A Zero-Antibiotic Future: New Anthoney's Farms Leads the Charge Against AMR in Sri Lanka

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rapidly emerging as one of the most pressing global health challenges of the 21st century, threatening the effectiveness of life-saving medicines, food security, and public health worldwide. As resistant infections continue to rise, they undermine routine medical procedures and impose growing economic burdens. In this context, New Anthoney's Farms is taking decisive steps in Sri Lanka to address AMR at its roots, demonstrating that responsible, sustainable farming practices are both achievable and essential.

Leading the National Conversation on AMR

Central to this advocacy was the recent Forum on Antimicrobial Resistance, held at The View, Waters Edge Colombo on 24 November 2025. Organized by New Anthoney's Farms, the event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, healthcare professionals, veterinary experts, development partners, and media representatives—a testament to the company's commitment to fostering cross-sector collaboration.

Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary of Health, attended as Chief Guest, alongside Dr. Momoe Takeuchi, Officer in Charge of WHO Sri Lanka, as Guest of Honor. Dignitaries from state institutions, private industry, medical circles, and international agencies including FAO participated in this carefully curated platform for knowledge sharing and actionable recommendations.

The forum featured a distinguished expert panel examining AMR from multiple angles. Dr. Palika S. Fernando addressed veterinary bacteriology, regulatory frameworks, and antimicrobial alternatives. Dr. Renuka Jayatissa spoke on public health nutrition, stewardship programs, and science-based communication. Dr. Susil Silva highlighted sustainable animal nutrition and antibiotic-free livestock production. Dr. Kushlani Jayatillake discussed human health impacts and the National Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System. Moderated by Dr. Vindya Perera, the panel facilitated dynamic audience interaction, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human and animal health in combating AMR.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Complementing high-level policy engagement, New Anthoney's Farms prioritized grassroots education. In collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Ruhuna, the company hosted an AMR Awareness Session for students, aiming to inspire the next generation of agricultural professionals.

The session featured leading experts including Dr. Subodha Wickramasinghe, Head of Microbiology at Ruhuna's Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Chandima Gajaweera, Prof. Indunil Pathirana, and Dr. Lahiru Sandaruwan, a veterinary surgeon. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and practical examples, students explored the scientific, regulatory, and societal dimensions of AMR. The session emphasized antimicrobial stewardship, responsible food production, and the broader implications of antibiotic misuse—cultivating a generation that will carry forward principles of sustainable, antibiotic-free production.

Empowering Employees for Change

New Anthoney's Farms recognizes that internal engagement is crucial to its AMR mission. The company recently conducted a staff awareness program at its Hanwella premises, educating employees about antibiotic misuse dangers and the significance of producing truly antibiotic-free chicken.

The session highlighted the company's Harithahari line of chicken, raised entirely without antibiotics, providing staff with insights into the practices, monitoring, and ethical considerations underpinning safe and sustainable poultry production. By embedding AMR awareness into corporate culture, New Anthoney's Farms ensures every workforce member is aligned with its mission, fostering collective responsibility for public health and food safety.

A Comprehensive Approach

These initiatives coincided with World AMR Awareness Week 2025, observed globally under the theme "Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future." New Anthoney's Farms' activities reflect a comprehensive approach: combining policy engagement, public advocacy, education, and corporate responsibility.

The company demonstrates that combating AMR requires coordinated action across government, industry, academia, and civil society. By showcasing both high-level forums and grassroots engagement, New Anthoney's Farms provides a replicable model for other producers in Sri Lanka and the wider region.

Championing a Zero-Antibiotic Future

A cornerstone of the company's approach is its commitment to producing 100% antibiotic-free chicken, directly addressing one of AMR's root causes. By raising poultry without antibiotics, New Anthoney's Farms minimizes the risk of developing resistant bacterial strains in the food supply chain. This proactive stance benefits consumers, public health authorities, and the agricultural ecosystem while setting a benchmark for ethical farming practices in Sri Lanka.

The company proves that responsible production and commercial success are not mutually exclusive—ethical practices enhance brand credibility, consumer trust, and long-term sustainability.

Looking Forward

Through multi-faceted initiatives, New Anthoney's Farms is shaping Sri Lanka's AMR conversation. The combination of policy dialogue, student engagement, and employee education positions the company as both leader and catalyst for change, exemplifying how private sector actors can address systemic public health challenges while complementing government policies and global health agendas.

By sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and promoting best practices, the company contributes to building resilience in Sri Lanka's food and health systems, ensuring antibiotics remain effective for future generations.

New Anthoney's Farms aims to expand its advocacy efforts, engage more stakeholders, and continue setting benchmarks in antibiotic-free poultry production. The company envisions a future where Sri Lanka leads the region in sustainable livestock farming—informed by science, guided by ethics, and driven by commitment to public health.

The journey toward a zero-antibiotic future in Sri Lanka requires collaboration at every level. New Anthoney's Farms has shown that private enterprises can spearhead this movement through policy engagement, education, internal awareness, and exemplary production practices. As AMR continues to pose a global threat, the leadership and action demonstrated by New Anthoney's Farms provide a compelling blueprint for responsible agriculture—one where public health and sustainable production go hand in hand.