Business

A collaborative initiative between British Council Sri Lanka and Muslim Aid Sri Lanka

Published

3 years ago

2022/01/1

The British Council of Sri Lanka in partnership with Muslim Aid successfully completed the Active Citizens Social Action for Climate Change initiative in the Trincomalee District earlier this year. The overall programme entailed six unique projects designed to mobilize youth to take action against one of the greatest threats affecting the global population at present: Climate change.

The Six projects carried out under the Active Citizens initiative include: Kinniya Climate Resilience, Parijatham, Muthur Guardians, Tidy Tide, Diamond Model Village and Man Grow.

Kinniya Climate Resilience project aimed to create climate change awareness and promote social leadership among youth in Trincomalee. In that regard, a one-day workshop addressing crucial issues connected to climate change and resilience was arranged for senior students of Al Irfan Maha Vidiyalayam in Kinniya, where youth were urged to engage in clean-up campaigns, participate in tree planting and other remedial efforts.

The project Parijatham, carried out in the Potkeni Village, focused on poverty relief and environmental change. A volunteer for the initiative noted: “The villagers are dependent on home gardening and agriculture for their livelihoods. Devastating amounts of chemical fertilizers are used here in the interest of having higher yields. The project intended to incentivize organic agricultural practices and instill healthy eating habits among the community.”

Muthur Guardians carried out a ‘shramadana’ (clean-up) to eliminate algae and pollutants from water bodies in Nadutheevu, Muttur. According to a participant, extensive pollution in the region has resulted in a surplus of nitrogen and phosphorous causing algal blooms to spread at an alarming rate. Algal blooms produce harmful toxins, create ‘dead zones’ and hurt industries that depend on clean water.

Intending to minimize ocean pollution and plastic litter, the Tidy Tide project strived to raise awareness by organizing beach clean-ups and installing waste bins with the support of the Trincomalee Urban Council, volunteers, and residents.

Under the Diamond Model Village project, 20 targeted families were incentivized to embrace organic farming in Muttur, Trincomalee. The project also entailed activities such as constructing a greenhouse, reforestation and educating the community on the benefits of organic farming via industry experts.

The sixth project, Man Grow, attempted to mitigate frequent natural disasters in Kinniya by planting mangroves along the coastline. Mangroves form dense ecosystems that act as walls or barriers against wind, storm surge and other natural disasters. A participant, Fahmeedha Haneef said: “Climate change is a universal crisis – one that can only be productively addressed through intercultural dialogue. The project served to bring communities closer together and we are hopeful locals will continue to work together to manage, mitigate and overcome the challenges the six projects intended to address.”

While tackling climate change was the primary objective of the initiative, it also served to promote social cohesion among different ethnic and religious communities. The organizers are pleased with the reception and outcomes of this project in the Trincomalee district and thus intend to extend it to other parts of the country, too, once normalcy is restored.

The British Council Sri Lanka has a number of projects planned as part of the Climate Connection programme leading to COP26 hosted by the UK, in Glasgow, Scotland, from 1 to 12 November. Youth engagement and our youth leadership programme will continue to remain the main vehicle for addressing climate change issues at the community level, bringing positive change to society at large.

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Business

Government ready to provide necessary support to protect and develop businesses – Prime Minister

Published

16 hours ago

2025/02/23

Priyan

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the government is committed to safeguarding businesses and providing the necessary support for their development.

She made these remarks while addressing the “National Industrial Excellence Awards 2024,” organized by the Industrial Development Board, held on February 21 at the Eagle Lakeside Hotel, Colombo.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya presented awards to the three best national industry brands of 2024:

• JBRICKS PVT LTD – Small-scale category
• SINGHE Furniture Manufacturer PVT LTD – Medium-scale category
• EARTHFOAM PVT LTD – Large-scale category

In her address, Prime Minister Amarasuriya commended the resilience and dedication of Sri Lankan entrepreneurs, especially amid challenging economic times. “It is a pleasure to join you at this occasion. Witnessing your commitment to industry during these difficult times is a source of strength for us. The government is dedicated to protecting businesses and providing the necessary support for their development. Your involvement in these industries is crucial for our economic recovery,” she stated.

She further emphasized the importance of inclusive industrial growth, highlighting the significance of women’s entrepreneurship in building economic resilience. “Industries not only strengthen the economy but also generate vital employment opportunities. Despite challenges such as resource constraints, cultural barriers, and gender disparities, you continue to drive progress. We must amplify Sri Lanka’s brand globally. To the award-winning entrepreneurs: this is not the end of your journey but the beginning. Let us work together to rebuild our economy through industry,” the Prime Minister concluded.

Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr. Sunil Handunnetti, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of promoting Sri Lankan products globally. “Having a brand is vital, but it is even more valuable when it is recognized as Sri Lankan-made. Our goal should be to elevate the rupee to the strength of a dollar,”he remarked. The Minister highlighted initiatives in the recently presented 2025 budget that favor industrial growth, announcing plans for a national tax policy by the end of the year. “We aim to foster an industrial culture from the school level, enhance export revenue, and develop all sectors of industry. We call upon you to join us in this national endeavor,”he urged.

The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Secretary of the Ministry Ms. Thilaka Jayasundara, and numerous entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, all united in their commitment to drive Sri Lanka’s industrial advancement.

[Prime Minister’s media Division]

Business

HNB Assurance Group achieves strong financial performance in 2024

Published

21 hours ago

2025/02/23

Thilina Walpola

HNB Assurance Group (HNBA and HNBGI) has once again delivered impressive financial results for the year 2024, continuing its remarkable growth trajectory. The Group reported a 21% increase in Gross Written Premium (GWP), rising from Rs. 18.8 billion to Rs. 22.7 billion. Additionally, the Group recorded a consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) exceeding Rs. 1.8 billion, marking a 7% growth compared to the previous year.

HNBA’s strong financial position was further highlighted by its upgraded Fitch rating, making it the only life insurer in Sri Lanka with an ‘A’ rating. HNBGI also earned an ‘A’ rating, positioning it among Sri Lanka’s leading general insurers.

Commenting on the achievements, Chairman Stuart Chapman expressed pride in the Group’s consistent growth, with a 22% average annual increase in GWP over the past four years. He also noted the 42% growth in share price by the end of 2024, reflecting market trust in HNBA’s stability.

CEO of HNBA, Lasitha Wimalaratne, highlighted significant milestones, including a 7.5% market share and a 27% growth in New Business Premiums. CEO of HNBGI, Sithumina Jayasundara, praised the company’s resilience, reporting a 59% increase in Profit After Tax and exceptional growth in non-motor insurance segments.

Overall, HNBA Group’s performance underscores its strong market presence and commitment to sustainable growth.

Business

Chinese Dragon Café marks first anniversary in Dubai

Published

21 hours ago

2025/02/23

Thilina Walpola

Chinese Dragon Café (CDC), Sri Lanka’s iconic Chinese restaurant chain, celebrates the first anniversary of its Dubai outlet. Established in 1942, CDC has become known for blending Sri Lankan spices with Chinese culinary techniques, creating a unique dining experience. The Dubai outlet, which opened in October 2023, is the first international expansion for the brand, representing Sri Lankan Chinese cuisine on the global stage.

CDC’s Managing Director, Udeshi, expressed pride in the warm reception the restaurant has received in Dubai, highlighting the universal appeal of its fusion dishes. The Hot Butter Cuttlefish, Nasi Goreng, and Seafood Fried Rice are some customer favorites. CDC’s Dubai outlet is also available on major delivery platforms, allowing diners to enjoy authentic Sri Lankan Chinese cuisine at home.