Category: Daily Financial Times

In the annals of Kotelawala Defence Academy (KDA) and Sri Lanka’s broader military academic heritage, the year 1979 stands as a defining turning point, when vision met purpose with uncommon clarity.

Recognising the imperative to elevate the intellectual and professional calibre of its officer corps, the Armed Forces of Sri Lanka embarked on a bold and forward-looking initiative: to establish an institution that would mould not only disciplined warriors, but well-rounded scholars and leaders of character. To this end, a distinguished delegation led by Maj VSM Jayawardene, and comprising eminent academics such as Prof. Patuwathavithana, Prof. P. W. Epasinghe, and Prof. Fonseka, undertook a seminal fact-finding mission to the renowned National Defence Academy in Pune, the world’s first tri-service military university and a benchmark of excellence.

Upon their return, the vision rapidly crystallised into action. In an extraordinary act of patriotism and foresight, Sir John Kotelawala, a towering statesman and former Prime Minister, gifted his sprawling 48-acre Kandawala Estate, together with all its movable and immovable assets, to the nation. This magnanimous gesture became the cornerstone upon which the academy would be built, igniting a national endeavour of profound significance.

Within days, concrete plans were set in motion to establish the Kotelawala Defence Academy. On 1st October 1980, as Sir John lay ailing at Colombo General Hospital, His excellency J. R. Jayewardene, accompanied by General Dennis Perera and his ADC Capt. TM Bohoran, conferred upon him the honorary rank of General, an honour befitting a man whose final act of service would indelibly shape the future of military education in Sri Lanka. The very next day, Sir John passed away; yet his enduring legacy was immortalised in the academy that would rise upon his beloved estate.

The Kotelawala Defence Academy was formally inaugurated on 11th October 1980, in the distinguished presence of the President, the Tri-Service Commanders, and a host of eminent guests. Though its beginnings were modest, with limited infrastructure, a handful of vehicles, and scarce resources, it was rich in spirit, resolve, and a shared sense of mission. Under the visionary leadership of Brig. CAMN Silva (Mike Silva), supported by Lt. Cdr. IK Lokubalasuriya, and a dedicated cadre including Maj. VSM Jayawardene (Adjutant), later succeeded by Maj. Nalin Angammana, alongside Maj. Lohan Goonewardene (Affectionately regarded as the ‘Father of KDA,’ he devoted his life to nurturing and shaping the pioneers of Intake 1, Intake 2 and 3), and Capt. Raj M. Fernando, the academy commenced its journey with unwavering dedication. Together, they went well beyond the call of duty, nurturing an environment of discipline, intellectual growth, and inspiration, laying a strong and enduring foundation for generations of cadets to come.

Legendary Intake 1 of KDA with three Service Commanders, Commandant and other officer Instructors of KDA in Dec, 1981

The historic first intake of Service Cadets entered the Kotelawala Defence Academy on 3 March 1981 marking the true commencement of its academic and military journey.

Intake Troop Commander was Flt. Lt. Sanka Wijesinghe, later succeeded by Fg. Off. Anura Silva and then Fg. Off. Mohan de Zoysa.

This pioneering batch comprised 34 young men of exceptional promise, 13 proceeding to the University of Colombo to pursue a BSc in Physical Sciences, 19 to the University of Moratuwa for Engineering degrees, and 2 specialising in Architecture. Their early days were defined by simplicity, resilience, and an unwavering spirit of determination. Accommodation was arranged on the upper floor of Sir John’s bungalow, while meals were served in a temporary mess constructed nearby. Service lectures were conducted within the bungalow premises itself, forming the nucleus of their military grounding.

Daily routines demanded both discipline and adaptability. Cadets attending the University of Colombo were transported by a modest TATA 1210, while their counterparts at Moratuwa commuted by bicycles, symbols of both humility and perseverance. Military training unfolded within the grounds of the Kandanala Estate, with the parade square situated adjacent to the hangars of Ratmalana Airport. Swimming training, an essential component of their development, took place on Sundays at the at St Thomas’s pool in Mount Lavinia.

Despite limited facilities, the cadets were moulded under rigorous standards and watchful mentorship, guided by some of the finest instructors drawn from the Army, Navy, and Air Force under the visionary leadership of Brigadier Mike Silva. Training extended beyond fieldcraft, service writing, tactics and academics to include refined aspects such as service etiquette and formal dining. Demonstrating remarkable initiative, this very first intake also organised the inaugural Cadet Ball, an elegant blend of discipline, tradition, and camaraderie, upholding service standards with pride, regardless of constraints.

