Business
UNDP-led Private Sector Giving Facility launched

Hemas, Dilmah, Brandix and Daraz come together to provide emergency relief
The health and food sectors are two of the most heavily affected by the ongoing economic crisis in Sri Lanka, with severe medical and food supply shortages, availability of basic pharmaceuticals and overall health and wellbeing continuing to be significantly affected.
In this backdrop, building on established partnerships and keen interests of various actors, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka has leveraged its experience to develop a giving facility, comprising of two mechanisms; Firstly, by channeling private sector funds towards procuring essential and non-essential medical supplies and address food security; and secondly, by channeling individual donations through a crowdfunding mechanism set up by UNDP.
In response, key private sector actors including Hemas Holdings PLC, Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company, Brandix Apparel Limited and Daraz Sri Lanka have come forward to pledge their commitment through the facility to complement and strengthen the ongoing health sector efforts of the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) and food sector efforts led and coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) among others. Sarvodaya, the United Nations Global Compact Network Sri Lanka and oDoc Sri Lanka will also come on board as Strategic Partners of the facility, a news release on the initiative said.
Speaking at the launch event held last week, H.E. Ms. Hanaa Singer-Hamdy, Resident Coordinator, United Nations in Sri Lanka stated, “Now is the time for the private sector to show solidarity and prove what we have known all along – investing in prevention is good for business. Therefore, we call on you to urgently support our Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan to provide life-saving assistance to the women, men, and children most affected by the crisis and thus prevent a deterioration of humanitarian needs in the country.”
Reiterating the crucial importance of inter-agency collaboration for crisis relief, Mr. Dilhan C. Fernando, CEO, Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company stated, “Sri Lanka will rise again as businesses, individuals, local and international agencies work together with the government to ease the pain our nation is suffering. Circumstances demand that we all act with the kindness and empathy that Sri Lankans are known for. With this mindset, we will face the present and future crises with strength. We are blessed to have the possibility of helping at this time, and thank UNDP Sri Lanka for initiating this collaboration while inviting every business that can help, to support the effort.”
Highlighting the key role the private sector has historically played in humanitarian efforts, especially in times of crisis, Ms. Kasthuri Chellaraja Wilson, Executive Director, Group CEO, Hemas Holdings PLC mentioned, “As Sri Lanka navigates its worst economic crisis, Hemas remains committed to support our people and our country. Being the leader in Pharmaceuticals we are committed to support the most impacted vulnerable communities, and enable access to medicines. Our partnership with UNDP is in line with these efforts and we will focus on providing essential and near essential medicine to communities across the island”
The launch event saw the participation of several high-level representatives from partnering organizations including Dr. Anver Hamdani, Director Medical Technical Services, Coordinating In Charge/ COVID-19, Ministry of Health; H.E. Ms. Hanaa Singer-Hamdy, Resident Coordinator, United Nations in Sri Lanka; Ms. Kasthuri Chellaraja Wilson, Executive Director, Group CEO, Hemas Holdings PLC; Mr. Dilhan C. Fernando, CEO, Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company; Ms. Natasha Boralessa, Group Director, Brandix Apparel Limited; Mr. Rakhil Fernando, Managing Director, Daraz Sri Lanka; Mr. Heshan Fernando, CEO and Co-Founder, oDoc Sri Lanka; Mr. Rathika de Silva, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka; Ms. Malin Herwig, Officer in Charge, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka; and Mr. Vimlendra Sharan, Representative for Sri Lanka and Maldives, Food and Agriculture Organization.
Speaking on the importance of addressing the need of the hour, Ms. Natasha Boralessa, Group Director, Brandix Apparel Limited stated, “The Inspired People of Brandix pledge our commitment to thoughtful solutions to the food security challenge we face as a nation. Through our Manusathkara initiative, we already uplift the lives of our employees and the communities in which we operate in with our Model Village programmes across Sri Lanka, and with this partnership with UNDP, we will infuse much-needed inputs for short and medium-term relief assistance to restoring seasonal agricultural cycles. Our efforts will create immediate impact to tackle the challenges at hand, and also drive positive sustainable change.”
Speaking on mobilizing the private sector beyond Sri Lanka, Mr. Rakhil Fernando, Managing Director, Daraz Sri Lanka stated, “Given the country’s development to middle-income status, mobilizing funds from beyond Sri Lanka will be challenging, but a concerted effort with international organizations like the UNDP to raise awareness of Sri Lanka’s humanitarian crisis among the global community is an important first step. We need to work to start the required conversations, explore all possible options and leverage our technology, markets, networks and resources to mobilize private sector funds outside of Sri Lanka.”
Reiterating UNDP’s convening role in the facility, Ms. Malin Herwig, Officer in Charge, UNDP in Sri Lanka stated, “The giving facility will provide vital health and food sector support, liaising closely with relevant partners on procuring and delivering based on clear requirements, in strict compliance with UNDP’s globally renowned procurement guidelines. UNDP through its overall response efforts towards Sri Lanka’s recovery has leveraged its prior experience and strong relationship with the private sector to kickstart this facility, and looks forward to engaging with further private sector actors in working closely with fellow UN agencies, committed to empowering and strengthening vulnerable communities.”
