The flagship events of Sri Lanka AI Week 2026, initiated by the Ministry of Digital Economy and SLT-MOBITEL, officially commenced yesterday (29 September) at Monarch Imperial, Colombo, with the participation of Eng. Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy.
Sri Lanka AI Week 2026 began on September 25, with the flagship AI Conference and AI Exhibition taking place on September 29 and 30. The programme brings together leading technology professionals, innovators, industry experts and companies exploring the future of artificial intelligence.
The two-day AI Conference features more than 60 speakers representing 16 countries, while the AI Exhibition showcases the work of more than 35 exhibitors. The exhibition highlights a range of AI-powered technologies and solutions from leading global and local brands, including Huawei, ZTE, Sampath Bank, Snowflake, EDOTCO, Connex and NCINGA.
The opening ceremony was attended by Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister; Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy; Rtd. Air Vice Marshal Bandula Herath, Director General of Telecommunications Regulatory of Sri Lanka; Dr. Mothilal De Silva, Chairman of SLT Group; and Riyaaz Rasheed, CEO of SLT-MOBITEL, along with other distinguished guests and invitees.
The AI Exhibition will remain open today, 30 September, from 8.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. at Monarch Imperial, Colombo, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience AI technologies and explore their practical applications.
Visitors can discover AI-powered solutions, interact with emerging technologies and gain insights into how both global and local companies are leveraging artificial intelligence across industries and everyday experiences. The event also provides a platform for industry stakeholders and the public to engage with the opportunities and potential of AI as Sri Lanka advances its digital transformation.
New Anthoney’s Farms Sets Sights on Expanding Markets Beyond Sri Lanka – Emil Stanley
New Anthoney’s Farms began as a startup in 1986, founded by Emil Stanley and his wife, Marie, with a simple vision of providing Sri Lankan consumers with higher-quality chicken than what was available in the market at the time. Over the years, the company has grown into a recognised poultry producer, distinguished by its focus on quality, sustainability and responsible farming practices.
Today, New Anthoney’s Farms holds the distinction of being Sri Lanka’s first green-certified poultry producer, reflecting its long-standing commitment to environmentally responsible operations.
In an exclusive interview, New Anthoney’s Farms Chairman and Co-founder Emil Stanley and his son, Executive Director Eranga Kurukulaarachchi, discussed the company’s journey, product philosophy and commitment to sustainable poultry production.
Asked about the key message the company wants to communicate to potential customers, Emil Stanley said the business has always focused on producing chicken that is hygienic, safe, tasty and accessible to consumers of all ages.
He explained that when the company was established, he and his wife were determined to provide a quality poultry product at a moderate price. The company later introduced antibiotic-free chicken as part of its efforts to add greater value to its products.
According to Stanley, New Anthoney’s Farms follows sustainable farming practices without the use of antibiotics, while placing strong emphasis on the triple bottom line of economic, social and environmental responsibility.
He noted that the transition towards antibiotic-free poultry production initially required significant investment in research and development, the sourcing of high-quality raw materials and the introduction of stringent quality-control measures throughout the production process.
The company, he said, remained committed to maintaining these standards without compromise.
New Anthoney’s Farms now focuses on poultry production based on strict biological and quality standards, with the ultimate objective of providing consumers with antibiotic-free meat.
Stanley further described the company’s products as an extension of its commitment to corporate social responsibility, while noting that the products are offered at moderate prices to ensure greater accessibility.
Sri Lanka AI Week 2026 Sparks Dialogue on AI and the Nation’s Digital Future
