Safeguarding trust in digital era

Friday, 18 July 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Seminar to spotlight “Data Protection and Cybersecurity priorities”

A seminar focused on “Data Protection and Cybersecurity implementation” will be held on 7 August, at the NH Collection in Colombo, under the theme “Safeguarding Trust: Implementing Data Protection and Cybersecurity in a Digital Era”.

The event will feature two dedicated sessions addressing Sri Lanka’s readiness to operationalise the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) and strengthen cybersecurity practices across sectors. The initiative is aligned with the Government of Sri Lanka’s Digital Economy Program, which places digital trust and resilience at the core of national transformation efforts.

The seminar will bring together professionals from legal, regulatory, ICT, and private sector domains, including large corporates, public enterprises, and SMEs. It aims to foster institutional dialogue, regulatory alignment, and practical awareness across industries.

Session 1: Data protection and privacy implementation

Time: 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.

This session will examine the real-world implications of the PDPA for organisations of all sizes. It will explore compliance strategies, the role of Data Protection Officers (DPOs), and readiness levels across sectors such as telecom, banking, and health. Special attention will be given to the practical challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Resource include, General Counsel, Regulatory Chair, DPO and PDPA Drafting Committee member Trinesh Fernando, Nestlé Asst Director – Legal and Regulatory Keerthi Pathiraja, D. L. & F. De Saram Senior Partner Manjula Sirimane and Former Securities market regulator Malik Cader.

Session 2: Cybersecurity – Practical aspects in a digital era

Time: 3:35 p.m. to 4:50 p.m.

Focusing on recent threat patterns and institutional vulnerabilities, this session will delve into cybersecurity planning, breach response, insider risk, and vendor management. Discussions will also highlight how organisations can align cybersecurity safeguards with their data protection obligations under the PDPA.

Resource include, HNB PLC Chief Information and Security Officer Suresh Emmanuel, Dialog AVP – Information Security Farash Samat, PickMe Founder and CEO Jiffrey Zulfer Hassen and General Counsel, Regulatory Chair, DPO and PDPA Drafting Committee member Trinesh Fernando.

Organisers say the event will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange knowledge, benchmark practices, and engage directly with experts on emerging regulatory and operational risks.

For details contact Jane on 076-3666-246 or [email protected].