Category: Daily Financial Times

The 55th William Gopallawa Shield rugby encounter between Vidyartha College and Ananda College will take centre stage at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium on 4 July.

Kick-off is scheduled for 4 p.m.

Recognised as Sri Lanka’s second-oldest inter-school rugby fixture, the William Gopallawa Shield has produced many memorable battles since its inception in 1968 and remains one of the most prestigious annual school rugby encounters.

Ananda College enter the contest on the back of a solid 2026 Dialog Schools Rugby League campaign and will look to capitalise on their experience under skipper Deneth Chamuditha and Head Coach Anura Walpola.

Hosts Vidyartha College, led by Sadew Dilshara and coached by Anurudha Wilwara, will be brimming with confidence after securing promotion to the 2027 Dialog Schools Rugby League Division 1A. They will be determined to reclaim the shield in front of their home supporters.

Of the previous 54 encounters, Vidyartha have won 28, Ananda 24, while two matches ended in draws.(SJ)

The Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA) on Tuesday launched the Sri Lanka Tennis Premier League (SLTPL) at The Studio, Cinnamon Life City of Dreams, unveiling a landmark franchise-based sporting property designed to redefine the future of tennis in Sri Lanka through professional league management, corporate partnerships and technology-driven tournament operations.

The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including SLTA President Iqbal Bin Issak, Vice President Rukmal Cooray, SLTPL Director Roshan Silva, and Steering Committee members Aasiri Iddamalgoda, Sanjay Wijemanne and Arjun Fernando.

The event also attracted potential franchise owners, prospective sponsors and strategic partners, reflecting strong early interest in the League’s commercial and sporting potential.

Set to be held from 27 to 30 August 2026, the inaugural edition of the SLTPL will feature eight franchise teams, bringing together Sri Lanka’s leading tennis talent across multiple age categories in an innovative team-based competition.

The League has been conceived as a long-term platform that extends beyond competition, with the objective of creating sustainable commercial value for the sport while providing players, franchises, sponsors and fans with an enhanced tennis experience.

A significant milestone at the launch was the announcement of the League’s founding commercial partners, who have committed to supporting the SLTPL from its inaugural season.

CL Synergy was announced as the Title Sponsor, Wilson as the Powered By Partner, Cinnamon Life as the Hospitality Partner, and DIMO as the Exclusive Luxury Automobile Partner.

League officials presented commemorative tokens of appreciation to each partner in recognition of their confidence in supporting the League during its formative stages and contributing to the establishment of a new era for Sri Lankan tennis.

Another defining feature of the launch was the unveiling of the League’s integrated digital ecosystem, developed specifically to manage every aspect of the tournament.

The official website, [www.sltpl.lk](http://www.sltpl.lk), together with the SLTPL Digital Platform, provides a comprehensive technology infrastructure encompassing player registration, player management, franchise auctions, tournament scheduling, live scoring, results management, player rankings, statistical reporting and performance analytics.

Designed as a fully integrated operational platform, the system enables efficient administration while significantly enhancing transparency, accessibility and the overall experience for players, franchises, officials, sponsors, the media and fans.

The launch generated keen interest from the media, with strong coverage anticipated across both traditional and digital platforms. The initiative has also received enthusiastic support from the wider tennis community, including players, coaches and administrators, who view the League as a significant step forward for the sport in Sri Lanka.

Speaking at the launch, League officials highlighted that the SLTPL represents more than a tournament; it is a strategic investment in the future of Sri Lankan tennis. By introducing a professionally managed franchise model, the League seeks to create new commercial opportunities, strengthen player pathways, encourage greater private sector participation and elevate the overall standard of the sport.

The League is expected to serve as a catalyst for increased investment in tennis infrastructure, player development and high-performance competition, while creating a sustainable ecosystem capable of supporting the sport’s long-term growth.

With strong institutional leadership from the Sri Lanka Tennis Association, the support of leading corporate partners and the deployment of modern digital infrastructure, the Sri Lanka Tennis Premier League aims to establish itself as one of Sri Lanka’s premier sporting properties and a benchmark for the professional management of sport in the country.

As preparations continue for the inaugural tournament in August, the League is expected to announce further strategic partnerships, franchise developments and player-related milestones in the lead-up to the opening serve.

Senok Trade Combine Ltd., one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted and diversified business conglomerates with a proud heritage spanning over 45 years, recently handed over a fleet of Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab vehicles to NEM Construction, further strengthening its partnership with Sri Lanka’s growing construction and infrastructure sector.

