Business

Browns Heavy Machinery joins hands with Maga Engineering to strengthen Sri Lanka’s infrastructure development

Published

5 years ago

2022/01/15

(L-R): Piyadasa Madarasingha, Chief Executive Director, Maga Engineering (Pvt) Ltd; Milinda Nawarathne -Head of Heavy Machinery, Browns; Sanjaya Nissanka, Chief Operating Officer, Agriculture & Machinery Cluster, Browns and Sanakan Thamotharampillai, Group Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer, Browns

The Heavy Machinery arm of Browns Group recently joined hands with Maga Engineering (Pvt) Ltd by providing ten units of TATA Hitachi 220LC Excavators to power the development of the Ruwanpura Expressway. The product handover ceremony was graced by the presence of the senior management of both companies, including Sanakan Thamotharampillai, Group Chief Operating Officer/Financial Officer, Browns and Piyadasa Madarasinghe, Chief Executive Director, Maga Engineering (Pvt) Ltd.

Powered by Japanese technology, TATA Hitachi epitomises the synergy between two giants in the construction industry—TATA and Hitachi. With its rugged structure, fuel efficient design and remarkable performance, TATA Hitachi is perfect for the operational conditions in Sri Lanka. A testament to the brand’s superior performance, TATA Hitachi has been recognised as a Super Brand in India multiple times.

Construction and physical infrastructure are among the largest sectors of the Sri Lankan economy. Some of the structures under construction in Sri Lanka are the region’s largest and best. In collaboration with the world’s leading brands such as Hitachi, Sakai, Hitachi, Sumitomo, Mahindra, and Okada, Browns Heavy Machinery provides an unmatched range of heavy machinery reputed for trusted technology, advanced functionality, versatility and energy efficiency. Browns Heavy Machinery is well ahead of the competition with its acclaimed 24-hour support service, highly-trained and experienced technical team and its state-of-the-art service facilities. Browns is the Sri Lankan home for many leading global brands as building global brands into local market dominance is a skill Browns has mastered over one-and-a-half-centuries.

The total distance of the Ruwanpura Expressway from Kahathuduwa to Pelmadulla is 73.9km and the first phase of the proposed section is 24.3km. The total project has been awarded to Maga Engineering and the estimated cost of the project is Rs.54.7 billion. The first phase of the road is scheduled to be completed within 36 months (by 2024). The Proposed Ruwanpura Expressway from Kahathuduwa to Pelmadulla via Ratnapura is connecting the Western Province with Sabaragmauwa. The first phase will be divided into four sections and the design speed of this phase will be 110km/h. Moreover, it will be a four-lane two-way expressway.

Commenting about the partnership, Sanakan Thamotharampillai, Group Chief Operating Officer/Financial Officer, Browns stated, “Browns provides a wide array of heavy machinery and tools from renowned brands around the world. We always ensure that our customers receive a fast and reliable aftersales service as we aim to inculcate long-term partnerships. Browns maintains sufficient stocks of machines, spare parts and accessories — despite various challenges in the external environment — to cater to the growing demand.

Sharing his thoughts, G.V.S.K. Kumarasiri, Director – Highways and Bridges, Maga Engineering (Pvt) Ltd said, “Choosing Browns to supply TATA Hitachi 220LC excavators is a wise decision. A clear reflection of the proven performance of TATA Hitachi, the aforementioned machines are very efficient and well facilitate the development of the Ruwanpura Expressway. Moreover, we are delighted with the aftersales service provided by Browns as well.”

Browns is one of Sri Lanka’s largest diversified conglomerates, which manages a fast-growing and valuable portfolio of brands across several key industry sectors, such as power generation, agriculture and plantation, pharmaceuticals, investments, marine and manufacturing, as well as leisure. (Browns)

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Business

Financial literacy central to country’s development – CBSL Governor

Published

60 mins ago

2026/10/13

Sahan Weerasooriya

Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe: ‘Financial literacy vital’.

By Hiran H. Senewiratne

Sri Lanka’s financial literacy rate is approximately 58 percent. Such literacy is absolutely necessary for the inclusion of people in the country’s financial system which in turn is central to overall economic development, Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe said.

‘One needs to have knowledge and skills of a financial nature to figure in financial inclusiveness. While 86 percent of Sri Lanka’s population has access to the country’s financial system, 82 percent of the public has at least a savings account in the country’s banking system, Dr Weerasinghe said.

The Governor made these comments recently at the inauguration of Financial Literacy Month 2026 at the Central Bank’s Centre for Banking Studies, Rajagiriya.

Dr. Weerasinghe added: ‘Suitable, affordable and quality financial instruments are needed to enhance financial literacy in the country.

‘Financial information has to be accurate, risk-free and accountable, thus creating confidentiality in the financial system, which would enable the sector to reach greater heights’.

