January 11, 2024
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2min

MAS Holdings was honored to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, The Princess Royal on her official visit to the island, marking 75 years of diplomatic ties between the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka. The Royal delegation, including Princess Anne’s husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, made the first stop on their visit at an MAS Holdings facility in Katunayake accompanied by British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Andrew Patrick. MAS Holdings is Sri Lanka’s largest exporter and the country’s largest private sector employer.

 



 

The Princess Royal and Sir Timothy toured MAS Nirmaana, the Product Creation and Development Centre of MAS Active, that showcased the company’s apparel expertise and innovative capability. The leadership of MAS Holdings, including Group CEO of MAS Holdings Suren Fernando, and CEO of MAS Active Muditha Ferdinando, escorted the Royal delegation.

Nirmaana, a global design hub, boasts state-of-the-art technology and capabilities from trend research to digital product creation. As a development facility, Nirmaana is at the forefront of design and innovation in the global apparel industry.

Reflecting on the visit, Group CEO of MAS Holdings Suren Fernando stated, “Hosting HRH The Princess Royal and Sir Timothy Laurence at one of our facilities has been a true honour. The UK, as one of our key markets, has played a critical role in our 36-year journey in apparel. As we celebrate a longstanding history between Sri Lanka and the UK, this is an equally momentous occasion for MAS as it is for the UK-Sri Lanka relationship.”

 


November 24, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

The global apparel and textile giant, MAS Holdings, announced the resounding accomplishment of its subsidiaries, MAS Active Trading (Pvt) Ltd and MAS Intimates (Pvt) Ltd, at the distinguished Presidential Exports Awards for 2021/22 and 2022/23. In recognition of the company’s contribution to Sri Lanka’s export sector, MAS Active (Active and KREEDA divisions) secured Sri Lanka’s overall Exporter of the Year Award for two years 2021/22 and 2022/23. Alongside these two most coveted awards, together, MAS Active and MAS Intimates, secured a total of 16 awards at the event. This recognition of MAS’ contributions to Sri Lanka’s export sector solidifies the company’s standing as an industry leader and critical player in the nation’s economy.

A Remarkable Double Triumph – MAS Active Trading (Pvt) Limited 

MAS Active (Active and KREEDA divisions), celebrated a remarkable victory in addition to the two Overall Exporter Awards for both years, winning the Overall Market Diversified Exporter of the Year, the Best Performing Exporter in Emerging Markets, and a Merit Award in the Apparel Sector – Large Category for 2021/22.

Continuing its winning streak MAS Active secured the awards for Contributor to Sustainable Development in Exports, Innovative Export Product of the Year, Best Performing Exporter in Emerging Markets, and the Best Exporter Award in the Apparel Sector – Large Category for 2022/23.

Pioneering Excellence – MAS Intimates Private Limited

During the 2021/22 cycle, MAS Intimates demonstrated unparalleled excellence in the export domain. The company not only secured the Overall Award for Net Foreign Exchange Earner of the Year but was also awarded as the Best Exporter in Product Diversification and was recognized as the Contributor from the Regions to the Export Supply Chain as well as the Best Exporter in the Apparel Sector – Large Category.

Building on this success, MAS Intimates continued its outstanding performance in 2022/23. The company secured the Overall Award for Net Foreign Exchange Earner of the Year and was recognized as Contributor from the Regions to the Export Supply Chain. Adding to the accolades, MAS Intimates received a Merit Award in the Apparel Sector – Large Category, further solidifying its standing as a key player in the global export market. 

These victories collectively underscore MAS’ position as an undisputed leader in Sri Lanka’s export landscape. As a global apparel and textile manufacturer with a diverse portfolio of brands, MAS Holdings continues to set industry benchmarks and plays a pivotal role in the economic development of Sri Lanka and the wider apparel industry.

 



 

 


October 2, 2023
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10min

 



 

 

In an era where environmental sustainability is transitioning from choice to necessity, MAS Fabric Park (MFP) stands out as a revolutionary force in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. Nestled in the tranquil environs of Thulhiriya in the Kegalle District in Sri Lanka, this 165-acre privately owned apparel-intensive free trade zone is not just a manufacturing hub; it’s the result of the MAS Group’s unwavering vision for sustainability, a testament to the Group’s dedication and a shining example of business harmonizing with the environment.

