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The Pearl Protectors Hold World Ocean’s Day Exhibition at One Galle Face Mall- Unveiling the Sea Turtle Mural!

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World Oceans Day is celebrated worldwide on the 8th of June, and in Colombo,Sri Lanka,”The Pearl Protectors”, which is a youth led marine conservation organisation, with members hailing from all walks of life, exhibited beautiful paintings and art throughout the weekend from 10th to 11th June 2023, at the One Galle Face Mall; Ocean Avenue Atrium Level – 1. Through education and eye catching art,The Pearl Protectors hope to draw attention and raise awareness on the topic of conserving the ocean in Sri Lanka
For the past 3 years, The Pearl Protectors have been celebrating the beauty and wonder of the ocean through the power of art while raising awareness of the critical importance of our oceans, the role they play in maintaining a healthy planet, and the numerous threats faced by these delicate ecosystems and their inhabitants. Throughout May, participants of all ages submitted artwork for the competition themed “World Ocean Day Through Art,” divided into two categories: the Open Category and the School Category. After careful consideration by esteemed Marine Scientists and Artists, 30 exceptional illustrations were selected for display at the One Galle Face Mall.
In addition to the art exhibition, the highlight was the realistic Mega Turtle Model depicting the impact of ghost nets and plastic pollution, and a replica of a sea turtle nest. There was also an exhibit highlighting trans boundary litter and nurdle contamination from the recent X-Press Pearl shipping disaster. The Pearl Protectors also demonstrated innovative ways to upcycle and re-use marine plastics, such as recycling ghost fishing nets and using it to create unique beachwear, with some intricate pieces on display by the designer, an undergraduate at the University of Morutuwa, Thumalka Rupasinghe. This celebration of the ocean world at One Galle Face mall offered a unique opportunity for the general public to deepen their understanding of marine life and the challenges it faces.
Attendees engaged with ocean and environmental enthusiasts, advocates, and experts. Speaking to the media, Maleesha Gunawardana, the Advocacy Lead at The Pearl Protectors,said that much more needs to be done regarding public awareness of ocean conservation. She explained how amongst other things, nylon fishing nets had caused the death of sea turtles and marine creatures in the coral reefs at many locations around the island. Maleesha also stated that there is a dearth of funding, and her team are mostly responsible for financing the projects that they carry out, as it was difficult to procure sponsorship. She hopes that by creating more awareness of ocean conservation, the public and other sectors would start to seriously take action to ensure safer waters for marine life and mankind.
If you would like to join future events held on conserving nature and the sea, and for those who are interested in sea turtle conservation, a ticketed event,“Turtle Talk”, organised by The Pearl Protectors will be held at “Pink Salt” in Dehiwala on 17th Saturday June 2023 from 3pm to 5pm. Maleesha invites everyone to come and learn more on what can be done to preserve the sea turtle population in Sri Lanka.

Article by Nelum Buddhadasa

Minister Of Trade Commerce and Food Security Nalin Fernando participated to the Commonwealth

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Minister Of Trade Commerce and Food Security Nalin Fernando participated to the Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting on last 5th and 6TH June in Marlborough House, the Commonwealth Secretariate in London, UK.
Hon Minister made an intervention by delivering a statement under the topic of climate change. The Hon Minister met with Madam Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary General, Hon Nigel Huddleston MP, the UK Minister of state for international Trade, Hon Minister of Trade in Pakistan and other Senior Officials of the Commonwealth secretariate and its member countries.
Addressing the meeting minister highlighted the importance of affordable and accessible digital infrastructure focused on women, youth entrepreneurs and Small medium enterprises and welcomed the initiatives by the Common Wealth Association regarding to that.
As on the sideline to the commonwealth meetings, Hon Minister met with the key members of the Sri Lanka – UK Chamber of Commerce along with H E Saroja Sirisena, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in the UK and had an interactive discussion at the High Commission of Sri Lanka and exchanged the ideas of trade and investment promotions, efforts to maximum utilization of the Implementing projects and improving the economic situation in Sri Lanka.
H E Saroja Sirisena, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in the UK, Ms. Gilma Dahanayaka, Additional Secretary of Ministry of Trade and Acting Director General of Department of Commerce, Mr. Somasena Mahadiulwewa, Senior Commercial Officer of the High Commission of Sri Lanka in UK, were participated to the meeting.

