Overreach: Analysts warn that a focus on "beautification" may dilute the core mission of dismantling systemic corruption. • Institutional Gaps: Transparency International Sri Lanka reports "weak implementation" of new laws and structural flaws in anti-corruption frameworks. • Proposed Recalibration: Experts suggest a mandate shift where 60% of the CSL budget is dedicated to governance, including a centralized electronic asset declaration system. Based on provisional 2026 budget data and recent policy launches.
🕊️ Prof. Mohan Munasinghe Launches World Peacekeeper Movement
Sri Lankan Nobel Laureate Prof. Mohan Munasinghe joined spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Ravi Shankar and philanthropist Dr. Huzaifa Khorakiwala to launch the World Peacekeeper Movement in Bangalore on January 11, 2026. • Strategic Vision: Prof. Munasinghe emphasized his "Sustainable Development Triangle" (balancing economic, social, and environmental goals) and urged the global community to bridge the gap between BRICS+ and Western nations to avoid global conflict. • Upcoming Milestones: The initiative will host the "Billionaires for Peace Conclave" in Dubai (early April 2026), bringing together Nobel Laureates and philanthropists. • Local Institutional Impact: Prof. Munasinghe, Chairman of the Colombo-based MIND Group and author of the "Sustainable Sri Lanka 2030 Vision," continues to position Sri Lankan expertise at the forefront of global climate and sustainable development policy. • Global Collaboration: The movement integrates the Art of Living’s reach (180+ countries) and the Wockhardt Foundation’s humanitarian network to promote internal and external peace.
## HNB & Gaia Green Energy Partner for Solar Financing 📈
Hatton National Bank (HNB) has signed a strategic MoU with Gaia Green Energy Holdings Ltd to provide affordable financing for solar energy systems, targeting both households and the SME sector. • Key Provisions: HNB will offer specialized personal and SME loans to finance solar electricity generation equipment, aiming to reduce the initial financial barrier for renewable energy adoption. • Strategic Benefits: Gaia Green Energy will provide exclusive discounts on solar equipment and products specifically for HNB customers. The initiative focuses on reducing carbon footprints and supporting Sri Lanka’s transition to clean energy. The partnership aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for Affordable and Clean Energy and Climate Action. • Market Impact: This collaboration enhances financial inclusion for green tech, supporting the ICT/BPM and manufacturing sectors by lowering long-term energy costs for small businesses.
📈 Sarvodaya Development Finance Debuts Sustainability Bonds on Luxembourg Stock Exchange
The Luxembourg Stock Exchange (LuxSE) has officially listed two sustainability bonds from Sri Lanka’s Sarvodaya Development Finance (SDF) on its Green Exchange (LGX) platform. • Total Value & Maturity: The two bonds total Rs. 2 billion with a 5-year tenure. • Green Financing: Funds are earmarked for environmentally focused sectors, specifically renewable energy and clean transportation. • Social Impact: A significant portion will target socioeconomic advancement, including employment generation, women empowerment, affordable housing, and food security. • Strategic Milestone: This international recognition follows a high-level delegation visit to LuxSE, marking a major step for the Sri Lankan microfinance and development banking sector in accessing global sustainable capital markets. Based on official listing data.
📈 NDB Joins 'Revive Sri Lanka' to Bolster MSME Recovery NDB Bank has reaffirmed its support for Sri Lanka’s SME and MSME sectors by participating in the ‘Revive Sri Lanka - Rising Stronger’ initiative. The program, held in Kandy, focused on restoring livelihoods for enterprises severely impacted by the recent Cyclone Ditwa.
• Key Participation & Scale Organized by Kandy City Centre (KCC), the event drew over 800 participants, including entrepreneurs and key stakeholders. The initiative saw unified backing from major financial institutions, including Bank of Ceylon, Commercial Bank, People’s Bank, Sampath Bank, DFCC, and HNB. • National Economic Impact The MSME sector contributes over 52% of Sri Lanka's GDP and represents 75% of the entrepreneurial base. The forum served as a critical platform to address immediate liquidity and recovery challenges for these businesses, which are vital for regional employment. • Institutional Support The event was attended by CBSL Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, underscoring the priority of public-private collaboration. NDB emphasized its commitment to provide: Tailored financial solutions for disaster-hit businesses. Advisory support to restore entrepreneurial confidence. Focus on inclusive growth within the ICT/BPM and manufacturing sub-sectors. _Note: Data based on provincial event briefings following Cyclone Ditwa recovery efforts._
## Impact Investing: A New Frontier for Sri Lanka’s Recovery 📈
Sri Lanka faces a critical rebuilding phase following the devastating Cyclone Ditwah in late 2025, which caused an estimated US$ 4.1 Bn in direct damages (approx. 4% of GDP). Impact investing is emerging as a vital tool to bridge the funding gap, aligning private capital with climate resilience and inclusive growth. • Economic Impact of Cyclone Ditwah Based on provisional data, the cyclone affected 2 million people and damaged 15,000+ homes. Critical infrastructure losses reached US$ 1.74 Bn, while agriculture suffered US$ 814 Mn in damages, threatening food security and rural livelihoods. • Priority Investment Sectors Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Focusing on decentralized renewable energy and resilient transport to withstand future shocks. Agriculture & Value Chains: Investments in cold storage and regenerative inputs to stabilize tea and paddy sectors. SME Finance: Providing recovery capital via revenue-based financing for the hard-hit MSME sector, essential for employment. Healthcare & ICT: Scaling affordable digital health and ICT/BPM solutions to improve service access in underserved regions. • Structural Challenges & Strategy Macroeconomic volatility and policy uncertainty remain barriers. Experts advocate for a shift from pure equity to blended finance and debt structures tailored to local risks. Success hinges on credible impact measurement and building an "investment-ready" pipeline of local enterprises. • Upcoming Milestone The Lanka Impact Investment Summit 2026 (Feb 10-12, Colombo) aims to formalize this ecosystem, shifting the focus from "soft aid" to disciplined, commercially grounded capital for national resilience.
📈 President Launches 50MW HayWind Project in Mannar
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake officially launched the construction of the HayWind wind power project in Mannar today, marking a milestone in Sri Lanka's transition toward net-zero emissions by 2050. • Project Scope: Developed by Hayleys Fentons, the 50MW plant will feature 10 turbines, generating an estimated 207 million kWh annually. • Cost Efficiency: The project sets a record for the lowest wind power tariff in Sri Lanka at US$ 0.0465 per unit (approx. LKR 14.37). • Timeline: Construction is scheduled for completion by March 2027. • Renewable Energy Targets: Sri Lanka is significantly outpacing its green energy goals. For the 2025–2029 period, the government has secured agreements for 12,789.5 MW, exceeding the original plan of 9,759 MW. • Regional Impact: Parallel to the energy infrastructure, the government is investing nearly Rs. 10 million in Mannar for canal dredging, flood mitigation, safe drinking water for 200 households, and smart classrooms. The initiative underscores a shift toward renewable energy as a driver for both national grid stability and regional socio-economic development.
Hemas Marks Milestone with 75th Piyawara Preschool in Homagama 🏫
• CSR & Education: Hemas Outreach Foundation reached a landmark by opening its 75th Piyawara preschool, a key initiative in Sri Lanka’s early childhood development sector. • Partnerships: The facility was established in collaboration with the Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha and Fly & Help, Germany, supported by the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs. • Impact & Scale: Over 23 years, the program has reached more than 100,000 children. Currently, 4,000+ preschoolers benefit annually from the model. • Holistic Approach: Beyond infrastructure, the initiative focuses on teacher upskilling, child protection, and support for children with disabilities, strengthening the national education ecosystem. • Future Outlook: With 75 schools now operational and more in the pipeline, the project remains a vital contributor to human capital development and employment readiness in underserved communities.
Hemas Marks Milestone with 75th Piyawara Preschool in Homagama 🏫
• CSR & Education: Hemas Outreach Foundation reached a landmark by opening its 75th Piyawara preschool, a key initiative in Sri Lanka’s early childhood development sector. • Partnerships: The facility was established in collaboration with the Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha and Fly & Help, Germany, supported by the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs. • Impact & Scale: Over 23 years, the program has reached more than 100,000 children. Currently, 4,000+ preschoolers benefit annually from the model. • Holistic Approach: Beyond infrastructure, the initiative focuses on teacher upskilling, child protection, and support for children with disabilities, strengthening the national education ecosystem. • Future Outlook: With 75 schools now operational and more in the pipeline, the project remains a vital contributor to human capital development and employment readiness in underserved communities.
AMW Supports 1,000 Families Affected by Cyclone Ditwah 📈
Associated Motorways Ltd. (AMW) has partnered with the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) to provide urgent humanitarian aid following the recent Ditwah Cyclone, which impacted over 2.2 million people across Sri Lanka. • Relief Scope: The initiative targets 1,000 affected families, providing essential recovery packs to address immediate survival needs. • Pack Contents: Each consignment includes essential food items, basic medication, and daily necessities. • Sector Impact: This private-sector intervention supports national recovery after the cyclone caused widespread damage, including over 1,200 landslides and the displacement of 34,000+ individuals. • National Context: The assistance complements state efforts, such as the government’s Rs. 500,000 grant per affected household, aimed at stabilizing communities and local economies during the recovery period. AMW, a key player in the automotive and transportation sector, emphasized that this CSR effort is part of its long-term commitment to community resilience and national disaster response.
📈 JKF & Victoria Golf Resort Vest Nithulemada Model Pre-School
John Keells Foundation (JKF) and Rajawella Holding’s Victoria Golf Resort (VGR) have officially vested the Nithulemada Model Pre-School in Kandy. The project addresses a two-decade infrastructure gap for children aged 3–5 in the Medadumbara region. • Overall Impact: The facility serves as the first government-run pre-school in the Medadumbara Pradeshiya Sabha. It provides a permanent, centrally located learning environment for children of diverse ethnicities, following years of temporary operations. • Project Timeline & Challenges: Initiated in 2020 under the John Keells Praja Shakthi initiative, construction was completed in October 2025. The project successfully navigated delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the national economic crisis, and adverse weather conditions. • Sector Focus: • Education: Focuses on equitable access to early childhood development to shape disciplined, responsible citizens. • Social Cohesion: Aimed at fostering unity among Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities to empower a singular Sri Lankan identity. • Tourism & CSR: The project highlights the hospitality and leisure sector’s role (via VGR) in local community empowerment. • Key Stakeholders: The vesting was attended by the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, K.D. Lalkantha, and senior John Keells Group executives. The facility is expected to serve as a national model for future government-run pre-schools.
📈 JAT Holdings Uplifts Local Painter Community with NVQ Certification
JAT Holdings PLC recently concluded its 6th ‘Pintharu Abhiman’ convocation, granting NVQ Level 3 certification to over 800 painters. The initiative, held in partnership with the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA), aims to professionalize the construction and wood coatings sector. ### Key Highlights: • Upskilling Reach: Over 800 painters recognized with internationally valid professional qualifications. • Efficiency: Streamlined the certification process from 6 months to a 3-day high-impact assessment model. • Inclusive Growth: Recognized 4 female painters, encouraging gender diversification in a male-dominated trade. • Entrepreneurship: Approximately 20% (1 in 5) of certified painters have successfully launched their own small businesses. ### Socio-Economic Impact: • Livelihoods: Research shows 76% of participants reported improved standards of living, while 90% noted increased personal confidence. • Industry Standards: By absorbing all certification costs, JAT has removed financial barriers to formal education for the SME and skilled labor segments. • Economic Context: The programme supports national skills development, enhancing the employability of the local workforce for both domestic and overseas opportunities. _Note: Impact data based on research conducted amongst NVQ qualified participants._
Sri Lanka Embassy in Riyadh Dispatches 3rd Relief Shipment for Cyclone Victims 🚢
• Relief Shipment: The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh dispatched a third 40-foot container on 8 January 2026, containing essential items valued at SAR 71,000 (US$ 19,000) to aid victims of the Ditwah cyclone. • Financial Contributions: Sri Lankan expatriates and well-wishers in Saudi Arabia contributed SAR 300,000 (US$ 80,000) to the Nation Building Fund to support national recovery and reconstruction efforts. • Community Support: The shipment includes dry rations, clothing, stationery, and sanitary items donated by the Sri Lankan community. Trico Cargo facilitated the transport on a complimentary basis as part of its social responsibility. • Previous Assistance: This follows two prior consignments, including essential goods worth US$ 11,000 and 8 high-capacity tower light generators valued at US$ 43,000 donated by Energia LLC to the Disaster Management Centre. • Impact: These contributions highlight the critical role of the Sri Lankan diaspora in supporting disaster relief and national resilience during humanitarian crises. 📈
### 📉 SLMMF Provides Relief to Journalists Hit by Cyclone Ditwah
The Sri Lanka Muslim Media Forum (SLMMF) has completed a multi-phase humanitarian mission to support 36 journalists nationwide following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Ditwah. The initiative addresses the often-overlooked economic vulnerability of media professionals during national disasters. • Overall Relief Impact The programme provided essential aid to journalists across 7 districts: Colombo, Kandy, Puttalam, Gampaha, Badulla, Kegalle, and Anuradhapura. Support included financial assistance, professional equipment replacement, and essential household goods. • Sectoral & Economic Context Cyclone Ditwah (Nov 2025) caused an estimated US$ 4.1 Bn (4% of GDP) in direct physical damage. While the agriculture sector suffered US$ 814 Mn in losses, the media sector faced significant operational disruptions. SLMMF highlighted that journalists—integral to the ICT/BPM and information landscape—suffered personal livelihood and equipment losses while serving as first responders. • Inclusivity & Support Network • Beneficiaries: 36 journalists from Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim communities. • Key Partners: Qatar Charity Sri Lanka, JJ Foundation, and the Colombo District Mosques Federation. • Recovery: Replacement of professional tools was prioritized for media personnel in flood-hit Colombo to ensure the resumption of essential reporting duties. _Note: Figures based on SLMMF reports and World Bank GRADE provisional data._
Shing Kwan Group Donates $ 100,000 for National Disaster Recovery 📈
Singapore-based Shing Kwan Group (SKG), the majority shareholder of Overseas Realty (Ceylon) PLC, has donated US$ 100,000 to the Rebuild Sri Lanka Fund. The contribution supports recovery efforts following the widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. • Key Financials & Support: • Total Donation: US$ 100,000 (approx. LKR 30 Mn+). • Purpose: Restoring livelihoods and rebuilding essential infrastructure. • Donor Profile: Leading property holding and investment firm from Singapore with a 60-year association with Sri Lanka. • Sector Impact & Contributions: • Real Estate & Infrastructure: SKG is the principal backer behind iconic BOI-approved developments, including the World Trade Center (WTC) Colombo and Havelock City. • Foreign Direct Investment: The group is recognized as a consistent contributor of substantial FDI to the Sri Lankan economy. • Economic Context: • Cyclone Ditwah (late 2025) caused an estimated economic loss of US$ 0.7–1.07 Bn (approx. 0.8–1.0% of GDP). • The Rebuild Sri Lanka Fund has now surpassed US$ 11 Mn in total contributions from local and international donors. _Summary based on official corporate and provisional government data as of Jan 14, 2026._
📈 Union Assurance Suwamaga Report 2025: Addressing Sri Lanka's Diabetes Crisis
Union Assurance has released its inaugural Impact Report for the Suwamaga initiative, a nationwide CSR program tackling the rising prevalence of diabetes in Sri Lanka from June 2024 to August 2025. • Program Reach & Coverage The initiative surpassed its initial target of 15,000 screenings by 155%, providing free medical services to 23,000+ lives. Screenings were conducted across all 25 districts at 263 locations via a specialized Mobile Screening Unit. • Critical Health Insights The report reveals alarming data regarding the "silent killer" in the local healthcare sector: Diabetes Prevalence: Of the 13% of beneficiaries referred for advanced HbA1c testing, 76% were confirmed to be in the diabetes stage. New Diagnoses: Approximately 3% of the total beneficiaries were diagnosed with diabetes for the first time through this program. Behavioral Change: 71% of participants reported making positive lifestyle modifications following the screenings and personalized advice. • Strategic Economic Context By focusing on early detection and preventative healthcare, the program aims to reduce the long-term economic burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) on the national insurance and public health systems. The findings advocate for stronger public-private partnerships to safeguard the productivity of the national workforce.