A Vision for Positive Change

MAS Holdings, the parent company of Fabric Park, has long embraced a vision of sustainable growth and positive transformation within the Company’s ethos, which is seen throughout the organization and its initiatives. The belief is that sustainability goes beyond profit; it’s about fostering positive change in the world, making a difference for the communities around the locality, and leaving a lighter footprint on our planet.

MAS Fabric Park’s CEO Murad Rajudin explained that MFP provides partner plants with centralized utility services including treated water, raw effluent treatment for factory-discharged water, energy in the form of electricity distribution from the main grid, steam, and thermic heat, based on the location of the plant.  “MFP plays a pivotal role in the intricate supply chain of MAS Holdings. Firstly, it is a strategic hub for fabric development and value addition, contributing significantly to the vertical integration of the MAS supply chain. This integration is crucial in a global industry where speed, efficiency, and reducing carbon footprint have become paramount. By offering state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities for fabric manufacturing right within Sri Lanka, MFP not only streamlines operations but also aligns with the global demand for responsible and sustainable manufacturing practices.”

Comprehensive Water Management, Waste Reduction, and Value enhancement

Sustainability is deeply ingrained in every facet of MAS Fabric Park’s operations, notably in its approach to IPZ’s overall water footprint management, centralized effluent treatment, and waste management operations. The Park introduced a uniquely designed centralized raw wastewater collection and combined treatment system, which strictly adheres to global-level Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) standards with respect to the fully treated discharges of the zone.

MFP General Manager (Hydro & Sustainability) Harsha Deraniyagala says, “MFP is leading the way in centralized water management systems, and centralized effluent treatment operations whilst meeting global standards with a present capacity of 9000 cubic meters per day. These innovative systems, operating at such high capacity, eliminate the need for redundant in-house treatment plants for partner facilities, effectively optimizing resources and curbing environmental impact within the zone.”

In addition, MAS Fabric Park has pioneered the sustainable management of textile “sludge”, which is a globally concerned area related to the industry. Through sustainable solar and thermal drying-based reductions, and dried sludge co-processing for energy recovery leading to final eco-brick production, it has significantly reduced the waste footprint of the zone whilst ensuring circularity within the entity. Even the ultimate byproduct of textile wastewater treatment sludge finds purpose in products like the Eco Brick, used in constructing the chalets at MAS Athena and also across other construction needs of the entity, whilst biological waste is being diverted for composting for nurturing plants, aligning seamlessly with the concept of waste-to-energy and waste-to-value. These initiatives contribute for the significant reductions of respective Carbon Footprints usually linked with the water, wastewater, and resultant large-scale environmental engineering operations. The fully equipped, ISO IEC 17025 accredited water quality laboratory and the research center support the related quality assurance and compliance aspects throughout the respective value streams.

Solar Revolution – Clean Energy and Carbon Footprint Reduction

The path to sustainability at MAS Fabric Park was not without its share of challenges. In its early stages, the substantial investment required for clean energy battled with an unfavorable national electricity tariff, resulting in a low return on investment (ROI) for green projects. However, a turning point came with the introduction of the “Sooriya Balasangramaya” national solar initiative, which sparked a newfound interest in clean energy among investors, both industrial and domestic.

Deputy General Manager Nandana Dissanayake proudly affirms, “Our 24 MW solar capacity is a groundbreaking achievement in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy landscape, decreasing our carbon footprint by 20 tons annually.”  MFP wholeheartedly embraced the shift towards clean energy, directly addressing its carbon footprint. Today, it stands at the forefront of rooftop solar installations with an impressive 24 MW of solar capacity spread across its facilities—a milestone that solidifies its status as the largest multi-site rooftop solar project in Sri Lanka under a single business entity.

Top of Form

Beyond Industrialization – Analog Forest and Biodiversity Restoration

One of the most striking aspects of MFP’s sustainability journey revolves around its “Thuruwadula” analog forest. Analog forests represent human-crafted natural ecosystems aimed at reclaiming land lost to agricultural expansion. Thuruwadula, spanning 9.7 acres serves multiple roles as a sanctuary for preserving biodiversity, a model for adapting to climate change and a valuable educational resource.

