Rainwater Harvesting Initiative Launches in Johor Bahru Schools with Local Partners Water Watch Penang, Gravity Water and Clean International Supported by Microsoft
The launch of Rainwater Harvesting Installations at schools across Johor Bahru marks an important milestone in a collaborative initiative that will ultimately equip 42 schools with sustainable water systems. To date, 14 of the 42 schools have been launched, representing significant progress toward improving water sustainability and resilience in the region.
The project is led by Water Watch Penang, Gravity Water, Cloudwell and CLEAN International with the support of Microsoft, promoting sustainable water management, environmental education and community resilience. Once complete, the initiative will benefit more than 21,000 students and teachers by improving daily access to water while fostering hands-on learning about conservation and sustainability.
A launch event at SK Kompleks Uda in Johor Bahru brought together local government representatives, school leaders, and community partners to celebrate the milestone. The ceremony featured remarks from local officials and a demonstration of the rainwater harvesting system. It also highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing water challenges and showcased Microsoft’s commitment to advancing sustainable solutions that create lasting community impact.
Together, the systems will collectively capture an estimated 8.4 million litres of rainwater each year. The harvested water will support daily sanitation needs such as handwashing and toilet facilities, while also sustaining school gardens and reducing operational costs.
The Cloudwell Water Technology systems are designed with first-flush diversion and multi-stage filtration technology to ensure safe and effective use. Microsoft volunteers and Water Watch Penang are helping integrate environmental lessons and student engagement activities, empowering the next generation to take part in building a more sustainable future.
The Johor initiative demonstrates how community-based, nature-driven solutions can create lasting impact. Each system installed through this partnership captures more than rain—it captures hope for a more sustainable and water-secure future, one where every drop counts.
This project showcases how partnerships between NGOs, technology companies and education departments can create meaningful impact for both people and the environment. Together, with the support of Microsoft, we are not only providing water-saving solutions — we are cultivating environmental awareness among students and future generations.
Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Chan Ngai Weng, President of Water Watch Penang
The project builds on Microsoft’s broader sustainability commitments to protect natural resources, restore ecosystems, and improve global water access. Through partnerships like this, Microsoft continues to advance innovation, empower local communities, and drive progress toward a more resilient planet.
About CLEAN International
CLEAN International is a global nonprofit dedicated to providing and protecting water through locally led, nature-based solutions. Working with communities, partners and volunteers, CLEAN focuses on measurable, long-term impact.
About Gravity Water
Gravity Water is a global nonprofit that combines rainwater harvesting, filtration and storage technologies to provide schools and communities with reliable access to safe, sustainable water. The organisation’s mission is to turn rain into a consistent source of clean water for those most in need.
About Cloudwell Water Technologies (M) Sdn Bhd
Cloudwell is a social enterprise building water security through rain for at-risk communities. Their technology has been used for the rainwater harvesting systems.
About Water Watch Penang
Water Watch Penang is a Malaysia-based non-profit focused on water conservation, education and advocacy. Through community engagement and school-based programmes, the organisation works to raise awareness about sustainable water use and to inspire a new generation of environmental leaders.