Revolution in the future history of Laksala

The current Director General / CEO Mr. Madhura De Silva and the Managment who initiate the renovation of Laksala Kandy Show Room will create a revolution in the future history of Laksala.

The Laksala Kandy showroom renovations in progress. Cost of renovations will be less than Rs 4million only which is a record breaking low cost in the history of Laksala for this type of renovation!! We  are optimizing internal resources for this renovation work. We are expecting a significant boost to the crafts sector after opening the Kandy showroom on 2 January 2020!!

A warm farewell to Laksala Chairman

Mr. Hamza receives a souvenir from Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/ Director General, Laksala

Laksala gave a  fondly farewell to Chairman Mr. Muhammed Hamza who is stepping down from his position as chair at Laksala. Mr. Hamza has been a pivotal member of Laksala for last fifteen months. He has shown a great leadership and made tremendous contribution to Laksala during his short period. Mr. Hamza brought all of his capabilities, along with deep strategic insight and managerial expertise, steered Laksala to be its best at his time. He has convened and championed to truly shape the future of Laksala  for its businesses, staff and handicraftsmen.

We thank Mr. Hamza for his boundless energy, hard work and dedication to handicrafts industry. Our outgoing chairman had also been actively involved in paying outstanding payments for our handicraftsmen and he always worked  for the betterment of Laksala employees.  He had  been enthusiastic figure throughout his time at Laksala. Mr. Muhammed Hamza  is leaving Laksala in a very good shape, with plans in place to grow Laksala steadily even in future too. Everyone at Laksala wishes him well in his future endeavours.

Top naval officials of HACGAM visit Laksala

The most senior naval officers attending the High Level Meeting (HLM) of 15th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies (HACGAM), which is hosted by Sri Lanka Coast Guard for the first time,  arrived in Laksala  at Thummulla today (10^th). A delegation of seventy five who are participating in the HLM which includes Asian Coast Guard Chiefs and high profile officials from Asian Maritime Law Enforcement Agencies.

Ideas to promote innovative tourism products in SL

Laksala exchanged ideas with Walkers Tours to promote innovative tourism products in the country  for the betterment of the Sri Lankan Handicrafts industry. Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/ Director General, Laksala and Mr. Prabath Harshakumar, Vice President,  Walkers Tours,  met each other in the Cinnamon Lakeside Commercial Complex recently to strengthen ties between two organizations and promote innovative tourism products. Ms. Shivanthi Kotage, Assistant Manager, Walkers Tours,  also participated in the discussion

Walkers Tours has been a leading tour operator in the Sri Lankan tourism industry for over 50 years, organizing Sri Lanka tours for holiday, individual adventurers, nature lovers, as well as for special interest, incentives holiday groups and convention delegates.

The celebration of World Tourism Day 2019

Mr. Sarath Ekanayake North Central Province Governor, the guest of honour of the exhibition to celebrate World Tourism Day 2019, visited  Laksala stall being held at Arcade Independence Square, Colombo 07 today (27th). Two day exhibition, which will end tomorrow, is organised by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. The governor posed for a photograph with Laksala staff too.

Jetwing Travels' cooperation to handicrafts industry

Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala and Mr. Bandula Withana, Deputy General Manager, Jetwing Travels, discussed new initiatives, strategies, specific challenges affecting the tourism industry, opportunities to enhance the social and economic impact of the sector and way forward to strengthen and promote tourism sector which will lead to  sustainability of the handicrafts industry.

This meeting was held yesterday (25th) at the Jetwing House, Colombo 02. Jetwing Travels  is a renowned Sri Lanka travel agents with years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry.

Laksala and Aitken Spence Travels shared ideas

Both Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala and Mr. Prasanjit Perera, Vice President, Aitken Spence Travels shared ideas of tourism sector in Sri Lanka and its current status, which will affect the  handicrafts industry, at the Aitken Spence Tower, Colombo 02, today (25th). 

Aitken Spence Travels, the leading tour operator in the island is  the number 1 DMC (Destination Management Company)  and leader among tour agents in Sri Lanka.