## 🏥 Swiss Foundation Donates Rs. 200Mn Angiography System to Karapitiya Hospital
A state-of-the-art Philips Azurion 3M12 angiography machine, donated by the Heart Clinic Foundation of Switzerland, was officially handed over to the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital to bolster healthcare infrastructure in the Southern Province. • Investment & Logistics: The system is valued at over Rs. 200 million. The Ministry of Health contributed Rs. 55 million in customs duties, while the hospital invested Rs. 25 million for infrastructure to house the unit. • Operational Capacity: This marks the second operational Cardiac Catheterisation laboratory at Karapitiya, making it the only state hospital outside Colombo with two functioning Cath labs. • Impact on Healthcare: Service Reach: Serves a population of 2.7 million in the Southern Province, plus residents of Sabaragamuwa and Uva. Waitlist Reduction: Expected to reduce the current cardiac treatment waiting list to approximately one year (down from longer periods). Medical Advancement: Allows for minimally invasive interventions, helping patients avoid high-risk open-heart surgeries. • National Context: While there are 15 angiography machines in the government sector, only about 8 are typically operational. The Ministry of Health aims to bridge this gap by acquiring 11 additional machines next year to strengthen the medical services sector and improve human capital health. • Strategic Partnership: The donation was facilitated through collaboration between the Heart Clinic Foundation of Zurich and the Swiss Ambassador to Sri Lanka, highlighting the role of international grants in supporting Sri Lanka’s social infrastructure.
📈 Amba Yaalu Kandalama Marks One Year of Women-Led Hospitality
Amba Yaalu Kandalama, Sri Lanka’s first all-women-run hotel, celebrates its first anniversary, marking a significant milestone in diversifying the hospitality sector. Launched by Thema Collection, the initiative addresses a major labor gap where women comprise only 10% of the formal tourism workforce despite being 52.8% of the population. • Workforce & Empowerment • Team Composition: 100% women-led and operated across all departments. • Local Impact: 20% of the staff recruited directly from surrounding villages. • Leadership: Headed by Resort Manager Jeewanthi Adhikari, providing long-term career paths for local women in a male-dominated field. • Economic Inclusion & Supply Chain • Sector Support: Actively sources from women-led suppliers for flowers, mushrooms, and spices. • Diversification: Focuses on inclusive growth by integrating rural communities into the tourism value chain. • Sustainability & Infrastructure • Energy: Powered by a 140.40kW rooftop solar farm (157 panels) covering 12,000 sq. ft. • Natural Assets: Located on a 33-room property featuring an organic mango plantation with over 450 trees. The resort enters its second year positioned as a catalyst for changing the national narrative on female participation in hospitality, bridging the gap between high female literacy and low industry involvement.
### SDF to Issue Sri Lanka’s First Rs. 2 Bn Social Orange Bond 📈
Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC (SDF) has received Central Bank approval to issue a 5-year, listed, senior redeemable Social Orange Bond valued at up to Rs. 2 billion. This landmark issuance marks a significant step in sustainable finance within the local capital market. • Issue Structure: The initial tranche consists of 10 million bonds (Rs. 1 billion), with an option to issue an additional 10 million bonds based on investor demand. • Orange Bond Focus: A specialized category of Social Bonds where proceeds are strictly dedicated to gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. • Target Impact: Funds will be utilized to finance women-led enterprises, promote inclusive employment, and improve access to essential services for women. • Market Listing: The bonds will be listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) as high-yield instruments, linking capital markets directly to measurable social outcomes. _The move follows SDF’s previous milestone as the first sustainability bond issuer in Sri Lanka, further diversifying the country’s MSME and development finance landscape._
📈 Seylan Bank Donates Rs. 50 Mn to ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund
• Seylan Bank has contributed Rs. 50 million to the Government’s 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund to support recovery efforts following the Diṭwah cyclone. • The donation is directed toward providing relief and infrastructure support to communities severely affected by the recent natural disaster. • The contribution was formally presented by Seylan Bank CEO Ramesh Jayasekera to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, at the Presidential Secretariat. • This initiative highlights the banking and finance sector’s role in national disaster response and social responsibility during economic recovery.
SMIB Contributes Rs. 5 Mn to ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund 📈
• State Mortgage and Investment Bank (SMIB) has donated Rs. 5 million to the national ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. • The contribution was formally presented at the Presidential Secretariat to the Secretary to the President. • This move underscores the participation of the banking and financial services sector in supporting state-led recovery and development initiatives. • Key representatives present included the SMIB Chairman and the General Manager/CEO, marking a commitment from the state-owned enterprise (SOE) to national economic rebuilding efforts.
CHMA Donates Rs. 5 Million to 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund 📈
The Ceylon Hardware Merchants Association (CHMA) has contributed Rs. 5 million to the government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund to support recovery efforts following the Diṭwah cyclone. • Contribution Details: A financial donation of Rs. 5 million was provided to assist communities affected by natural disaster. • Handover: The cheque was formally presented to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, by CHMA Chairman T. Amirthalingam at the Presidential Secretariat. • Industry Involvement: The contribution highlights the involvement of the construction and hardware supply sector in national disaster relief and infrastructure recovery. • Key Participants: The delegation included Vice Chairman S. Shanmuganathan, Secretary H. M. Jayaweera, and member K. Pathmanathan. This move underscores the private sector's role in supporting state-led social welfare and rehabilitation initiatives during economic or environmental crises.
## 📈 Cinnamon Hotels Drives Gender Inclusion in Hospitality
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts reports a significant push toward gender parity, outperforming the national industry average in a bid to reshape Sri Lanka's workforce dynamics. • Workforce Representation: Female participation has reached 19.5%, nearly double the national hospitality average of roughly 10%. The group is on track for its 2030 target of 30% representation. • Leadership Benchmarks: Women now hold 22% of leadership positions across the group, aiming to dismantle social stigmas and misconceptions surrounding careers in tourism for women. • Strategic Appointments: The group appointed its second female Resort Manager, Thanuja Mudiyanselage, at Trinco Blu by Cinnamon. This move emphasizes leadership pathways for local talent and focuses on mentoring female staff and single mothers. • Institutional Impact: Through the EmpowerHER Network and specialized workshops, the group is transitioning the hospitality sector into a safe, secure, and empowering environment, fostering essential skill development and community engagement. _Data based on latest corporate disclosures as of January 2026._
India’s Maha Bodhi Society Donates Rs. 10M for Cyclone Relief 📈
• Humanitarian Aid: The Maha Bodhi Society of India contributed Rs. 10 million to the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, targeting recovery efforts following Cyclone Ditwah. • Recovery Focus: The funds are earmarked to restore livelihoods and rebuild infrastructure across the country following the devastation caused by the natural disaster. • Formal Handover: The donation was presented at the Presidential Secretariat to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, by representatives of the Anagarika Dharmapala Trust. • Context: This contribution highlights the ongoing role of religious and social organizations in supporting national recovery and social stability during economic and environmental crises.
UK Diaspora Donates £ 25,000 for Disaster Recovery 📈
British Sri Lankan Muslim organisations have collectively donated £ 25,000 (approx. Rs 10.5 Million) to support the Sri Lankan Government’s National Rebuilding and Disaster Recovery Initiative following Cyclone DITWA, flooding, and landslides. • Financial Contributions: - Direct Donation: £ 25,000 handed over to the Sri Lanka High Commission in London. - Total UK Fundraising: Estimated over £ 250,000 raised by various UK-based Muslim organisations for broader relief and rehabilitation projects. • Key Highlights: - The initiative was led by the Council of Sri Lankan Muslim Organisations (COSMOS UK) alongside 24 other community groups and sports clubs. - Focus areas include emergency relief, long-term rehabilitation, and national recovery efforts. - Reaffirmed support for the High Commission’s “Your Tenner, Their Tomorrow” campaign to encourage wider diaspora participation. • National Impact: This contribution highlights the critical role of the diaspora in supporting Sri Lanka’s humanitarian and development needs during national calamities, transcending racial and religious lines to aid recovery and infrastructure rebuilding.
Korea Exim Bank Pledges US$ 50,000 for Cyclone Relief 📈
The Export–Import Bank of Korea (Korea Exim) has committed US$ 50,000 in humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka to support recovery efforts following Cyclone Ditwah. • Aid Overview The funds were pledged following a request by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and will be channeled through the Korea Red Cross. The assistance targets immediate relief and the restoration of essential public facilities and infrastructure. • Impact & Scale The cyclone has affected over 1 million people across the island. Relief is specifically aimed at families currently in temporary accommodation and those suffering from widespread devastation to livelihoods. • Bilateral Context This pledge brings the total humanitarian assistance from the Republic of Korea to US$ 550,000 for this crisis. Korea Exim Bank Chairman Kiyeon Hwang emphasized the move as a mark of solidarity and a reflection of the long-standing partnership between the two nations. • Regional Focus Based on provisional data, the broader Korean aid package (including WFP contributions) supports heavily impacted districts such as Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Kurunegala, and Trincomalee.
JKH Leads Rs. 400 Mn Corporate Contribution to ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund 📈
A consortium led by John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) has contributed Rs. 400 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. The fund was established to facilitate recovery and relief for communities devastated by Cyclone Ditwah. • Financial Breakdown of Contributions: South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT): Rs. 100 million Nations Trust Bank (NTB): Rs. 100 million Lanka Marine Services: Rs. 50 million Jaykay Marketing Services (Keells): Rs. 50 million Union Assurance: Rs. 50 million Ceylon Cold Stores (Elephant House): Rs. 50 million • Strategic Impact: The contribution supports national recovery following a disaster that caused an estimated US$ 4.1 billion in direct physical damage (approx. 4% of GDP). The logistics, banking, and retail sectors are leading this private-sector push to restore essential infrastructure and livelihoods. • Governance & Transparency: The cheques were handed over to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake. The fund is managed by a joint public-private committee to ensure transparent resource allocation for high-priority reconstruction projects.
📈 Link Natural & Sampath Bank Partner for Agri-Empowerment
Link Natural Products and Sampath Bank have entered a strategic partnership under the Sampath Saviya program to boost rural economies through sustainable medicinal crop cultivation. • Strategic Focus: The initiative targets the development of model agricultural hubs in Kohombagaswewa and Ambulgaswewa, focusing on high-value crops like Katuwelbatu and Elabatu. • Market Security: A key feature is a guaranteed buyback agreement established by Link Natural, providing farmers with predictable income and addressing the critical challenge of market access. • Technical Support: Farmers will receive specialized training in crop management, technical guidance, and supervision from the Link Natural Agriculture Division to ensure quality and compliance. • Economic Impact: Beyond agriculture, the project aims to foster women’s empowerment and youth engagement, while creating long-term income through a medicinal perennial planting project. • Roles: Sampath Bank will oversee project implementation and facilitate communication with local farmers' associations, while both parties monitor progress to ensure sustainable growth in herbal & ayurvedic supply chains. _Note: Partnership formalised via MoU; project expansion to additional rural areas is planned following the pilot phase._
📈 Sri Lanka’s Post-Cyclone Recovery: Speed vs. Resilience
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s 2026 New Year message emphasized recreating a "far better" nation following the devastating Cyclone Ditwah. However, analysts warn against prioritizing rapid restoration over long-term structural integrity. • Economic Impact & Damage Provisional data from the World Bank’s GRADE report estimates direct physical damage at US$ 4.10 Bn (~4% of GDP). Total recovery and reconstruction needs are projected to reach up to US$ 7.00 Bn. The Central Province was hardest hit, with Kandy district alone suffering US$ 689 Mn in losses. • Infrastructure & Connectivity Infrastructure accounts for the largest share of damage at US$ 1.74 Bn (42% of total). While 99% of the 200+ damaged roads were reportedly restored within a month, experts question if these "quick fixes" meet international geotechnical and safety standards to withstand future climate risks. • Sector Breakdowns • Agriculture: US$ 814 Mn in losses; 20% of Maha season paddy sowings damaged, affecting 227,000 farmers. • Housing: US$ 985 Mn damage; 15,000+ homes destroyed. • Transport: Fixing railway tracks alone is estimated to cost over US$ 330 Mn. • Fiscal Response The Government has proposed a Rs. 500 Bn supplementary estimate for 2026. This includes Rs. 250 Bn for critical infrastructure and Rs. 100 Bn for housing. The budget deficit is expected to rise by 1.4% to 6.5% of GDP due to these recovery costs.
Sri Lanka Advancing Circular Economy & Sustainable Manufacturing 📈
The 2nd International Conference on Circular Economy and Sustainable Ecosystem (IC2ESE 2025) concluded at the Open University of Sri Lanka, focusing on transitioning the nation from traditional linear models to regenerative systems. • Core Objective: Strengthening the link between academic research and industrial application, specifically supporting the MSc in Energy for Circular Economy to develop skilled professionals for the national energy transition. • Sector Insights: • Manufacturing: Industry leaders called for a shift from "take-make-dispose" to circular production. This aims to enhance industrial competitiveness and reduce waste/emissions through resource efficiency and material recovery. • Energy & Transport: Technical sessions focused on energy technologies, sustainable transport, and material circularity to align with Sri Lanka's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). • Education: Experts highlighted the role of research-based learning and policy alignment in preparing the workforce for a low-carbon economy. • Strategic Outlook: The transition is viewed as vital for meeting Sri Lanka’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Key enablers identified include policy support, green finance mechanisms, and cross-sector collaboration to build a resilient industrial economy. _Based on conference proceedings and official addresses._ Would you like me to find more details on Sri Lanka's specific Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for the manufacturing sector?
📈 Dialog Axiata Pledges LKR 420 Million for Cyclone Ditwah Recovery
Dialog Axiata PLC has committed LKR 420 million to the "Rebuilding Sri Lanka" initiative to accelerate recovery following the impact of Cyclone Ditwah. The funds are earmarked for critical infrastructure restoration in the healthcare and education sectors. • Healthcare Infrastructure Upgrades: Partnering with the Ministry of Health to restore and upgrade facilities at: Chilaw District General Hospital Base Hospital Puttalam Divisional Hospitals in Kotmale and Madulkele • Education & ICT Restoration: Collaboration with the Ministry of Education to refurbish computer laboratories in over 20 cyclone-affected schools, restoring ICT infrastructure and digital connectivity for students. • Immediate Relief Measures: Prior to this commitment, Dialog provided emergency assistance to over 8 million customers via free voice, SMS, mobile data, and home broadband quotas to ensure essential communication during the disaster. • Strategic Context: This initiative follows Dialog's history of national support, including the National Fuel Pass during the 2022 economic crisis and ICU establishments during COVID-19. The project emphasizes public-private partnerships to strengthen national resilience and long-term community outcomes. _Based on official corporate disclosure (2026-01-06)._ Would you like me to track further private sector contributions to the Cyclone Ditwah recovery efforts?
Prime Group Supports Police Families Affected by Cyclone Ditwah 👨👩👧👦📚
Prime Group has launched a national initiative to support the children of Sri Lanka Police families impacted by Cyclone Ditwah. • The program provided essential educational supplies to ensure uninterrupted schooling for children whose families faced hardship while officers safeguarded the nation. • 1000 students across Sri Lanka received support, with Prime Group investing Rs. 10 million in the initiative. • Donations were ceremonially handed over at Sri Lanka Police Headquarters, attended by key government and police officials, as well as Prime Group's leadership. • Prime Group Co-Chairperson Sandamini Perera emphasized the gesture as a token of gratitude for the police officers' selfless service during the cyclone. • This initiative reinforces Prime Group's commitment to building resilient communities and supporting the nation, aligning with their 30 years of leadership in Sri Lanka's real estate sector.
Lion Brewery Bolsters Flood Resilience & Community Support in Biyagama 🌊
Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC has reaffirmed its commitment to flood resilience and community support in Biyagama, its core operations hub, following recent severe floods along the Kelani River. • During the emergency, Lion teams, empowered for swift action, mobilised to support the community. Efforts included: • Evacuation assistance with A-Pad trained rescue teams. • Delivery of food, clean water, and essential supplies, especially to hard-to-reach areas. • Post-flood clean-up, clearing debris, mud, and hazards with local authorities. • The company worked closely with government officials and local businesses, highlighting the value of public-private collaboration during crises. • Future plans include establishing a safe, accessible community stronghold facility on higher ground, equipped to support residents during future flood events. • CEO Rajiv Meewakkala emphasised that building climate resilience protects both operations and community livelihoods, investing in infrastructure and knowledge sharing to strengthen Sri Lanka's disaster management ecosystem.
Morison's 'Suwa Deya' Aids Cyclone-Affected Communities 🤝
Morison, a leading Sri Lankan pharmaceutical manufacturer, has activated its CSR platform 'Suwa Deya' to provide crucial support to communities affected by the recent cyclone. • As the Principal Medical Partner, Morison donated medicines manufactured at its plants, valued at nearly Rs. 4 million. • These medicines will be distributed through medical camps organised by Swarnavahini, a leading Sri Lankan TV channel, in the coming weeks. • The initiative aligns with Morison's purpose of 'Making Premium Healthcare Affordable' and ensures access to essential healthcare during this challenging time. • Morison employees also made personal contributions of dry rations, which were handed over to Swarnavahini to support affected families. • This collective effort underscores Morison's commitment to national solidarity and supporting Sri Lanka's path to recovery.
