Colombo, October 17, 2025 – In a significant milestone for the sports journalism community in Sri Lanka, Minister of Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage officially launched the website of the Sri Lanka Sports Journalists Association (SLSJA) during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Sports Auditorium. This initiative aims to enhance the visibility of sports journalism, promote professional development, and serve as a hub for news and resources related to sports reporting in the country.
The event witnessed the presence of notable figures including SLSJA President Susanthika Premachandra, General Secretary Karuppiah Ramakrishnan, Treasurer Sampath C. Perera, and members of the executive committee, marking an important occasion for the association and its members.
In his opening remarks, Minister Gamage lauded the SLSJA for its commitment to fostering sports journalism in Sri Lanka. “Sports journalism plays an essential role in the development of sport in our nation. It informs, inspires, and engages the public,” he stated. “Today, as we unveil your official website, we are not just launching a digital platform; we are creating an avenue for growth and recognition of the invaluable contributions made by sports journalists. I extend my congratulations to the newly elected office bearers and assure you that the Ministry of Sports will continue to support your endeavors.”
The launch of the SLSJA website is more than just a digital presence; it is an essential tool for communication and collaboration among sports journalists, fans, and stakeholders in the sports community. The platform promises to provide timely updates on sports events, training programs, and industry news, all while fostering a sense of community among its members.
President Susanthika Premachandra outlined the association’s future initiatives, emphasizing a commitment to professional development. “We are poised to conduct internationally recognized training programs tailored for sports journalists, aimed at enhancing their skills and standards,” she affirmed. “Moreover, we are dedicated to promoting gender balance in sports journalism, paving the way for more women to occupy notable positions in this field.”
General Secretary Karuppiah Ramakrishnan highlighted the association’s social responsibility initiatives, announcing plans for a friendship cricket tournament in collaboration with the Colombo Journalists Association. This tournament is set to honor the memories of late journalists Sunil Abeyagunawardene, Palitha Senarath Yapa, and Kapila Krishantha. “It’s essential that we remember our colleagues who have contributed significantly to our field. This tournament will serve as a fitting tribute,” he stated.
In addition, Treasurer Sampath C. Perera provided insight into the association’s upcoming health insurance project for members, which he described as a “dream project” nearing completion. “We recognize the unique challenges faced by sports journalists, and providing health insurance is a critical step in ensuring their wellbeing,” Perera explained, expressing pride in the efforts made to bring this initiative to fruition.
The launch of the SLSJA website and the discussions during the ceremony reflect a broader vision of strengthening the professional, social, and welfare facets of Sri Lanka’s sports journalism community. As the SLSJA embarks on this journey, the commitment to fostering a rich sporting culture through informed journalism is evident.
In conclusion, the launch represents a promising future for sports journalism in Sri Lanka, with the potential to significantly impact the way sports are reported and consumed. As sports fans, stakeholders, and aspiring journalists look to the SLSJA for guidance and support, the association stands ready to lead the way in promoting excellence, integrity, and inclusivity in sports journalism. With the backing of the Ministry of Sports and the dedication of its members, the SLSJA is poised to elevate the standards of sports reporting, ensuring that the pulse of Sri Lanka’s sporting spirit continues to resonate far and wide.