At university, cadets were required to integrate with civilian undergraduates while maintaining the distinct discipline expected of future officers. Participation in sports was compulsory, and many excelled, bringing distinction to both their universities and the academy.

Notably, in 1984, two cadets from this intake rose to leadership at university level. Former Ananda College Captain of Basketball, Ranil Ranasinghe who captained Basketball, and former Nalanda’s Rugby captain Ajith Perera, who captained Rugby, led their respective teams to Inter-University championship titles, an early testament to the leadership qualities nurtured within KDA.

The culmination of their formative journey came with the first-ever Passing Out Parade, held on 2 May 1984, graced by J. R. Jayewardene as Chief Guest, alongside the Tri-Service Commanders and distinguished military leadership. The coveted Sword of Honour was awarded to Squadron Under Officer Rohith Rajaratne, who also secured first place in the Order of Merit, an extraordinary double distinction.

Recognition for excellence continued with Cadet Sergeant Peminda Jayasinha receiving the award for Military Subjects, while Cadet Corporal Ranil Ranasinghe was honoured as Best Sportsman. Upon commissioning, these officers were duly absorbed into the Army, Navy, and Air Force, embarking on careers of service and sacrifice. Over the years that followed, they would go on to uphold their oath with honour dedicating themselves to and security of the nation, and contributing steadfastly to the safeguarding of the motherland.

As time progressed, the officers of the pioneering first intake of the Kotelawala Defence Academy went on to serve the nation with unwavering commitment and honour. Among them, we pay the highest tribute and deepest gratitude to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka.

Passing out parade of Officer Cadets of Intake I, on 2nd May 1984 at the SLAF Base in Ratmalana. HE the President JR Jayewardene was the Chief Guest. Chief Guest HE the President inspecting the passing out parade of Intake 1, with Squadron Under Officer Rohitha Rajaratne

With the deepest reverence, we honour the gallant officers of Intake 1 who made the supreme sacrifice Captain Jagath Perera, Wing Commander Kamal Welgama, and Lt. Colonel Kishan Hettiarachchi. Their extraordinary courage, selfless devotion, and unwavering commitment to the nation represent the very highest ideals of service. Their legacy remains eternally enshrined, inspiring generations of officers to uphold the same noble values with pride and dedication.

We also remember with deep respect and heartfelt gratitude the members of Intake 1 who have since passed away due to natural causes: Major Samitha Ubayaratne, Lieutenant SSK Rajapakse, Commodore Nadarajah Kuruparan, and SSP Dharmaweera Chandrasiri (who left KDA in his second year to join the STF and was serving as an SSP at the time of his untimely demise). Each rendered invaluable service to the nation, and their dedication, commitment, and enduring comradeship remain an integral part of the KDA story. They are fondly remembered for the exemplary lives they led, both in and out of uniform.

Together, they represent a generation defined by duty, honour, and selfless service true sons of the soil whose legacy continues to inspire and endure.

Driven by courage, dedication, and perseverance, these five officers rose to the highest levels of their respective servicemen inspiring testament to the excellence fostered at Kotelawala Defence Academy.

Major General Dhammika Weerasekera, an alumnus of Royal College, Colombo, was an exceptional rower renowned for his remarkable stamina and technical excellence. He served the nation with distinction for 35 unblemished years, during which he held the key appointment of Director of Project Management at Defence Headquarters, making significant contributions to major national infrastructure projects.

Rear Admiral Wipula Jasinghe, also a proud product of Royal College Colombo, regular member of Defence services Badminton, Tennis and Table tennis teams, retired after 34 years of dedicated service as Director General of Civil Engineering. Notably, he became the first KDA officer to be awarded the prestigious Vishishta Seva Vibhushanaya (VSV) in recognition of his exceptional, distinguished, and loyal service to the nation.

Rear Admiral Sarath Mohotty, hailing from Rahula College Matara, excelled both in academics and sports, earning university colours in soccer and athletics. He retired as Director Intelligence of the Sri Lanka Navy, leaving behind a commendable legacy of service.