SLIC Supports 1,000 Cyclone-Affected Families 🇱🇰
Sri Lanka Insurance (SLIC) Life and General, in collaboration with the National Disaster Relief Services Centre (NDRSC), provided crucial assistance to families impacted by the recent ‘Ditwah’ cyclone. • Relief Initiative: 1,000 families received dry ration packs. • Affected Areas: Aid was distributed in Divulapitiya Pradeshiya Sabha and Maharagama Urban Council. • Timelines: Distribution occurred in two phases on November 30 and December 2, 2025. • Commitment: Sri Lanka Insurance Chairman Nusith Kumaaratunga emphasized the company's commitment to community wellbeing and its role as a trusted national insurer. • Additional Support: SLIC General also implemented extended operating hours at selected branches in affected areas to ensure uninterrupted service for policyholders impacted by the severe weather.
📱 TikTok's Vision for Safe Digital Learning in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
• Social media platforms are reshaping education by amplifying curiosity and collaboration, but also pose risks like misinformation and virality. • TikTok, led by Trust & Safety Lead Asma Anjum, is committed to creating safe and inclusive digital learning environments. • Key safety measures on TikTok include: • Restricting access to users over 13, reflecting developmental readiness. • A multi-layered content review process focusing on learning value, age-appropriateness, and factual accuracy, supported by AI and human moderation. • Features like #LearnOnTikTok, #StudyTok, creator verification for educational content (e.g., STEM Feed), and interactive prompts to encourage engagement. • The platform prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity to bridge digital literacy and device availability gaps across diverse regions. • For Sri Lanka, the emphasis is on cultivating digital literacy and responsible online behavior. • Realizing this potential requires collaboration among government, educators, and platforms to bridge connectivity gaps, ensure equitable access, and prepare the next generation to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
🚨 Sri Lanka Urged to Learn from Global Leaders in Climate Preparedness & Green Economy 🌍
Eric Solheim, former UN Environment Program Executive Director, offers to assist Sri Lanka with climate preparedness following recent extreme weather events. He highlights: • Sri Lanka, with its tropical climate, is particularly vulnerable to increased floods, droughts, and landslides due to global warming. • Key Recommendations for Sri Lanka: Improve early warning systems to alert citizens in hazardous areas. Develop climate-resilient infrastructure. Implement better planning for future disasters. • Lessons from Other Nations: China & India: Leading the green energy revolution, producing 60% of global solar, wind, hydropower, and EVs/batteries. They see green transition as an opportunity for jobs and prosperity. Bangladesh: Offers valuable lessons in preparedness for climate catastrophes. Tropical nations (e.g., Indonesia, Thailand, Africa, Latin America): Sri Lanka can benefit from comparing notes and sharing experiences with countries facing similar issues. • Economic Opportunity: Moving to a green economy (e.g., solar energy) is now the cheapest option globally and can drive prosperity, create jobs, and elevate citizens to middle-class levels. • Solheim expressed willingness to visit Sri Lanka to share expertise with the government, businesses, and civil society.
📈 Deep Tec Engineering Uplifts Rural Sri Lanka with Sustainable Water & Solar Solutions!
• Deep Tec Engineering leads with a 28% market share in solar water pumps. • Annually delivers nearly US$ 2 million in solar water pump projects. • Strong collaborations with international development agencies like the UN and World Bank. • Over the past decade, thousands of rural families and farmers have gained access to water for drinking, agriculture, and livelihoods using solar-powered systems. • Company is at the forefront of Sri Lanka's green engineering movement, promoting fossil fuel and grid-independent solutions. • Managing Director Thilina Hettiarachchi, recently named Best Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 at the Iconic Awards 2025, drives the company's mission for rural upliftment and renewable energy adoption. • Deep Tec aims to scale its solar water solutions to further support national environmental goals and empower more rural families.
Union Bank Supports Cyclone Ditwah Relief with "Sounds of the Season" 🎶
• Union Bank partnered with Port City Colombo and the Sri Lanka Institute of Directors to host "Sounds of the Season," a Christmas carols event. • The initiative aimed to raise funds for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. • Performances included the Soul Sounds and Union Bank Choirs, with special guest acts by Alston Koch and the De Lanerolle Brothers. • This event highlights a collaborative effort in corporate social responsibility (CSR) to support national relief efforts.
Allianz Commits €200,000 for Sri Lanka Flood Recovery & Resilience 🤝🇱🇰
Allianz SE has pledged €200,000 to support post-flood recovery and resilience efforts in Sri Lanka, part of a larger €600,000 regional relief initiative for Southeast Asia following severe floods and landslides. • Regional Support: Allianz is donating €600,000 across Southeast Asia, with Sri Lanka receiving €200,000, and an additional €400,000 allocated for Thailand and Indonesia. • Sri Lanka Allocation: • €100,000 for immediate assistance via the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS). • €100,000 for long-term post-disaster support, focusing on disaster prevention and climate resilience, implemented with Allianz Insurance Lanka Limited and local partners. • Objective: The funds aim to help affected communities recover, strengthen local preparedness against future climate-related events, and rebuild stronger. • Commitment: This support highlights Allianz's commitment to its stakeholders and communities in Asia, a strategic growth region for the group.
🌪️ Sriyani Dress Point Aids Cyclone Ditwah Victims with Rs. 20M & Relief Efforts
• Sriyani Dress Point, a leading fashion retailer, has donated Rs. 20 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund for Cyclone Ditwah relief. • The donation was presented to Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake by Chairman M. Selvaraj and senior leadership. • Beyond financial aid, the company mobilized staff from its eight showrooms across Sri Lanka to conduct ground-level relief operations. • Essential aid, including clothing and dry rations, was distributed directly to affected families. • Relief efforts were amplified through partnerships with humanitarian initiatives led by Sri Lankan media organizations and other key collaborations.
📢 Almas Holdings Pledges Rs. 250 Mn to 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund 🇱🇰
• Almas Holdings Ltd. has committed a total of Rs. 250 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. • An initial contribution of Rs. 100 million has already been made, with an additional Rs. 150 million pledged. • The fund aims to provide relief to communities affected by the Ditwah cyclone. • The company also expressed commitment to further support flood relief and reconstruction initiatives, particularly in the Kandy District.
Lakbima Rice Mills Donates Rs. 100 Mn to 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund 🇱🇰
• Lakbima Rice Mills Ltd. has contributed Rs. 100 million (Mn) to the government's 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund. • The fund was established to provide relief to communities affected by Cyclone Ditwa. • The donation was handed over by Araliya Group Chairman Dudley Sirisena to Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake at the Presidential Secretariat.
Diamond Cutters Achieves LEED Gold for Panadura Expansion! 📈
• Diamond Cutters Ltd. has secured LEED Gold Certification for its new state-of-the-art facility in Panadura, marking its second LEED-certified building. • The certification from the US Green Building Council highlights the facility’s commitment to energy and water efficiency, improved indoor environmental quality, and responsible construction. • Key features include high-efficiency chillers, optimised HVAC, smart automation, and advanced ventilation systems. • This achievement offers a significant strategic advantage, meeting growing global buyer demand for verified sustainability and strengthening Diamond Cutters' brand equity and ESG alignment. • co-energi Ltd. served as the sustainability, engineering, and MEP consultant, playing a crucial role in developing this high-performance, energy-efficient manufacturing facility.
UN Warns World Unprepared for Escalating Climate Disasters ⚠️
The United Nations has issued a stark warning that the world is increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, with current systems, financing, and infrastructure falling short of handling the accelerating pace of climate-related disasters. • Global Preparedness Gap: UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche stated that despite more frequent and intense extreme weather, global and national preparedness has not kept pace. He emphasized that the world will suffer many more disasters in the coming years and decades. • Shrinking Aid & Competition: Nations are struggling with overlapping crises while global humanitarian financing shrinks due to governments diverting budgets to domestic priorities. Sri Lanka faces stiff competition for international aid as countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand also grapple with simultaneous climate disasters, alongside major humanitarian crises elsewhere. • Call for Climate-Resilient Development: Franche urged governments, including Sri Lanka, to use post-disaster recovery as a turning point to rebuild stronger, safer, and climate-smart infrastructure rather than replicating past vulnerabilities. • Avoid High-Risk Areas: The UN asserts the need for climate-resilient rebuilding and avoiding resettlement in historically flood-prone or high-risk areas. Proactive investment in protection measures, like along the Kelani River, is crucial and cheaper than repeated post-disaster relief.
📈 Sri Lanka's Tourism Boom: Experts Urge Sustainable Growth
Intrepid Travel Asia–Australia MD Natalie Kidd highlights Sri Lanka's surging popularity and stresses the need for sustainable destination management to safeguard its future. • Rapid Growth: Sri Lanka broke into Intrepid Travel's global top 10 in 2024, with arrivals doubling in 2024, and projected to grow 50% in both 2025 and 2026. • Warning Signs: Unmanaged tourism risks include rising global carbon emissions (10% of global total), anti-tourism protests, and over-tourism impacting local needs. • Strategic Shift Needed: Urges Sri Lanka to prioritize quality visitors over unchecked numbers, adopt strategic destination management, and set carrying capacities to protect natural and cultural assets. • Sustainability as a Competitive Edge: Visitors increasingly choose destinations with strong environmental and community standards. A third of European travellers may change destinations if sustainability is lacking. • Key Recommendations: • Protect biodiversity, heritage sites, and local traditions. • Address waste, water management, and ethical wildlife tourism. • Increase community inclusion, especially for women in visible industry roles. • Diverse Appeal: Sri Lanka's beaches, culture, wildlife, and adventure offer year-round appeal and enable higher-value segments. • Call to Action: Government and public-private collaboration are crucial to implement practical steps for a value-driven, sustainable tourism future.
Sinopec Provides 75,000L Emergency Water Relief to Flood-Hit Areas Under 'Clear Spring' Initiative 💧
• Sinopec has mobilized its "Clear Spring" CSR programme to donate 75,000 litres of bottled drinking water to flood-affected communities across Sri Lanka. • Distribution was carried out through Sinopec's Filling Stations Network and strategic partners in severely impacted regions, including Kandy, Badulla, Anuradhapura, Jaffna, Biyagama, and Kelaniya. Direct donations were also made to local government offices. • Hon. Kumar Jayakody, Minister of Energy, personally participated in the distribution, underscoring the collaborative effort between public institutions and private operators in the energy sector during the national crisis. • This initiative addresses the urgent need for safe drinking water, crucial due to widespread disruptions and damage to water supply systems caused by flooding. • It builds on Sinopec's existing humanitarian efforts, which include the installation of water filtration units in Madu, Mannar, and Anuradhapura earlier this year, with commitments for further expansion. • Sinopec reaffirms its readiness to expand the 'Clear Spring' initiative to support Sri Lanka's ongoing recovery and ensure access to clean water. 🤝
🌊 Blue Lanka Tours Aids Flood Relief Efforts 🚤
• Blue Lanka Tours has donated two brand new motorboats, valued at Rs. 2.6 million, to the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Centre. • The donation is a direct response to the destruction caused by the Ditwah cyclone, aiming to bolster ongoing rescue and relief efforts. • The fibreglass boat and Suzuki 2-stroke outboard boat are designed for challenging operations in flooded areas, providing vital access where traditional transport is limited. • These boats will serve as permanent assets for the government, deployable for future disaster response, routine rescue operations, flood preparedness, and community transport in vulnerable regions.
🇦🇪🇱🇰 UAE Leads Sri Lanka Cyclone Relief Efforts 📈
• Lulu Group Chairman Yusuff Ali MA spearheaded UAE residents' aid for cyclone-hit Sri Lanka, donating Rs. 32 million (US$ 100,000) to the national relief and recovery fund. • Other significant contributions include: • Tristar Group CEO Eugene Mayne: Rs. 25 million (Dh 300,000) • Sri Lankan Quantity Surveyors in the UAE (SLQS-UAE): Rs. 8.5 million • Sri Lankan Professionals Association (SLPA): Rs. 5.5 million • Sri Lankan missions in the UAE are sending tons of relief materials, with two 40-foot containers and nearly 10 tons of air cargo dispatched. • The UAE Government's support has been "unprecedented," including 9 flights and a recovery team that assisted in locating missing persons. • Cyclone Ditwah has caused widespread devastation: • 635 lives lost, 192 people still missing (potential total up to 800-900). • 1.76 million people affected. • 5,300 houses completely destroyed, 81,000 partially damaged. • 69,800 people from 22,000 families are in 690 safety centres. • Sri Lanka’s government is urging financial support for rebuilding efforts, including infrastructure projects like schools.
Sri Lanka Grapples with Cyclone Ditwah Devastation & Economic Recovery 📈
Sri Lanka faces immense challenges after Cyclone Ditwah, resulting in: • Human Toll: Over 600 deaths reported, with counting ongoing. • Housing Damage: 5,165 houses completely destroyed, 57,312 partially damaged. • Economic Impact: Estimated US$ 7 billion in infrastructural and economic damage, impacting the nation's 2026 growth target of 5%. • Government Response: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expresses confidence in recovery with state, foreign, and local support, despite critics citing neglected early warnings and environmental aspects of development projects. The article also highlights a broader global issue: • Increasing Disasters: An average of 417 natural disasters occurred annually over the last decade, with experts warning of increased frequency due to changing weather patterns and rising sea levels. • "One-Dimensional Economies": The text critiques modern economic systems driven by technological rationalism and consumerism, which prioritize growth (GNP) over environmental sustainability, leading to reckless resource depletion. • Historical Warnings: Intellectuals like Marcuse, Veblen, and reports like the 1972 "Limits to Growth" have long warned about the dangers of unchecked industrialization and resource use. • Global Efforts Challenged: International treaties like the Paris Accord (COP21) aim to limit global warming, but challenges remain, notably the US withdrawal and lobbying from major MNCs impacting environmental initiatives. An "environment-friendly economic paradigm" is urged as essential for long-term immunity from natural havoc.
🎭 Santani Foundation Launches "Gurukulaya" to Preserve Kandyan Dance Heritage
• The Santani Foundation, through the new documentary "Gurukulaya," is making a vital effort to foster the traditional Kandyan dance form, honoring its custodian artisans (gurukula masters). • This initiative follows the foundation's 2024 launch of the "Samula" heritage dance festival, marking a crucial cultural milestone. • The documentary celebrates key figures who have shaped the dance, including Dr. Widyawathie Rajapakse, the Thiththapajjala brothers, and the legacy of the Chitrasena Dance Company. • Financial Challenge: Santani Foundation CEO noted the three-day Samula festival cost approximately Rs. 50 Million, underscoring the significant financial requirements for preservation. • A strong appeal was made for Government and private sector sponsors to step in, arguing that sustained support is necessary to prevent the art form from diluting. • The CEO suggested that amalgamating local art festivals could be a phenomenal step to support artists and boost country-wide tourism. • The foundation also aims to position the Dumbara area as a major cultural hub. • Samula was supported by principal sponsors MDF and Australian aid, alongside partners including Sri Lankan Airlines and Aitken Spence Travels.
Tiesh Partners Infinite Grace Foundation to Champion Mental Health & Rehabilitation 🤝
• Sri Lankan jewellery brand Tiesh has announced a meaningful partnership with the Infinite Grace Foundation (IGF) to address critical national challenges. • The collaboration focuses on vital, often-overlooked areas: mental health support, drug addiction, prisoner rehabilitation, anti-human trafficking awareness, and the empowerment of estate communities. • IGF's core campaign is "I See You," aimed at recognising, supporting, and uplifting overlooked individuals and promoting year-round advocacy. • To support the initiative, Tiesh has launched an exclusive jewellery collection (including diamonds, gold, and silver pieces). All proceeds from this collection will be donated directly to the Infinite Grace Foundation. • The foundation's work covers wide-ranging pillars, including prison reforms, addiction rehabilitation, vocational training, and mental health destigmatisation, with a vision to create a "Clean Sri Lanka" in heart, mind, and community. • Tiesh Directors expressed a future goal to offer job opportunities in jewellery craftsmanship, box making, design, or other livelihood pathways to support rehabilitated individuals.
Gangaramaya Temple Donates Rs. 30 Mn to Cyclone Relief 🤝
• The Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo has contributed Rs. 30 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ fund. • The fund was established to provide relief to those affected by Cyclone Ditwa. • The donation will support both immediate relief for the affected population and the rebuilding of damaged temples and religious sites across the island. • Chief Incumbent Ven. Dr Kirinde Assaji Nayaka Thera confirmed the Temple will also coordinate future assistance from overseas Buddhist temples. • Groups affiliated with Gangaramaya, both locally and internationally, are expected to extend further support to the fund.