Within the confines of Thuruwadula, endangered endemic plant species have discovered a safe haven from extinction. The flourishing growth of Ayurvedic and medicinal plants not only benefits the environment but also has a positive impact on local communities. Furthermore, the forest provides a habitat for numerous animal species.

Thuruwadula also plays a crucial role in enhancing rural communities, both socially and economically, by promoting species that offer sustenance and marketable products. While it typically takes up to 80 years for an analog forest to evolve into a rainforest, Thuruwadula, situated in a dry zone, is already displaying approximately 20% of the characteristics of a natural forest. This unique ecosystem is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including 25-35 bird species, 10 butterfly species and 15 snake varieties, as well as deer, mouse deer, porcupines, rabbits and other fauna.

Long-Term Commitment and Future Prospects

“MFP plays a critical role in not only the MAS Supply chain but also the Sri Lankan apparel industry’s supply chain,” says Rajudin.  “Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering given that we have set ambitious goals to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 25% by 2025.” With an annual consumption of approximately 230 million kWh of electricity from the national grid, the shift towards clean energy has already made a substantial impact, reducing carbon footprint by 20 tons annually.

In an industry often criticized for its environmental impact, MFP is a role model of change. It is a reminder that we can reduce our carbon footprint, restore ecosystems and build a brighter future for generations.  It’s a symbol of hope, proving that businesses can be forces for good and that a sustainable future is within our grasp.

As for MFP’s future, the journey is far from over. The Park plans to expand its solar capacity and continue its role as a leader in sustainable practices. It’s not just about meeting today’s environmental standards; it’s about setting new benchmarks for tomorrow.

 



 

 


May 22, 2023
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5min

 



 

 

May 22nd, 2023 – MAS Holdings, South Asia’s largest apparel tech manufacturer, has been recognized and awarded at the Presidential Environment Awards 2021 – 2022 for their exemplary commitment to safeguarding and protecting the environment. The awards ceremony, organized by the Central Environment Authority (CEA) under the guidance of the Ministry of Environment, was held on April 28, 2023, under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

MAS Holdings was honoured with two Gold Awards, a Bronze Award, and a Merit Award in recognition of their significant contribution towards environmental conservation, building an environmentally friendly industry, and encouraging society to adopt environmentally friendly activities.

Bodyline, a strategic business unit of MAS Holdings, won the Gold Award in the Apparel Industries category for their commitment to driving sustainability in the apparel sector, which was presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe. This achievement highlights Bodyline’s dedication to reducing their environmental impact and finding sustainable alternatives in their product creation process, to fit the evolving needs of today’s consumer.

MAS’s warp knit solutions provider, Noyon Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., also received the Gold Award in the Textile and Textile Processing Industries category for their contribution towards environmental sustainability. Over the years, Noyon Lanka has solidified its commitment to sustainable business models through innovative product solutions, process optimizations to reduce impact, and leadership commitment in driving a culture of sustainability within the organization.

Awarded by Dr. Anil Jayasinghe, Secretary – Ministry of Environment, MAS Active Contourline received the Bronze Award for their initiatives to minimize the impact caused to the environment through their operations and community awareness programs. MAS KREEDA Mihinthale was awarded a Merit Award for their continuous contribution to environmental conservation throughout the years, mirroring MAS’ commitments to championing biodiversity as part of its groupwide sustainability strategy, the MAS Plan for Change.

Speaking about the recognition, Suren Fernando, Group CEO of MAS Holdings, said, “MAS was built on the foundation of doing the right thing, and today sustainability is a key strategic effort driven across our organization and our strategic business units. We are grateful for this recognition, which is a testament to our team’s tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable future. We know that businesses have a responsibility to positively influence the environment, and we are always striving to further ourselves along this journey, staying true to our purpose – To be Changemakers, enabling dreams and enriching the fabric of life on our planet.”

The Presidential Environment Awards are widely recognized as the most prestigious recognition in the environmental conservation and protection field in Sri Lanka. Winning these awards highlights MAS Holdings’ effort towards building a sustainable future and further strengthens the commitments made through the MAS Plan for Change.

