Ministry: Hosting World Water Congress in Kuching can boost investment, partnerships

KUCHING (Aug 13): Hosting the International Water Association (IWA) World Water Congress & Exhibition (WWCE) 2028 in Kuching could serve as a catalyst for attracting investments and initiating long-term collaborations.

Besides that, it will connect international and regional water industry players with local companies, while helping to find solutions for the water infrastructure challenges faced by Sarawak, said the Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Ministry.

“WWCE is one of the largest global events organised by IWA. This event covering the full water cycle and brings together the world’s leading experts in the water sector to advance the solutions that will deliver safe, sustainable and equitable water future. WWCE will also showcase the latest innovations, technologies and experiences in the water sector.

“With the biennial event moving from one location to location, each edition offers an opportunity to highlight regional issues and expertise and to strengthen connections within and beyond the region,” the ministry said in a press release.

The press release was issued after the soft-launch of the event, officiated by Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi in Canada on Monday.

The ceremony was attended by IWA president Tom Mollenkopf, executive director Prof Kala Vairavamoorthy, Malaysian Water Association (MWA) regional director for Asia and Oceania Dr Hong Li, MWA president Dr Ir Ts Mohmad Asari Daud and MWA Sarawak branch chairman Kelvin Kuek Hann Yih, according to a press statement from the Sarawak Utility and Telecommunication Ministry.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had announced on Sept 16, 2023 that Kuching was the first in the Asean region selected to host the WWCE.

The ministry said the prospects of IWA’s presence in Asean region holds the promise of igniting transformative discussions, forging impactful partnerships and enhancing the capacity of the entire region to address its water challenges.