Apparel Sector Activates Coordinated Relief Effort Post-Severe Weather 🤝
• The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) confirms the activation of a coordinated relief and recovery effort following severe weather conditions (flooding/landslides) across Sri Lanka. • Highest Priority: Employee safety and wellbeing is the top focus. JAAF is working to identify affected employees, assess needs, and ensure timely assistance. • Operational Status: Most factories have resumed normal operations. Only a few isolated pockets still face access and infrastructure challenges. • Immediate Support: Companies are providing emergency aid, including food, clothing, temporary shelter, transport assistance, and essential supplies to displaced workers, their families, and local communities. • Coordination: JAAF has established focal points to streamline relief efforts, allowing for faster mobilization of resources and district-level impact reporting. • The apparel & textiles industry is actively collaborating with Government authorities to support national relief efforts, highlighting its commitment to immediate recovery and long-term support for its people.
👶 Flood Relief: MP Namal Pledges Salary to 'Adaraya'
• MP Namal Rajapaksa has pledged his monthly salary and allowances to the “Adaraya” program, a relief initiative for children. • The Adaraya program, launched last week, aims to support children from families affected by the recent floods and landslides. • Assistance focuses on providing essential school supplies, such as books, pens, and pencils, to help children return to their education. • UNICEF estimates that nearly 300,000 children have been impacted by the disaster, with over 275,000 affected by Cyclone Ditwah. • The program is open to anyone wishing to assist children in the affected areas.
VFS Global Donates Rs. 7.5 Mn to SL Flood Relief Fund 🇱🇰
• VFS Global has contributed Rs. 7.5 million (US$ 25,000) to the Government’s official Flood Relief Fund, established by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. • The support addresses the severe flooding and landslides that have impacted 25 districts and over 266,000 families. • The donation is earmarked for critical nationwide relief efforts, including the provision of temporary shelter, medical supplies, and logistical support. • The company is also organizing employee volunteering and giving opportunities to extend support beyond financial aid. • This latest gesture builds on VFS Global's community efforts, totaling an investment of Rs. 27 million in Sri Lanka for 2025, which included initiatives like Youth Empowerment.
CH17 Launches Digital Privilege Card for Disaster Relief Heroes 🤝
• CH17 has announced a nationwide initiative themed "Rebuild Sri Lanka" to honour individuals and groups supporting ongoing post-cyclone disaster relief and recovery efforts. • The core plan is to issue 10,000 special digital privilege cards to first responders, volunteers, donors, welfare teams, and media personnel. • The digital card (QR code, unique ID) will allow recipients to access special discounts funded entirely by participating merchants and retailers. • CH17 is urging thousands of private merchants, shops and service providers to join the goodwill effort, strengthening the recognition layer for national rebuilding. • This program follows the successful humanitarian recognition system (CARE Program) previously deployed by CH17 during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021). • CH17 has also developed a complementary program to assist aid agencies in real-time monitoring of relief distribution processes.
OPA Members Rally with Rs. 1 Mn+ Aid for Cyclone Victims 🤝
• The Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) and its Member Associations have collectively contributed vital relief supplies for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. • The total value of the donated essential supplies (dry rations, sanitary items, bottled water, etc.) exceeds Rs. 1 million. • Donations were officially handed over on Dec 3, 2025, by OPA President Jayantha Gallehewa to the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation (SLRC) Director-General Manoja Nadeeshana Amarasinghe. • This action reflects the strong commitment of the professional community to stand in solidarity and support the nation during this challenging time.
🤝 Overseas Chinese Association Donates Rs. 1 Mn for Cyclone Relief
• The Sri Lanka Overseas Chinese Association has donated Rs. 1 million (Mn) to support the nation's post-disaster recovery and rebuilding efforts. • The contribution is specifically aimed at assisting with cyclone relief operations. • The donation was officially handed over at the Presidential Secretariat to Dharmasiri Gamge, Director General of Public Relations.
Digital Wings Initiative Bridges SL's Digital Divide 💻
• laptop.lk has launched "Digital Wings," a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at providing essential tech tools and bridging the digital divide, particularly in Sri Lanka’s rural regions. • Goal: To ignite curiosity, improve digital literacy, and build confidence among students and educators alike. • Inaugural Phase: Took place at Parakum Maha Vidyalaya, Vavuniya, where the company donated laptops, desktops, and printers. • Value: The donated equipment is valued at over Rs. 1 million (Rs. 1 Mn). • Context: Spearheaded by laptop.lk Chairman Famy Ismail, the program supports Sri Lanka’s digital transformation by ensuring access to knowledge and opportunities regardless of geography.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Donates Rs. 300 Million to National Relief Fund 🤝
• Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has donated Rs. 300 million to the government's ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund. • The decision was made by the Executive Committee, led by President Shammi Silva. • Purpose: The funds will primarily support emergency relief for families affected by Cyclone Ditwah and help restore essential public services. • SLC emphasised its commitment as an iconic national body to stand by the nation and extend support for the country’s progress.
Dilmah & UNGC Launch 'Grey2Green' Urban Transformation Movement 🌳
• The initiative addresses the urgent need for more green spaces in Colombo, which a study shows has warmed by up to 4°C over the last two decades. • 'Grey2Green' is a national, citizen-powered movement by Dilmah Conservation and UN Global Compact Sri Lanka, inviting the public to convert concrete “grey” areas (rooftops, unused land, industrial sites) into thriving ecological spaces. • It is not a traditional tree-planting campaign but a long-term, data-driven process focusing on ecosystem management, science-based restoration, and community engagement. • Participants will receive training in urban forestry and ecology, replicating the success of the One Earth Urban Arboretum, which transformed an industrial waste dump into a green sanctuary. • The Central Environmental Authority supports urban greening as a national priority, and the initiative aligns with global sustainability goals (UN SDGs 11 & 13: Sustainable Cities and Climate Action).
Vidullanka Achieves Carbon Neutrality Across All Operations 💡
• Vidullanka PLC has attained Carbon Neutrality across its entire operational footprint, verified under the ISO 14064-1:2018 standard for the April 2024–March 2025 period. • The comprehensive verification by Control Union Inspections Ltd. covers all operations, including overseas subsidiaries in Uganda and its full portfolio of mini-hydro, solar, and biomass renewable energy plants. • Total verified GHG emissions for the period amounted to 2,062 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e). • Key Significance: Vidullanka is the first power sector company to align its GHG reporting with Sri Lanka’s 2030 national emission reduction target (20.8%) and the 2050 carbon neutrality vision. • The company actively supports national goals: • In the last FY, it offset 149,949 tCO₂e through energy generation and surpassed its 100,000 tree planting target. • Plans are underway to integrate advanced IT-based GHG tracking tools to enhance efficiency and support the company's broader Net-Zero commitment.
📈 HUTCH Pledges Rs. 60 Mn to ‘Rebuild Sri Lanka’ Fund
• HUTCH Sri Lanka has stepped forward with a significant Rs. 60 Million contribution to the ‘Rebuild Sri Lanka Fund’ to aid the nation's recovery post-Cyclone Ditwah. • The funds from the CK Hutchison Group subsidiary will be utilized to rebuild vital public infrastructure and restore livelihoods across affected communities. • In addition to the financial pledge, the company undertook direct relief efforts focused on connectivity: • Offering free calls, data, and SMS. • Deploying mobile charging booths. • Airlifting engineers for swift network tower repairs. • HUTCH reaffirms its role as a committed long-term partner in supporting Sri Lanka, prioritizing keeping people "contactable and safe" during the crisis.
Rs. 20 Mn Boost for 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund 🤝
• Financial contributions continue to flow into the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, which aims to provide relief to communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. • Yesterday, the fund received a total of Rs. 20 million (Rs. 20 Mn) from two main sources. • Key Donors (Rs. 10 Mn each): • Sri Lanka Administrative Service Association • Pragathi Lanka International Ltd.
Cargills Launches 'Heart for the Nation' Flood Relief Support 💧
• Cargills has stepped forward with its 'Heart for the Nation' program to assist families affected by recent floods across Sri Lanka. • Immediate Relief: The company has dispatched 10,000 dry-ration packs to the most severely impacted areas. • All distributions are carried out in close coordination with government agencies and local authorities. • Next Phase: The initiative will soon be opened to customers, allowing the public to contribute towards essential food and hygiene items. • Cargills will then distribute these customer-contributed supplies using its extensive island-wide store network and logistics capabilities.
CHEC Port City Aids Cyclone Recovery with Rs. 10 Mn & On-Ground Support 🤝
• CHEC Port City Colombo Ltd. has committed critical financial and on-ground support following the devastating Cyclone Ditwah. • Financial Support: Donated Rs. 10 million (Rs. 10 Mn) to the Government’s newly established ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund for long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation. • Physical Aid: Mobilised a fleet of 12 critical disaster-response machinery, including loaders, excavators, and dump trucks, ready for rapid deployment for debris clearance and rescue operations. • Technical Assistance: Offering specialised engineering support and technical assistance for emergency bridge repairs, road reconstruction, and reconnecting isolated communities. • All required skilled personnel are also being fully sourced and deployed by the company to ensure uninterrupted, on-ground assistance.
SLT-Mobitel Launches Free 24/7 Medical Helpline for Flood-Affected. 🩺
• SLT-Mobitel, the National ICT Solutions Provider, has launched the free ‘247 Helpline’ to support communities affected by the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. • The service provides round-the-clock (24/7) medical advice from a dedicated panel of professionals. This is a collaboration with the University of Colombo. • Callers can dial 247 for timely guidance on health concerns arising from the floods, such as injuries, fever, waterborne illnesses, and breathing difficulties. • The helpline is accessible free of charge to all mobile users across all networks in Sri Lanka, ensuring wide access to essential medical support during this challenging period.
Corporate Support for Flood Relief Efforts
• Avon Pharmo Chem Ltd. Managing Director Kumara Ekanayake, along with Australian Immigration lawyer Hemanta Punchihewa, donated Rs. 2 Mn (Two Million) to assist flood relief efforts. • The donation is specifically aimed at supporting the Government’s program to provide relief to citizens affected by recent adverse weather conditions. • The funds were formally handed over to the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake.
🚨 Uber Commits Rs. 65 Mn for Cyclone Ditwah Relief & Partners Red Cross.
• Uber Sri Lanka has announced a major partnership with the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS) to provide emergency relief and recovery support for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. • Total Commitment: The company is contributing approximately Rs. 65 million (Rs. 65 Mn) combining funds, mobility support, and grocery access. • Support Breakdown: • Rs. 30 Mn allocated for SLRCS to procure and distribute dry-ration kits, life-saving medicines, and essential care packages across affected regions. • Rs. 17.5 Mn in free Uber rides to facilitate safe transport for Red Cross teams during rescue and relief operations. • Rs. 17.5 Mn via Uber Eats to enable SLRCS to source and deliver groceries and essentials from local merchants to impacted households. • Community Mobilisation: Uber is also collaborating with the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) on a public Donation Drive. The Uber app will facilitate donation pick-ups for dry rations and essential goods, delivering them to the CMC collection point at Colombo Town Hall. • Company leaders emphasised sustained, long-term support for the community during this critical time.
Starlink Offers Free Connectivity for Cyclone Ditwah Relief in Sri Lanka 🤝📡
• Starlink is providing free satellite internet service in Sri Lanka for those affected by Cyclone Ditwah and subsequent flooding. • This free service is available to both new and existing customers until the end of December 2025. • The company is closely coordinating with the Sri Lankan Government to deliver additional assistance for restoration efforts. • Existing users (active, suspended, or paused accounts) will have free service credits applied automatically. • New customers in affected regions can receive the free period after purchasing/activating a terminal and creating a support ticket referencing “Sri Lanka Flood Support”. • Focus is on ensuring impacted communities maintain reliable connectivity during recovery operations. • The authorised agent for Starlink in Sri Lanka is Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC.
🚨 Binance Donates Rs. 61.6m for Cyclone Ditwah Relief 🇱🇰
• Binance Charity has pledged Rs. 61.6 million (US$ 200,000) for urgent humanitarian and early-recovery efforts following the severe flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka. • The donation is channeled through the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS) to ensure immediate relief reaches affected communities. • Disaster Scale: The cyclone has disrupted over 1 million people nationwide. Nearly 200,000 individuals are currently taking refuge in over 1000 temporary shelters, based on Disaster Management Centre data. • Support Focus: Funds are allocated towards life-saving relief essentials, including food, clean drinking water, hygiene/dignity kits, medical supplies, temporary shelter materials, and cash grants for the most vulnerable communities. • SLRCS stated the generous contribution is critical for strengthening their capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to the unprecedented humanitarian challenge.
📰 Apple Pledges Support for Sri Lanka Storm Relief
• Apple CEO Tim Cook announced the company will make donations towards relief and rebuilding efforts in several Asian countries, including Sri Lanka. • The pledge addresses the devastation caused by recent floods, landslides, and strong winds across the region (also impacting Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia). • Apple committed an unspecified amount to support the relief and rebuilding initiatives on the ground. • The announcement was made by CEO Tim Cook on X (formerly Twitter). • Separately, Apple's internal Employee Giving program has raised over US$ 880 million globally to date through a donation matching policy.
🇱🇰 SL Secures € 8M EU Grant for Green Agriculture 🌿
• Cabinet approved an € 8 million financial grant from the European Union (EU) for the ‘Agri-Green Initiatives for Green Economic Growth’ project. • Core Focus: Promote sustainable agriculture practices, strengthen food security, and support Sri Lanka's transition toward a green economy. • Sector Highlight: The proposal, initiated by Rubber Development and Research bodies, specifically targets rubber-growing regions across seven provinces. • Target Areas: Includes Western, Sabaragamuwa, Uva, Eastern, Southern, Central, and North-Central Provinces. • Implementation: The German International Cooperation (GIZ) has been appointed as the main implementing authority. • Inclusivity: Special focus will be given to engaging youth and women within production chains to drive inclusive growth.
PickMe Activates Islandwide Digital Relief Network Amid Worst Floods 🇱🇰
Local ride-hailing giant PickMe has activated its full logistical and digital network to support nationwide flood relief efforts, responding to one of Sri Lanka's most devastating flood disasters. • Emergency Initiative: The company launched a three-pronged approach leveraging its shared-economy infrastructure to coordinate citizen donations, monetary aid, and assist urgent transport/rescue operations. • In-App 'AID' Feature: A special "AID" option is now available under the "Rides" service, enabling users to request free doorstep pickups of relief packs (dry rations, essentials) from their homes. • Financial Aid: Digital monetary donations are accepted through the PickMe Events platform, channeled directly to vetted partners, currently including Round Table Sri Lanka. • Logistics & Partnerships: A central collection hub is established at PickMe HQ (Colombo 6). Physical collections are dispatched immediately to affected zones in partnership with Ada Derana's humanitarian program. • PickMe's extensive driver network is actively providing on-the-ground support, utilizing its digital platform capabilities for the first large-scale humanitarian response of this kind by a Sri Lankan digital platform. Collections data will be published for transparency upon project conclusion.
Warning: Exclusive Planning Risks Failed Post-Disaster Rebuilding in Sri Lanka ⚠️
• Governance Alarm: Strong criticism leveled at the Government's appointment of an all-male corporate committee to manage post-Cyclone Ditwah rebuilding funds, citing the risk of an "opportunity seeking game" and corporate capture. • Stakeholder Exclusion: The exclusive planning process is heavily criticized for ignoring key actors necessary for an inclusive transformation: • Provincial Councils: Ignoring the constitutional three-tiered structure and the need for decentralised assessment, as impact scale varies across provinces. • Social Groups: No representation for women, youth (despite the Aragalaya), or civil society, who are vital for inclusive and sustainable development (SDG5). • Corporate Risk: The committee is seen as potentially composed of figures from sectors like tea and garments who have previously been involved in exploiting natural and human capital, suggesting a profit-over-sustainability approach. • Call for System Change: The author insists the Government must not sub-contract its primary responsibility and must use this disaster as a mandatory opportunity for "Systems Change." Rebuilding must move away from the "exploitative and destructive development model." • Strategic Path: A call to Recalibrate systems and converge economic planning with climate sustainability. The required approach is to Reimagine resource mobilization, Reorganise resource governance, and Reinvest in transformational pathways.
🤝 Dawoodi Bohra Community Donates Rs. 10 Mn for Disaster Relief
• The Sri Lanka Dawoodi Bohra community has donated Rs. 10 Million (Rs. 10 Mn) to support the government's ongoing relief efforts for those affected by recent adverse weather conditions. • The donation was made on behalf of the global head, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin. • Mr. Ibrahim Sainy, Chairman of the community, handed over the cheque to Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President, at the Presidential Secretariat today (Dec 02). • Representatives assured continued support for future relief initiatives in line with national efforts.
