Leading telecommunications service provider Ncell has replaced its Managing Director Simon John Perkins with Suren J Amarasekera. Perkins, according to the company, will assume a new role at the head office of Axiata, Ncell’s parent company, in Kuala Lumpur supporting South Asia operations.

Amarasekera brings with him 25 years of extensive experience in the telecommunications industry, including nine years of experience as chief executive officer (CEO) and 16 years of senior management experience in globally renowned telecom companies such as Singapore Telecommunications, Sri Lanka Telecom’s Mobitel, Maxis Berhad in Malaysia and Aircel Limited in India, says a statement issued by Ncell. 

“I am proud to have been given this opportunity. I am looking forward to joining Ncell and building on the brand to be one that is loved by its consumers, while contributing to the vision of digital Nepal and delivering on Axiata’s vision of advancing Asia,” the statement quotes Amarasekera as saying. 

Amarasekerahas has previously served as strategic projects director in Axiata Group Berhad’s corporate headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, focusing on key group initiatives across its South Asian operations in Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. 

The board directors of Ncell have stated they are confident that Ncell will achieve new milestones under his leadership, including digital inclusion for the overall advancement of the country. 

The latest appointment comes at a time when Ncell is mired in capital gains tax controversy that erupted after European telecom giant Telia sold the company to Malaysian telecom giant Axiata.