Business
The role of renewable energy in Sri Lanka’s economic and environmental future
An Overview of the recent meeting between the National Environment Caucus, led by Ven. Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara Thero, and Mr. Ranjith Sepala, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA).
The National Environment Caucus, led by Ven. Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara Thero, recently handed over a report titled “Addressing the Prevailing Energy Crisis in Sri Lanka: Renewable Energy; Securing the Present and Future of Sri Lanka” to Ranjith Sepala, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority. Ven. Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara Thero also engaged in a significant discussion with Mr. Sepala, on the need for the country to fast track on the sustainability path. The primary focus of the report and the topic of the discussion was the current status and future prospects of renewable energy in Sri Lanka. This meeting underscored the importance of sustainable practices and explored strategies to enhance the country’s renewable energy capacity.
Following this discussion, Ven. Pahiyangala Thero remarked, “Examining the country’s expenditures reveals that a significant portion of our foreign reserves is spent on purchasing coal and petroleum for energy production. Sri Lanka possesses year-round potential for renewable energy, which we must harness by transitioning to solar and wind power. Many unfounded myths are circulating about the planned renewable energy projects in the Mannar region; these are entirely false. This prompted our discussion with the SLSEA, where we presented a report based on our findings.”
Ranjith Sepala commented upon receiving the report, stating, “The future energy needs of this country must be met through renewable energy sources. This is the only way to reduce energy costs for our citizens. We also discussed the currently planned renewable energy projects and the necessary steps to move forward. The planned projects in the Mannar region were also covered, and Ven. Pahiyangala Thero agreed to assist us in any way he can to get these projects underway.”
The report presented to the SLSEA, which includes scientific findings compiled by the National Environment Caucus, will be critically important for the SLSEA. These findings will provide valuable insights that will aid all stakeholders in developing a sustainable strategy for Sri Lanka’s transition to renewable energy. By leveraging this comprehensive data, the SLSEA can effectively guide policy-making and project implementation, ensuring a successful and efficient shift towards renewable energy sources for the country.
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.”