Business
Pan Asia Bank partners with Ideal Motors to finance 100% SL-assembled Mahindra & Mahindra vehicles
Pan Asia Bank joins hands with Ideal Motors PVT Limited, a fully-owned subsidiary of the Ideal Group,in extending an opportunity for Sri Lankan customers to own 100% Sri Lankan assembled motor vehicles. Pan Asia Bank is extending the banking solutions for all Mahindra vehicles at very attractive terms, accommodating up to 70% of the asset value on locally assembled KUV 100 (Both Diesel and Petrol versions). Pan Asia Bank is known for its Fast, Flexible and Tailor-made Leasing solutions which suits many different customer segments in Sri Lankan society.
Mahindra & Mahindra and Ideal Motors recently launched Sri Lanka’s first-ever locally assembled Single Cab – ‘City Pick-Up’. The Mahindra City Truck, which is a proud production coming out from the state-of-the-art production plant at Welipenna, is of international standards set up by Mahindra Automobiles India. The entire production process is closely monitored by the mother company, assuring international level standards in production. Ideal Motors delivered the first batch of vehicles to the customers during the month of February 2022 and City Pick-Up are now available in the market.
With over a decade of disrupting the local automotive and after-market solutions industry, Ideal Motors is a pioneer, specializing in assembly, import, and distribution of motor vehicles and multi-brand spare parts, automotive after-sales services. Ideal Group holds the sole authorized distributor rights of Mahindra motor vehicles and motorcycles in Sri Lanka and is the co-ownership of Sri Lanka’s “first manufacturers’ automotive assembly and production plant” in Welipenna, a joint venture between Ideal Motors and India’s automotive giant, Mahindra and Mahindra which currently assembles Mahindra KUV100nxt Petrol and Diesel versions and Sri Lanka’s number one single cab Bolero City Pick-Up. Following a service-first philosophy, the Group claims a large footprint across Sri Lanka with its island-wide network of Mahindra sales showrooms and authorized service dealerships. Ideal Motors has sold over 100,000 vehicles in the country and today Mahindra has emerged as the market leader in the above 1ton category with over 58% market share, maintaining 35% market share in below one Ton Category.
Pan Asia Bank, one of the most progressive business entities in the country, always introduces novel and innovative leasing products and allows customers to experience a range of leasing facilities catering into different needs.
Get your dream vehicle today itself with a hassle-free customized leasing plan from the Truly Sri Lankan Bank – Pan Asia Bank. Visit the nearest branch for more details or Cal 0114-929929.
(Pan Asia Bank)
Business
Postponement of Sri Lanka Investment Forum 2026
The Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka wishes to inform registered participants and all stakeholders that the Sri Lanka Investment forum 2026, scheduled for 30 March 2026, in collaboration with its partners—the European Union (EU), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) has been postponed.
We have made the strategic decision to reschedule the event, due to ongoing global developments and its impact on international travel and logistics. We believe that rescheduling the event will allow for more focused and productive deliberations under more favorable global conditions. Our priority is to provide a high-impact platform that fosters meaningful engagement between Sri Lanka’ stakeholders and international investors.
New date: we are closely monitoring global developments and will keep all registered participants and stakeholders informed of revised date.
Registration: All existing registrations will remain valid for the new date.
The BOI remains dedicated to showcasing Sri Lanka as a premier destination for sustainable and technology-driven investment. We thank you for your patience and continued support as we work toward hosting a successful Forum. (BOI)
Business
Table by Nyne – The Beach: An elegant stop for sundowners and coastal dining in Bentota
Positioned between the iconic Galle Road and the golden shoreline of Bentota, Table by Nyne – The Beach pairs panoramic Indian Ocean views with a thoughtfully curated menu that celebrates creativity, flavour, and freshness.
Located at Anuprit, one of a trifecta of properties that form Nyne Hotels’ premium collection — Nyne LUXE — the restaurant is ideally placed for spontaneous coastal stopovers.
“Most Nyne dining experiences are reserved for in-house guests, but Table by Nyne – The Beach warmly welcomes walk-in visitors,” explains General Manager Rizwan Hareez. “Travellers exploring the coast, beach enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an elevated yet relaxed dining experience can drop in to enjoy fresh seafood, grilled specialities, vibrant seasonal salads, and a carefully crafted selection of plant-forward dishes.”
The restaurant has earned particular praise for its vegan offerings — inventive, flavour-driven dishes that go far beyond token options. From robust vegetable mains to creative small plates and nourishing bowls, the kitchen ensures vegan diners enjoy the same depth, balance, and artistry as any other guest.