The fleet delivery marks another significant milestone for Senok’s automotive operations and highlights the growing confidence of corporate customers in the reliability, durability, and performance of the Foton Tunland G7. The vehicles were assembled locally at the state-of-the-art Western Automobile Assembly (WAA) facility in Kurunegala, demonstrating Senok’s commitment to supporting local manufacturing and delivering internationally recognised vehicle standards to Sri Lankan customers.

The official handover ceremony was attended by senior representatives from both organisations representing the senior management.

Speaking at the occasion, officials highlighted the importance of dependable mobility solutions for the construction industry and emphasised how the Foton Tunland G7 has emerged as a preferred choice among businesses seeking a combination of rugged capability, modern technology, safety, and value.

The Foton Tunland G7 is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of commercial and industrial operations, offering powerful performance, advanced safety features, exceptional load-carrying capability, and superior driving comfort. These qualities make it ideally suited for construction, engineering, and infrastructure development projects across the country.

A key factor behind customer confidence in Foton vehicles is Senok’s extensive after-sales support network. Backed by the Group’s more than 45 years of experience in Sri Lanka’s automotive industry, customers benefit from island-wide service support, genuine spare parts availability, trained technical personnel, and comprehensive maintenance solutions designed to maximise vehicle uptime and operational efficiency.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka yesterday in a public notice named 25 companies and platforms operating illegal pyramid schemes.

In terms of Section 83 (C) of the Banking Act, No. 30 of 1988, as amended, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka has conducted an investigation, ascertained and determined that ‘Infinity Rover Ltd.’ has engaged, conducted and promoted a prohibited scheme.

Further, the following companies/apps have also been ascertained and determined as prohibited schemes under Section 83 (C) of the Banking Act, No. 30 of 1988, as amended.

1. Tiens Lanka Health Care Ltd.

2. Best Life International Ltd.

3. Mark – Wo International Ltd.

4. VML International Ltd.

5. Global Lifestyle Lanka Ltd.

6. Fast3Cycle International Ltd.

7. Sport Chain app, Sport Chain zs

society Sri Lanka

8. OnmaxDT

9. MTFE App, MTFE SL Group, MTFE Success Lanka, MTFE DSCC Group

10. Fastwin Ltd.

11. Fruugo Oline App/ Fruugo

Oline Ltd.

12. Ride to Three Freedom Ltd.

13. Qnet/ Questnet

14. Era Miracle Ltd. And Genesis Business School

15. Ledger Block

16. Isimaga International Ltd.

17. Beecoin App and

Sunbird Foundation

18. Windex Trading

19. The Enrich Life Ltd.

20. Smart Win Entrepreneur Ltd.

21. Net Fore International Ltd./ Netrrix

22. Pro Care (Pvt) Ltd., Shade of

Procare Ltd.

23. SGO/sgomine.com

24. I.C.A.N. Advertising Ltd. and affiliates icanonlineadvertising.com/bannercuts.com/bannercuts.lk/bannercusts.net/bannercuts.org

25. Infinity Rover Ltd.

eMarketingEye, Asia’s leading digital marketing agency specialising in the hospitality sector, has announced EME Level Up: AI Hospitality Connect, Sri Lanka 2026, a premier invitation-only conference for the hospitality industry. The event is scheduled to take place on 14 July 2026, at Shangri-La Colombo.

Under the theme ‘Think. Innovate. Elevate.’, the conference will spotlight the rapidly growing role of artificial intelligence, digital marketing, data-driven strategies, and emerging technologies in transforming how hospitality brands connect with guests, strengthen their digital visibility, and accelerate business growth.

EME Level Up: AI Hospitality Connect, Sri Lanka 2026 is set to be a premier gathering for hospitality leaders, expected to bring together over 180 delegates from Sri Lanka and the Maldives for an afternoon full of insights, innovation, and meaningful networking. Featuring 7+ curated sessions and distinguished speakers, the conference will explore the latest trends, strategies, and technologies shaping the future of hospitality, digital marketing, AI visibility, and direct bookings.

Designed for hoteliers, marketing directors, hotel owners and industry decision-makers, EME Level Up: AI Hospitality Connect, Sri Lanka 2026 will offer practical insights, thought leadership, and real-world perspectives to help hospitality brands remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Sessions will cover a wide range of future-focused topics, including AI-driven marketing, generative search and AI visibility, direct booking strategies, social media, data analytics, and the latest in hotel technology. Delegates will engage in interactive sessions, panel discussions, case studies, and product showcases, and the event will culminate in a dedicated networking session designed to foster new industry connections.