SLAITO reaffirms to boost handicrafts industry

Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) reiterates that its organization will be committed to uplifting the handicraft industry in Sri Lanka, said Wing Commander Kumuda Eramudugolla, Chief Operating Officer, SLAITO in a special discussion had with Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala at the SLAITO Secretariat, Colombo 02, today (24^th).

SLAITO  was formed by Destination Management Companies who have grouped together and created an association in order to lobby on behalf of DMC’s who receive foreign tourists to Sri Lanka. SLAITO is the most influential Association guiding and advising those policy makers in positioning Sri Lanka at the forefront of the global tourism arena.

President’s surprise visit to Laksala at Peradeniya

President Maithripala Sirisena made a surprise visit to Laksala showroom at Peradeniya this morning (22nd). President, who walked around the showroom, posed for a photograph with Laksala staff too.

Laksala will be a shopping point for Iranians

The leading Iranian travel agents endeavour to position Sri Lanka in the tourism generating markets as a preferred tourism destination  to promote various Sri Lankan products and to increase Sri Lanka’s share of the global tourism market.

Under above objectives, Iranian representatives visited Laksala at Thummulla today (21st) to find out handcraft products available for Iranians. In their opinion Laksala will be one of shopping centres for those who visit Sri Lanka from Iran in future.

Sri Lankan authorities undertook a series of promotional initiatives to minimize the negative impact of the Easter Sunday disaster  and to promote tourism to Sri Lanka. As a government entity Laksala also  produced  an awareness campaign through its social media on the theme “ Promoting Tourism”. A cultural event "Heritage to Future" was organized by Laksala  last month to promote tourism too.

Heritage to Future” T-shirt and Skinny in White

“Heritage to Future” high quality cotton gents T-shirt and Skinny, new product range designed,  is available only at Laksala. This was introduced at the Heritage to Future Cultural event which was held at Laksala, Thummulla to promote tourism in Sri Lanka.

T-shirt and Skinny are available at Laksala showrooms in different sizes.

Heritage to Future” T-shirt and Skinny in Black

“Heritage to Future” high quality cotton gents T-shirt and Skinny, new product range designed,  is available only at Laksala. This was introduced at the Heritage to Future Cultural event which was held at Laksala, Thummulla to promote tourism in Sri Lanka.

T-shirt and Skinny are available at Laksala showrooms in different sizes.

SOEs can be operated by effectively and efficiently

Currently State owned enterprises (SOEs) in Sri Lanka are going through issues due to a lack of vision and corporate strategies to achieve goals and objectives. More than everything, the tone at the top does not demonstrate honesty and ethical behavior when conducting its operations. SOEs need to be governed by a strong Board and be led by a Chairman with extensive business acumen and who could demonstrate commitment to honesty, ethical strength, reliability, and fairness through action.

 Laksala’s current Chairman (Mr. Muhammed Hamza) and the Board which comprises with representative from the Treasury and the Line Ministry have set the tone by defining management’s leadership and commitment towards openness, honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior.

Laksala’s Chairman is adopting all best practices in the corporate sector to ensure it run as a profitable organization which functions with a set of processes to create, communicate and deliver value to the customers and manage customer relationships so as to benefit the organization and the stakeholders.  

SOEs that are carrying out commercial operations are provided with all the support by the Treasury and the Government Auditors. Treasury officials and the Government Auditor understand the nature and type of the operations the SOEs are conducting. However, if the management team is weak and if they do not lead by example, then the SOEs are unable to comply with the required laws and regulations by the Government. Nobody can blame red tapes and the auditors for inefficiencies in SOEs. If the management is planning its activities, identify and manage risks, the SOEs can be operated by effectively and efficiently by complying with laws and regulations.

Many SOEs do not have standard operating procedures (SOPs), due to this boards who get appointed through the ministry with political changes, do conduct operations according to their whims and fancies. Therefore the best course of action the SOEs should adopt is to appoint SLIDA to draft SOPs for the SOEs. Laksala has taken initiatives to appoint SLIDA to draft its SOPs already.

