Category: Daily Financial Times

Former Zimbabwe cricketer Andy Pycroft will officiate as the ICC Match Referee for the two-Test series between Sri Lanka and India which begins at Galle on Saturday.

The Elite Umpiring panel named for the series comprises Rod Tucker (ICC Elite Panel Umpire), Ahsan Raza (ICC Elite Panel Umpire), Sharfuddoula Saikat (ICC Elite Panel Umpire), Raveendra Wimalasiri (ICC International Panel Umpire) and Prageeth Rambukwella (ICC International Panel Umpire).

AB Securitas, Sri Lanka’s trusted leader in security and cash management solutions, has been awarded the Gold Award in the Security and Technical Services – Large Category at the National Business Excellence Awards (NBEA) 2026, organised by the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka.

With over 30 years of industry expertise, pioneering certifications, and a strong commitment to innovation, AB Securitas delivers integrated security and cash management solutions to many of Sri Lanka’s most trusted organisations across multiple industry sectors. Combining advanced technology, operational excellence, and a highly trained workforce, the company continues to set industry benchmarks while delivering unmatched safety, reliability, and customer confidence.

AB Securitas has consistently led the industry through its unwavering commitment to quality and excellence. It was the first Sri Lankan security company to obtain ISO certification and the first in the industry to receive the National Quality Award for Business Excellence in 2015. The company is also the only Sri Lankan security provider certified with ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety Management, reaffirming its commitment to employee wellbeing, operational excellence, and stakeholder confidence.

Further strengthening its leadership within the industry, AB Securitas has been a founding member of the Sri Lanka Security Services Providers Association (SLASSPA) since 2004 and an active member of the Industrial Security Foundation (ISF) since 2009, contributing to the advancement of professional standards within Sri Lanka’s private security sector.

The company operates through several Strategic Business Units (SBUs), including Static Security, Total Cash Management, Cash-in-Transit, ATM Management, Electronic Security, and the KNINE Sniffer Dog Force. The KNINE unit supports specialised security operations through the detection of improvised explosive substances and the deployment of professionally trained detector and guarding dogs under Detector Dogs Programmes (DDP).

The National Business Excellence Awards (NBEA), the flagship awards program of the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka, recognises organisations that demonstrate world-class standards of excellence in organisational performance, innovation, sustainability, and corporate governance while making a significant contribution to Sri Lanka’s socio-economic development. Winning the Gold Award at NBEA 2026 further strengthens AB Securitas’ reputation as Sri Lanka’s most trusted security partner, reflecting the company’s enduring commitment to delivering world-class security and cash management solutions through innovation, professionalism, operational excellence, and an uncompromising focus on customer confidence. As AB Securitas continues to set new benchmarks for the industry, this recognition stands as a testament to the trust and credibility built over three decades – and an open invitation to organisations seeking a security partner they can rely on.

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved to restore 144 more religious sites affected by Cyclone Ditwah using Rs. 232.07 million in available funds.

The move is aimed at supporting the restoration of religious sites affected by Cyclone Ditwah and enabling communities to resume religious and cultural activities at the damaged locations.

The Government noted that a total of 1,328 places of worship representing Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities have reportedly been affected by various disasters associated with Cyclone Ditwah.

The affected sites include 758 Buddhist temples, 272 Hindu religious places, 199 Muslim religious places, and 99 Christian religious places.

Renovation work has already been initiated at 256 of the affected places of worship using Rs. 929.69 million allocated through the Buddha Sasana Fund, Central Cultural Fund, and Anagarika Dharmapala Foundation. This allocation includes Rs. 329.62 million provided in accordance with Cabinet decisions made on 27 April 2026 and 15 June 2026.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi.

Janashakthi PLC (JXG) yesterday said it has entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Melstacorp PLC (MELS), the sole shareholder of Continental Insurance Lanka Ltd., (CILL), to acquire a 100% stake in CILL, subject to the approval of the Insurance Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (IRCSL).

The transaction will see JXG acquire an initial 81% controlling stake, followed by the acquisition of the balance stake on a staggered basis, with 9% to be acquired in the first year and 10% in the subsequent year for a total consideration of over Rs. 5.14 billion.

