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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has described the international accolade received by Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) as a reflection of Malaysia’s growing commitment to strengthening sustainable water and sanitation management in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030 agenda.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, said the achievement demonstrated the country’s continued efforts to build a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient future through environmentally responsible infrastructure development and clean energy adoption.
“May this success continue to inspire stronger efforts to build a more sustainable, inclusive and prosperous nation for future generations,” he said in a statement posted on Facebook.
The Prime Minister’s remarks followed IWK’s victory at the Global Water Awards 2026 held in Madrid, Spain, where the national sewerage company secured the SDG6 Award for its renewable energy-driven sanitation initiative titled “Solar-powered Sanitation: No Upfront Cost, Cuts Emissions”.
The award recognised IWK’s efforts in integrating renewable energy solutions into wastewater treatment operations while simultaneously enhancing infrastructure sustainability, operational efficiency and long-term financial resilience.
The winning programme involved the installation of solar energy systems at 16 sewage treatment plants nationwide through a Private Financing Initiative (PFI) model aimed at reducing dependence on conventional electricity sources.
According to details released on the initiative, the project generates approximately 6.3 megawatt peak (MWp) of solar energy capacity and produces an estimated 7,700 megawatt hours (MWh) of renewable electricity annually.
The renewable energy output supports the treatment of nearly 148 million cubic metres of wastewater each year while substantially lowering operational energy costs.
The initiative is also expected to deliver savings of almost RM41.8 million in electricity expenses from the national power grid, alongside reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than five gigagrams annually.
The recognition places Malaysia among countries increasingly adopting clean technology solutions within critical public utility sectors as governments worldwide intensify efforts to meet climate targets and improve environmental governance standards.
Industry observers described the award as a significant milestone for Malaysia’s sustainable infrastructure ambitions, particularly as water security, energy efficiency and climate resilience become central priorities within global development frameworks.
Anwar Praises Frontline Healthcare Workers For Their Sacrifice
Separately, Anwar today visited Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) to observe the hospital’s operations and personally meet members of the public undergoing treatment at the country’s largest public healthcare institution.
During the visit, the Prime Minister spent time speaking with patients and members of the public while extending prayers and well wishes for their recovery and wellbeing.
“I took the opportunity to observe operations at HKL today while greeting and asking after members of the public receiving treatment.
“My prayers are that they are granted healing, that all matters are eased for them, and that they continue to be blessed with strength,” he said in a post shared on social media.
Anwar also conveyed his appreciation to healthcare workers at HKL, acknowledging their continued sacrifices and commitment in caring for patients under demanding conditions.
“Thank you to all healthcare personnel at HKL who continue to serve with patience and compassion.
“It is a tremendous sacrifice in safeguarding lives and protecting the welfare of the people every single day,” he said.
The visit comes amid continued government emphasis on strengthening Malaysia’s healthcare services and recognising the contributions of frontline medical workers who remain central to the country’s public healthcare system. - May 22, 2026