Further, when state owned enterprises initiate and attempt to operate with a vision by devising strategies to execute the corporate goals and objectives, the external forces especially the competitors attempt to sabotage the internal operations and bring disrepute to the organization by applying all hostile methods. It is true that SOEs conduct its operations under strict guidelines with many red tapes. However, when SOEs are carrying out commercial operations and taking initiatives to run as a corporate by adopting best practices, the internal and external forces who cannot withstand change suddenly remember all guidelines and taking action to remind the management and general public of all such guidelines to sabotage the operations.

I strongly believe that all SOEs in Sri Lanka should appoint Chairmen and Boards with business acumen to run the operations with a clear long term vision with properly laid down corporate plans. Further, the policies related to human resources (HR), especially performance evaluation should be KPI driven and not to adopt departmental and ministry HR practices to SOEs.

By Madhura De Silva, CEO/ Director General, Laksala

Dynamic team worked together at Heritage to Future

 The team worked for the success of Heritage to Future, a cultural show held at Laksala, Thummulla on 24^th This month. The staff members of Laksala with a good team spirit  leads to achieve a common goal of taking the industry forward.

Heritage to Future begins for the first time at Laksala

Heritage to Future, a cultural show was declared open  at the end of the Summer Camp for school children on 24^th evening at Laksala Premises,  Colombo 07. As a chief guest Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry & Commerce, Resettlement of Protracted Displaced Persons, Co-operative Development, Vocational Training & Skills Development participated in this event. Heritage to Future” is  a free cultural show for both locals and foreigners. In this event, Laksala demonstrated art and craft making activities for tourists to get some flavour of experiential tourism. The tea tasting and traditional medicinal experiences, which were being carried out, was a unique experience for tourists. Those who attended this show appreciated these free activities which they did not experience from anywhere else in Sri Lanka. 

The free Summer Camp for school children is organized by Laksala in collaboration with National Crafts Council to ‘make your own craft’. This summer camp offered hands-on experiential learning, help students  build a unique Interest, leads to express  their creativity, allow  for a deep dive into new skills and help with mental stimulation & physical activity from 20th to 24th this month.

Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala, Ms. Heshani Bogollagama, Chairperson of National Crafts Council, officials from Laksala  and National Crafts Council and distinguished guests were present in the show.  

Getting ready for Heritage to Future on the final day

Children at the Summer Camp is ready for Heritage to Future, a cultural show to be open soon.

The final day of the Summer Camp at Laksala

Children who were in the Summer Camp are diligent even on the last day too.   They are preparing their crafts for Heritage to Future, Cultural Show.  

Summer Camp day 04 continues with extreme weather

Children are keen on engaging in activities at Summer Camp  amidst adverse weather condition. Tomorrow will be the last day of the Summer Camp followed by Heritage to Future Cultural show which will start at 5.00pm at Laksala, Thummulla.   

Rain failed to cease Summer Camp day 03

Children at Summer Camp, which has been conducted at Laksala, Thummulla, attended to continue their day 03 programme  amid heavy rain today (22^nd). 

Day 02 in the Handicrafts Summer Camp at Laksala

Today is the day 02 of the Summer Camp, which is jointly organized by Laksala and National Crafts Council, at Thummulla from 20^th to 24th August 2019.

The Summer camp for school children begins

First time in Sri Lanka, a Free Summer Camp for school children was declared open this morning (20^th) at Laksala Premises, No 215, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07. As a chief guest Hon. Buddhika Pathirana, State Minister of Industry & Commerce, Resettlement of Protracted Displaced Persons, Co-operative Development, Vocational Training & Skills Development participated in this event with a group of foreign delegates.

This  five day free cams ,which  runs  from 20th to 24th this month, was organized by Laksala in collaboration with National Crafts Council. Materials and trainers will be provided for students free of charge . This summer camp will offer hands-on experiential learning, help students  build a unique Interest, leads to express  their creativity, allow  for a deep dive into new skills and help with mental stimulation & physical activity.

New external appearance at Laksala Fort Showroom

Laksala focuses on the external presentation of its showrooms to ensure there are satisfied customers inside. Business based on physical presence, which heavily influences customers’ decisions, whether or not to shop at a location. Outside appearance is important in selecting a store to shop.