Meanwhile CBSL sources said: ‘The Literacy Month opened with the two-day ‘FinLit Expo Colombo’. The expo gives the public the opportunity to engage with institutions, better understand financial services, gain practical insights into managing their finances and learn how to protect themselves from financial fraud and scams.

‘The CBSL is leading the program in collaboration with stakeholder institutions. It forms part of the Financial Literacy Roadmap for Sri Lanka, which is implemented under the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS), the national framework for widening access to and use of formal financial services.

‘The Colombo event will be followed by six regional ‘FinLit Expos’ aimed at direct engagement with local communities. Partner institutions will also run awareness activities. Together, the events are intended to provide financial education to communities and encourage people to apply financial knowledge in everyday life.

‘A public awareness campaign on television, radio, newspapers and social media will extend the program’s reach. The program also includes digital financial literacy activities and the promotion of QR codes and other online payment methods.

‘The public and stakeholder institutions are encouraged to take part in the month’s activities under the theme, “Towards a Financially Literate Sri Lanka”.

Business

HUTCH strikes five awards as the only telco honoured at SLIM DIGIS 2.6

Published

60 mins ago

2026/10/13

Sahan Weerasooriya

HUTCH Sri Lanka strengthened its position as a leader in digital engagement by securing five accolades at SLIM Digis 2.6, emerging as one of the most recognized brands at this year’s digital excellence awards. The achievement was further highlighted by HUTCH being the only telecom operator to be recognized at the event.

Organized by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), SLIM Digis is Sri Lanka’s premier platform celebrating excellence, innovation, and outstanding achievements in the digital marketing industry. The recognition highlights HUTCH’s growing strength in digital-first, agile, and creative marketing, and its ability to respond to everyday moments, engage audiences, and deliver impactful digital campaigns.

The Gold Award for Best Use of Agile and Moment Marketing, a Silver for Best Use of Digital in a Marketing Campaign, and a Bronze for Best Performance Marketing were all awarded for “Keeping Sri Lanka Connected Through Ditwah,” HUTCH’s response to the cyclone that struck Sri Lanka in November 2025, recognised for the speed and relevance with which HUTCH kept customers better connected and informed.

HUTCH Roaming also earned two further Bronze awards for Best Use of Digital in a Marketing Campaign and Best Use of Creative Content. Bringing together AI-led storytelling, the campaign was designed around distinct customer clusters, each characterized by unique travel behaviours, needs, and perceptions, delivering relevant content for different audiences within a single overarching campaign.

“These wins are a strong reflection of how HUTCH approaches marketing today, staying close to the moments that matter to our customers and responding with speed, relevance, and creativity. Being the only telco recognised at SLIM DIGIS 2.6, and across five categories, is proof that agility and thoughtful storytelling can go hand in hand. This recognition reflects the collective efforts with our strategic partners, whose collaboration, expertise, and shared commitment brought great campaigns to life,” said Hamdhy Hassen, Chief Marketing Officer, HUTCH Sri Lanka.

Business

Fairway Colombo named Official Accommodation Partner of Manhunt International 2026

Published

1 hour ago

2026/10/13

Sahan Weerasooriya

(L-R): Gamunu Cooray, Ms. Tharushi Kulathunga, Avinga Wanigasekara, Arjuna Senanayake, and Jagath De Almeda at the signing ceremony held at Fairway Colombo.

Sri Lanka’s Smart Luxury Business Hotel to Host Delegates and Contestants from Over 40 Countries as the Island Nation Hosts Its First-Ever Global Pageant of This Scale

Fairway Colombo, a subsidiary of Fairway Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, has been appointed as the Official Accommodation Partner for Manhunt International 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious male pageants, scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka.

The event marks a historic milestone for Sri Lanka, as the country prepares to host a global pageant of this scale for the very first time. More than 40 contestants representing countries from across the world will arrive in Colombo, bringing together diverse cultures, international media attention, and a global audience — further strengthening Sri Lanka’s position as a premier destination for tourism, culture, and hospitality.

As the official accommodation partner, Fairway Colombo will welcome and host international delegates and contestants throughout their stay in Colombo, delivering the exceptional hospitality experience and personalized service that the hotel is recognized for.

A Landmark Partnership for Sri Lankan Tourism

“We are truly honored to be selected as the Official Accommodation Partner for Manhunt International 2026. This partnership is a proud moment not only for Fairway Colombo but also for Sri Lanka as a whole. Hosting an event of this global stature provides us with an opportunity to showcase our commitment to smart luxury, innovation, and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality to an international audience. We look forward to creating a memorable and seamless experience for all delegates and guests,” said Avinga Wanigasekara, General Manager of Fairway Colombo.

Strategically located in the heart of Colombo’s historic Fort district, Fairway Colombo is recognized as a Smart Luxury Business Hotel, combining modern comfort, advanced technology, and exceptional service. As part of Fairway Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, the property represents the group’s vision of delivering innovative, world-class experiences across the hospitality and leisure sectors.