SLIC extends life, health insurance solutions to Bahria Foundation employees and retired navy personnel
State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan (SLIC) signed an agreement with Bahria Foundation to provide group life and health insurance to over six thousand employees of Bahria Foundation and retired personnel of Pakistan Navy.
Shoaib Javed Hussain, Chairman (SLIC) and V/Adm Khan Hasham Bin Saddique HI(M) witnessed the event where, executives from both organizations were also present. This partnership is yet another step towards making life and health insurance accessible to every Pakistani.
“As part of our mission of extending the benefits of insurance to all sections of society and meeting our commitments to our policy holders and the nation; we take pride in providing financial and health protection to the employees of Bahria Foundation and retired personnel from Pakistan Navy,” said Shoaib Javed Hussain, Chairman (SLIC).
“This strategic partnership commemorates our commitment for continuous improvement and innovation for our employees as well as the welfare of retired personnel of Pakistan Navy,” said Khan Hasham Bin Saddique, MD Bahria Foundation.
State Life Insurance Company of Pakistan (SLIC) is the largest and the only AAA rated insurance company in the country. Over the past one year, the corporation has emerged as one of the most successful State-Owned enterprises in the country. Learn more about the corporation at statelife.com.pk.
Bahria Foundation was established in 1982 by the Government of Pakistan as a Charitable Trust under Endowment Act 1890. It is an amalgam of highly disciplined & experienced retired personnel from the Pakistan Navy and talented professionals from all fields.
The Foundation is engaged in diversified industrial, commercial and developmental activities through its four pillars namely Bahria Education & Training Services (BEATS), Maritime Works Organization (MWO), Commercial Businesses (CB) and Bahria Estates (BE). All four pillars fall under Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of each pillar. Alongside, Bahria Foundation operates in various regions Pan Pakistan.
It aims to be at the forefront of our expanding focusing blue economy, contributing to social uplift, national progress and education. Bahria Foundation has been contributing to the society through number of subsidiaries and its four pillars of Organization. It is currently headed by Vice Admiral Khan Hasham Bin Saddique HI(M).
Codebase Technologies joins Cloud4C to upkeep Digital Financial Services across MENA
Codebase Technologies has partnered with Cloud4C, a leading global cloud managed services provider, to support digital financial institutions in the MENA region with risk-proofed digital transformation journeys. The partnership will help regional banks and financial services providers accelerate their time to market, improve customer experiences, and reduce operating costs by combining the benefits of Codebase Technologies’ Digibanc fintech platform with Cloud4C’s cloud hosting. This partnership was highlighted at Seamless Middle East, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
In recent years, legacy institutions have been forced to quickly adapt to changing market dynamics with the rise of neobanks, challenger banks, and fintechs. However, many have faced obstacles to innovation and change in the form of high costs for implementing digital initiatives, knowledge gaps, training time, and problematic integration with existing IT infrastructure. The adoption of API-first approaches to banking and platformification has helped many legacy institutions address these key issues with Fintechs and digital banking solutions partners, such as Codebase Technology, to increase innovation and transform their business models to compete with new-age players.
Commenting on the partnership, Nehul Goradia, Director of Channel & Alliances, said, “Cloud is quickly becoming the go-to for digital banks in the MENA region, following global trends. We are excited to join forces with Cloud4C to support our clients by offering them a comprehensive banking technology stack through Digibanc, powered by a high-availability, fully secure and compliant cloud. While many institutions have embarked on digital transformation journeys, we foresee that the pace of change will continue to increase, and we are happy to bring an all-in-one solution with Cloud4C to market that will truly empower our clients.
Through the partnership, Codebase Technologies joins Cloud4C as a preferred ISV partner, with Digibanc being available to Cloud4C’s clients as an advanced cloud banking solution. Digibanc can be deployed for clients on an individual or SaaS basis, depending on customer requirements. As part of the partnership, Cloud4C will support Codebase Technologies and provide cloud hosting for the fintech companies or direct clients running Digibanc, now and in the future.
