A tribute to late Rienzie Wijetilleke

Monday, 14 July 2025 01:58 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The photograph shows Rienzie T. Wijetilleke with bank officers and agricultural entrepreneurs who participated in an agricultural study tour to China in 1989

By Gamini Yapa

A tribute to the late Rienzie Wijetilleke, a man who left an indelible mark on the banking sector. When he took over as the Managing Director of Hatton National Bank in the late 1980s, he revolutionised the banking industry. I was working at the Nuwara Eliya branch at that time, where most of our banking activities were centred on trade, small industries, and agriculture.

After becoming the Managing Director, Wijetilleke introduced new concepts to the banking system, focusing on rural development, self-employment, and agriculture. He ensured that small farmers, entrepreneurs, and small-scale industries were brought into the banking system. The introduction of simple loan facilities and advisory services helped many entrepreneurs access banking services.

One notable initiative was the “HNB Gami Pubuduwa” program, which won awards from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank. This program helped create self-employment opportunities and uplift rural sectors. Under his visionary leadership, HNB expanded its reach to remote areas.

Wijetilleke’s legacy is immense, and his contributions to the Sri Lankan economy and society are immeasurable. He created thousands of entrepreneurs, self-employed individuals, and business leaders. His impact on the banking sector, rural development, and job creation is still felt today.

We pay our respects to this great man, who lived among people and touched countless lives. We will always be grateful for his service.

(The writer is Retired Senior Manager Development Banking Division – HNB.)

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