Laksala’s  retail makeovers are tapping into a new demand from customers: for showrooms to put its appearance and atmosphere first. The Laksala Management considers that when it comes to shopping, a store’s outside ambience is more important. Accordingly, Laksala management guarantees that the environment of showroom’s location is consistent with its target customers’ expectations.

Laksala has developed the external presentation of its showrooms as part of overall marketing efforts. This is the prime result at Laksala Fort Showroom. Customers avoid places of business based on its external appearance, which could drastically impact bottom line of the business entity. So what Laksala can do is to ensure its customers return and have a positive impression.

Laksala and wow.lk form a business relationship

Laksala has entered into an agreement with the wow.lk  as a business partner. Accordingly Laksala products are available on https://www.wow.lk/mall/m/laksala-stores/laksalastores/. Anyone could now purchase locally-made high quality batik wear, handicrafts and gifts on wow.lk. which became the leading ecommerce platform in Sri Lanka under retail service according to the independent survey conducted by the 16th edition of Brand Finance Sri Lanka (2019) office.  Brand Finance  is the world’s leading independent band valuation and strategy consultancy in London

We have identified customer needs when it comes to handicrafts and accordingly we took this initiative to promote handicrafts through e-commerce to make handicrafts accessible to every corner of the world said, Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala. He further added; Digital and mass production had attracted a high customer demand for handmade products.  People want to see human interaction and effort in products they buy; People want to see products that are made with intentional love with human interaction; People want to see products which are inspired by the nature; and People want to ensure the authenticity of the products.

Presence of a large number of craftsmen who are hailing from a rich history of art and culture with more than 2500 years is the leading“comparative advantage” for Sri Lankan Handicrafts sector over other countries. Eg:- wood carvings, sculptures etc. Products which has unique production technologies and raw materials with endemic materials will be our “absolute advantage” by virtue of having these production technologies and resources. Eg:- rush and reed, local handlooms, Sri Lankan Batik etc.

We trust that every household in the world will buy handicrafts for their daily needs. In future we will promote handicrafts based on the needs that have been identified through empirical research carried out by us, Mr. Silva said.

Officials from Laksala and wow.lk posed for photographs after the agreement. From left: Miss .V. Divya Darsheni (Category Executive - Fashion), wow.lk, Ms. Thashma Haththotuwegama ( Senior Category Manager), wow.lk,  Mr. Reza Aniff - Chief Commercial Officer),wow.lk, Mr. Samantha Mallawaarachchi-Manager (Business Development), Laksala, Mr. Kelum Jayawardena-Director (Sales), Laksala, Mr. Allan Delilkan, Acting Director (Finance), Laksala,  Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala, and ,Dr. Nushad M Perera, Chief Executive Officer, wow.lk.

Fifteen million delivered to suppliers at Laksala

Fifty handicraftsmen who supply handicrafts to Laksala received an outstanding payment of Rs: 15 million in a special event held at Laksala Katubadda recently. Mr. Muhammed Hamza, Chairmn, Laksala who attended the event as a chief guest delivered cheques to handicraftsmen. 

Laksala management headed by the chairman took drastic measures to pay supplier payments in order to encourage handicraftsmen and  uplift handicrafts industry which was seriously affected by the Easter Sunday bombings occurred in April this year.

Mr. Madura De Silv, CEO/Director General, Mr. Allan Delilkan, Acting Director (Finance), Ms. Vajira Samararatne, Deputy Director (Purchasing),   Ms. Devika Athukorala, Assistant Director (Distribution) and Laksala staff were also present on the occasion.

Laksala wishes a very happy and peaceful Eid al-Adha

Eid-ul Adha is an occasion for us to remember the sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim made in obedience to the will of God. It is a festival celebrated among Muslims worldwide. Islam means peace and submission to the will of God. The spirit of the Eid al-Adha would help them cherish the freedoms won through much sacrifice.

Eid ul-Adha or Eidul Azha coincides with the completion of the annual holy pilgrimage Hajj. Muslims living in Sri Lanka today enjoy the freedoms of religious belief, worship and practice. Laksala extends greetings to the Islamic community in Si Lanka

Global marketing of handicrafts through SL diplomats

Laksala is  initiating global marketing of handicrafts through the newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners said Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala at the orientation programme for Ambassadors / High Commissioners designate held at the auditorium of the Ministry of Foreign affairs  today (07th).

