Category: Daily Financial Times

Work in Sri Lanka (WISL), a volunteer-driven non-profit dedicated to supporting diaspora returnees, will host its flagship Work in Sri Lanka Conference on 17 December at Cinnamon Life, bringing together high-level Government advisers, industry leaders, recent returnees, and globally experienced Sri Lankans exploring a potential move back home.

Since re-launching its activities this year, WISL has hosted three successful networking events attended by more than 150 recent and prospective returnees representing the UK, US, Middle East, Europe, Singapore, and Australia.

These gatherings have sparked meaningful dialogue between global talent and the local business community and have strengthened a unique network of senior professionals, founders, and policymakers committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s ‘brain gain’ efforts.

The upcoming conference builds on this momentum by bringing both sides of this network, diaspora talent and Sri Lankan industry leadership, into one room to exchange insights, assess opportunities, and explore pathways for return, investment, and long-term contribution.

The conference will feature two key panels and a Fireside Conversation.

The Fireside Conversation, which will focus on the topic ‘Economic Outlook and Stability,’ will feature Chief Presidential Adviser on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, LYNEAR Wealth Management Chairman and former Central Bank of Sri Lanka Governor Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy, and LYNEAR Wealth Management Managing Director and Co-Founder Dr. Naveen Gunawardane.

The Industry Panel will focus on ‘Key Sectors Driving Sri Lanka Forward,’ and will feature WSO2 Founder, CEO and Director Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana, Magellan Champlain Founder and CEO Sarrah Sammoon, TWC Holdings Founder, Chairman and Managing Director Thilan Wijesinghe, and Nations Trust Bank CEO Hemantha Gunetilleke.

The Returnee Panel will be centre on ‘Lessons from Recent Returnees,’ and will feature Uber Country Manager Varun Wijewardane, Acuity Knowledge Partners Associate Director Niluki Arsacularatne, and OCTAVE – John Keells Group Chief Scientist Sadeep Jayasumana.

WISL Co-Founder Nayana Samaranayake said: ‘Many Sri Lankans abroad are open to the idea of returning, investing, or contributing – but they often don’t know where to start. What they need first is clarity, honest information, and a genuine connection to people on the ground who understand the realities. Our goal is to create a space where they can access insights without conditions, meet others who have made the journey home, and feel supported in making an informed and confident decision about Sri Lanka.’

The conference will be held on 17 December from 6 p.m. onwards at Cinnamon Life, Colombo.

Hyundai took centre stage as the title sponsor of the Colombo Motorshow held at BMICH on the 21, 22, and 23 November, marking the event as one of the brand’s most significant showcases in Sri Lanka to date. This event served as a platform for Hyundai to unveil its latest innovations while prioritising sustainable mobility and highlighting the strength of its partnership with Abans Auto.

The event was attended by many dignitaries and exciting reveals, while the crowd was treated to the newest models of the brand being revealed for their perusal.

Representing Hyundai Motor India at the event was Vertical Head of Exports Hamendra Singh Tomer, whose presence underscored Hyundai’s deepening commitment to the Sri Lankan market. The event was also represented by the Abans Auto Directors Rusi Pestonjee and Chinthaka Perera, in addition to Deputy General Manager Rajitha Ranasinghe.

Hyundai Motor India made the commitment to work closely with Abans Auto, the official distributor of Hyundai vehicles since 2019, to explore a long-term, sustainable partnership that will elevate the brand’s footprint across the island.

A major highlight of the exhibition was the grand launch of the all-new Hyundai Palisade 2026, the brand’s flagship SUV. With its commanding presence and design, advanced safety suite, and comfortable interior, the 2026 Palisade represents Hyundai’s continued leadership in premium mobility.

Hyundai also revealed the first-ever full-sized 7-seater electric SUV; the Hyundai Ioniq 9, a landmark moment for Sri Lanka’s transition toward sustainable transportation. With its futuristic design, innovative battery technology, and spacious three-row configuration, the new Ioniq 9 will undoubtedly redefine the electric SUV experience for families seeking both comfort and eco-friendly performance.

Adding to the excitement was the debut of the 2026 Hyundai Venue, the brand’s next-generation sub-compact SUV. Known for its agility, versatility, and youthful energy, the new Venue brings an elevated design, and upgraded efficiency to one of Hyundai’s most popular segments.

