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Neuchatel Estate’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and cultural heritage

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Set against the beautiful backdrop of Kalutara’s lush tropical greenery, Neuchatel Estate remains a timeless tribute to the diversity of Sri Lanka’s plantation heritage. Founded in 1904 by British planter Colin Cowper Mee—who named the estate after his alma mater in Switzerland—Neuchatel quickly emerged as a beacon of progress.

In addition to being a skilled planter, Cowper Mee was also an enthusiastic equestrian, a generous supporter of the Ceylon Turf Club and an influential member of the Ceylon Planters’ Association, whose vision set in motion a legacy that would evolve over decades. Following his death in 1909, the estate passed to his siblings and later transitioned through colonial management, a takeover by Aitken Spence in 1942, government nationalization in 1975, and privatization under Horana Plantations PLC in 1992, which is under Hayleys Group. Even today, 121 years later, this legacy continues to thrive, with even Cowper Mee’s original horse-training tracks having been preserved into the present day.

One of the estate’s significant milestones was its transition from tea to rubber. By 1928, rubber cultivation had expanded significantly in the Kalutara district and Neuchatel dedicated 2,200 acres to the crop. By 1996, tea cultivation ceased entirely, making way for more rubber plantations. A new era began in 2013 when oil palm was introduced as the second-largest crop on the estate, covering 124 hectares.

Today Neuchatel estate stands out as one of Sri Lanka’s most vibrant multi-crop estates spanning 902 hectares and cultivating crops including rubber, oil palm, coconut, and cinnamon, as well as tropical fruits like Rambuttan. In 2018, Neuchatel Estate began diversifying its crops by introducing cinnamon and coconut cultivation. Currently, this diversification spans across the Home Division, Horahena Division, Dikhena Division, Kokhena Division, and Tempo Division, covering a total of 93.00 hectares of coconut and 30.00 hectares of cinnamon. This strategic move has led to the generation of significant new income for the estate.

 Innovation and Sustainability in Plantation Management

Neuchatel Estate has smoothly integrated modern technology with traditional practices to ensure long-term sustainability with an emphasis on efficiency and accuracy. The adoption of digital weighing systems, for instance, has replaced outdated methods for measuring latex yield, while advanced production facilities—such as forced air-drying towers and natural drying lofts—enhance product quality.

The estate’s commitment to environmental stewardship is underscored by its compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation Certificate, a first for a plantation in Sri Lanka. Sustainable practices like beekeeping, rainwater harvesting, and soil conservation are actively implemented to preserve the estate’s ecological balance.

Community Welfare and Workforce Development

Neuchatel Estate is more than a plantation; it is a thriving community. With a population of 2,140 and a predominantly a female workforce, the estate has implemented numerous initiatives to boost worker welfare—from revenue-sharing models and work opportunities to mid-day meal provisions and performance recognition programs.

The on-site Neuchatel Estate Hospital, along with regular health camps and educational programs, ensures that the well-being of workers and their families remains a top priority. The estate’s Child Development Center, recognized as one of the best in the region in the recent past, provides critical early childhood education and childcare services, securing a brighter future for the next generation.

 A Future-Ready Approach to Sustainable Agriculture

 In an era where sustainability is paramount, Neuchatel Estate has embraced innovative agricultural practices to maintain soil fertility and secure water resources. Rainwater harvesting provides a reliable water source for agricultural operations, while soil conservation techniques—especially within Oil Palm plantations—prevent erosion and maintain soil health.

In recent years, the Estate has also sought to build on its legacy as a pioneer in plantation innovation, with the establishment of bee keeping projects across the estate. These remarkable initiatives have enabled improved crop yields from improved pollination, while also generating valuable supplementary income for workers and the communities. Neuchatel Estate exemplifies the perfect blend of history, innovation, and sustainability. As it continues to evolve, the estate upholds its legacy of excellence in Sri Lanka’s Plantation Sector—proving that tradition and progress can coexist.



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Low-floor buses launched to boost accessible public transport for differently-abled

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A new low-floor bus service that gives priority to persons with disabilities and special needs was launched last Tuesday (21) from the Makumbura Multimodal Center (MMC).

The service was inaugurated under the patronage of Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, Bimal Rathnayake.

Accordingly, ten specially designed low-floor buses have been introduced into the transport service today. These buses are specially designed so that wheelchair users, visually impaired passengers and also expectant women can board the bus with ease, the Transport Ministry said.

Each bus has 30 passenger seats and separate seating areas have been allocated for passengers using wheelchairs.

The pilot project operates on routes from Makumbura to Colombo Fort and from Makumbura to Kadawatha. These routes also cover major hospitals including the Colombo National Hospital and the Maharagama Apeksha Hospital.

