10th WaterLoss Asia Returns this October, Introducing the NextWave Innovation Awards

WaterLoss Asia (WLA) 2026 returns for its milestone 10th edition from 20-22 October 2026 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, bringing together water utilities, government agencies, regulators, researchers, technology providers and industry leaders to address one of the region’s biggest water challenges Non-Revenue Water (NRW).

WLA 2024 Exhibition Walkabout

Organised by PROTEMP Exhibitions & Conferences Sdn. Bhd., the three-day event has grown into one of Asia’s leading platforms for knowledge exchange, technology showcase and regional collaboration on water loss management. This year’s programme features a two-day international conference, a dedicated NRW technical workshop, an international technology exhibition, technical paper presentations, business matching sessions, executive networking programmes and live technology demonstrations.

Water security continues to be a growing concern across Asia. Ageing infrastructure, leaking pipelines and unauthorised consumption result in millions of litres of treated water being lost every day. As utilities work to modernise their networks while meeting increasing demand and climate challenges, WaterLoss Asia 2026 provided a platform to share proven approaches, practical experiences and emerging technologies.

Held under the theme, “Securing Asia’s Water Future: Innovating for Reduced Water Loss and Non-Revenue Water,” the conference will explore smart water technologies, artificial intelligence, digital water networks, advanced leak detection, pressure management, District Metered Areas (DMA), asset management, climate resilience and ESG-driven water governance.

Now in its 10th edition, WaterLoss Asia has grown from a regional gathering into a recognised meeting place for utility executives, regulators, engineers, researchers and technology providers working to reduce Non-Revenue Water. Previous editions have brought together water utilities, government ministries, municipal authorities, engineering firms, technology companies, research institutions and industry associations, creating opportunities for technical exchange and long-term collaboration across the region.

WaterLoss Asia 2024 by the Numbers
WaterLoss Asia 2024 reinforced its position as one of Asia’s leading platforms for non-revenue water (NRW) management, bringing together 415 conference delegates, 53 distinguished local and international speakers, and participants from 21 countries. The concurrent exhibition also welcomed 4,175 trade visitors, reflecting strong industry engagement and regional collaboration. These achievements underscore WaterLoss Asia’s continued role in advancing knowledge exchange, innovation and sustainable water management across Asia.

WaterLoss Asia 2026: Fully Supported by the International Water Association (IWA)
WaterLoss Asia 2026 is honoured to be fully supported by the International Water Association (IWA), reaffirming the event’s standing as a premier platform for advancing non-revenue water (NRW) management and sustainable water solutions across Asia. The conference is chaired by Gary Wyeth, Chair of the IWA Water Loss Specialist Group and a globally recognised expert in water loss management with extensive experience advising water utilities and organisations worldwide. His leadership and technical expertise, together with IWA’s strong support, will ensure a high-calibre conference programme that promotes knowledge exchange, international collaboration and practical solutions to address the region’s evolving water challenges.

A major addition to this year’s programme is the inaugural NextWave Innovation Awards, organised by PROTEMP, chaired by UTM-IPASA, and led by a Chief Juror from the National Water Services Commission (SPAN). Held alongside the exhibition, the awards recognise individuals and organisations whose ideas and technologies are already making a meaningful impact on the water sector, while highlighting excellence and innovation in addressing today’s water challenges.

Entries will be evaluated through on-site assessments based on innovation, originality, technical merit, sustainability, feasibility and real-world impact. The judging panel in chaired by Prof. Ts. Dr. Zainura Zainon Noor, FASc, Director of the Centre for Environmental  Sustainability and Water Security (IPASA), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and is led by a Chief Juror from the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), ensuring a rigorous, transparent and industry-relevant evaluation process.

Submissions for the NextWave Innovation Awards 2026 open on 30 July 2026 and close on 5 October 2026. Evaluation will take place on 20 October 2026 by on-site judging during WaterLoss Asia 2026. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony during the event.

Registration is now open for conference delegates, exhibitors, sponsors and participants of the NextWave Innovation Awards.

Abstract submissions for technical papers close on 15 August 2026. Early Bird registration in also available until 15 August 2026, with special rates for organisations registering three or more participants. Water professionals, researchers and subject matter experts are invited to share research, case studies and practical experiences that can help address today’s water challenges.

If your work touches the water whether in utilities, government, research or technology, this is your opportunity to be part of the conversation. Join industry peers in Kuala Lumpur this October to exchange ideas, discover proven approaches and build partnerships that continue long after the event ends.

Full details on speaker submissions, award categories, registration and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.waterlossasia.com.

About PROTEMP Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd
PROTEMP Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd is one of the leading Malaysian organisers of trade shows, exhibitions and conferences, specialising in innovation, technology and business development events. With a strong track record of delivering high-impact platforms, PROTEMP connects industry, government, academia and international partners to foster collaboration, showcase innovations and drive economic and technological growth in Malaysia and the region.