Sri Lanka’s telecommunication industry highly competitive - Greg Young

Shirajiv SIRIMANE

A brief introduction of yourself and your stay in Sri Lanka so far?

My wife and I are both Australians and have spent the past 8 years living and working in many exciting places outside Australia. I have been in Sri Lanka for 3 ½ years, having moved from living and working previously in the USA, and prior to that India and Australia.

Your view of the Telecom industry in Sri Lanka?

The telecommunication industry in Sri Lanka is highly competitive with significant choice for consumers; it delivers modern services on a par with global standard, and with very low cost to the consumer. Our voice call charges are among the lowest in the world.

What are SLT’s future plans?

SLT is rapidly investing in the development of our networks; our investment this year is three times higher than the average of over the last 10 years. We are expanding the reach and coverage, the capacity and significantly increasing the performance, particularly for broadband and our fixed customers. With our recently revamped megaline product fixed line customers can enjoy single play(voice), double play(broadband) and triple play(Peo TV) services, all delivered over their fixed line with a single bill.

Can you tell us a little about SLT’s CSR initiatives?

SLT is actively involved in many CSR activities, through which we continue to build and strengthen relationships with our stakeholders and get involved in their day to day lives, to make a difference and add value to their lives through our technology and our community building projects. Our key themes revolve around empowering individuals and organizations, as well as providing our support towards causes that include protecting the environment, supporting communities, customer experience, employee experience and economic impact. Under communities, we do various projects such as book distributions, helping to build hospitals and wards, preserving heritage for tomorrow, help for lessfortunate children, sponsorship of professional bodies and events etc.

What is your view of Sri Lanka today?

Having seen firsthand significant changes since my first visit to Sri Lanka in 2008, and through living here permanently since early 2009, the changes are many. Sri Lanka today has a mood of optimism, change and growth that is exhibited through the reconstruction and infrastructure development, the unfettered freedom of movements and the progress in economic advancement.

Your opinion on working in Sri Lanka ?

Living and working in Sri Lanka brings different challenges, as each country has its unique differences and cultures.

I find the country very beautiful and have had the opportunity to visit all parts and experience the welcome and friendliness from locals all over.

The staff at SLT and all of my friends and colleagues are always ready with helpful advice and valuable guidance.

What is your vision for Sri Lanka?

My vision is for the country to prosper economically and develop strong internal capabilities and export potential, that will collectively improve the living standards of all Sri Lankans countrywide. At SLT, our vision is closely aligned with this.

Our Vision “All Sri Lankans seamlessly connected with world-class information, communication and entertainment services.”

Can you recall an unforgettable incident in Sri Lanka? Please tell us a little about it.

Not many weeks after arriving into Colombo, I experienced first had, an air raid over the city, this remains one of my earliest memories of a new and unique experience.

What is your favourite place to holiday in Sri Lanka?

I very much enjoy the coast and beach and my favorite destination is Kosgoda with its unspoiled beaches where its easy to get away and relax in peace.