JXG said this marks a significant step in expanding its footprint in the general insurance sector and delivering on the strategic commitments outlined at its Initial Public Offering (IPO).

The transaction positions JXG to re-enter a market where it has a strong legacy, further strengthening its position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading financial conglomerates and advancing its vision of building a fully integrated financial services ecosystem.

The acquisition is expected to further strengthen JXG’s financial services platform by combining its proven expertise, strong governance, and disciplined execution with CILL’s established market presence. Leveraging technology as a key differentiator, JXG aims to accelerate innovation, enhance customer experience, and deliver broader, more integrated financial solutions across its growing portfolio.

Ranked among Sri Lanka’s leading general insurers, CILL provides JXG with a strong platform for future growth.

As of the financial year ended 31 December 2025, CILL recorded a Gross Written Premium (GWP) portfolio of Rs. 10.73 billion, an investment portfolio of Rs. 6.64 billion, and total assets of Rs. 14.2 billion. The company brings with it a diversified general insurance business, an extensive distribution network comprising 61 business locations across the country, and a workforce of more than 700 employees.

The acquisition provides JXG with a strong foundation to further scale its insurance business while creating long-term value for customers, employees, and shareholders.

In 2018, Janashakthi sold its general insurance business, in a mega deal worth Rs. 16.5 billion, to global giant Allianz. At the time, it was the biggest sale in the insurance industry and one of the biggest corporate deals.

The buy-side adviser was KPMG and the sell-side adviser was CT Smith Capital.

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved Sri Lanka to host the 2026 edition of the ‘World CIO 200 Awards and Roadshow’ and an international ‘Tech Marathon’ in September.

The four-day World CIO 200 program is expected to bring together over 400 senior executives from over 50 countries, including chief information officers, digital transformation leaders, innovators, investors and business executives.

The program will feature an international conference, leadership forums, business networking sessions, investment promotion activities, business-to-business meetings, an exhibition and an awards ceremony.

The international ‘Tech Marathon’ will be held alongside the program, with a focus on promoting innovation, youth participation, sports tourism and community engagement.

The World CIO 200 Awards and Roadshow is organised globally by GEC Media Group, while HTP Global Technologies LLC will manage and finance the Sri Lankan program at its own expense.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by Science and Technology Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena to host both programmes in Sri Lanka, citing their potential economic, tourism, investment and strategic benefits to the country.

Eric Meyer has been officially sworn in as the new US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, marking the start of his tenure as Washington’s envoy to Colombo.

Meyer took the oath of office at a ceremony held at the US Department of State in Washington, DC, the US Embassy in Sri Lanka said.

‘On behalf of the entire Embassy team, we warmly congratulate him. We look forward to working under his leadership to deepen the partnership between the US and Sri Lanka, advancing our shared interests and priorities,’ the Embassy said.

Meyer is a career Senior Foreign Service Officer with extensive experience in South and Central Asian affairs.

Prior to his appointment as Ambassador to Sri Lanka, he served as the Senior Bureau Official for the US Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.

His appointment comes as Sri Lanka and the US continue engagement on trade, investment, regional cooperation, and other areas of bilateral interest.

Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams General Manager and Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts, Colombo Hotels Senior Vice President Kamal Munasinghe in this interview shares insights to upcoming lifestyle festival ‘In Good Taste’ on 7 and 8 November from 10.30 a.m. to 8.30 p.m. at The Shoppes

Q: Could you tell us what your vision is for The Shoppes?

Our vision is for The Shoppes to be much more than a place to shop. As part of City of Dreams Sri Lanka, we see it as a place where shopping, dining, entertainment and discovery come together as a destination where there is always something to experience.

We want The Shoppes to become a place Colombo naturally gravitates towards, whether you are coming to discover a new brand, enjoy an incredible meal, meet friends, celebrate an occasion or simply experience something different. ”In Good Taste” on 7 and 8 November is one of the first expressions of that vision, opening The Shoppes to the wider Colombo community and bringing a new energy to the destination.

Q: What is ”In Good Taste” all about?

