COLOMBO, 24 August 2026 – C T Land Development PLC (CSE: CTLD) has announced the formal appointment of Mrs. Chandrakanthi Indira Malwatte, a highly respected professional with over four decades of experience in export promotion and public sector leadership, as an Independent Non-Executive Director.
The appointment, effective from the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Friday, 21st August 2026, received overwhelming approval from shareholders. This follows a recommendation initially announced on 21st July 2026, regarding her proposed directorship.
Shareholders Approve Appointment Despite Age Criterion
In a notable move reflecting confidence in Mrs. Malwatte’s extensive expertise, shareholders passed the resolution for her appointment despite her being over 70 years of age. This approval aligns with Section 8.1 and 9.10.2 of the Listing Rules of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), which outlines specific provisions for such appointments under special circumstances and shareholder consent.
C T Land Development PLC officially conveyed this corporate disclosure to Ms. Nilupa Perera, Chief Regulatory Officer of the Colombo Stock Exchange, via a letter dated 21st August 2026, signed by Company Secretary Charuni Gunawardana.
A Distinguished Career in Public Service and Business Leadership
Mrs. Indira Malwatte brings an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and strategic vision to the C T Land Development PLC board. Her illustrious career spans over 40 years, primarily dedicated to export promotion, international marketing, and impactful public sector leadership. A graduate of the University of Peradeniya with a Combined Degree in Economics and Geography, Mrs. Malwatte has consistently broken barriers throughout her career.
Key Highlights of Mrs. Malwatte’s Profile:
- Pioneering Leadership: She made history as the first woman Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), where she played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s export landscape.
- Sectoral Expertise: Her profound expertise extends across a diverse range of sectors, including industrial, agricultural, services, and SME development, complemented by a strong command of supply chain management and a passionate commitment to women’s empowerment.
- International Collaboration: Mrs. Malwatte has served as a key resource person and focal point for numerous international development projects, collaborating with renowned organisations such as the World Bank, International Trade Centre (ITC), GIZ, CBI, and JETRO.
- Accolades and Recognition: Her exceptional contributions have garnered both local and international acclaim. She was the first Sri Lankan recipient of the Wifts Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award in Business (London, 2016). Additionally, she has been recognised by Zonta Sri Lanka and Women in Management for her outstanding leadership and achievements in government and development sectors and was featured on LMD’s prestigious “A-List” of Sri Lankan business people in 2018.
Current Board Engagements:
Beyond her new role at C T Land Development PLC, Mrs. Malwatte holds several other significant directorships, underscoring her active involvement in the corporate and public spheres:
- Chairman and Non-Executive Director of Samson International PLC
- Independent Non-Executive Director of Cargills (Ceylon) PLC
- Independent Non-Executive Director of Kotmale Holdings PLC
- Independent Non-Executive Director of Lanka Shipping and Logistics (Pvt) Ltd
- Director of the SWRD Bandaranaike Memorial Foundation
- Director of the Sri Lanka Handicraft Board
The appointment of Mrs. Indira Malwatte is expected to significantly strengthen the governance and strategic direction of C T Land Development PLC, leveraging her vast experience and deep understanding of both local and international economic landscapes.
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