Sri Lankans Abroad Lead Massive Rebuilding Effort

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts following the recent cyclone, landslides, and floods have received a major boost, with Rs. 1.89 billion already contributed by well-wishers, businesses, and Sri Lankans living overseas.

This marks a significant increase from the previous figure of Rs. 700 million, according to Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance.

Speaking on the progress of the Rebuilding Sri Lanka initiative, Dr. Suriyapperuma revealed that contributions have poured in from nearly 30 countries, led by the USA, followed by Australia, UK, Italy, France, Korea, and Germany, among others.

“Based on the details we could see the highest amount based on the today's record has come from USA followed by Australia, the second highest number and then further inflows are, the next inflow is from UK, again followed by support that we are receiving from well-wishers and Sri Lankans who are living there, Sri Lankan citizens and supporters is through Italy, France, Korea and again a lot of support I mean that the order is to be finalized but Germany, a lot of support receiving from Germany also we can see in the list. Similarly many other countries, list of countries including Czech Republic, Cambodia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mauritius, Thailand, Jordan, Finland, Netherlands, likewise many many countries or citizens, Sri Lankans, well-wishers, businesses, organizations and families living in those countries have come forward to support this rebuilding exercise,” he said.

In addition to financial support, the Insurance Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (IRCSL) has partnered with insurance providers to simplify claims processes for affected households and businesses.

Measures include fast-tracking smaller claims, enabling over-the-counter settlements, and ensuring partial payments for larger claims to help people resume economic activities quickly.