Sri Lanka’s record-breaking javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage was honoured by Uswatte Biscuits Pvt Ltd, his official sponsor, at a special felicitation ceremony held on 22 June 2026 at Vinro Reception Hall, Kennanthudawa. The event, hosted in his hometown, brought together family, friends, neighbours, and well-wishers who have supported his journey since childhood, creating a heartfelt celebration of his achievements.
The ceremony celebrated a series of historic performances that have elevated Sri Lanka’s presence in international athletics, while recognising Pathirage’s remarkable rise on the global stage.
His breakthrough season has seen unprecedented success, most notably at the 2026 Rome Diamond League, where he registered a throw of 92.62 metres, setting a new Sri Lankan record and producing the world-leading javelin throw of the season. The feat also placed him among the all-time greats, ranking eighth in history at the time.
He further continued his winning momentum with victory at the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in the Czech Republic, where he secured first place with a throw of 86.57 metres against a strong international field. He also delivered a winning performance at the Diamond League meet in Doha, Qatar, further strengthening his position and contributing to his rise to World No. 2 in the global rankings.
These achievements have brought immense pride to Sri Lanka, highlighting the country’s ability to produce world-class athletes capable of competing at the highest level of international sport.
Speaking at the event, Shankar Perera, Managing Director of Uswatte Biscuits Pvt Ltd, congratulated Pathirage on his accomplishments and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Sri Lankan talent that brings global recognition to the country.
Uswatte Biscuits, one of Sri Lanka’s leading biscuit manufacturers with over 70 years of industry presence, continues to strengthen its footprint locally and internationally while supporting initiatives that uplift communities and celebrate national excellence.
In recognition of his achievements, Uswatte Biscuits presented a cash award of Rs. 2.5 million to Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, while his coach, Tony Prasanna, received Rs. 500,000 in appreciation of his contribution.
The event also marked the beginning of a long-term partnership, with Uswatte Biscuits pledging continued support for Pathirage’s preparations towards the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, reaffirming its commitment to standing by him in his pursuit of an Olympic medal for Sri Lanka.
Beyond celebrating sporting success, the occasion served as a powerful reminder of the impact of talent, dedication, and community support in shaping a national sporting icon.
Three Tower companies launch Sri Lanka Digital Infrastructure Forum to strengthen national connectivity
Recognising that digital infrastructure is a critical driver of economic growth, investment, and national competitiveness, three licensed telecommunications infrastructure service providers in Sri Lanka have launched the Sri Lanka Digital Infrastructure Forum (SLDIF), the country’s first industry platform dedicated to advancing telecom infrastructure development and supporting its digital future.
The Forum brings together infrastructure service providers licensed under Section 17B of the Sri Lanka Telecommunications Act. Its founding members are EDOTCO Services Lanka (Private) Limited, SGH TowerCo (Pvt) Ltd, and Tantri Trailers (Pvt) Ltd.
As Sri Lanka accelerates digital transformation across government, businesses, and communities, reliable telecom infrastructure has become a key enabler of economic growth, innovation, investment, and social inclusion. The SLDIF has been established as a non-profit, non-political industry body aimed at supporting the development of a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready digital infrastructure ecosystem.
The Forum will serve as a unified industry platform to engage with the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL), government ministries, local authorities, policymakers, and other stakeholders on matters relating to infrastructure planning, deployment, and policy development.
SLDIF will also promote infrastructure sharing, encourage safe and sustainable deployment practices, strengthen industry collaboration, and help address regulatory, environmental, and operational challenges affecting the sector. By fostering cooperation across the ecosystem, the Forum aims to accelerate network expansion, improve investment efficiency, extend connectivity to underserved communities, and support Sri Lanka’s broader digital economy ambitions.
Commenting on the launch, Gayan Koralage, Country Managing Director of EDOTCO Services Lanka (Private) Limited, said:
“Around the world, countries that have successfully accelerated digital transformation have done so through strong collaboration between industry, regulators and government.”
Uswatte Biscuits partners Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage on his Olympic journey
