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JAT Holdings celebrates the 6th Pintharu Abhiman Convocation, uplifting over 800 painters through NVQ certification

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JAT Holdings PLC marked a significant milestone with the successful conclusion of the 6th JAT Pintharu Abhiman Convocation, recognising more than 800 painters who have earned their NVQ Level 3 qualification, an internationally recognised professional certification delivered in partnership with the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA).

JAT Pintharu Abhiman was established to uplift Sri Lanka’s painter community through structured skills development, professional recognition and stronger earning potential. This year’s graduating cohort reflects the programme’s expanding reach and the tangible changes it continues to deliver for individuals, families and communities.JAT in collaboration with NAITA has streamlined the certification process such that what would traditionally take up to six months has been refined into an efficient and high-impact three-day assessment model. This approach ensures painters can obtain their qualification without sacrificing extended periods of work, while JAT fully absorbs the certification cost, removing financial barriers and enabling wider access to formal recognition.

Research conducted amongst NVQ qualified participants shows meaningful improvements in livelihoods, with 90 percent reporting increased personal confidence and 76 percent noting an improvement in their overall standard of living. This uplift demonstrates the long-term value of industry-aligned professional training.

A noteworthy moment at this year’s convocation was the recognition of four female painters who received their NVQ certifications. Their achievement marks an important step in broadening female participation in a field that has historically been male dominated, reinforcing JAT Holdings’ commitment to creating inclusive pathways for technical development and sustainable employment.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Wasantha Gunaratne, Director Sales and Technical (South Asia) of JAT Holdings PLC, said:

“Pintharu Abhiman is fundamentally about development, giving painters the knowledge, structure and recognition they need to progress in their careers. By equipping over 800 painters with an internationally recognised NVQ qualification, we are not only strengthening the technical standards of the industry but also creating real pathways for entrepreneurship and financial independence. It is especially encouraging to see that one in five certified painters have already begun building their own businesses. These are the outcomes that matter because they show that when we invest in skills, we unlock opportunity. JAT remains committed to expanding these avenues so every painter has the chance to grow, lead and build a sustainable future.”

The 6th JAT Pintharu Abhiman Convocation underscores JAT’s continued dedication to uplifting the painter community, enhancing industry standards and supporting national skills development through accessible, professionally recognised qualifications.



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Business

Constituent Change in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index

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The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announces the following change in S&P Sri Lanka 20 index constituents made by S&P Dow Jones Indices at the 2026 Mid-Year rebalance.

The exclusion and inclusion as announced by S&P Dow Jones Indices, effective from 22nd June 2026 (after the market close of 19th June 2026) are presented below.

The S&P SL 20 index includes the 20 largest companies, by total market capitalization, listed on the CSE that meet minimum size, liquidity and financial viability thresholds. The constituents are weighted by float-adjusted market capitalization, subject to a single stock cap of 15%, which is employed to reduce single stock concentration.

The S&P SL 20 index has been designed in accordance with international practices and standards. All stocks are classified according to the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®), which was co-developed by S&P Dow Jones Indices and MCSI and is widely used by market participants throughout the world.

To be eligible for inclusion, a stock must have a minimum float-adjusted market capitalization of 500 million Sri Lankan rupees (Rs), a six-month median daily value traded of Rs 0.25 million and have positive net income over the 12 months prior to the rebalancing reference date. For information, including the complete methodology, please visit: www.spindices.com

Effective from 22nd June 2026 the stocks in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 in alphabetical order are as above.

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Teejay Group navigates industry headwinds with financial strength and strategic focus

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Teejay Lanka Chairman Ajit Gunewardene and CEO Pubudu De Silva

The Teejay Group recorded revenue of LKR 60.04 billion during the period, reflecting a 10% year-on-year decline, primarily due to continued softness in global textile demand. This performance was largely impacted by reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States, intensified pricing pressures across key markets, and the resulting decline in volumes, all of which collectively weighed on topline growth.

Group Gross Profit declined by 36% year-on-year to LKR 5.02 billion, mainly attributable to lower production volumes, underutilization of plant capacity, sustained pricing pressures, and an unfavorable product mix. Together, these factors adversely affected margin performance amid a challenging operating environment.

The Group reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 54.7 million, representing a 98% year-on-year decline. This was primarily driven by higher rupee-denominated costs and non-recurring items, provision for doubtful debts, and restructuring costs associated with right-sizing initiatives.

Ajit Gunewardene, Chairman of the Teejay Group said, “The year was marked by persistent global demand softness and pricing pressures, which impacted results. Despite this, we focused on operational efficiency, cost discipline, and strengthening our financial resilience. These actions position the Group to navigate ongoing uncertainty while remaining committed to long-term value creation for our shareholders.”

Despite these near-term challenges, the Teejay Group continues to maintain a strong financial position, supported by disciplined working capital management and a robust liquidity base. As at 31 March 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at LKR 8.3 billion, while the Group’s net asset base increased by 3% year-on-year to LKR 32.4 billion, reinforcing the resilience of its balance sheet.

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Fairfirst celebrates 7 years of supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit

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Fairfirst Insurance has once again partnered with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit, continuing its support for the seventh consecutive year. This partnership reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the community.

Through this initiative, Fairfirst will provide comprehensive insurance coverage for the highly trained canines attached to the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit. These dogs play a critical role in supporting police operations across the country, assisting with crime detection, narcotics investigations, search and rescue missions, and public safety efforts.

As a company that believes business should create a meaningful impact beyond insurance, Fairfirst remains committed to initiatives that support communities and recognise the vital contributions of those who help keep society safe. This shared commitment to protection and responsibility continues to drive the company’s long-standing partnership with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit.

Commenting on the continued partnership, Ravishankar Wickneswaran, CEO of Fairfirst Insurance, said, “It is a privilege for us to continue supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit for the seventh consecutive year. These dogs serve the country with incredible discipline and loyalty, often in challenging situations. Supporting their wellbeing is one small way for us to give back, and it reflects the FairfirstWay of standing by those who protect and serve our communities every day.”

Fairfirst looks forward to continuing this partnership and contributing to the wellbeing of the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit in the years ahead.

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