Air Vice Marshal Rohan Pathirage, another distinguished alumnus of Royal College Colombo, was a brilliant sportsman who earned both school and national-level athletic colours. Former Chairman Volleyball in SLAF, Vice President Volleyball federation, also functioned as Chairman Defence services games in 2015.He retired as Director of Project Management at Defence Headquarters, having also served as Director of Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering. Following retirement, he was re-mobilised, extending his exemplary and unblemished service to an impressive 43 years.

Air Vice Marshal Ajantha Silva, a former cricketer of S. Thomas’ College and Science College Matale, held several key appointments including Air Force Spokesman, Military Attaché to Pakistan, and Director of Aeronautical Engineering. demonstrating versatility and leadership throughout his distinguished career. The founding President of the KDU Alumni, a legendary and charismatic Air Vice Marshal, whose unwavering commitment and foresight transformed the Association and guided it to the distinguished standard it enjoys today.

Together, these officers embody the highest ideals of military professionalism and stand as proud ambassadors of KDA’s enduring legacy.

As the academy evolved in stature and purpose, a defining milestone was reached in 1988 when, through a landmark legislative amendment, it was elevated to university status as the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU). This transformation marked the dawn of a new era one that seamlessly blended military discipline with academic excellence, elevating the institution to national and international prominence.

As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Intake 1 and the enduring legacy of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, it is only fitting that we conclude with a tribute to the visionary whose selfless act made it all possible. General Sir John Kotelawala, with extraordinary foresight and patriotism, gifted his beloved Kandawala Estate to the nation an offering not merely of land, but of opportunity, purpose, and nation building. From that noble gesture has grown an institution that continues to yield immeasurable dividends: generations of disciplined leaders, distinguished officers, and accomplished professionals who serve Sri Lanka and the world with honour.

Today, what once was a private estate stands transformed into a beacon of excellence richly bearing fruit for the nation in the form of knowledge, leadership, and service. The legacy of General Sir John lives on not only in name, but in every cadet who passes through those gates, in every graduate who upholds the values instilled, and in every act of service rendered to the motherland.

As the curtain falls on this tribute to the pioneers of KDA Intake 1, we stand in deep gratitude for their courage, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment. As the very first intake of the Academy, they laid the foundation upon which generations of officers would follow. For 45 proud years, they have carried and cherished the enduring legacy of Kotelawala with honour, dignity, and distinction.

Their story is not merely history; it is a living legacy etched in the annals of the nation’s military heritage. In that legacy, the spirit of Kotelawala endures steadfast, inspiring, resilient, and forever in service to the nation.

The Nations Trust Bank (NTB) Golf Championship 2026 lived up to its billing as one of Sri Lanka’s premier corporate golf tournaments, drawing a record-breaking field of 345 golfers to the historic Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC).

The championship, which introduced three shotgun starts for the first time to accommodate the unprecedented number of entries, showcased high-quality golf across multiple divisions and reinforced the tournament’s growing stature on the local golfing calendar.

Competition was intense throughout the two-day event, with players battling for honours in the Ladies, Masters, Seniors and Men’s divisions.

Division Winners

Ladies Seniors: Kumudini Anthony emerged champion with 28 points, edging Kalyani Ranasinghe, who finished runner-up with 27 points.

Ladies Bronze: Liza Rebert claimed the title with 35 points, winning on the back-nine countback after finishing level with Jennifer Northcott.

Ladies Silver: Consistent Jade Jiggers produced one of the best performances in the women’s categories, securing victory with 37 points, ahead of Anouk Chitty’s 35.

Masters: Azad Mansoor impressed with a winning score of 44 points, while Reyaz Mihular settled for runner-up honours on 42 points after a back-nine countback.

Seniors: Rienzie Fernando carded an outstanding 43 points to lift the title, with Tissa Wickramasinghe finishing second on 39 points.

Men’s Division C: Mahesh Wijeratne topped the division with an excellent 45 points, defeating Mahesh Senaratne, who returned 43 points.

Men’s Division B: Ramesh Carvalho captured the title with 42 points, narrowly overcoming Srinath Rajapakse, who also impressed with 41 points after a back-nine countback.

Men’s Division A: The highly competitive top division saw Noordeen Sethwala crowned champion after recording 42 points, prevailing over Manjula Chandrasoma on a back-nine countback after both players finished tied on 42 points.

