Nawaloka Hospitals PLC was awarded the top award in the General Services and Utilities category at the ACCA Sustainability Reporting Awards 2016, organized by the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) Sri Lanka.
The ACCA Sustainability Reporting Awards aims to reward Sri Lanka’s most transparent, accountable and responsible corporates. The awards are judged on global criteria developed by ACCA and are aligned to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines for sustainability reporting. Nawaloka Hospitals have won the Runners-up accolade in the same category during the last two years. The award was accepted by Director of Nawaloka Hospitals, Mr. Harshith Dharmadasa at the gala event held at Cinnamon Grand Colombo recently.
Commenting on the win, Mr. Jayantha Dharmadasa, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Nawaloka Hospitals PLC said, “I am thrilled about this remarkable achievement and it is a great honour to be recognized at Sri Lanka’s flagship sustainability reporting awards ceremony. I would like to dedicate this award to our valued customers and employees who fully supported our sustainability agenda throughout the years.”
Mr. Nalaka Niroshan, Head of Finance at Nawaloka Hospitals PLC said, “Sustainability is a journey of continuous improvements and we are pleased to see the unwavering commitment of our employees and customers to embark on this journey. The report reiterates greatly that sustainability remains at the core of our business practice and strategy. We are continuously striving to drive a sustainable business strategy that focuses on the added value and long-term outcomes that can be delivered through being sustainable.”
Nawaloka Hospitals PLC’s report – ‘Pioneering Modern Healthcare’ – meets the requirements of the International Sustainability Reporting Guidelines (G4.0), the international standard for sustainability reporting. While the company steers forward on making a positive impact through its economic, social and environmental pillars, the report also exemplifies the organization’s public disclosure on sustainability performance and reflects how sustainability is progressively embedded within its business processes.
ACCA Sustainability Reporting Awards, which is in its thirteenth year, presented 15 awards across seven categories – Conglomerates and Diversified, Banking, Financial Services and Insurance, Small and Medium Enterprise (SME), Retail and Trading, Leisure and Connected Services and General Services and Utilities.
Photo caption: (Left to Right) Country Head ACCA – Sri Lanka, Nilusha Ranasinghe, Executive Director of Nawaloka Hospitals PLC, Mr. Harshith Dharmadasa, Resident Coordinator, UN Sri Lanka and Resident Representative, UNDP Sri Lank Una McCauley, President ACCA Sri Lanka, Adrian Perera.
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Nawaloka Hospitals PLC wins ACCA Sustainability Award
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‘Transforming Sri Lanka towards a greener tomorrow’
The Blue Mountain Group (BMG) recently reiterated its commitment to protecting the planet and spearheading national reforestation efforts by initiating the ‘Transforming Sri Lanka towards a greener tomorrow’ project. Conceptualized by BMG as part of its long-term efforts to be a responsible corporate citizen, the project will be conducted in partnership with the Forest Department of Sri Lanka to ensure the reforestation of 125 acres of land in Wilpotha over the next ten years.
The official partnership agreement between both parties was signed by Dr.Hiran Hettiarachchi – Group Chairman, Blue Mountain Group and S.A.A Sathurusinghe – Director General of the Forest Department, in the presence of Government officials, the management and staff from both organizations and representatives from the planting zones.
Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Hiran Hettiarachchi (MBBS-Colombo & MBA-Australia), Group Chairman of Blue Mountain said: “The Blue Mountain Group is the first private-sector company in the country to partner with the Forest Department to implement an environmental project of this scale and magnitude. The project was conceptualized to assist and support national reforestation efforts and is a non-commercial initiative that we hope will to protect our planet and the environment. We are honoured to join hands with the Forest Department, to make our dream for a greener Sri Lanka a reality.”
‘Transforming Sri Lanka towards a greener tomorrow’ was established in Wilpotha (situated in the Puttalam district), in keeping with national forest enhancement strategies. The project will help to safeguard some of Sri Lanka’s endangered forest sites, and in doing so will protect the rich biodiversity of flora and fauna that these unique habitats support. The project will ensure the removal of invasive plants and will facilitate the planting of a variety of native plant species, especially those that have been identified as endangered. The project team will also attempt to counter deforestation that is caused by illegal felling, fires and farming – all of which cause soil erosion and have a detrimental impact on these forest areas and the environment at large.
The project will have a multitude of environmental benefits whilst ensuring effective biodiversity conservation and habitat management on a large scale in key forest zones. The initiative will also support eco-tourism, and will attract more travellers to the Wilpotha Reserve, who will be able to see a rich variety of plants, wildlife and birds due to the continued protection of their natural habitat. Additionally, the project will also play a significant role in contributing to national carbon sequestration efforts, which are part of a long-term plan to reduce the country’s overall carbon footprint.
Photo Caption :L- R : Mr Thilan Anuradha – Group Director, Chief Stratergy officer Blue Mountain, Mr. Anura Sathurusinghe – Conservator General, Forest Department, Dr Hiran Hettiarachchi – Group Chairman, Blue Mountain, Mr Anil Kholi – Senior CEO, Blue Mountain, Mr Nishantha Edirisinghe – Deputy Conservator
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Sri Lankan shares fall for third straight session; John Keells down
Reuters – Sri Lankan shares fell for a third straight session on Thursday, posting their lowest close in a month, dragged down by diversified stocks such as John Keells Holdings Plc as investor sentiment continued to remain low on concerns about rising interest rates.
The Colombo stock index ended down 0.1 percent at 6,088.80, its lowest since Feb. 6. It shed 0.6 percent last week in its second straight weekly decline.
Foreign investors were net buyers for the seventh straight session on Thursday, purchasing shares worth 63.6 million rupees ($420,495.87), and extending the year-to-date net foreign inflow to 1.95 billion rupees worth of equities.
Turnover was 875.6 million rupees, more than this year’s daily average turnover of 689.7 million rupees.
