Programme

Mr. Abdul Hadi joined PAAB in April 2010 as an Assistant General Manager, promoted to Chief Corporate Officer in 2013 and was designated as Chief Treasurer in May 2018 which saw Treasury function been assigned to him. He was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of PAAB effective from 19 March 2019.

He also Honorary Treasurer General at The Malaysian Water Association (MWA) 2023 – 2025 Session.

Mr. Abdul Hadi has over 20 years of treasury experience both in corporate and banking environment. In 1989, he started his career with PETRONAS in money market and foreign exchange desk and later moved to fixed income portfolio management, joined Aseambankers Berhad in 1994 and he became the Chief Dealer and later promoted as the Head of Treasury in 1999. Other positions include Hwang DBS Securities in 2002, KAF Discount Berhad (later known as KAF Investment Bank), in 2003 and Islamic Development Bank, based in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a Financial Market Specialist. He graduated from University of Missouri at Kansas City, USA with Masters in Business Administration (Finance) and Bachelor of Business Administration (Finance) from Loyola University, New Orleans in USA.

Adam Saffian Ghazali is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Aliran Ihsan Resources Berhad (AIRB), a member of MMC Group.

He is a Fellow of the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (FCA, ANZ) and Chartered Accountants of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (CA, M).

Adam holds a Bachelor of Business Degree (with Credit), double major in Accounting & Finance from the University of Technology Sydney, a Postgraduate Master of Applied Taxation from the University of New South Wales.

Adam has over 20 years of experience in the provision of accounting, taxation and internal audit services with the last 14 years concentrated heavily in the corporate finance function.

Prior to joining AIRB, he was the Chief Financial Officer of Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) .

Adam was previously a Non-Executive Director of Indah Water Konsortium (IWK). He is also the Chairman of the Management Committee, Risk Management Committee and Tender Award Committee of AIRB.

Adam is currently the Vice President of The Malaysian Water Association (MWA) after serving two terms as its Honorary Treasurer General.

Julia Muñoz (Spain, 25 yo) has been bringing extensive cultural, business, and linguistic knowledge to the Asian business development field that has helped connect Asia and Spain to reach mutual benefits from the beginning of her career.

She graduated in East Asian Studies, specialized in the Korean area, and mastered international trade and business development which motivated her to live in South Korea and to start her first professional experience as social media and website manager. Over the last two years, she has been in charge of the Asia-Australasia commercial relations in Aganova.

Along with her expertise, she has met the challenges and benefits of international cooperation for the improvement of our resources. Expanding water-leak technologies from Spain over the Asian-Oceania continents she has had the opportunity to study the region and meet the needs. From her experience at Aganova, she has signed successful projects that have helped save vast quantities of water leakage with the Nautilus System.

Speaker Session:
Topic: ROI Analysis for trunk main leak detection

ROI Analysis for trunk main leak detection

Julia Muñoz
Business Development – Regional Sales Rep (Asia-Australasia)
Aganova (Malaga)

Especially in water-stressed areas, optimizing hydric resources is crucial. This optimization can entail many strategies to detect leaks and process water to make it drinkable. Aganova will make a Return on Investment (ROI) analysis of the costs and benefits of diagnosis of water networks to minimize Non-Revenue Water (ANR).

From our experience, optimizing water availability by reducing the percentage of ANR is highly recommended due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Preventing, detecting, and correcting leaks cannot be forgotten in trunk mains management despite there being an alternative way of making drinking water.

The Nautilus System can inspect up to 60 kilometers per day and detect water losses from 0.005 l/s with 1-meter accuracy. Making a complete review of the condition of the transport pipeline comes easily with adequate technology and supports the maintenance planning for the manager.

Water treatment, storage, transport, and desalination are some processes to supply quality drinking water that entail high costs on inversions that seldom are avoidable. The more processes needed, the more expensive is to lose its billing. How economical is it to invest in leak detection? We will examine the costs and return on investment in preventive and corrective water management.