The championship once again highlighted the strong partnership between Nations Trust Bank and the Royal Colombo Golf Club, combining competitive golf with fellowship among customers, corporate partners and club members. The record participation of 345 golfers reflected the tournament’s continued growth and popularity, further cementing its reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s leading corporate golf events. (SJ)

Sri Lanka yesterday welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran establishing an immediate ceasefire.

‘This ceasefire represents a significant step toward de-escalation and long-term regional and global stability, including through the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and providing for a framework for the continuity of negotiations. Sri Lanka strongly supports the peaceful resolution of disputes through diplomacy and remains optimistic that this step will foster sustainable peace across the region,’ Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

‘Sri Lanka extends its sincere appreciation to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the State of Qatar for their pivotal roles as mediators, and to all partners whose support was instrumental in arriving at this successful diplomatic outcome,’ it added.

DFCC Bank has relocated its Ratnapura Branch to a new premises at No. 269, Main Street, Ratnapura, offering customers a more accessible, spacious, and convenient banking environment in the heart of the city.

The relocation reflects DFCC Bank’s continued investment in creating banking experiences that are simpler, more comfortable, and better aligned with evolving customer expectations. Strategically located within Ratnapura’s commercial centre, the new branch has been designed to improve accessibility while providing customers with a modern banking environment that supports both traditional and digital banking interactions.

The branch continues to offer the full range of DFCC Bank’s products and services, serving individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and businesses across the region. Customers also benefit from access to the Bank’s growing suite of digital banking solutions, supported by relationship-driven service and personalised financial guidance.

Vice President/Head of Branch Banking and Distribution Duminda Silva said: ‘Banking is becoming increasingly digital, but customers still value accessibility, convenience, and meaningful human interaction when making important financial decisions. The relocation of our Ratnapura Branch reflects our commitment to creating banking environments that bring these elements together. By investing in modern, customer-focused spaces, we are making it easier for customers to access the services, advice, and support they need, while continuing to strengthen our presence within the communities we serve.’

Ratnapura remains an important economic centre, supporting a diverse mix of commercial activity, entrepreneurship, and household banking needs. Through its enhanced presence in the city, DFCC Bank is well positioned to continue supporting customers with solutions that respond to their changing financial requirements.

The relocation forms part of DFCC Bank’s broader efforts to strengthen its service network and create banking experiences that combine accessibility, convenience, and customer-centric service across every stage of the customer journey.

The rupee has appreciated against the US dollar during the week ending 19 June.

According to average LKR/USD indicative rate published by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), the US dollar was quoted at Rs. 333.78 yesterday, down from Rs. 336.39 a week earlier.

Opener Avishka Fernando smashed an 87-ball century – his second in the ‘A’ Team One-day Tri-Nation Series, and 23-year-old left-arm seamer from Middeniya, Hambantota, Dulaj Samuditha took his maiden five-fer as Sri Lanka ‘A’ crushed Afghanistan ‘A’ in the final league match by a thumping 103-run margin at the Rangiri Dambulla Cricket Stadium yesterday.

The win saw Sri Lanka ‘A’ finish the league standings on top with 6 points and qualify to meet second placed India ‘A’ with 4 points in the final on Sunday at the same venue. Afghanistan ‘A’ who ended third with 2 points were knocked out of the Series.

For Afghanistan ‘A’ to have any chance of qualifying they had to reach their target of 323 in 20.3 overs. But the task proved beyond them as they folded up for 219 in 42.5 overs.

Samuditha had Afghanistan ‘A’ already on the back foot when he snapped up the first two wickets in the first over of the innings to have them reeling at 2-2. At the 20.3 over stage Afghanistan ‘A’ were nowhere close to reaching the target having lost three wickets for 107.

Opener Hassan Eisakhil (74 off 78 balls, 5 fours, 3 sixes) and Bahir Shah (35) put up the highest partnership of the innings – 75 off 65 balls, but Afghanistan ‘A’ kept on losing wickets at regular intervals to make a match of it. Farmanullah Safi slammed 43 off 39 balls (3 fours, 3 sixes) in the latter stages of the game by which time the result was more or less done and dusted.

Samuditha returning for a fresh spell cleaned up the innings to end with figures of 5/25. He was well supported by another young seamer Kugathas Mathulan who took 3/38.

