Business
John Keells Foundation’s “Break the Silence” Public campaign targets domestic violence
John Keells Foundation conducted a two-week public campaign against gender-based violence under its Project WAVE (Working Against Violence through Education). This year’s campaign sustained last year’s theme of ‘Break the Silence’ with a special focus on Domestic Violence in the context of reported surge in complaints received on hotlines during the pandemic. The overall objective of the public campaign was to empower both victims and bystanders to break the silence on violence, increase awareness, promote advocacy, and create a platform for discussing challenges and solutions on combatting gender based violence (GBV).
In a staff memo issued to mark the international day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Mr. Krishan Balendra, Chairman/CEO of the John Keells Group noted that “Since the outbreak of COVID-19, emerging data has shown that all types of violence against women and girls, particularly domestic violence, have intensified. However, there is also evidence that ending violence against women and girls is possible, with a comprehensive approach that tackles the root causes, transforms harmful social norms, provides services for survivors, and ends impunity. Ending GBV requires the continued and coordinated effort and steadfast commitment of everyone” and urged that “all of us, as responsible citizens, make it our personal and collective responsibility to build a workplace and society free of all forms of discrimination and violence.”
In view of COVID-19 related restrictions, this year’s public campaign was conducted via social media, television, and a partnership with Keells Supermarkets. A panel discussion to mark the international day was aired on 24th November in collaboration with MTV with the participation of Manel Jayamanna, Executive Director of the National Committee on Women, DIG Renuka Jayasundara, Director of the Police Research and Development Division, Niroshika Wegiriya, Attorney–at–Law and Project Coordinator of Women in Need and Carmeline Jayasuriya, Head of Operations, John Keells Foundation. The panelists addressed a wide range of issues which included government and legal interventions, impacts, repercussions, and remedies and the importance of multi stakeholder participation in preventing and mitigating GBV. The social media campaign which was conducted from 22nd to 29th of November highlighted helplines, messages by stakeholders working in the field of GBV and real-life incidents faced by survivors of Domestic Violence. The social media campaign reached a total of 91,582 persons and created 186,874 impressions. Keells supermarkets collaborated with John Keells Foundation by publicizing support information for domestic violence victims on customer receipts issued by outlets island wide.
The total outstanding market liquidity surplus or excess funds available in Sri Lanka’s banking system for lending and transactions declined by Rs. 36.65 billion in a week, according to the Central Bank’s latest economic indicators report.
An economic researcher analysing the data noted: “Treasury bill and bond auctions likely drained liquidity. If this tightening persists, short-term interest rates could rise, raising borrowing costs and potentially slowing economic growth. The situation warrants close monitoring, especially as the manufacturing sector is already facing a slowdown whether due to seasonal or structural factors.”
The report also highlighted the following developments in Sri Lanka’s economy:
Fiscal improvements: The deficit has narrowed but remains elevated.
Sectoral trends: The stock market rallied, and the services sector showed slower expansion (tourism, retail and IT driving resilience).
Total expenditure and net lending increased to Rs. 1,301.9 bn during the three months ending March 2025 compared to Rs. 1,197.5 bn in the corresponding period of 2024.
During the three months ending March 2025, the overall budget deficit decreased to Rs. 234.5 bn compared to Rs. 281.3 bn recorded in the corresponding period of 2024
The rupee value of T-Bills and T-Bonds held by foreign investors decreased by 2 per cent in comparison to the previous week.
“The April 2025 industrial slowdown points to weaker output, likely due to seasonal factors such as holidays or subdued demand. However, this was partially offset by an expansion in the Services PMI, offering some relief. The broader economic outlook for Sri Lanka remains uncertain, as these mixed signals unfold as Sri Lanka would receive a tariff letter from the US in the coming weeks. With market liquidity already tightening due to government borrowings from the banking system, policymakers face mounting challenges in balancing growth and stability,” the economic researcher noted.
By Sanath Nanayakkare
AIA Sri Lanka’s ‘Pawfect Match’ campaign, in partnership with animal welfare groups, inspired 500+ adoptions of stray pets. The initiative highlighted adoption, responsible ownership, and compassion, tackling Sri Lanka’s stray animal crisis. AIA thanks all supporters for their life-changing impact.
The campaign served as a reminder that even small acts of kindness like adopting a stray can make a big impact. It also provided an opportunity for the public to learn more about responsible pet ownership, animal rights, and the importance of compassion toward all creatures.
Calton Sweet House Pvt. Ltd., a key part of Calton Group, was honored as the Best National Industry Brand in the Medium-Scale Food and Beverage Sector at the National Industry Brand Excellence Awards 2024, organized by the Industrial Development Board. Deshamanya Mahesh De Silva, Director of Finance and IT at Calton Group, accepted the award.
Established in 1991, Calton Sweet House has over 30 years of excellence, specializing in cakes, snacks, and frozen bakery items, with 20+ outlets across Negombo, Katunayake, and Colombo, including at Bandaranaike International Airport. The company holds ISO, HACCP, and GMP certifications, ensuring top-quality standards.
Starting as a small store in 1983, Calton Group now employs 300+ staff and operates multiple businesses, including Calton Hyper Market and Calton Catering, while partnering with global brands like Unilever and Upfield. The group remains committed to serving customers with high-quality, safely packaged food products.
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