Industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, exhibitors, speakers, sponsors, and distinguished delegates are gathering for the three-day WaterTech Asia 2025 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC).
Representing Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow, the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai, officiated the inaugural event.
Participants from Canada, China, Indonesia, Qatar, and various Malaysian states are also in attendance.
Notable VIPs include Dato’ Mohd Rodzwan Mohd Baba Sakri, Deputy Secretary-General (Water) of the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA); Dato’ Ir. Pathmanathan Krishnan Kutty Aman Nair, Group Chief Executive Officer of PBA Holdings Berhad and the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP); and Datuk Seri Ir. Jaseni Maidinsa, Chairman of Water Asset Management Berhad (PAAB), among others.
In his opening address, Wong welcomed both local and international delegates to the gathering.
“Water is more than a resource—it is a strategic asset. In a world shaped by rapid urbanisation, climate uncertainty and accelerating industrial demand, a nation’s strength is increasingly measured by its ability to secure and manage water sustainably. Penang recognises this responsibility clearly.
“The State Government is advancing one of the most significant long-term water-security initiatives in northern Malaysia: an interstate collaboration with the Perak State Government under the Northern Perak Raw Water Supply Scheme. This project involves transferring raw water from Sungai Perak for treatment and shared distribution between Penang and Perak,” he said.
He added that once implementation begins, the project is expected to be operational by 2031, providing a stable medium- to long-term raw water reserve to support both states’ future needs.
WaterTech Asia 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment for Malaysia and the region, as the water-technology sector undergoes rapid transformation through artificial intelligence, smart sensor networks, predictive analytics, and sustainable treatment innovations.