🚨 Cyclone Ditwah Exposes Critical Gaps in SL Health & Disaster Systems
• Human Toll: The cyclone has resulted in a death toll of 355+ and rising, with over 200,000 displaced, heavily impacting the central hills and low-lying river basins. • Infrastructure Risk: A considerable number of hospitals and medical centres operate in high flood and landslide-risk areas, making facilities themselves vulnerable and disrupting access to care. • Epidemiological Threat: The physical exposure quickly creates an epidemiological risk. Flood-prone districts are already where some of the highest average annual dengue and leptospirosis cases are reported, suggesting a likely "second wave" of climate-sensitive illnesses. • Systemic Failure: The disaster response ecosystem is fragmented due to ad hoc coordination between the Ministry of Health and the Disaster Management Centre (DMC). Frontline workers lack integrated dashboards, relying on informal, siloed information during crises. • Urgent Solutions (IPS Call): An urgent call for "Digital Fortification" is proposed, requiring: An integrated emergency coordination platform to connect the DMC, MoH, hospitals, and field staff. A climate and health surveillance system that combines real-time climate/hazard data with routine disease reporting to issue specific health warnings. • Way Forward: Sri Lanka must transform its disaster preparedness by upgrading and linking existing digital health tools to build a more intelligent and anticipatory system as climate disasters become more frequent.
LB Finance Donates Rs. 5 Mn to Support Disaster Relief Efforts 🤝
• LB Finance PLC has contributed Rs. 5 million towards humanitarian assistance for communities affected by adverse weather conditions. • The donation is aligned with the Government’s ongoing relief programme. • The cheque was officially handed over by LB Finance Managing Director Mr. Niroshan Udage to Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President. • LB Finance assured a continued commitment to extending further support to the Government’s future relief initiatives.
🚨 Bybit Donates US$100,000 for Sri Lanka Cyclone Relief
• Bybit, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange, has announced an emergency humanitarian aid contribution of $100,000 to support communities devastated by severe flooding and Cyclone Ditwah across Southeast Asia, with a primary focus on Sri Lanka. • Sri Lanka Impact: The disaster has claimed 123 lives and displaced over 44,000 people in the country. The nation is also battling widespread landslides, damaged infrastructure, and suspended public services. • Deployment: The $100,000 donation is being coordinated directly with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to fund immediate relief operations, emergency shelters, essential supplies (food, clean water), and medical aid. • Regionally, the floods have caused over 420 fatalities across Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. • Bybit stated its commitment to long-term recovery efforts alongside local partners.
📈 Ceylon Chamber Reroutes Summit Funds to Cyclone Ditwah Relief & Focuses on National Recovery
• The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) expresses deep sorrow over the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, acknowledging the loss of lives and severe disruption to livelihoods. • CCC is actively mobilising resources, working closely with Government agencies and members to coordinate urgent relief efforts and support the affected communities. • Critical Change: The Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit will proceed, but all social events have been canceled. • Relief Contribution: All funds originally allocated for the canceled social events will be donated directly to support the national relief efforts. • The Summit's revised focus is now to serve as an essential forum for collective reflection, policy dialogue, and strategic discussions on the road to recovery and strengthening national resilience. • The CCC affirms the private sector's critical role in rebuilding a stronger, more stable Sri Lanka and calls for a united national effort for long-term progress.
Prima Group Pledges Over Rs. 300 Mn for Flood Relief 💧
• Prima Group Sri Lanka has committed assistance valued at over Rs. 300 Million (Rs. 300 Mn) to support communities affected by recent floods across the island. • The relief consists of essential Prima food products and dry rations. • The initiative is being coordinated through the Ministry of Defence to ensure timely and effective distribution to impacted families in severely affected districts. • A significant consignment of supplies was officially handed over to the Government of Sri Lanka on November 30. • This donation reflects the group’s broader commitment to supporting national recovery efforts in collaboration with Government Authorities.
MAS Holdings Champions D&I as UN Global Compact Patron 🤝
• Apparel & Textiles giant MAS Holdings has been invited to be the Patron of the Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Working Group of the UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka. This extends its influence to shape the national ecosystem for ethical and sustainable enterprises. • Workforce & Culture: With over 95,000 employees across 13 countries, 70% of the workforce are women. D&I is embedded in its business strategy and safeguarded by policies, with inclusion metrics integrated into management performance evaluations. • Women Empowerment: The flagship Women Go Beyond (WGB) program, launched in 2003, has generated over 5.5 million opportunities since inception. In 2024, more than 300,000 women benefited from training on career advancement, life skills, SRHR, and GBV awareness. • Inclusion Beyond Gender: The company has expanded its focus to support people of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and persons with disabilities. This is complemented by family-friendly policies, including childcare facilities at 36 global locations. • Industry Impact: MAS is actively sharing its D&I expertise, notably through a collaboration with the International Trade Centre’s GTEX Program, where it supports 9 SMEs in the textile sector on women’s empowerment and related awareness programs.
🇱🇰 Teejay Lanka Leads Regional Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative 📈
Teejay Lanka PLC has been appointed Patron of the UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka’s Sustainable Supply Chain and SMEs Working Group, highlighting its role in driving ethical and transparent practices within the apparel & textiles sector. • Climate & Decarbonisation: The company’s emission reduction targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The FY 2024/25 total GHG inventory was 676,666.38 t CO₂ eq. Scope 3 emissions represent approximately 85% of the total, underscoring the focus on value-chain accountability (Purchased Goods/Services and Processing of Sold Products). • Traceability & Digital: Teejay utilizes a multi-platform digital framework (TextileGenesis, Origin) for raw material traceability. It is developing a QR Traceability Project to align with future EU regulations like the Digital Product Passport (DPP) and CSRD. • Circularity & Waste: The company achieved a remarkable 64% overall waste-diversion rate in FY 2024/25 (38% recycled, 26% reused), supporting its Abhivarah 2030 'Waste to Wealth' vision. • ESG Performance: High operational standards were confirmed by exceptional average Higg FEM scores (Teejay Lanka 99%, Teejay India 97%, Teejay Prints 91%). The firm is also aligning its reporting with IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards (S1 and S2) from FY 2024/25. Teejay’s role involves building capacity for SMEs and suppliers to meet global sustainability benchmarks, acting as a crucial bridge between regional manufacturers and international buyers.
🌧️ Under-15 Prima Super League Final Postponed
• The final encounter of the Under-15 Super League, sponsored by Ceylon Ageo Industries (Prima Group Sri Lanka), has been postponed. • Reason: Inclement weather conditions. • The match was originally scheduled to be played today (Nov 28) at Thurstan ground. • A new date for the final will be notified in due course. • Prima Group has been sponsoring this league for the 18th year in tandem.
📈 CATALYZE 2025: SL Business Leaders Push Sustainable Growth & Action
• The UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka, in partnership with UNFPA and The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, convened CATALYZE 2025 to accelerate Sri Lanka's sustainability and responsible business agenda. • Economic & Finance Outlooks: • ADB's Principal Economics Officer analyzed "Global Headwinds, Fiscal Transitions, and the Unshaken Case for Sustainable Growth." • IFC's Principal Country Officer highlighted pathways for "Financing the Future" by mobilizing private capital for sustainable development. • Key Milestones: Launched the UNFPA SL–UN Global Compact Network SL In-Country Hub for Gender Equality & Women’s Empowerment and the Coalition for Reproductive Justice in Business. • Core Business Themes & Workshops: • Focus areas included masterclasses on Digital Supply Chain Transformation and practical integration of Human Rights into business operations. • Environmental action sessions covered Climate Action (NDC 3.0 implementation, industrial decarbonization), Ocean Stewardship, and integrated Water Stewardship. • A session on GS1 standards and Supply Chain Traceability demonstrated boosting market access through digital passports. • Discussions emphasized how advancing women's leadership and broader workplace Inclusion strengthen business resilience and productivity.
🌊 SL & the 'Doomsday Glacier': Urgent Sea Level Rise Threat
• Global climate leadership lacks urgency, as the recent COP30 in Belém, Brazil, concluded with a "watered-down agreement," failing to include specific details on ending fossil fuels. • Sri Lanka is positioned as facing a critical threat, with the analogy of Colombo becoming a "Venice in the Indian Ocean" used to underscore the potential risk. • Key Global Threat: The Thwaite Glacier in West Antarctica—nicknamed the "Doomsday Glacier"—is melting rapidly, a process accelerated by rising temperatures and potentially a geological 'hot spot' of active volcanoes. • Immediate Impact: • The current global sea level rise is 4.4 mm annually. • The disappearance of the Thwaite Glacier is expected to contribute an additional 65 cm of global sea level rise, likely within a decade. • National Concerns: • The stability of reclaimed land like Colombo Port City is questioned under this rising sea level scenario. • Saltwater intrusion is already a serious issue, impacting water intakes in major rivers like the Kelani, Kalu, and Nilwala, necessitating the discussion of salinity barriers. • While the CEA's R&D division has preliminary findings, resource limitations hinder a comprehensive mapping of the impact on Sri Lanka’s coastline.
DFCC Lists Sri Lanka's 1st Blue Bond on CSE 🌊
• National Milestone: DFCC Bank officially listed Sri Lanka's first ever Listed Blue Bond on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), marking a significant step for the country's capital markets and the transition towards ocean-focused sustainable finance. • Key Figures: The Blue Bond is a LKR 3 Billion, senior, rated, unsecured, and redeemable instrument. • Structure & Rating: Structured under DFCC's Sustainable Bond Framework, it carries a rating of A(lka) from Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited. The issue aligns with ICMA Green Bond Principles and IFC Blue Finance Guidelines. • Tenures: Offers 3-, 4-, and 5-year tenures with both annual-coupon and zero-coupon structures. • Purpose: The initiative aims to support coastal resilience, clean water, marine restoration, and other essential areas of national importance, ushering in a new focus for sustainable finance in Sri Lanka. • Market Impact: The CSE CEO noted that the bond places the market on a "global stage." NDB Investment Bank served as Joint Manager and Placement Agent for the issue.
📈 Cabinet OKs Rs. 24 Bn Norochcholai–Wariyapola Grid Upgrade; AIIB Financing Sought
Cabinet has authorized the CEB to proceed with the long-delayed Norochcholai–Wariyapola Transmission Development Project and initiate formal negotiations with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) for required financing. • Investment: The project is estimated to cost Rs. 24.06 Billion. • Key Impact: Designed to integrate over 750 MW of renewable energy (wind and solar) potential from the North Western Province into the national grid. • Rationale: Strengthens the main transmission backbone, addresses inadequate capacity causing network congestion, and prevents the curtailment of green power potential in one of Sri Lanka's most promising renewable energy zones (Puttalam/surrounding areas). • National Goal: The initiative is a top priority under the CEB’s Long-Term Transmission Plan and is crucial for supporting the national target of significantly expanding renewable energy generation by 2030.
📈 Landmark 10 MW Solar Installation Bolsters SL's Renewable Energy Push
• Macksons Solar and Macktiles have commissioned Sri Lanka's largest rooftop solar project at the Macktiles factory complex in Bandaragama. • This landmark facility has a capacity of 10 MW (Megawatts), featuring over 18,000 high-efficiency solar panels. • Energy & Environmental Impact: The system is projected to generate approximately 12 GWh of clean energy annually, leading to a reduction of about 8,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year. • The power generated directly services the manufacturing plant, minimizing its dependence on grid power while feeding surplus electricity back into the national energy network. • This achievement, designed and engineered by Macksons Solar's in-house team, reinforces Sri Lanka's transition towards clean energy and supports the national target of achieving 70% renewable energy by 2030.
Singer Finance Launches ESG Roadmap 2030 🚀
• Strategic Move: Singer Finance (Lanka) PLC has unveiled its 'ESG Roadmap 2030 – Where Dreams Take Flight,' under the theme “Progress Through Purpose,” aiming to fully integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance priorities. • Core Goal: The company seeks to position itself as a benchmark for ethical and inclusive finance in Sri Lanka, driving responsible and future-ready growth through measurable targets and clear policies. • Key Focus Areas: Initiatives highlighted include green financing, energy-efficient operations, human capital development, community empowerment, and enhanced governance. • Alignment: The roadmap complements the Singer Group ESG framework, Hayleys Group targets, national sustainability actions, UN SDGs, GRI reporting standards, and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s Roadmap for Sustainable Finance. • Commitment: All initiatives will be tracked and reported annually until 2030, reinforcing transparency and accountability.
VFS Global Partners Historic 1st Blind Women's T20 Cricket World Cup 2025 🏏
• VFS Global associated with the landmark 1st Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind 2025, celebrating talent and resilience. • The tournament was organised by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and notably co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. • The event represents a pivotal step for women's sports and disability inclusion, bringing together six nations to champion equality and recognition for women with visual impairments. • VFS Global’s support aligns with its commitment to empowering women and fostering inclusive communities globally. • The company congratulated the champions (India) and all participating teams for their inspiring performances, which are seen as encouraging future generations. • CABI welcomed the partnership, aiming to build a long-term collaboration to drive meaningful opportunities and deeper visibility for blind women’s cricket.
🤝 Pan Asia Bank Pushes Green Mobility with Deepal EV Leasing.
• Pan Asia Bank (PABC) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Prime EV Automobiles, the authorised representative for Deepal electric vehicles (EVs) in Sri Lanka. • The collaboration aims to accelerate EV adoption by promoting eco-friendly leasing solutions, including PABC’s 'EV Plus' product. • Prime EV customers can access exclusive, customised leasing packages and streamlined financing to make EV ownership more accessible and affordable. • This initiative supports Sri Lanka's green transition towards sustainable transport, reinforcing PABC's role as a pioneer in green lending and leasing.
📈 World Bank Commits US$ 2.5 Bn for Asia-Pacific Energy Transition
• Overview: The World Bank has launched a US$ 2.5 billion Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA) to significantly scale up renewable energy and support power sector decarbonization across the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region. • Context: The program aims to address the region's challenge of strong economic growth running parallel with high fossil fuel use, as EAP now accounts for over a third of global emissions. • Structure & Financing: The 10-year program, active until 2034, utilizes US$ 2.5 Bn (IDA/IBRD) to strengthen institutions, finance regional and national transmission infrastructure, and de-risk clean energy investments to mobilize private sector participation. • Key Targets (By 2034): • Enable 2.5 GW of renewable energy generation capacity. • Mobilize US$ 1.5 billion of private investment in clean energy. • Provide new or improved access to clean energy for 20 million people. • Result in a net reduction of 60 million tons of CO₂.
🤝 Citrus Leisure PLC & Indira Cancer Trust Partner for Monthly 'Wish Day' Experiences.
• Landmark initiative: Citrus Leisure PLC and Indira Cancer Trust (hosting Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka) signed an MoU to provide hope and memorable family experiences for children battling critical illnesses. • Key Commitment: Citrus, a leading hospitality brand, will sponsor a monthly celebratory buffet meal and hospitality experience for 'wish children' and their immediate families. • Venue & Scope: The special 'Wish Day' event will be held at the iconic Blue Orbit by Citrus, located at the Colombo Lotus Tower. Approximately 8-10 guests monthly will enjoy dinner, a visit to the 3D experience/viewing deck, and receive a gift. • Duration & Impact: The partnership is initially set for one year, establishing a unique and sustainable model of corporate compassion and joy-giving in the Sri Lankan hospitality sector. 💙
📈 Union Bank Panel Charts Course for Sustainable Finance
Union Bank recently conducted a key panel discussion, featuring industry experts, to share insights on the critical role of sustainable finance in Sri Lanka's economic future. • The discussion provided highlights across several vital areas for national development: • Climate finance and green investment strategies. • The economic transition towards the digital economy. • Importance of women financing and empowerment initiatives. • Promoting social entrepreneurship. • The panel featured representatives from major stakeholders, including the Sri Lanka Banks’ Association, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, Hayleys PLC, UNDP, and UNIDO, emphasizing a collaborative approach to sustainability.
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (MBFW) Day 3: Focus on Future Craft 👗
• Event: The MBFW, presented by the Academy of Design (AOD) and powered by DIMO, held its "Future Craft Runway" on Friday at Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams. • Participation: Day 3 showcased 18 fashion brands and designers. • Key Theme: The focus was on redefining the Sri Lankan apparel & textiles industry through sustainable creativity and advanced craftsmanship. • Economic Outlook: The event highlighted efforts to honour local heritage and successfully adapt these traditional styles and techniques for a global future, supporting value addition and diversification in the sector.
🌿 Aberdeen Holdings Deepens Green Commitment with Major Certification!
