Malaysia International Water Convention 2023: Sustainability Takes Centre Stage

The Malaysia International Water Convention (MIWC) 2023, the region’s premier event for water industry professionals, is poised to gather over 650 thought leaders, innovators, and practitioners from diverse sectors to address the critical challenges facing the water industry and explore sustainable solutions for a water-secure future. Held under the theme “Sustainability: Transforming Vision into Action,” the event will take place from  4 – 7 December 2023, at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur. MIWC 2023 is anticipated to draw over 3,500 visitors from across the globe.

During MIWC event in 2019 (Photos: Protemp Group)

The event is organised by the Malaysian Water Association (MWA) and PROTEMP Group, with Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara (SPAN) as the co-organiser. The Convention is supported by the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change; the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation; and the Ministry of Health Malaysia, the Malaysian Water Engineers Action Committee, and the Malaysian Water Partnership.

MIWC 2023 will commence with an Opening Ceremony on December 5 2023. Dr. Ir. Ts. Hj. Mohmad Asari Daud, President of the Malaysian Water Association, will deliver the welcome address, followed by an opening speech from YB Dato’ Seri Huang Tiong Sii, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change (NRECC).

With a comprehensive programme featuring a Conference, Dialogues, Forum, Exhibition, Workshop, Lab Visit, Technical Tours, and Networking Reception, MIWC 2023 will provide a platform for participants to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange knowledge, and discover cutting-edge technologies and solutions that can transform the water industry.

The 2-day Conference on 5-6 December will feature over 40 sessions covering the latest advancements, innovations, and best practices in the water industry in a wide range of topics, including:

  • Sustainable water management and governance
  • Water resource conservation and efficiency
  • Water treatment and reuse technologies
  • Innovative approaches to water infrastructure development
  • Minimising Waste and Maximizing Efficiency: Non-Revenue water management
  • Adapting to Change: Resilience in the Face of Climate Disruption

MIWC 2023 will host three crucial dialogues and forums: the SPAN Dialogue, the River Basin Management Dialogue, and the Roadmap for the National Agenda on Water Sector Transformation 2040 (WST2040).

The SPAN Dialogue will focus on the theme “Sustainability: Transforming Vision into Action,” exploring innovative strategies and actionable steps towards a sustainable water supply in Malaysia. Panellists will discuss transformative initiatives that can drive water sustainability, addressing challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and climate change.

The River Basin Management Dialogue, titled “Flowing River Without Borders,” will explore best practices in sustainable and integrated river basin management within and beyond boundaries. Prominent practitioners and experts will share their experiences in managing transboundary basins, addressing issues of water security, water rights, basin authorities, and transboundary cooperation.

The Roadmap for the National Agenda on Water Sector Transformation 2040 (WST2040) forum will outline the implementation strategies, goals, and key performance indicators for the transformation of Malaysia’s water sector. The forum will discuss the potential economic benefits of a transformed water sector, including a value-add of RM13.3 (USD2.85) billion and a contribution of 0.46 per cent to the national GDP.

The Malaysian Water Engineers Action Committee (MyWAC) will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM). This year’s AGM will delve into the detrimental effects of human activities, such as sand dredging, boathouse renting, and livestock farming, on the water quality of neighbouring water bodies. Proposed solutions and regulations to address these concerns will be presented for thorough deliberation and consensus among all members before further actions are taken.

In preparation for the event, participants will gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in water treatment through pre-event lab visits and technical tours. On 4 December, a visit to Hydrolytics MetLab will showcase sophisticated water quality testing and analysis techniques. Participants will then tour the Setia Alam Water Reclamation Plant, witnessing the circular economy principles in action as wastewater is transformed into reusable water. On December 7th, participants will explore the Langat Regional Sewage Treatment Plant, gaining a first-hand understanding of wastewater treatment processes and their significance in environmental protection. These immersive experiences will equip participants to contribute to the advancement of sustainable water management practices.

MIWC 2023 will host an expansive exhibition featuring the latest technologies, products, and services from leading companies and organisations across the water and wastewater sector. This dynamic platform will provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements and innovations shaping the future of water management.

Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of cutting-edge solutions, from water treatment technologies that ensure clean and safe drinking water to smart water metering systems that optimise resource utilisation. Additionally, the exhibition will showcase innovative approaches to water infrastructure development, financing, and governance, providing insights into the strategies that are transforming the water sector globally.

Whether you are a water industry professional, a policymaker, or an individual with a passion for environmental sustainability, the MIWC 2023 exhibition is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights, discover solutions, and contribute to the shaping of a water-secure future for all.

About Malaysian Water Association (MWA)
The Malaysian Water Association (MWA) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the water industry in Malaysia. Founded in 1988, MWA brings together practitioners from various sectors to promote sustainable water management practices. The association’s key activities include conferences, training, research, and advocacy.

About PROTEMP Group
PROTEMP Group is a renowned event management company with a track record of organising successful international conferences and conventions. With a focus on excellence and collaboration, PROTEMP Group delivers impactful events that foster meaningful dialogue and progress in various industries.

About Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara
Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara (SPAN) is the national regulatory body for the water services industry in Peninsular Malaysia and Federal Territory of Labuan. SPAN plays a vital role in ensuring the efficient and sustainable management of water services, promoting industry best practices, and safeguarding the interests of consumers.