October, 23, 2023
‘ComBank Digital’ – Commercial Bank’s omni-channel digital banking platform has been adjudged the ‘Best Mobile Banking App’ in Sri Lanka by Global Finance at the 2023 edition of the magazine’s World’s Best Digital Bank Awards presentation in London.
Sri Lanka’s no 1 digital banking platform with the highest usage and customer penetration, ComBank Digital is an integration of all online and mobile banking channels of Commercial Bank of Ceylon offered via a responsive web application and three native mobile applications (iOS, Android and Huawei), enabling access across all devices such as desktop PCs, laptop computers, tabs and smart phones.
The Global Finance award for Best Mobile Banking App is based on a comprehensive assessment of interactive features covering 39 parameters and was one of 11 consumer sub-categories used by the magazine to select the winners for the World’s Best Digital Banks Awards ceremony held on October 17 at London’s iconic Banking Hall. Sub-category winners were selected based on the relative strength and success of their web products and services.
Commercial Bank’s Assistant General Manager – Digital Banking Mr Pradeep Banduwansa, who accepted the award on behalf of the Bank commented: “This award is particularly noteworthy because it examines a wide spectrum of aspects from ease of access and features, functionality and ease of use, to compatibility with different browsers and operating systems, integration with external partners, content, responsive web design and much more, including future plans in terms of features. We are therefore delighted to have passed with flying colours to be adjudged the best mobile banking app in Sri Lanka.”
Used by more than a million Commercial Bank customers, ComBank Digital offers the convenience of self-registration, providing instant access to a banking platform that is secured with industry-level security standards, and delivers a convenient, swift, and safe digital 24x7 365-day banking experience, to users anywhere in the world.
Enhancing user convenience, ComBank Digital features a range of built-in options that allow users to customise their digital banking preferences on their own without the assistance of a bank agent. They can increase the security level of ComBank Digital by enabling biometric login access, device registration for secure login and device management, selection of alerts with One Time Passwords (OTPs) and setting up of alert delivery methods via push notifications.
ComBank Digital offers services such as checking balances of Current Accounts, Savings Accounts, Investments, Loans and Credit Card accounts and transactional activities such as investments in Fixed Deposits, instant payments to any account across the banking network, share trading settlements and more. ComBank Digital also supports bill payments to nearly 100 entities in nine categories such as Telephone, Electricity, Water, Credit Cards, Insurance, Pay TV, Education, Schools and Rates.
ComBank Digital is a comprehensive solution for customers’ financial needs. They can effect payments to government institutions, apply for personal loans, and apply for loans and overdraft facilities against their eFDs (electronic Fixed Deposits). Commercial Bank has expanded its digital platform to include its overseas operations in Bangladesh and Maldives as well.
Global Finance, founded in 1987, has a circulation of 50,000 readers in 193 countries, territories and districts. Global Finance’s audience includes senior corporate and financial officers responsible for making investment and strategic decisions at multinational companies and financial institutions.
Sri Lanka’s first 100% carbon neutral bank and the first Sri Lankan bank to be listed among the Top 1000 Banks of the World, Commercial Bank operates a network of 271 branches and 957 automated machines in Sri Lanka. Commercial Bank is the largest lender to Sri Lanka’s SME sector and is a leader in digital innovation in the country’s Banking sector. The Bank’s overseas operations encompass Bangladesh, where the Bank operates 20 outlets; Myanmar, where it has a Microfinance company in Nay Pyi Taw; and the Maldives, where the Bank has a fully-fledged Tier I Bank with a majority stake.
Photo caption : Commercial Bank’s Assistant General Manager – Digital Banking Mr Pradeep Banduwansa accepts the Best Mobile Banking App award on behalf of the Bank.
September, 20, 2023
HUTCH, the leading telecom operator in Sri Lanka, is set to redefine mobile connectivity by introducing its revolutionary eSIM for all users of compatible iPhone, Samsung, and various other smartphone brands. An eSIM, also known as an embedded SIM, is a miniature component seamlessly integrated within compatible mobile devices, obviating the necessity for physical SIM cards. With the flexibility offered by eSIM, users will be able to have a second connection that can operate along with the primary number.
To get started on a HUTCH eSIM, the process is straightforward:
CMO of HUTCH Sri Lanka, Hamdhy Hassen commented, “We are very pleased to introduce our eSIM service to the mobile subscribers of Sri Lanka. With HUTCH eSIM, more people will be empowered to make great choices. Through a quick and fully digitized process, eSIM-supporting device users will be able to get on and experience the new and largely expanded HUTCH network that spans all over the country in moments. With the best portfolio of unlimited mobile data and call packages that HUTCH offers, users are also assured of great savings and ultimate peace of mind.”