Backed by the trusted legacy of over fifty years of the Abans Group, Hyundai and Abans Auto are poised to pave the road to a new chapter of sustainable mobility in Sri Lanka. Together, they aim to deliver world-class automotive solutions, expand electric mobility offerings, and ensure customers enjoy the excellence that Hyundai is known for globally.

With groundbreaking vehicle launches and a strengthened commitment to the Sri Lankan market, Hyundai’s presence at the Colombo Motorshow marks the beginning of an exciting future that is fuelled by sustainable innovation.

The Insurance Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (IRCSL), the national authority responsible for supervising, regulating, and developing the insurance industry, has announced the launch of ‘InsureChamp 2025’ – Inter-University Insurance Quiz Competition, on Thursday, 20 November 2025.

‘InsureChamp 2025′ has been introduced as a national platform that brings together bright undergraduates from state universities and recognised higher education institutions across Sri Lanka. The initiative aims to enhance awareness of insurance as a vital pillar of financial security and national resilience while encouraging learning, dialogue, and deeper understanding among future leaders. Through this competition, IRCSL seeks to inspire a new generation that values protection, stability, preparedness, and financial literacy, and recognises the important role of insurance in both personal and national development.

The much-anticipated competition was held at the Sapphire Hall, BMICH, Colombo 07, with the participation of representatives from universities, insurance companies, and IRCSL, demonstrating the collective commitment to strengthening the next generation of insurance professionals.

IRCSL Chairman Dr. Ajith Raveendra De Mel emphasised the importance of empowering future insurance leaders and commended the participation of 17 universities and higher education institutions, reflecting the growing interest of youth in the insurance sector. He highlighted that the core objective of InsureChamp 2025 is to deepen students’ understanding of insurance and its significance in financial security and national development. He also pointed out expanding career opportunities in actuarial science, risk management, data analytics, and product development fields, offering competitive prospects and strong pathways for career growth.

Dr. De Mel encouraged universities to introduce degree programs and specialised courses in insurance and reaffirmed IRCSL’s commitment to supporting academia and industry partners in developing a skilled workforce. He further noted that insurance is globally recognised as a respected profession and outlined IRCSL’s plans to advance youth-focused initiatives through enhanced university collaborations, research promotion, the inclusion of insurance content in school curricula, and expanded internship opportunities.

The event also featured a Keynote Address by the Chief Guest, University Grants Commission Vice Chairman Senior Professor K.L. Wasantha Kumara, who underscored the importance of developing undergraduate talent to strengthen the future of Sri Lanka’s insurance sector. He emphasised the pivotal role of youth in building a more financially secure and resilient nation.

The grand finale of ‘InsureChamp 2025’ concluded with remarkable achievements by the participating universities:

Champion: University of Kelaniya

First Runner-Up: University of Peradeniya

Second Runner-Up: University of Jaffna

A special highlight of the event was the presentation of the Team Elegance Award to NIBM, in recognition of their professionalism, teamwork, and exceptional presentation throughout the competition. Further, Certificates of Participation were presented to all participants in recognition of their engagement in the event.

Through their participation, students not only brought pride to their universities but also contributed to a national effort to build an insurance-aware and financially responsible society. IRCSL believes that initiatives such as ‘InsureChamp 2025’ will play a key role in preparing the next generation of leaders capable of advancing Sri Lanka’s financial and insurance landscape with confidence.

The United States has extended significant humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka to support nationwide relief efforts in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, which caused severe damage across multiple regions.

The assistance was presented by US Ambassador Julie Chung, USAF Lt. Col. Van Pinxteren, and Defence Attaché Matthew House.

As part of the support package, the United States has provided two C-130 aircraft, two bowsers, and a forklift to strengthen logistics capacities needed to transport humanitarian supplies to affected communities in the Northern, Eastern and Central regions. Additionally, 60 personnel from the US Air Force have been deployed to assist with relief operations.

Sri Lankan officials expressed their gratitude for the timely support, which will bolster ongoing national efforts to reach displaced families and restore essential services in cyclone-affected areas.

