New water alliance launched

Julia Ng Channel NewsAsia 24 Feb 12;

SINGAPORE: A new water alliance has been launched to lead research and specialist consultancy services in Southeast Asia.

In partnership with Dutch research institute Deltares, the National University of Singapore (NUS) has launched a new water alliance called NUSDeltares.

It aims to pursue high-impact water research and specialist consultancy services in Singapore and Southeast Asia.

Ambassador of the Netherlands to Singapore, Johannes WG Jansing, witnessed the signing of the Cooperation Agreement between NUS and Deltares.
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The Agreement was signed by Professor Barry Halliwell, NUS deputy president (Research and Technology), and Mr Harry Baayen, managing director of Deltares.

NUSDeltares, which arose out of the Singapore-Delft Water Alliance initiative, builds upon the synergy of expertise from NUS and Deltares.

It will develop capabilities in areas such as urban water management; adaptation to climate change; operational management systems; as well as natural hazards, environmental risks and their mitigation.

The new water alliance will develop a network of collaborators across Southeast Asia and offer on-the-job-training or special short or degree courses and programmes.

National water agency (PUB) said the NUSDeltares will add to the vibrancy of the local water R&D eco-system, and strengthen Singapore's growing status as a global hydrohub.

Mr Chew Men Leong, chief executive of PUB and executive director of the Environment and Water Industry Programme Office, said: "We look forward to the contribution of its world-class experts in further developing Singapore's capabilities in urban water management and cutting-edge water technologies."

Prof Barry Halliwell said: "Sustainable water management is a topic of global importance. NUS already has strong capabilities in water research and management, and the establishment of NUSDeltares will further strengthen our foundation in this area.

"This new partnership deepens our long-standing collaboration with Deltares. We look forward to working closely with Deltares to provide sustainable urban water solutions for Southeast Asia and beyond."

Mr Harry Baayen said: "I am very pleased that our collaboration with NUS will continue via NUSDeltares. NUS is a leading university with international stature as well as a reliable partner for Deltares.

"Together, we provide the essential knowledge for Singapore and the surrounding region to develop innovative solutions for climate adaptation, urban water management, operational systems and natural hazards.

"The strength of this combination can make all the difference, both for public authorities and the business world."

- CNA/ck