Axiata Group Berhad ("Axiata" or "the Group") proudly announced today that Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, CEO of Telecommunicati...
Axiata Group Berhad ("Axiata" or "the Group") proudly announced today that Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, CEO of Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Director, has accepted an invitation from the Government of Sri Lanka ("GoSL") to take on the role of Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy. This prestigious appointment comes as Sri Lanka gears up to strengthen and advance its digital economy.
Dr. Wijayasuriya will officially step down from his role at Axiata Group on 15 January 2025, marking the conclusion of a remarkable three-decade career with the Group and its predecessor, Telekom Malaysia. During his remaining tenure, Dr. Wijayasuriya will focus on a seamless transition while actively contributing to Sri Lanka’s digital transformation initiatives in an advisory and non-executive capacity. Axiata has assured stakeholders of its dedication to continuity and a smooth transition as the Group identifies the next phase of leadership for its telecommunications operations.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Wijayasuriya remarked, "It has been an honour and privilege to be part of Axiata’s journey over the past decades. The Axiata family has consistently forged new frontiers in the digital, telco, and infrastructure spaces, championing Telco-TechCo transformation. I am deeply honoured by the invitation from Sri Lanka’s Government, allowing me to contribute to my homeland’s future digital landscape. I owe my knowledge and insights to the incredible leadership and colleagues at Axiata, for whom I am profoundly grateful."
The Impact and Legacy of Dr. Wijayasuriya at Axiata
During his tenure, Dr. Wijayasuriya played a pivotal role in driving Axiata's pan-Asian telecommunications strategy, overseeing operations across Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. Under his leadership, Axiata advanced its transformation into a diversified Telco-TechCo entity, focusing on digital integration and infrastructure innovation. His contributions were recognized globally, including the prestigious GSMA Chairman’s Award, the highest honor in the mobile industry, which he received in 2024 for his outstanding achievements.
Vivek Sood, Axiata’s Group CEO and Managing Director, emphasized the significance of Dr. Wijayasuriya’s appointment, stating, “It is a great honor for Axiata that Dr. Wijayasuriya will be leading Sri Lanka’s digital economy agenda. His deep understanding of telecommunications and digital transformation will undoubtedly bring remarkable value to the nation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hans for his exceptional contributions to Axiata. Together, we will ensure a smooth transition as he prepares for his new role.”
Axiata’s Commitment to Sri Lanka
Axiata Group has a longstanding commitment to Sri Lanka, demonstrated through its presence via Dialog Axiata, a leading connectivity provider in the country since 1993. Additionally, the Group has invested in Sri Lanka’s technology landscape through Axiata Digital Labs, based in Colombo, which develops innovative digital solutions for the region. These investments reflect Axiata’s unwavering dedication to Sri Lanka’s growth and digital advancement.
Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan, Chairman of Axiata, commented, “Dr. Wijayasuriya has been a transformative force within Axiata, shaping our strategic vision and fostering a reservoir of talent across the organization. We are immensely proud of his appointment and are confident that his leadership will be instrumental in propelling Sri Lanka’s digital economy.”
A New Chapter for Sri Lanka’s Digital Future
Dr. Wijayasuriya’s transition to this strategic advisory role underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to leveraging technology and digital innovation for economic growth. With his extensive experience and vision, Dr. Wijayasuriya is poised to support the Government of Sri Lanka in its digital transformation journey, shaping a future-ready digital economy and enhancing the country’s global competitiveness.
As Sri Lanka embarks on this exciting chapter in its digital evolution, Axiata Group remains a dedicated partner, steadfast in its vision to support regional innovation, leadership, and progress. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, driving change and innovation in both Axiata and Sri Lanka’s digital landscape.
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