Dr. Manilka Sumanatillake 132nd President of the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA)
It is with profound humility and gratitude that I assume the Presidency of the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA), the nation’s most prestigious professional body for medical doctors.
Building upon the monumental legacy of my predecessors, my vision for 2026 is centered on the theme “Wellness in the Nation through Local and Global Partnerships.” My goal is to steer this hallowed organization toward achieving holistic health for every Sri Lankan by leveraging strategic domestic and international collaborations.
To realize this vision, we advocate for a decisive shift toward patient-centered care and the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). By prioritizing the prevention of conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, we can ensure sustainable health outcomes and redirect vital resources toward a more effective and resilient healthcare system.
In 2026, we are committed to reaching the unreached and amplifying the voices of the marginalized. A key priority this year is Men’s Health, addressing the urgent and often overlooked physical and mental health challenges facing men in our society. Furthermore, we remain dedicated to strengthening medical education, fostering a profession deeply rooted in ethical practice and humanitarianism.
I invite all my colleagues, the government, NGOs, media, and all other stakeholders to partner with the SLMA as we navigate the path toward total wellbeing for all. Together, let us unite under our shared mission: “Serving the Profession, Serving the Nation.”
Sri Lanka Medical Association