A diversified conglomerate operating across 8+ industries, Aberdeen Holdings, has achieved a key sustainability milestone: • Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Verification Certification under the ISO 14064-1:2018 standard. • This validates the Group's commitment to transparently measuring, managing, and reporting GHG emissions according to international best practices. • The initiative aligns with its vision to build a greener, more resilient Sri Lanka and contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). • Sustainability is core to the Group’s portfolio, which includes energy and eco-solutions, logistics and packaging, agri and commodities, healthcare, and aviation. • Subsidiaries like Ex-Pack Corrugated Cartons PLC, Hienergy Services, and Neptune Recyclers are driving innovation in renewable energy, carbon-neutral manufacturing, and circular economy solutions.
UNICEF’s ‘Little Amaya’ Child Rights Exhibit Opens in Colombo 🎨
• The official 'Little Amaya – See Me, Hear Me' immersive child rights experience and art exhibition was launched yesterday at the Lotus Tower, marking World Children’s Day. • The initiative is led by UNICEF Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Department of Probation and Child Care Services (DPCCS) and the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA). • The four-day exhibit, open until 24 November (10 a.m. – 10 p.m.), uses interactive technology and the character Little Amaya to bring rights like protection, participation, and expression to life in a playful, relatable way. • Complementing the experience is a vibrant art exhibition featuring over 200 self-portraits and creative pieces co-created by children from diverse backgrounds across the island. • UNICEF Representative Emma Brigham underscored the significance of listening to children, stating that participation is a right and creates better decision-making processes.
🤝 Dialog & JICA Renew Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Progress
Dialog Axiata PLC has renewed its strategic partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to drive positive transformation and sustainable progress across Sri Lanka. • Core Mission: To amplify outcomes of ongoing and future development projects, focusing on national resilience and socio-economic development, especially for vulnerable communities. • Key Focus Areas for Collaboration: • Strengthening initiatives in Digital Transformation, Financial Inclusion, Gender Equality, Disaster Risk Reduction, Education, and Agriculture. • Since 2023, JICA has also partnered on Dialog’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs. • Future Strategic Emphasis: • Greater focus on Renewable Energy projects. • Implementing Women's Empowerment programs for independence and self-reliance in rural communities. • Driving joint efforts for Poverty Alleviation and combating gender-based violence through awareness campaigns. • Joint Vision: Leverage JICA's global development expertise and Dialog's cutting-edge technological capabilities to deliver scalable, people-focused solutions to address Sri Lanka’s pressing challenges.
Zonta Club II Hosts Program on Invisible Scars of Emotional Abuse
• The Zonta Club II of Colombo recently hosted an impactful program focused on "Raising Awareness, Understanding and Preventing Emotional Abuse" under the theme, "Some Scars Are Invisible – Speak Up, Seek Support." • The event aimed to train first responders, including police, teachers, and HR professionals, to compassionately identify and support victims. • Legal Insights: Attorney-at-Law Jerusha Crosette-Thambiah highlighted limited legal protection for women in property matters solely registered under the husband's name. She strongly advised couples to maintain joint bank accounts and shared ownership, stressing that financial independence is essential for security. • Psychological Impact: Clinical Psychologist Dr. Ransirini De Silva explained that emotional abuse leaves invisible scars but causes deep trauma, long-term mental health issues, and can unintentionally pass distress to children. She noted key warning signs like fearfulness, withdrawal, and low self-confidence. • Societal & Workplace Stress: Speakers discussed the burden on working women balancing professional life and homemaking, citing issues like gender bias, rivalry, and societal pressure leading to emotional strain. • The program formed part of Zonta's global "16 Days of Activism" campaign against violence towards women.
👗 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kicks Off with Sustainability Focus
• The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (MBFW) commenced its Talent Runway on Wednesday at Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams. • The event was presented by AOD Academy of Design and powered by DIMO, showcasing 50 collections. • The central theme for the designs was climate change, reflecting motifs such as fire, cyclones, and molten rocks. • AOD, noted as a sustainable university, emphasized utilizing regenerated and deadstock textiles. • This initiative aims to position the apparel & textiles industry as regenerative and revive island craft heritage for modern, international markets. 🌎
Yaala Labs Implements P8 Platform for Climate Impact X 📈
• Global market infrastructure provider Yaala Labs successfully deployed its cloud-native P8 platform for Climate Impact X (CIX), a major player in environmental products and carbon markets. • The P8 platform now powers CIX’s Exchange and Auction services, unifying all their trading venues (Exchange, Marketplace, Clear, and Auction) onto a single, seamless system. • This key integration provides clients with significant upgrades, including simpler access, faster trade execution and settlement, and enhanced portfolio/custody capabilities for managing environmental contracts. • CIX, headquartered in Singapore with offices in London, is backed by institutional giants like DBS Bank, Singapore Exchange (SGX Group), Japan’s Mizuho Financial Group, and Standard Chartered. • The successful launch demonstrates the global reach and utility of specialized financial technology solutions, reinforcing the expertise within the broader ICT/BPM sector for next-generation market infrastructure.
MAS Holdings Sweeps National Cleaner Production Awards 2025 🏆
• MAS Holdings secured multiple honours—Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Merit—at the National Cleaner Production Awards 2025, recognising their commitment to operational efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and circularity. • Awards were given in the Large-Scale Manufacturing category for Apparel & Textiles sectors. • Key Wins - Apparel Sector: • Gold: Silueta (Biyagama). • Silver: MAS Intimates Slimtex Division (Kuliyapitiya) & Bodyline (Horana). • Bronze/Merit: MAS Active Kreeda Shadeline (Mahiyanganaya) & Contourline Division (Pallekele). • Key Wins - Textile Sector: • Gold: MAS Active Linea Intimo (Biyagama). • Silver/Merit: MAS Fabrics Intimo Division (Thulhiriya) & Noyon Lanka (Biyagama). • The achievement reinforces MAS’s sustainability efforts under its broader "Plan for Change 2030" strategy, supporting Sri Lanka's shift towards resource efficiency and a responsible manufacturing ecosystem.
♻️ EU-Funded 'PLASTICS' Project Boosts Western Province Sustainability
• The "PLASTICS" project, a four-year initiative launched in 2022, is funded by the European Union. • Its core objective is to promote sustainable industry practices, focusing implementation in the Western Province. • Key collaborative partners for the project include the Industry Service Bureau, Acted Sri Lanka, Biodiversity Sri Lanka, Stenum Asia, and TeRi.
📈 Singer Unveils ESG Roadmap 2030: "Progress Through Purpose"
Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC (Hayleys Group) has launched its comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Roadmap 2030, themed "Progress Through Purpose." • The initiative aims to integrate sustainability across all business operations, aligning with the Hayleys Lifecode, UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and global frameworks (GRI Standards, SLFRS S1 & S2). • Key Objectives & Pillars: The roadmap is guided by four core pillars: • Energy Purpose: Focus on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and enhancing energy efficiency through renewable initiatives like solar power integration. • Environment Purpose: Strengthening circularity, implementing waste reduction, sustainable packaging, and introducing nationwide e-waste collection via 400+ retail outlets. • Humanity Purpose: Boosting community engagement, expanding CSR, and promoting inclusivity to uplift lives. • Winning Purpose: Emphasizing employee wellbeing, strong governance, ethical conduct, and transparency. • The company is committed to empowering Sri Lankan households with sustainable choices and contributing meaningfully to national climate and development goals by 2030.
PickMe's 'Nena Pahana' Boosts Driver Families' Education 🎓
• PickMe, a leading digital mobility platform, held its ninth consecutive 'Nena Pahana' event, aiming to foster belonging and recognise the families of its independent micro-entrepreneur drivers in the platform economy. • 2025 Impact: Over 650 school-going children of drivers were supported with vouchers for school supplies. Ten top G.C.E. A/L students who secured university admission also received laptops. • Financial Commitment: Rs. 9 Mn was allocated for the initiative this year. PickMe has invested over Rs. 29 Mn in 'Nena Pahana' since its inception in 2018, benefiting over 4,800 students in total. • Eligibility & Scope: Support is tied to driver excellence (Gold/Platinum tiers in Loyalty Ranking) and academic achievement (e.g., Grade 5 Scholarship, O/L 9 A's, university admission). • Wider Support: This is part of a comprehensive program for driver-partners, which also facilitates a Rs. 3 Mn personal accident insurance cover (critical illness, hospitalisation, etc.) in partnership with Co-Operative Insurance Company PLC.
Govt. Launches Pipeline Irrigation Pilots to Combat Drought 💧🌾
• The Cabinet has approved four pilot pipeline irrigation projects in the North Western & Uva provinces to modernise agriculture and enhance climate resilience in drought-prone dry zones. • Objective: To replace traditional open irrigation channels with a pipeline distribution system to significantly reduce water wastage, improve crop yields, and minimise crop losses due to drought and intense rains. • Scope: The pilots will cover a total agricultural area of 877 hectares, testing three distinct pipeline irrigation models. • Funding Breakdown: • Total investment is US$ 4.98 Mn. • US$ 3.3 Mn grant from the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific (JFPR), channelled via ADB. • US$ 1.68 Mn contribution from the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL). • The initiative also aims to encourage small landowners to cultivate higher-value food crops and increase female participation in the agricultural sector.
📈 Prof. Kotler Unveils New Values-Driven 6Ps Marketing Framework
• The Father of Modern Marketing, Prof. Philip Kotler, outlined a fresh, values-driven 6Ps framework during a discussion with Sri Lankan veteran marketer Denzil Perera. This evolution shifts marketing beyond commercial tactics to a broader human, social, and planetary context. • The new model is designed to help organizations be responsible, relevant, and future-fit, aligning with sustainability and stakeholder capitalism. • The six core, interconnected Ps are: 1. Purpose: The foundational "why" beyond profit; a strategic engine to align employees and attract conscious consumers. 2. People: Prioritizing internal culture and employee experience, alongside customers and communities. 3. Partnerships: Emphasizing collaboration (co-petition) for innovation and market access, deemed highly powerful for emerging markets like Sri Lanka. 4. Peace: Ensuring non-toxic culture internally, marketplace stability, and reducing customer anxiety/friction. 5. Planet: Mandating sustainability by design, responsible sourcing, and addressing environmental externalities (pollution, waste). 6. Prosperity: Shared, sustained prosperity for all stakeholders, moving beyond narrow shareholder 'Profit'. • The framework's core message: Do well, but do good first, making it applicable to businesses globally, including developing markets and public institutions.
Allianz Lanka boosts biodiversity conservation 🌳
• Allianz Insurance Lanka has partnered with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) to support its Preserving Land and Nature (PLANT) initiative. • Crucial Mechanism: Allianz will contribute funds for reforestation and habitat restoration for every Motor and Travel Insurance policy sold from October 30, 2025, onwards. • The PLANT initiative, a flagship WNPS project, focuses on building forest corridors, ecosystem restoration, and promoting biodiversity and climate resilience. • Scope: The project currently operates across 33 locations, home to over 1,250 species (including 125 endangered ones), and is actively creating over 25 km of forest corridors. • This initiative aligns with Allianz Group’s global ESG strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasizing environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
🚨 SL Sports Governance Reform: Prof. Dickson Urges Cultural Shift
• The National Olympic Council of Sri Lanka (NOCSL) hosted a seminar on 'Strengthening Good Governance in Sri Lanka Sports Organisations'. • Key Speaker: Prof. Geoffrey Dickson from La Trobe University, Australia, addressing sports leaders and Ministry officials. • Core Focus: Discussing integrity, accountability, and the urgent need for governance reform in the sector. • NOCSL highlighted the necessity to rebuild structures to restore crucial international confidence and funding. • Prof. Dickson stressed that successful reform requires a deep cultural transformation within sporting bodies, going beyond just regulations. • Key Takeaway: While governance provides the rules, organisational culture gives those rules life and ultimately determines success. • This initiative reinforces NOCSL’s ongoing commitment to promoting integrity and ethical leadership across the Sri Lankan sporting landscape.
BOC Plans Rs. 10 Bn Sustainability Bond Issue to Boost Capital 📈
• Bank of Ceylon (BOC) is set to issue up to Rs. 10 billion in Basel III-compliant, Tier 2, unsecured, subordinated, redeemable 5-year Sustainability Bonds with non-viability write-down features. • The initial issuance aims to raise Rs. 10 Bn (100 million bonds at Rs. 100 each). • Upsize Potential: Due to potential oversubscription, the total potential issuance could reach Rs. 20 billion across two tranches (Rs. 10 Bn initial + two Rs. 5 Bn optional tranches). • Key Objective: Proceeds will strengthen the bank's Tier 2 capital base and fund sustainability-linked financing activities. • The issuance is currently subject to obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals, including from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka Achieves Global Recognition for Responsible Tourism Excellence 🏆
Sri Lanka has secured three major accolades at the prestigious Global Responsible Tourism Awards 2025, held alongside the World Travel Market in London. The awards, now in their 20th year, highlight the country's growing commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism. • Total Wins: Three Sri Lankan organisations/initiatives were recognised among 30 global changemakers. • Key Winners & Categories: • Heritance Kandalama Hotel: Silver Award for Climate Adaptation and Resilience. Recognised for its long-term, integrated regenerative tourism model. • Jetwing Vil Uyana: Finalist Award for Nature Positive. Commended for transforming degraded land into a biodiverse wetland supporting over 300 species. • Heel Oya Community Based Tourism (CBT) Village: Finalist Award for All-Inclusive Tourism. Praised for immersive, community-based packages integrating local gastronomy, trekking, and traditional agriculture. • National Impact: This recognition brings valuable international visibility, strengthening Sri Lanka's reputation as a sustainable and inclusive travel destination on the global map.
📈 The Cost of Silence: Cyberbullying, Systemic Norms, and Mental Health Dialogue
• The tragic passing of American chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky has initiated a critical dialogue on relentless online abuse (unfounded cheating accusations) and the societal normalization of silence in the face of harassment. • Systemic Flaw: The article argues that silence often appears as the most rational response across online platforms, universities, and workplaces. This is due to the high personal and professional costs of speaking up, such as reputational damage and social exclusion, which are unevenly distributed. • Cultural Pressures: Environments often reward emotional restraint and "toughening up," while vulnerability or mental health struggles are implicitly judged or treated as an indulgence to be managed privately. • Regional Context: In settings like South Asian universities, pressures are intensified where deference, seniority, and institutional loyalty govern what individuals feel they can express, making quiet endurance a strategy for self-preservation and advancement. • Collective Responsibility: The focus must shift from individual toughness to structural reform. Authorities must alter the perceived cost of seeking support by ensuring that an acknowledgment of difficulty will not result in informal penalties, establishing a clear distinction between legitimate critique and personal degradation.
📈 Hayleys Fentons Unveils ‘The Green Blueprint’ ESG Roadmap 2030
• Hayleys Fentons Limited, a leading Solar EPC and MEP contractor, launched its detailed ‘The Green Blueprint – ESG Roadmap 2030’ in September, aligning its long-term business strategy with environmental stewardship and social impact. • This marks the company as Sri Lanka's first Solar EPC and MEP contractor to publish a comprehensive ESG roadmap with specific 2030 targets, guided by the Hayleys Lifecode and UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). • The framework centers on four pillars: Earth Stewardship, People-Centric Partnerships, Quality and Credibility, and Good Governance. • Key 2030 Targets: • Target 70% clean energy use across its operations. • Achieve Zero Waste to Landfill by strengthening circular economy practices. • Enhance biodiversity initiatives, including mangrove restoration. • Deepen ESG governance through alignment with international standards (GRI, ISO 14064, SLFRS S1/S2). • Accelerate employee development and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. • The company currently boasts key achievements like installing over 500 MW of Solar PV capacity across Sri Lanka and diverting 99.98% of waste to the circular economy. • The roadmap is designed to embed sustainability into the operational fabric and strategy, driving long-term value and resilience.
📈 KALBE Launches 'Test for Them' for World Diabetes Day 2025
• KALBE Sri Lanka has launched the ‘Test for Them’ nationwide diabetes awareness initiative, focusing on early detection and prevention for World Diabetes Day 2025. • The campaign addresses a critical national health issue: over 4.2 million Sri Lankans are affected by diabetes, with an estimated 40% being undiagnosed. • Initial Screening Phase (Nov 14-30): Free random glucose testing is offered on a walk-in basis at 42 Cargills Food City outlets across the Western Province (the region with the highest diabetes prevalence). • Target Goals: The program aims to screen over 12,000 individuals in November, setting the foundation for a goal of 100,000 screenings over the next 12 months. • Screenings are available for individuals aged 18 and above and include educational materials and Diabetasol sample kits. The initiative collaborates with the Seeni.lk trilingual online health platform.