 



 

 


November 17, 2022
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6min

 



 

 

November 17th, 2022: Bodyline (Pvt.) Ltd, a leading apparel manufacturer and an innovatively disruptive subsidiary of South Asia’s largest apparel tech conglomerate, MAS Holdings, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a campaign dubbed ‘Bodyline Transcends 30 Years.’ Through this campaign, the company hopes to continue to positively impact the lives of the communities they operate through 30 CSR initiatives.

Historically, the company has been engaged in many social initiatives, giving back to its communities for 30 years. It now hopes to double its commitment to communities and stakeholders. Bodyline aims to increase its contribution with new initiatives lined up under the company’s Lives and Planet pillars, to also strengthen employee engagement by enabling internal teams with an opportunity to enrich communities in need.

Commenting on the momentous occasion, Bodyline’s Chief Executive Officer Dinesh De Silva said,

“We have created over 60,000 direct employment opportunities In Sri Lanka and India over our existence. Making a positive impact on our stakeholders, customers, shareholders, employees and community by living our vision to Create, Delight and Inspire. We have established ourselves as the go-to partner for world-renowned brands, providing concept to delivery solutions through our global co-creation centre. Our growth is closely knit with the growth of our people and enriches the communities we work with in living our purpose of “enabling dreams and enriching the fabric of life on the planet”.”

Besides the company’s economic contributions through its business operations, Bodyline also extends a long arm into uplifting communities by contributing through special CSR initiatives that build infrastructure for state-sector schools and hospitals, meet struggling individuals’ needs and support sportsmen and women, to name a few.

Noting some of the upcoming initiatives through the ‘Bodyline Transcends 30 Years’ campaign, the company’s Sustainable Business Deputy General Manager Saumi De-Almeida said that “four of the 30 projects are open to all employees, including the planting of 1,000 kumbuk trees along the Mawak Oya river bed, a 7km beach clean-up stretching from Kalutara to Panadura, a Bodyline Fit and Fun Run to raise funds for school supplies of grade one students, and also the opening of a Food Forest extending over 2 acres of land at Bodyline’s plant premises.”

On the 16th of November, Bodyline also opened two renovated bus halts in Horana, which is close to the company, in celebration of its 30th anniversary.

“We will also have a soft opening at the Ingiriya Hospital, where we will be constructing two new toilet facilities while also renovating and painting the OPD and ETU,” she added.

Reiterating the company’s vision, Bodyline’s Human Resources & Sustainable Business Director Venura Attanayaka said, “our continuous year-on-year success and growth has led us to the 30th anniversary of Bodyline, and it all boils down to our simple yet expansive vision to Create, Delight and Inspire. Not only have we been able to withstand economic and political impacts on the industry, but we have also been able to maintain our contribution towards our beloved communities, which has always been a priority.”

Local communities also cherish the company for its legacy projects which include the building of homes for soldiers through the ‘Ranavirugama’ program, the building of a pediatric High Dependency Unit (HDU) at the Horana Base Hospital, as well as the uplifting of sports like boxing in local communities, by building a boxing ring for Vidyarathna School in Horana.

Bodyline is a joint venture between MAS Holdings, Triumph International Germany and Mast Industries USA. The company has the capacity to produce garments from concept to delivery. It is renowned as the leader in producing fitted garments that provide superior next-to-skin performance wear. It is also the go-to vendor for bra innovations. The company has evolved from making simple minimalist styles for a single customer to multiple styles and silhouettes across product categories for various global brands and abides by its vision to create delight and inspire.

 

 



 

 


November 11, 2022
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2min




 

15th November 2022, Colombo: Earlier this year, MAS Holdings created a new venture when it acquired the assets of BAM Knitting (Pvt) Ltd, a leading fabric knitting and finishing operation in Sri Lanka. Following the acquisition, the new venture was recently rebranded as TEXO (Pvt.) Ltd. Launching its new identity at an event held on the 4th of November 2022, the Group CEO of MAS Holdings, Suren Fernando, laid the foundation stone for the expansion of the TEXO facility located inside the MAS Fabric Park in Thulihiriya.

