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The ‘It’s About Time’ Travelling History Museum in Colombo between 19-23 August 2025

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           The ‘It’s About Time’ Travelling History Museum opened its doors to the public at the Colombo Public Library on 19th August 2025. Since its inception in February 2019, the museum has visited 11 towns across 10 districts and 7 provinces, including Jaffna, Kandy, Kurunegala, Badulla, Batticaloa, Mannar, and Galle. Drawing on feedback from more than 52,000 visitors, it has been reconceptualised for a renewed visitor experience. The updated iteration will be open to the public for the first time in Colombo from 19 to 23 August, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

“It’s About Time” aims to deepen understanding of Sri Lanka’s post-independence history by encouraging reflection and dialogue. Rather than focusing on a traditional history-book approach, the museum uses interactive and multimedia exhibits to engage visitors with the stories of everyday people. It offers a space to explore multiple historical perspectives, reconnect with a shared heritage, and consider how citizens can shape the future of Sri Lanka.

The era from the 1940s to the 2000s are depicted in a manner that allows visitors to understand the history of Sri Lanka and the important events that shaped society to what it is today, starting from the Swabasha movement to the economic crisis of 2022.

The official opening of the museum brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, media, and the diplomatic community. Distinguished guests included Hon. Muneer Mulaffer, Deputy Minister of National Integration; H.E. Carmen Moreno, Ambassador of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives; Ms. Sarah Hasselbarth, Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy to Sri Lanka and the Maldives; and Vraîe Cally Balthazaar, Mayor of Colombo.

“This travelling museum connects us to the real stories and lived experiences of Sri Lankans, giving us a chance to understand different perspectives. It offers a meaningful space to reflect on how we can build a shared future together,” highlighted the H.E. Carmen Moreno.

Emphasising the European Union’s and Germany’s shared commitment to promoting innovative approaches in Sri Lanka for social cohesion, Ms. Sarah Hasselbarth noted that “this museum invites visitors to engage – through interactive exhibits, asking questions, and reflecting on different perspectives. It opens a space where people can challenge their own assumptions and learn about the experiences of others. In doing so, it transforms history from something distant and static into something living, relevant, and shared.”

The new iteration of the ‘It’s About Time’ Traveling History Museum is implemented by the Collective for Historical Dialogue & Memory (CHDM); previous museums were implemented in collaboration with Search for Common Ground (SFCG). The museum is supported by the Strengthening Social Cohesion and Peace in Sri Lanka (SCOPE) program, which is co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office and is implemented by GIZ in partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka.

BY NELUM BUDDHADASA

Asia Securities Launches ‘Athena’ – A Pioneering Platform for CSE’s Online Investors

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Innovative offering, the first to fully integrate the global trading solution TradingView in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s leading stockbroker, Asia Securities, has launched ‘Athena’, the country’s first and only equity trading platform fully integrated with TradingView, an online trading and analytics platform and social network used by over 100 million investors across 200 countries.

Athena combines advanced charting, customizable analytics, and real-time execution within a sleek, intuitive interface, reinforced by Asia Securities’ award-winning research and market insights. It marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s capital markets journey, offering investors unprecedented control, agility, and access to global-standard tools on a single platform.  

Speaking at the launch, Asia Securities Chairman, Dumith Fernando, highlighted the vision behind the development of the platform. 

“Asia Securities is pleased to be the first to introduce such a sophisticated trading platform to Sri Lanka. Athena was designed to deliver both insight and innovation, two of our core values, to our clients. This platform empowers our growing base of online investors, supports the digitalization of Sri Lanka’s capital market, and aligns it with global standards. Local investors have played an incredible role in creating a vibrant stock market over the last five years. We have always valued the role of the local investor, and we want to support them with even more useful tools in their capital market journey. We are dedicated to advancing Sri Lanka’s capital markets by investing in the highest standards of service, integrity, and innovation for clients. Athena does exactly that,” he said. 