Speaking at the event, Subject Minister Bimal Rathnayake stated that while these buses prioritize the differently-abled community, they will also provide a comfortable and reliable transport service for all passengers.

He also noted that 122 low-floor buses are planned to be introduced into service before the end of this year, and that in the future the service will be expanded to areas such as Kandy, Batticaloa, Matara and Jaffna.

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Nestlé Lanka Announces Change in Leadership

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Nestlé Lanka Limited has announced the appointment of Manav Sahni as its Chairman and Managing Director effective 01 May 2026. He will be succeeding Bernie Stefan, who will be transitioning to a new global role within the Nestlé Group. Bernie Stefan led Nestlé’s Sri Lankan operations through a particularly challenging time since 2023 – and has successfully guided the company through a strategic turnaround, positioning it on a axis for sustainable growth.

Speaking on his tenure at Nestlé Lanka, Bernie commented “Leading Nestlé Lanka has been a deeply meaningful chapter in my Nestlé journey. I am grateful to have worked alongside an amazing and resilient team that continues to make a difference for Sri Lankans across the country. On a personal note, it was an amazing opportunity to live on this beautiful island and experience firsthand the openness, warmth and kindness of its people, which has been the highlight of my Nestlé career to date. As Nestlé Lanka marks 120 years of enriching Sri Lankan lives, it is especially humbling to reflect on the role we have played in building on this legacy – positively touching individuals and families, strengthening community partnerships, and advancing our sustainability commitments. I am thankful to my colleagues, partners and stakeholders for their collaboration and trust, and to the wider business community, including through my role as a Board Member of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, for the opportunity to reinforce Nestlé’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. I leave very confident in the strength of the team and the journey that lies ahead.”

Manav Sahni brings with him over 18 years of experience in the FMCG & Telecom sector. Prior to taking on the role as Chairman and Managing Director of Nestlé Lanka Limited, he has been heading Nestlé’s Dairy business for the South Asia Region, where he expertly managed a highly diverse portfolio, driving sustainable business transformation.

“I am thrilled to take on the role of Chairman and Managing Director of Nestlé Lanka at such a pivotal moment in its journey. Nestlé has been part of Sri Lankan households for generations, and I am excited to work with the team to continue delighting consumers with tasty and nutritious products, while strengthening the positive impact we create through our brands and initiatives.”

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Majestic Cineplex Returns Bigger Better and More Immersive

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Ceylon Theatres will unveil the newly revamped Majestic Cineplex on the 29th of April 2026, beginning a new chapter for one of Sri Lanka’s best known cinema destinations. Located at Majestic City Colombo, Majestic Cineplex returns with major technology upgrades, enhanced comfort, and a range of premium viewing options, reinforcing Ceylon Theatres’ long standing reputation for raising the bar in cinema entertainment experiences in Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the upgraded Cineplex will be completely open to the public from 29th April 2026 onwards.

For generations of moviegoers, Majestic Cineplex has been a landmark venue in Colombo, and its latest transformation brings together the nostalgia of a familiar name with the excitement of a modern cinema experience. Leading the new screen line up is Majestic Platinum, which introduces Sri Lanka’s first and only digital LED cinema screen. Designed to deliver sharper visuals, deeper contrast, richer colour, and outstanding clarity, the auditorium features a 3D 4K Tricorne LED Cinema Screen together with Dolby Atmos surround sound. Majestic Platinum offers 226 seats, including 18 VIP recliner seats for those chasing a premium cinema experience.

The cineplex also features three additional theatres, each designed to offer a high quality movie experience. Majestic Superior includes Barco 2K projection, 3D capability, and 7.1 surround sound, with seating for 150 patrons. Majestic Ultra features the same advanced projection and audio systems with 149 seats. Majestic Gold offers a more private luxury setting with Barco 2K projection, 3D capability, DTSX surround sound, and 30 leather recliner seats, ideal for those looking for the most premium and exclusive experience.

Patrons can also enjoy an upgraded café experience with freshly prepared and ready to eat food available for purchase at the counter, along with convenience of being served to your seat. The new café experience, together with the upgraded theatres make for a more relaxed, enjoyable, and fulfilling experience for everyone.

Discussing the relaunch, Ganga Rathuvithana, General Manager Operations at Ceylon Theatres said, “Majestic Cineplex has always been a special part of Colombo’s cinema culture, and we are proud to welcome audiences back with an experience that reflects the future of movie entertainment. We have always believed in investing in the best available technology, from introducing Sri Lanka’s first 3D cinema to now launching the country’s first digital LED cinema screen. Our revamped Majestic Cineplex is designed to give movie lovers something truly special.”

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