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February 26, 2024

26^th February 2024: AIA Insurance made headlines with its 2024 Partnership Distribution Business Launch. Paving its way towards nearly two decades of collaborative success, the event showcased AIA’s dynamic evolution in the Bancassurance industry. AIA has been working closely with leading banks, including long-standing partners NDB and DFCC. These enduring collaborations have played a pivotal role in AIA’s success story. Furthermore, AIA recently secured an exclusive partnership with Commercial Bank, expanding its footprint in the financial landscape. The event also felicitated the NDB CEO, Dimantha Seneviratne for his collaborative leadership towards the growth of the AIA-NDB Bancassurance partnership. In addition to these banking partnerships, AIA has forged strong ties with NDB Wealth Management, while also continuing their long standing relationship with key insurance brokers. The 2024 Partnership Distribution Business Launch highlighted these collaborative efforts, emphasizing AIA’s dedication to innovation and customer centric services as it paves its way towards the next phase of its transformative journey.

February 18, 2024

8^th February 2024: AIA Insurance continues its strategic expansion efforts with the opening of a new AIA RDO in Matara. Situated at No. 537, Galle Road, Walgama, Matara, this new office represents a significant milestone in AIA’s commitment to enhancing its distribution network and customer outreach.

The opening ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for AIA in the Matara City, reinforcing the company’s dedication to providing comprehensive financial solutions to individuals and families. The AIA RDO in Matara is staffed with a team of experienced insurance professionals poised to deliver a diverse array of services, including life insurance, health insurance, retirement plans, and investment solutions.

This strategic expansion underscores AIA’s mission to encourage customers to secure their financial futures with confidence. By establishing a presence in Matara, AIA reaffirms its commitment to serving communities across Sri Lanka with personalized, reliable insurance and financial planning services.

With its unwavering focus on customer satisfaction and financial wellbeing, AIA Insurance looks forward to building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact in the vibrant community of Matara.

More News from #AIA Insurance | #Matara

February 12, 2024

23^rd January 2023: In a trailblazing achievement, AIA Insurance, Sri Lanka’s Most Respected Insurer (LMD and NielsenIQ, 2023), has secured the illustrious EDGE Assess certification, solidifying its commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. This certification marks AIA as the only insurer in Sri Lanka to attain this globally recognised standard. AIA’s EDGE Certification, the process of which was supported by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) under the IFC-DFAT Women in Work programme, helps recognise its strategic commitment to fostering equal career opportunities for women and men.

AIA’s dedication to diversity and inclusivity is underscored by notable qualitative and quantitative achievements. Historically, insurance has been a male dominated industry although this is slowly changing, and we know that women can add so much value to the industry. At AIA, there has been tangible testament to this with a proactive and persistent bridging of the gender gap through enforcing a culture of meritocracy. As such, at AIA, today, 44% of employees are women, 48% of the sales force are women and 52% among the top 100 high performers.

The implementation of inclusive policies has resulted in a remarkable increase in employee satisfaction and engagement. This in turn has contributed to AIA being listed as a Best Workplace in Sri Lanka for 11 years straight, earning the status of Great Place to Work LEGEND and being recognised as a Best Workplace for Women for 6 consecutive years, by the Great Place To Work® Institute.

This EDGE certification, which is the latest recognition of AIA’s outstanding commitment to equity, diversity and inclusivity, places AIA in a league of its own within the insurance sector, in Sri Lanka. As the first and only insurer in Sri Lanka to achieve EDGE Assess certification, AIA sets a new standard for diversity and inclusion initiatives. Beyond compliance, the certification acts as a powerful magnet for top-tier talent, recognising AIA as a workplace committed to prioritizing diversity and equity. This achievement not only enhances AIA’s reputation as a socially responsible entity but also positions the company as an innovation hub, fostering creativity within its diverse and inclusive workforce.

As AIA paves the way with its EDGE Assess certification, the company encourages others in the industry to follow. The collective commitment to diversity and inclusion will contribute to a more inclusive and forward-thinking business landscape.