Summer Camp and Heritage to Future 2019 at Laksala

Laksala focuses on products at Yugayata Nimavum

Mr. Silva, Ms. Athukorala and Ms. Samararathne are eagerly checking the quality of products 

Laksala was  paying close attention to novel handicraft designs at “Yugayaka Nimaum 2019”  which  exhibits the talents of local artisans and facilitate new market opportunism . On behalf of  Laksala, Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General,  Ms. Vajira  Samararathne, Deputy Director (Purchasing) and  Ms. Devika Athukorala, Assistant Director (Distribution),  looked for new designs at the event. Products chosen at this exhibition will be introduced to both local and foreign markets. This annual exhibition, which has been continuously organized by National Design Center,  was held at the  City Center, Kandy recently.

Laksala CEO/DG at the Certificate Award Ceremony

Craftsmen participated on the new design training programme received certificates from Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala CEO/Director General at the Certificate Award Ceremony of “Yugayata Nimavum 2019” which was  held at the City Center, Kandy recently. 

This annual exhibition, which  aims to display  attractive new handicrafts products from local craftsmen,  is continuously organized by National Design Center. The programme comprises of a variety of traditional items for sale

This was held under the patronage of  Hon. Buddhika Pathirana, State Minister of Industry & Commerce, Resettlement of Protracted Displaced Persons, Co-operative Development and Vocational Training & Skills Development .Web: www.laksala.gov.lk

Laksala at “Yugayata Nimavum 2019”

Laksala participated in the Yugayaka Nimaum 2019, the Handicrafts New Design Exhibition held at the City Center, Kandy recently.  Representing Laksala  Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General attended the event. This annual exhibition, which  aims to display  attractive new handicrrfts products from local craftsmen,  is continuously organized by National Design Center. This programme comprises of a variety of traditional items for sale

This was held under the patronage of  Hon. Buddhika Pathirana, The State Minister of Industry & Commerce, Resettlement of Protracted Displaced Persons, Co-operative Development and Vocational Training & Skills Development .

Web: www.laksala.gov.lk

Special religious blessing ceremony at Laksala

Special religious ceremony was held today (31st)  at Laksala Thummulla to bless Laksala, its staff and suppliers. The programme was conducted in a manner where all religious blessings were summoned with the presence of Buddhists monks, members of clergy of Hindu, Islam and Catholic faiths. Before the ceremony began, flowers and gilanpasa were offered to Lord Buddha’s statue located on Thummulla premises and the five precepts (Pansil) were observed.

The ceremony commenced with the placing of the sacred relics at the special dais by Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General  of Laksala. After Pirith chanting, other religious prayers were conducted. Firstly blessed strings (Pirith Nool) and Pirith Pan (Pirith Water) were offered to Laksala staff and suppliers by Buddhists monks and subsequently , members of clergy of Hindu and Catholic faiths blessed Laksala staff and suppliers individually. Soon after the religious observances were over, a special morning treatment was  offered to those who attended the event.

Mr. Muhammed Hamza, Chairmn, Mr. C. N. Dahanayake, Director (Admin), Mr. Palitha Pathirana ,Chief Internal Audit, Mr. Kelum Jayawardena, Director (Sales), Mr. Allan Delilkan, Acting Director (Finance), Ms. Vajira Somaratne, Deputy Director (Purchasing), Ms. Devika Kumari, Assistant Director (Distribution),  a large number of Laksala Staff and suppliers  were present at the occasion.

Two legendary firms signed MoU to promote tourism

Laksala and Ebert Silva Holidays (Pvt) Ltd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in a bid to promote tourism. The signing of the MoU with Ebert Silva Holidays (Pvt) will be instrumental in strengthening cooperation in tourism. Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala and  and Ms. Rajini De Silva Mendis, Chairperson, Ebert Silva Holidays (Pvt) Ltd signed the MoU yesterday (19th) at Laksala, Colombo 07.

