Published Date : 10/16/2025Â
Sri Lanka has taken a significant step towards bolstering its digital infrastructure and cybersecurity with the inauguration of the National Cyber Security Operations Centre (NCSOC) and the launch of the National Cyber Protection Strategy (2025-2029). The event was presided over by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's digital transformation journey.
The NCSOC, established in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy and with technical support from the World Bank, will serve as a central hub for monitoring and mitigating cyber threats. The centre will provide round-the-clock surveillance for 37 critical institutions, including the Department of Immigration and Emigration, the Department of Motor Traffic, and the Department of Inland Revenue. Its primary responsibilities include continuous monitoring of cyber threats, issuing timely alerts, and safeguarding government systems and public digital services.
The National Cyber Protection Strategy 2025-2029 is designed to create a secure, reliable, and inclusive digital ecosystem. The strategy outlines a robust legal and administrative framework for cybersecurity, aiming to develop a skilled workforce knowledgeable in cybersecurity practices. It also emphasizes enhancing public awareness, particularly among schoolchildren, and boosting the readiness of state institutions.
One of the key objectives of the strategy is to augment the capabilities of the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT), which plays a crucial role in protecting entities managing critical digital infrastructure. The strategy also promotes collaboration among various stakeholders to nurture a secure cyberspace, ensuring that both the public and private sectors can operate securely in the digital realm.
The benefits of the NCSOC and the Cyber Protection Strategy are multifaceted. They include operational continuity, swift response capabilities, cost efficiency, compliance with regulatory standards, and building trust among users. By ensuring the resilience of digital systems and providing early warnings, the NCSOC will help prevent and mitigate cyber threats, thereby safeguarding the nation's digital infrastructure.
The launch of the NCSOC and the Cyber Protection Strategy represents a significant advancement in Sri Lanka's digital economy transformation. These initiatives are expected to fortify the nation's cybersecurity framework, enhance public and private sector operations, and contribute to the overall growth and development of the digital landscape in Sri Lanka.Â
Q: What is the National Cyber Security Operations Centre (NCSOC)?
A: The NCSOC is a central hub established to provide round-the-clock monitoring and mitigation of cyber threats. It will oversee 37 critical institutions and safeguard government systems and public digital services.
Q: What is the National Cyber Protection Strategy 2025-2029?
A: The National Cyber Protection Strategy 2025-2029 is a comprehensive plan designed to create a secure, reliable, and inclusive digital ecosystem in Sri Lanka. It focuses on developing a skilled workforce, enhancing public awareness, and boosting the readiness of state institutions.
Q: Who launched the NCSOC and the Cyber Protection Strategy?
A: The NCSOC and the Cyber Protection Strategy were launched by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, marking a significant step in Sri Lanka's digital transformation journey.
Q: What are the key benefits of the NCSOC and the Cyber Protection Strategy?
A: The key benefits include operational continuity, swift response capabilities, cost efficiency, compliance with regulatory standards, and building trust among users.
Q: How will the NCSOC and the Cyber Protection Strategy enhance Sri Lanka's digital economy?
A: By fortifying the nation's cybersecurity framework, enhancing public and private sector operations, and contributing to the overall growth and development of the digital landscape in Sri Lanka, the NCSOC and the Cyber Protection Strategy will significantly enhance the digital economy.Â