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IT is time for the country's water industry to adopt green practises and technology as it pivots towards a circular economy to address climate change.
Making this call was Pengurusan Asset Air Berhad (PAAB) chairman Datuk Seri Jaseni Maidinsa, a veteran water conservationist expert.
Jaseni said that the industry must embrace innovation and the latest tech if it wants to stay ahead of the threats from climate change such as drought, pollution and flooding.
He was speaking at the inaugural Water Tech Asia conference and exhibition at the newly opened Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC).
The event was launched by state executive councillor Wong Hon Wai and later Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his deputy Jagdeeo Singh Deo, also visited the event.
Jaseni said that the exhibition can allow for water concessionaires to tap the latest tech available in water supply chains as well as in conservation and preservation.
"We want our water supply efforts to go green; to be part of green sustainability efforts and of the circular economy where wastage is limited."
Jaseni spoke about the latest tech available in Japan where water residues from treatment plants can be recycled into a component for land reclamation.
It can replace sand as part of the reclamation process, said Jaseni.
The water management industry in Malaysia has developed tremendously from its humble beginnings since the country gained independence in 1957.
The industry, a critical sector that focuses on the management, treatment and distribution of water resources, encompasses a wide range of activities, including supply, wastewater treatment, conservation and management of water resources.
It plays a vital role in ensuring the availability of clean and safe water for various uses, such as drinking, agriculture, industry and environmental sustainability.
The event also allows for crucial networking session among the 80 exhibitors and professionals in the industry.
Penang is seen as a water-stressed state due to limits in water resources and catchment areas; it has relied heavily on its neighbours namely Kedah and Perak to help fill the shortage of supply.
Jaseni sees that eventually desalination may be the only option for the island state to pursue, like how Singapore is extracting seawater for its consumers.
But the costs is incredibly high - tied to the power rates of Tenaga Nasional Berhad, so for now Jaseni is imploring on water concessionaires to find new ways to extract, supply and conserve the precious commodity. -