The Government has decided to do away with the five year no-pay leave granted to public sector employees with effect from 1 January 2026. The no-pay leave system was introduced in 2022 by a Cabinet decision amidst the economic crisis. The leave was granted to pensionable officers without prejudice to their seniority.

Public Administration Ministry Secretary S. Aloka Bandara said the Cabinet has approved a proposal to cancel the five-year leave option, which was used by many to seek alternate employment either locally or overseas. The Government said there will be no leave extension for those who have already obtained such leave, while fresh applications will also no longer be processed.

The system was introduced during the economic crisis as there was the need to reduce the salary bill of the Government, but it has also led to many professionals including doctor’s engineers, nurses and many others leaving the country to take up jobs overseas. This in turn led to a shortage in many areas particularly in the medical field.

When Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa visited the UK in October, he called on Sri Lankan specialist doctors working overseas to consider returning home, citing a shortage of medical specialists in the state health service.

‘There is currently a shortage of specialist doctors in our health service. I assure that if you return to work in Sri Lanka, you will be reinstated in the same positions with all the previous service benefits,’ the Minister told a meeting with Sri Lankan doctors employed in the U.K.

But how many will be willing to take up the Minister’s request and return to the country? It’s likely to be few, if any at all.

One of the main fallouts of the 2022 economic crisis, on the back of the Easter Sunday bombings, was pushing many Sri Lankans to migrate. Unlike many who used to travel overseas, mainly to the Middle East, for employment, in 2022, a large number of people decided to migrate. Some took jobs overseas while others used the education route to get a foothold in a developed country and seek employment. This trend may have slowed down but the numbers waiting to leave the country seeking greener pastures is still high. The recent Ditwah cyclone and the inevitable economic cost will no doubt push even more people to leave the country.

Migration is taking away from the country many who are needed. Doctors, nurses, teachers, academics, sportspersons, specialists in the field of IT, economics, the hospitality and tourism industry and the list goes on. Many are taking up offers from other countries and many have secured lucrative jobs overseas.

One big drawback in the country remains the low pay, high costs and lack of benefits, all of which does little to encourage people to remain in the country. Many are not only making more money but also enjoying a better quality of life overseas.

The Government cancelling the no-paid benefit for State sector employees is understandable given the dire need for them in the country. They now have to decide between quitting their jobs and seeking other forms of employment or serving their full term in office. But such measures will not help retain talented and educated Sri Lankans who want a better life than on offer in the homeland. In an ideal world, citizens of a country should be able to live, work, raise families, spend time with aging parents etc., in the country of their birth but this is true of only a few economically developed countries with a high standard of living. So, putting the brakes on migration isn’t easy. Realistically, the effects of the cyclone and the massive damage it has caused is likely to push even more people to leave the country.

Agriculture Minister K.D. Lalkantha yesterday voiced sharp concern over the continued red-level landslide alerts in Kandy, saying the lack of clearance from the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) is stalling basic recovery work and planning.

He warned that, with risks still elevated in multiple locations, authorities are being forced to contemplate options as drastic as relocating communities.

He said officials in the district cannot move ahead with restoration because the NBRO has not yet confirmed that conditions are stable. More than 20 areas in Kandy remain under a Level 3 red warning, the highest category issued by the NBRO, with similar alerts affecting Kegalle, Kurunegala, and Matale.

Lalkantha noted that while some agencies had discussed reopening schools, those same buildings may instead have to accommodate additional evacuees if conditions deteriorate. He said eight teams are currently operating on the ground, with the possibility of deploying more.

He added that the Government has examined the option of requesting international assistance, but that decisions on relocation, the continued use of schools as shelters, and the resumption of routine activities all depend on clear guidance from technical authorities.

‘We cannot shift entire administrative divisions,’ he said, noting that specific high-risk areas have been identified for priority action. He also underscored the need for divisional coordination committees to convene frequently, alongside district-level bodies, to manage the expanded workload linked to post-disaster recovery.

The Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC was named Sri Lanka’s Best Trade Finance Bank at the prestigious Euromoney Transaction Banking Awards 2025, in recognition of the bank’s strong performance and continued contribution to supporting Sri Lanka’s export and import sectors.