“Codebase Technologies and Cloud4C jointly promise a powerful technology foundation for legacy financial institutions and modern neobanks, enabling them to transform their mission-critical operations, innovate faster with digital advancements, and deliver personalized experiences to customers anywhere and anytime with near zero downtimes. While Digibanc supplies an advanced business platform, Cloud4C extends end-to-end managed services for hyper-scale public, hybrid, and multi-cloud environments. A single SLA is provided until application login, guaranteeing advanced security, local regulatory compliance, and uninterrupted continuity across the globe. Such a robust core will enable businesses to operate frictionlessly in an ever-dynamic market and unearth long-term business value with utmost resiliency”, added Rakesh Reddy, Regional Director – MEA at Cloud4C.
NBP empowers women with attractive financing scheme
National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) takes a pioneering step towards empowering women with its revolutionary financing scheme designed exclusively for current and aspiring women entrepreneurs.
The scheme offers a competitive interest rate of 5%, ensuring affordable and accessible funding for new and existing women-owned businesses. With easy installment plans and a flexible repayment period of 5 years, this initiative aims to facilitate growth and sustainability.
NBP sets new standards in customer service, providing swift and hassle-free processing, coupled with minimal documentation requirements.
Reviving of IMF programme set to help business community: Mian Zahid
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain said on June 12 that after the preparation and announcement of the budget according to the recommendations of the IMF, the restoration of the IMF programme seems easy.
Getting new loans and rescheduling old loans will also be possible on easy terms after the restoration of IMF programme, therefore the government will not have to depend on local expensive loans to meet the budget deficit of seven thousand billion rupees, he said.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that IMF and other foreign loans will be cheaper, therefore it will not trigger inflation in the country.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that the increase in the salaries of government employees will benefit them, but the public will suffer because it will also increase inflation in the country.
Reviving the IMF programme will restore the confidence of the business community, he said, adding that in order to get support from the IMF, the government will have to make its future policies according to the recommendations of the IMF.
We should keep it in mind that observance of the basic economic principles and accurate estimates of costs and revenues are necessary to ensure economic development, which is the only way forward for self-sufficiency.
He said that privatization of failed government institutions should not be delayed, import substitution should be a preference and losses in electricity and gas sectors should be eliminated for which political will in necessary.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that if there is no agreement with the IMF, we will have to take expensive loans from commercial banks for defence, development and other expenses, the entire burden of which will have to be borne by the people who are already suffering due to inflation.
MCB Bank and Marham join hands to promote digital healthcare services
MCB Bank Limited, one of Pakistan’s leading banks, has established a strategic alliance with Marham Medicare Private Limited, a leading healthcare service provider. This collaboration aims to empower MCB Bank’s digital banking customers by offering them the convenience of finding, booking and consulting doctors digitally. Additionally, the partnership includes exclusive packages that incorporate home diagnostics and online medicine delivery services.
Through this collaboration, MCB Live users will have access to comprehensive healthcare services and various other services, all within the MCB Live app. With just a simple click, MCB Live users will be able to avail Marham’s specialized services, ensuring easy access to quality healthcare and convenience no matter where they are.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at MCB House Lahore, Syed Jaffar Abbas Shirazi, Division Head Digital Channels & Branchless Banking, MCB Bank said, “We remain committed to leveraging technology and partnerships to deliver innovative solutions to our customers. We believe that the well-being of our customers extends beyond financial matters, and this collaboration allows us to explore avenues to enhance our services and create a seamless digital ecosystem that integrates finance and healthcare”.
“At Marham, we are super excited to do an innovative partnership with MCB Bank to make healthcare accessible and efficient for everyone in an affordable way. With the focus on giving a reliable service & patient-centric experience to MCB Live users, we look forward to building a long-term impact together”, said Ms. Asma Salman Omer, Co-Founder and COO Marham.
Total Parco Pakistan organises university day at GCU Lahore
Total PARCO Pakistan Limited, one of the largest multinational energy company in Pakistan, recently organized an event titled “Transforming Lives with Positive Action in New Reality” at Government College University (GCU) in Lahore.
The event featured Mehmet Celepoglu, Chief Executive Officer of Total PARCO Pakistan Limited (TPPL), who delivered an inspiring speech to the young students and enthusiastic audience from various walks of life.