In comparison to the start Afghanistan ‘A’ had, Sri Lanka ‘A’ were given a solid platform to build their total of 322-8 by Niroshan Dickwella (66 off 54 balls, 12 fours) and Avishka Fernando (110 off 97 balls, 13 fours, 1 six) who put on 133 for the first wicket off 99 balls. Nuwanidu Fernando (45 off 70 balls) helped maintain the tempo by sharing a further stand of 93 off 114 balls with Avishka.

Sri Lanka ‘A’ suffered a middle order collapse losing five wickets for 48 in 9 overs, sliding to 274-6 but managed to get beyond the 300-run mark with useful contributions from the tail. Fast bowlers Faridoon Dawoodzai (4/60) and Farmanullah Safi (3/68) caused the middle order wobble taking seven wickets between them. – [ST]

As the evergreen and debonair Rukshan Perera prepares to celebrate a special birthday, we wish him much success in the years to come. Undoubtedly, this multi-talented maestro can look back at the last seven decades and say: “I’ve had the time of my life”. And who can deny that?

And so it is that Colombo looks forward to Rukshan’s Birthday Concert at the Bishop›s College Auditorium on Sunday 21 June 2026 – and what a night that promises to be.

Although music has been an integral part of his life, there is more to Rukshan than music. He has enjoyed a successful career in IT, has traversed the world both for work and music, is a genuinely doting family man, enjoys fun/travel/adventure, and is most certainly a friend for all seasons. He is an activist, a humanitarian and a philanthropist, and strives every day to make it a better, more meaningful world.

But let’s face it – music is indeed his big love. This composer, director, recording artist, performer and multi-instrumentalist is widely recognised as an innovative artiste who continuously pushes musical boundaries – and how!

Amongst other things, Rukshan’s claim to fame is that perhaps he is the only person I know who can whistle a two-part harmony simultaneously. Furthermore, he might well be the only person in the world, allegedly, who can jazz-scat in harmony – something delightfully unique.

Rukshan›s mother, a music teacher, introduced him to his first piano lesson at the tender age of 5 years, and from that point on there was no looking back for Rukshan. Coming from a musical family, not only did he enjoy learning to play multiple instruments, but the performing stage was a big part of this musical journey, starting as a young teenager and continuing to this day.

Rukshan has performed in a dozen countries covering all continents, be it an international music festival, international jazz festival, or other concerts, dances, and special events.

Rukshan›s talent and versatility is beyond amazing. After the death of his ‘hero’ – Michael Jackson – Rukshan composed and recorded a tribute titled ‘You are the World’ and presented it to Michael’s brother Jermaine Jackson. Rukshan has also composed songs for 3 Nobel Laureates Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzi, and Dr. Muhammad Yunus, in admiration of their profound contribution to society.

To date, Rukshan has composed hundreds of songs in multiple genres – Pop, Jazz, Blues, Fusion and Acapella arrangements. He has released a CD of his English originals, 2 live DVDs from his concerts, and a music DVD describing Rotary values through songs, and another promoting moral values to young children through a national program.

What is outstanding about Rukshan is that he has always been driven by a vision to use music for a greater purpose, be it social conscience, charity, or even teaching ethics to a younger audience. And his life›s ambitions have not gone unnoticed.

Audience can look forward to a vibrant and memorable evening of music, featuring much-loved songs by the Bee Gees, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Santana, Clarence Wijewardena, and Rukshan’s finest creations of jazz, East-West collaboration, and a cappella performances. With creative arrangements, lively moments, and something for every musical taste, the concert promises to be both entertaining and uplifting. Most importantly, the event will raise funds for the RCU Loyalty Pledge scholarships, helping deserving children pursue their education. It will be an evening of music, joy, and purpose-celebrating a remarkable journey while supporting a meaningful cause.

A limited number of tickets are still available. Get yours from Bishop’s College (11 239 1265) or the Royal College Skills Centre (077 318 0365). For more information, call 077 783 7401.

Following an appeal to members and overseas chapters in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka) has transformed the generosity of its global membership into a lasting educational initiative by establishing a fully-fledged computer laboratory at Shanmuganadan Tamil Maha Vidyalaya in Monaragala.

The new facility, equipped with 15 computers, was officially inaugurated as part of CA Sri Lanka’s commitment to supporting communities in need and empowering the next generation through access to technology and digital learning opportunities.