Independent traders previously had to rely on fragmented tools to conduct analyses and trade online. Athena eliminates that complexity by offering mobile and web trading, advanced order placement, custom watchlists, real-time portfolio monitoring, market depth views, and personalized alerts, all in one place. With this platform, Asia Securities once again sets the benchmark as Sri Lanka’s most forward-thinking investment firm, advancing its mission to modernize the country’s capital markets and raise investor expectations. 

The launch crowns a year of milestones for Asia Securities. The firm emerged as Sri Lanka’s No. 1 stockbroker by turnover market share on the Colombo Stock Exchange, continuing similar achievements in the last few years. It was also named ‘Best Stockbroker – Sri Lanka’ for the sixth time at the FinanceAsia Awards 2025 and saw its research team recognized as ‘Best Stockbroking Research Team’ at the CFA Society Capital Market Awards 2025. These achievements coincide with the firm’s 35th anniversary, underscoring its enduring leadership in the industry. 

Captions: Asia Securities Chairman Dumith Fernando addressing the launch event of the ‘Athena’ trading platform on Tuesday (26).

Dumith Fernando – Chairman, Asia Securities, Shiyam Subaulla – CEO, Asia Securities Equities, Udith Wickramasinghe – Head of Sales, Asia Securities Equities at the launch event of the ‘Athena’ trading platform on Tuesday.

KDU Inter-Faculty Drama Competition 2025 – Grand Finale

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The Grand Finale of the KDU Inter-Faculty Drama Competition 2025 was held on 13th August 2025 at the FGS Auditorium under the theme “Breaking Barriers: Voices for Gender Equality.” The event was graced by Vice Chancellor Rear Admiral Dammika Kumara as the Chief Guest, with Prof. Saumya Liyanage and renowned actress Ms. Umali Thilakarathna as Guests of Honour.
The competition, organized by the Faculty of Management, Social Sciences and Humanities (FMSH) and the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) in collaboration with the English Literary Club (ELC), showcased the creativity of students across faculties.
17 scripts were initially submitted from 10 faculties, with four dramas advancing to the Grand Finale; Dewiyange Padama (FAHS), Villanku (Tamil Drama, FOL), Theenduwa (FOL), and Gehenu Pirimi (FOL). A special workshop was earlier conducted by veteran actress Kaushalya Fernando and actor Nilanka Sepala Dahanayaka, while Mr. Uvindu Abeysuriya mentored the finalists.
Results & Awards
🥇 Winner – Theenduwa (FOL)
🥈 1st Runner-up – Villanku (FOL)
🥉 2nd Runner-up – Dewiyange Padama (FAHS)
3rd Runner-up – Gehenu Pirimi (FOL)
⭐ Most Popular Drama – Dewiyange Padama (FAHS)
📜 Best Script Award – Aduren Upan Alokaya by SPDHS Senadheera (FOT)
Individual Awards:
Best Actor – Kaveen Jauasundara (Theenduwa, FOL)
Best Actress – S.B.P. Wijesooriya (Dewiyange Padama, FAHS)
Best Supporting Actor – Steve Gomesz (Theenduwa, FOL)
Best Supporting Actress – Dahami Satharasinghe (Villanku, FOL)
Merit Awards: Punsara Ariyasinghe (Ominigender), D.S.S. Herath (Dewiyange Padama), A.M.F. Shifa (Villanku), Tamashi Singhabah (Theenduwa), Avindya Thalakotunna (Gehenu Pirimi), and Best Musical Performance (Gehenu Pirimi).
The judging panel included Mr. Asanka Gurusinghe, Mr. Lakshan Waththuhewa, Ms. Taniya Weerarathna, Mr. Uvindu Abeysuriya, and Ms. Lakmini Nayanashanthi.
Certificates, merit awards, and individual awards were presented by Lt Col K.P. Rohan Kumara and Ms. Umali Thilakarathna, while the winners’ awards were presented by the Vice Chancellor and the Guests of Honour, The evening featured a welcome dance by the KDU Dancing Circle and musical performances by the Beige Band Team, keeping the audience engaged. The overall competition was coordinated by Ms. Manuri Pabasari Waleboda, Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences, FMSH, under the guidance of Dr. Nirosha Wedasinghe, Director of CGEE.

