Business
Dialog Enterprise in collaboration with Rubber Research Institute introduce IoT Solution to rubber plantations
Dialog Enterprise, the corporate ICT solution arm of Dialog Axiata PLC., in collaboration with the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka & Dialog University of Moratuwa Research Laboratory, has devised an IoT-led implementation to assist local rubber plantations with their drying process of crepe rubber, keeping abreast with the latest trends in digitalization.
“The solution enables continuous real-time monitoring of temperature and humidity inside the drying chambers, ensuring that optimal conditions are maintained at all times for harnessing the best of the yield”, states Dr. Susantha Siriwardena, Acting Director – of Rubber Research Institute, one of Sri Lankas’ premier research institutions.
“This helps us to identify operational deficiencies in the drying process and take proactive measures on time rendering multiple benefits such as shortening the drying period, assuring the quality of the product being dried, reduction of firewood used, etc.” he explained further. “This IoT solution can be used as a very effective and low-cost tool to achieve higher drying efficiency in any hot air-drying system through online monitoring and supervision of the drying process, and is not just limited to rubber drying,” added Dr. Siriwardena.
Employing the latest Internet of Things (IoT) technology, the cloud-based Software-as-a-Service (Saas) solution operates on a centralized monitoring and administration platform, with customizable dashboards for displaying current status of environmental conditions. It also features graphical analysis with historical data and trend analytics for triggering instant alerts and notifications.
“A milestone in our manufacturing process”, states Mr. Manoj Udugampola, Chief Operating Officer – Rubber of Pussellawa plantations Ltd. “Optimally controlled atmospheric conditions play a pivotal role in the manufacture of high-grade crepe rubber; and this solution that we have been presented by Dialog Enterprise enables us to remotely monitor the condition of the drying towers in real-time from anywhere.”
Considered to be the purest form of rubber, crepe rubber is graded visually and is, therefore, produced under finely controlled conditions. Insufficient or prolonged drying during the final stage of the manufacturing process often causes mold growth while excessive temperatures may lead to tackiness. The rubber color, which is the prime factor in the assessment of quality in visually graded crepe rubber, is prone to discoloration due to various chemical reactions if the recommended drying temperature and humidity levels are not maintained. Therefore, to ensure that optimal conditions are maintained throughout for achieving high quality (crepe rubber 1X percentages), the connected IoT sensors can be configured for specific actions in predetermined/envisioned situations such as switching ON/OFF an exhaust fan based on temperature and humidity readings. This also ensures eco-friendly pluses such as saving on firewood.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”