Chevaan Daniel Elected Vice-President of World's Largest Broadcasting Union | Historic appointment marks first Sri Lankan vice-presidency in the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union's 63-year history

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA | 2 NOVEMBER 2026 Sri Lankan journalist, business leader and international media figure Chevaan Daniel has been elected Vice-President of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU), marking a historic milestone for Sri Lanka's representation in international media leadership.

The ABU, recognised as the world's largest broadcasting union, brings together approximately 225 media organisations across 66 countries, including some of the most influential public and commercial broadcasters in the world.

Established in 1964 and headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the organisation plays a significant role in advancing international broadcasting cooperation, media development, technological innovation, professional standards and the collective interests of broadcasters.

Daniel becomes the first Sri Lankan to hold the position of Vice-President since the organisation's establishment.

His nomination was proposed by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC Australia) and seconded by Japan's national public broadcaster, NHK, reflecting the support of two of the region's most influential broadcasting institutions.

The election took place during the ABU's 63rd General Assembly in Colombo, hosted by the Maharaja Media Network.

From Journalism To International Leadership

Daniel is Group Director of the Capital Maharaja Group and leads the Maharaja Media Network, one of Sri Lanka's largest private media organisations, with interests spanning television, radio, digital media, music and entertainment. His professional career spans nearly three decades, beginning in journalism and broadcasting before progressing into senior corporate and media leadership.

His international professional experience includes NBC News in New York, while his wider leadership engagement extends across media, business, humanitarian development and international cooperation.

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Daniel leads the Gammadda Movement, a community-driven humanitarian and development initiative that has mobilised partnerships and public participation to address critical needs across rural Sri Lanka.

His work has increasingly focused on the intersection of journalism, public responsibility, institutional leadership and the role of media in strengthening communities.

The appointment comes as Sri Lanka hosts the ABU General Assembly for the first time, bringing together leading international broadcasters and media executives in Colombo.

Daniel's election represents a significant development in Sri Lanka's participation in international media governance and provides an opportunity for the country to contribute more prominently to discussions shaping the future of broadcasting across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.