World Friendship Festival 2025 in Narita Celebrates Sri Lankan and Thai Cultures

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August 16, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture – The vibrant multicultural spirit of Narita came alive today as the World Friendship Festival 2025 opened with a colorful ceremony at the bus rotary in front of “Soyora” in Narita New Town.

What makes this year’s festival especially significant is that it has been organized by the Japanese community to celebrate the rich cultures of Sri Lanka and Thailand, reflecting the growing bonds of friendship among the people of Narita, many of whom trace their roots to these countries.

The opening ceremony featured the playing of the national anthems of Japan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, followed by warm greetings from dignitaries including the Mayor of Narita, Hon. Issei Koizumi, the Chairperson of Narita City Council, Mr. Hiroshi Araki, members of the House of Representatives, and distinguished representatives from the local community. The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Japan also delivered remarks, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral ties.

Adding to the excitement, the opening performance showcased a traditional Sri Lankan fire dance, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. A commemorative photo session with all related participants marked the spirit of unity that defines the event.

The festival, which runs from August 16–17, 2025, offers visitors an opportunity to experience authentic cultural performances, traditional cuisine, and art from both Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Speaking to Narita Cable TV, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Japan praised the initiative of the Japanese organizers, stating that the festival is a wonderful example of people-to-people friendship. He also expressed his warm impressions of Narita City’s hospitality and commitment to cultural harmony.

The Sri Lankan Embassy in Japan has also extended its full support to the festival, further underlining the strong partnership between the two countries and their shared values of friendship, diversity, and cultural celebration.

The World Friendship Festival 2025 is expected to attract large crowds over the weekend, creating a joyful atmosphere where the communities of Japan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand come together in unity and celebration.

The new IGP takes office today.

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Priyantha Weerasooriya (Attorney-at-Law) has assumed duties as the 37th Inspector General of Police of Sri Lanka a short while ago at Police Headquarters, Colombo 02.

While addressing the gathering, the newly appointed IGP said he is familiar with the concept of the Eight Worldly Winds and emphasized his commitment to upholding the honor and dignity of the police in the course of his duties.

IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya expressed his dedication to making the vision of the police a reality and stated that he expects all police officers to perform at a high standard in pursuit of this mission.

He also noted that his sole intention is to establish a disciplined police force, which he holds in the highest regard, and added that he would like to express his gratitude to all those who appointed him to the position of IGP.

WiLAT Sri Lanka Launches “WiLAT WALK 25” to Celebrate National Logistics Day and Industry Resilience

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Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) Sri Lanka, the Women’s Forum of The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), is proud to announce the launch of WiLAT WALK 25’, a landmark community walk celebrating the resilience, innovation, and collective strength of professionals in the logistics and supply chain industry. The event will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Viharamahadevi Park – Green Path, Colombo, beginning at 7:15 AM.

WiLAT Sri Lanka, one of the five pioneering chapters of WiLAT Global, was established on 21st March 2013 to empower and support women in the logistics, transport, and supply chain sectors. Since the global launch of WiLAT in June 2013, the network has spanned over 40 countries, with a shared mission of promoting gender equity, professional development, and industry advocacy. This year’s walk marks a significant milestone in commemorating National Logistics Day. It will shine a spotlight on the immense contributions of logisticians, both women and men, who have helped sustain business continuity and agility through challenging times.

“WiLAT WALK 25’ is more than a walk it is a celebration of unity, progress, and purpose,” said the project chair of the  WiLAT WALK 25’, Nisansala Liyanapthirana, “It brings together professionals, students, and supporters to honor the ongoing achievements of the logistics and supply chain sector and to reaffirm our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation.”

The walk is designed not only to highlight the evolving role of women in traditionally male-dominated fields but also to serve as a platform for industry-wide engagement, advocacy, and awareness. Participants will be treated to a morning of inspiration, networking, and celebration. Included with the LKR 2,000 registration fee are a specially designed T-shirt and cap, snacks, an e-certificate, and a memorable take-home gift. Participants can also look forward to fun activities such as Zumba, games, and more, making it an engaging experience for all ages and backgrounds.

