📉 SLTDA Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam Steps Down Ahead of Major Campaigns

• Leadership Change: Joint Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), Buddhika Hewawasam, has resigned as SLTDA Chairman, effective 17 August 2026. He cited personal reasons, noting he had initially agreed to hold the dual post for one year but extended his tenure at the request of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. • Strategic Focus: Hewawasam will remain focused on executing upcoming interim market-specific promotional campaigns to maintain visibility ahead of the winter travel season, as well as preparing for the planned Rs. 3.5 Bn global destination branding campaign slated for late 2026 or early 2027. • Sector Impact: The transition comes at a critical time for tourism, a pivotal sector for foreign exchange earnings and employment in Sri Lanka's economy. • Succession: Suranjith Wevita is expected to be appointed as the new SLTDA Chairman by Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath, though official confirmation was pending as of yesterday.