Singapore's PUB signs MOUs to boost global partnership on water-related R&D

NATIONAL water agency PUB has signed two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to boost Singapore's collaboration with global partners on knowledge sharing and capability building in water-related research and technology.

The first MOU was signed with the ASEM (Asia-Europe Meeting) Water Resources Research and Development Centre, and the second with VCS Denmark, the country's third largest water and wastewater utility.

Both MOUs were signed on the sidelines of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) on Tuesday.

Established in Hunan, China, in 2011, ASEM Water Resources Research and Development Centre aims to promote sustainable water resources development in Asia and Europe through science and technology.

The MOU with PUB will allow the centre to tap on Singapore's experience in water quality management and energy recovery from the used water reclamation process, while enabling PUB to access networks among ASEM members to strengthen its understanding of leading-edge solutions in Asia and Europe.

The MOU was signed by Harry Seah, PUB's chief technology officer, and Duan Zhixiong, assistant secretary-general of ASEM Water Resources Research and Development Centre.

Mr Duan said: "Singapore is a very important partner given its strength in sustainable water management. We hope to deepen the cooperative relationship in integrated water resources management with PUB through joint research and technology innovation in areas of mutual interest."

Meanwhile, the MOU with VCS Denmark follows an earlier MOU between Singapore's Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources and the Danish Ministry of Environment during 2014's SIWW.

The MOU was signed by Tan Yok Gin, PUB's deputy chief executive (operations), and Gerda Hald, VCS Denmark's deputy CEO.

Said Ms Hald: "Through this agreement to cooperate in a wide spectrum of technical and institutional areas with PUB, VCS anticipates many benefits that will allow us to improve in the ways we serve our customers, while continuing our efforts to contribute positively to the advancement of the water industry around the world."

Mr Tan added: "These strategic partnerships will enable us to tap on the synergies gained from the exchange of valuable technical knowledge and experiences, and strengthen the networks and links we have built with the global water world."