An information session was held at the Sri Lanka High Commission in Singapore on August 16th to introduce a new biometric-based national data system by the Department of Registration of Persons, Sri Lanka

Singapore, 30 August 2024 — An information session was conducted at the Sri Lanka High Commission in Singapore on August 16th to update the staff about the upcoming implementation of a new national data system by the Department of Registration of Persons, Sri Lanka. The system, which will utilise biometric data, is set to introduce a “Unique ID Number” for all citizens, aiming to enhance service delivery in various governmental sectors.

During the session, Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, the Commissioner-General of the Department of Registration of Persons and Attorney-at-Law, provided a detailed explanation of the new system’s framework. He emphasised that under Act No. 32 of 1968, the department is responsible for establishing and maintaining a national data system that authenticates individual identities through official documentation, such as national identity cards. The new system will replace traditional data collection methods with biometric data, including fingerprints, facial recognition, and retina scans, to improve accuracy and efficiency in service delivery.

The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Singapore, H.E. Senarath Dissanayake, organised the event during an official visit by the Commissioner-General. The High Commissioner expressed gratitude for the session and highlighted the importance of the new system in enhancing the efficiency of services provided by diplomatic missions. The staff of the High Commission was given the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification on the new procedures, particularly those related to document attestation by the Consular Section.

The session was attended by several key members of the High Commission, including Minister/Head of Chancery, Mr. Ahamed Razee, Minister Counsellor, Ms. Nanduni Govinnage, Minister (Commerce), Mr. Yasantha Yaddehi, and Counsellor (Labor and Welfare), Mr. Dhammika Wijerathna, along with other staff members.

Source: High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore