Axiata Group Berhad proudly announced that Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, CEO of Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Director, has been appointed Chief Advisor to the President of Sri Lanka on Digital Economy. This strategic appointment underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to advancing its digital transformation initiatives and marks a new chapter in Dr. Wijayasuriya’s illustrious career.
Transition from Axiata to a National Role
Dr. Wijayasuriya will officially step down from his role at Axiata on 15 January 2025, concluding a remarkable three-decade tenure with the Group. During this period, he contributed significantly to Axiata’s transformation into a diversified Telco-TechCo leader, driving operations across Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia.
Reflecting on his career, Dr. Wijayasuriya expressed gratitude to Axiata’s leadership and colleagues for shaping his journey and enabling him to make meaningful contributions to the telecommunications and technology sectors. He acknowledged the privilege of being invited by the Government of Sri Lanka to guide the nation’s digital economy and expressed his commitment to leveraging his expertise for his homeland’s progress.
Axiata’s Tribute to Dr. Wijayasuriya
Axiata leadership highlighted Dr. Wijayasuriya’s profound impact on the Group and the telecommunications industry at large. Vivek Sood, Group CEO and Managing Director, described his appointment as a testament to Dr. Wijayasuriya’s unparalleled expertise in digital transformation. Sood assured stakeholders of a seamless leadership transition at Axiata while emphasizing the Group’s ongoing dedication to innovation and regional development.
Chairman Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan lauded Dr. Wijayasuriya as a transformative force, acknowledging his role in shaping Axiata’s strategic vision and fostering talent across the organization. Ridzuan expressed confidence in Dr. Wijayasuriya’s ability to propel Sri Lanka’s digital economy into a globally competitive position.
Axiata’s Commitment to Sri Lanka
Axiata Group’s longstanding investment in Sri Lanka is evident through its flagship connectivity provider, Dialog Axiata, and Axiata Digital Labs in Colombo. Dialog Axiata has been at the forefront of the country’s telecommunications landscape since 1993, while Axiata Digital Labs has contributed to regional technological innovation. These efforts reflect Axiata’s enduring commitment to Sri Lanka’s growth and its digital transformation.
Impact of Dr. Wijayasuriya’s Leadership
Dr. Wijayasuriya’s achievements at Axiata have been globally recognized, most notably with the GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024, the mobile industry’s highest honor. His vision for integrating telecommunications and technology positioned Axiata as a pioneer in the digital economy.
As Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, Dr. Wijayasuriya is set to bring this wealth of experience to Sri Lanka. His strategic guidance will play a crucial role in shaping a future-ready digital landscape, driving innovation, and fostering global competitiveness.
A Vision for Sri Lanka’s Digital Future
The appointment of Dr. Wijayasuriya signifies Sri Lanka’s dedication to leveraging technology for economic growth. By combining his expertise with the government’s commitment to digital transformation, Sri Lanka is poised to accelerate its journey toward becoming a leader in the global digital economy.
Axiata Group, as a trusted partner, will continue to support regional innovation and progress. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s leadership represents a bridge between past achievements and future opportunities, ensuring a legacy of innovation and collaboration that will benefit both Axiata and Sri Lanka’s digital evolution.
This strategic step forward marks an exciting chapter for the nation, reaffirming its commitment to harnessing technology to drive growth, inclusion, and long-term resilience.
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