The Sri Lanka Association of Printers (SLAP) was founded in 1956, with Mr. M.D.A. Wijesinghe serving as its first President. Since its inception, the Association has grown steadily from strength to strength, evolving into the leading voice of Sri Lanka’s printing industry.
Over the decades, SLAP’s rich heritage has been shaped by the dedication and vision of its past presidents and members, whose unwavering commitment guided the industry through both challenges and triumphs. Each leader has played a vital role in advancing the Association’s mission, passing the torch of progress to their successors.
We take great pride in honouring their invaluable contributions and preserving the legacy they have built—a legacy that continues to inspire innovation, unity, and excellence in Sri Lanka’s printing fraternity.
Janaka Rathnakumara is a highly experienced and dedicated corporate business leader and sustainability consultant with expertise in circular economy, renewable energy, energy conservation and management, environmental management, carbon neutrality, quality management, and productivity development. With 20 years of diverse professional experience in leadership positions, including Chairman, CEO, COO, GM, and Consultant, Janaka has a proven track record of driving sustainable development and delivering successful projects.
Janaka is a Chartered Engineer, Chartered Environmental Professional and has completed a range of advanced educational qualifications, including an MSc in Sustainable Energy Engineering from KTH, Sweden, an MSc in Finance from Asia e University, Malaysia, and a BSc (Hons) in Engineering (Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering) from the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka. Additionally, Janaka has completed several professional training programs and holds certifications and working as an international consultant in areas such as ISO 9001-2015, ISO 14001-2015, ISO 50001-2018, ISO 12647-3-2013, ISO 14051-2013, Renewable Energy, Energy Management and Conservation, Chemical Leasing, Responsible Care, Cleaner production, Green Productivity and Accredited Professional in Green Building practices.
Throughout his career, Janaka has contributed significantly to various organizations. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer/ Director at Times School of Higher Education, Group Chief Operating Officer at Wijeya Newspapers Ltd. and a Director at Times Digital Solutions (Pvt) Ltd., he plays a crucial role in driving sustainable practices within these companies. Previously, Janaka served as the Chairman of the State Printing Corporation, where he successfully transformed a loss-making institution into a profitable and sustainable organization.
Janaka's expertise extends to project management, and he has led several key initiatives. Notable projects include being the Team Leader for the Asian Productivity Organization Industry Focus Project on Green Productivity and Material Flow Cost Accounting, and Project Manager for the Europe Sri Lanka Capacity Building in Energy Circular Economy. He has also introduced innovative technologies and practices, such as digital printing, augmented reality on exercise books, and digital loyalty card systems.
Janaka's achievements have been recognized nationally and internationally. He has received awards and accolades, including Global Green Award, Business Leader Award, National Productivity Awards, National Cleaner Production awards, WAN-IFRA ISO 12647-3 Certification, Global Chemical Leasing award, and Taiki Akimoto 5S Competition Award, among others.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Janaka actively participates in professional affiliations and organizations, including being a member of the Expert Committee appointed by the Ministry of Power in Sri Lanka, National Productivity Award 2025/2026 Operation Committee member of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, the President of the Sri Lanka Association of Printers (SLAP) 2025-2027, and a member of the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL), Chairman of Marketing and Communication committee and council Member of Institute of Environmental Professional Sri Lanka (IEPSL), and many more institution to provide his knowledge and experience with others. He is also involved in various sustainability-focused committees and serves as a technical advisor for projects related to sustainable power generation and efficient process management.
Janaka is a sought-after speaker and has presented at international conferences and seminars on topics such as energy management, circular economy, sustainable practices in Printing and Manufacturing, and Environmental sustainability. He also shares his expertise as a visiting lecturer and has delivered presentations at state universities and private sector institutions.
With a passion for sustainability, a wealth of experience in Business development, and a strong commitment to driving positive change, Janaka Rathnakumara continues to contribute to the advancement of sustainable practices and the profitability of industries he serves.
Eng. Janaka Rathnakumara
The Sri Lanka Association of Printers (SLAP) is led by a dynamic and forward-thinking Executive Committee for the year 2025–2026, comprising industry leaders, innovators, and professionals committed to advancing Sri Lanka’s printing sector.
This dedicated team provides strategic direction, oversees key initiatives, and upholds the Association’s vision of fostering growth, innovation, and collaboration within the industry. Working hand in hand, our Executive Members, Committee Representatives, and Administrative Staff continue to strengthen SLAP’s role as a trusted voice, a supportive network, and a progressive force driving the future of the printing industry in Sri Lanka.