This global recognition from Euromoney, a leading authority in financial markets, celebrates institutions that demonstrate innovation, leadership, and measurable impact in transaction banking across cash management, payments, trade finance, and technology. Commercial Bank is Sri Lanka’s clear market leader in trade finance, commanding a 21% share in exports and a 14.26% share in imports, demonstrating its strong presence across both segments.

In 2024, the bank supported over $ 5 billion in trade transactions, underscoring its unmatched role in enabling the flow of goods, services, and foreign exchange. Its leadership has also been recognised regionally by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which named Commercial Bank its Leading Partner Bank in Sri Lanka for the fourth consecutive year under the Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program.

At the forefront of Commercial Bank’s recent innovations is ComBank TradeLink, Sri Lanka’s first fully integrated, end-to-end digital trade finance platform. The system brings all trade finance operations – from Letters of Credit to export collections and shipping guarantees – into one secure online interface, providing customers real-time visibility, faster processing, and paperless convenience. This digitalisation drive has redefined the client experience, reduced manual processes and improved turnaround times across thousands of transactions.

The bank’s commitment to advancing Sri Lanka’s trade sector extends beyond technology. Through initiatives such as the ComBank Trade Club, which facilitates connections between buyers and suppliers both locally and internationally, and ComBank LEAP | GlobalLinker, a digital business networking platform for SMEs, the Bank is actively building bridges between Sri Lankan entrepreneurs and global markets. Its Diribala Exporter Development Program further empowers micro, small, and medium enterprises to become export-ready, providing access to expert guidance, training, and financial support.

Reflecting on the award, Commercial Bank said the recognition from Euromoney was a tribute to the trust placed in the bank by Sri Lanka’s exporters and importers, and to the dedication of its trade finance teams who continue to innovate and deliver excellence in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Mark and Comm has been honoured at Campaign’s Agency of the Year Awards 2025 (South Asia), taking home a Silver award and emerging as the sole agency in the Rest of South Asia PR Agency of the Year category. The ceremony took place on 2 December at ITC Maratha in Mumbai.

The Campaign Asia-Pacific Agency of the Year Awards is the region’s most prestigious recognition of excellence in advertising, marketing, and communications. Judged by leading client marketers, the awards celebrate outstanding achievements across creative, media, digital, PR, and specialised categories.

Mark and Comm Managing Director Thanzyl Thajudeen said: ‘This recognition is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering PR-led strategies that drive real results for our clients. Being the only agency shortlisted speaks volumes about the calibre of work we’ve been producing where we create authentic connections that resonate with diverse audiences.’

Mark and Comm’s global reach is amplified through strategic international affiliations. The agency is a member of the GlobalCom PR Network, joining over 80 independent PR agencies operating across more than 100 countries worldwide. Additionally, the agency maintains non-exclusive affiliations with two leading global PR agencies, and is a corporate member of the PRCA APAC, with Thajudeen serving on the PRCA APAC Board and CIPR International Committee.

Mark and Comm was also recently appointed as exclusive reseller and distributor for Hootsuite and Talkwalker platforms across Sri Lanka and the Maldives, bringing enterprise-level social listening, media monitoring, and social media management solutions to these rapidly digitising markets, positioning the agency at the forefront of digital intelligence solutions in the region.

The agency has been instrumental in elevating PR and media industry standards across Sri Lanka, including pro-bono partnerships as strategic communications partner for Women in Tech Sri Lanka and ZeroPlastic Movement.

Mark and Comm Director and Head of Advocacy Chamanie Nanayakkara said: ‘This award energises us to push boundaries further. We’re focused on taking Mark and Comm to the global stage while continuing to serve our clients with strategic excellence and contributing positively to society through purpose-driven partnerships.’

tourism potential at the 8th edition of Travel Expo Ankara – International Tourism and Travel Fair, held from 20 to 22 November at the ATO Congresium. The Sri Lanka stand, organised by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara, attracted a large number of visitors and generated significant interest among travel professionals, investors, and media representatives.

Travel Expo Ankara is recognised as a premier international tourism exhibition, highlighting destination, cultural, wellness, congress, sports, and camping tourism.

The Sri Lankan stand was formally inaugurated by the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Trkiye Niluka Kadurugamuwa marking the beginning of three days of cultural engagement, tourism promotion, and business networking. Visitors to the pavilion were introduced to the island’s multifaceted tourism experiences, presented in both Turkish and English, highlighting Sri Lanka’s strengths in destination tourism, cultural tourism, wellness tourism, adventure travel, and more.