Credit for this philosophy lies with Executive Chef Shantha Peiris, who, together with Nyne founder Nayantara ‘Taru’ Fonseka, designed the restaurant’s distinctive menu.
“All our vegan items are made in-house, from cheeses to honey alternatives. We are also deeply committed to working with local farmers, ensuring we always have access to the freshest ingredients while showcasing the fruits and vegetables that define the region,” says Chef Shantha.
For Nayantara Fonseka, the concept is about more than simply dining. “Table by Nyne – The Beach was envisioned as a place where people can pause along the southern coast — perhaps for sundowners overlooking the Indian Ocean, a quiet walk along the beach as the light softens, and then an unhurried dinner that celebrates fresh, thoughtful cooking. It’s about creating moments that feel both relaxed and memorable.”
A distinctive beverage programme complements the cuisine, with signature cocktails, artisanal mocktails, and a carefully considered wine list designed to enhance the beachfront dining experience.
Business
“Beyond the Scars” Coffee Table Book launched to raise awareness on leprosy in Sri Lanka
Alliance Development Trust (ADT) successfully launched its coffee table book “Beyond the Scars” at the Sapphire Hall, Courtyard by Marriott Colombo City Centre, bringing together development partners, health professionals, media representatives, and advocates committed to addressing stigma surrounding leprosy in Sri Lanka.
Two members of the self-help groups, delivered deeply moving testimonies that highlighted the human impact behind the fight against leprosy. One member’s husband who is affected by leprosy and who leads the Egodauyana self-help group meetings in Egodauyana, Moratuwa, shared her journey of standing alongside her family and community with strength and compassion. The other member who is directly affected by leprosy and has experienced nerve damage and severe emotional stress, spoke courageously about her personal struggles and path toward recovery and acceptance.
Their powerful stories of resilience, courage, and perseverance left a lasting impression on the audience. By openly sharing both the challenges they continue to face and the hope that sustains them, they helped break stigma and foster deeper understanding among participants. Their testimonies served as a compelling reminder that beyond medical treatment, dignity, community support, and awareness play a vital role in restoring lives and building inclusive communities.
In a meaningful highlight of the evening, the two self-help group members were honored as the Chief Guests, recognizing their courage and lived experiences at the heart of the initiative. The first copies of the Coffee Table Book were ceremonially presented to them by NCEASL CEO, Godfrey Yogaraja, symbolizing a tribute to their resilience and the powerful stories that continue to inspire hope and change.
The publication highlights powerful stories of resilience, dignity, and hope from individuals affected by leprosy, while shedding light on the ongoing social stigma and discrimination faced by many. The book launch aimed to raise awareness, encourage dialogue, and promote compassion and early detection as Sri Lanka continues its journey toward eliminating the disease. The Coffee Table Book was made available for purchase at LKR 6,000 for those interested in obtaining a copy.
According to national estimates, nearly 1,300 new cases of leprosy are reported annually in Sri Lanka, with many individuals continuing to face not only physical challenges but also deep social exclusion. Through Beyond the Scars, ADT seeks to humanize these experiences and challenge misconceptions that persist in communities.
Speaking at the event, representatives from ADT emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing both the medical and social dimensions of leprosy.
At the conclusion of the event, participants were also invited to make a pledge to join ADT’s work as Goodwill Ambassadors, encouraging individuals to actively support awareness efforts, advocate for inclusion, and stand alongside communities affected by leprosy. Several attendees expressed interest in contributing to the mission, marking a meaningful step toward strengthening collective action and community engagement.
“Leprosy is not only a health issue but also a social justice issue. Through this publication, we hope to amplify the voices and stories of those who have endured stigma and discrimination, while reminding society that dignity, acceptance, and compassion must be at the center of our response.”
The evening also served as a platform to acknowledge the ongoing efforts of health sector partners, community workers, and advocates who have contributed to raising awareness and improving access to treatment and care across Sri Lanka.
The coffee table book combines storytelling, photography, and lived experiences to create a compelling narrative that calls for greater empathy and action. By documenting these stories, ADT hopes to foster greater understanding and inspire communities to stand against stigma.
The launch concluded with a networking session, where guests engaged in meaningful discussions on strengthening collaboration to support individuals affected by leprosy and to move closer toward the shared vision of a leprosy-free Sri Lanka.
About Alliance Development Trust (ADT)
Alliance Development Trust is a Sri Lankan development organization working to empower vulnerable communities through health, social protection, and inclusive development initiatives. ADT actively supports programs that promote dignity, awareness, and equal opportunities for marginalized groups across the country.
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