”In Good Taste” is a two-day lifestyle festival celebrating the things that bring people together. It brings together food, experiences, activities and entertainment, with something for families, food lovers, lifestyle enthusiasts and people simply looking for a great day out. At its heart, it is about having fun, connecting with others and experiencing The Shoppes differently.

There will be a Culinary Competition, a Cocktail Competition, Art , Dance, Model Search, Make over, and Music competitions with the Industry’s best involved. Chefs Koluu, Dharshan Munidasa, our very own Executive Chef Anish, Harpo, Queen of Cakes Maya Rajapakse, and The Cake Factory Co-Founder Hafsa Hussain, the Cinnamon Life Sommelier Murumbo, Artists Iromie Wijewardena and Raja Segar, Art Connoisseurs Malaka Talwatte , Suresh Dominic and Professor Jagath Weerasinghe, Songbird Soundarie David, Fashion Icons Ramanie Fernando and Brian Kerkoven, Natasha Jayasuriye of the Deanna Dance School, Sean from the Workshop Players, are just a few of the many people who are coming forward to make this event an unforgettable one, with headlines, PR and events putting together the whole event.

Q: Is ”In Good Taste” the first time that a mall in Sri Lanka is conducting a weekend festival? What makes it different?

What makes ”In Good Taste” different is the way we are turning The Shoppes into an experience rather than simply a venue. The festival encourages people to explore, participate and spend time together, creating a sense of community within the space. It reflects how we see The Shoppes evolving into a place where there is always something worth coming back for.

Q: Do you intend to make this an annual event?

Absolutely. We see ”In Good Taste” becoming a signature event for The Shoppes, with each edition bringing something new to the table. More broadly, we want to build a calendar of events and experiences throughout the year that give people different reasons to visit and make The Shoppes part of their social lives.

Q: You are having several competitions at this event and it sounds like a very ambitious undertaking. What is the rationale in having an event of this nature?

We wanted people to take part rather than simply watch. The competitions give visitors an opportunity to get involved, have some fun and connect with others. That sense of participation is important because we want people to leave ”In Good Taste” feeling that they were part of something, rather than simply having visited a mall.

Q: What is your plan to increase footfall and sales at The Shoppes?

Our focus is on creating genuine reasons for people to visit and spend time at The Shoppes. ”In Good Taste” is a good example of this, giving people something to look forward to beyond their usual shopping or dining plans. If we continue creating experiences that people enjoy and want to return to, that naturally creates stronger engagement with the Shoppes.

Q: Colombo now has several Malls, all of which carry almost the same brands. Will The Shoppes be introducing new brands to local shoppers?

Absolutely. We are actively exploring brands and concepts that are new to Sri Lanka and will add something genuinely different to Colombo’s retail landscape. However, differentiation is not only about the names within a destination; it is also about the experiences people can enjoy there. Scope Cinemas, for example, will introduce new cinema technology available exclusively at The Shoppes, offering audiences an experience they will not find elsewhere in the country. Initiatives such as ”In Good Taste” will complement this by bringing together retail, dining, entertainment and culture in engaging new ways. It is this combination of fresh concepts, exclusive experiences and thoughtful programming that will define The Shoppes.

Q: What else is available at The Shoppes apart from the retail outlets?

There is already much more to The Shoppes than retail, from dining and entertainment to events and experiences. ”In Good Taste” brings many of these elements together in one weekend, giving people a chance to explore the space, spend time with friends and family and discover something new. Our aim is for different people to have different reasons to come here.

Q: What are the USPs of The Shoppes?

We believe the biggest difference is the breadth of what people can experience in one place. The Shoppes brings together shopping, dining, entertainment and experiences, while creating a space that is open and welcoming to a wide range of people. ”In Good Taste” is a great example of that, bringing the wider community into the heart of The Shoppes.

Q: The Shoppes are perceived to be Sri Lanka’s premier and most upmarket Mall – how do you intend to maintain that perception and the required hype going forward?

For us, maintaining The Shoppes’ position as Sri Lanka’s premier lifestyle destination is about consistently delivering exceptional standards while giving people something new to anticipate. We have already demonstrated this through landmark experiences serving as the premiere event partner for Spider-Man Brand New Day and staging one of Colombo’s most talked-about drone shows. These were not simply promotional events; they reflected our ambition to create memorable moments that capture the city’s imagination.