📈 SL Boards: Shifting from Survival to Sustainability Governance
The global conversation on sustainability is moving from mere compliance to strategic governance, demanding greater board accountability and competency. • New Era of Governance: The introduction of IFRS S1 and S2 signals that sustainability is now linked directly to financial governance and board accountability, positioning it as a path to resilience and shared value for Sri Lankan companies. • Competency & Accountability: • Competency must be demonstrable—not self-declared—to properly oversee risks like climate resilience, fair work, and resource efficiency. Accountability without competency is fragile. • Accountability must be cascaded through the organisation using measurable, tangible KPIs. Boards should prioritize leading indicators (e.g., project completion) that measure execution over purely outcome-based metrics. • Strategic Integration: Sustainability must be embedded into Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) to holistically assess exposure and capitalize on transition opportunities. • SL Context & Way Forward: • Sri Lankan boards must shift their focus from survival to deeply integrating sustainability into growth strategies, risk frameworks, and performance measurement (Anushka Wijesinha). • The entire board must understand double materiality, balancing financial impact (IFRS) with societal/environmental impact (GRI) for long-term credibility. • Linking remuneration to verified sustainability metrics, though currently limited in Sri Lanka, is a powerful lever to signal shared performance responsibility.
📈 US$5.8 Mn Kunming Fund Boosts SL Biosecurity & Agrifood Systems
• The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has helped seven developing countries, including Sri Lanka, secure a total of US$ 5.8 million in financing from the Kunming Biodiversity Fund (KBF). • The funding aims to integrate biodiversity into agrifood systems and drive action under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). • Sri Lanka's specific project is focused on the "Prevention and control of invasive alien species for enhanced biosecurity". • Key activities for the Sri Lankan initiative include: strengthening national capacity, improving border controls, training frontline teams, and engaging communities in removal efforts and awareness campaigns. • Other recipient countries include Madagascar, Uganda, Mexico, Cook Islands, Nepal, and Türkiye, with projects targeting sustainable agriculture, ecosystem protection, and knowledge management. • The KBF, launched by China in 2021, is instrumental in helping developing countries achieve global biodiversity goals through sustainable agriculture.
🇱🇰 Hirdaramani Redefines Responsible Manufacturing with 'Future First' Strategy 🌿
• Hirdaramani Group's 'Future First' Sustainability Roadmap, built on four core pillars (Conserve Environment, Empower Associates, Support Communities, Trust in Good Choices), is driving its operations across Apparel, Renewable Energy, and other sectors. • The commitment to aligning business success with environmental and social responsibility was highly recognised at the 2025 Presidential Environment Awards, Sri Lanka's highest honour for environmental excellence. • Four of the Group's facilities in the Apparel Industries and Textile Processing categories received top honours: • Gold Award: Hirdaramani Kahathuduwa (LEED Platinum, 100% Renewable Energy via solar/biomass). • Silver Award: Hirdaramani Ja-Ela (Washing) (ZDHC Supplier-to-Zero, initiated wetland restoration). • Bronze Award: Hirdaramani Kuruwita (LEED Platinum). • Merit Award: Hirdaramani Seethawaka. • Demonstrating global climate leadership, Hirdaramani achieved the first Net-Zero target approval by a Sri Lankan organization in 2024 under the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). • This purpose-led progress, shaped by integrity and innovation, involves the collective effort of over 55,000+ employees globally.
📈 SDF Rings CSE Bell for Landmark Sustainable Bond
• Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC (SDF) celebrated the issuance of Sri Lanka's first combined High-Yield Sustainable Bond by ringing the market opening bell at the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). • The Tier 2, rated bond was highly successful, being oversubscribed within hours of its listing on October 8, 2025. • SDF aimed to raise a total of Rs. 2 Billion through the bond, which reinforces the organisation's commitment to ethical finance and social empowerment through the capital market. • Proceeds will strengthen SDF's Tier 2 capital base and support the expansion of its sustainable and inclusive financing initiatives focused on social and environmental impact goals. • Key areas targeted for funding include Women’s Empowerment, Community Empowerment, and financing Sustainable Agriculture and rural development, in line with the Sarvodaya Movement's 'Grama Swaraj' vision.
💡 US$ 30 Million IFC Loan Approved for Sustainable Energy
• Cabinet has approved a US$ 30 Million loan from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group. • The financing is dedicated to the "Secure, Bearable and Sustainable Energy Project." • Key objectives include advancing Sri Lanka’s energy security and accelerating the clean power transition. • Funds will be channeled to the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) or its affiliated entities as a sub-loan for project implementation. • The funding is expected to support crucial improvements in power system reliability, affordability, and sustainability. • Loan term negotiations with the IFC are currently underway, ensuring compliance with prudent Public Debt Management Office recommendations.
📰 People's Bank Boosts Financial Inclusion at FinLit Expo Galle 2025
• People's Bank actively participated in the FinLit Expo Galle 2025, organized by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), to reaffirm its commitment to advancing financial literacy and inclusion nationwide. • The Bank engaged with the public, offering valuable insights on key areas like digital banking, investment strategies, and smart money management. • Innovative digital solutions were showcased to simplify financial transactions and enhance customer convenience. • This initiative strengthens People's Bank's role in championing digital empowerment and sustainable banking practices, thereby supporting the country’s economic progress.
💡 SL Women in Tech Push for AI Inclusion & Digital Leadership
• The Women in Tech – Chapter Reignite event marked the relaunch of the Sri Lankan Chapter, calling for greater inclusion and leadership opportunities for women in the country’s tech and AI space. • Digital Economy Context: The discussion comes as Sri Lanka's digital economy is gaining momentum, with the government aiming for growth from US$ 3 Billion to US$ 12 Billion by 2030. • Key Challenge: While a significant share of graduates are women in science/engineering, far fewer pursue IT/Technology, representing a gap and "lost potential" for innovation in the ICT/BPM sector. • AI Imperative: Speakers emphasized that everyone must embrace AI for business relevance and innovation, stressing that the journey of AI adoption must be fully inclusive ("no one should be left behind"). • Strategic Focus: Crucial need for a clear national strategy to position Sri Lanka in the global AI race, urging a shift from discussion to rapid implementation. • Inclusion & Localization: Beyond strengthening the women's pipeline, there is a strong need for localization in AI. This means ensuring local voices are heard and incorporating Sri Lankan culture, heritage, and sufficient data sets into AI tools. • Women are urged to actively engage with AI, continuously self-learn, and seize equal opportunity to elevate their roles from participants to leaders and decision-makers in the new era.
🇱🇰 Minor Hotels Expands 'Dollars for Deeds' CSR, Partners Ayati Trust
• Minor Hotels, a major global hospitality chain, has formally launched its signature Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, 'Dollars for Deeds,' in Sri Lanka through a partnership with the Ayati Trust. • The collaboration is aimed at supporting children with disabilities, ensuring they receive equal access to education, healthcare, and social participation. • Initial Contribution: The Group marked the formal partnership by donating Rs. 5 million to the Ayati Trust and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). • ‘Dollars for Deeds’ Structure: Guests are invited to voluntarily contribute $1 per night, which the hotel subsequently matches dollar-for-dollar to multiply the positive social outcome. • Ayati Trust, the national centre providing crucial diagnostic, therapeutic, and educational services free of charge to over 14,000 registered children, noted the timely support helps address significant running costs. • Minor Hotels stated the move aligns with their vision to extend hospitality beyond the guest experience to generate a lasting, positive influence on the communities they serve.
🏆 Elephant House Super Heroes S3 Crowns Youth Innovation Champions
The Grand Finale of Elephant House Super Heroes Season 3, a national youth empowerment initiative backed by the Ministry of Education, was held on October 18, 2025. • Scale & Impact: Over 135 schools islandwide competed in the program, which focuses on developing practical, real-world skills from concept phase to market commercialization. • Categories & Winners: Students showcased ingenuity across three key sectors: • Super Chef: Pallekanugala Kanishta Vidyalaya • Super Harvester (sustainability/agriculture): Bandaragama Central College • Super Entrepreneur (business/innovation): Thambuttegama Central College • Development Focus: The initiative successfully nurtured leadership, skill development, and purpose-driven growth, reflecting a national push to move education beyond the classroom to build future leaders and professionals. • Mentorship: The program included hands-on training, product pitching, and exposure through site visits to John Keells Research Labs and Cinnamon Hospitality Academy.
Sri Lanka Pioneers Global Sustainability Reporting with New SLFRS S1 & S2 Framework 📈
• The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) has launched a "Preparers’ Guide to SLFRS S1 and S2" and a course to implement new sustainability reporting standards across the country. • This decisive action positions Sri Lanka as one of the first jurisdictions globally, and among the first in South Asia, to formally adopt and implement the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) standards. • The new framework (SLFRS S1 & S2) mandates that companies disclose how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors impact their financial performance and future prospects. • This strategic adoption is designed to attract sustainable investment and bolster long-term economic resilience by signaling a robust national commitment to transparent and reliable reporting to international markets. • CA Sri Lanka, as the sole standard-setting body, is providing a Sri Lanka-centric resource guide and a "Certified Sustainability Reporting and Strategy Adviser Course" to ensure effective and expert-led implementation.
🏆 Dialog President's Gold Cup 2025 Volleyball Champions Crowned! 🏐
• The finals on November 1st at Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium celebrated the two-decade-long partnership between Dialog Axiata PLC and Volleyball, Sri Lanka's national sport. • Men's Champions: Debagama Rantharu Sports Club clinched the title, winning a pulsating five-set final (3-2) against Ruwanwella Rajasinghe Sports Club (25–18, 26–24, 21–25, 21–25, 15–13). • The final underscored the strong talent pool in Sabaragamuwa Province, where both finalists originated. • Most Outstanding Male Player: S.R.J. Dissanayake (Rantharu). • Women's Champions: Mahauswewa Rathanapala Sports Club secured the win, defeating Mahawa Wijayaba Sports Club with a 3-1 set victory (25–21, 25–17, 15–25, 25–23). • The performance of the youthful, school-aged Wijayaba team was highlighted for their composure. • Most Outstanding Female Player: Preethika Prabodhini (Mahauswewa). • Dialog Axiata PLC's commitment to local sport extends beyond Volleyball, encompassing sponsorship of national Cricket and Esports teams.
🌍 Selyn Foundation Spotlights SL's Climate-Conscious Menstrual Justice Fight Globally
• The Selyn Foundation was the only Sri Lankan representative invited to speak at the 3rd International Conference on Public Health and Nutrition (ICPHN 2025) in India. • Program Director Shanuki de Alwis presented the successful #BleedGood Initiative, showcasing Sri Lanka's evidence-based efforts to achieve "climate-conscious menstrual justice." • The presentation, 'Adolescents, Access and Awakenings,' detailed the initiative's unique multi-stakeholder approach, which combines Femme-Care reusable menstrual products with vital education and awareness. • Key outcomes highlighted include significant, sustainable positive impact by reducing environmental harm, lowering long-term costs, and improving adolescent health and psychosocial outcomes (e.g., school attendance) compared to single-use disposables. • The model emphasizes fostering climate-conscious behavior, illustrating how reusable solutions offer a critical intersectional opportunity for public health and environmental action.
New Polythene Bag Levy Sparks Debate on 'Eco-Economy' 📈
Effective 1 November 2025, Sri Lankan consumers are now subject to a levy of Rs. 3–5 for a simple polythene bag. The new charge, intended to discourage use, has drawn criticism for creating a new business model where "eco" becomes an economy. • The core issue raised is the transfer of value: bags costing cents to produce are sold to consumers for Rs. 3–5, with retailers and intermediaries pocketing the margin, potentially acting as an unaudited penalty on ordinary life. • The article argues that alternatives often involve a higher hidden cost. Products in perceived "eco" materials (e.g., glass) are priced significantly higher (e.g., same juice in glass at Rs. 400+ vs. PET at Rs. 180), and materials like paper can be more water/energy-intensive to produce than lightweight polythene. • True sustainability, it suggests, requires a system-focused approach over product bans. The recommendation is to re-engineer collection, segregation, and cycling systems for the most efficient materials. • A key proposal is to transparently ring-fence the collected bag levy funds specifically for audited waste management and recycling infrastructure upgrades, rather than allowing it to be treated as a quiet retail markup.
Heritance Hotels Graduates Inaugural 'Heritance Rise' Management Batch 🎓
Heritance Hotels and Resorts marked a major milestone by celebrating the graduation of the inaugural batch of its flagship management trainee programme, Heritance Rise. • Objective: The 18-month programme is central to the company’s vision to strengthen the human capital of the tourism sector and bridge the talent gap in Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry. • Graduates & Roles: Six exceptional trainees completed the intensive three-phase course, qualifying them to assume an Assistant Head of Department role within the organisation. • Key Programme Structure: The 'Heritance Rise' curriculum is comprehensive, integrating operational, cross-functional, and corporate learning. • A key component included providing International Exposure at an Aitken Spence property in India, Maldives, or Oman, followed by a final six-month deep dive into a management role. • Commitment: Ms. Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC, highlighted that the programme represents the company's commitment to shaping the future of hospitality through structured talent development and nurturing skilled, forward-thinking professionals.
Private Sector Backs Northern Economic Revival 📈
• East India Holdings (parent company of International Distillers Ltd. - IDL) has partnered with The Management Club to officially support the Northern Economic Summit 2026, scheduled for January in Jaffna. • IDL CEO Janek Jayasekara stated the commitment goes beyond sponsorship, reflecting a philosophy that views development in the Northern Province not as a regional concern, but as a national imperative for balanced progress. • The region is highlighted as an area of high potential for trade, technology, and enterprise, citing established infrastructure like the KKS Port, Palaly Airport, and Yarl IT Hub. • The conglomerate is focused on establishing public-private partnerships to generate employment, empower youth, and support local entrepreneurs, especially women-led businesses and SMEs. • The initiative is framed as a "call to action" to connect local capabilities with global markets while ensuring growth remains inclusive and sustainable.
NSB Wins Global Award, Redefines Savings Culture for Sri Lanka 📈
• National Savings Bank (NSB), Sri Lanka’s premier savings institution, celebrated World Savings Day 2025 (Oct 31) under the global theme: "This Is Not a Savings Account." This marks a strategic shift, redefining savings as an active investment in life goals, not a passive deposit. • Global Recognition: NSB received the prestigious WSBI SDG Award for its exceptional contributions towards climate finance, consumer protection, digital transformation, and technological innovation, aligning it with leading global banks. • Strategic Focus: The bank is actively working to re-think thrift in the 21st century—moving from "reserve-keeping" to "opportunity-creation." This involves aligning savings plans with personal goals and collective values, such as supporting green home improvements. • National Impact & SDGs: NSB remains committed to financial inclusion and literacy across the country, leveraging its extensive branch and postal banking network. Initiatives like the Agro-Forestry programme and financial literacy schemes directly support multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 8, 9, 10, 13). • Leadership Message: The bank emphasizes that cultivating the discipline of saving is a strategic asset, strengthening both personal financial resilience and the economic foundation of the country.
National Eye Hospital Conducts Special Clinic for Journalists 👁️
• The National Eye Hospital, Colombo, recently held a special eye clinic aimed at journalists. • The initiative was themed: "Let’s Heal the Third Eye". • The clinic was led by Dr. Anil Jasinghe, who serves as the Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media.
People’s Bank Champions Financial Literacy at FinLit Expo 2025 🤝
• People’s Bank recently took part in the FinLit Expo 2025 (Financial Literacy & Inclusion Fair), organized by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka – Anuradhapura Regional Office. • The initiative aligns with the theme, "Empowering Lives Through Financial Literacy and Inclusion." • The Bank hosted an engaging interactive stall to promote financial literacy, inclusion, and digital banking. • Key engagement was with students, Government employees, and the public, offering practical insights into smart money management. • Visitors explored innovative digital banking solutions, emphasizing how technology can simplify everyday financial transactions. • This effort continues the Bank's commitment to fostering greater financial awareness and inclusion across communities in Sri Lanka.
📈 Kerala's Gender-Inclusive Tourism Blueprint: Lessons for Sri Lanka
• Kerala is setting a national benchmark for gender-responsive tourism via its Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission and new Gender-Inclusive Policy, aiming to make destinations safe and economically beneficial for women. • The initiative has already engaged over 17,000 women as entrepreneurs, guides, and homestay owners since 2022. Future goals target the creation of 10,000 women-led ventures and 30,000 jobs. • Empowerment is achieved through training, micro-enterprise grants, and gender/safety audits. Focus is on sustainable rural hubs (e.g., Maravanthuruthu STREET Project) and empowering women across the tourism value chain. • Sri Lankan officials, who participated in a familiarisation visit, lauded Kerala’s government commitment, allocated funds, and strong network of tourism societies/women's groups. • The recommendation for Sri Lanka is to prioritise promoting women's participation as employees in the formal tourism sector to bridge skills gaps and meet industry demands, requiring similar strategies to overcome social gender barriers.