“The market is mainly down because of John Keells. It is slowly coming down with rising rates and economic uncertainty,” said Dimantha Mathew, head of research at First Capital Equities (Pvt) Ltd.
“Foreigners seem to be the only buyers at the moment.”
Traders said there were concerns after the International Monetary Fund urged Sri Lanka’s central bank to be ready to tighten monetary policy if credit growth or inflation does not abate.
Shares of John Keells Holdings fell 1.06 percent while Commercial Bank of Ceylon Plc, the country’s biggest listed lender, declined 1.29 percent and Carson Cumberbatch Plc dropped 2.91 percent.
Sri Lanka Telecom Plc dropped 1.41 percent and Hatton National Bank Plc ended 1.16 percent weaker.
Yields on treasury bills have risen to a more than four-year high since October, while the central bank has kept key policy rates on hold.
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Textech 2017 to focus on Sri Lanka’s textile sector
The 8th Textech Sri Lanka 2017 International Expo, an exhibition on textile garment technology and machinery, focuses on the entire textile and garment sector of the country. The fair is currently underway in Colombo along with two concurrent fairs, – 26th Dye+Chem Sri Lanka 2017 International Expo and 8th Colombo International Yarn & Fabric Show 2017.
More than 200 exhibitors from over 6 countries are participating in these three-day expos. The 3 expos are targeting the entire business community and are playing an important role by assembling worldwide technology, machinery and material manufacturers and chemical sector under one roof.
The Dye+Chem expo is not only targeting the textile and apparel sector, but also to the entire manufacturing sector of Sri Lanka.
CEMS-Global’s Sri Lanka branch, CEMS Lanka, launched the fair with a vision to further expand into the fast booming Sri Lankan sector and bringing reputed international manufacturers and suppliers through its exhibitions to Sri Lanka.
With the ever increasing competition in the world market, the industries of Sri Lanka can expand their share in the market abroad and at the same time attract more foreign investment in the garment and textile industry, said CEMS Lanka in a press release.
The textile and apparel industry of South Asia has a key position in the export sector. Keeping in mind the potential of this sector and to further boost exports, CEMS-Global has been organising the Textech series of exhibitions for the last 17 years. The organiser brought this International branded exhibition to Sri Lanka as there is a need for exhibitions, which display the latest technology that the country can obtain to compete in the global market.
The Textech, Dye+Chem and Yarn & Fabric are CEMS-Global’s international series of exhibitions which are held in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Brazil and Indonesia. Dye+Chem and Yarn & Fabric series of events are also organised in India and Singapore. (KD)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India
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HNB relocates to spacious new Nugegoda Customer Centre
Catering to rapid growth in commercial and retail banking activity, Sri Lanka’s premier private commercial bank, HNB PLC, officially opened its newly relocated Nugegoda customer centre at No. 190, High Level Road.
Designed to provide customers a new paradigm in banking convenience, HNB’s state-of-the-art Nugegoda customer centre offers a complete spectrum of banking products and services including automated cheque deposits, real time transactions, and digital account opening facilities.
Additionally, customers can also benefit from HNB’s extensive range of benefits, and advisory services offered under the Priority Circle plan at the newly opened customer centre which will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
HNB’s Chief Operating Officer, Dilshan Rodrigo served as Chief Guest at the event while senior representatives from the bank, including HNB Deputy General Manager – Retail and SME Banking, Thimal Perera, Chief Digital Officer, Sidath Wijeratne, Chief Human Resource Officer, Chiranthi Cooray, Assistant General Manager – Network Management, Nirosh Perera, and Senior Regional Head – Greater Colombo Region, Neil Rasiah were also in attendance to witness the ceremonial opening of HNB’s new customer centre .
Commenting on the significance of the new customer centre, Rodrigo elaborated on the special relationship which the bank had developed with businesses and retail customers in the town.
“I have witnessed first-hand the remarkable development that has taken place in the last few decades which speaks volumes for the enterprising people of Nugegoda who have made this town one of the most sought after locations in Colombo for work and living.
“HNB is truly privileged to have partnered you in achieving your dreams and have no doubt this landmark building with fully equipped Digital Banking and a Priority Banking Centre is testament to our commitment for the future,” he stated.
In that context, he also thanked HNB’s loyal customers for their patronage over the years and requested people to make a visit to enjoy the personalized service and unparalleled diverse range of products which only HNB can offer.
The opening ceremony was also attended by a distinguished collection of prominent businessmen and entrepreneurs based in and around the Nugegoda area, including representatives from long-standing HNB customer Polycrome Electrical Industries (Pvt) Ltd.
“We are very pleased that HNB has been able to complete its strategic relocation. Already we can see that the new premises has ample parking space and this is certainly a significant improvement over the previous location. Over the last 25 years, our company has had the distinct pleasure of working closely with HNB and in that time we have grown from a relatively small business to one which now generates turnover in excess of Rs. 1 billion. At every step along the way, we have received invaluable support from HNB. Even when negotiating, they have always sought to reach a result that is a win-win for both sides and we wish them every success and look forward to working with HNB in future as well,” Polycrome Electrical Industries CEO, Pradeep Kahawalage stated.
Operating across 252 customer centres island wide, HNB PLC is Sri Lanka’s largest retail bank. The Bank continues to play a vital and energizing role in the Sri Lankan economy, and has been declared the best retail bank in the country for eight years to date.
Picture shows the Chief Operating Officer of HNB, Dilshan Rodrigo opening the new customer centre. Thimal Perera, Deputy General Manager – Retail & SME Banking, HNB, Chiranthi Cooray, Chief Human Resource Officer, HNB and Kanchana Suduarachchi, Manager, Nugegoda Customer Centre are also in the picture.
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ikman.lk’s impressive online presence a magnet for Sellers to achieve speedy results
~ The ‘go-to’ online marketplace for sellers ~
Sri Lanka’s largest marketplace ikman.lk has experienced exponential growth to underscore its status as the most preferred and popular platform for online selling.