The initiative, carried out under the theme ‘Connecting the Next Generation for a Digital Future,’ was officially unveiled on 5 June in the presence of Monaragala Zone Zonal Education Director Harshani Meegasdeniya, together with the principal, teaching staff, and students of the school. The ceremony was attended by the CA Sri Lanka President Tishan Subasinghe, Member Relations Committee Chairman Saman Sri Lal, Alternate Chairman Chamara Abeyrathne, Project Chair Theja De Silva, Chief Executive Officer Lakmali Priyangika and Members of the Council.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, CA Sri Lanka reached out to its members and overseas chapters seeking support for affected communities. The appeal received an overwhelming response, with contributions being made by overseas chapters, members, and the Institute. As part of efforts to ensure the funds delivered a meaningful and sustainable impact, CA Sri Lanka identified the need for enhanced digital learning facilities at Shanmuganadan Tamil Maha Vidyalaya and undertook the project at an investment of approximately Rs. 7 million.

The project included the refurbishment of the laboratory space, the provision of 15 computers, custom-built furniture, and full software installation, creating a modern learning environment for students in the rural community.

Expressing her sincere appreciation to CA Sri Lanka, Meegasdeniya described the initiative as one of the most significant educational development projects undertaken in the area in recent years. She noted that the project strongly supports ongoing efforts to enhance digital literacy and expand access to technology among rural students.

‘Beyond serving the students of Shanmuganadan Tamil Maha Vidyalaya, this facility will also be accessible to students of MO/Pagngnananda Maha Vidyalaya during school hours. By sharing these resources, we are expanding access to technology and creating opportunities for a wider student community to develop the digital skills essential for the future,’ she said.

Subasinghe expressed his sincere appreciation to the Institute’s members and overseas chapters for their generosity in supporting the initiative following Cyclone Ditwah.

‘We are deeply grateful to our members and overseas chapters whose generous contributions have made this project possible. What began as a response to a moment of need has been transformed into a meaningful and lasting investment in education. This computer laboratory reflects the true spirit of our profession, where collective goodwill is channelled into creating real impact for future generations,’ he said.

Road safety has become a pressing national concern in Sri Lanka, with unsafe driving practices, speeding, distracted driving, and negligence by both motorists and pedestrians contributing to rising accidents and fatalities. The gravity of the situation is evident in the numbers. Sri Lanka Police reported over 3,642 road accidents in the first two months of 2026 alone. Of which 405 were fatal, resulting in 422 deaths.

In 2025, Sri Lanka roads claimed 2,732 lives with pedestrians and motorcyclists bearing the greatest toll. Though statistics show some improvement from 2024, the rising scale of loss in the past few years continue to impose heavy economic costs, making road safety a critical national priority.

Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation General Ltd. (SLICGL), in collaboration with Ran FM, successfully conducted a nationwide road safety awareness campaign held on 18 May in Borella, as part of National Road Safety Week 2026. The program was aimed at educating drivers and pedestrians on the importance of responsible road behaviour and accident prevention.

The Borella event was part of a far wider, year-round program which SLICGL has steadily scaled throughout the island, mobilising partners, communities and road users on multiple fronts.

As Sri Lanka’s market leader in motor insurance through its flagship Motor Plus cover, SLICGL firmly believes road safety is central to its responsibility towards policyholders and the public.

Organised as a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative by SLICGL and Ran FM, the campaign emphasised road safety as a shared responsibility, requiring vigilance and respect from every individual using the roads. Participants included motorists, school children, pedestrians and public transport users and were educated on vital safety messages through interactive awareness activities, educational engagement, and a public communication program.

Drivers were reminded of the importance of obeying traffic regulations, maintaining safe speeds, avoiding mobile phone usage while driving, wearing seat belts, and practicing defensive driving. Motorists were encouraged to remain alert and respectful towards pedestrians and other road users to help minimise accidents and fatalities.

Pedestrians, meanwhile, were urged to use designated crossings, follow traffic signals, and remain attentive when navigating the roads. Special emphasis was placed on educating school children and elderly pedestrians, who represent some of the most vulnerable groups in traffic environments.

The association with Ran FM helped to amplify the campaign’s reach, spreading the road safety message to audiences throughout the country through media engagement and public communication.

The latest initiative is not a standalone effort, but part of a long-term commitment and the latest in a series of sustained efforts conducted over the years, aimed at building a culture of safer roads islandwide.

