Business
‘CEB restructuring by September; power sector entities to be run separately’
By Hiran H.Senewiratne
The government intends to restructure the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) by September this year and would be unbundling the sector to run all its related entities separately, instead of running all connected entities under one institution, Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera said.
“Under the restructuring exercise, the management structure of the CEB will be subjected to reforms and this would also enable renewable energy generation to be promoted in the country with the support of government and private and public partnerships, Wijesekera said at the Asian Development Bank’s Serendipity Knowledge Program launch yesterday. Two publications were unveiled on the occasion. The first was the energy sector publication, ‘On the Road to Achieving Full Electrification’ and the second was titled, ‘The Story of the Lanka Electricity Company.’ The event was held yesterday at Shangri la Hotel, Colombo.
Wijesekera added: ‘When the Lanka Electricity Company (LECO) was launched decades ago, it functioned well and certain countries in the region, especially India, followed the concept. However, unfortunately, we did not take forward that system due to various issues.
‘Once we introduce reforms to the CEB, power supply distribution and other related services, the functions will be separated by digitalizing all its functions to pass benefits to the consumers.
‘After these reforms we are hoping to promote power interconnections and now several countries are having such interconnections. Nepal and Bhutan have interconnections of power with India. We are hoping to discuss with India for interconnecting power with her, which will enable us to pass quality and low cost energy to the public.’
Business
ESOFT Metro Campus launches Cambridge Exam Centre
ESOFT Metro Campus has officially launched its Cambridge Authorised Exam Centre, marking a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s educational landscape. The event featured prominent figures from both ESOFT and Cambridge University Press & Assessment, including Dr. Dayan Rajapakse, Chairman and Managing Director of ESOFT, and Arun Rajamani, Managing Director for South Asia at Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
Dr. Rajapakse highlighted the importance of strong communication skills in today’s globalized world, emphasizing that the new exam centre will provide students, school leavers, and English learners nationwide with an opportunity to improve their language proficiency. He referred to the launch as a “historic milestone” for ESOFT.
Arun Rajamani echoed this sentiment, noting that English proficiency significantly enhances employability and opens global career opportunities. The centre will offer a variety of Cambridge English qualifications, including KET, PET, FCE, C1, and TKT, catering to students from ESOFT’s 40 branches across Sri Lanka. Additionally, young learners in grades 1 to 5 will benefit from Cambridge’s Starters, Movers, and Flyers programmes.
Business
Kangaroo Cabs enhances driver skills and community awareness with training programme
Kangaroo Cabs Pvt Ltd, the country’s pioneering cab service provider, successfully held a one-day training programme for its drivers on Nov 9 at Hotel Viluxey, Maharagama. Organized by the Kangaroo Cabs management team under the leadership of Thushara Fonseka, Director of Operations, the initiative aimed to enhance driver professionalism and customer service skills.
The programme provided participants with practical knowledge and techniques to improve their service delivery and adapt to the evolving demands of the transport industry. It emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining high standards of customer satisfaction and driver professionalism.
ASP Namal Perera, Deputy Director of the Police Narcotics Bureau, conducted a special session on drug addiction prevention. This session, held under the directives of DIG Oshana Hewawitharana of the Police Narcotics Bureau, addressed the pressing issue of drug abuse and educated participants on recognizing and avoiding dangerous substances. The initiative aligns with Kangaroo Cabs’ focus on promoting community well-being as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts.
“Kangaroo Cabs is committed to not only fostering professionalism among its drivers but also addressing critical societal challenges. This programme represents our dedication to equipping drivers with the skills and knowledge they need while contributing to broader community awareness,” said Thushara Fonseka.
Business
R M Perera (Pvt) Ltd: Observing Market Trends and Embracing Change in Interior Design
Marking four decades in the interior design and furniture industry, R M Perera (Pvt) Ltd has embraced evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics since its founding in 1984. With a focus on craftsmanship and innovation, the company is adapting to rising demand for personalized, durable, and culturally resonant designs that blend Sri Lankan heritage with modern functionality.
As Sri Lanka’s furniture market grows at an annual rate of 10.76%, projected to reach USD 622.70 million by 2029, R M Perera is poised to capitalize on these opportunities. The company plans to launch a concept store and expand its online presence, offering high-quality, customized furniture to a wider audience.
Renowned for its work with top clients like TAJ Hotels, Marriott, and Dilmah, R M Perera has contributed to iconic projects across hospitality, residential, and commercial sectors. Its state-of-the-art production facility, ISO-certified processes, and focus on sustainability ensure eco-friendly, premium-quality designs.
In 2022, the company received the Gold Award at the National Industry Excellence Awards, recognizing its dedication to innovation and excellence. As tourism and eco-tourism expand, R M Perera remains committed to creating luxury, sustainable spaces that elevate Sri Lanka’s global reputation.
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