Publication Details

EXPANDING THE USE OF ALTERNATIVE WATER RESOURCES - MALAYSIA EXPO 2020 DUBAI (MALAYSIA PAVILION)

Malaysia is a country that is blessed with abundant water resources where the country experiences continuous rainfall throughout the year, large number of rivers and underground water resources that have not been fully utilised. However, seasonal water shortages have been encountered especially in the recent past. This is likely to occur more frequently in the future stemming from the demands of a rapid development and population growth. The situation is expected to be further exacerbated by potential threats from impending climate change and water pollution. Hence, the sustainable use of water requires a shift in strategy towards greater water demand management (WDM). Currently, WDM is one of the main focus of the Government and several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) and Forum Air Malaysia (FAM). The WDM includes improvement of efficiency of supply and use, reducing water leakage and wastage, recycling of water, rainwater harvesting, and the use of market-based instrument. There is also the need for awareness campaigns and public education programmes focusing on the importance of water and the need for conservation. The target is to encourage more efficient and prudent use of water to ensure there is adequate and sustainable water resources in the future.