Laksala presents a souvenir to the acting minister

Mr. Buddhika Pathirana, the Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, Resettlement, Co-operative Development and Vocational Training and Skills Development, who participated as the chief guest in the opening ceremony of the newly renovated Laksala purchasing center at Polgolla was presented a special souvenir by Ms. Vajira Somaratne, Deputy Director (Purchasing),

Mr. C. N. Dahanayake, Director (Admin), Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Mr. Allan Delilkan, Acting Director (Finance), Ms. Devika Kumari, Assistant Director (Distribution) are also in the picture.

Laksala team at the opening ceremony held at Polgolla

Laksala staff, who participated in the opening ceremony of the newly renovated purchasing center at Polgolla, are as follows.

From the left: Mr. Kelum Jayawardena-Director (Sales), Mr. Samantha Mallawaarachchi-Manager (Business Development), Mr. Palitha Pathirana-Chief Internal Audit, Mr. C. N. Dahanayake-Director (Admin), Mr. M. M. Vimal-Assistant Manager(Admin), Mr. Allan Delilkan-Acting Director (Finance), Mr. Sunil Rajapaksha-Sales Assistant, Mr. Madhura De Silva- CEO/Director General, Ms. Priyanka Pushpakumari-Assistant Manager (Distribution), Ms. Vajira Samararathne- Deputy Director (Purchasing), Ms. Dilini Nadeeshani- Senior Computer Operator, Ms. Ivonne Cooray-Manager (Purchasing), Ms. Devika Kumari- Assistant Director (Distribution) and Ms.Sumithra Nissanka- Senior Sales Assistant.

This team completed the project of resurrecting the dysfunctional central province collection centre 10 days prior to CEO/Director Genera’s deadline. One of the greatest achievements is  Mr. Silva as the CEO/ Director General  of Laksala  strengthens the team spirit and solidarity through tangible projects.

Laksala purchasing center at Polgolla declared open

The newly renovated  building at Polgolla was inaugurated as a Laksala purchasing center in the central province by Mr. Buddhika Pathirana, the Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, Resettlement, Co-operative Development and Vocational Training and Skills Development recently. Handicraftsmen living in the Central province could easy reach this  purchasing center at Polgolla with their products rather than coming to Colombo which cost money and time. Dozens of handicraftsmen arrived in Polgolla to handover their products  to new center.  Mr. Madhura De Silva,  CEO/Director General, senior officials and other staff at Laksala participated in this event.

HACGAM officials from Asia visit Laksala

Top naval officials from 17 countries participating in the High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the 15th Heads  of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) in Sri Lanka arrived in Laksala , Thummulla today (11th) for shopping.Many of 35 Officers  who visited Sri Lanka for the first time  were delighted with handicrafts at Laksala.  Visitors purchased gems, batik and handloom clothing, tea, SPA, spices , wooden products and souvenirs.  

It is the first time Sri Lanka Coast Guard hosting this multilateral meeting .The HACGAM is a high-level multilateral meeting of Coast Guards and Maritime Law Enforcement agencies to ensure safe, secure and cleaner seas in the Asian region which originated through the initiatives of Japan in 2004. The meeting is considered to be one of the main events in the regional maritime law enforcement calendar.

Mr. Mangesh Keerthisena on Wehesa Niwana Hawasa

Mr. Mangesh Keerthisena, who has been working  for Laksala at Thummulla Branch,  participated in a special radio programme  at China Radio International in June 2019.

Handicraftsmen received a Rs: 25 Million payment

Thirty handicraftsmen who supply handicrafts to Laksala received an outstanding payment of Rs: 25 million in a special event held at Laksala Katubadda today(28). Mr. Muhammed Hamza, Chairmn, Laksala attended the event as a chief guest and delivered cheques to handicraftsmen.

Laksala management took drastic measures to pay supplier payments in order to uplift handicrafts industry which was seriously affected by the Easter Sunday bombings occurred in April this year.

Mr. Madura De Silv, CEO/Director General, Mr. Kelum Jayawardena ,Director (Sales), Ms. Vajira Samararatne, Deputy Director (Purchasing) and Laksala staff were also present on the occasion.

Laksala strives for the betterment of handicraftsmen

Mr. Madhura De Silva is addressing handicraftsmen at the event

Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/ Director General, Laksala explained Laksala’s new strategy to work for the betterment of local handicraftsmen at  a special event, which was organized by the National Craft council to educate craftsmen about the Shilpa Abhimani Exhibition and Competition, held at the ministry’s auditorium recently.