“EME Level Up: AI Hospitality Connect, Sri Lanka 2026 presents a prime opportunity for hospitality leaders to connect with industry experts, explore the evolving role of AI and digital marketing in hospitality, and gain valuable insights into the future of digital hospitality,” said eMarketingEye CEO Rajitha Dahanayake.

EME Level Up: AI Hospitality Connect, Sri Lanka 2026 is proudly hosted by eMarketingEye, in collaboration with supporting partners Aven Hospitality, TrustYou, and Lighthouse, bringing together leading industry expertise and innovation to support meaningful dialogue within the hospitality sector. The event is further amplified through the support of TravelTalk Asia as the Official Trade Media Partner and DailyFT as the Official Print Media Partner.

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the procurement process to introduce a technology-based supervisory solution for the Banking Supervision Department of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), with technical assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The move is aimed at modernising banking regulation and supervision.

The Banking Supervision Department, which oversees licensed banks to safeguard the stability and soundness of the banking system, currently relies heavily on physical record management for regulatory and supervisory functions.

‘The majority of these functions are performed through physical record management, and the implementation of a technology-based supervisory solution to improve the efficiency of these functions has been identified as a priority for the Banking Supervision Department,’ Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced the decision at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday.

He said the new digital platform, identified as a priority following a needs assessment conducted with technical assistance from the ADB, is expected to improve the preparation, review, storage and retrieval of supervisory documents while enhancing overall regulatory efficiency.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in his capacity as the Finance, Planning and Economic Development Minister.

A three-wicket haul by Arokiyanathar Vinoshan and two each by Sanath Dasanayaka and Arjuna Perera helped People’s Leasing PLC crush Maliban Biscuits by 41 runs to emerge champions of Tier B of the Citizens Development Business Finance (CDB)-sponsored Mercantile Cricket Association (MCA) T10 Cricket Tournament.

19 teams participated in the Tier ‘B’ tournament, which was played on matting wickets.

Maliban Biscuits, undefeated coming into the final, elected to field first under lights at the CCC Ground on Sunday evening. 20 plus scores from Chathura Anuradha and Esitha Gimhana helped People’s Leasing post 84/5, which their bowlers, led by Arokiyanathan Vinoshan (3/09), Sanath Dasanayake (2/08), and Arjuna Perera (2/05), defended to win by 41 runs.

In the afternoon, two wickets each from Vanith de Silva, Yasiru Jasinghe, and Yuthika Silva helped Hayleys Group overcome HNB Assurance by four wickets to clinch third spot. sssss

Best Bowler: Dulanjana Wijesinghe of HNB Assurance

Best Batsman: Mohammad Shilmi of Maliban Biscuits

Player of the Tournament: Chathuranga Dewapriya of Maliban Biscuits

Player of the Final: Chathura Anuradha of People’s Leasing PLC

Third place

Hayleys Group overcome HNB Assurance by four wickets

Hayleys Group ‘B’ 87/7 (10) (Lahiru Dawatage 21, Yasiru Jasinghe 15; Dasis Manchanayake 2-15, Dulanjana Wijesinghe 1-10,Taariq Naziar 3-19, Chamod Piyumal 1-25)

HNB Assurance 83/8 (10) (Linal Subasinghe 37, Chamod Piyumal 19, Taariq Nazier 12*; Vanith de Silva 2-12, Yasiru Jasinghe 2-01, Yuthika Silva 2-09)

Final

People’s Leasing win by 41 runs

People’s Leasing 84/5 (10) (Chathura Anuradha 29, Esitha Gimhana 20, Isuru Gunasekera 15; Chathuranga Dewapriya 1-18, Mohamad Shilmi 1-15, Chamara Rathnayake 1-18, Dilip Sandaruwan 1-04)

Maliban Biscuits 43/8 (10) (Tharindu Siriwardena 11; Sanath Dasanayake 2-08, Nadun Kulathilaka 1-13, Arokkiyanathar Vinoshan 3-09, Arjuna Perera 2-05) – (P.D. De Silva)

Dr. J.G.L.S. Jayawardena has been appointed as Director General of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI), the country’s main investment promotion agency, in a move aimed at strengthening coordination between investment promotion and fiscal policy.

The appointment was made by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, with the formal letter of appointment handed over to Dr. Jayawardena by Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake.