While the online space has become increasingly popular for sellers, ikman.lk’s favorable foothold in the marketplace and the value added features and benefits the site has to offer is a magnet for sellers to achieve speedy results in making their online transactions a success. Demonstrating seller confidence in ikman.lk, to-date the total number of live advertisements on the site stands at 165,000. This is considering seller ads are accommodated for a maximum of two months on ikman.lk and the fact that the seller has the option of deleting the ad once the item is sold.
Sellers on ikman.lk not only have access to Sri Lanka’s largest platform for trading goods and services but also the advantage of a larger buyer interest. Current total interested buyers, for the month of February 2017 is at an impressive 2 million, while seller to buyer ratio stands at 1:35 ensuring that every seller has a minimum average of 35 buyers showing interest in their product.
Research has also endorsed ikman.lk’s strong buyer seller ratio, with findings showing ikman.lk as the most visited site for buyers and sellers across all main categories. Research shows that advertisements on ikman.lk receive more interest when compared to other competitive platforms both online and offline; Ads posted on the Cars and Vehicles receive 8 times more calls, for House and Property, it’s twice the interest when compared to competitors, for Electronics it’s 91 times more and House-Hold items 63 times more.
Additionally, the convenience of posting advertisements from the comfort of their home, ability to edit the information contained in the advertisement at any given time, and even removal from the online marketplace when necessary makes ikman.lk the online marketplace of choice for sellers.
“Sellers are an integral part of ikman.lk. Understanding their needs we have optimized the marketplace with features that makes it easy for sellers to reach out to customers fast. Through the many features ikman.lk also ensures the presence of interested buyers in the marketplace,” said Director Customer Support Mr. Shaif Mohamed”
While ikman.lk continues it’s aspiration to be the one-stop online classified destination with popular categories for both buyers and sellers, there are a number of other services that fall within the ikman.lk brand with each service having it’s own features in helping sellers sell fast and reach more buyers. ikman “Memberships” and “Buy Now” are two such value added features.
In authenticating seller advertisements ikman.lk has created a simple and effective SMS verification process. When a classified is posted, a unique four-digit code is sent through the user’s mobile. Should the code not be entered within the specified 10 minutes, the advertisement becomes invalid. This process ensures buyers’ have access to 100% genuine advertisements.
ikman.lk’s robust online presence in providing sellers many features and benefits in promoting their products helping them achieve success has undoubtedly achieved seller confidence assuring its place as the premier marketplace for sellers.
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“RIVERSIDE – BOLLEGALA” by Kelsey Homes
A centrally placed property to build your dream home.
Kelsey Homes (Pvt) Ltd announces the launch of ‘Riverside – Bollegala’ a gated property within minutes of Kelaniya and Biyagama Towns. Riverside-Bollegala offers 24 unique plots, 16 of which border the majestic Kelani River, giving aspiring home-owners an opportunity to reserve a block of land at this picturesque location.
Flourishing with natural beauty, Riverside – Bollegala is a centrally placed property located at 38, 42, Gangabada Road, Bollegala (off Biyagama Road). The 7.4 acre land extent holds 24 plots ranging from 28 – 50 perches presenting an exclusive investment and residential opportunity in a suburban setting, a short drive away from Colombo.
In a heaven away from busy city life, Riverside – Bollegala residents can embrace a lifestyle of serenity and ease relaxing by the gazeebo overlooking the Kelani River or taking a walk around the lush green gardens of the common area. The gated private property with 24 hour security, assures safety and peace of mind.
Prospective buyers are invited to visit the site between 8.30am and 5.00pm (Mon-Sun) or to call 0770 770 700 for details.
A pioneering real estate company in Sri Lanka with over three decades of expertise in providing real estate and housing solutions, Kelsey Homes embark on Riverside – Bollegala following the success of its exclusive gated living community ‘Templers Square’, in Mount Lavinia and Riverfront Luxury Bungalows, Kaduwela.
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Sri Lanka clinches continued C’Wealth trade support in London
Sri Lanka has clinched continued support for its international trade work from the Commonwealth on March 9.
Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen is representing Sri Lanka at the inaugural Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting that opened in London on 9 March.
Joining Minister Bathiudeen is Sri Lanka’s Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickrama, and many other Trade Ministers from the Commonwealth.
In London, Minister Bathiudeen has been extended commonwealth support to develop Sri Lanka’s international trade in many ways.
“I am pleased that talks with the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, Secretary-General of Commonwealth on March 9 in London were successful” said Minister Bathiudeen over phone on 10 March. “We are set to receive continued positive support from the Commonwealth to our international trade work as a result.” Minister Bathiudeen and added: “Sri Lanka’s historic relations with the Commonwealth stands further enhanced with this pioneering London event. Especially the “Agenda for Growth” idea to promote trade, investment and job creation in member countries such as Sri Lanka shall help our unity government’s reform vision of industry and commerce.”
Minister Bathiudeen meeting Secretary-General Patricia Scotland on March 9 discussed the progress of Commonwealth’s projects with Sri Lanka. The Secretary-General Scotland thanked Sri Lanka for their contribution to the Commonwealth Trade Finance Facility and discussed ongoing projects where the Secretariat is providing technical assistance to Sri Lanka. These include support with free trade agreement negotiations, designing an export diversification strategy and helping to set up an export/import bank.
Minister Bathiudeen is no stranger to the Commonwealth initiatives. In July 2014, the Executive Director of Commonwealth Businesswomen’s Network (CBW) Arif Zaman met Minister Bathiudeen in Colombo. Minister Bathiudeen was the first Lankan Cabinet Minister to be informed of Arif Zaman’s news that CBW has picked Sri Lanka to be its pioneering training point for its int’l women entrepreneurship initiative, the Commonwealth Women in Business Academy. This Academy consists of two components-a Business Exchange Platform and an International Entrepreneurship Training for Commonwealth Women. Minister Bathiudeen, thanking Commonwealth Business Council and CW Business Women, promptly extended his fullest support for the initiative.