Gary Wong is the Global Industry Principal of Infrastructure and Water at AVEVA, a leader in real-time, industrial, performance intelligence. He leads their global water, smart cities, data centers, and facilities businesses and has 25 years of extensive international experience providing sustainable, strategic and cost-effective digital solutions. Prior to joining AVEVA, he has held positions with OSIsoft, Metro Vancouver and as a consultant directing both public and private sectors on operations, digital transformation, planning, sustainability, and engineering. Mr. Wong is also the Chairman Emeritus of the Smart Water Networks Forum (SWAN) Americas Alliance and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, is registered as a Professional Engineer in Computer Engineering, holds an M.B.A. from the Queen’s School of Business and is also a Chartered Professional Accountant.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Sustainability Through Innovation: Vision to Reality

Sustainability Through Innovation: Vision to Reality

Gary Wong
Global Industry Principal of Infrastructure and Water
AVEVA

Drinking water and wastewater utilities are inextricably connected to environmental responsibility and sustainability. Goals of reducing carbon emissions, operations optimization, and extreme climate patterns are impacting and changing the way utilities need to respond to be sustainable and resilient. Yet, overwhelming amounts of data and information silos make it difficult for utilities to take action turning vision into reality. This practical session highlights innovation from utilities around the world and is complete with case studies such as how San Jose Water saves $143,000 per year in energy costs, how Veolia Water virtually designs and engineers plants globally, and how the City of Salem is using Cloud and AI technologies to predict and prevent harmful algae blooms.

Keshvinder Singh has been contributing his expertise in the water industry for 15 years, having gained experience working in large-scale water utilities and technology providers.

Originally from Malaysia where Keshvinder worked for Air Selangor in the hydraulic modelling department and later in the water loss department, he moved to Saudi Arabia in 2016 to join Marafiq-Saur which is a JV between Saudi’s Marafiq and French’s Saur responsible for the operations of Yanbu Industrial City’s water supply.

In 2017, he moved to Singapore to join AVEVA as Consultant Project Delivery and subsequently joined Schneider Electric as Consultant Smart Water.

Keshvinder has a M.Eng in the field of water engineering and is currently responsible for Schneider Electric’s smart water projects managing business development, pre-sales, delivery and after sales support. Keshvinder works with water utilities with the aim to achieve maximum ROI using smart water solutions. Keshvinder also led the APAC Research Group for SWAN Forum from 2017 – 2020 and is a member of IWA, SWA and MWA.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Sustainable Practices in Water Loss Management - For Improved Visibility and Reduced NRW

Sustainable Practices in Water Loss Management - For Improved Visibility and Reduced NRW

Keshvinder SinghConsultant Smart Water Schneider Electric Singapore

Water loss is the difference between system input volume and authorized consumption, consisting of apparent and real losses.

Figure 1 shows the water loss management lifecycle that is developed from the rich experience gathered by observing the industry practices. The diagram can be divided into two broad groups of OPEX and CAPEX investments that make up the overall lifecycle.

Expanding on the above lifecycle, the above processes can be further detailed in a stepwise approach as shown below to better manage the leaks in the water network in a sustainable manner:

- OPEX Cycle: preliminary Identification of leaks and their confirmation by running thru multiple analyses; prioritization and scheduling of ALC activities; issuing work orders; Supervise ALC activities and Supervise Leak Repair Jobs; Review zone behavior post repair jobs.

- CAPEX Cycle: plan New Pressure Management Zones and choosing the best zones based on investment ROI.

By using a big data platform for near real-time NRW calculations a few of the salient benefits that can be achieved are:

• Single version of the truth.
• A new, integrated solution built on existing data and IT for sharing information across the entire organization.
• Quicker leaks and events detection by using AI improving response times and reducing leakage flows.
• Reduction of costs of outsourced leak detection and repair works.
• A drastically reduced leakage calculation and reporting times.

Chris Krincevski was appointed IAMA Industry Sales Manager – Water & Waste Water South Asian HUB in January 2020. As of January 2021, this role was expanded to cover Middle East & Africa. In June 2019, he was appointed the ABB PAMA Australian Digital Lead. In 2021, Chris was promoted to be the ABB PAMA National Sales Manager for Australia & New Zealand. He is based in Melbourne Australia and supports ABB in their drive into the region’s Water and Wastewater markets.

He is also Product Manager for the Continuous Water Analyser range and WaterMaster series of flowmeters and the ABB Ability Verification Tool for Measurement Devices.

Previously, to this position Chris worked as a Product Manager for ABB’s Pressure Transmitters, Recorders and Controllers, Thermal Mass flow and Ultrasonic level. Chris has also had over 20 years of front-end sales experience. Chris was appointed the National Sales Manager for Australia and New Zealand in September 2021.