Whether you’re a seasoned logistics professional, an aspiring student, or an advocate for inclusive growth in supply chain management, WiLAT WALK 25’ offers a meaningful way to connect and contribute to a growing movement that values advocacy, empowerment, and community.

For more information, registration contact them via email at [email protected], or follow them on @WiLATSriLankafor updates.

“Mr. Tilak Gunewardena, Director / GCFO of MAC Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, elected as President of the Sri Lanka–USA Business Council for 2025/26.”

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It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today as the newly elected President of the Sri Lanka–USA Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. I accept this responsibility with deep gratitude and genuine enthusiasm.
Let me begin by extending my heartfelt thanks to our members for the trust and confidence you have placed in me. I would also like to express sincere appreciation to our Immediate Past President for his outstanding leadership over the past two years. Under his guidance, the Council has made significant progress tackling key trade challenges, hosting impactful dialogues, and strengthening our partnerships with the U.S. Embassy, USAID, and other key institutions.
We are especially grateful for the unwavering support of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo and the broader U.S. government, whose assistance during Sri Lanka’s recent economic challenges has been both timely and transformative. Your partnership has been invaluable, and we look forward to deepening our collaboration in the years ahead.
As I step into this role, I do so with great respect for the legacy that has been built and a strong commitment to advancing it. The relationship between Sri Lanka and the United States is one of enduring friendship, shared opportunity, and mutual benefit. I am excited to help deepen this partnership in meaningful and strategic ways.
Looking ahead, one issue that demands our immediate attention is the proposed introduction of new tariffs on Sri Lankan exports to the United States. These measures, part of a broader global trade recalibration, are expected to take effect on August 1st, pending the outcome of ongoing discussions.
While this presents a challenge, it also highlights the importance of proactive dialogue and strategic engagement. Sri Lanka is navigating a period of significant economic transformation, following the IMF’s bailout package in 2023 and a series of bold reforms. Our progress is steady, and our resilience is strong.
Encouragingly, negotiations between the Sri Lankan government and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) are ongoing and showing promising signs. We remain hopeful for a resolution that supports Sri Lanka’s recovery, protects key industries, and reinforces the spirit of partnership that defines our bilateral relationship.
To guide our efforts in the coming year, I will focus broadly on three strategic pillars that align with our mission and the evolving global landscape:

  1. Facilitating Trade & Expanding Market Access
    We will empower our members to access the U.S. market more effectively by creating targeted platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, trade facilitation, compliance, and business matchmaking.
  2. Fostering Innovation in Emerging Sectors
    We aim to engage with high-potential industries such as IT and the digital economy, maritime, health technology, education, and renewable energy.
  3. Strengthening Institutional Partnerships
    We will deepen our collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Colombo, the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, DFC, EDB, BOI, and other relevant bodies to support policy advocacy and implement impactful joint initiatives.
    Throughout all our initiatives, we remain committed to capacity-building and member empowerment. I believe this Council can serve not only as a bridge between businesses but also as a catalyst for deeper bilateral cooperation between our two nations.
    I look forward to working closely with each of you, our members, institutional partners, and the Secretariat team of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce to elevate the Council to new heights.
    I also wish to acknowledge the dedicated team at the Ceylon Chamber Secretariat for continued support.
    I would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the generous sponsors who made this evening and our ongoing activities possible.

Before I conclude, I would also like to take a moment to recognize Her Excellency Ambassador Julie J. Chung. As this may be the final AGM she attends during her tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, we offer our deepest appreciation for her unwavering support, her commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, and her genuine engagement with the Sri Lankan business community. On behalf of the Council, we wish her continued success and fulfillment in all her future endeavors.

Pulsar N160 dominates sports motorcycle segment in Sri Lanka

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The Bajaj Pulsar N160, marketed and distributed by David Pieris Motor Company (Private) Limited, is now dominating Sri Lankan roads with two models the Pulsar N160 Premium and Pulsar N160 Normal available at all DPMC showrooms and over 220 dealers islandwide.