Notably, SLICGL’s ‘I Am a Safe Driver’ campaign mobilised thousands of school transport operators in every district, to promote responsible driving practices and child safety, particularly focusing on school transport safety and responsible driving practices, distributed educational materials, safety stickers, and vehicle tags to bolster daily compliance among road users.

Critically, the engagement did not end with the campaign. SLICGL maintained ongoing connections with school transport operators to reinforce safe practices over time, recognising awareness alone insufficient without continued accountability.

Combining awareness and accountability through these endeavours, SLICGL positions itself as Sri Lanka’s leading insurer and also as a proactive partner in safeguarding lives on the country’s roads.

SLICGL’s safety drives highlight the resolve to mobilise communities towards responsible road practices, cementing its position as Sri Lanka’s No.1 motor insurer, advancing national development and long-lasting social impact.

The Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) yesterday bid a heartfelt farewell to Immediate Past President Keerthi Gunawardane.

The chamber said: ‘This remembrance honors a life dedicated to the nation’s economic progress, the empowerment of local businesses, and the strengthening of regional trade. His strategic vision, unwavering support for Sri Lankan enterprises, and profound humanity will forever remain the guiding light of our chamber fraternity.

The Sri Lankan business landscape has lost one of its most ardent champions. Kalawitigodage Keerthi Sirimewan Gunawardane, the Immediate Past President of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), has passed away. As the corporate community gathers to pay its final respects at his funeral this coming Sunday, it is a fitting moment to reflect on a remarkable journey of entrepreneurial brilliance and selfless national service.

Born to lead, Gunawardane’s educational foundation was laid at Kingswood College in Kandy, St. Thomas’s College in Gurutalawa, and Central College in Welimada. He later pursued higher education, earning an Economics Special (Hons.)

degree from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. His drive for continuous learning also led him to the University of Colombo to study Hypermedia Engineering and Multimedia Technology, and to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka for a Post Graduate Diploma in Business and Financial Administration.

He began his corporate career as a Management Trainee at the Sri Lanka State Trading (General) Company, eventually serving as the Marketing Manager and Director of Marketing at Toppan Moore (Colombo) Limited. In 1991, he stepped out to chart his own entrepreneurial path by founding Graphic Systems Ltd. Under his stewardship as Chairman and Managing Director, the enterprise transformed from a small printing firm into Sri Lanka’s leading company for NCR Business forms. His pursuit of excellence earned him the National Bronze Award at the ‘Sri Lanka Entrepreneur of the Year’ in 1999 and the Provincial Merit Award for the Western Province in 2001. Recognising his lifelong dedication, the Sri Lanka Association of Printers honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.

However, his most enduring journey lies in his service to the broader business community. Taking the reins as President of the FCCISL in October 2022, he guided the Chamber through one of the most challenging economic eras in recent history.

He was deeply committed to regional collaboration, serving proudly as the SAARC contact point for Sri Lanka. He actively championed trade, investment, and innovation across SAARC nations to drive sustainable economic growth. Furthermore, his international networking efforts were instrumental in securing the hosting rights for the 39th Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) Conference in Colombo. He also spearheaded strategic engagements alongside the Export Development Board (EDB) to unlock vital export opportunities in the Japanese market for local businesses.

Gunawardane’s vision extended far beyond corporate boardrooms; he was committed to empowering the grassroots level. He advocated strongly for local startup support, frequently pushing for policies that would allow Sri Lanka to emulate thriving regional startup ecosystems.

He was also a driving force behind a workplace-based learning program in the hospitality sector. By partnering with NAITA and the ILO, he helped launch an initiative to sharpen the skills of returnee and aspirant migrant workers across districts such as Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, and Jaffna, giving them tangible pathways to local and overseas employment.

Beyond his professional accolades, Keerthi was a devoted family man, leaving behind his wife and three daughters. He was a leader who balanced his immense corporate responsibilities with deep empathy, humility, and kindness.

For those of us at the FCCISL, he was more than a president; he was a mentor, a steady pillar of strength, and a true friend. We will deeply miss his pragmatic advice, his calm demeanor during crises, and his unyielding belief in the potential of Sri Lankan enterprises. As we bid him a final farewell this Sunday, we find solace in the fact that his legacy will continue to inspire generations of entrepreneurs.