Update on Singapore-Malaysia Water Agreement and Efforts to Ensure National Taps Continue to Meet Singapore's Water Requirements
Ministry of Sustainability and the EnvironmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the status of the 1962 Johore River Water Agreement and the Government's strategies to ensure water security amidst increasing housing and industrial demand. MP Neil Parekh Nimil Rajnikant inquired about the volume of water received under the agreement and infrastructure plans for the remaining three National Taps. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu Hai Yien confirmed that Singapore draws 250 million gallons daily from the Johor River and highlighted recent investments like the Jurong Island Desalination Plant. She also noted the planned expansion of the Tuas NEWater Factory and the implementation of mandatory water efficiency requirements for intensive industries starting in 2024. Finally, Minister Grace Fu Hai Yien emphasized demand management through the Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme and the enhanced Water Efficiency Fund to support organizational sustainability.
Transcript
19 Mr Neil Parekh Nimil Rajnikant asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether an update can be given on the status of the Water Agreement signed between Singapore and Malaysia that is set to expire in 2061; (b) how much water per annum does Singapore continue to receive under this agreement; and (c) what further efforts has the Government undertaken to ensure that the remaining three National Taps continue to meet the water requirements of Singapore, as newer housing estates are being developed and more global companies seek investment opportunities in Singapore.
Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: Under the 1962 Johore River Water Agreement (62WA), which will expire in 2061, Singapore can draw up to 250 million gallons of water a day from the Johor River and is obliged to provide Johor with treated water, up to 2% of the water we import. At the recent 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders' Retreat, both countries emphasised their commitments in ensuring the obligations under the 62WA are fulfilled and to continuing the productive collaboration between both sides.
To meet growing water demand and strengthen our water security, the Public Utilities Board (PUB) has and will continue to invest in our water infrastructure. For example, in 2022, Singapore's 5th desalination plant, the Jurong Island Desalination Plant, was officially opened. PUB also announced in late 2024 that it will be expanding the upcoming Tuas NEWater Factory.
Apart from ensuring adequate infrastructural capacity, PUB has also introduced measures to moderate growth in water demand. The Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme helps households make well-informed choices when purchasing water fittings and appliances that save water. In consultation with the industry, PUB introduced water efficiency requirements in 2024 for new projects in specific water-intensive industries with high potential for water recycling. To support organisations which are seeking to improve their water efficiency, PUB enhanced the Water Efficiency Fund in 2023. By making informed choices and using water wisely, everyone can contribute to the sustainability of our water resources.