Dr. Jayawardena currently serves as Director General (Corporate Affairs) at the Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry, placing him within the core fiscal policy apparatus at a time when Sri Lanka is seeking to accelerate foreign direct investment inflows and restructure its investment facilitation framework.

The BOI plays a central role in attracting and facilitating foreign investment, particularly in export-oriented industries and special economic zones, and is expected to be a key institution in the Government’s push to lift growth and expand external sector earnings.

Sampath Bank PLC has been recognised with three prestigious accolades at the World Finance Banking Awards 2026, securing the titles of Sri Lanka’s Best Retail Bank, Best Commercial Bank, and Best Corporate Governance – Sri Lanka 2026.

Presented by UK-based World Finance magazine, the awards recognise institutions that demonstrate excellence in performance, innovation, leadership, customer value, long-term sustainability and Governance.

The recognition marks the 12th year that Sampath Bank has been named both Sri Lanka’s Best Retail Bank and Best Commercial Bank, reflecting a sustained ability to serve the evolving needs of individuals, entrepreneurs, corporates, and communities across the country. The addition of the Best Corporate Governance – Sri Lanka 2026 accolade further highlights the Bank’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of accountability, transparency, ethical leadership, and responsible stewardship.

Managing Director/CEO Sanjaya Gunawardana said: ‘Receiving these three recognitions from World Finance is a significant milestone for Sampath Bank. The awards reflect the trust our customers place in us, the dedication of our employees, and the confidence of our stakeholders. While the retail and commercial banking honours recognise our ability to consistently deliver meaningful value and innovative financial solutions, the governance accolade affirms the strength of the principles that guide every decision we make. Together, these achievements reinforce our commitment to building a resilient, future-ready financial institution that contributes to the progress of Sri Lanka.’

World Finance evaluates financial institutions through a rigorous assessment process that considers financial performance, innovation, operational excellence, customer experience, sustainability, leadership, and governance. The publication’s global perspective and stringent selection criteria have established the awards as a respected benchmark within the international banking industry.

Sampath Bank’s recognition for corporate governance reflects the strength of an integrated governance framework supported by robust Board oversight, proactive risk management practices, and a culture that prioritises responsibility and ethical conduct. These foundations continue to support the Bank’s resilience, stability, and ability to create sustainable value for stakeholders in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

The dual banking honours recognise more than a decade of consistent performance and customer-focused innovation. Throughout this period, Sampath Bank has continued to strengthen its digital capabilities, expand access to financial services, support business growth, and introduce solutions that respond to changing customer expectations while contributing to national economic development.

The latest accolades build on a strong record of recognition for governance, sustainability, and responsible banking, including honours such as Asia’s Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility by Euromoney in 2024 and Sri Lanka’s Best Bank for ESG by Euromoney in 2025. Together, these achievements reinforce Sampath Bank’s position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading financial institutions and reflect its commitment to delivering long-term value through sound governance, responsible banking, and customer-focused innovation.

The Government has stepped up plans to develop the area surrounding the Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple and Beira Lake into a major tourism and cultural precinct under the proposed ‘Temple City’ project, according to the President’s Office.

The initiative was reviewed at a high-level discussion chaired by Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake at the Presidential Secretariat on Tuesday, where officials discussed implementation plans and measures to expedite the project.

According to the President’s Office, the Urban Development Authority (UDA), under the guidance of the Gangaramaya Temple, has proposed the project to transform the area surrounding one of Colombo’s best-known religious and cultural landmarks into an international tourism destination.

The development plan includes the construction of a pedestrian walkway around Beira Lake to improve accessibility for local and foreign visitors, together with landscaping, environmental beautification and the enhancement of tourism-related infrastructure.

The President’s Office said discussions focused on the project’s implementation roadmap and the next stages of development, with particular attention given to inter-agency coordination.

Dr. Kumanayake stressed the need for stronger collaboration among Government institutions and the support of all stakeholders to ensure the project is implemented expeditiously.

The President’s Office said the project is expected to transform the Beira Lake and Gangaramaya precinct into an internationally recognised tourism and cultural hub, while strengthening Colombo’s appeal as a destination for both domestic and international visitors.

Among those attending the meeting were Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple Chief Incumbent Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero, Prime Minister’s Secretary Pradeep Saputhanthri, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage, Urban Development Authority Chairman M.G. Hemachandra, Colombo Deputy Mayor Hemantha Kumara, representatives of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and other Government institutions, as well as senior security forces officials.