August 18, Colombo (LNW): Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Developmen Professor Anil Jayantha Fernando recently concluded a productive visit to Singapore, aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation on labour mobility and economic engagement.
From August 11 to 13, 2025, Prof. Fernando was in Singapore to participate in the ‘Invest Sri Lanka Investor Forum,’ an event jointly organised by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka and the Colombo Stock Exchange, with the support of the Sri Lankan High Commission in Singapore.
The forum brought together a range of investors, policymakers, and business leaders, showcasing Sri Lanka’s economic potential and reform agenda.
On the sidelines of the forum, Prof. Fernando held a series of high-level meetings with Singaporean ministers, including Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth & Manpower, and Alvin Tan, Minister of State for National Development. Discussions focused on creating structured pathways for Sri Lankan workers to access employment in Singapore, particularly in sectors facing labour shortages.
In his meeting with Minister Vasu Dash, Prof. Fernando highlighted the need for mutual recognition of qualifications and the development of targeted training programmes that align with Singapore’s industry standards.
He also advocated for expanding job opportunities for Sri Lankan professionals in key areas such as eldercare, hospitality, healthcare services, and light manufacturing.
Minister Vasu Dash responded positively, reiterating Singapore’s continued interest in sourcing skilled labour from Sri Lanka and ensuring fair working conditions and professional development opportunities for migrant workers.
Both sides acknowledged the growing importance of well-regulated, ethically managed labour migration and agreed to explore mechanisms to enhance transparency and worker welfare.
Additionally, Prof. Fernando convened a separate discussion at the Sri Lankan High Commission with representatives of Singapore-based employment agencies that recruit from Sri Lanka. The session focused on improving recruitment practices, ensuring the rights and safety of workers abroad, and maintaining strong communication between government bodies and private sector intermediaries.