This motorcycle offers best-in-class performance and breakthrough features, backed by the assurance of DPMC’s unmatched after-sales service across the country, cementing its position as the premium choice in Sri Lanka’s motorcycle landscape.

Commenting on the Pulsar N160, Mr. Lakmal de Silva, Chief Officer – Vehicle Sales, David Pieris Motor Company (Lanka) Limited, said: “We are proud that Pulsar has earned the trust of young motorcycle riders in Sri Lanka, making it the No. 1 sports bike in the country. As a company that understands the lifestyle aspirations of our customers, we remain committed to bringing best-in-class Pulsar models such as the N160  to the local market. We are also committed to continuously improving the technology and features, just as we have done over the past 20 years.

The Pulsar N160 is a game-changer in its class, featuring a technologically refined engine that delivers exhilarating acceleration and everyday rideability. With ‘torque on demand’, it offers 85% of peak power over a broader rev range  more than any other motorcycle in its category. Riders will enjoy smooth, responsive performance whether navigating city streets or cruising on the open road.

Adding to rider safety and convenience, the Pulsar N160 introduces Dual Channel ABS — for the first time in the 160cc segment in Sri Lanka. This system intelligently modulates brake pressure to prevent wheel lock, ensuring confident braking on all surfaces. Wider front and rear disc brakes deliver sharp, responsive stopping power.

For night riding, the bi-functional LED projector headlamp, flanked by signature naked-wolf LED DRLs, offers outstanding illumination with a precise beam that cuts through the dark with clarity and style.

Aesthetically, the N160 stands out with a bold dual-tone design that fades from dark at the front to light at the rear, highlighting its sleek, aerodynamic lines. The bike is available in four striking colour options: Pearl Metallic White, Racing Red, Polar Sky Blue, and Brooklyn Black, offering riders a chance to match their machine to their personality.

The sporty underbelly exhaust, positioned at the motorcycle’s centre of gravity, enhances balance and agility. It is also equipped with best-in-class telescopic and USD front forks, ensuring superior suspension and control, making every ride comfortable and confident.

Engineered to thrill and built to lead, Pulsar continues to define the spirit of performance biking. With over 500,000 units sold locally, Pulsar’s explosive growth in Sri Lanka reflects its unmatched performance, bold design, and cutting-edge tech

Caption –(01) –  Pulsar N160 White,(02) –  Pulsar N160 Red,(03) –  Pulsar N160 Blue,(04)-  Pulsar N160 Black

Ways of Knowing: New Exhibition Opening at the Geoffrey Bawa Space

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Opening at the Bawa Space gallery on Horton Place in early August, Ways of Knowing uses Geoffrey Bawa’s garden, Lunuganga, to explore different forms of knowledge and the ways we learn, store, and share information. Looking across seven installations—including virtual reality, film, textiles, oral traditions, maps, seeds, and the human body—the exhibition explores at how intelligence and understanding are gained through different mediums.  Designed as a multi-sensory experience, Ways of Knowing emphasises forms of perception in addition to sight, and reflects on the many ways we come to understand the world around us.

The exhibition features objects from the Geoffrey Bawa Collection, along with works by three guest artists: award-winning filmmaker, architect, and academic, Clara Kraft Isono; renowned artist, writer, and textile designer, Barbara Sansoni; and acclaimed Sri Lankan filmmaker and actor, Ruvin de Silva. Speaking to Newsasia, Clara reflected that the shooting at Lunuganga began in January 2025 with only a team of  5 to 6 people working on the innovative project,from the UK. She stated that it was a only a matter of weeks before the exhibition was put together from the 3D scans of the property.

Ways of Knowing asks the visitor to consider the knowledge gathered or gained through the varied mediums of each installation. Isono’s virtual reality installation, Garden as a Cloud,  uses a three-dimensional scan of Lunuganga to present an immersive walk-through of the garden, encouraging the viewer to question how we capture something that is constantly changing. The Geoffrey Bawa Trust is grateful to the British Council for their support in helping to exhibit Isono’s work.