Furthermore, this eSIM evolution will also resonate with environmentally conscious consumers who seek innovative solutions that enhance mobile connectivity while contributing to sustainability efforts. By eliminating the need for physical SIM cards, HUTCH is taking a significant step toward reducing electronic waste and promoting a greener, more sustainable future.
September, 12, 2023
SLT Digital Services (Pvt) Limited (SLT-DIGITAL), the emerging marketing and digital engagement solutions arm of Sri Lanka Telecom PLC (SLT-MOBITEL group), proudly announces the launch of its latest offering, the online directory, Automobile.LK. This digital platform is set to redefine Sri Lanka's automotive landscape by providing a comprehensive hub for all things automobile-related.
Automobile.LK emerges as the country's foremost and most inclusive AUTOMOBILE Web Portal, catering to every conceivable auto-related requirement. From providing up-to-date information and insights on vehicles to showcasing a comprehensive spectrum of auto services and industry suppliers, as well as facilitating vehicle transactions, the portal serves as a centralized destination.
The online directory, Automobile.LK takes center stage as the pivotal tool for auto enterprises to secure their presence and advertise within a dynamic online environment. This platform empowers automotive businesses to showcase their products and services, forming the bedrock of localized Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and serving as a gateway to attracting a global audience through search engine results.
"Automobile.LK is a revolutionary step forward for the automobile industry in Sri Lanka," stated Mr. Upul Manchanayake, Chief Executive Officer at SLT Digital Services. "By harnessing the power of digital technology, we are creating a virtual ecosystem that streamlines access to vital auto-related information and establishes meaningful connections between consumers and businesses."
As SLT Digital Services steps into the forefront of digitizing Sri Lanka's automobile sector, excitement is palpable about the transformative influence that Automobile.LK will exert. This innovation is not merely a platform but a catalyst for enhanced industry collaboration and customer engagement.
September, 5, 2023
Mad Mobile Inc., an industry leader focused on empowering industries with technology that drives mobile experiences, announced the alignment of its Sri Lankan (SL) Operations as it transitions from CAKE Engineering to Mad Mobile LK.
The alignment of brand represents a shift for its SL Operations as it brings all its business units under a single, unified identity and purpose, where in addition to driving innovation for CAKE POS, Mad Mobile LK will be supporting the organization’s entire product suite. Furthermore, it marks a significant milestone in the evolution of its SL Operations, as it continues to reinvent itself, taking a fresh and forward-looking approach to the market.
“This is the first step to leveraging the strength of the Mad Mobile brand and becoming the most trusted, and most innovative organization in our industry,” said Nishan de Silva Wijeyeratne, Senior Manager, Branding and Communications at Mad Mobile. “This evolution is not just a cosmetic one – we have taken this as an opportunity to realign our entire SL Operations, giving us the perfect platform to challenge, disrupt and reimagine the future – striving to be better at everything we do, every day.”
Commenting on the business alignment, Bruce Bennett, Chief Executive Officer at Mad Mobile said, “Sri Lanka is a global hub for engineering talent and resources - we are extremely proud to add to a thriving industry in Sri Lanka and excited about this next phase in our organization’s growth trajectory.”
In 2020, Mad Mobile Inc. acquired the Sri Lanka-based restaurant technology company, CAKE, to accelerate its vision and deliver a next-gen POS solution featuring modern architecture and mobile capabilities. “The last three years have been a turning point for the Sri Lankan Operations,” says Seshan Gunatilaka, Country Head and Vice President of Delivery at Mad Mobile. “We have evolved our focus to a customer experience technology company, constantly challenging ourselves to push for new answers. With this change, we now look forward to the next chapter of our journey, continuing to pioneer technologies that help change the future.”
The organizational alignment will be rolled out across Sri Lanka in the coming weeks and includes an amalgamation with the official Mad Mobile website to provide an enhanced experience for stakeholders and be a valuable resource to understand the organization’s business, solutions, culture, and commitment to its people.
Image Caption : Left to right: Nishan de Silva Wijeyeratne, Senior Manager – Branding and Communications, Mad Mobile and Seshan Gunatilaka, Country Head and Vice President of Delivery, Mad Mobile
July, 26, 2023
XpressJobs, the leading job portal in Sri Lanka, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Ideal Motors, a fully owned subsidiary of the Ideal Group, for an innovative Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. This joint initiative aims to uplift underprivileged students residing in remote areas outside Colombo by introducing Free National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Level 4 courses.