The individual crowdfunding facility will be launched in the coming weeks, which provides the opportunity for individuals to contribute towards alleviating the impacts of the crisis, not only through addressing shortages in the healthcare sector but also by contributing to strengthening food security and other response measures in Sri Lanka.
Contact: socialmedia.lk@undp.org | 0779804188 | 011-2580691 Ext. 1501 Get in touch: UNDP on Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Business
Sublime W15 Hanthana Estate

By a correspondent
The Hanthana mountain range softly breathes, alive with the sound of silence. A pristine white bungalow sits facing these emerald-clad hills, its colonial crevices invoking the charm and nostalgia of a bygone era. A face from another time, kissed by the warm rays of the sun or caressed by the cool fingers of the mist. This is the resplendent Hanthana Estate by the W15 Collection, a place of beauty, a place of peace, where transcendent excellence is an apt description.
I took the early morning Ella Odessey train to Kandy, a comfortable journey that was accentuated by breathtaking vistas closer to Kandy. I was picked up at the station by the W15 driver and my personal butler for my stay. The first inkling of how my stay would pan out came when I was pleasantly surprised with the regular hotel welcome inside the Land Rover. The offer of a cool towel, the choice of a warm or cold beverage to ease fatigue, even before one steps into the foyer of a hotel, was an astute gesture towards ensuring customer delight.
W15 Hanthana Estate is a deliberately crafted blend of colonial charm (the bungalow being over 125 years old, lovingly and attentively restored to its present glory by renowned architect Chamika de Alwis) and modern opulence. The main bungalow unfolds like a tapestry of sepia and cream, weaving together six exclusive suites with four more situated a little beyond in the two storied stables, which boast an awe-inspiring view of the Uragala and Katusukonda mountains. I’m told that these mountain ranges have a certain significance to movie buffs who might recall that the famed “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) had certain shots filmed in the vicinity.
They offer numerous activities such as trekking in some of the most scenic hiking routes of the island, mountain biking, bird and butterfly watching, wildlife excursions (for the uninformed like myself, there are leopards, elusive yes but still roaming these jungles along with the more common sambar deer), nature sessions with the in-house naturalist or scenic walks and visits to nearby temples to interest you. Hanthana Estate also offers cookery lessons where you could pick your own vegetables from their herb and vegetable garden and have the pleasure of making your own lunch with the help of their chefs. One could also set off on an invigorating and informative drive through the tea plantations in their vintage Land Rover along with their naturalist who has a wealth of knowledge about the mountains, the flora and fauna, history and folklore. With kudos to the management for keeping history alive, Hanthana Estate also offers its guest a traditional, colonial inspired delectable high tea with finely cut finger sandwiches, flaky pastries, dainty fairy cakes and freshly baked scones with a pot of Ceylon tea. This high tea in a picnic form or cocktails as per guest preference, can also be enjoyed at a rock outcrop just a ten-minute jeep drive away from the bungalow which they call the ‘Rock Bar’, while the setting sun paints the skies in vivid hues.
This land initially belonged to Oodewella tea plantation, founded in 1880 which is one of the oldest tea estates in the country, considering that the tea cultivation in the country, established by James Taylor, dates back to 1867. Hanthana Group was created between 1985-1988 where Oodwella group was amalgamated with the Hanthana Estate. It would have seemed like a flashback when the great grandson of Gordon Pyper visited Hanthana Estate recently. The first Gordon Pyper had come to Sri Lanka in 1872 when Hanthana was a coffee plantation and following the coffee blight, planted tea in this beautiful estate. His son and grandson were superintendents at Hanthana and the current Gordon Pyper lived the first 11 years of his life in these environs. He affirms that its “wonderful to be back to the Hanthana of his childhood and W15 Hanthana Estate has given him wonderful memories to cherish always.”
It is an understatement to say that W15 Hanthana Estate caters to every whim and fancy of their discerning guest as they operate on an all-inclusive basis. Your personal butler is just a call away, your food is an exquisitely crafted story, your bed an epitome of comfort which entices you to linger, a shower is more of a response of sensual indulgence with irresistible Spa Ceylon products. Once you tear yourself away from your suite, the bungalow with its art, cosy chesterfield sofas and warm lighting and verdant hills that call you name – all this and more is what W15 promises. In my eyes, what makes Hanthana Estate special is not just beautiful surroundings and peace- I feel what makes this wonderous place feel like home, is the attention they pay to details such as the offer of a warm shawl when a guest involuntarily shivers, the evening turn down service where a hot water bottle is left beneath the duvet, the cushy slippers placed just right, and a myriad of little things that makes you smile or sigh contentedly.