BROWNS HOTELS & RESORTS UNVEILS “THAALA BENTOTA” – MARKING A NEW ERA IN SRI LANKAN HOSPITALITY!

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Article by Nelum Buddhadasa

Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the rebranding of Avani Bentota as Thaala Bentota, marking a new era of excellence in Sri Lankan hospitality. Thaala,which essentially means the rhythm of life, offers  guests 75 elegant rooms, including two suites and a marvellous swimming pool with beach access that truly embodies the hotel’s commitment to excellence and stands as a testament to the Browns hospitality brand in Sri Lanka. On 25th May 2023,

The rebranding represents an exciting new chapter for Thaala Bentota, one that promises to create unforgettable memories for holidaymakers while incorporating an atmosphere of eco sophistication,rhythm and luxury. Browns Hotels & Resorts, renowned for its exceptional properties, will provide the same unparalleled sense of comfort at Thaala Bentota. Situated along the scenic,coastal Hotel Road of Bentota,Thaala Bentota is brought to life through the timeless architectural design inspired by the late Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa.The familiar sands, welcoming smiles, and exceptional service remain unchanged, ensuring that guests feel right at home.

Speaking to the media, the LOLC Holdings PLC Group Managing Director/ CEO Kapila Jayawardena, stated :“This transformation signifies our commitment to continuously elevate the guest experience and redefine luxury hospitality in Sri Lanka. Thaala Bentota encapsulates our vision of harmonising rhythm and nature. This is not just a name change; it represents a new chapter in our journey to offer unique and immersive experiences that resonate with our guests.”

Browns Hotels & Resorts Group General Manager Eksath Wijerathna remarked, “Thaala Bentota stands proudly on the edge of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, offering guests a quintessential experience on this paradise island. At Thaala Bentota, our dedicated staff stands ready to create an excellent service, ensuring that every guest departs with cherished memories that will last a lifetime. We offer more than just a place to stay. We have created an environment that resonates with our vibrant culture and showcases the essence of our country. ”

Browns Hotels & Resorts, operates as the leisure arm of LOLC Group, and is one of the most successful,diversified multinational corporations in the island, and has been investing in the Sri Lankan hospitality industry since 2009. With its expansion to the Maldives and Mauritius, the LOLC Group is set to become one of the largest leisure property owners in each of these markets. With a portfolio of outstanding hotels across Sri Lanka, the resorts under Browns Hotels & Resorts are dedicated to ensuring guests’ comfort  and the relaunch of Thaala Bentota only marks another milestone in Browns Hotels & Resorts’ history!

IMF affirms support for Sri Lanka and its people – Deputy Managing Director of the IMF says while meeting the Hon. Speaker

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The Deputy Managing Director further states that many positive groundworks being carried out in order to get the economy of Sri Lanka back on the right track is commendable

Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), said today that IMF expects to provide the maximum support for Sri Lanka and its people.

Mr. Kenji Okamura conveyed this during the meeting held with Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardene, the Speaker and Members of the Committee on Parliamentary Business in Parliament today (31).

Moreover, Deputy Managing Director of IMF stated that many positive groundworks being carried out in order to get the economy of Sri Lanka back on the right track is praiseworthy.

During the discussions held, the Hon. Speaker said to the Deputy Managing Director of the IMF that he wishes to express his gratitude to all directors led by Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund on behalf of the Sri Lankan Government and its people, for giving leadership to support the island nation to overcome the difficulties faced during hard times.

