News Today: Prominent Sri Lankan Industrialist Harry Jayawardena Passes Away

Prominent Sri Lankan industrialist and businessman Deshamanya Harry Jayawardena has passed away at the age of 82. Recognized as one of the most influential business figures in Sri Lanka, Jayawardena played a pivotal role in shaping the corporate landscape of the country.

A Legacy in Business and Industry

Don Harold Stassen Jayawardena, widely known as Harry Jayawardena, was the Chairman of Melstacorp PLC and served as the Honorary Consul General for Denmark in Sri Lanka. Over the decades, he built a business empire spanning multiple industries, leaving a lasting impact on Sri Lanka’s economy.

His leadership extended to some of Sri Lanka’s most significant corporations. He had served as Chairman of Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka (DCSL) and Aitken Spence, two of the country’s largest business entities. Under his guidance, these companies achieved remarkable success and global recognition.

Forbes Recognition and Global Influence

Harry Jayawardena’s business acumen earned him a place among Sri Lanka’s richest individuals, as recognized by Forbes. His leadership at Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka (DCSL) and Aitken Spence helped position them as the first Sri Lankan companies ever listed on Forbes’ list of best-managed companies outside the USA.

A Lasting Business Legacy

Jayawardena’s contributions to Sri Lanka’s corporate sector extended beyond profits—he was instrumental in job creation, economic growth, and foreign investment. His strategic leadership at Melstacorp PLC helped drive innovative business expansions, making the conglomerate one of Sri Lanka’s most diversified enterprises.

His passing marks the end of an era in Sri Lanka’s corporate world, with many industry leaders, business professionals, and well-wishers mourning the loss of this visionary entrepreneur.

As the nation reflects on his remarkable achievements, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Sri Lankan business leaders.