The new venture further enhances MAS’ capabilities in the knitting, dyeing, and printing space for cotton fabrics and expands its backward vertical integration in the country.

 

The acquisition is a part of MAS’ strategy to strengthen operations in Sri Lanka, where the company sources 50% of its raw material requirement as a key hub for complex apparel products. As part of this strategy, MAS will continue to optimise and grow its capacity in the country, focusing on aggressive productivity improvements and increased agility, further establishing MAS’ position as Sri Lanka’s leading clothing manufacturer.

 

 




 


October 3, 2022
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5min

 



 

 

 

• A jersey that raises awareness on global warming with an aim to inspire climate action

• Over a decade of continued support by MAS, providing performance apparel for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC)

MAS Holdings, South Asia’s largest apparel tech manufacturer, unveiled the official cricket jersey to be worn by the Sri Lankan national team at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T-20 World Cup in Australia this year. The jersey was handed over by the Chairman of MAS Holdings, Mahesh Amalean and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MAS Active, Chelan Goonetilleke, to the Sri Lanka T-20 World Cup captain Dasun Shanaka and the Chairman of SLC, Shammi Silva at an event held on 30th September 2022 at Nirmaana, the MAS Active facility in Katunayake where the jerseys are designed and manufactured.

MAS has built a trusting relationship with SLC since 2005, designing and manufacturing world-class performance apparel for the national cricket team, improving style, comfort and functionality to enhance the players’ performance. Over the years, MAS has introduced new fabrication technologies for the national jersey including high performance synthetic fabric (2005-2008), light weight sport fabrication and sublimation printing (2012), and perspiration mesh fabric and laser perspiration holes (2014). Since 2014, MAS has also focused on improving the aesthetic of the jersey, which has been inspired by Sri Lanka’s unique heritage and identity, giving more meaning to the attire. Recent designs have incorporated the symbol of the lion and lion’s pride to motivate the young team to perform their best on the field, with a spirit like what was witnessed in the recent Asia Cup 2022, where the team emerged champions.

Ahead of the 2022 ICC T-20 World Cup, the feedback from the players were about the difficulty in performing with garments that cling to the body due to increased perspiration. The latest jersey was developed by the MAS Active team after assessing the environmental conditions in the Australian stadiums which have high humidity levels in October, and incorporating learnings from weather patterns, temperatures, and research into sweat glands of the human body.  Based on a body map of perspiration zones, MAS Active developed an engineered fabric with varying levels of ventilation to evaporate sweat faster to keep the player fresh and comfortable. This is in addition to the existing wicking and moisture management technologies used to create a lightweight, high absorbent, stretchable, breathable fabric tailored to maintain the right fit and comfort.

“Clothing the Sri Lanka Cricket team with high performance sportswear has always been at the heart of what we do at MAS,” said Chelan Goonetilleke. “As the Sri Lankan flag flies high with our teams gearing for a sensational T20 World Cup, we will ensure that our players are clad in world-class sportswear that personifies MAS’ craftsmanship and technology, and encapsulates the spirit and passion of all Sri Lankans across the globe,” he added.

Over the years, MAS has used the SLC jersey to raise awareness about important issues such as ocean plastics and the need for recycling. In 2019 and 2021, MAS manufactured the ICC World Cup jerseys using ocean plastics and recycled fugitive plastics collected from around the island. This year’s design incorporates descriptive elements from deforestation, melting glaciers and farming livestock, highlighting how island nations like Sri Lanka are highly susceptible to the effects of global warming such as rising sea levels, increasing temperatures and extreme weather patterns.

MAS stays true to its expertise in apparel tech and innovation, design creativity, and ethical manufacturing practices, providing outstanding performance wear for many world-class athletes around the world.

 



 

 

 


September 15, 2022
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4min

 



 

 

Collaborative conservancy model aims to protect 6,250 acres of the Nairobi National Park Wildlife Dispersal Area

Colombo, 30th August 2022: South Asian apparel manufacturer, MAS Holdings (MAS) has partnered with The Wildlife Foundation (TWF), Kenya to conserve 6,250 acres of the Nairobi National Park Wildlife Dispersal Area. In line with the MAS Plan for Change commitment of restoring 25,000 acres of habitat, this unique initiative enables MAS and TWF to collaborate with local landowners to conserve wildlife on community- and privately-owned land.

