The state-owned banking giant, People’s Bank welcomed 2008 with an official ceremony in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Public Administration. The main ceremony, held at the Head Office at Colombo 02, was presided over by Mr. W. Karunajeewa, Chairman, and Mr. Asoka de Silva, Chief Executive Officer/General Manager of the Bank.

The ceremony began with the hoisting of the national flag by Mr. W. Karunajeewa, Chairman, while the People’s Bank flag was hoisted by Mr. Asoka de Silva. This was followed by the singing of the national anthem and the Bank anthem, and the lighting of the traditional oil lamp.

A point of great motivation was the reading of the Pledge of Service by all members of staff, led by the CEO/GM. Addressing all People’s Bank employees, past and present, Mr. W. Karunajeewa thanked everyone for their hard work that has brought the Bank to its current level of success. He praised them for their loyalty, humanity and strength in adversity, and valued their service, in terms of its contribution to the national economy. Commenting that 2008 would be a challenging year, he went on to say that it is important to work with commitment, and to understand their weaknesses and skills, in order to adapt themselves to the changing world of today.

On a multi-religious note, the religious associations of the bank organized Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic and Catholic ceremonies to herald the New Year.