In addition to destination promotion, the pavilion also featured authentic Sri Lankan value-added products, including Ceylon tea, which was served to visitors throughout the event, adding a unique cultural touch and enhancing the overall Sri Lankan experience.

The Sri Lankan booth received visibility across the Turkish media, with coverage from Television channels, YouTubers, bloggers, and social media influencers. This exposure contributed to Sri Lanka’s promotional success at the fair.

On the sidelines of the exhibition, Ambassador Kadurugamuwa met with Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of Trkiye Nadir Alpaslan, and Ankara Chamber of Commerce President Grsel Baran. The interaction focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and exploring new avenues for partnership in tourism and related sectors.

The 8th edition of the Travel Expo Ankara welcomed approximately 10,000 participants and exhibitors, providing an influential platform for global tourism promotion and collaboration.

As a citizen of this country, I am increasingly troubled by an issue that affects every one of us, yet remains insufficiently discussed and poorly addressed by those in positions of authority. The relationship between doctors, patients, and hospitals-once built on trust, respect, and responsibility-has slowly developed serious faults that now burden the people of Sri Lanka. What was once considered a noble service appears to have shifted into a system strained by inefficiency, profit-driven motives, and a lack of accountability.

Every profession operates within a framework of rules, regulations, and ethical standards. The medical profession is no exception. Doctors, nurses, and other allied health professionals carry the immense responsibility of safeguarding human life-a responsibility that demands discipline, compassion, and respect for the people they serve. With scientific and technological advancements, modern healthcare has evolved dramatically, and people across the world depend on competent medical professionals and well-managed hospitals.

Sri Lanka’s free public healthcare system has been a cornerstone of our society for decades. It has supported millions, especially in times of crisis. Alongside it, private healthcare has expanded rapidly since the establishment of the first private hospital in 1905. Today, private medical institutions-large and small-operate across the country, forming a significant part of the healthcare landscape. This growth, however, has brought with it a shift in priorities. What should fundamentally be a service-oriented sector now functions increasingly as a profit-driven industry.

Sri Lanka currently maintains a doctor-to-population ratio of 1.192 per 1,000 people. While this is close to the World Health Organisation’s guideline of 1:1,000, the real-world experience of patients paints a different picture. Delays, long waiting times, and questionable service quality raise an important question: Are we truly receiving care that enhances the quality of life, or are we merely meeting minimum numbers without ensuring meaningful service?

Private hospitals, despite charging high consultation and service fees, often fall short in providing a satisfactory patient experience. A common frustration among patients is the long delay in meeting doctors-even when appointments have been pre-booked and paid for. It is not uncommon for doctors to arrive 30 minutes to 90 minutes late. Hospital staff often seem untrained in basic patient communication, offering little to no information about delays. This leaves patients anxious, confused, and helpless, with no one to turn to for clarification.

Many individuals travel long distances to consult specialists, only to end up waiting late into the night, struggling to find transportation home. What is often forgotten is that people do not visit hospitals for leisure-they come seeking relief from discomfort, pain, and uncertainty. Respecting their time and emotional state is a fundamental part of patient care.

Hospital management must take proactive measures to enforce punctuality, implement transparent communication systems, and prioritise patient comfort. If institutions fail to acknowledge and rectify these problems, patients will continue to shift toward smaller community-level hospitals that offer more predictable and humane service. Those who address this long-standing issue will ultimately earn the trust and loyalty of the people.

It is important to remember that the medical profession is guided by powerful ethical principles. From the ancient Hippocratic Oath to the modern World Medical Association’s Declaration of Geneva, doctors vow to serve humanity, prioritise patient well-being, maintain confidentiality, and uphold dignity and compassion. These principles should remain at the heart of medical practice, regardless of the institution or setting.

Sri Lanka’s healthcare system has tremendous potential. But to move forward, we must openly discuss these challenges and encourage accountability. Patients deserve respect, timely service, and clear communication-qualities that should be non-negotiable in any healthcare environment.

Only through collective effort and genuine commitment can we rebuild a system that truly serves the people.