Business
COYLE proposes measures to drive SL’s economic growth
The Chamber of Young Lankan Entrepreneurs (COYLE) has presented a comprehensive proposal aimed at laying the groundwork for stable policies and attracting quality investments. COYLE’s plan, backed by extensive research and comparative analysis, focuses on key areas of concern and offers innovative solutions to overcome challenges and drive long-term prosperity. The proposals have been officially handed over to Madura Vithanage MP, who has agreed to convey them to the necessary channels in parliament, a press release said.
‘Expressing his support for COYLE’s proposals, MP Vithanage said, “It’s encouraging to see such an inspiring group of entrepreneurs preparing a concrete plan to tackle the issues facing Sri Lanka. A programme will be formulated within the next 3 months to solve the problems of businesses in the country. Sri Lanka faces difficulties in crisis management, but we must raise the bar and rise to the challenge. Therefore, we are taking necessary steps to resolve this situation as soon as possible, and I am pleased to present this proposal to parliament on behalf of COYLE.”
The release added: ‘Recognizing the need for stability and bipartisan collaboration, COYLE’s proposals advocate for the formation of high-level subcommittees comprising political and domain experts. These subcommittees, which should be protected by the Constitution, would then analyse and challenge ministerial acts and gazettes, ensuring transparency, accountability and the kind of well-informed decision-making that is necessary for progress. Leveraging the expertise of diverse professionals, COYLE seeks to forge a path towards a more efficient and effective governance structure.
‘COYLE acknowledges the positive economic conditions in the country, but emphasizes the importance of addressing the loss of credibility resulting from defaulting on obligations. To regain trust and attract quality investments, COYLE highlights the necessity for stable policies that offer a proactive approach, rather than merely reacting to crises. By setting clear timelines, introducing self-compliance capabilities for new investors, and upgrading standards to eliminate ambiguity, Sri Lanka can establish itself as a reliable and trustworthy investment destination.’
Dr. R. A. D. Jeewantha was honoured as the Most Innovative Dentist of the Year at the Business World International Awards, 2025. Organised by the Business World International Organisation, the award ceremony was held recently at the Mount Lavinia Hotel. A graduate of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Dr. Jeewantha has built a reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s most respected and forward-thinking dental surgeons. After gaining vital experience in Government hospitals, including the Teaching Hospital in Karapitiya, he also served at a leading private hospital before launching his own practice—Doctor J Premium Dental Care in Delkanda, Nugegoda.
His dental clinic is known for offering advanced, patient-focused treatments in restorative dentistry, cosmetic procedures, and implantology, using state-of-the-art technology. Dr. Jeewantha is especially skilled in dental implants, having completed the American Residency Course in Dental Implantology at Roseman University, accredited by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Dr. Jeewantha holds fellowships from the International College of Continuing Dental Education (FICCDE) and the Pierre Fauchard Academy (USA). His advanced skills include modern root canal treatments using Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) for both surgical and non-surgical procedures.
He has completed international trainings in digital dentistry, full-arch implantology techniques like All-on-Four and Zygomatic Systems, and smile design using digital 3D scans. He has participated in global dental events such as the Asia-Pacific Dental Congress and completed training at institutions including the University of Manchester and North Western State Medical University in Russia. His courses have covered everything from intraoral scanning to managing tooth wear. He has previously received many local and international awards. Dr. Jeewantha also serves the community as a Justice of the Peace for All Island.
The Foundation in Biological Studies at IIHS provides a unique alternative for students looking to fast-track their health careers after their Ordinary Level (O/L) exams. This programme offers a direct route to global health careers, bypassing traditional A/Ls. With over 1,000 students already advancing to universities in Australia, the UK, and Finland, IIHS has positioned the course as a reliable launchpad for careers in fields like medicine, nursing, biomedical sciences, and digital health. “This programme is a game-changer, offering a transformative journey into global healthcare education,” said IIHS CEO Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe.
Seylan Bank has recorded a Profit before Tax (PBT) of LKR 4,199 million in Q1 2025, marking a 13.36% growth compared to LKR 3,704 million in Q1 2024. Profit after Tax (PAT) rose by 20.29%, reaching LKR 2,761 million, up from LKR 2,295 million in the corresponding period of 2024.
Despite a decrease in net interest income by 8.37% due to market interest rate reductions, the bank’s net fee-based income grew by 13.83%, driven by fees from loans, cards, remittances, and other services. Total operating income for the quarter was LKR 11,258 million, a 3.83% decrease from the previous year, while operating expenses rose by 4.62%, largely due to increased personnel and other operating costs.
Impairment charges were significantly reduced by 83.17%, totaling LKR 262 million, reflecting the bank’s solid credit quality and proactive provisions. The bank’s impaired loan ratio improved to 1.98% from 2.10% in Q1 2024, with a provision cover ratio of 80.74%.
Seylan Bank’s total assets grew to LKR 785 billion, with loans and advances reaching LKR 469 billion and deposits totaling LKR 647 billion. The bank’s capital adequacy ratios remained strong, with the Common Equity Tier 1 Capital Ratio at 13.67% and Total Capital Ratio at 17.64%.
In addition to its financial performance, Seylan Bank continued its commitment to education, opening 16 more “Seylan Pahasara Libraries,” bringing the total to 281 libraries across the island.Fitch Ratings upgraded Seylan Bank’s National Long-Term Rating to ‘A+(lka)’ with a Stable Outlook in January 2025, further underscoring the bank’s financial stability and growth trajectory.
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