Going forward, we will continue to combine a carefully curated retail and dining mix with distinctive entertainment, cultural programming and events. ”In Good Taste” is the next expression of that approach. Ultimately, our reputation will be sustained not by hype alone, but by consistently creating experiences that feel fresh, relevant and worthy of The Shoppes.

FINEX Tissues, owned by Global Consumer Products Ltd., marked its third consecutive appearance at Hotel Show Colombo 2026 by introducing a genuine first to the local market: the FINEX Facial Tissue Canister Holder.

The brand unveiled what it describes as Sri Lanka’s first locally introduced facial tissue canister, designed to provide a convenient tissue solution for a wide range of settings, including homes, offices, vehicles, hotels, and other commercial spaces.

The launch was the standout moment of a strong three days for the company at BMICH, where the 18th edition of the show ran from 24 to 26 July and drew over 200 exhibitors and thousands of hospitality professionals, hotel owners and purchasing managers from Sri Lanka and abroad.

Visitors to the FINEX stand were drawn to the canister’s design and practicality, with many asking how it could be adapted for use in hotel rooms, restaurants, offices and vehicles. That curiosity translated into results. FINEX Tissues logged more than 150 customer inquiries over the three days, a volume the company says points to real commercial opportunity rather than passing interest.

Global Consumer Products Managing Director Mr. I. L. Dawood said the response confirmed the strategy behind the launch. ‘We didn’t want to bring another version of what already exists in the market. We wanted to give hospitality buyers and our end consumers something genuinely new, and the number of conversations we had over three days told us that’s exactly what they were looking for.’

The canister shared the stand with FINEX’s wider hygiene range, including its FINEX, ECO, Guardian and Flexee lines, all built around the company’s focus on quality, sustainability and practical design for hospitality settings. Hotel Show Colombo has grown into the country’s leading trade exhibition for the sector, and FINEX’s return for a third year reflects the platform’s importance for reaching buyers directly.

For a company that has spent three years building relationships at the show, this year marked a shift from participation to product leadership. Introducing a category first, rather than another iteration of an existing line, gives FINEX a stronger claim on hospitality buyers looking for something they haven’t seen from local suppliers before.

FINEX Tissues thanked everyone who visited its booth and engaged with the team, and said the response at this year’s show strengthens its commitment to developing innovative and sustainable hygiene solutions for Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry.

Global Consumer Products is a multifaceted company specialising in the manufacturing, marketing and distribution of innovative, hygienic and eco-friendly products under leading brands including FINEX, ECO SACK, Guardian and Flexee. The company serves both commercial and domestic markets and also operates as a bespoke contract manufacturer.

With a workforce of over 150 employees and a client base exceeding 1,000 customers, GCP serves a diverse clientele across corporate, retail and household sectors, and continues to stand as a benchmark of quality and innovation in the industry.

Sri Lanka’s quest to regain the Asian netball crown reaches a crucial stage today when they meet arch-rivals Singapore in the semi-final of the 14th Asian Netball Championship, currently underway in Hong Kong.

The semi-final represents much more than another match for Sri Lanka. It is an opportunity to erase the disappointment of their earlier defeat to Singapore and move one step closer to reclaiming the Asian title.

During the group stage, Singapore defeated Sri Lanka 67-51, giving the defending champions a psychological advantage heading into today’s encounter. For the Sri Lankan players, that defeat could create an unwanted mental barrier. However, they must approach the semi-final as a completely new contest and demonstrate the confidence and determination required to reach the final.

Sri Lanka’s campaign has shown considerable improvement as the tournament progressed. They began with a 57-57 draw against hosts Hong Kong before losing to Singapore. However, the team responded strongly, defeating Malaysia and India before producing a commanding performance against Maldives to complete the group stage with renewed confidence.

Their improvement is particularly encouraging because the victories demonstrated different aspects of Sri Lanka’s game. Against Malaysia, they showed resilience and composure in a competitive encounter, while their 100-34 victory over India demonstrated their attacking strength. The 78-33 victory over Maldives further underlined their ability to maintain intensity throughout four quarters.