“Laksala now moves forward positively  with new vision under new leadership. We assure as a responsible government organization, we will do everything to uplift the handicraft sector in Sri Lanka. We have open our doors for creative products which could attract both local and foreign customers. We guarantee that L:aksala stands with our handicraftsmen shoulder to shoulder” said Mr. Silva.

                                           

Mr. Buddhika Pathirana, the acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, Co-operative Development, Vocational Training & Skills Development, senior officials of the ministry and handicraftsmen in western province also participated in the event.

We enjoy shopping at Laksala as Sri Lanka is safe

While doing some shopping Italians tourists posed for a photograph 

A group of Italian tourists visited Laksala at Thummulla this morning (11th) did the shopping as they pleased. They were delighted with products  that they bought. This was the first time they visited to purchase handicrafts in Sri Lanka during their tour. They felt that they were very much safe in Sri Lanka after the security measures taken by the Sri Lankan government following the Easter Sunday attack occurred in April this year.

Meanwhile, the warning against travel to Sri Lanka has been withdrawn by countries in the European Union. Italy is also one of the members in   European Union. Sri Lanka  is now regarded as low risk, meaning that  travellers in Italy are allowed to travel in Sri Lanka. As a result of that these tourists arrived in Sri Lanka.They recommend Sri Lanka as a beautiful and safe island for those who are willing to travel.

Notice of Laksala Office Relocation

We are pleased to inform you that supply Chain division along with the central warehouse has been relocated from the rented Havelock office to our own building at Katubadda with immediate effect from 1 June 2019 onwards. Finance and other back office functions are being relocated to the head office- Thummulla.

This initiative will bring cost savings up to Rs 10 million per annum and this money could be utilized to pay our artisans and craftsmen. We look forward to your continued support. We will strive to provide the excellent service in appreciation of your support.
- Laksala Management -

How Diplomats can help the handicraft industry in SL

Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala addressing Ambassadors and High Commissioners

Handicrafts could be promoted by Sri Lankan diplomats, who are going to assume duties in our overseas missions. Promoting of locally made handicrafts will uplift the handicraftsmens’ standard of living, said Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala at the orientation programme for Ambassadors / High Commissioners designate held at Lakshman Kadiragamar Institute yesterday (07th). Mr. Silva was one of seven panelists for the discussion on “Enhancing Sri Lanks’s Image” organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and he delivered a presentation  on “How mission can promote Sri Lanka’s handicrafts industry”.

Continuing presentation Laksala CEO/Director General further added ” as a self funded government entity we are working very hard for the betterment of the handicrafts industry . These skilled and talented craftsmen living in  every part of Sri Lanka produce their stuff for Laksala. They are doing their jobs with many challenges. Some of handicrafts like Lacquer work (Laksha) are unique to Sri Lanka and cannot be found anywhere in the world. As the largest handicrafts chain which has 12 showrooms around Sri Lanka , Laksaka fulfills the needs of the nation. Laklsala is the marketing platform of handicraftsmen".

“As  a responsible government institute we are going to launch a digital marketing platform to sell handicrafts online. No matter where you live, you could purchase handicrafts from Laksala via online.    We make a fair trade  for our  handicraftsmen. Foreigners frequently visit our showrooms and purchase handicrafts . Not limited to Sri Lanka our responsibility today is open the international market for handicraft industry.  If we can promote our handicrafts through our foreign mission, it would be a great help for development of the industry”  

Ambassadors / High Commissioners designate to USA , Austria,  Singapore, The Philippines, Indonesia, Bahrain, U.A.E., Belgium, Oman, Thailand, The Netherland and turkey along with  officers will assume duties in  Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Nepal Vietnam and Cuba in senior positions participated in the event.

Eid Mubarak to all Muslims in Sri Lanka

Laksala extends heartiest greetings to all Muslims in Sri Lanka celebrating Ramadan festival today marking the end of the holy month. Ramadan reminds spiritual reflection, improvement, devotion, worship and humanity. Entire Muslim community in our society has been practicing mutual respect, equality, sacrifice and helping the poor during the month of Ramadan.