The inaugural Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting (CTMM) took place at Lancaster House in London on 9 and 10 March in advance of the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the UK, with many Trade Ministers across the C’Wealth joining the event. The objective of CTMM is to reaffirm the commitment of Commonwealth member countries to a “transparent free and fair multilateral trading system,” and to define an ambitious Commonwealth led “Agenda for Growth” to promote trade, investment and job creation in member countries. This will support the target of increasing intra-Commonwealth trade to US$1 trillion by 2020. The recommendation to hold the March 9-10 meeting was an outcome of the Commonwealth Business Forum in Malta in November 2015.
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“Sri Lanka grand example for peace building and Eco tourism“ 10 March “Sri Lanka grand example for peace building and Eco tourism“
Sri Lanka Pavilion at the international tourism exhibition ‘ITB 2017’ in Berlin, Germany was inaugurated on 8th March with the participation of John Amaratunga, Minister of Tourism Development of Sri Lanka.
Jürgen Klimke and Michael Donth, both Senior Members of the German Bundestag, P.M. Withanathe Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Germany Karunatilaka Amunugama as well as several other business leaders from the global and Sri Lankan tourism industry also participated at this event.
While recognizing the contributions of the Sri Lanka Travel Industry to achieve the targets set for the German market, Minister Amaratunga invited the German counterparts to guide and to work closely with his Ministry and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
Addressing the visitors Bundestag member Klimke said that Sri Lanka is one of the “rare and grand examples for peace building and political stability” in the world. He added that the boom of the tourism industry was especially great to observe, as it went hand in hand with the process of reconciliation on the island. Donth commended the Sri Lankan tourism industry for its great performance and wished the tourism in Sri Lanka all the best for its future development.
Ambassador Amunugama thanked the German Government for its support to strengthen economic cooperation and requested German and Sri Lankan tourism professionals to develop strong partnerships to enhance visitor numbers from Europe.
With more than 150 representatives of the Sri Lankan tourism industry, the Sri Lanka Pavilion is one of the major attractions of the ITB 2017, the biggest exhibition of the tourism industry worldwide. More than 10, 000 exhibitors from 184 regions and nations exhibit the actual trends and developments in the tourism industry. More than 180,000 visitors are expected to visit the ITB 2017 until 12th March 2017.
With several structures and images reminding the visitors of the landscapes and buildings of Sri Lanka, including a live water fall, a tea bar with pure Ceylon tea available for the visitors and other attractions, the Sri Lanka Pavilion offers visitors every opportunity to experience the feeling of a real Sri Lankan holiday. The Sri Lanka Pavilion has been organized by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau with the collaboration of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Berlin.
The Sri Lankan Minister also had the opportunity to meet the German Minister for Economic Cooperation and Energy during his visit. The minister also schedules to meet with senior German Travel Industry personal, German media as well as listening to the Sri Lankan industry leaders on the issues pertaining to the industry.
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CIMA’S Corporate Partner Programme: A strategic partnership to transform finance function and keep it ‘Future Ready’
CIMA unveiled its Corporate Partners, celebrating a decade of partnerships which play an important role in ensuring the accounting profession continues to evolve with contemporary business needs. This year’s partnership holds special significance, in addition to acknowledging the 10 year milestone. In January 2017, the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (the Association) was formed combining the strengths of CIMA and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). Representing 650,000 students and members globally, in public and management accounting, the Association strives to power opportunity, trust and prosperity for people, businesses and economies worldwide.
To further elaborate on the Association and its relevance for Sri Lankan corporates, Lawson Carmichael (Executive Vice President – People, Strategy & Innovation) and Venkkat Ramanan (Regional Vice President, Asia Pacific) were in attendance to address CIMA’s corporate partners. Citing geo-political, technological, regulatory and workforce issues which are causing rapid changes to businesses and their operating environments globally, Lawson advocated building stronger corporate partnerships. He said: “Strategic partnerships are differentiating companies of the future. The Association uniquely differentiates us, delivering value, delivering better business and protecting the public interest.”
Supporting these statements, Venkkat explained, “The main objective of the Corporate Partner Programme is to form a closer linkage between the Association and the corporates. While the Programme also provides an essential link for employers seeking professional talent to meet their business needs, the Association is committed to support Sri Lanka’s economy by developing the competencies of not only school leavers but the accounting profession at large.” Venkkat also emphasised on the need for corporates to gain a better understanding of the local implications of global changes. He added: “In order for Sri Lanka to remain competitive, it is critical that companies learn to adapt to these changes and high quality talent is essential to propel growth. To this end, a series of roundtables will be conducted with the Corporate Partners to gain valuable insights of how the Association, together with the corporates, can transform the finance function for future business needs.”
Also in attendance to meet with Corporate Partners were Irene Teng (Managing Director of Markets – Europe, Africa & Asia) and Bhaskar Ranjan Das (Associate Director – South Asia).
CIMA CORPORATE PARTNERS 2017
Platinum
Lankem Ceylon PLC
Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC
Hayleys PLC
Siam City Cement (Lanka) Ltd
John Keells Holdings
MAS Holdings
National Development Bank PLC
Hirdaramani Group of Companies
Fonterra Brands Lanka (Private) Limited
Aitken Spence PLC
HSBC Electronic Data Processing Lanka (Pvt) Limited
Lanka Orix Leasing Company PLC
Associated Motorways (Pvt) Ltd
Unilever Lanka
Brandix i3
Dharmavahini Foundation
Wijeya Newspapers Ltd
Gold
Ceylon Tobacco Company PLC
Seylan Bank PLC
Nestlé Lanka PLC
Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC
Sampath Bank Ltd.
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Elegant Living at Ekroma Realtors’ Elegant 16
In March 2018, Colombo’s skyline will have a new addition as Ekroma Realtors’ Elegant 16, introduces boutique concept living to Sri Lanka. The new-age concept apartment is set to consist of 16 2- bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments down Elvitigala Mawatha in Colombo 5.