Speaker Session:
Topic: How Digitalisation is Increasing Productivity in Water

How Digitalisation is Increasing Productivity in Water

Chris Krincevski
National Sales Manager PAMA & Industry Sales Manager– Water and Waste Water South Asia Middle East Africa Hub
ABB Australia Pty Limited

Although digitalisation is talked about frequently in water, there is a perception that its power is difficult to access. This paper presents examples demonstrating how digital technology is driving productivity. Unlocking the power of data, without overwhelming operators, previously unseen insights enable predictive diagnostics and preventative maintenance. Knowing more is not only leading to doing more but also doing better. Example 1 – Melbourne’s largest water company’s approach to using technology to manage fluoridation of drinking water better, driving greater process efficiency. Example 2 – how digital technology is helping a regional water authority in Victoria, deploy a proactive asset management regime.

Joseph Butterfield is an Innovation Manager at Mueller Water Products. Joseph has been with Mueller for nearly 4 years, a portion of which Joseph worked in Singapore on a research collaboration with the Public Utility Board Singapore. Joseph has over 13 years’ experience in the water industry and has held senior roles in network optimization and asset strategy. Joseph holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Sheffield UK, and his interests lie in the development of novel signal processing techniques to optimize the performance of water infrastructure, in particular non-invasive acoustic pipe condition assessment and leak detection

Speaker Session:
Conference Topic: Utilising Acoustic Sensors to Reduce Non-Revenue Water Through Improved Prioritisation of Leak Repair
Workshop Topic:Identification of Degraded Sections of Pipelines using Non-Invasive Condition Assessment

Utilising acoustic sensors to reduce non-revenue water through improved prioritisation of leak repair.

Joseph Butterfield
Innovation Manager
Mueller Water Products

The use of acoustic sensors (such as accelerometers and hydrophones) to pinpoint the location of leaks are now in regular use by water utilities world worldwide. Once identified, leaks need to be repaired to have an impact on real losses. However, commonly water utilities have a large backlog of leaks raised for repair and there is a difficulty to prioritise which leaks to repair first. Knowledge of the leaks flow rate, prior to repair, can have a significant impact on leakage levels as it allows utilities to prioritise the repair based on the size of the leak, i.e. repairing the bigger leaks first. This presentation aims to detail the findings of an extensive study, carried out to develop a method to determine the leak size (flow rate) non-invasively using permanent acoustic sensors. In order to estimate the leak flow rate, several experiments were carried out on a bespoke test rig in Canada. A number of leaks of different shapes and sizes, laid within different backfill types and pipe materials, were experimentally recorded using acoustic sensors in order to derive acoustic features related to the leaks flow rate. As much of the leak acoustic information is determined at the source of the leak, acoustic sensors were placed near to the leak. An attenuation model was then applied to determine how the acoustic propagation path is modified (or filtered) by the pipe, and therefore the leak flow rate can be derived.

Dr. Afifa has more than 17 years of experience in water and wastewater management, which 15 years with Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK) in sewerage management. Currently, Dr.Afifa is the Head of Asset Management Unit in Planning and Engineering Department at IWK.

Graduated with a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Environment from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in 2003, before earning her Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Engineering in 2005 from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). In 2019, Dr.Afifa has completed her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).

At Asset Management Unit, Dr.Afifa is responsible to rollout and implement the Asset Management initiatives within IWK by developing, formulating, implementing and continuously improving the IWK’s Asset Management System which is in line with ISO 55001. Dr.Afifa is also in charge of the asset related information systems within the company which are the main source of asset related data such as the Asset Management Information System (AMIS), Integrated Geographical Information System (IGIS), Asset Risk Management System (ARMS) and capital works project planning.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Empowering Customer Management Using Geospatial Technology in IWK

Empowering Customer Management Using Geospatial Technology in IWK

Dr. Afifa Safira A Gani
Asset Manager
Indah Water Konsortium

Since 1994, Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK) is entrusted with the task of developing and maintaining a modern and efficient sewerage system for major parts of Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan. Carrying 28 years of experience under its belt, IWK is responsible for operating and maintaining more than 7,000 public sewage treatment plants (STP), more than 1,300 network pumping stations (NPS) and approximately 20,000 km of sewer networks.

At first when IWK initially started off, IWK took over large number of assets which was geographically spread out. Added to that, lack of data on existing assets hampered our business activities coupled with poor quality of inherited facilities makes effective and efficient operation and maintenance extremely difficult. Together with IWK’s top management and employees playing the roles in driving more innovation initiatives across the company, Integrated Geographical Information System (IGIS) was developed to provide a single and integrated GIS for the company, improve quality, timeliness and availability of asset data and better information for operational and decision making. GIS is a modern technology for capturing, storing, retrieving, mapping and analysing spatial and non-spatial geographical data in the digital format. The implementation of GIS has been instrumental in IWK’s operational and maintenance works due to the powerful visualization aspects. Using IGIS, customer related management systems such as Customer Billing & Revenue Information System, Customer Enquiry Management System, Network Management System, Desludging Management System and Vehicle Monitoring System can be integrated to empower IWK’s customer management.