November 30, 2023

29th November 2023: Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC (“Commercial Bank”), Sri Lanka’s largest private bank and AIA Insurance Lanka Limited (“AIA Sri Lanka”), pioneers of Bancassurance in Sri Lanka are delighted to announce an exclusive long-term Bancassurance partnership.

This milestone marks a partnership between two corporate giants, each with a legacy of more than 100 years. Commercial Bank and AIA both bring unrivalled strength, experience and reputability. Combining AIA’s vast experience across Asia with Commercial Bank’s meaningful connections with local communities will set the ideal platform to deliver compelling propositions to Sri Lankans.

In this partnership, Commercial Bank will draw on AIA’s best-in-class capabilities to provide a broad range of carefully curated life and health insurance propositions to Commercial Bank’s extensive network of more than 3.5 million customers, spanning across 272 branches. This long-term exclusive partnership is expected to deliver better financial protection to more Sri Lankans, enhancing the insurance penetration and financial inclusivity of Sri Lankans in a sustainable manner.

Sanath Manatunge, Commercial Bank Managing Director said:

“Trust and financial strength are fundamental values that customers look for in a partner in both banking and insurance. This collaboration brings together two of the most trusted and strongest financial services brands in the market, creating a force to be reckoned with in the sphere of Bancassurance. We are delighted to partner with AIA to promote protection and saving at a time when these aspects have become extra relevant.”

Chathuri Munaweera, AIA Sri Lanka CEO, said:

“This partnership brings together two respected corporates in our country, unlocking a strong potential to provide unparalleled protection to Sri Lankans. We are both aligned in our mission to help Sri Lankans live healthier, longer, better lives and in our pursuit of sustainable growth powered by digital and technological transformation.”

“In 2006, we pioneered Bancassurance in Sri Lanka and have been at the forefront ever since. Our financial strength is demonstrated through the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 798% by end of third quarter of 2023 which is more than six times the regulatory threshold and remains significantly higher compared to the industry.”

“We have always been committed to Sri Lanka’s economic development and believe this partnership creates a unique opportunity to harness the country’s full growth potential.”

Tan Hak Leh, AIA Sri Lanka Chairman and Regional Chief Executive of AIA Group, said:

“The partnership is aligned with AIA’s Bancassurance strategy of partnering with leading financial institutions to broaden our distribution capabilities across the region, and we expect it to deliver strong value for both AIA’s and Commercial Bank’s customers.”

“AIA believes in the strength of long-term relationships and we assure Commercial Bank and its customers of our commitment to a long-term partnership that provides world-class protection.”

August 25, 2023

22^nd August 2023: AIA Insurance, Sri Lanka’s Best Life Insurer (recognised by Capital Finance International 2022, 2021 and Global Banking and Finance Review 2020, 2019) marked a momentous celebration by honouring their top-performing Wealth Planners at the AIA Sales Convention held recently at Monarch Imperial, Sri Jayawardenapura, Kotte.

Under the patronage of AIA’s CEO Chathuri Munaweera, Deputy CEO Upul Wijesinghe and Chief Agency Officer Chanaka Liyanage alongside AIA’s Executive Committee, Senior Management and the Agency Operation teams, the audience also comprised the esteemed sales achievers including AIA’s Wealth Planners, Wealth Planners’ Managers, Three Tier Managers and DU Heads from across the island.

The event was hosted under the theme ‘Chasing Greatness, Across the Time’ and recognised the exceptional performance of AIA’s Wealth Planners whose passion and perseverance helped them record a remarkable performance. They were also appreciated for being true ambassadors of their promise to help customers live healthier, longer and better lives.

The highlight of the evening were the six main awards presented to recognise the best achievers of 2022. This year’s winner of the Best Wealth Planner was Sanjeewani Somarathna from the Kandy ADO. Udaya Hiththatiyage (Matara ADO) and Asela Jayasinghe (Kurunegala ADO) won 1st runner- up and 2nd runner- up respectively.

The Best Wealth Planners’ Manager award was won by Nimal Fernando from Wennappuwa DU, while Kumar Perera (Panadura City ADO) and Ajith Indika (Colombo Region 04) won 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up respectively.

