Adequate supply of water 'even if population hits 6.5m'

DRINK and be merry, because Singapore's water needs are well provided for.

That was the message yesterday from the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, which said the island has more than enough water resources to cope with an expanding population.

'Even if the population hits 6.5 million, we will have adequate supply to cater to the people and the needs of industries,' said Dr Amy Khor, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment and Water Resources.

Set by the Urban Redevelopment Authority, the 6.5 million figure is used as a 'planning parameter' to guide development strategies.

Dr Khor said the healthy state of the Singapore water supply is down to 'careful planning and design', helped in no small part by Newater, the country's fourth so-called 'national tap'.

The other three 'taps' are the local catchment areas, imports from Malaysia and desalinated water.

Described as the 'Singapore success story' by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Newater will supply some 30 per cent of the island's water needs by 2011, double the original target of 15 per cent set for 2010.

The new target was announced last week at the opening of the fourth and largest Newater plant here at Ulu Pandan.

More than 300 companies use Newater, not just for industry but also for air-conditioners and toilets.

But Singapore's success is in stark contrast to water problems faced by countries worldwide. According to the United Nations, 20 per cent of the world's population face water shortages. This number is expected to rise to 30 per cent in 2025.

To raise awareness of this global plight, yesterday was designated World Water Day.

Speaking at the event yesterday, Dr Khor said: 'We are very fortunate...we have an adequate supply of water from our four national taps.'

The event, which took place next to Suntec City's Fountain of Wealth, the largest fountain in Asia, kicked off with the official launch of PUB's inaugural lifestyle magazine, titled Pure.

The glossy publication, which will be published quarterly, will focus on highlighting water issues to the young.

Readers can pick up a free copy at various MRT stations, bus stops, restaurants, cafes and tertiary institutions.

Taking another step to encourage greater water awareness, PUB, the national water agency, also announced the opening of nominations for the inaugural Watermark Award.

A follow-up to last year's Friends Of Water programme, the award recognises individuals and organisations actively involved in water conservation efforts, promoting awareness and keeping waterways clean.

Nominations close on May 15.

Singapore's water conservation efforts are not just local.

Non-profit group Lien Aid has been involved in projects to provide drinkable water and sanitation to rural communities in China, Indonesia and Cambodia. The one-year-old organisation is a spin-off from the local philanthropic group, the Lien Foundation.

taniat@sph.com.sg