I leave Hanthana Estate feeling a little lighter. All I can feel is that my soul is quieter and softer and more sublime.
Business
BOI invests Rs. 763 Mn in Horana Export Processing Zone: Next leap of Sustainable Best Practices

The newfound government is accelerating its efforts to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to the country by providing much-needed infrastructure to existing and new investors. The Horana Economic Processing Zone (HEPZ) is a center of attraction due to its location.
One key feature of the BOI zones is the provision of services that enable investors to operate their businesses smoothly, and investors always prefer the “turn-key nature” of these facilities. Electricity, water, and drainage systems; inbound illumination systems; and internal roads are the key attractions to the investors. These essential facilities enable investors to conduct commercial operations or constructions immediately after signsing of agreement with the BOI.
The constituency of the Horana EPZ consists of more manufacturing-led investors, and the wastewater treatment plant (CWWTP) is an integral part of the operation. Most importantly, the Horona EPZ’s long-term viability and compliance with the ESG framework of the organization make it even better at meeting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (Goal 15).
Hence, it was identified by the BOI that the capacity of the existing Common Wastewater Treatment Plant (CWWTP) needs to increase its capacity, which is used for the treatment of wastewater discharges from industries at HEPZ, and therefore, augmentation of CWWTP up to a capacity of 3000 m³ per day is essential to cater to the present influent volume of 1750 m³/day and forecasted additional volume of wastewater generated from the expansion of the existing projects and new projects to be established in vacant lands while uplifting the environmental sustainability of the zone and mitigating the health issues.
The BOI Capital Budget lists this project as a priority activity to reduce any possible environmental impacts and meet the CEA’s requirements for getting an Environmental Protection License (EPL) for the Horana Export Processing Zone.
The bids were invited through the National Competitive Bidding process, which had eleven (11) bidders that submitted the bids, and only four (04) applicants were eligible for the detailed evaluation. Bids were evaluated; at the evaluation stage, the Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) determined the least substantially responsive bidder that had fulfilled the relevant qualifications and experience required for awarding the contract.
Hence, the Cabinet of Ministers, by decision dated 05/06/2023, has granted approval for the proposed enhancement of the common wastewater treatment plant (CWWTP) at Horana Export Processing Zone, utilizing BOI funds, after the competitive bidding process and technical evaluation are completed. On 9th December 2024, the Cabinet took the final decision and approved the contract award to Luminex PLC, located at No. 24, New Galle Road, Moratuwa.
The BOI always works with the Central Environmental Authority, takes necessary action to mitigate imminent adverse environmental and health issues, and follows instructions to maintain the treatment efficiency of the existing wastewater treatment plant at HEPZ. Because of this, the proposed addition should make the treatment system efficient and effective, Further, it will strengthen the existing Common Wastewater Treatment Plant (CWWTP) and fully meet the discharge effluent standards and CEA requirements. (BOI)
Business
Mr. Burger opens third outlet in Wattala, expanding its reach in Colombo’s suburbs

Mr. Burger, one of Sri Lanka’s emerging fast-food brands, has officially opened its third outlet in Wattala, marking another milestone in its steady expansion. Since launching in 2017, the brand has grown in popularity for its signature fusion-style burgers, now serving customers from three key locations: Bambalapitiya, Rajagiriya, and Wattala.
The new Wattala branch strengthens Mr. Burger’s presence in the Colombo suburbs, offering its full menu of customer favorites, including the Chicken Pounder, Dual Mode, and Monster Chicken burgers. Known for its focus on quality and affordability, the brand has built a loyal customer base by consistently delivering fresh, flavorful meals.
Open from 11 AM to 2 AM daily, Mr. Burger caters to both daytime and late-night diners. The company also operates its own delivery service alongside availability on Uber Eats and PickMe, ensuring convenience for customers across all three locations.
Speaking about the latest expansion, founder and CEO Ikram Salam highlighted the brand’s commitment to growth while maintaining its core values. “The Wattala opening is an exciting step for us. We’ve always focused on providing a great product with a strong customer-first approach, and this new outlet allows us to serve more customers while staying true to what makes Mr. Burger special.”
With its expansion into Wattala, Mr. Burger continues to strengthen its footprint in Sri Lanka’s fast-food industry, reinforcing its commitment to accessibility, quality, and customer satisfaction.
-
News6 days ago
New Bangalore-Jaffna flights in the works
-
News4 days ago
CID questions top official over releasing of 323 containers
-
News6 days ago
Cardinal says ‘dark forces’ behind Easter bombs will soon be exposed
-
News6 days ago
HRCL reports on Rohingya asylum seekers
-
Features5 days ago
A singular modern Lankan mentor – Part II
-
Features5 days ago
Bharath Rang Mahothsav Parallel Festival in Colombo
-
News6 days ago
Ishadi Amanda makes history as First Runner-Up at 40th Mrs. World Pageant
-
Business7 days ago
Dialog partners with EcoMatcher to launch transparent, tech-driven tree planting in Sri Lanka