AHK Sri Lanka orchestrated over 15 B2B meetings, fostering connections between the Sri Lankan delegation and potential business partners and buyers from Germany and the EU. The highlight of the delegation's itinerary was a bilateral dialogue with the prestigious German Health Alliance (GHA), which is considered as the international voice of the German health industry. During the discussion, H.E. Varuni Muthukumarana, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Germany, conveyed the current status and opportunities in the Sri Lankan medical sector to GHA Co-chairs, Ms. Caroline Ihle and Mr. Armin Smajilovic. Stressing the pivotal role of regulatory frameworks, technology, and know-how transfer, Ambassador Muthukumarana sought collaborative support from GHA to streamline regulatory processes in Sri Lanka and amplify business opportunities. In addition to these discussions, the Ambassador requested support to implement the good practices of GHA and its members to develop the Sri Lankan medical and health sector registration and regulation procedures. Ambassador Muthukumarana extended an invitation to GHA members to visit Sri Lanka on a fact-finding mission, which could include a conference to facilitate direct engagement and collaboration with both private and public sector stakeholders. Additionally, she encouraged GHA to explore the potential of Sri Lanka as a small yet high-value component manufacturing destination, showcasing the country's capabilities in contributing to the global healthcare supply chain. The multifaceted approach outlined by the Ambassador reflects a strategic vision for advancing Sri Lanka's medical and health sector with the support and expertise of GHA and its members. In response to the fruitful conversation, GHA Co-Chairs, Mr. Armin Smajilovic and Mrs. Caroline Ihle, expressed their willingness to support Sri Lankan private and public sector stakeholders with knowledge and know-how transfer. They proposed the development of a mid and long-term roadmap, including webinars, conferences, and training sessions, to ensure a sustainable strategy, while also acknowledging the potential of the fact-finding mission. In a proactive stance, Mr. Smajilovic and Mrs. Ihle requested details of any medical-related exhibitions in Sri Lanka, expressing their intent to explore such events for enhanced networking and collaboration opportunities. Additionally, they sought information on Sri Lankan public and private tenders, with the aim of sharing these details with the GHA membership, fostering greater participation and engagement in the Sri Lankan healthcare landscape. The proactive and collaborative approach outlined by the GHA Co-chairs reflects a commitment to forging meaningful partnerships and driving positive impact in the Sri Lankan medical and health sector. Moreover, while participating in the exhibition, Mr. S. Prabhu, Director of Emar Pharma and the immediate past president of the Sri Lanka Chamber of Medical Devices Industry (SLCMDI), emphasized, "I am firmly convinced that Medica presents an invaluable opportunity for industry representatives that we simply cannot overlook. It not only serves as the ideal platform to explore the latest products and technologies within the sector but also, the meetings facilitated by AHK Sri Lanka add significant value to the entire industry." Mr. Malintha Gajanayake, Head of Corporate Affairs/Export Promotion at AHK Sri Lanka, affirmed that medical and health are recognised as key sectors, and AHK Sri Lanka remains dedicated to creating a business-friendly environment for both countries. AHK Sri Lanka is part of the German Chamber Network supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). With 150 locations in 93 countries around the world, the members of the German Chamber Network (AHKs) offer their experience, connections, and services to German and companies of the respective partner countries. AHKs are located in all countries of particular importance to German companies and are closely connected to the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs) in Germany. For more information on trade fairs, please contact: Mr. Malintha Gajanayake Head of Corporate Affairs / Export Promotions Email: malintha@srilanka.ahk.de Telephone: +94 11 2314 364 Website: https://shorturl.at/hsBCI
The meeting provided a platform for open dialogue, enabling stakeholders to exchange insights and propose actionable measures for consideration. The meeting was focused on comprehensive discussions surrounding the major hurdles hindering the seamless flow of foreign direct investments. The objective was to create a conducive environment for sustained economic growth and mutual benefit. In her address, the Chief Delegate of AHK Sri Lanka, Ms. Marie Antonia von Schönburg, stated, “German businesses approach investment endeavors with a profound commitment, seeking longevity in their presence within the country. Therefore, it is imperative to maintain consistency in national policies. Abrupt changes in these policies serve as a deterrent to German investment initiatives. In light of this, our commitment is unwavering in addressing and surmounting these challenges. We are dedicated to fostering an environment that not only mitigates uncertainties but actively stimulates and attracts foreign direct investments." During the meeting, Opposition Leader Honourable Sajith Premadasa pledged his team's support for German foreign direct investments. “We are very happy to welcome with open arms the micro, small, medium, and large-scale German businesses to set up in Sri Lanka. In doing so, we will seek to reduce investment friction and ease foreign direct investment." AHK Sri Lanka is part of the German Chamber Network supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). With 150 locations in 93 countries around the world, the members of the German Chamber Network (AHKs) offer their experience, connections, and services to German and companies of the respective partner countries. AHKs are located in countries of particular importance to German companies and are closely connected to the Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs) in Germany.
