The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) has elected Felix A. Fernando as its new Chairman at the Forum’s 22nd Annual General Meeting, marking the start of a new leadership term for Sri Lanka’s apparel industry at a pivotal stage of its development.

Felix Fernando succeeds Saifuddin Jaferjee, who concluded his tenure following a year shaped by significant global and domestic challenges, including evolving trade dynamics, regulatory pressures, and climate-related disruptions.

Reflecting on his tenure, the outgoing Chairman said, “This industry has once again demonstrated resilience in the face of uncertainty. I am confident that the incoming leadership will continue to advocate strongly for competitiveness, market access, and long-term sustainability, while keeping the collective interests of Sri Lankan apparel at the forefront.”

Accepting the role, JAAF Chairman, Felix A. Fernando, thanked the membership for its confidence and outlined his priorities for the period ahead.

“It is a privilege to be entrusted with this responsibility at such an important juncture for both the industry and the country. Leadership in an industry body is ultimately about service, relevance, and delivering outcomes that strengthen our national export base,” he said.

Emphasising the need for continued evolution, Fernando added, “Sri Lanka’s apparel sector must remain globally competitive, agile, and outward-looking. JAAF will continue to work closely with policymakers and stakeholders to improve the ease of doing business, advance sustainability, and secure long-term growth for the industry.”

Felix Fernando is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Omega Line Ltd. and brings over 35 years of manufacturing experience, including nearly three decades in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. He has played a central role in building Omega Line into one of the country’s leading apparel export groups, employing over 15,000 people across multiple BOI-approved manufacturing facilities. A Fellow Member of CIMA (UK) and a Certified Global Management Accountant, he also brings strong international exposure through executive education at Harvard Business School, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, the National University of Singapore, and AOTS Japan. He is a recognised voice in industry leadership and policy dialogue on apparel exports and competitiveness.

The JAAF Executive Committee for 2026 will be chaired by Felix Fernando, with Aroon Hirdaramani and Hemantha Perera serving as Vice Chairmen. The Committee also includes past chairmen Saif Jaferjee, Sharad Amalean, A. Sukumaran, Noel Priyathilake, Azeem Ismail, and Ashroff Omar, providing continuity and institutional experience.

The duly appointed representatives of JAAF’s member associations are Husni Salieh of the Fabric and Apparel Accessory Manufacturers Association, Dhammika Fernando of the Free Trade Zone Manufacturers Association, Rajitha Jayasuriya of the Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association, and Wilhelm Elias of the Sri Lanka Apparel Sourcing Association. The appointed individual members of the Executive Committee are Mahesh Hirdaramani, Ajith Wijesekera, Jafar Sattar, Anis Sattar, Rehan Lakhany, Mahika Weerakoon, and Indika Liyanahewage.