📈 SL Faces US$ 7–10 Bn Annual SDG Funding Gap; First Impact Fund Launched
A new report by the Lanka Impact Investing Network (LIIN) highlights critical structural financing gaps needed to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): • Investment Gap: An estimated annual investment demand of US$ 7–10 Bn is required for sustainable development. • Infrastructure: US$ 3–5 Bn annually. • Climate Finance: US$ 2–3 Bn annually. • Women-led enterprises: Face a US$ 695 M financing shortfall. • SME Constraint: SMEs, which contribute 52% to GDP, remain severely underfinanced. Access to credit is constrained by high interest rates (10–27%) and demanding collateral requirements. The number of active SMEs has declined from 1.3 M (2018) to 1.04 M (2024). • Banking Sector: Institutional lending for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) portfolios by commercial banks is currently less than 2% of total lending. • New Initiative: LIIN is launching Sri Lanka's first Impact Enterprise Fund, initially capitalised at US$ 5 M, to specifically target the financing gaps for SMEs and startups. • Key Feature: The Fund includes a first-loss guarantee covering up to 20% of potential defaults, aimed at boosting investor confidence. • Target Sectors: Investments (US$ 50k–100k) will target agriculture, tourism, IT, healthcare, and apparel, with deployment expected by mid-2026. The Fund aims to serve as a prototype for future blended finance vehicles and accelerate the evolution of Sri Lanka's capital markets.
🍜 Michael Kors Commits US$ 2.7 Mn to Boost Sri Lanka's School Meals & Local Farmers
• Global fashion brand Michael Kors has contributed US$ 2.7 Mn to the UN World Food Programme (WFP) through its ‘Watch Hunger Stop’ campaign. • The funding will bolster Sri Lanka’s National School Meals Program via WFP’s Home-Grown School Feeding (HGSF) initiative over the next three years. • Key Impact: • Daily nutritious meals secured for 250,000 children. • Program expansion from 8 to 10 districts. • Direct support for 1,500 local farmers and caterers to supply fresh, local produce. • Sustainability & Infrastructure: 30 schools will receive upgrades, including the installation of solar-powered kitchens to reduce costs and promote sustainability. • The HGSF approach aims to strengthen local food systems, empower primarily women farmers and meal providers, and enhance national resilience against food insecurity.
🌳 BAM Holdings' CSR Plants 1,078 Trees to Honour Founder & Boost Carbon Sequestration
• BAM Holdings Ltd undertook a major CSR initiative, planting a total of 1,078 plants at the Maduru Oya Special Forces Camp to commemorate the 78th birth anniversary of its late founder, Mr. B. A. Mahipala. • The project was spearheaded by the CSR team of Thermo Plastics (Pvt) Ltd, a leading flexible packaging manufacturer under the Group. • Plant Composition: The effort included 1,000 Mee plants, 50 Ehela plants, and 28 fruit plants, continuing the founder's "Mother Earth is Our Sustenance" motto. • Strategic Goal: The initiative aims to enhance the local ecosystem's carbon sequestration capacity, with plans to develop it into an "insetting initiative" to compensate for the company's operational emissions.
Mental Cost of Living: Unfiltered Reality vs. Online Illusion 🤳🧠
• Constant comparison to curated, 'perfect' lives on social media (often filtered and edited) creates an invisible pressure to "perform happiness" and leads to self-judgment. • This feeling of inadequacy extends to public figures (CEOs, entrepreneurs), whose private struggles (e.g., burnout, family issues, mental health battles) are unseen behind the successful brand and glamorous lifestyle. • Psychologically, perpetual comparison activates the inner critic, fueling dissatisfaction, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. • Research shows frequent comparers are more prone to envy and resentment, stuck in a loop of "chasing but never arriving." • Key Takeaway: The article stresses that true self-worth comes from effort and sincerity, not applause or validation. Mental health is about building an authentic relationship with the true self, choosing peace over performance, and honesty over perfection. • Success has no universal timeline; value lies in how one shows up quietly, honestly, and courageously even when no one is watching.
🇱🇰 SACEP Opens Sustainable Regional HQ in Colombo, Backed by World Bank 📈
• The South Asia Co-operative Environment Program (SACEP) inaugurated its new regional headquarters in Colombo 05, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s role as the host and a strong advocate for the green economy and regional environmental collaboration. • The modern 1,610 sqm facility, funded partly by The World Bank under the Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE) Project, adheres to LEED gold certification standards for sustainability. • The building features solar panels that generate 20% of its total energy needs, alongside state-of-the-art meeting spaces for regional dialogue. • Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, the Chief Guest, highlighted the urgency of a collaborative, unified response to escalating environmental crises, especially plastic waste, marine litter, and pollution in the region. • SACEP unites 8 member nations (including India, Pakistan, Maldives) to collectively address critical issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, waste management, and transboundary pollution. The new permanent base aims to strengthen environmental stewardship across South Asia.
📈 UNDP Urges SL to Unlock US$ 10+ Bn Private Finance for Climate Goals
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has called on the Government to swiftly transition its climate ambitions into action by mobilising large-scale financing and strengthening public-private coordination, following the launch of the National Climate Finance Strategy. • Sri Lanka’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) reflect a higher level of ambition for emission reduction and adaptation efforts. • Financing Need: Mitigation efforts alone are estimated to require over US$ 10 Billion for the 2021-2030 period. The actual requirement is significantly higher due to new targets. • Risk of Inaction: The cost of inaction would be "unimaginable," especially for key economic sectors dependent on natural resources, such as agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. • The new Climate Finance Strategy provides a framework to align resources and signal investor readiness, integrating climate finance with wider development goals like jobs and resilience. • Stronger private sector participation is essential through regulatory reform and de-risking mechanisms. This follows a global trend where private climate finance exceeded US$ 1 Trillion in 2023, outpacing public investment. • Institutional coordination is critical, described as a "motherboard," to ensure aligned efforts, reduce duplication, and effectively attract necessary investment.
📈 SL Targets US$ 11.26 Bn via Green & Blue Bonds by 2030
• Sri Lanka plans to raise US$ 11.26 Bn through Sovereign Green and Blue Bonds by 2030, outlined in the National Climate Finance Strategy (NCFS) 2025-2030. • The goal is to finance climate-related projects and renewable energy expansion, supporting the country's 2050 carbon net-zero commitment. • The Finance Ministry has already drafted the framework, which has been reviewed by an international rating agency and will align with the IFC’s Green Bond Principles and global sustainable finance standards. • Investment will target crucial sectors including energy, water, agriculture, waste management, and biodiversity protection. • The Ministry is also exploring a Sustainability-Linked Bond Framework to strengthen investor trust and increase transparency on fund allocation and environmental outcomes. • Successful implementation is expected to enhance Sri Lanka’s sovereign credit profile, attract climate-focused international investment, and position the nation as a regional leader in sustainable finance.
Hayleys Plantations Accelerates Global Regen Agri Leadership 📈
• Key Partnership: Hayleys Plantations (KVPL, TTE PLC, HPL) signed a landmark MoU with Solidaridad Network Asia and its Sri Lankan partner Nucleus Foundation to advance regenerative agriculture and carbon insetting programmes. • Global Precedent: This initiative reinforces Sri Lanka's leading position, following KVPL’s Halgolla Estate becoming the world’s first tea estate to receive Regenagri® certification in 2024. • Strategic Expansion: All three companies will expand Regenagri® protocols across more estates, focusing on restoring soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and improving traceability. • Carbon Markets Access: The partnership will deploy carbon insetting programmes to generate verified Carbon Removal Units (CRUs), enabling access to global carbon markets. • Compliance & Positioning: These initiatives support data-led decision-making and ensure alignment with emerging global sustainability regulations, including the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and CSDDD, strengthening Sri Lanka’s standing as a sustainable sourcing destination for tea.
Mahindra Ideal Finance Targets US$ 13 Bn Credit Gap for Micro-Entrepreneurs 📈
• Mahindra Ideal Finance Ltd. (MIFL) is strengthening financial inclusion by providing tailored leasing and loan products to Sri Lanka’s underserved micro-entrepreneurs and self-employed workers. • The credit gap for the MSME and "earn and pay" customer segment, who often lack traditional financial documentation (payslips, fixed assets, CRIB history), stands at over US$ 13 Billion. • MIFL focuses specifically on individuals dependent on vehicles (three-wheelers, small trucks, motorbikes) for their income, adapting their products to be "serviceable by their earning patterns." • The three-wheeler sector alone involves over 1 million registered vehicles and supports an estimated 760,000 households and 2.8 million people. Data shows 98% of these drivers actively save through formal banks, yet access to credit remains limited. • The financing model aligns repayment cycles with daily cash flows, making vehicle ownership more accessible and providing a path toward long-term income retention and asset building.
🇱🇰 NCPC Sri Lanka Leads National Climate Accountability as Top GHG Verification Body 📈
• The National Cleaner Production Centre, Sri Lanka (NCPC) is now the country's leading Greenhouse Gas (GHG) verification body, ensuring organizations' GHG inventories meet global standards (ISO 14064-3:2019). • NCPC’s credibility is backed by formal SLAB accreditation (ISO 17029/14065) and recognition under the International Accreditation Forum’s Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (IAF-MLA). • Verification services cover diverse sectors including manufacturing, plantations, healthcare, hospitality, and transportation, helping businesses build trust and align with global climate goals. • Beyond organizational verification, the Centre offers specialized services for: • Project-Level Emissions/Removals (creating verified carbon credits). • Product Carbon Footprints. • Carbon Neutrality Claims (ISO 14068-1:2023). • NCPC is actively building capacity, supporting listed companies to adhere to the new Sri Lanka Financial Reporting Standard (SLFRS) S2 on sustainability disclosures and training climate professionals. • The Centre plays a vital national role, acting as the key technical service provider for Sri Lanka’s First Biennial Transparency Report (BTR1) to the UNFCCC in 2024 and the upcoming BTR2 in 2026.
🤝 Sri Lanka's Ecolabel Signs Tripartite Green Label MRA for Cement
• Ecolabel Sri Lanka (ELS) has signed a landmark Tripartite Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with the Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (SGLS) and the Thai Green Label. • The agreement focuses on Harmonized Green Label Criteria for Cement Products, marking a significant step toward promoting sustainable construction in the Asia-Pacific region. • Signed on October 15, 2025, the MRA enables mutual recognition of certified cement products, ensuring consistent environmental performance standards. • Key Impact: The collaboration aims to enhance regional trade, reduce duplication in certification processes, and improve market access for environmentally preferable products. • This initiative positions Sri Lanka as an active contributor to regional sustainability leadership and advancing green markets.
Softlogic Life Redefines Corporate Reporting with AI-Powered Annual Report 🚀
• Softlogic Life has launched its 2024 Annual Report, "CHANGE MAKER," integrating cutting-edge AI features to transform traditional corporate reporting into a dynamic and interactive experience. • Key Innovations: New features include Customised AI Report access, which tailors content by language, length, and style for personalised stakeholder viewing. It also introduces gamification via AI-generated quizzes and leaderboards to boost engagement, particularly among youth. • Sustainability & Governance: The insurer implemented Sri Lanka Financial Reporting Standards (SLFRS) S1 and S2 (sustainability disclosures) with independent external assurance. Softlogic Life is pioneering the direct linkage of these sustainability disclosures with its financial statements, setting a new benchmark for integrated financial reporting. • Industry Recognition: The company achieved a Top 3 placement among Sri Lanka's leading corporates at the 59th CA TAGS Awards 2024 for the fourth consecutive year—the only stand-alone company to do so. It also secured the Bronze Award for Overall Excellence in Corporate Reporting plus six other accolades. • This tech-driven step reinforces Softlogic Life’s track record of industry firsts, which includes Sri Lanka’s first Video Annual Report (2017) and the first AI-enabled Annual Report Analyser (2024).
🌎 Sri Lanka's First Capital Achieves Global 'First' in Sustainable Finance 📈
• First Capital Holdings PLC (FCH), a subsidiary of Janashakthi Group, has become the world’s first investment institution to receive the Certificate of Acceptance to the Sustainability Standards & Certification Initiative (SSCI) by the European Organisation for Sustainable Development (EOSD). • The landmark recognition, conferred at the Annual Global Sustainable Finance Conference in Germany, validates FCH's deep commitment to embedding robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles at the core of its investment philosophy. • FCH's acceptance to the SSCI reinforces its status as a responsible leader in the global financial landscape and brings significant visibility to Sri Lanka's financial services sector. • MD/CEO Dilshan Wirasekara called the moment "transformative" for the broader South Asian financial sector and participated as a panelist at the conference to discuss the role of financial services in a fast-changing economic world.
📈 First Capital Leads SL's Capital Market with Global Climate Partnership
• First Capital Holdings PLC (a JXG subsidiary) has become the first capital markets institution in Sri Lanka to officially join the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF). • PCAF is a global collaboration of over 600 financial institutions that provides a standardised framework for measuring and disclosing the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions associated with financial activities ("financed emissions"). • This membership deepens FC's commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and responsible investing. • For the financial year 2024/25, FC reported operational emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3) of 309.9 tCO₂e. Adopting the PCAF Standard now enables the firm to assess and report its financed emissions, providing a comprehensive climate impact picture. • The initiative aligns FC’s disclosures with both local (SLFRS S2) and global expectations, enhancing transparency and its ability to manage climate-related financial risks.
🚢 Global Shipping Decarbonisation Hits Snag: IMO Fails to Agree on Carbon Pricing
• The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) expressed disappointment following the International Maritime Organization (IMO) MEPC Extraordinary Session, where member states failed to reach an agreement on the proposed Net-Zero Framework. • The failed framework aimed to establish the first global carbon pricing mechanism for any industrial sector, vital for the maritime industry's transition to net-zero emissions. • ICS Secretary General stated that industry requires regulatory clarity to make the significant investments needed for decarbonisation, in line with the IMO GHG strategy goals. • ICS reiterated its commitment to collaborate with the IMO, recognizing it as the most effective body for developing global regulations for this global industry. Lack of clarity impacts investment planning across the international shipping sector.
🤝 GPTW CXO Forum: Focus on Bridging Generational Gaps & Digital Fluency
• The Great Place To Work® Sri Lanka CXO Forum addressed "Unlocking Multigenerational Leadership Through Shared Values" and building a Digitally Fluent workforce. • GPTW Director/CEO Kshanika Ratnayaka emphasised that building cultures on shared values, trust, and inclusivity is vital for bridging generational gaps and thriving in the new world of work. • Keynote Mimi Nicklin highlighted empathy, inclusivity, and generational understanding as core drivers of collaboration, innovation, and trust. • Insights shared indicated that actively engaging young talent (under 35) through learning, recognition, and supportive leadership drives overall innovation and growth. • A CXO panel discussed strategies like implementing open-door policies, adapting employee tasks to unlock unique talents, fostering empathy, and leveraging AI for data-driven, multi-generational collaboration. • 15 organisations were celebrated as Best Workplaces for Young Talent for cultivating inspiring, inclusive environments that empower Gen Z and Millennials.
📈 MAS Holdings Launches Bold "Plan for Change 2030" for Ethical Apparel
• Sri Lankan apparel & textiles giant, MAS Holdings, unveiled its "Plan for Change 2030," positioning sustainability as a moral obligation and a blueprint for the global fashion industry. The strategy focuses on reinventing production with social equity and environmental restoration at its core. • Key 2030 Targets: • Product: Aim for 75% of company revenue to be generated from sustainable products. This drives Textile-to-Textile Circularity and development of 'Materials of the Future' (e.g., bio-based, organic cotton). • Planet: Target a 60% reduction in absolute greenhouse gas emissions across operations. Focus includes transition to renewable energy and achieving water-positive goals in high-stress regions. • Lives: Commitment to Fair Care Responsibility, advancing gender equity, ensuring employee well-being (including living wages), and building community climate resilience. • Economic & Sector Context: An ADB official noted that while Sri Lanka’s industrial growth has lagged (20% over the last two decades compared to Vietnam's >300%), sustainability must be the new driver for national growth. Scaling this transformation requires radical collaboration and public/private investment. • The plan emphasizes moving from simply reducing impact to actively regenerating supply chains, people, and the planet.
🇱🇰 Classic Destinations Pioneers Sustainable Tourism with GSTC Certification 🏆
• Classic Destinations (registered company of Classic Sri Lanka & Classic Wild) is Sri Lanka’s first Destination Management Company (DMC) to secure the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification. • GSTC Certification is the globally recognised benchmark for sustainable practices in the travel and tourism industry. • This achievement places the company among an elite international group committed to ethical operations, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. • Compliance was confirmed across all four GSTC key areas: sustainable management, socioeconomic benefits, cultural heritage protection, and environmental conservation. • The certification reinforces Sri Lanka’s position as a responsible, forward-thinking destination, aligning with growing global demand for eco-conscious travel experiences. • The comprehensive evaluation process was conducted by Control Union Certifications.