During the event we witnessed Mehmet Celepoglu engaging with the audience, both in-person at a packed auditorium and digitally, with thousands of participants including students, business partners, customers, media personnel, brand ambassadors, and his own teams. It provided a platform for all the youth to learn from such an inspiring leader as him from his vast knowledge and experiences. He shared insights into his unique leadership and management style, which has successfully guided TPPL through the challenges of the last three years.
During his speech, we got to know about TPPL’s initiatives focused on positive diversity, women empowerment, safety, and sustainable development, showcasing the organization’s transformative journey over the past three years. His speech offered valuable insights into TPPL’s forward-thinking strategies.
Moreover, he emphasized his determination to prioritize diversity, inclusion, youth empowerment, and sustainable development, aiming to exemplify its role as an energy company that enables individuals to become effective leaders driving positive initiatives. Through these endeavors, Total PARCO seeks to create a lasting and positive influence in the communities it serves.
After the speech, Mehmet Celepoglu inaugurated the Miyawaki Forest at Government College University, Lahore along with Professor Dr. Asghar Zaidi the Vice Chancellor of GCU Lahore.
TPPL demonstrated its proactive approach towards environmental preservation and conservation, aligning with its core value of “Care for the Environment.”
Pakistan struggles for economic self-sufficiency: Mian Zahid
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain said on June 7 that the IMF’s reputation is affected by the reluctance to give credit to Pakistan.
“The IMF is repeatedly changing the conditions and keeping the programme suspended,” he said.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that the international organisation should play its economic role in this region and avoid taking a political role.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that making a budget will be difficult in the absence of support from the international institution.
He noted that seven trillion rupees are required for debt servicing and defence expenses, after which the government will have nothing left to run the country’s system.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that in the next financial year, Pakistan has to pay 25 billion dollars, which will have to be rolled over.
Even if Saudi Arabia, China, and the United Arab Emirates give two to four billion dollars to Pakistan, it will not be enough to save Pakistan from bankruptcy, he observed.
The business leader noted that cosmetic measures to avoid bankruptcy will only hurt the economy instead of improving it.
Four decades ago, Pakistan’s economy was much better than India’s, but currently India’s foreign exchange reserves are at $650 billion, exports are at $660 billion and remittances are at $100 billion, while Pakistan’s remittances and exports are both falling, inflation has reached 38 percent, foreign exchange reserves are at $4.5 billion and the value of our currency is continuously decreasing, he informed.
It shows that India’s priorities have remained much better than Pakistan’s, he said, adding that some reasons behind Pakistan’s economic collapse include imports more than twice as much as exports during the previous government, political chaos, lack of governance, increasing corruption, incompetence, irresponsibility of the ruling elite, VIP culture, waste of resources, tax evasion, a policy of prioritising politics over economy, a lack of rule of law, mockery in the name of accountability, mafia rule, etc.
Mian Zahid Hussain furthered that the economic foundations of the country are mined, and no international organisation or friendly country can diffuse them to put our economy on the path of development; we will have to do it ourselves and fill all the holes.
If the government makes a strategy to lead the national economy on the path of self-sufficiency, the business community will fully cooperate with it,” he said.
Rebuilding Connections: Connecting People in Crisis through Free Calling
Zong, the forefront pioneer in Pakistan’s telecommunication industry, is reaching out with empathy and a strong sense of social responsibility to offer unwavering support to the Biparjoy-affected areas including Sirani, Sakro, Chuhar Jamali, and Jati so far. In a heartfelt effort to ease the burden of these challenging times, Zong 4G is providing 20 minutes of complimentary calling to individuals residing in these regions, ensuring that connectivity remains a lifeline and a source of solace amidst adversity.
The Biparjoy affected areas have recently endured unimaginable hardships, disrupted lives and severely affected the daily lives of common citizens. The power of effective communication during times of crisis cannot be overstated, and Zong 4G understands the profound impact it can have on restoring hope and connecting people in need. With a deep commitment to fostering human connection and empowerment, Zong 4G is dedicated to providing free minutes to individuals in these areas, enabling them to reach out to their loved ones, access essential services, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone.