Ekroma Realtors are a BOI approved real estate and development company with the vision to give Colombo a unique and new way of living that suits the needs of the modern dweller. Bringing luxury and modern living to the heart of Colombo, the company gives residents the ideal location and facilities to enjoy a peaceful and residential neighborhood. The developers’ key strength is the attention they pay to delivering the concept of urban living while ensuring that the residents have a place they can call home.
With Elegant 16 the developers seek to introduce the newest trend in the real estate market, the concept of boutique apartments. By definition, the word ‘boutique’ simply means “a business that serves a sophisticated or specialized clientele.” In line with this, a boutique apartment is a small and luxurious space. Though the concept of boutique hotels is fairly well known amongst Sri Lankans, the concept of boutique apartments is relatively new. With apartments ranging from 870sq. ft. to 1900 sq. ft., the dwelling spaces will feature open plan interiors to create the ideal ambiance for family life, offering convenient access to each other while being in different parts of your home. Be it for young professionals, families or anyone who needs the convenience of city, with Elegant 16 you get the whole package – detailed finishes and elegant fittings to add the icing to the cake to the cozy abodes with the natural light and ventilation offered by the balconies and windows around the building in the perfect location.
The apartment complex will be located within the residential hub off Elvitigala Mawatha, Colombo 5 to give you the ultimate experience of being nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being within the hype. Located in close proximity to Colombo’s commercial center and a world of amenities from schools to hospitals, and from malls to supermarkets; all your requirements will be a minute away at Elegant 16.
Elegant 16 will be home to 16 boutique apartments with a selection of six unique floor plans. All units come with air conditioned Master Bedroom and Living Room and Bathroom with modern fittings. The building comes complete with a swimming pool, gym, function room, rooftop with recreational and BBQ area, jogging path, kids play space and more, giving you a complete range of extras for everyone. Combined, Elegant 16 will prove to be the epitome of luxury and class, the ideal home for residents, with a central location, while experiencing the best value for money with the highest standard and quality in luxury amenities, high-end finishes, and security.
For more information on Elegant 16 please contact 0777 917123, 0777 955431, 0772 444422 or visit their website www.ekromarealtors.com
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Guilt-free Indulgences: The Body Shop fortifies its makeup range for an all-day look
The sweltering heat of a Sri Lankan summer is no match for the all new additions to The Body Shop range in Colombo. The skincare brand introduced the Fresh Nude Cushion foundation, the Down To Earth eye quad palette and three limited edition makeup looks to its outlets in Colombo this month. The new products use powerful agents to combat the daily skin struggle of living in Colombo’s humidity.
The Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation is an easy to apply, long lasting formula that can be reapplied when the day warms up for a one degree decrease in skin temperature. Bringing the best of liquid foundation to a convenient compact, this formula provides 24 hour moisture and can be used by both women and men. A cushion sponge with micro-mesh captures the right amount of foundation for spill-free, hygienic and smooth application. The formula uses Community Trade Aloe Vera and English rose water for a 100% vegan semi-matte texture-the perfect blend for fresh faced and guilt free skin.
For more vegan goodness, turn to the Down to Earth Eyeshadow Quads and Eye Palette. Inspired by the richest natural colours, enriched with the goodness of babassu and sesame oils and endowed with a versatility to match the most packed social calendar, this formula is 100% vegan with no petroleum and minerals, and ideal for sensitive eyes. The highly pigmented shades are extremely buildable and blend-able to create the perfect, long lasting look for a seamless day to night transition.
The limited edition makeup range is ideal for a night about town. Each carefully crafted look-Rock the Night, Go for Gold and A True Romance- includes a limited edition eye shadow quad and nail polish, on-trend Matte Lip Liquid and Eye Colour Sticks. The Body Shop also introduced a range of long-lasting eye shadow palettes, Matte Lip Liquids, Eye Colour Sticks and Colour Crush Matte Lipsticks.
Drop by The Body Shop flagship store on Bagatale Road or the outlet at Odel on Alexandra Place to find the new additions, alongside other staple Body Shop favourites.
About The Body Shop:
The Body Shop is an iconic British retailer of ethical cosmetics and toiletries. It was founded by Anita Roddick in 1976 with the belief that businesses should ‘enrich, not exploit’. A philosophy of creating the best quality cosmetics and toiletries without exploiting the planet’s resources or people has driven the brand, which pursued sustainability and ethical business long before it became fashionable.
Photo caption: (Above left) The NEW Fresh Nude Cushion Foundation is enriched with 100% organic Community Trade aloe vera and English rose water and can bring down the temperature of your skin by 1 degree; (above right) Goa Magnolia Matte Lip Liquid dries to a velvety finish. (Below fromleft) Paris Peony Matte Lip Liquid is long lasting and non-drying; Cali Gerbera Matte Lip Liquid is enriched with high purity pigments; Crete Carnation Matte Lip Liquid is also available in 11 other shades; The Body Shop’s Down to Earth Eye Palette contains conditioning community trade sesame and Babassu oils and is suitable for sensitive eyes
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A book launch where silence reigned
“Turn you attention inward. Become aware of your posture, how you sit on the chair. Notice all your body sensations, notice any tensions that may be present, gently relax those places, relax your whole body, be totally comfortable in your posture… Now look closely for thoughts that may arise in your mind. If they are linked to the past or future just let them go by becoming aware… You might experience a sense of silence and then you will notice that you are breathing. There must be movement for the mind to notice. Please observe the whole process of breathing without interfering, without forcing it in any way… as you do this, whenever you notice that you are thinking of something else please bring your attention back to breathing…keep doing this exercise…”
Following these instructions, the whole audience, a cross section of corporate leaders experienced the bliss of being totally silent for some time, perhaps for the first time in life during the very unique corporate event organized to launch the book Inward Bound for Mindful Living as a Sarasavi Publication by Deepal Sooriyaarachchi. Deepal is a seasoned corporate executive, now fully committed to the purpose of developing managers while serving a number of blue chip boards. Union Ball Room of JAIC Hilton was filled to capacity on the 16th February by those who responded to Deepal’s invitation to discover how mindfulness, the simple skill of becoming aware of what happens here now and observing them non-judgmentally, can improve corporate performance and happiness.