Meanwhile, Krishan Dassanayake from the Panadura City ADO won the Best Cluster Wealth Planners’ Manager award. Thakshila Koralage from Moratuwa ADO won 1st runner-up while Chandima Wanniarachchi from Kurunegala ADO won 2nd runner-up.

The Best Three Tier Manager Award was awarded to Ransilu Perera from Moratuwa ADO.

Dileepa Ameendra from Tissamaharaa and Matara ADO won the Best Area Development Manager. Y.G.G.B. Yatigammana (Mawanella ADO) and Chaminda Gunathilake (Kurunegala ADO) won 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up respectively.

Eresh Silva was adjudged the Best Distribution Unit Head from Negombo Region 01. Tharindu Weerakoon from Wennappuwa was the 1st runner-up in this award category.

AIA’s Chief Agency Officer Chanaka Liyanage commented, “In our journey of ‘Chasing Greatness, Across the Time’ our Wealth Planners have showcased dedication, set new benchmarks and exemplified the essence of superior customer service. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding achievements and unwavering commitment to our mission of helping Sri Lankans lead healthier, longer, and better lives.”

The theme ‘Chasing Greatness, Across the Time’ was intended at highlighting AIA Wealth Planners’ resolute dedication and persistent commitment to surpassing expectations and achieving remarkable milestones in not just business performance but also customer service.

July 28, 2023

28^th July 2023 – 3 lives saved and zero deaths this year during Poson at Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Mihintale, Dambulla and the surrounding areas thanks to the AIA Poson Safety Programme. Now in its 28th year, this national safety programme is one of the longest standing CSR projects in the country.

This year, AIA Insurance deployed over 500 lifeguards across 22 reservoirs and lakes, ensuring that pilgrims were safe when they bathe in the bodies of water. AIA also installed warning signboards, hoardings, and banners across the Anuradhapura District, effectively raising awareness about the dangers of drowning and encouraging pilgrims to be cautious. There was also a fully-fledged safety awareness campaign promoted across digital media and not to forget the first of its kind ‘AIA Safe Map’ which showed users the safe and unsafe waters in the area. Notably this first of its kinds Safe Map had over 5000 page visits.

Over the years, this national initiative has saved over 200 lives and become an integral part of AIA’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Sri Lankan communities in collaboration with Sri Lanka Lifesaving, Sri Lanka Police, Sri Lanka Navy, and the Civil Security Division. The success of the 28th AIA Poson Safety Programme can be attributed to the selfless efforts of numerous volunteers and stakeholders who worked tirelessly to safeguard the lives of others.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude, a pilgrim who was rescued shared, “I am so deeply thankful and indebted to the volunteers who saved my life. We come on pilgrimage to Anuradhapura every year and we have always admired the efforts made by AIA in safeguarding the pilgrims’ lives. This initiative organized to ensure the pilgrims’ safety is meritorious because if not for them, my family would have been destroyed.”

AIA’s Chief Marketing Officer, Sasith Bambaradeniya, expressed his heartfelt joy in witnessing the gathering of thousands of Sri Lankans in Anuradhapura to celebrate Poson. “Keeping to AIA’s brand promise of helping people live healthier, longer, better lives, the company has consistently delivered on its promise of safeguarding lives through our Poson Safety Programme. Looking back on this social responsibility, we humbly take pride in our endeavour to educate the public and save lives as a national commitment.”

As the 28th edition of the AIA Poson Safety Programme concludes, AIA Insurance remains dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of Sri Lankans by fostering a culture of safety, responsibility, and compassion.

March 17, 2023

AIA Sri Lanka has announced the appointment of Upul Wijesinghe as an Executive Director of the Board of Directors (BOD) with effect from 30^th January 2023 subject to the approval of the Insurance Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka. Upul is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Distribution Officer of AIA Sri Lanka. He is a highly respected insurance professional in the industry with over 30 years of experience.

