In response to the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah, The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce has been actively supporting national relief and recovery operations in collaboration with the Government of Sri Lanka, key partners, and its members.
As a co-chair of the Sri Lanka Preparedness Partnership (SLPP) alongside the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), the Ceylon Chamber together with Janathakshan, played a central role in coordinating emergency response efforts, ensuring rapid and efficient assistance to affected communities. From 28 November to 6 December 2025, the Chamber mobilised volunteers across the Chamber Secretariat, member companies MAS Capital Pvt. Ltd – Intimates Division, Aitken Spence PLC, and university student groups, contributing more than 190 hours of service and answering over 40,000 emergency assistance requests to support the DMC’s 24-hour Emergency Operations Center.
The Chamber also provided support to the DMC for the Rapid Disaster Needs Assessment (RDNA), assisting with data analysis of calls received and the development of the direct community needs component of the RDNA, which informed government planning and coordination of relief distribution.
With the generous support of its member companies, the Ceylon Chamber facilitated the collection and handing over of financial aid and essential relief items to affected areas. The Chamber is deeply appreciative of Aitken Spence PLC, BASF Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.. CDK Philip Hospital, Central Finance Company PLC, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Devi Trading Company, Eastern Merchants PLC, Emar Pharma Pvt. Ltd., Finagle Lanka Pvt.Ltd., H Connect International Pvt. Ltd., Hemas Manufacturing (Pvt) Ltd., John Keells-Cinnamon Life, John Keells Holdings, John Keells Properties, Lakdhanavi, Lauke Shipping, Oxford College of Business, Perera & Sons, Shanthi Textile, Union Assurance PLC, Union Bank of Colombo PLC, Walkers Tours, Wealthtrust Securities Ltd., and a large number of private donors, both individuals and companies, for heeding the nation’s call, supporting communities and industries hardest hit by Cyclone Ditwah, and contributing to ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts across the country.
Beyond immediate relief, the Chamber continues to support preparedness initiatives ahead of the North East Monsoon Season 2025, reinforcing resilience and readiness across the country.
“We are deeply grateful to our member companies and volunteers for stepping up in this critical time – demonstrating once again that the private sector has and will continue to play a strong and supportive role in ensuring stability and sustainability for Sri Lanka at all times’, said Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the Ceylon Chamber.