It was a book launch with a difference with complete focus on the audience, which echoed the likes of an evening lecture series organized by a professional institute. The formal presenting of the book was replaced by a lineup of excellent presentations by eminent speakers.
Having referred to the origins of Mindfulness to Buddha’s teaching, Dr Tara De Mel educated the audience on how in the last decade the scientific community had discovered immense benefits of the practice of mindfulness with undisputable evidence, recorded in over 500 peer reviewed articles in leading scientific journals. Referring to a large number of scientific research publications she took the audience through as to how the practice of mindfulness definitely affects all the systems of the human physiology with positive benefits. She used the secular definition of mindfulness popularized by John Kabat Zin of USA “Paying Attention on Purpose in the present Moment non-judgmentally” in sharing the various scientific aspects. She went on to say how the mindfulness revolution began when His Holiness Dalai Lama challenged Professor Richard Davidson (Neuroscientist – Founder of the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin, Madison) to research about the positive emotion and their impact on the human brain. Accordingly Mindfulness has gained recognition and has got introduced to many fields including medicine, education, management and business. One of the key points that took the audience’s attention was the “Mindful Nation” policy that has been adopted by the British Parliament in a bipartisan move.
“Deepal first introduced this book at PIM when it was a UK publication with his adopted pen name Deepal Soori and in fact he has become a “shuri” (expert) in showing us the importance of a very important aspect we tend to ignore in our hustle and bustle of busy life, which is to be Mindful,” was how Prof Ajantha Dharmasiri commenced his presentation. He eloquently argued for the immense benefit of the practice of Mindfulness to be effective Managers. He iterated that the invitation to travel “inward bound” is timely as most Managers consider being productive by being faster and busier; as a result being more stressful rather than being smarter. He invited the Managers to consider the four foundations of Mindfulness discussed in Sati Pattana Sutta, as the basis for peak performance.
President Counsel Prasantha Lal De Alwis, an eminent criminal lawyer, structurally reviewed the book to show how Insightful, Practical, Theoretical, Readable, and Logical it was, while also being affordable. He observed the unusual structure of the book and emphasized that this book has been obviously written by someone who walks the talk as evidenced by the simplicity with which some deep insights are brought out.
Deepal used the opportunity to recall with gratitude all those who helped him to rise up in life and particularly those who helped in publishing the book. He explained how we are Distracted, Confused and Stressed today more than ever and how the simple practice of mindfulness can make a world of difference to everyone who can develop the skill by spending a few minutes a day. He revealed that he had been practicing mindfulness since 1980, integrating it into his life long before the current awareness on the subject. “In Mindfulness we learn to bring our attention to notice what goes on in this moment, the only moment we can observe, without getting involved – just like a CCTV camera.” While appreciating all the health and other benefits valued by the scientific community, Deepal said that gaining those benefits through mindfulness is like using a Backhoe Machine to uproot a Banana Plant! “The real benefit is getting to know yourself! Please read my book, but the most important book you must read is YOUR LIFE,” emphasized Deepal. During his presentation he conducted a guided mindfulness practice session as well.
Young ad man, Shaveen Bandaranayake facilitated the whole programme weaving in the clips of the “Inward Bound for Mindful Living” hosted by him for ARTV. He had selected clips that brought out some fascinating insights shared by Deepal through some powerful analogies such as ‘Our mind is like a meeting without an agenda or a chair person’. He vouched on how he had benefited from the practice of mindfulness as a result of getting the opportunity to host the show.
INWARDBOUND ROAD MAP
- Inward Bound for Mindful Living Season 2 will begin on ARTV in Mid March.
- On Line course on Mindfulness on UDEMY by Deepal, will be launched late March.
- In April ‘Listen-in guided instructions on Mindfulness’ will be available through Dialog.
- A special week-end retreat for top executives will take place at Santani Wellness Resorts, Kandy from 7-9th
- A practical Mindfulness half-a-day workshop conducted by Deepal on 3rd March at Water’s edge.
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Fairway selected to turn waste into energy
Given the rapidly escalating problems surrounding the management of municipal solid waste (MSW) especially in the Western Province, the Government has seen fit to adopt a “waste-to-energy” approach in order to ensure that MSW is disposed of in a hygienic and sustainable manner.
The disposal/treatment of 650 and 500 metric tons of MSW per day at selected locations in Muthurajawela and Kardiyana respectively was proposed as Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects with the Waste Management Authority of the Western Province. The Urban Development Authority published a Request for Proposals to initiate the project. Following the completion of national procurement procedures the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development announced that Fairway Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd and K C H T Lanka Jang (Pvt) Ltd had been selected to carry out the task of converting waste into energy at the given locations of Karadiyana and Muthurajawela respectively.
The projects were launched on the 10th of March at Waters Edge, Battaramulla. Gracing the event was the Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, the Minister of Megapolis and Western Development, along with the Hon. Faizer Musthafa, the Minister of Provincial Councils and Provincial Administration, Hon. Isura Devapriya, the Chief Minister of the Western Province and Hon. Lasantha Alagiyawanna, the Deputy Minister of Megapolis and Western Development.
Located within the jurisdiction of the Boralesgamuwa Municipal Area, Karadiyana has been used as a dumpsite for MSW collected from seven local authorities in the Colombo District. Fairway Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd has identified a number of issues surrounding the open dumping of waste over a long period of time and gained knowledge of a number of methods by which such waste can be successfully disposed of. With the use of German and Danish technology Fairway Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd plans to set about constructing a waste to energy plant in the 10 acres of land allotted to them in Karadiyana and begin operations as soon as possible.
