KUALA LUMPUR: Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) managed to clinch not one but two awards at the 2023 Asian Water Awards, organised by Asian Power, that was held at the Westin Kuala Lumpur yesterday (November 8).
Asian Power is a quarterly publication geared towards power, water and oil & gas industries in the Asia Pacific region.
The awards won, namely the Collaborative Water Initiative of the Year – Malaysia and Water Technology Excellence Award (Water Resource Management) – Malaysia, are a result of the efforts and dedication put in by PAAB thus far to ensure water security for the nation.
"These awards serve as a testament to the unrelenting dedication, innovation and expertise that PAAB embodies.
"The 2023 Asian Water Awards victory is not merely a feather in our cap, but a reminder of our mission as an effective and innovative form of water resource management," said PAAB's Acting Chief Executive Officer, Ir. Zulkiflee Omar.
The Collaborative Water Initiative of the Year – Malaysia award was achieved thanks to PAAB's distinctive model, which involves the harmonious coordination of various stakeholders, including federal and state governments, state water operators, and the Finance Ministry (MoF).
This award symbolises PAAB's commitment to forging strong partnerships that drive the water industry forward.
Meanwhile, PAAB's comprehensive approach to water asset management, migration of assets and addressing Non-Revenue Water (NRW) issues is recognised as an effective and innovative form of water resource management, winning it the Water Technology Excellence Award (Water Resource Management) - Malaysia.
The Water Technology Excellence Award (Water Resource Management) – Malaysia award reinforces PAAB's commitment to the sustainable and efficient management of our most precious resource, water.
"I would like to take this opportunity to emphasise the importance of water security, which must be a national priority.
"With proper investment, we have the power to overcome water loss, rejuvenate our rivers, and also build infrastructure that will keep businesses thriving," said Zulkiflee in his acceptance speech.
He expressed appreciation to PAAB staff, the Malaysian government and various authorities including MoF (Finance Ministry), NRECC (Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry), SPAN (the National Water Services Commission) for being part of PAAB's journey.
Zulkiflee also emphasised the importance of all parties working together to ensure a sustainable, water-secure future for all. – Bernama