Upul started his journey with the Company as a Graduate Management Trainee and climbed up the corporate ladder through his career with the Company. He has gained extensive exposure in general management, all aspects of life and general insurance including sales, technical covering also underwriting, reinsurance and multiple distribution channels at various levels and also received both local and international training opportunities with the Company. He has previously held the statutory positions of Specified Officer and the Principal Officer of the Company as well.

Upul is an Associate Member of the Chartered Insurance Institute of UK and a Chartered Insurer. He holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Mathematics from the University of Colombo and a Post Graduate Diploma in Actuarial Science from Uva Wellassa University.

Upul was the President of the Sri Lanka Insurance Institute (SLII) from 2001 to 2003. He was instrumental in establishing SLII’s Insurance Agency qualification examination for Sri Lanka and the National Insurance Congress. In an ultimate honour, he was inducted to the Hall of Fame of SLII in 2015.

Upul was instrumental in setting up AIA’s highly successful life agency sales force and its best-in-class operational model island wide with over 100 branches, over 4000 agents and 350 Agency leaders. He has received many accolades locally and internationally including AIA Group’s ‘Best Growth CAO Award 2021’ and ‘2H Rebound CAO Challenge Category 2020’. This new appointment to the AIA Sri Lanka’s BOD is yet another outstanding milestone in Upul’s professional journey.

Tan Hak Leh, Chairman of AIA Sri Lanka, welcoming Upul to the Board noted that Upul will be adding much value to the Board with his vast experience in the local insurance industry and his leadership contribution in steering the business forwards in a challenging environment. He further stated that this appointment is another apt demonstration of AIA Group’s trust in and appreciation of the local talent in Sri Lanka.

Chathuri Munaweera, CEO / Executive Director of AIA Sri Lanka congratulating the appointment, added that the appointment of Upul Wijesinghe to the Board of Directors is a testament of his commitment, dedication, and capacity to support the Company in the long term, in pursuing its ambitious aspirations and providing much needed insurance protection to Sri Lankans.

March 13, 2023

8^th March 2023: AIA Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s Best Workplaces for women for five consecutive years (2018-2022) has dedicated the month of March to celebrate diversity across all strata of women, to reflect on progress made and to call for greater gender equality and inclusivity, not just in the company, but across the country. As usual, AIA celebrates International Women’s Day not just on the 08^th of March, but rather an entire month dedicated to recognize, honour and appreciate the role of the woman with a series of carefully curated line of events that are fun, inspirational and educational.

Last year, AIA together with IFC – under the IFC-DFAT Women in Work programme – launched ‘ඇය සුරකින AIA’ – a women’s programme that empowers women across the island and the Company will continue its endeavour to support women to be courageous, confident, to feel valued and appreciated, while ensuring to protect her and provide her with financial security.

Women everywhere want and deserve a future with equal rights and opportunities for all, free from stigma and stereotypes. At AIA Insurance, this is a serious mission. AIA provides numerous benefits for women employees and agents and continues to promote a culture of meritocracy with the aim of providing all employees fair and equal opportunities to bring out the best in them and support them to achieve their career aspirations.

AIA has taken many sustained efforts in this regard and ensured that the Company’s women employees are groomed and encouraged to take up senior leadership roles through a carefully curated unbiased career development process. As a result, today, 41% of AIA’s employees are women, 48% of the sales force are women and 52% among the top 100 high performers. 26% of AIA’s senior management are women with the Company’s women in insurance special roles including 69% in operations and 50% in actuarial. So, there is no limit to their potential.

While a gender inclusive work environment is encouraged, it is noteworthy that at AIA, International Men’s Day is also celebrated each year, to appreciate the strength men bring to all of us. The Company also revamped the ‘New Parents Support Scheme’ where both fathers and mothers can benefit from.

The Company’s commitment goes beyond their employees and extends to their customers, female entrepreneurs and the community as well. AIA is the only Company in Sri Lanka that has conducted a market study on the needs, preferences, and challenges of Sri Lankan women, in collaboration with IFC, to develop a holistic women-centric business strategy. Through the ‘ඇය සුරකින AIA’ platform, AIA hopes to further launch many initiatives for women including employees, agents, customers and community at large. AIA also recently partnered the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce (WCIC) to promote women entrepreneurship across the nation. Further, AIA’s She Protect a first-of-its-kind protection plan provides a higher protection cover to one of the most important customer segments in our market: women. ‘She Protect’ offers a range of optional benefits for women customers to personalise the protection they need based on their lifestyle and desires, for affordable premiums.

