COLOMBO : Colonel Nalin Herath, the former Director General of the Institute of National Security Studies and Spokesman for the Ministry of Defence in Sri Lanka, is set to take on a new leadership role. Pending approval of his formal premature retirement by the Sri Lanka Army Headquarters, he will join the board as Executive Director with Ambassador Saroja Sirisena, Mr Dinuk Hettiarachchi, Mr. Hirantha Goonasekara, Dr. Nirmal De Silva, Air Vice Marshal Waruna Gunawardana (Retd), Rear Admiral T. W. W. Leelarathna (Retd), Air Commodore Mahasen Herath (Retd).
Colonel Herath’s extensive background in national security and defense communications has made him a respected figure in military and governmental circles. His experience leading the Institute of National Security Studies equipped him to address complex security challenges, while his role as Ministry of Defence spokesman showcased his skills in public communication and diplomacy. He is expected to leverage his expertise to further strengthen national security initiatives and foster strategic collaborations. This career transition marks a significant step for Colonel Herath as he continues to contribute his knowledge and leadership beyond active military service.
South Asia Sustainability & Security Research Institute (SASSRI) The South Asia Sustainability & Security Research Institute (SASSRI) was officially launched on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the Mahogany Ballroom, Cinnamon Grand Colombo. Vision of SASSRI is; A stable, prosperous and well-governed South Asia that safeguards people, nature, and opportunity for generations. Mission is; Mobilize knowledge, partnerships, and innovation to advance sustainability, security, and resilience in South Asia.
The gathering convened a distinguished assembly of attendees, including Ambassadors/High Commissioners, Senior officials from the Government of Sri Lanka, representatives from the Tri Forces, leaders from the private sector, scholars from academic institutions, members of policy think tanks and other delegates from diplomatic missions, as well as development partners and other notable individuals. The landmark event was followed by a high-level joint roundtable discussion with Synergia Foundation, India on “Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region”. The inauguration of the South Asia Sustainability & Security Research Institute (SASSRI) featured several landmark moments marking the Institute’s formal launch. The event commenced with the unveiling of the official SASSRI introductory video and the reveal of the Institute’s logo, symbolizing its vision of advancing sustainability and security dialogue across the South Asian region.
SASSRI intends to generate interdisciplinary research, shape evidence-based policies, and promote regional dialogue to address pressing issues such as climate change, resource management, socio-economic disparities, and geopolitical tensions.South Asia Sustainability & Security Research Institute (SASSRI)
Further special remarks were delivered by Dr Ganeshan Wignaraja and Lt Gen Kandhare, while Dr. Harinda Vidanage delivered the keynote address. Lieutenant General G. A. V. Reddy (Retired), Chief Strategic Officer of the Synergia Foundation and Former Director General of the Defence Intelligence Agency, India applauded SASSRI’s mission and stressed that “Think tanks and research institutes like SASSRI play a critical role in connecting state policy, defence establishments, and civil society. By fostering dialogue and producing evidence-based insights, they enable nations to move from reactive responses to proactive strategies in ensuring security and sustainability. “The event also witnessed the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Strategic Research and Growth Foundation India, the Synergia Foundation India, and the Maldives Policy Think Tank, symbolizing SASSRI’s intent to act as a regional convener for knowledge-sharing and collaborative action.
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