National Fuel Pass Receives Prestigious Digital Inclusion Award at GSMA M360 APAC 2023

Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC receiving the ‘Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award’ award at GSMA M360 APAC 2023.

The GSMA M360 APAC 2023 Awards honoured Dialog Axiata PLC with the prestigious ‘Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award’ for its exceptional use of mobile technology in digitally advancing the nation, as exemplified through the 'National Fuel Pass' initiative, developed in collaboration with partners MillenniumIT ESP and ICTA, under the aegis of the Ministry of Power and Energy.

The National Fuel Pass was introduced in August 2022 to effectively manage fuel distribution amidst limited resources. This innovative system has not only brought much-needed stability to the nation's social and economic sectors but also served as a valuable platform for data and market analysis, facilitating informed policy decisions. Dialog’s submission on the National Fuel Pass won the ‘Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award’ for its contribution of mobile technology towards digital inclusion in the advancement of digital transformation of a nation.

“This year we received numerous compelling stories and shortlisted 15 videos. Dialog Axiata PLC was awarded the “Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award”, which was selected for its compelling narrative and exceptional portrayal of mobile technologies role in promoting digital inclusion and advancing a nation’s digital transformation”, said Julian Gorman, Head of APAC, GSMA.

Speaking on the initiative, Hon. Kanchana Wijesekera, Minister of Power and Energy said, “The National Fuel Pass initiative was truly a groundbreaking endeavour that has played a pivotal role in stabilizing our nation's social and economic sectors. This innovative system stands as a testament to the power of innovation and effective collaboration. We are proud to see it recognised with the 'Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award' at GSMA M360 APAC 2023, a well-deserved recognition of its transformative impact.”

Commenting, Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC said, “We are honored to receive the 'Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award' at GSMA M360 APAC 2023. Our commitment to using mobile technology for national progress is exemplified by the National Fuel Pass initiative developed and implemented together with our partners MillenniumIT ESP and ICTA, under the guidance of the Ministry of Power and Energy. This achievement reflects our dedication to utilising the power of technology to foster and advance a digitally inclusive Sri Lanka."

Commenting, Shevan Goonetilleke, CEO of MillenniumIT ESP said, “Rolling out the National Fuel Pass nationwide was a significant challenge, but our collaboration and support during a national crisis were a major achievement. We are thrilled that the National Fuel Pass has clinched the prestigious 'Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award' at GSMA M360 APAC 2023. Embarking on such a vital project to aid in resolving a national crisis, and partnering with Dialog Axiata and ICTA, allowed us to bring technology to the forefront of positive change, significantly enhancing the lives of the Sri Lankan community.”

The M360 APAC Digital Nations Awards 2023, held in South Korea, saw organisations from the global mobile ecosystem showcase their pivotal roles in providing access to critical information, fostering digital inclusion, connecting the unconnected, and promoting sustainable economic growth.