Sri Lanka cyclone prompts ‘swift’ response from Resplendent Ceylon

Resplendent Ceylon has “rallied swiftly” to provide support after Cyclone Ditwah hit Sri Lanka, where the group operates five resorts.

The cyclone caused 410 confirmed deaths and a state of emergency was declared on November 30, but the group has stressed that its properties remain “fully operational”.

Malik Fernando, Resplendent Ceylon’s founder and managing director, said the cyclone caused “severe but highly localised impacts” and that “most tourism regions were unaffected and continue to welcome visitors, including all Resplendent Ceylon properties”. 

Speaking to Aspire, he said: “Tourism supports millions of livelihoods, and every visit helps communities recover. Sri Lanka’s resilience is evident, and travellers can experience its beauty and warmth while supporting communities as they rebuild.”

Fernando also gave details of the group’s relief efforts to help those impacted by the disaster.

“Our teams have rallied swiftly to support colleagues and communities affected, delivering essential food and medicine to our 158 staff members affected, as well as supplying over 2,000 meals to affected local families and displaced people,” he said.

The group also plans to reallocate budgets from its philanthropic arm MJF Charitable Foundation towards continued reconstruction and restoration efforts. 

Pictured: Resplendent Ceylon’s property Cape Weligama

Picture credit: Shutterstock/Sembler