By: Staff Writer
October 27, Colombo (LNW): Dialog Axiata PLC has further strengthened its position as Sri Lanka’s telecommunications leader by expanding its 5G trial network across 15 districts, reaffirming its role in advancing the nation’s digital transformation. The company now operates the country’s largest 5G trial infrastructure, offering thousands of users across urban and rural areas the opportunity to experience next-generation connectivity.
The 5G trial network now spans Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kandy, Kurunegala, Puttalam, Anuradhapura, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, Matara, Batticaloa, Ampara, Trincomalee, Jaffna, and Kilinochchi, with further expansion planned. This extensive coverage provides the foundation for future commercial 5G deployment and supports Sri Lanka’s ambition to position itself as a digitally empowered economy.
Since conducting South Asia’s first 5G demonstration in 2018, Dialog has consistently remained at the forefront of technological innovation. The company has achieved multiple milestones, including Sri Lanka’s first 5G Standalone (SA) network trial and the introduction of Voice over 5G (VoNR) on a live network demonstrating its readiness for full-scale 5G implementation once regulatory approvals are granted.
Commenting on the expansion, Dialog Axiata Group Chief Technology Officer Ranga Kariyawasam said the move marks a major step forward in shaping the nation’s digital future. “Extending our 5G trials across the country underscores our commitment to empower individuals, businesses, and communities through advanced technology,” he said. “As Sri Lanka’s most advanced and fastest 5G-ready network, we continue to invest in innovation that enables progress in the digital economy.”
The expansion not only highlights Dialog’s technological leadership but also aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader national strategy to enhance digital infrastructure and connectivity. With ultra-low latency, high-speed data transfer, and improved reliability, 5G technology promises transformative impacts across multiple sectors—including entertainment, education, healthcare, manufacturing, and enterprise operations.
Industry experts note that 5G is expected to revolutionize how Sri Lankans connect, work, and innovate, paving the way for smart cities, remote education, telemedicine, and industrial automation. As the nation moves toward greater digital integration, Dialog’s proactive investments in infrastructure are seen as a vital component in realizing these ambitions.
Dialog Axiata, a subsidiary of Axiata Group Berhad of Malaysia, remains committed to expanding its technological footprint and accelerating Sri Lanka’s readiness for a fully connected future. With its continued focus on digital inclusion and innovation, the company aims to deliver world-class experiences that support the nation’s journey toward becoming a competitive, technology-driven economy.