The NVQ Level 4 courses offered as part of the program equip participants with theoretical and practical course, with comprehensive knowledge, skills, and competencies in various areas. Ideal motors will facilitate on-the-job training for the apprentices in its island-wide workshops.
Successful apprentices will receive internationally recognized NVQ Level 4 certificates in Auto painting (1 year) or automobile mechanic (2 years) depending on the filed they chose. Furthermore, trainees will receive a monthly allowance, along with accommodation, uniforms, safety tools, and meals provided free of charge. This certification will open doors to employment opportunities within the Ideal Group's extensive network of branches across the island.
“We are thrilled to partner with Ideal Motors for this transformative CSR program aimed at empowering eager students in remote areas of Sri Lanka. At XpressJobs, we firmly believe that every individual deserves equal opportunities, and this partnership allows us to make a real difference in the lives of deserving youth and foster inclusivity by ensuring equal opportunities for girls in the automobile field. Together with Ideal Motors, we are committed to offering an education path building a brighter future for Sri Lanka by empowering these talented individuals,” XpressJobs Dr. Oshadie Korale said.
XpressJobs, renowned for its pioneering CV-less system, will utilize its platform to source candidates from distant areas. Through this system, job seekers can effortlessly apply for opportunities by simply filling out a form over the phone, eliminating the requirement for a traditional CV. XpressJobs reached youth in suburbs through native languages from social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok ect., using video job advert concepts.
“We are delighted to join forces with XpressJobs for this CSR program. By leveraging XpressJobs' platform, we can now connect with and access individuals who are genuinely interested in the automobile field, and otherwise would have not gone into skilled labor, due to not having a path to higher education. We are happy to say students from previous batches have even been able to secure foreign employment as well. Together with XpressJobs, we are dedicated to making a lasting impact on the lives of students " Ideal Motors Mr. Chaminda Wanigarthne, Director Automotive highlighted.
The CSR program, primarily focused on assisting youth in remote communities, In line with this mission, XpressJobs has developed an extensive marketing plan to reach the masses and engage young individuals. Special attention is also being given to ensuring equal opportunities for girls, particularly in the automotive field, where gender representation is traditionally imbalanced.
Signing of the MOU
Image Caption : (From left to right): Mr. Lakshan Daluwatha (XpressJobs), Mr. Joe Peter (XpressJobs), Mr. Chaminda Wanigarthnee ( Director: Ideal Motors), Mr. Nalin Welgama ( Founder and Executive Chairman: Ideal Motors), Dr. Oshadie Korale (COO-XpressJobs), Mr. Upul Perera (Ideal Motors), Manoj Rathnayake ( Ideal Motors)
June, 23, 2023
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) Mobile app has exceeded 300,000 downloads with a turnover contribution of LKR 135 billion since its inception in 2020.
The CSE Mobile App has had traction from locally as well as from overseas. Data depicts that 85% of the downloads are from Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the data also shows, there has been downloads from approximately 53 countries, highlighting the fact of growing interest towards CSE among potential investors residing overseas.
The CSE Mobile app offers a transformative digital service for an end-to-end digital onboarding and online account opening feature.
The CSE was able to attract a large number of tech savvy youth between the ages of 18-30, thereby increasing the CDS Account submission via mobile App to 81%.
Further, the app provides convenient access for information on the latest developments in the Sri Lankan Stock Market. The main features of the CSE Mobile App are, the ability to open a CDS Account online, access for educational content on investing and trading, access to CSE market reports, analysis and data and current corporate news, dividend instructions, nominations, subscribe for IPO’s. The CSE Mobile app is available in all three languages, Sinhala, English and Tamil.
Commenting on the achievement, CSE CEO Mr. Rajeeva Bandaranaike said, “The CSE mobile app provides fast and convenient access to the stock market, from the point of opening a CDS account and start trading through a stockbroker of your choice, obtain market data, and to be updated on all business news and financial data. Access to financial educational content is also available at your fingertips through the CSE Mobile app.”
“Further, the CDS e-connect facility through the Mobile app offers a number of services to its users, such as balance view, transaction history view, monthly statements for the past six months, account detail change instructions, intra account transfer requests, private transfer requests for margin providers, dividend instructions, nominations, IPO Subscriptions, e-mail and mobile number change requests and provides corporate information dissemination to stakeholders.
June, 6, 2023
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) are pleased to announce the MoJo Lanka festival, a two-day event celebrating the power of mobile journalism and digital storytelling.
The festival will take place on June 24-25 at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
MoJo Lanka will provide a dynamic platform for journalists, storytellers, and content creators to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of mobile journalism. The festival will feature a series of panel discussions with a mix of national and international experts on key topics, including the powerful impact of citizen journalism, strategies to combat fake news, and techniques for growing an audience for digital content.
