The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, requested the Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, H.E. Dewi Gustina Tobing, to share Indonesia’s valuable experiences and expertise—particularly in sectors such as agriculture—with the Northern Province.
A delegation comprising the Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, H.E. Dewi Gustina Tobing, and the Deputy Ambassador met with the Governor of the Northern Province at the Governor’s Secretariat on Friday afternoon – 31st October 2025 for discussions.
The Governor, speaking on the needs and challenges of the Northern Province, outlined the development initiatives currently being implemented under the present government. He emphasized that the government has identified the key priorities of the province and is taking the necessary measures to address them. The Governor further noted that missing this moment would mean losing a significant opportunity for the province’s development.
The Governor stated that while the Northern Province is among the most prosperous regions in Sri Lanka, it is unfortunate that it also remains at the forefront of poverty. He further noted that, despite the vast potential in agriculture and fisheries, the absence of factories to convert these resources into value-added products has become a major obstacle to the province’s economic progress.
Pointing out that Indonesia is a leader in agriculture—particularly in rice cultivation—the Governor requested that Indonesia share its valuable experiences with farmers in the Northern Province. He specifically sought the exchange of technologies and methods related to short-term rice production and modern agricultural systems.
In response, the Ambassador shared insights into Indonesia’s agricultural practices, highlighting the successful use of mixed fertilizers and other innovations. She also expressed her willingness to share Indonesia’s agricultural experiences with the Northern Province.
The Governor further stated that it would be beneficial for the Northern Province to learn from Indonesia’s experience in addressing the impacts of climate change, as Indonesia regularly confronts similar environmental challenges.
The Ambassador mentioned that Indonesia had experienced a whitefly infestation on coconut trees many years ago but had since successfully brought the situation under control. Responding to the Governor’s request, she expressed readiness to share the measures and strategies implemented to manage and eradicate the pest.
The Secretary to the Governor, Mr. S. Sathyaseelan; the Assistant Secretary to the Governor, Mr. K. Ehanthan; and the Coordinating Secretary to the Governor, Mr. R. Sarvanantha, were also present at the discussion.