Furthermore, the Hon. Speaker pointed out that in order to emerge out from the current crisis, tough decisions pertaining to economic stabilization had to be taken and necessary steps on that regard have been taken through the Parliament.
He also pointed out that many positive steps have been taken, such as the establishment of a Budget Office in Parliament, the introduction of an Anti-corruption Bill, and the introduction of the Central Bank Act paving way for a new economic vision with transparency.

Mr. Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, who visited the Parliament this afternoon, was received by State Minister Hon. Shehan Semasinghe, the Chief of Staff and Deputy Secretary General of the Parliament Mr. Tikiri K. Jayathilaka, Assistant Secretary General Mr. Hansa Abeyratne and Serjeant-at-Arms Mr. Narendra Fernando.

Following the discussion with the Hon. Speaker, Mr. Okamura visited the Parliament chamber.

He then engaged in a cordial discussion with the members of the Committee on Parliamentary Business.

Seylan Bank announces Stage 1 winners of ‘Ethera Kasi Methera Vasi Season 02’

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Seylan Bank, the Bank with a Heart, recently announced the winners of the 1st Stage of its exciting ‘Ethera Kasi Methera Vasi Season 02’ draw. Launched in a bid to increase much needed inward remittances to Sri Lanka, ‘Ethera Kasi Methera Vasi’ seeks to reward anyone who sends or receives money through Seylan Remittances with cash prizes worth Rs. 10 million.01 June 2023, Colombo:

After successfully concluding Stage 1 of the Draw, Mr.Sanjeeva Jayanath (Receiver Category) and Ms.R.W.Kusumalatha (Sender’s Category) walked away with cash prizes of Rs. 250,000/- each. Meanwhile, the secondary winners under the receivers category included Mr.M.Loshan, Mr.M.Madushanka, Mr.A.R.M Illiyas, Ms.U.K. Kamaleswari and Ms.M.M.S.Naseeha. Making up the winners under the senders category were Ms.U.A.Bandara, Mr. Tharindu Muthuthanthrige, Ms.H.T .Abeysekera, Mr.Sarath Jayaweera and Mr.Sivanathan Murugesu.

‘Ethera Kasi Methera Vasi Season 02’ will soon conclude with the much awaited Grand Draw, where one lucky winner will take home a cash prize of Rs. 1 million. Fulfilling its responsibility to the nation, Seylan Bank aptly timed the second season of this draw in line with the Sinhala and Tamil new year, maximising the remittance potential of its customer base.

Joining hands with a number of overseas agents, including worldwide remittance services exchange houses and banks, Seylan Bank offers a range of remittance services which have been exclusively designed for those living overseas to remit money to Sri Lanka. Senders from Saudi Arabia through Bank Al Bliad, Enjas Mobile App will be able to enjoy zero transaction fees when remitting with Seylan Bank, supported by a speedy service and instant credit of funds.

To find out more, please contact the nearest Seylan Bank branch or by dialling 011 200 88 88.

About Seylan Bank

Seylan Bank, the Bank with a Heart, operates with a vision to offer the ultimate banking experience to its valued customers through cutting-edge technology, innovative products, and best-in-class services. The Bank has a growing clientele of SMEs, Retail and Corporate Customers, and has over 540 access points across the country. Seylan Bank has been endorsed as a financially stable organisation with performance excellence across the board by Fitch Ratings, with the bank’s national long-term rating revised to ‘A-’(lka). These are a testament to Seylan Bank’s financial stability and its unwavering dedication to ensuring the consistent delivery of Service Excellence across all aspects.

Her Excellency Julie J. Chung Ambassador of the United States to Sri Lanka congratulates Ms. Kushani Rohanadeera on her appointment as the Secretary General of Parliament.

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Her Excellency Julie J. Chung, Ambassador of the United States to Sri Lanka met with the new Secretary General of Parliament, Ms. Kushani Rohanadeera and congratulated her on her appointment.

Her Excellency Julie J. Chung met with the Secretary General today (02) in Parliament where she extended her constant support in the work of Parliament and stated that the Parliament can always count on their assistance to further strengthen the institution.