As a company that has invested in future technologies such as Bio -technology research, Fairway Holdings (Pvt) Ltd supports and implements a number of endeavours to ensure energy and environmental conservation in order to assure a sustainable future for the next generations. The country’s leading real estate developer is known for its promotion of sustainable living and being extremely conscious of its carbon footprint. The practice of “building green” has always been one of the organization’s leading philosophies and by developing a waste-to-energy project, Fairway Holdings hopes to further develop awareness about the importance of energy and environmental conservation, thereby ensuring a healthy, sustainable and green future for Sri Lanka.
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Huawei becomes fastest growing Smartphone in Sri Lanka
Market share surpass 30% in 2016
Huawei announced was recorded as the fastest growing smartphone brand with a market share of more than 30% as at December 2016. Propelling further the brand’s exclusivity within the smartphone market globally, Huawei had also made it to higher rank as one of the most valuable brands for the year 2017 under Brand Finance the Global 500, as the number 40 brand in the list.
Huawei chose to associate their brand with Singer Sri Lanka due to its brand reputation that was evident amongst the Sri Lankan public. Having started from zero base in 2012, Singer had successfully assisted in propelling Huawei’s brand image and market share to over 30% by the third quarter of 2016, according to latest analysis from user experience research experts GfK.
Henry Liu – Country Head Huawei Device said, “Huawei’s smartphone market first emerged in Sri Lanka in 2012 and through an effective partnership our exclusive distributor in the country Singer Sri Lanka, the brand very swiftly captured the interest of local smartphone enthusiasts after establishing itself as one of the most innovative, revolutionary, economical and reliable smartphone brands amongst its competition in the country. We appreciate Singer Sri Lanka’s contributions for having brought Huawei to this level and as our focus is only to bring the best to Sri Lanka. 2017 is going to be an interesting year for all of us and Huawei fans as we set to be the number one brand in this country”.
Matching its aggressive sales promotions, Huawei has also expanded its Service Centres across the country in key locations such as Bambalapitiya, Anuradhapura, Galle and Jaffna. Further plans are under way to establish service centres in Matara, Batticaloa, Badulla and Kalutara enhancing its service offering to the ever growing customer base in Sri Lanka.
Even though Huawei emerged as a brand into the global smartphone market during a competitive stage amongst other well-recognized brands, Huawei as a brand has risen rapidly to become the third largest in terms of global market share. By the end of last year (2016), Huawei had recorded an increase in unit shipments by 29%.
Huawei has also been dubbed as something of a wildcard amongst other rival smartphone brands around the world and is set forth to continue on an ambitious path of launching a number of flagship devices and wearables during the course of this year. Having merged with reputed digital and analog camera manufacturer in Germany, Leica, Huawei has impressed the smartphone landscape with notable features such as the Dual-lens camera that is incorporated into models such as the Huawei P9 and Mate 9.
The dual –camera setup and addition of ID technology in the form of a finger-print recognition mechanism into the latest Huawei models has been deemed as not only smart but also super fast and accurate. As far as the brand is concerned, local smartphone users will only be anticipating even more monumental and novel introductions through Huawei in the months to come.
Huawei continues on the route of providing value-driven and innovative products and services. Huawei is ranked 47th among the World’s Top 100 Most Valuable Brands in 2016 According to Brand Finance. Huawei recently jumped to Number 72 on Interbrand’s Best Global Brands adding another feather to its cap.
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Renault Kwid Climber Launched at Rs 4.3 Lakh, Now More ‘SUV’ Than Before
Renault has launched the Climber edition of the Kwid at a price tag of Rs 4.30 lakh for the 5-speed manual transmission variant. The AMT-equipped variant has been priced at Rs 4.60 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).
Renault India has witnessed strong sales with their popular entry-level hatchback Kwid and the demand for the vehicle has resulted in several additions and updates to the model line-up in India. The company first came out with a more powerful, 1.0-litre engine equipped, Kwid SCe and then added an AMT transmission variant in the form of the Kwid Easy-R.
One of the biggest reasons why the Kwid has been so popular is because of the SUV-inspired styling and when Renault showcased a more SUV-focused concept variant at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo, it had everyone talking about it. So much so, that the concept is now a production model.
![Renauylt-Kwid-Climber-Interiors]()
Speaking on the launch of Kwid CLIMBER, Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India Operations, said, “Renault Kwid is a great success, revolutionising the compact hatchback segment in India. The Renault Kwid Climber has been developed keeping in mind specific customer needs and caters to diverse audiences, becoming the perfect offering for young achievers who are moving up places steadfastly.”
Designed and developed by Renault’s design studios in Mumbai and Chennai, the company says that the Kwid Climber concept proves the highest degree in which the KWID can be customised.
Changes include updated exteriors and interiors. The Climber is available in three colour options – Electric Blue, Outback Bronze and Planet Grey.
It will only be available with the 1.0-litre petrol engine, in the top-end RXT(O) variant. Bookings for the car have commenced across all Renault dealerships in India.
It is basically a cosmetic job on the Kwid and comes with orange accents throughout the body and the cabin. There have been no mechanical updates in the car and no technological additions either, unlike the model displayed at the Auto Expo. A decision that could have been taken to have an accessible price tag on the Climber edition.
Overall, it gives the car a more SUV-like appearance which has been the Kwid’s biggest attraction. What remains to be seen is how the market reacts to the introduction of this model as the car sees a price bump of almost Rs 30,000 over the top-end Kwid already on sale. Watch this space for updates.
Speaking on the launch of Kwid CLIMBER, Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO and Managing Director, Renault India Operations, said, “Renault Kwid is a great success, revolutionising the compact hatchback segment in India. The Renault Kwid Climber has been developed keeping in mind specific customer needs and caters to diverse audiences, becoming the perfect offering for young achievers who are moving up places steadfastly.”
Designed and developed by Renault’s design studios in Mumbai and Chennai, the company says that the Kwid Climber concept proves the highest degree in which the KWID can be customised.