No matter what faith of beliefs we are following, it is  importance for us to join hands with all communities in Sri Lanka to build a better country for all Sri Lankans. May the blessings lead to our Sri Lankan Muslim community to have a prosperous and peaceful Eid al- Fitr.

Laksala made suppliers payments in Galle

  Suppliers receive payments from Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General and  Mr. Kelum Jayawardena, Director (Sales)

Laksala management took drastic measures to  pay supplier payments in order to uplift handicrafts industry which was seriously affected by the Easter Sunday bombings occurred in April this year. Dozens of suppliers who gathered in  the auditorium of Bope-Poddala Pradeshiya Sabha, Kalegana in Galle recently under the patronage of Mr. Dilruk Abeykoon, Chairman, Bope-Poddala Pradeshiya Sabha, received payments for their handicrafts from  Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General,  Laksala and Mr. Kelum Jayawardena, Director (Sales), Laksala.

The handicrafts industry in the country is  mainly  linked to the tourism sector which fell sharply after the April blasts. Those who produce handicrafts became helpless when they could not sell their products. At that time Laksala came forward to support and encourage  handicraftsmen by giving their payments under the direct supervision of Mr. Muhammed Hamza, Chairmn, Laksala.

Welcome to Laksala Batik Designs and Show

Laksala on a handicraft village visit

Both Mr. Silva and Mr. Jayawardena are smoothing the carved surface of a statue 
under the supervision of Craftsman Damith

Mr. Madhura De Silva, CEO/Director General, Laksala made a visit to Bope-Poddala handicraft village on 24th this month to motivate handicraftsmen and show his solidarity. He praised local craftsmen for producing high quality crafts and urged to disseminate knowledge about producing crafts to next generation for the betterment of handicrafts industry.

Mr. Silva made these remarks with Mr. Kelum Jayawardena, Director (Sales), Laksala after a special meeting held at the auditorium of Bope-Poddala Pradeshiya Sabha, Kalegana in Galle under the patronage of Mr. Dilruk Abeykoon, Chairman, Bope-Poddala Pradeshiya Sabha.

Bope Poddala handicraft village is famous for producing traditional crafts such as Lord Buddha statues, God statues, elephants and souvenir items in various designs. Both Laksala CEO/Director General and Director (Sales) were very impressed by creativity and quality of crafts already designed there.

These two Laksala officials did not forget to have hands on experience of making a craft in the workshop, which belongs to craftsmen Mr. Dhamith Nilantha, in the handicraft village.

Sri Lanka is safe for foreign tourists

“We stress that it is safe to travel to Sri Lanka after the horrendous terrorist attack taken place last month. As Australians we are proudly recommending Sri Lanka as one of the best tourist destinations. Please come and see this beautiful island” said Mr. Geoff Hartin and Ms. Stacey Moffitt.

Mr. Hartin and Ms. Moffitt are
delighted with the item they purchased

Halfway through the holiday this Aussies couple visited Laksala Galle branch yesterday (24th) for shopping. In an exclusive interview with Laksala, “We arrived in the this country after tragic incident. A disaster could happen at any time anywhere. Sri Lanka also faced the same. However, this country is still safe for foreign tourists. Sri Lankans are genuinely interested in tourists. People here are so friendly because they tend to remain positive.” told Mr. Hartin.

Mr. Geoff Hartin and Ms. Stacey Moffitt.

“First time we came to Sri Lanka and visited Sigiriya, Kandy, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Minneriya and Galle. Sri Lanka is renowned for its epic scenes of nature, dazzling history and culture. We are very pleased with security measures taken by the government to ensure the safety and security of tourists. Therefore, we have no fear of travelling in Sri Lanka. We believe that Sri Lanka will be bouncing back resiliently ” Ms. Moffitt added.

In the mean time, the Sri Lankan government already promised to ensure the safety and security of tourists with new security measures put in place after the Easter Sunday suicide bombings. Sri Lankan military forces and police brought the situation under control by this time and cleared doubt on the security and ability to provide necessary security support to the tourism industry. All these efforts are taken by the government in lieu of safeguard the tourism industry.