Dr. Ir. Ts. Hj. Mohmad Asari Daud
President
2023-2025 Session

President’s 2025 New Year Message

Dear Members of MWA, supporters and stakeholders,

As we approach the end of a successful year, I am pleased to reflect on the activities that have served our members and stakeholders within the water industry. 2024 has been marked by significant events that have strengthened our commitment to advancing water management in Malaysia.

One of the highlights of the year was the Water Malaysia 2024 Specialized Conference, which focused on "Operationalizing Water Transformation: New Strategies and Actions." This event provided a platform for valuable discussions and insights into the future of our sector. Additionally, the Asiawater 2024 Expo jointly organised with Informa Markets, proved to be a successful regional water show that fostered collaboration and innovation. Furthermore, the Borneo International Water and Wastewater Exhibition and Conference BIWWEC 2024 held in Kuching, Sarawak, organised by the MWA Sarawak Branch, showcased the latest advancements and networking opportunities in the water and wastewater sectors.

MWA also successfully organised the Sustainability Environmental Asia Conference 2024 in October to help the water industry to take on challenges for some practical application of ESG, Carbon free practices and climate change initiatives in their operations.

I am both honored and humbled to have been elected as a Vice President of the International Water Association (IWA) for 2024/2026. This acknowledgment from the international water community inspires me to share knowledge and experiences for the benefit of our IWA membership.

In 2024, MWA made a powerful impact, firmly establishing itself as the leading water association in the region through proactive international engagement. The year kicked off with MWA hosting a delegation from PT. TIRTA ASASTA DEPOK (PERSERODA) of Indonesia in May, and this event took place in Kuala Lumpur. We took bold steps to showcase our commitment by actively participating in key water events, including WATERTECH China, Singapore International Water Week, Thai Water Expo, the IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition in Toronto, the Indonesia Water Forum, Vietwater 2024, and International Conference & Exhibition of the Philippine Water Works Association (PWWA). These strategic initiatives solidified MWA's position as a leader in collaboration and innovation within the water sector. The warmth and strong relationship among water associations in the ASEAN region provided us with a strong momentum for MWA to roll out preparations for prestigious IWA World Water Congress in Kuching Sarawak in 2028.

Throughout the year, MWA has actively participated in various regional and international events, establishing fruitful collaborations with regional water associations. Together, we engaged in deep discussions to address the common challenges facing the water sector. We have also welcomed 60 new members to MWA, which reflects the strong support from the local industry. This support is evidenced by our good collection of annual subscription fees and participation in MWA events, including the memorable 36^th Annual Dinner and Awards Night.

Looking ahead, we are already planning new programs for 2025, and I sincerely hope to have your continued support as we embark on these initiatives. MWA will also send a strong delegation to the IWA World Water Congress 2025 in Glasgow and take the opportunity to connect with the international stakeholders and promote the IWA World Water Congress 2028.

It is essential that MWA remains a key player in the ongoing digital transformation of the water industry in Malaysia. Driven by the demand for data-driven insights, this transformation will enable MWA and the water industry to manage resources more efficiently, improve performance, and meet regulatory requirements.

As I approach the final year of my term as President in 2025, I anticipate the upcoming elections, which will introduce a new President and new Council members by the next AGM in April 2025.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all Council members, the MWA Secretariat Office staff, our dedicated MWA members, officials from the Ministry, water service operators, and various government departments and agencies for their unwavering support during my tenure as President from 2023 to 2025.

Wishing everyone a blessed holiday season and a prosperous New Year in 2025.