During the cordial discussions held, Ms. Kushani Rohanadeera stated that the role of the Parliament has widened and many Committees are in operation.  The Secretary General further elaborated that work is underway to involve youth in the process of governance and that the Bills on Gender Equality & Empowerment as well as the establishment of an independent National Commission on women in collaboration with relevant stakeholders are also in motion.

Her Excellency Julie J. Chung, Ambassador of the United States to Sri Lanka stated that the appointment of Ms. Rohanadeera inspires many young women as well as men. The discussions also included possible collaborations whilst emphasizing the importance of sharing lessons from each other.

CDB Advance Green Challenge successfully transforms team mindset into sustainable visions

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Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB), one of the largest Financial Service Providers in Sri Lanka, announced the successful conclusion of the highly anticipated CDB Advance Green Challenge, an internal event hosted for CDB team members. The grand finale of this impactful event took place recently at the BMICH, in the presence of Chief Guest Dr. Ravi Fernando, Chairman / CEO of Global Strategic Corporate Sustainability Pvt Ltd, where participants showcased their knowledge and dedication to sustainability and mindfulness.02 June 2023, Colombo:

Aligned with CDB’s Sustainability Agenda, the CDB Advance Green Challenge is a flagship program, emphasising the engagement of CDB team members and the inculcation of green practices. This event served as a powerful demonstration of CDB’s commitment to Environmental Stewardship and Social Progress of its team members.

The theme of CDB Advance Green Challenge, “Engage Mindful Team Members,” emphasised the significance of individual and collective actions in building a sustainable future while instilling the right mind-set and proactive behaviour towards climate action. The program aimed to foster environmental consciousness among CDB team members, inspiring them to become agents of positive change in both their personal and professional lives.

Speaking at the finale, Charitha Warnakulasooriya, Assistant General Manager – Marketing & Sustainability, CDB said, “At CDB, we take sustainability very seriously and it is embedded in our business strategy. Accordingly, transforming our people in line with this is of equal importance. CDB Advance Green Challenge is one of the key platforms through which we expand the knowledge of team members, all while inculcating a sense of sustainable living in their lives. We have expanded this year’s edition to feature a green debate and short film competition to drive our messaging even further and I am confident that this will certainly have a lasting impact.”

The CDB Advance Green Challenge’s preliminary round started in February, during which over 400 CDB team members from branches across the island enthusiastically participated in various competitions including a Green Quiz, Green Debate and Green Short Film screening. After intense competition, four teams each comprised of knowledgeable and dedicated team members from the Green Quiz and Debate segments emerged as finalists, along with six short films.

In the highly anticipated grand finale, the teams showcased their knowledge and commitment to green sustainability through a thrilling Green Quiz. Following a series of challenging questions, Team Recovery was adjudged by Amjad Azmeer – Associate – Climate and Water: UN Global Compact Network Sri Lanka and Shiranee Yasaratne – Advisor – Biodiversity Sri Lanka, before emerging as the winner. Finishing 2nd, 3rd and 4th were Team Risk and Compliance, Team Internal Audit, and Team Finance respectively.

Meanwhile, Kaushalya Nawaratne – President: Bar Association of Sri Lanka adjudged CDB’s Team Contact Centre and CDB Team Wellawatta as the winners of the Green Debate Segment in Sinhala and Tamil languages respectively, with Team Legal and Team Trincomalee clinching second place. As a part of the honourable mentions, K. Y. Kaveesha Nethmini from Team Contact Centre and P. Kajenthika from Team Trincomalee clinched the titles of Best Sinhala and Tamil language debaters respectively. I. Gajamugan, Channel Head of Shakthi and MBC Networks contributed as the judge to the Tamil debate competition.

Parallel to the Green Quiz, the Short Film Competition attracted remarkable submissions from branches island wide. Out of the short films submitted during the initial stage, six outstanding entries were shortlisted and showcased during the event. The jury, composed of Kelum Palitha – Director – Siyatha TV, carefully evaluated the submissions and recognized CDB Team Jaffna’s short film as the winning entry, with Team Moratuwa and Team Mawathagama finishing second and third respectively.