The official spokesperson for Zong 4G shared his heartfelt thoughts on the initiative, saying, “Zong 4G stands shoulder to shoulder with the Biparjoy affectees, fully aware of the depth of their struggle. As responsible telecommunications providers, our moral obligation is to extend compassion and support to communities in need. Through the provision of 20 minutes of free calling, we aim to not only facilitate seamless communication but also provide a lifeline of hope and connection to those who need it most.”
To ensure accessibility for those affected, residents of the designated Biparjoy affected areas can simply dial *9090# to activate the offer through their Zong 4G mobile numbers. This initiative is for both prepaid and postpaid customers within the affected geographies, emphasizing Zong’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind in their time of need.
This impactful initiative by Zong 4G reflects the company’s unwavering dedication to corporate social responsibility and its understanding of the power of human connection. With its solid reputation for providing a robust and reliable network and a culture of continuous innovation, Zong 4G continues to exemplify its position as the Number 1 telecommunications company in Pakistan, while keeping the human element at the core of its operations.
Soft relations with IMF worrying business community: Mian Zahid
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain said on June 16 that the IMF has expressed its concerns about the federal budget, which are contrary to the expectations of the Prime Minister.
Pakistan’s relations with the international organisation are deteriorating instead of improving, which worries the business community and affects their confidence, he said.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that the government has so far controlled the current account deficit by restricting imports, which has saved Pakistan from default, but this year Pakistan has to repay or rollover $20 billion in debt.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that repaying the debt is impossible without the IMF, so this fact should be accepted; otherwise, the country will go bankrupt.
The business leader said that the current budget is being considered by the IMF as a political budget, in which reforms in the energy sector have been ignored and steps have not been taken to widen the tax base.
The IMF considers that remittances of one hundred thousand dollars a year have been allowed, amounting to an amnesty scheme.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that many countries have seen worse conditions than Pakistan, but they came out of the crisis due to strict measures.
In 1991, neighbouring India was left with $1.2 billion and was going bankrupt. The IMF and World Bank also turned away, but its political leadership accepted the challenge, and now that country has become a major economic power.
India has had many changes of government since 1991, but none have changed the economic policies that have made it the third-largest economic power.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that currently, production, exports, remittances, and employment in the country are continuously decreasing while inflation and anxiety are increasing and serious economic and social problems are arising.
Achieving the revenue targets in the budget is impossible without increasing the tax base. Instead of reducing expenditure in the budget, it has been increased, leading to excessive borrowing from local banks, which has also fuelled inflation.
A realistic review of the current budget has become necessary to bridge the trust deficit between Pakistan and the IMF, he said.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that the country can be saved by important decisions including privatisation, import substitution, energy reforms, and a reduction in business costs.
Otherwise, he said, the government coming after the current government will have to face more stringent conditions and the people will face more inflation.
EFU General launches Whatsapp Chatbot service
EFU General, a leading insurance company, has announced the launch of its WhatsApp Chatbot service, aimed at providing a quick and easy communication channel for its customers.
With the increasing use of WhatsApp as a communication tool, EFU General recognizes the need to provide its customers with a more convenient and accessible way to connect with them. Through WhatsApp Chatbot service, customers can easily send inquiries, claims, and other requests directly to the company, without the need for a phone call or an email.
“We understand that our customers want to interact with us on their terms and at their convenience,” said EFU General’s spokesperson. “Our WhatsApp Chatbot service enables us to provide a more efficient and personalized experience, allowing us to respond to our customers’ needs more effectively.”
The WhatsApp service is available to all EFU General Customers, who can simply save the company’s WhatsApp number 0308-6937265 in their contacts and start messaging. The service is available 24/7, and customers can expect a prompt and helpful response from EFU General’s customer service team.
“We are committed to providing the best customer experience possible, and we believe that WhatsApp service will help us achieve this goal,” added the EFU General, spokesperson. “We are excited to launch this service and look forward to further improving our communication channels with our customers.”
EFU General’s WhatsApp service is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance its customer service and provide innovative solutions to meet its customers’ evolving needs.
Well-balanced budget, says Mian Zahid Hussain
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain said on June 10 that the budget is overall balanced.