Singapore, however, will provide an entirely different challenge.

The Singaporeans have demonstrated excellent organisation, discipline and composure throughout the championship. Their biggest strength is their ability to control the tempo of a match. They are patient in possession, move the ball intelligently and rarely panic when opponents increase the pressure.

Their defensive structure will also be a major concern for Sri Lanka. Singapore are capable of putting pressure on the ball carrier while restricting passing options around the shooting circle. Sri Lanka’s attackers will therefore need to move continuously and create space rather than depending solely on individual brilliance.

The Sri Lankan defence will have an equally important role. Singapore’s attacking players are capable of converting opportunities efficiently, and allowing them repeated possession could prove costly. Sri Lanka must therefore fight for every rebound, intercept passes and force Singapore into difficult shooting positions.

The opening quarter could ultimately determine the psychological direction of the match. If Singapore establish an early advantage, memories of the group-stage defeat could return to the Sri Lankan players. But if Sri Lanka start aggressively and remain within touching distance throughout the opening period, the pressure could shift towards Singapore.

Sri Lanka must also improve their concentration during crucial periods. Against a team as disciplined as Singapore, a short lapse can quickly turn into a significant deficit. Accurate passing, controlled movement and intelligent decision-making will be essential.

Most importantly, the Sri Lankan players must believe that the earlier defeat does not define them.

They have already demonstrated their ability to recover from setbacks during this championship. Their three successive victories after the Singapore defeat have provided the confidence necessary for another battle against the defending champions.

Today’s semi-final is therefore likely to be decided as much by psychology as by technical ability.

Singapore have the advantage of having beaten Sri Lanka previously in the tournament, but Sri Lanka have the opportunity to learn from that defeat. They know where Singapore can hurt them, and they now have the chance to respond.

The winner will advance to the final, where either Malaysia or Hong Kong will await. That match will decide the queens of Asian netball.

For Sri Lanka, the message is clear: the past must be left behind. The players must step onto the court believing that they belong in the final.

One defeat should not define the champions. Today, Sri Lanka have 60 minutes to rewrite the story.

SVL Superpack Ltd., a Sri Lankan tea and spice exporting company, has launched ‘TEYARA’, a premium tea brand that aims to showcase the finest Ceylon tea through thoughtfully crafted blends, elegant packaging, and a modern tea experience.

Developed to celebrate Sri Lanka’s rich tea heritage while meeting the evolving preferences of today’s consumers, TEYARA offers a curated collection of premium Ceylon teas, flavoured teas, and herbal infusions made using carefully selected ingredients and packed in Sri Lanka.

Following extensive market research, TEYARA’s signature Ceylon Black Tea has been carefully crafted to deliver a distinctive tea taste with a bold, rich colour that reflects the preferences of today’s tea consumers. The brand’s herbal infusions have also been thoughtfully blended to provide balanced flavours that appeal to a wide range of taste preferences while delivering an enjoyable tea experience.

The launch collection comprises three distinct ranges:

Signature Collection – Premium Ceylon Black Tea in tea bag and loose tea formats.

Flavoured Collection – Earl Grey Elegance, Ruby Berry, Lemon Mint Breeze, and Lemon Zest.

Wellness Collection – Digest Ease, Immunity Boost, Morning Bliss, and Dream Bloom.

Speaking at the launch, SVL Superpack Ltd., Founder and Managing Director Vithyasaran Suresh said:

‘TEYARA represents our vision of bringing Sri Lankan tea to consumers through a brand that reflects quality, authenticity, and elegance. We are proud to introduce a collection that honours our country’s tea heritage while creating a premium experience for modern tea lovers.’

In addition to its retail collection, TEYARA offers premium gifting solutions for corporate clients, hotels, restaurants, and festive occasions. The complete range is now available for purchase through the brand’s official website, www.teyaratea.com.

As part of its growth strategy, the company plans to expand TEYARA’s presence across supermarkets, specialty retailers, cafés, hotels, and selected international markets, while continuing to introduce new blends and innovative gifting solutions.