The festival is honored to host MoJo legend and #MoJoFest founder, Glen Mulcahy, as the keynote speaker. Mulcahy, whose work has contributed significantly to the global expansion of mobile journalism, will inspire attendees with his expert insights. U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung will provide remarks. Master classes by local and international experts will also be offered, providing participants with the chance to learn about the nuances of MoJo storytelling. Industry giants such as David Hayward, the editor of the first BBC newsroom to be staffed exclusively with video journalists, will join other esteemed industry professionals to discuss the increasing significance of mobile reporting. Award-winning mobile journalist and producer, K.C Saranga will deliver talks on shooting the perfect story.
“Mobile journalism is the biggest revolution in news. With a smartphone, anybody can assume the role of a cameraman, editor, producer, and publisher of instant news. We support this initiative to mitigate the growth of misinformation and disinformation that can damage the culture of good journalism. The United States is a steadfast supporter of journalistic integrity, a key pillar of every democracy and especially Sri Lanka’s democracy which boasts a long, proud, and resilient history. This is a stance we have maintained for the 75 years of close partnership between our two countries,”, said Gabriel Grau, USAID Mission Director for Sri Lanka and Maldives.
The USAID-supported Media Empowerment for a Democratic Sri Lanka (MEND) initiative has been a catalyst in promoting mobile journalism in Sri Lanka. The festival is a concrete manifestation of this, providing a platform for both budding and established content creators to network, share experiences, and showcase their work.
“MoJo Lanka is more than a festival,” said Jean MacKenzie, Chief of Party of the USAID-funded MEND program. “It signals a growing movement aimed at revolutionizing the way stories are told and heard in Sri Lanka. By leveraging the power of mobile technology and the vast possibilities for content creation offered by today’s cyber world, we are bringing fresh perspectives and new voices to the media landscape.”
The festival promises to be a transformative event that will not only highlight the best of Sri Lanka's journalistic talent but also inspire a new wave of digital storytelling in the country.
For more information about MoJo Lanka, visit our website - https://mojolanka.lk/.
April, 9, 2023
Japanese Ambassador Guest Speaker at the CMTA Breakfast Forum
The Ceylon Motor Traders Association (CMTA) the most senior automotive association in South Asia, recently concluded another Stakeholder Breakfast Forum, which was held at the Hilton Colombo Residencies. The event was graced by the Ambassador for Japan in Sri Lanka His Excellency Mizukoshi Hideaki as the guest speaker while several senior officials from Ministries, Government Institutions and other stakeholder organizations of the Motor Industry also participated.
Charaka Perera, Chairman of the Ceylon Motor Traders’ Association, addressed the gathering highlighting the need to regulate the motor industry to protect consumers, environment and the economy. Citing many non-essential imports done in the last few years, he suggested that the government should consider a quota system for all such industries and offer a quota for the automobile industry as well, which would also enable to reduce the exorbitantly high used vehicles prices. He stressed that efficient mobility is essential for the functioning of any economy and that 50% of the current vehicle fleet in the country is over 10 years old.
Perera said: “With all due respect these industries, I wish to highlight the import expenditure for the two calendar years of 2020 & 2021 of some of them. It was $421M to import finished clothing & accessories, $739M for Home Appliances & furniture, $310M for seafood $122M for cosmetics & toiletries and the list goes on.
The total forex outflow for these 04 categories alone was $1,592M for two years. Therefore, we believe that there should have been a quota system for most of these industries which could have allowed all of them to survive including ours. Considering the numbers I stated, the auto industry could have easily been allocated at least $400M, which would have been sufficient for the industry to manage our businesses without bleeding, save over 15,000 lost jobs and provide much needed government revenue” Concluding his address, he requested the Ambassadors support to regulate the industry and to support the establishment of an automotive component manufacturing & export industry in the country.
The gathering was then addressed by Ambassador Mizukoshi Hideki. In his address, Ambassador Mizukoshi spoke of the important need of economic and fiscal reforms conditioned by the IMF, as they would help restore the local economy sustainably. He further elaborated on Japan’s wide-ranging assistance to Sri Lanka and his perspectives on the promotion of Japanese investment in Sri Lanka, and the challenges faced by Japanese companies in doing so.