Attention has been given to every sector except the industrial sector. The cost reduction of the industrial sector has not been addressed, so the export and manufacturing sectors will not be able to achieve the target, he said.
“Agriculture, SMEs, IT, solar, and many other sectors will get a boost due to the budget measures,” he added.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that an increase in minimum wages, salaries, and pensions and tax exemptions for businesswomen and youth are laudable, while a further hike in tax rates on non-filers is needed.
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that the incentives to several important sectors to develop the economy are wanting but appreciable and they will give a clear and correct direction to the economy.
He said that Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif has said that the budget has been made keeping in mind the recommendations of the IMF, so it is expected that things will move forward positively from the IMF.
The tax revenue target has been increased by 30% to Rs9,200 billion, which will be difficult to achieve by burdening the existing taxpayers. There is scope for tax collection of two thousand billion rupees.
The non-tax revenue has been estimated at three trillion rupees. There is a deficit of about seven thousand billion rupees in the current budget. After deducting the provincial share of Rs5,276 billion and the interest payment of Rs7,300 billion, there will be nothing left, and borrowing will be necessary to meet the budget deficit.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that the IMF wants a half percent primary budget surplus, which has decreased by Rs150 billion, while the increase in salaries will require Rs100 billion. This difference of Rs250 billion will not be accepted by the international institution, for which it will be necessary to introduce a mini-budget.
He noted that the difference between the official and non-official dollar rates has to be reduced, otherwise, it is impossible to achieve the target of remittances.
He said that in the absence of loss prevention in the electricity and gas sectors, a privatisation programme, and import substitution, it is impossible to run the country without the IMF while the talk of Plan B and C makes little sense.
Shell notifies PSX to sell its shareholding in SPL
Shell Pakistan Limited (SPL) announced that its parent company, Shell Petroleum Company Limited, has notified its intent to sell its shareholding in the Pakistan unit.
Shell Pakistan, in a notice sent to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), said: “We hereby inform you that the Board of Directors of Shell Pakistan Limited (SPL), in a meeting of its Board, held on June 14, 2023, have been notified by The Shell Petroleum Company Limited (SPCo) of its intent to sell its shareholding in SPL.”
The oil and gas company clarified that any sale will be subject to a targeted sales process, the execution of binding documentation and the receipt of applicable regulatory approvals.
SPL, however, said that the development would have no impact on its current business operations, which will continue.
“SPL remains committed to continuing to deliver safe and reliable operations for our customers and partners,” it added.
It should be noted that the SPL is a subsidiary of Shell Petroleum Company Limited, United Kingdom, which is a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell Plc, one of the world’s largest energy and petrochemical companies.
A spokesperson of SPL said that it has been in the country for 75 years and has a substantial retail footprint and a strong lubricants business.
“Any sale will be subject to a targeted sales process, the execution of binding documentation and the receipt of applicable regulatory approvals. Shell is seeing strong interest from international buyers,” the statement read.
With 350+ employees, SPL markets petroleum products and compressed natural gas, and also blends and markets various kinds of lubricating oils.
Last month, Shell Pakistan Limited announced its financial performance for the first quarter of 2023, which was severely impacted by the ongoing economic crisis in the country.
The loss came on the back of an unprecedented devaluation of the rupee, rising inflation and macroeconomic uncertainty.
Shortly after the announcement, the share price of Shell Pakistan was hovering around Rs89.17, up by Rs6.22 with a volume of over four million.
DW AND RG&CC to promote golf through alliance powered by visa
Discount World (DW) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rumanza Golf & Country Club (RG&CC), which is Asia’s largest 18-hole 72-par golf course with distinctive features that offer breath-taking views which are treat for both the eyes and the soul.
The alliance which is powered by VISA is one step forward aimed at facilitating the large consumer base of VISA premium card holders, and the initiative taken by Discount World to club with RG&CC could be termed as one essential move by those who possess the never-ending love for Golf.
DW’s strategic alliance will not only be a revolutionary move to promote Golf in the country, but will also facilitate the Golf players across the country to live their dream and excel on the lush green Golf field as a result of the alliance between the two organizations powered by VISA.