The ‘CMA Excellence in Integrated Reporting Awards 2023’ marked the 9th consecutive year of recognition for this distinguished event, hosted at the Taj Samudra Hotel, Colombo. In addition to the top award, DIMO was recognized among the ‘Top Ten Integrated Annual Reports’. DIMO also won the ‘Special Award for Best Concise Annual Report’ and the ‘Special Award for Best Integrated Thinking’. Ranjith Pandithage, Chairman of DIMO, shared his thoughts on the company’s achievement, stating, “At DIMO, we believe in the power of integrated reporting as a tool for fostering trust and showcasing the holistic value we create for our stakeholders, to fuel their dreams and aspirations. This award is a recognition of our dedication to the highest standards of corporate reporting, highlighting not just our financial performance but also our environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.” DIMO’s 22/23 Annual Report, the 13th integrated report, was themed “Accelerating into the Future” and featured a range of new initiatives. Notably, it marked the debut of DIMO’s first Micro-site within its annual report, offering stakeholders an immersive and engaging digital experience. Demonstrating its commitment to sustainability, the company adhered to the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) as one of the five assurances in its 22/23 annual report, further enhancing levels of transparency. This annual report featured the integration of visual and auditory-based customer testimonials and business cases. The company segregated its traditional monetized capital report into two standalone reports, one dedicated to manufactured capital and the other for financial capital, enhancing the depth of insights offered. Additionally, the company introduced sustainability Key Performance Indicator (KPI) updates that aligned seamlessly with the company’s journey towards fulfilling the sustainability agenda for 2030, through this annual report. These highlights collectively underscore DIMO’s dedication to innovation and transparency in its reporting practices.
As a veteran mountaineer with over two decades of rock-climbing experience under her belt, Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala made history in 2016 as the first Sri Lankan to reach the peak of Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world. Supporting Local athletes to conqur international events has been part of Wurth’s commitment since its inception in 1998 in Sri Lanka. Wurth Lanka, which has been in operation for 25 years in Sri Lanka, has overcome many challenges and achieved many milestones along the way. As an organisation, Wurth Group understands that success is not a destination, but a journey that requires perseverance, passion and courage. This was one reason for Wurth Lanka to support Jayanthi in her endeavour to scale Matterhorn. Jayanthi is seen as a voice for gender equality and is an inspiration for many women and girls to keep pushing forward. Wurth Lanka sees Jayanthi as a great role model not just for the organisation, but for everyone out there who is climbing their own mountains in life. About Wurth Group Wurth Group is a global market leader in technical consumables for the automotive aftermarket, construction and maintenance industry. With over 90,000 employees across 400 companies in over 80 countries, the group is a €20 Bn company, headquartered in Germany and has been operating in Sri Lanka since 1998.
Since 2021, Aqua Dynamics has consecutively received the prestigious Great Place to Work award in Sri Lanka. After a challenging 2022 and a daunting 2023 for both global and local economic development, we manage to hold onto our values and strive to be great yet again. That is why we believe this year’s award for top 15 employers in the large manufacturing category in Sri Lanka is important to us. ''It is not only in Sri Lanka but also on the Asian continent that our presence continues to blossom, as we have been named among the top 70 employers for the third consecutive year''.
Speaking on this milestone Executive Director and Chief Human Resources Officer of DIMO Dilrukshi Kurukulasuriya said maintaining such a winning streak requires more than just good HR practices, it necessitates a strategic approach to employee satisfaction and engagement. The company's employees are the cornerstone of this achievement, and their testimonials on different aspects of the work culture reflect the vibrant work environment. Rakhita Gunasekera, Chief Operating Officer (Chemical Solutions) at DIMO, emphasized a 'Great Place to Work' as an environment that encourages people to give their best without compromising on values. Ravinesh Senaratne, Deputy General Manager – Marketing (Retail), who began his career as a Management Trainee at DIMO said, "DIMO didn't just hire me, it invested in me and entrusted me with diverse brands, products, and services from Mobility to Retail Sectors.” Viraj Gunaratne, Deputy General Manager - Automotive Parts Sales highlighted Recognition and Rewarding culture at DIMO not only motivates him and his team to achieve given targets, but also enables them to do things differently. Shehan Fernando, Head of Customer Care Mercedes-Benz Passenger Service said " Diverse perspectives foster innovation, while increased engagement drives higher productivity and ensures the quality of the workshop operations, which helps us cater to diverse customers.” Ajla Jayakody, Executive – MIS Demand & Supply Planning, expressed her enjoyment of working at DIMO as an absolute delight. She said celebrating personal and work-related milestones creates a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the DIMO tribe. Sujani Wanniarachchi, Assistant Manager - Operational Compliance said employee engagement initiatives such as DIMO Got Talent, DIMO Sports Club, and DIMO Nature Club provide opportunities for employees to develop beyond their careers. Interactive sessions like DIMO Day and the Employee Council foster a positive and inclusive work environment. Niluka Ferdinands, Secretary to the Managing Director and Group CEO, who has served DIMO for more than 13 years proves her bond towards the company. She explained the healthy work environment and that her peers’ trust motivated her to work hard. Timal Tennakoon, Deputy General Manager Medical Engineering Solutions, highlighted the training and development opportunities the company offered him from managing a clientele to handling international brands such as Carl Zeiss. DIMO’s recognized work culture also reaffirms the company’s commitment towards fuelling dreams and aspirations of its people.