Changes include updated exteriors and interiors. The Climber is available in three colour options – Electric Blue, Outback Bronze and Planet Grey.
It will only be available with the 1.0-litre petrol engine, in the top-end RXT(O) variant. Bookings for the car have commenced across all Renault dealerships in India.
It is basically a cosmetic job on the Kwid and comes with orange accents throughout the body and the cabin. There have been no mechanical updates in the car and no technological additions either, unlike the model displayed at the Auto Expo. A decision that could have been taken to have an accessible price tag on the Climber edition.
Overall, it gives the car a more SUV-like appearance which has been the Kwid’s biggest attraction. What remains to be seen is how the market reacts to the introduction of this model as the car sees a price bump of almost Rs 30,000 over the top-end Kwid already on sale. Watch this space for updates.
- news18.com
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Change of Metal/Alloy of Rupee 1 coin and Rupees 5 coin
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka hereby informs the general public that a new set of circulation coins of Rupee 1 and Rupees 5 will be issued to circulation after changing the metal/alloy from brass plated steel (gold colour) to stainless steel (silver colour).
The edge lettering of the Rupees 5 coin has been removed in the new stainless steel coin.
All other specifications including dimensions and designs of the above said coins remain same as of Rupee 1 coin and Rupees 5 coin that have been issued since 2005.
The said new coins will be legal tender in Sri Lanka for payments and will be a liability of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka while in circulation.
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Sri Lankan shares hit 5-wk closing low on rate hike fears
Reuters – Sri Lankan shares hit a five-week closing low on Monday on worries the country’s central bank would raise interest rates at a meeting next week after the International Monetary Fund urged it to tighten monetary policy, brokers said.
The Colombo stock index closed 0.23 percent down at 6,070.80, its lowest since Feb. 6. The index shed 0.27 percent last week, posting its third straight weekly decline.
The IMF last week urged Sri Lanka’s central bank to be ready to tighten monetary policy if credit growth or inflation does not abate.
The banking regulator is expected to unveil its second monetary policy of the year on March 24.
“The IMF statement on urging the central bank for a possible rate hike has weighed on sentiment,” said Hussain Gani, deputy CEO at Softlogic Stockbrokers.
Shares of conglomerate John Keells Holding Plc fell 1 percent, while biggest listed lender Commercial Bank of Ceylon Plc ended 1.09 percent weaker.
Foreign investors net bought shares worth 61 million rupees (about $403,041), a ninth straight session of purchases, extending the year-to-date net foreign inflow to 2.18 billion rupees worth of equities.
Turnover stood at 183.3 million rupees, the lowest since Feb.1 and well below this year’s daily average turnover of 679.6 million rupees.
Yields on treasury bills have risen to a more-than-four-year high since October despite the central bank keeping key policy rates steady.
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Shangri-La hikes Sri Lankan investment by 60 pct to $800 mln
Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Asia has increased its investment in Sri Lankan properties by 60 percent to $800 million, in order to meet demand for larger-than-planned apartments in Colombo, an official said on Monday.
The international hotel brand had originally planned to invest $500 million in a 541-room hotel and 390 apartments in Colombo and another 300-room resort in the island nation’s southern district of Hambantota.
“Investment has increased because of the project enhancement,” Neluka de Alwis, head of sales and marketing at Shangri-La Hotels Lanka (Private) Limited, told Reuters.
The company has changed the design of the apartments due to demand for larger units, de Alwis added.
Shangri-La, in 2012, had estimated that the total cost of the project could climb by 10 percent to $550 million due to last-minute design changes.
De Alwis said the Colombo hotel was expected to be completed by 2017, later than an initial target of 2015, while the apartments, shopping complex and conference facilities would be finished by 2018.
Shangri-La has already opened the resort in Hambantota, where Sri Lanka is considering creating a special economic zone for Chinese investors.
The 300-room Hambantota resort on 145 acres of beach-front land is the first of the two luxury property projects in Sri Lanka that the Hong Kong-listed group has planned in a bid to cash in on the boom in tourist arrivals following the end of the country’s 26-year war nearly eight years ago.
Sri Lanka’s tourist arrivals and revenue from tourism hit record highs in 2016.
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently manages 99 hotels around the world under the Shangri-La brand with a room inventory of over 40,000.
– Reuters
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FlySmiLes Winner receives return air ticket to fabulous Maldives
The winner of the ‘FlySmiLes – Dialog Axiata Register & Win Promotion’, Mr. Dayananda Kukulewithana, received a prize of a return air ticket to the fabulous Maldives on SriLankan Airlines.
“I always fly SriLankan Airlines because it’s our National Carrier and the service is excellent. I’m delighted to have won after joining the FlySmiLes programme and I look forward to travelling to the Maldives, as I haven’t been there before,” said Mr. Dayananda Kukulewithana, a retired school principal who is now the Human Resources Director of a private sector company.
The FlySmiLes – Dialog Axiata Register & Win Promotion, created awareness among Dialog Roaming customers of the many rewards of SriLankan Airlines FlySmiLes, and rewarded all new members during a recent six-week period with an additional 1,000 Bonus Miles.
Mr. Kukulewithana was presented his prize by Dimuthu Tennakoon (General Manager Commercial Operations of SriLankan Airlines) Chinthana Jayasekara (Head of Group Business Development, New Business Development of Dialog Axiata).
The frequent flyer programme of SriLankan Airlines, FlySmiLes is in partnership with oneworld which is an alliance of the world’s leading airlines coming together as one to provide customers with a seamless travel experience of the highest standard. SriLankan Airlines’ global network covers 100 cities in 47 countries and as a member of the oneworld global airline alliance, SriLankan also connects its passengers to the alliances worldwide network of more than 1,000 destinations in 160 countries.
Caption: Flysmiles winner Mr. Dayananda Kukulewithana (third from left) with the officials of the SriLankan Airlines and the Dialog Axiata.
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