Colombo, Sri Lanka – South Asia Gateway Terminals Ltd. (SAGT), Sri Lanka’s first Public Private Partnership (PPP) and flagship venture of the Board of Investment (BOI), emerged Winner and Runner Up in the Sustainability Champion category for the Freight, Aviation, and Maritime Industry at the recently concluded Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT) Awards 2024.
A trailblazer in advancing gender equality in the maritime sector, SAGT was recognized for its strong commitment to empowering women in the workplace. Gender inclusivity is a central pillar of the company’s sustainability strategy. Initiatives include the implementation of an anti-sexual harassment policy, a paternity leave policy, and targeted efforts to encourage women to pursue non-traditional roles within terminal operations.
In a groundbreaking move in September 2024, SAGT secured regulatory approval for female employees to work night shifts in select operational roles. By January 2025, 12 women had been integrated into these positions, increasing female workforce representation from 4.4% to 6.3%. SAGT is also a signatory to the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles and a member of the IFC-led SheWorks partnership, actively collaborating with industry bodies to promote gender equity in logistics and maritime.
The Company was also recognized for its impactful efforts to curb malnutrition in Sri Lanka during the height of the nation’s economic crisis. With rising food inflation and widespread shortages, production at Sri Lanka Thriposha Limited— the government’s national nutrition program—had come to a halt. SAGT stepped in with a contribution of LKR 184 million worth of essential ingredients, enabling the production of 3 million packs of fortified food. This initiative directly benefited over 1.5 million pregnant and lactating mothers and young children across the country, helping combat malnutrition in vulnerable communities.
Commenting on the awards SAGTs Chief Commercial Officer Ted Muttiah stated “These awards underscore SAGT’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, gender empowerment, and Corporate Social Responsibility reaffirming its role as a leader in creating a more inclusive and resilient future”
South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT), Sri Lanka’s first Public Private Partnership container terminal, commenced operations in 1999 with a vision to be the most trusted Gateway in the Indian Ocean. Built on a foundation of Teamwork, Safety, Trust and Integrity, Customer Centricity & Excellence, SAGT delivers best-in-class service to the global trading community. A pioneer in sustainable terminal operations, SAGT continues to steer a course toward a sustainable future. Promoting “Ease of doing business” through digitalization and digitization is an integral part of SAGT’s DNA. SAGT is a recipient of multiple independent, globally recognized best practice awards since inception.
SAGT is a Board of Investment flagship company whose shareholders include John Keells Holdings, Maersk/APM Terminals, SLPA, and Evergreen Marine Corporation.
South Asia Gateway Terminals (Pvt) Ltd
Media Contact:
Mr. Ted Muttiah – Chief Commercial Officer
Contact No: +94 112 457 350
E-mail: Ted.Muttiah@sagt.com.lk
PO Box 141, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Web: www.sagt.com.lk