He said “I would like to congratulate Sri Lanka for the successful approval of the IMF facility as it marks a major step for the revitalization of Sri Lanka’s economy. In order to fully restore the economy in a sustainable manner, Sri Lanka needs to implement a series of fiscal and economic reforms agreed with IMF and Japan continues to support such efforts. Now that IMF EFF is approved, I hope that overtime the economy of Sri Lanka would be recovered and Sri Lanka would be ready to lift restrictions for imports of automobiles“
After his address, the Ambassador took part in a Q & A Session which was moderated by Mr. Yasendra Amerasinghe, the Immediate Past Chairman of the CMTA and answered several questions from the moderator and the audience on varied topics. The Ambassador mentioned that supporting the sustainable development including de-carbonization, filling the gaps of different standards of living in different regions, supporting the improvement of investment environment falls within the priorities of Japan for Sri Lanka. Regarding EVs, he commented that if the power is generated with coal, there is not much advantage in electric vehicles and that Sri Lanka should consider decarbonisation in power generation. But he also mentioned that a Japanese company is interested in making electric three wheelers in Sri Lanka as they are mainly for short runs.
Founded in 1920, the Ceylon Motor Traders Association (CMTA) is the only Ceylon Chamber of Commerce affiliated trade body that represents vehicle manufacturers through their locally appointed franchise holders (commonly called ‘agents’). The members of the CMTA collectively employ and train thousands of Sri Lankan citizens while bringing in international best practices in engineering and management, developing a talent pool that is trained and employable internationally.
[caption id="attachment_115150" align="alignnone" width="750"] Ambassador Mizukoshi Hideaki addressing the gathering[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_115148" align="alignnone" width="750"]
CMTA Chairman Charaka Perera addressing the gathering[/caption]
March, 14, 2023
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) Mobile App was adjudged as a winner, in the category of Business and Commerce, by the e-Swabhimani Grand Jury, at the e-Swabhimani Awards 2021 which was held recently.
The e-Swabhimani is an initiative of the Information Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka, aimed at recognizing excellence in digital application creation. Launched in year 2009, e-Swabhimani 2021 is the 11th consecutive year of celebration which local digital talents will be recognized and promoted in national and international platforms.
CSE Mobile App is a joint effort of Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) and Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) and commenced with the objective of identifying measures and mechanisms, required for the Colombo Stock Market to conduct its core activities digitally.
The SEC / CSE joint committee, consisting the representatives of both the CSE and SEC, launched a transformative digital offering through the CSE Mobile App, an end-to-end digital onboarding and online account opening feature.
As for the third phase of Mobile App developments, which took place last year (2022), the committee explored avenues, to bring in investments from retail investors, living outside of Sri Lanka, thus developed infrastructure to offer convenient registration and investment opportunities to foreign investors. Fourteen new features have also been introduced to the Mobile App during its third phase.
Today, the CSE Mobile App, operates in all three languages (Sinhala, English and Tamil) and provides a plethora of services to its’ users. The opening of a CDS account, educational content about investing and trading, convenient access to CSE stock market reports, corporate news, CSE digital services, all upcoming events such as dividends, capitalization of reserves, right issues and ability to subscribe to latest Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), are some of them.
Through CSE Mobile App’s CDS e-connect, a user could view individual account information and through ‘My CSE’ a user could access to company and market information.
Image Caption: The CSE Chief Information Officer, Mr. Chandrakanth Jayasinghe and the Deputy Head of the CDS Mr. Nadeera Athukorala receiving the award from the Hon Minister and ICTA Officials
February, 28, 2023
HUTCH, the pioneering mobile telecom operator in Sri Lanka, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the people of the country during these trying economic times. The latest initiative focuses on three products, enabling customers to access the most affordable fixed-price options, eliminating the worry of excessive usage and spend. The packages look to empower people to save on their mobile bills and use the savings to pay their other increasing bills.
The three exciting cost saver products HUTCH introduces starts from the ‘Katha Nidahasa’ package offering people 60 days of unlimited calling within the HUTCH 072 & 078 network for just Rs. 123. The second “888” product provides customers, non-stop access to the six most popular social media apps (Facebook, Instagram, Whatsapp, Messenger, YouTube & TikTok), plus 30GB of anytime data and unlimited calling to any networks all for just Rs.888 per month. Lastly, the 1499 package offers non-stop data and unlimited calls to any network and for just Rs. 1499 a month. The packages are available in both pre-paid and post-paid options and marketed with tax inclusive rate maintaining absolute simplicity and transparency to customers. .
Thirukumar Nadarasa, CEO of HUTCH said, “We understand that people are facing challenging economic circumstances as living expenses continue to rise and even basic products and services become increasingly difficult to afford. At HUTCH, we have always stood by the people, providing comfort and support especially during trying times. With our newest initiative, we once again step forward to help people control their telecom expenses offering smart fixed value solutions that can be experienced with consistency on our vastly expanded nationwide 4G network.
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