The Bank of Ceylon (BOC) has taken another significant step in advancing financial inclusion by introducing BOC Flex and Lanka QR payment solutions to entrepreneurs from Sri Lanka’s indigenous community in Dambana, enabling them to embrace the country’s growing digital economy while preserving their rich cultural heritage.
As the nation’s trusted banking partner, BOC continues to reaffirm its commitment to ensuring that every Sri Lankan, regardless of location or background, has access to secure, convenient, and innovative financial services. The initiative reflects the Bank’s vision of creating opportunities that empower communities and contribute to sustainable economic development.
For generations, the indigenous community of Dambana has relied on traditional livelihoods, including beekeeping, forest-based products, and handcrafted herbal items. However, limited access to modern banking services and wider markets has often restricted their economic potential.
Recognising these challenges, BOC introduced digital payment solutions that allow entrepreneurs to accept payments instantly through Lanka QR, with funds credited directly to their Bank of Ceylon accounts. This eliminates the need to handle cash, provide change, or face payment-related inconveniences, while offering customers a fast, secure, and seamless payment experience.
The initiative becomes even more meaningful as movement within forest areas has increasingly been affected by wildlife-related challenges. By enabling digital transactions, BOC helps bridge the gap between these entrepreneurs and customers, creating new opportunities for business growth, financial security, and wider market access.
The indigenous entrepreneurs recently showcased their unique products at the BOC SME Trade Fair held at Dutch Hospital, Colombo. As part of its commitment to empowering small entrepreneurs, the Bank provided them with exhibition space free of charge, enabling them to promote and market their products to a wider audience. Visitors also experienced the convenience of making purchases through Lanka QR, demonstrating how traditional craftsmanship and modern digital banking can work together to create sustainable livelihoods while preserving Sri Lanka’s unique cultural identity.
Beyond introducing a payment solution, this initiative represents BOC’s broader commitment to building an inclusive financial ecosystem where every community can participate in the nation’s digital transformation journey. By combining technology with purpose, the Bank continues to create pathways for economic empowerment, ensuring that no Sri Lankan is left behind.
Through initiatives such as these, Bank of Ceylon continues to live its promise as the “Bankers to the Nation,” connecting people, empowering businesses, and driving inclusive growth across Sri Lanka, where centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge digital innovation come together to build a stronger future for generations to come.
Photo caption: BOC GM/CEO Y. A. Jayathilaka officially introduces the Lanka QR payment system to “Landala Aththo of Dambana Nishpadana”, empowering indigenous entrepreneurs to embrace secure digital payments and participate in Sri Lanka’s growing digital economy.