The project commenced in March 2022, with a land-lease gathering ceremony with the participation of 58 landowners from the Athi-Kaputiei area. The project is an extension of TWF’s ongoing conservancy model, through which TWF leases lands from local owners to promote wildlife conservation and better land use practices. Through this partnership, MAS has been able to expand TWF’s existing conservancy of 5,000 acres to a total coverage of 11,250 acres.

The conservancy model utilizes both monetary and non-monetary incentives to encourage landowners and local communities to keep land unfenced for wildlife and livestock to move freely in the outskirt lands of the park. This is coupled with initiatives to raise awareness on community-based conservation, place community rangers to mitigate human-wildlife conflict, train youth and women on topics such as beekeeping, biogas, and promote the use of technology to innovate solutions for conservation challenges.

Through the conservancy model, which is collaboratively funded by MAS’ strategic business units MAS Intimates and MAS Kreeda, MAS and TWF provide financial incentives to landowners, to keep private lands open and unfenced for wildlife movement. This contributes to reducing human retaliations against lions and other predators as well as supporting to improve the education of the children in the area by providing landowners with lease payments aligned to the start of the children’s school terms.

MAS established its manufacturing facility in Kenya in 2020, through its subsidiary MAS Intimates. Today, MAS Intimates Kenya (EPZ) Ltd is a leading manufacturer and exporter of lingerie and apparel wear to leading markets in the USA, Europe and Asia, and provides job opportunities for 3,200 Kenyans. The lands in the conservancy model are leased from the Machakos and Kajiado counties, where the majority of MAS Intimates Kenya staff reside.

This conservation project not only contributes considerably to MAS’ target of restoring 25,000 acres of habitat but has also created an opportunity for MAS to engage holistically with its local community in Kenya. The group’s sustainability strategy, the MAS Plan for Change, focuses on 12 commitments under three areas of focus of product, lives, and planet, including championing biodiversity and creating thriving communities.

MAS and TWF have committed to collaborate on this unique conservancy project for the next five years, with the collective hope of uplifting and empowering the community to help change our planet for good.

 



 

 

 


September 7, 2022
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6min

 



 

 

Colombo, September 07 2022: Unilever Sri Lanka recently joined forces with the ‘Manudam Mehewara’ multi-corporation humanitarian alliance initiated by Dialog Axiata PLC, MAS Holdings, Hemas Holdings PLC, execution partner Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement and independent auditor PwC Sri Lanka, together with CBL Group, Citi, Sunshine Holdings PLC and Huawei Technologies Lanka Co Pvt Ltd, to provide emergency relief to families affected by the ongoing economic crisis in the country. Unilever has donated in cash, and also in kind – courtesy of its flagship brands – Sunlight and Lifebuoy.

Whilst taking steps towards building the nation, the emergency relief aims to assist 200,000 vulnerable Sri Lankan families. The relief is currently being distributed across all 25 districts, where over 100,000 families in need have been assisted to date. The funds are utilized to purchase dry rations – dietary staples such as rice, dhal and so on, to address the critical requirement of providing emergency relief until a sustainable benefit transfer system has been executed in the country through an effective economic recovery plan.

Expressing her views on this project, Nilushi Jayatileke, Marketing Director, Personal Care and Beauty & Wellbeing of Unilever Sri Lanka’s said, “It moves us deeply to see the economic hardships and unprecedented challenges faced by our fellow Sri Lankans. At Unilever, we believe in making sustainable living commonplace. Many of our purpose-led brands have always considered it a responsibility to help build a sustainable Sri Lanka by facilitating a better quality of life for our people. Whilst all of us have been doing our part as corporates, the national crisis which we are faced with today is of a much greater magnitude than what a single brand or single corporate can do to make an impactful change. This is where the power of the collective plays an important role. I would like to congratulate Dialog and Sarvodaya as well as the other founding partners for launching Manudam Mehewara, to create a platform to bring together the power of the collective, in order to help our fellow Sri Lankans in a way that would make a scalable impact.”