“We are extremely thrilled and delighted to partner with the picturesque Rumanza Golf Club, to promote Golf in Pakistan for the locals and tourists who will now have a chance to enjoy Golf with added benefits, as a result of their trust on VISA and being the loyal premium card holders. Today, it gives me great honor to represent Discount World (DW) which acts as the bridge between the beautiful Rumanza Golf Club and the enthusiasts of this sport of Golf, who will be served with added benefits,” said Sultan Richard, Chairman & CEO, DW.
The MoU was signed between Sultan Richard and RG&CC’s Project Sect) Col. Habib-ur-Rehman.
Welcoming the joint alliance powered by VISA, Rumanza Golf & Country Club’s (Project Sect) Col. Habib-ur-Rehman said, “It is a great privilege to tee off this partnership with Discount World which has been powered by VISA, this alliance will pave the ways for the people possessing the love for this sports, while also serving as an opportunity for their loved ones to experience a tranquil and serene view topped up with other facilities on offer ranging from savoring rich gourmet delicacies and regional treats to experience the thematic zones of RG&CC.”
Russian oil to improve energy security and save forex: Mian Zahid
Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister Mian Zahid Hussain on June 14 welcomed the arrival of cheap Russian oil, terming it a great step to improve energy security and save foreign exchange.
Attempts should be made to continue this process after the immediate inspection and refining of the trial cargo to give some relief to the public who are worried about inflation, he said.
Mian Zahid Hussain said that if oil can be imported from Russia, which is engaged in war with the west then why can’t gas be imported from Iran, another opponent of the Western bloc?
Talking to the business community, the veteran business leader said that according to the government’s claim, Russian oil is 15 to 18 percent cheaper than other sources, which will not only save costs but will also have to be paid for later.
Payments for the Russian oil can also be made in Chinese currency, which will not burden the foreign exchange reserves but will help stabilise them, he added.
The business leader said that if Pakistan were to import 50% of its oil from Russia, it would be possible to save one and a half to two billion dollars annually, and this could become the basis for Pakistan’s energy security, which would further improve relations between the two countries.
He said that the move can transform friendship into brotherhood; it will also help to control inflation and balance Pakistan’s relations with the Western bloc and the Eastern bloc.
Mian Zahid Hussain further said that India is importing forty percent of its oil from Russia, while we have wasted a lot of time in this regard. Indian refineries are modern and ‘deep conversion’ refineries, producing more diesel and petrol and less furnace oil.
If the refineries in Pakistan are upgraded, more value added products can be produced, which will benefit the Pakistani economy, he said.
In May last year, a litre of petrol was available for Rs150 and a litre of diesel for Rs144. Although there has been some reduction in the price of petrol and diesel by the current government in the past month, still the price of diesel and petrol is very high compared to the last financial year, due to which inflation has crossed 38%.
Pakistan imports more than eighty percent of its crude oil and petroleum products to meet its domestic demand.
The reduction in inflation in the country will be possible if electricity generation is shifted to solar energy instead of petroleum products and also import of crude oil from Russia for a long period of time is ensured.
Descon Engineering receives diamond category award
Descon Engineering Limited (DEL) has been honoured with the prestigious Diamond Category Award in the construction and manufacturing industry by the Employer Federation of Pakistan (EFP). This esteemed recognition acknowledges DEL’s significant efforts in fostering skills development within its workforce.
The Employer Federation of Pakistan (EFP) has commended DEL for its commitment to enhancing skills and capacity building. This award reflects DEL’s dedication to empowering workforce through comprehensive skill development programmes.
The General Manager of Descon Technical Institute (DTI) & DEL’s President of Manpower and People Services Mr. Murtaza Ali, has been leading this portfolio. Under his leadership, DTI has implemented various training initiatives that have equipped Descon’s workforce with market driven skills necessary for success.
This Diamond Category Award underscores DEL’s commitment to nurturing talent and maintaining a skilled workforce at the forefront of industry advancements. By investing in skills development, DEL continues to drive innovation and deliver exceptional results for clients.
