Sri Lankan company leaders demonstrate expertise as sustainability champions at Asia and Oceania regional event Forward Faster Now by UN Global Compact

The UN Global Compact regional flagship event Forward Faster Now|Asia & Oceania held in Kuala Lumpur on 5-6 August was a significant milestone for sustainable business action in the region. Organized by the United Nations Global Compact in collaboration with 16 Global Compact Country Networks and Country Offices, the event brought together high-level executives, government leaders, and sustainability experts from across Asia and Oceania. The event aimed to accelerate sustainable business practices, build partnerships, and highlight impactful stories of corporate sustainability. Sri Lankan business leaders actively participated in the event, showcasing their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustainable development. Nine distinguished speakers from Sri Lanka s private sector delivered a strong message to the global community, asserting that the country s private sector is a leader in the sustainability space. The Sri Lankan panellists discussed various issues, including food systems, gender equality, sustainable finance, and the role of Global Compact Network Boards in championing SDG engagement, corporate governance, and sustainable innovation. They shared their expertise, offered actionable insights, and showcased how their organizations contribute to advancing sustainable development across Asia and Oceania. Key panels featured Sri Lankan business leaders such as Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC Chairman Sharhan Muhseen, who discussed sustainable finance, and Jetwing Travels Ltd. Chairman and Managing Director Shiromal Cooray, who shared strategies for achieving gender equality in senior management. Dr. Ravi A. Fernando represented Sri Lanka in a session on Global Compact Network Boards, while MAS Holdings Head of Social Sustainability Amanthi Perera spoke about SDG Stocktake in the Asia and Oceania region. The strong presence of Sri Lankan business leaders at the event affirmed the country s commitment to sustainable development and its growing influence in shaping regional sustainability practices. Their participation showcased Sri Lanka s progress while contributing to a rich,

Source: ft.lk
Published on 2024-10-06