The Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC), Sri Lanka, has been named one of the Region II (Asia-Pacific) Champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026, recognising its innovative initiatives in emergency mobility coordination and road safety.
The announcement was made at the FIA Asia-Pacific Congress in Boracay, Philippines, by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motorsport and an international federation representing mobility organisations.
The AAC received recognition for two projects: AAC Mobility Lifeline, launched in response to Cyclone Ditwah, and Solar-Guard, a solar-powered advanced warning system designed to improve road safety in high-risk locations.
Developed following Cyclone Ditwah in November 2025, the AAC Mobility Lifeline initiative transformed the organisation’s 24-hour call centre into a national mobility coordination hub. As emergency calls increased by 200%, the initiative helped road users, rescue teams and people fleeing affected areas navigate flooded roads and landslides safely.
The response involved 60 staff members, more than 135 volunteers and 50 vehicles. The AAC also mobilised its network of over 160 accredited garages, highlighting the importance of collaboration between local partners in strengthening national disaster response and recovery efforts.
In a further contribution to recovery initiatives, the AAC has donated Rs. 25 million to the President’s Fund to support the Government’s Clean Sri Lanka policy in assisting people affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
The organisation’s second recognised initiative, Solar-Guard, focuses on improving road safety in hazardous areas where poor visibility increases the risk of accidents. Developed in collaboration with the Road Development Authority, the system uses solar-powered LED warning lights to alert motorists to potential dangers.
Designed to operate autonomously around the clock, Solar-Guard provides visual warnings without relying on the electricity grid. The initiative aims to improve driver awareness, reduce accident risks and deliver a sustainable approach to road safety.
FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem congratulated the AAC and its President, Dhammika Attygalle, on the achievement, noting that the projects demonstrate how mobility clubs can support communities during emergencies while continuing to develop innovations that save lives on the road.
Tim Shearman, Deputy President for Automobile Mobility and Tourism, highlighted the importance of local expertise within the FIA’s global network. He noted that the AAC’s initiatives demonstrate an understanding of the specific challenges faced by road users and the value of working with partners to address their needs both during emergencies and in everyday situations.
Augustus ‘Joe’ Ferreria, FIA Region II President, also commended the AAC’s response to extreme weather events, emphasising how the organisation combined its own capabilities with the knowledge and resources of its partners to support affected communities.
Commenting on the recognition, Dhammika Attygalle, President of the AAC, said extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common worldwide. He emphasised the organisation’s commitment to supporting road users nationwide through its dedicated team and extensive mobility network, while also pursuing proactive measures such as Solar-Guard to improve driver awareness and prevent accidents.
The AAC joins Australia’s Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV), a member of the Australian Automobile Association, as a Region II Champion of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.
A global judging panel will select one overall winner from the regional champions. The Global Winner will receive the award during the FIA General Assemblies week in Shanghai, China, in December 2026.
Now in its third year, the FIA Innovation Challenge recognises initiatives developed by member clubs across Region II that advance safer, more sustainable and more affordable mobility solutions.
Ceybank Marks 35 Years of Steady Growth and Financial Stability
Ceybank has commemorated its 35th anniversary, celebrating three and a half decades of resilience, continuity and investment expertise in Sri Lanka’s evolving financial landscape. Having navigated multiple economic cycles and market transformations, the company’s 35-year journey reflects its institutional strength and the confidence it has built among successive generations of investors.
The milestone was celebrated at a private gathering held at the Ceybank Corporate Office in Colombo, bringing together shareholders and company leadership to reflect on past achievements and discuss future priorities. The event was attended by Mr. Kavinda de Zoysa, Chairman of the Bank of Ceylon (BOC), highlighting the longstanding relationship between the two institutions and BOC’s position as Ceybank’s largest shareholder.
Looking ahead, Ceybank aims to build on its established investment capabilities by drawing more extensively on the collective strengths of its shareholders and pursuing further opportunities for growth.
Ceybank Asset Management Ltd. operates as a joint venture supported by four established institutions, each contributing distinct expertise, resources and strategic perspectives to the company’s governance and business operations.
The Bank of Ceylon, Sri Lanka’s largest state-owned commercial bank, holds a 44% stake in Ceybank. Its extensive nationwide network, financial strength and established reputation provide an important foundation for the company’s stability and market reach.
Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation Ltd. (SLIC), one of the country’s leading state-owned insurers, holds a 26% shareholding. Its experience in insurance, long-term financial planning and institutional investment adds further depth to Ceybank’s financial capabilities.
The Specified Undertaking of Unit Trust of India (SUUTI), a longstanding participant in India’s investment sector, owns a 17.5% stake, contributing investment expertise and a broader regional perspective. Meanwhile, diversified conglomerate Carson Cumberbatch PLC holds the remaining 12.5%, bringing its established investment experience and presence across multiple business sectors.
Together, these shareholders provide Ceybank with a diversified ownership structure that combines the financial strength of leading Sri Lankan institutions with regional investment expertise and private-sector experience.
The partnership with BOC is expected to become increasingly important as Ceybank enters its next phase of development. By combining Ceybank’s investment management capabilities with BOC’s extensive banking network and nationwide customer reach, the two institutions have opportunities to develop more integrated financial solutions and expand access to investment services.
As it marks 35 years of operations, Ceybank remains focused on building on its established foundations, strengthening relationships with its stakeholders and pursuing sustainable growth in Sri Lanka’s financial services sector.
AAC Named Region II Champion at FIA Innovation Challenge 2026 for Mobility and Solar-Powered Safety Solutions