Speaking on this occasion, Navin Pieris, Group Chief Officer, Dialog Enterprise, Dialog Axiata PLC said, “As a trusted digital companion for over 17 million Sri Lankans, we have recognised the emergency to step forward and assist those in dire need. Teaming up with an entity like Unilever will be both beneficial and resourceful as we need to work together to alleviate the problem that is taking place in our nation. Working alongside like-minded companies will bring much gratitude to all of us when supporting families across Sri Lanka.”

Speaking about the programme, Kamal Gamage, Acting Executive Director, Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement stated, “We at Sarvodaya are thrilled to have Unilever join us in this humanitarian effort and be a part of this timely initiative. As a social service organisation, working with our like-minded partners in harmony will help ease the strain on our people who are going through these difficult times. I would like to extend our thanks to Unilever for partaking in this initiative, for we are confident that it will strengthen our programme further.”

Over the past 84 years, Unilever has been deeply rooted in Sri Lankan society, curating a landscape that preserves and nurtures the true Sri Lankan way of life. It is one of the largest FMCG companies in the country and produces 96% of its products locally to the strictest manufacturing standards. The company’s portfolio comprises 30 market leading brands including Sunlight, Signal, Lifebuoy, Knorr, Vim and many others, through which it positively impacts the lives of 21 million Sri Lankans every day. Enhancing the livelihoods of the communities it operates in will continue to be at the forefront of its efforts.

 



 

 

 


August 23, 2022
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5min

 



 

 

22nd August, Colombo, Sri Lanka: MAS Holdings (MAS) has been selected as a finalist for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion category at the 13th Reuters Events: Responsible Business Awards 2022 – the world’s leading celebration of responsible business excellence.

Group Human Resources Director of MAS Holdings, Dinali Peiris, stated, “We are thrilled to be shortlisted in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion category for the work that we are doing to create a diverse and inclusive organisation for our 118,000 employees across 17 countries. The diversity of our employees’ perspectives, experiences and skill sets has been instrumental in defining MAS’ offering to our customers, our communities, and all our stakeholders, and we continue to learn from them every day.”

MAS is committed to building a diverse workplace with equal opportunities, focusing on having 30% women in management by 2025, and fostering inclusion with a special emphasis on persons with disabilities.

Through its flagship women’s empowerment program, Women Go Beyond (WGB), MAS has provided 3.7 million opportunities for women in areas such as career advancement, women’s health and reproductive rights, preventing gender-based violence, providing childcare support, mentorship and sponsorship for women, and leadership and skills development. MAS’ efforts to create gender equality include flexible work arrangements, recruitment policies, gender-sensitive communication, reducing unconscious biases and setting goals and strategies to hold leaders accountable to improve female representation in management.

Employing a rights-based approach in the inclusion of persons with disabilities, MAS proudly grows with over 380 colleagues with disabilities ranging from vision, speech, hearing, cognitive and physical impairments employed within the business. Through the Supported Employment model, MAS provides the 4E framework of Employ, Engage, Enable, Empower, to help employees with disabilities integrate into the organisation. MAS goes a step further to extend its work with persons with disabilities to the products they make, with a focus on creating adaptive apparel solutions for their customers, believing that clothes should be designed for everybody and every body.

The Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards are the world’s leading Awards celebrating leadership in sustainable business. It is more than acknowledging excellent sustainability strategies. The Responsible Business Awards recognise those that are truly having an impact on business, society, and the environment – delivering a new blueprint for business in the 21st century.

For the past 13 years, the Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards have served as the benchmark for businesses from across the globe that are looking to showcase real leadership against their international peers.

“It has been inspiring to see the quality and number of entries we’ve received for this year’s Awards. There’s been a lot of new faces joining us in 2022, showing the progress we as an industry are making towards a more sustainable future. There are some truly amazing initiatives and innovations across the globe that are driving new responsible ways of doing business. We look forward to celebrating their successes back in person at our ceremony in London in October.” Ed Long, Head of Sustainable Business Events.

Finalists for the Diversity, Inclusion and Equity category, including a brief overview of their leading strategies can be found here: https://events.reutersevents.com/sustainable-business/responsible-business-awards/finalists

 



 

 

 



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