DEL remains dedicated to providing an environment that promotes professional growth and personal development. With this recognition from the Employer Federation of Pakistan (EFP), DEL reaffirms its commitment to empowering workforce and contributing to Pakistan’s industrial progress.
Indus Motor Company Takes Centre Stage in Advocating for Safer Roads in Pakistan
Indus Motor Company (IMC) joined the world to mark the 7th UN Global Road Safety Week, becoming the first automobile manufacturer in Pakistan’s history to undertake such an initiative. The catchphrase, “I am a Road Safety Leader”, resonated across the company as it stressed for the need for safer roads across the country during the week-long campaign.
The week aptly kicked-off with IMCs CEO, Ali Asghar Jamali’s video message to his entire team of over four thousand employees, that emphasized the need to always fasten seatbelts and remaining cognizant of the fact that road safety is every person’s responsibility. He also invited them to become Road Safety Leaders.
As part of the immersive awareness raising campaign, IMC launched a dedicated micro landing page on the company’s website where users could test their knowledge on road safety and earn a badge to become a Toyota Road Safety Leader.
Chief Executive, Ali Asghar Jamali, expressing himself said, “Pakistan has one of the highest road traffic accident rates in the world; 75 percent of road crashes in the economically productive age. What we see happening on the roads today is really disappointing; an utter civic responsibility deficit. I strongly feel that what’s needed is a 360 degree turn in behavioral change at the individual level. Road safety is a collective responsibility and by working together we can surely make a difference and create safer and more sustainable cities for ourselves and other around us. Campaigning during the global week gives us exactly this opportunity to reach out to people within and outside the company to become advocates of road safety as Toyota Road Safety Leaders.”
IMCs Ambassador for Road Safety, Mr Niaz Malik, has played a pivotal role in driving awareness through various channels. His virtual and interactive meet with the company’s employees during the global week, garnered much interest as he advocated road safety consciousness through his own near fatal road accident and life altering experience.
Other activities during the week included sending out powerful text messages to 100,000 customers; dedicated awareness sessions for its van transport staff, ensuring their active involvement in promoting road safety. Adding an even more powerful emotional touch to the campaign, IMC showcased survival stories of IMC employees who have experienced road accidents and triumphed over adversity. These courageous individuals have become passionate advocates of road safety, inspiring others to embrace responsible driving habits to protect the lives of their loved ones and fellow citizens. Employees, including the top management also had the opportunity to be photographed with road safety pledges which best resonated with them.
IMC’s pioneering efforts during the 7th UN Global Road Safety Week have set a new benchmark in the automobile industry and beyond. With unwavering determination, IMC continues to lead the change in creating a culture of road safety and reinforcing the belief that every individual has the power to make a positive impact.
State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan: A Beacon of Stability and Reliability in Challenging Times
State Life’s unparalleled performance and strategic growth can be attributed to its highly competent leadership, diversified management, and professional team. State Life has achieved close to a 67% growth compared to the previous year, resulting in all-time high revenue. It’s Gross Written Premium (GWP) of PKR 286 billion plus surpasses the combined GWP of all other insurance companies in Pakistan, which stands at approximately PKR 127.87 billion. State Life’s growth has played a significant role in driving the industry’s overall progress, contributing to a nearly 43% growth in the industry in 2022. State Life Insurance Corporation’s market share in 2022 has increased close to 70%, compared to 55% plus in the previous year, which is close to 24% growth in the market share as well.
-Business performance:
New business: 174.5 billion increasing by over 143% from 2021
-Earnings:
Premium Income: Over Rs.286.3 billion collected – increased by 67% from 2021
– Growth:
Assets: Over Rs. 1.6 trillion – increased by 17% from 2021
-Payouts:
Claims: Over Rs. 175.5 billion in claims paid to policyholders – increased by 78% from 2021; highest ever since inception.
Bonus to policyholder: Rs. 97.5 billion – increased by 14% from 2021; highest ever since inception
State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan, under the leadership of Mr. Shoaib Javed Hussain, has emerged as a trailblazer in the insurance industry. With a clear focus on bolstering the industry’s contribution to the nation’s GDP, State Life plays a pivotal role in fortifying the economy’s backbone through the strategic alignment of technology, data, and a human-centric approach.