“I am delighted to see the fruition of the creative collaboration between the Geoffrey Bawa Trust, Sri Lanka and Kraft Isono Films, UK, in producing an immersive virtual reality experience and exhibition of Geoffrey Bawa’s iconic garden ‘Lunuganga’ in Bentota, for a wider audience to appreciate and learn about the cultural and natural heritage of this site,” says Orlando Edwards, British Council Country Director for Sri Lanka.

Sansoni’s Araliya and Skyreddha’ shows how the artist uses the geometric language of a loom to describe how she sees the landscape, encouraging the visitor to question how we view our own surroundings.  In his film about Lunuganga’s gardeners, de Silva examines the role of memory and the enduring relationship between humans and land.

“We have always been proud of our support for innovative arts and culture projects through our grants. This is a great example of a successful UK-Sri Lanka partnership demonstrating excellence in the arts. I hope the exhibition reaches many people, including students, in the coming months,” adds Edwards.

The Geoffrey Bawa Trust aims to make Ways of Knowing accessible to a broad and diverse audience. The Bawa Space offers step-free access to the exhibition space, as well as wheelchair accessible facilities. There is a designated quiet space upon request, an outdoor sensory area, and a room for craft and coloring. The exhibition will also feature an audio guide and tactile elements to enhance the sensory experience of the installations.  

Ways of Knowing will be on view at The Bawa Space from 2 August 2025–28 February 2026. Located on Horton Place in Colombo 07, the Bawa Space includes a gallery space and design store, as well as the archives, reference library, and staff offices.  Geoffrey Bawa left the entirety of his estate to The Geoffrey Bawa and Lunuganga Trusts upon his passing. The Trusts have sole responsibility for the architect’s Collection, and regularly host exhibitions and programming for design and architecture enthusiasts and students. Ways of Knowing is supported by the British Council, as well as Kohler India, Initiating Partner for the Geoffrey Bawa Trust’s Exhibition Programme.

BY NELUM BUDDHADASA

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From Projects to People: Hayleys Fentons recognised as a Great Place to Work
Hayleys Fentons Limited has achieved a proud milestone, being recognised for the first time as one of Sri Lanka’s Best Workplaces by Great Place To Work. This recognition underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a people-first culture, one that is anchored in trust, collaboration, and continuous learning.
As Sri Lanka’s No.1 Solar EPC and MEP contractor, Hayleys Fentons brings over a century of engineering excellence. The company also proudly holds the distinction of managing the largest engineering workforce in the country, with one in every five new recruits being an engineer, which is a testament to its scale, capabilities, and industry leadership.
“At Hayleys Fentons, we believe our people are the cornerstone of our enduring success,” said Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director, Hayleys Fentons Limited. “Being certified as a Great Place to Work is a reflection of the passion, unity, and resilience of Sri Lanka’s largest engineering team. We have built a culture of respect and purpose, where every individual is empowered and inspired to grow together.”
The company’s people-centric strategy is deeply embedded in its organisational blueprint, known as SPIDER, with ‘D’ representing Developing Talent. As a service-oriented business, Hayleys Fentons places its employees at the heart of everything it does, offering diverse opportunities to grow, nourish, reskill, and upskill in a rapidly evolving engineering landscape.
“In an engineering environment, gathering authentic employee feedback can be challenging due to the technical nature of roles and project-based workflows,” noted Lalani Weeraarachchi, General Manager – Human Resources, Hayleys Fentons Limited. “However, with strong leadership support and a consistent focus on employee engagement, we were able to uncover valuable insights that will help us elevate the workplace experience further, positioning us as an employer of choice in a highly competitive sector.”
To learn more about Hayleys Fentons, please visit www.hayleysfentons.com or contact 0112 102 102.

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Hasitha Premathilake – Managing Director, Hayleys Fentons Limited And Lalani Weeraarachchi- General Manager, Human Resources, Hayleys Fentons Limited