Rachel Kelly, Channel NewsAsia 25 Jun 08;
SINGAPORE : Singapore has signed three Memoranda of Understandings (MOU) with the Middle East to enhance water development. Two MOUs were sealed with Bahrain and one with the United Arab Emirates.
These are expected to pave the way for Singapore companies to take part in water projects in the Middle East.
The potential for the water industry is huge in the Middle East, given its dry climate, and Singapore could well offer its expertise in water treatment.
Singapore's national water agency PUB signed the two MOUs with Bahrain's Ministry of Electricity and Water Authority, and its Works Ministry.
Fahmi Bin Ali Al Jowder, Ministry of Works, and Electricity & Water Authority in Bahrain, said: "In Bahrain now, with the increase demand of our water resources, we are trying to put up a better plan to conserve water usage and have a better management.
"Bahrain... is considered a very dry region. We are highly dependant on desalination for our potable water uses and we are trying now to embark on re-using treated sewage."
The collaboration will see Singapore sharing knowledge with Bahrain in three key areas - operation and maintenance design, construction of sewage and sanitary systems, as well as consultation on planning and development in used water systems.
Singapore has also signed one MOU with the United Arab Emirates to collaborate on environmental protection and sustainable development. A joint committee from the two countries will meet at least once a year to look at specific projects to be undertaken.
While it is still too early to ascertain the monetary value of potential projects, Singapore said it will pave the way for local water firms.
"We are trying to encourage more private sector companies, but we can only do so when we have identified the projects clearly so they'll know what is involved and what is at stake. Whether or not desalination of water will be one of those things is still being discussed," said Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister of Environment & Water Resources.
Singapore, which has no natural resources, has been developing its capabilities in water management over the last 40 years and created a thriving water industry. - CNA /ls
5 MOUs signed to improve water ties
Straits Times 26 Jun 08;
AMID all the talking, delegates also made time to sign deals and agreements on the sidelines of the Singapore International Water Week.
Five memorandums Of understanding (MOUs) were signed to facilitate the export of homegrown water technologies and expertise to water-strapped nations around the world.
The tie-ups highlighted Singapore's leading role as experts in the water industry, said Environment and Water Resources Minister Yaacob Ibrahim at one of the signings.
# Singapore will work with the United Arab Emirates to develop technologies and capabilities in environmental protection and water management.
# National water agency PUB and the Electricity and Water Authority of Bahrain will work together to improve water distribution and conservation in the Middle Eastern nation.
# Under a second MOU with Bahrain's Ministry of Works, the PUB will offer consultation and training in the area of sanitation.
# Sembcorp Industries and the Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute signed a research agreement to develop and apply cutting- edge technologies for water and waste-water treatment.
# The International Desalination Association and Singapore Water Alliance signed an agreement to encourage greater networking, and to facilitate the exchange of research and ideas between member organisations.
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