Avurudu Ulela at Hambantota International Port

Fasmin Jayah, Accounts Assistant and Henry Liu, Executive, Commercial and Marketing of Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) were judged Avurudu Kumari and Avurudu Kumaraya at the Sinhala and Tamil new year festivities at the port this year.

The Hambantota International Port (HIP) Avurudu celebrations were held in traditional style, at the port premises with all Sri Lankan and Chinese staff members participating. The event named ‘Nav Thote Avurudu Ulela’ was filled with all the usual New Year activities and a grand dinner for all stakeholders providing services to the port followed. The festivities ended with a colourful fireworks display during which the company distributed ice-cream to the surrounding community.

“It was heartening to see all our employees come together to celebrate this important occasion after a four-year hiatus. We could not hold the event because of the various security and health-related risks in the country. As a company that respects local culture, celebrating the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a key employee engagement event on our calendar. I am pleased to note that this year’s celebrations were conducted with utmost dedication, showcasing Sri Lankan traditional customs, and arranging various traditional new year games, which were enjoyed by everyone,” says Johnson Liu, CEO of HIPG.

Given the current economic downturn experienced in the country, HIP distributed dry ration packs to all direct and outsourced employees. The distribution was done for the fourth consecutive year.

The Avurudu kumaraya, with 1st and 2nd runners up pose with CEO Johnson Liu. Standing left to right: 1st place - Henry Liu; Executive-Commercial and Marketing; 2nd place - Charaka Rupasinghe; DGM-Marine Services; CEO, HIPG; 3rd place - Kavindu Abeysuriya; Junior Executive-Corporate Affairs.

The Avurudu kumari, with 1st and 2nd runners up pose with CEO Johnson Liu. Standing left to right: 3rd place - Doris Ao; Accounts Officer - Finance; 2nd place: Dilini Mahanama; Junior Executive - Energy Services; CEO, HIPG; winner Fasmin Jayah, Accounts Assistant.

Johnson Liu, CEO of HIPG with staff at the Avurudu gama.

Johnson Liu, CEO of HIPG enjoying some authentic Avurudu delicacies.