CDB dedicates significant time and effort to sustainability initiatives, firmly believing in the power of collective action to create a greener and more prosperous future. The CDB Advance Green Challenge provided a platform to celebrate the dedication and ingenuity of its passionate team, who play a pivotal role in driving positive change within the organisation and beyond.

Free Eye Check – up Camp at Wellawatte Police Station

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RUZAIK FAROOK

Zahira College Colombo Group of 80 in collaboration with the Wellawatte Police Community Service had organized 5th Free Eye Check – up Camp which was held at the Wellawatte Police Station premises recently. A Free Eye Checkup and 300 Reading Glasses were distributed.

Officer in Charge of the Wellawatte Police Subash Khandawela appreciated the service of the Group of 80 and he requested do more projects in the future for the community.  Officer in Charge of Administration C .I. Naurunna, Group of 80 President A. L. Anver, Secretary Ayoob Cader, and members M.A.C. Kamaldeen and Fahim Massaron were also present.

COMMANDER OF THE AIR FORCE HONOURED WITH THE TITLE OF “OFFICER OF THE CISM ORDER OF MERIT” FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO MILITARY SPORTS

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The Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force and the incumbent President of the Defence Services Sports Board, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, was conferred with the distinguished honour of the “Officer” title in the Order of Merit by the Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM), also known as the International Military Sports Council. The event took place at the Ministry of Defence, with the respected presence of Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd), (29).

The CISM Order of Merit may be conferred by the Board of Directors on anyone who, by his or her actions, has demonstrated the ideals and goals of CISM. Generally, the recipient would be an individual of eminent stature in the field of physical education or sport and an individual who, by personal performance or by contribution to the development of sports in the Armed Forces, rendered exceptional service to the cause of CISM.

Throughout his illustrious career, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana has made significant contributions to the development of military sports in Sri Lanka. His leadership as the President of the Defence Services Sports Board has been instrumental in fostering and promoting sports within the defence community. Under his guidance, the 4th CISM World Military Beach Volleyball Championship was successfully organized in 2022, showcasing his untiring commitment to uplifting military sports on an international platform.

Furthermore, Air Marshal Pathirana played a pivotal role as the Vice Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the 11th CISM World Military Golf Championship in 2017, which was hosted in Sri Lanka. His invaluable contributions to the organization and execution of this event demonstrated his dedication to the spirit of CISM and further solidified his standing in the field of military sports.

His exemplary leadership and exceptional contributions have not only raised the profile of sports within the Armed Forces but have also positively impacted the broader sporting community.

Memorandum of Understanding between Australian Boarder Force and Sri Lanka Customs in the field of Mutual Assistance on Customs Matters.

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A Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) has been signed between Sri Lanka Customs and Australian Border Force on 30 May 2023 in Perth, Australia. The event took place in parallel to the Asia Pacific Conference of the World Customs Organization. The MoU was signed by Mr. P.B.S.C. Nonis Director General, Sri Lanka Customs and Australian Border Force Commissioner Mr.Michael Outram. The necessary approval to enter into the MoU was granted by the Cabinet of Ministers on 02.05.2023.
The objective of the MoU is to strengthen, promote and develop cooperation and mutual assistance on matters pertaining to Customs and to increase the mutual understanding and communication between both authorities, especially in the application of Customs laws, including those in the areas of trade facilitation, the collection of due Customs duties and taxes as well as prevention of the movement of prohibited, restricted and regulated goods.

The MoU enables the two agencies to exchange information efficiently and effectively on the movement of illicit goods and of persons known to have or suspected to have contravened Customs laws and regulations of the participants.
Moreover, the MoU also opens up opportunities for both agencies to share best practices and technical expertise on Customs matters. It is expected that the MoU will provide officials of both administrations with a great opportunity to improve capacity-building activities.

In addition, the Australian Border Force has already provided many training opportunities for the officials of Sri Lanka Customs and provided various instruments to be utilized for officials in their routine assignments.

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