By: Staff Writer
July 24, Colombo (LNW): In a significant step toward embracing next-generation technologies, the Sri Lankan government has intensified its push to develop artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and strengthen national cybersecurity infrastructure.
These efforts are part of a broader agenda to accelerate digital transformation through strategic international partnerships and institutional reforms.
The government has recognized that adopting cutting-edge AI and new IT systems must go hand-in-hand with robust cyber threat mitigation measures to ensure the safety and integrity of public digital services.
As part of this forward-looking initiative, Sri Lanka is set to commence joint research with Singapore on AI technology development.
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Digital Economy and the National University of Singapore (NUS).
The MoU will focus on collaboration with “AI Singapore,” a national-level program managed by NUS, which aims to explore opportunities for knowledge sharing and joint efforts that align with Sri Lanka’s strategic vision for AI development.
According to the Department of Government Information, high-level discussions have already taken place on forming a partnership with AI Singapore to address both local and global technological challenges.
The proposal, submitted by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as Minister of Digital Economy, seeks to formalize cooperation to enhance Sri Lanka’s AI capabilities through academic and practical programs, research initiatives, and bilateral exchanges.
Simultaneously, the government is taking decisive action to strengthen its cybersecurity framework. The Cabinet has approved the establishment of a Cyber Threat and Malware Analysis Research Unit within the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (Sri Lanka CERT).
This unit will be responsible for identifying and mitigating cyber threats, enhancing malware analysis capabilities, and developing skilled professionals in cybersecurity to protect the country’s rapidly expanding digital infrastructure.
The new research unit is intended to bolster the nation’s cyber resilience, which is increasingly crucial as Sri Lanka implements major digital projects.
These include the Sri Lanka Digital Identity Card Project, the National Data Sharing Digital Platform, and the ongoing expansion of the Lanka Government Cloud, all of which aim to streamline government operations and public services through digitalization.
The government has emphasized that establishing a secure and trusted cyberspace is fundamental to the success of these digital initiatives. As such, cybersecurity development will continue in tandem with digital reforms under the Digital Economy Ministry.
These efforts underscore Sri Lanka’s commitment to harnessing international collaboration and innovation in AI while ensuring the security and resilience of its digital future. The twin focus on technology advancement and cybersecurity readiness represents a proactive approach to modern governance in the digital age.
