Kumar Sangakkara

It is with great pleasure that I would like to take this opportunity to wish the great Mr. Merrill J. Fernando on his 90th birthday. This also marks 70 years in the tea trade. Two monumental landmarks in the life of a gentleman who has changed the business landscape of the tea industry in Sri Lanka forever.

It has been a great privileged over the years to get to know Mr. Fernando and his family. He has led an inspiring life. A man of simple taste, simple habits but of great vision. Ever ready to share his thoughts and knowledge and ever ready to share his good fortune with others. His life is a remarkable testimony to goodness, to great values, to visionary leadership and having a strong moral and ethical compass. All of which has contributed to the enrichment, not only of his own life, and not only to his successors, but also to everyone who is connected with him.

His philanthropic work, his concern and love for the less fortunate has been an inspiration for me and my wife Yehali in undertaking similar endeavours in terms of extending support and empowerment to those in need. I would like to thank Mr. Fernando for allowing me the opportunity to share intimate glimpses of his life, his mind and character that over the years has enriched my life no end.

"His life is a remarkable testimony to goodness, to great values, to visionary leadership and having a strong moral and ethical compass."