Janaka Rathnakumara elected President of Association of Printers; Charts new chapter for industry

Sri Lanka Association of Printers 2025-2026 Office Bearers and Executive Committee 

By Amira Cader

The Sri Lanka Association of Printers (SLAP) successfully concluded its 65th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at The Kingsbury Hotel last week, marking another milestone in the Association’s longstanding commitment to the advancement of the island’s printing industry.

Wijeya Newspapers Ltd., Chief Operating Officer Janaka Rathnakumara was elected as the new President for the term 2025-2027, ushering in a renewed vision for growth and unity.

In his acceptance speech, newly elected President Rathnakumara paid tribute to the legacy of past SLAP leaders, acknowledging their lasting contributions to the Association and the industry at large.

“I stand on the shoulders of great leaders who have shaped this association. It is my duty to honour their legacy by uniting our membership, drawing on collective experience, and steering the SLAP towards even greater excellence,” he stated.

Rathnakumara further emphasised his commitment to fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation, positioning the SLAP for continued progress in the years ahead.

Outgoing President Anil Kariyawasam and other senior members reflected on the Association’s impactful contributions over the past year, while General Secretary Murugesu Senthilnathan underscored the SLAP’s ongoing support for its members, particularly during difficult times.

“By maintaining open communication with key authorities and through collaborative initiatives, we have been able to overcome many obstacles affecting our sector,” he said.

Sri Lanka Association of Printers President Janaka Rathnakumara 

Senthilnathan also extended heartfelt thanks to the sponsors for their consistent support, stating: “The financial backing and commitment of our sponsors have been vital to sustaining the SLAP’s activities and promoting industry development.”

Treasurer Udaya Hettiarachchi reported that the financial year 2024/25 had been remarkably successful, highlighted by a range of profitable events and training programs. Notable achievements included the Sri Lanka Print and the National Print Award, both of which generated substantial profits. He also cited the Paduru Party, Printers Seminar in Jaffna and Kurunegala, and the Printers’ Sixes 2024 as standout events that further boosted the Association’s financial health.

The 65th AGM reaffirmed the SLAP’s unwavering dedication to its members and the wider printing community. With a new leadership team at the helm, the Association looks forward to continued progress, innovation, and excellence in Sri Lanka’s dynamic printing landscape.

Following are excerpts from the speech of newly elected President Rathnakumara.

SLAP’s Vision for 2025–2027 is clear: to position our sector as a catalyst for sustainable growth, technological advancement, and global competitiveness. Under the theme “Printing for Prosperity,” we aim to transform not only how we print but how we learn, adapt, and lead in a rapidly changing world.

Key Priorities Ahead

Industry Advocacy and Policy Engagement

We will launch a National Print Policy Dialogue and promote incentives for green printing, while strengthening support for SMEs through financial access and regulatory facilitation.

Capacity Building and Education

A SLAP Training Academy will be launched with certified programs to empower youth and SMEs with the skills required for digital workflows, sustainable practices, and innovation-driven production.

Technology and Sustainability Transformation

We will promote ISO/FSC certifications and develop a national sustainability roadmap for the printing sector. Circular Economy principles will be embedded across the value chain.

Newly elected Sri Lanka Association of Printers President Janaka Rathnakumara (right) being congratulated by Immediate Past President Anil Kariyawasam at the 65th Annual General Meeting last Friday 

Market Development and Export Promotion

Print exhibitions, buyer-seller meets, regional trade delegations, and export readiness programs will help unlock regional and international markets especially in South Asia and Africa.

Institutional Strengthening and Member Engagement

SLAP will modernise its digital presence, revamp communication platforms, and build a strong youth and volunteer network to drive long-term resilience and growth. Call to Action

Our roadmap includes the creation of regional printing hubs, vocational partnerships, and low-interest equipment financing options in collaboration with key agencies like EDB, BOI, and NAITA. With the right collaboration across government, academia, and industry, I believe Sri Lanka’s printing sector can evolve into a high-value, green, and globally competitive industry. Let us unite under the shared vision of “Printing for Prosperity.” Let’s print not just paper but opportunity, dignity, and Sri Lanka’s industrial future. 

                             -Pix by Upul Abeyasekara