The Hatton National Bank (HNB) launched ‘HNB One’, a NFC (Near Field Communication) enabled card to strengthen the multi-channel banking. The NFC-enabled ‘combo’ card will facilitate speed in transactions and can be used at fast checkout counters for greater customer convenience. The launch took place in collaboration with Smart Metro, Bharti Airtel Lanka and Matara Passenger Transport Company. The first pilot project of this venture will be initiated through e-ticketing for buses. This will commence with long distance buses in the Southern Province, operating under the Matara Passenger Transport Company.
Dilshan Rodrigo, Chief Operating Officer – HNB mentioned that ‘HNB One’ is a card that will serve multiple purposes—an ATM Card, Debit or Shopping Card and in the future an access control card. The transaction process is simpler with a quick ‘tap and go’ functionality of NFC cards.
Chandana Wijesooriya, Director – Smart Metro stated that the company, having an alliance with the FeliCa Division of the SONY Cooperation, as the promoter of Sony FeliCa technology and products in Sri Lanka, would contribute in the HNB’s NFC enabled Visa International debit card project as the supplier of NFC enabled terminals. Sony will be providing the NFC technology through their FeliCa contactless IC card technology.