AIA is happy to celebrate the progress on diversity, equality and inclusivity, made thus far while not forgetting to keep working towards enabling respect, safety and opportunity for women not only at work but across the country.

February 21, 2023

19^th February 2023: AIA Insurance is happy to partner Lanka Alzheimer’s foundation in raising awareness on Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Sri Lanka is one of the fastest growing ageing populations in the Asian region and studies have estimated the rise in dementia cases to increase to almost half a million of the population by the year 2050. As a responsible corporate that aims to help communities live healthier, longer and better lives, AIA Insurance understands the risk of such diseases. To this end, AIA Insurance made a donation to LAF and extended their support to raise awareness on early detection and preventive measures of Alzheimer’s. This societal support is one amongst many contributions AIA has carried out and the company remains steadfast in their commitment towards the nation, the community and society at large.

LAF is the only organisation dedicated to advocating and addressing the needs of those diagnosed with cognitive impairment and dementia in Sri Lanka.

January 24, 2023

24th January 2023: AIA Insurance is delighted to announce its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Sasith Bambaradeniya, effective January 2023. With over 15 years of experience in marketing, communications, strategic planning and operations leadership, Sasith is a proven marketing leader who had spearheaded some notable and award-winning campaigns and disruptive innovation in the local insurance industry.

Sasith is no stranger to AIA Sri Lanka having commenced his career at the company as a Management Trainee, after which he accrued a unique combination of varied experiences across industries, the most recent being the CMO of Fairfirst Insurance Limited. With an appetite for creativity, empathy lead innovation and transformation, he brings to the table a diverse palate of experience and is expected to add flavour to AIA’s leadership and rich talent pool.

Sasith’s forte includes varied portfolios in product management, e-commerce, brand development and communications. He holds an MBA from the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM), University of Sri Jayewardenepura, and bachelor’s degree in Business, Major in Marketing and Management from the University of Newcastle, Australia.

AIA’s CEO Chathuri Munaweera said of the appointment, “Sasith is a highly experienced, talented young Marketing leader with a proven track record of building brands while leading successful customer and sales centric approaches to marketing. I am truly pleased that he joins team AIA Sri Lanka and the Executive Committee. With Sasith at the helm of Marketing and supported by our very able Marketing team, AIA will continue to be groundbreaking in brand leadership, unparalleled propositions and transformative marketing.

“I am delighted to join AIA’s strategic journey and growth ambitions” said Sasith, while committing to offer his best to the company; “Having started my career at AIA, it has always had a very special place in my heart as it provided me the ideal launch-pad to accelerate my career aspirations. I am thrilled to be back where it all started. Together with team AIA, I am committed to helping move the business forward and upwards whilst making a meaningful impact on communities across this beautiful island. AIA’s brand purpose; helping people live healthier, longer, better lives will be at the core of our engagements as we pioneer in transforming the traditional model of life insurance to one that is helping people live life to the fullest.

Older Posts

AIA Partnership Distribution Business Launch 2024

AIA Insurance advances expansion with new Regional Development Office (RDO) in Matara

AIA Achieves EDGE Assess Certification, Spearheading Diversity and Inclusion in Sri Lanka’s Insurance Sector

Commercial Bank and AIA Sri Lanka announce landmark exclusive bancassurance partnership.

AIA Sales Convention 2023: A recognition of excellence and superior customer service by AIA’s top performers

AIA’s Poson Safety Programme, marks Its 28th year with zero deaths and 3 lives saved

Upul Wijesinghe appointed to the AIA Sri Lanka Board of Directors

AIA reminds you to celebrate diversity today and EVERYDAY!

AIA partners Lanka Alzheimer’s Foundation (LAF) in support of raising awareness

Sasith Bambaradeniya joins AIA’s dynamic team of young leaders as Chief Marketing Officer