Sri Lankan-born Canadian politician Vijay Thanigasalam has been appointed as Ontario’s first-ever Associate Minister of Artificial Intelligence Adoption, marking a new chapter in his political career and another significant milestone for the Tamil-Canadian community.
Vijay Thanigasalam, who represents Scarborough-Rouge Park as a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP), took on the new portfolio on September 10, 2026. He will work alongside Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Victor Fedeli to support the province’s efforts in expanding the adoption and use of artificial intelligence.
The new role will focus on encouraging the practical adoption of AI across Ontario, supporting innovation and strengthening economic opportunities linked to the rapidly growing technology sector.
From Sri Lanka to Ontario
Born in Sri Lanka, Vijay moved to Canada at the age of 14 and eventually built his political career in Scarborough, Toronto. Before entering politics, he pursued a career in finance and worked with major Canadian banks.
He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from Ontario Tech University and later completed a Master of Business Administration at Queen’s University. During his early years in Canada, he was also actively involved in community organisations and volunteering in Scarborough.
Vijay Thanigasalam was first elected as the MPP for Scarborough–Rouge Park in 2018 and has continued to represent the riding under Ontario’s Progressive Conservative Party. He has since held several roles in the provincial cabinet, including Associate Minister of Transportation, Associate Minister of Housing and Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.
He has also been recognised as the first Tamil Canadian to serve in Ontario’s provincial cabinet, making his latest appointment particularly notable for the Tamil-Canadian community.
A New Focus on Artificial Intelligence
With AI increasingly influencing businesses, employment and economic development, Vijay Thanigasalam’s new portfolio places him at the centre of Ontario’s efforts to expand the use of the technology.
Announcing his appointment, Vijay Thanigasalam said he was deeply humbled and honoured by the opportunity and thanked Premier Ford for his continued trust in him.
He also expressed his ambition to help position Ontario as the AI Capital of Canada, highlighting the province’s existing strength in artificial intelligence and its potential to create further economic opportunities.
For the Sri Lankan and Tamil-Canadian community, Vijay Thanigasalam’s journey from Sri Lanka to provincial cabinet leadership and now into a newly created AI portfolio reflects his continued rise in Canadian public service.
Source: Vanakkam Malaysia, Vijay Thanigasalam X
