NDB Bank Transforms Virtual Play into Real-World Impact with Donation to Clean Ocean Force

In a heartening gesture that aligns with its commitment to sustainability, NDB Bank has donated the proceeds from its innovative Avurudu Dupatha virtual gaming experience to Clean Ocean Force. This marks a first for Sri Lanka, where streamers were able to make in-game donations to Clean Ocean Force via QR code using the NDB NEOS app, reflecting not only the bank's dedication to environmental conservation but also highlighting its innovative approach to leveraging technology for social good.

The Avurudu Dupatha campaign, held during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April, was an immersive virtual island adventure available with the NDB NEOS app. Created in collaboration with Gamer.LK, the campaign showcased NDB's digital prowess and commitment to innovative customer engagement. The virtual island featured traditional Avurudu games, charming characters, and captivating stories, resonating with the cultural essence of Avurudu while providing an engaging gaming experience.

Players were transported into an interactive narrative where they had to unite to discover "NDB fragments," unlocking special powers to overcome the Economic Demon threatening the island. This storyline was crafted to reflect the spirit of Avurudu, adding depth and meaning to the gaming experience.

Darshana Jayasinghe, Assistant Vice President, Marketing at NDB, expressed his sentiments, stating that "This initiative not only highlights our innovative approach to customer engagement but also our dedication to sustainability. By turning a traditional cultural celebration into a digital experience, we were able to engage with our customers in a unique way while contributing to a cause that is vital to the future of our planet."

The campaign was a resounding success, with over 1.5 million youth actively engaged. On April 10th, 18 of Sri Lanka's top gaming influencers came together to live-stream the event, showcasing the app's user-friendly interface and its appeal to the youth demographic. The influencers utilised NDB NEOS QR payments to purchase in-game items and participate in the "ganu denu" Avurudu Spirit, all while contributing to environmental causes through Clean Ocean Force's 'Adopt a Beach' initiative.

As NDB Bank continues to lead the digital transformation in banking, it remains committed to providing unparalleled convenience, security, and service quality. The success of the Avurudu Dupatha campaign underscores NDB's adaptability in embracing the digital age to create unique experiences that bring people together and foster a sense of community.

NDB Bank’s partnership with Clean Ocean Force is a prime example of how innovative digital initiatives can be harnessed for greater social and environmental good, reaffirming the bank’s role as a leader in both digital banking and sustainability.

NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. The Bank was named the Retail Bank of the Year (Sri Lanka) at Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards 2023 and the Best Corporate Bank 2023 by Asiamoney and also emerged as the Most Awarded Corporate in Sri Lanka in 2022 for the second consecutive year, as per the annual rankings of Sri Lankan publication LMD. The Bank was adjudged the Best Bank in Sri Lanka 2022 by Global Finance USA and Euromoney in their annual best bank awards programmes. Additionally, The Bank was named one of the "Top 50 Best Workplaces in Sri Lanka 2022" by Great Place To Work, USA. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.

Image Caption : (Pictured L to R) Mario Perera, Manager Marketing –  NDB; Jerome Fernando, Chairman/Founder of Clean Ocean Force Lanka; Darshana Jayasinghe, AVP/Head of Marketing – NDB; Ramesh Liyanage, Director – InGame Esports.