Mudasser Iqbal is the Founder and CEO of TeamSolve, a company dedicated to leveraging AI for digital transformation with a sustainable focus. With a background in AI/ML and product development, Mudasser played a pivotal role in the growth of his previous start-up Visenti and its subsequent acquisition by Xylem Inc. He brings extensive expertise, including a PhD in Computer Science, multiple patents, and recognition as an MIT Young Innovator. Mudasser's leadership and passion drive his commitment to advancing AI technology for the benefit of our society and the environment.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Can ChatGPT help with Water Losses?

Can ChatGPT help with Water Losses?

Mudasser Iqbal
Chief Executive Officer
TeamSolve

"Water Loss Management heavily relies on human expertise for the effective management of assets, as well as the observations of field crews during leakage surveys. This Total Operational Knowledge must be efficiently captured and made accessible to field teams to ensure survey accuracy, reduce human errors, and prevent asset failures. However, current state-of-the-art technology has limitations when it comes to effectively capturing human expertise and findings, which leaves the Total Operational Knowledge incomplete and inaccessible.

This presentation will focus on groundbreaking work undertaken by several water utilities in harnessing AI to assist in Non-Revenue Water (NRW) management. AI is used to capture this Total Operational Knowledge from field teams and domain experts, making it readily available to field staff, particularly in remote areas, providing them with quick access to critical guidance for asset maintenance and leakage surveys while also granting access to historical data, troubleshooting knowledge, and expert advice – all through a user-friendly chat interface. By ensuring the quality and standard of fieldwork, these utilities are empowering local staff and achieving greater cost efficiency in leak surveys. For field crews, this translates to increased productivity and job satisfaction, as they can complete more tasks with the right information at their fingertips. This innovation can save field teams 30% to 40% of the time they typically spend searching for information and reduce overall NRW management costs by enhancing predictability and operational oversight."

Garry became a founding partner of ATi UK in 1996, successfully directing the company to become a leading provider of engineered, analytical sensor monitoring solutions for water and gas applications.

As a leader in his field, Garry is an enthusiastic advocate of innovative, smart water solutions and supply chain collaboration, expanding the capabilities of intelligent measurement, reliable communication and actionable data to create a more sustainable future to meet the challenges of tomorrow. In his role of Director of Smart Water Solutions, Garry works closely with international utility customers and partners to deliver robust, integrated, digital solutions from Badger Meter to help users turn data into actionable insights, empowering customers to leverage data in new ways.

Speaker Session:
Conference Topic: Smart Water Nexus Revolution
Workshop Topic: Smart Water Nexus Revolution

Smart Water Nexus Revolution

Garry Tabor
Director
Badger Meter, United Kingdom

Many parts of the developed world have water infrastructure over 100 years old……. these neglected assets often lead to inefficiencies and poor levels of water quality and customer satisfaction. The historical methods for Repair or replacing vast amounts of existing assets carries a price far beyond cost effective measures and will take years. Smart Digital Water solutions offer our industry cost effective solutions today at significantly less cost. Unifying all water data from source to tap will allow water companies to optimise existing.

Garry Tabor will present how unification of multiple data sets can allow utilities to visualise their entire water system and gain actionable insights and analytical based AI models to offer predicated outcomes which allow for a proactive utility.

Mr. Chuchat Saitin was born on December 1st, 1961. He holds a Bachelor's degree in civil engineering and a Master's degree in Business Administration. Throughout his 37 years of experience, he has involved in various construction management roles, including dam construction, road construction, building construction and management of precast concrete factories.

In 2001, Mr. Chuchat shifted his field to water resources, water supply and wastewater management, with a particular interest in wastewater recycling for industries in Thailand and Vietnam. He has received training certificates from prestigious institutions like Kochi University of Technology in Japan, the association for Overseas Technical Scholarship (AOTs) in Japan and from the Water and Environment Institute for sustainability (WEIS) in Thailand.

Currently, Mr. Chuchat holds significant positions in different organizations. He serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Amata Water Company Ltd., where he is responsible for managing the water security of more than 1300 factories at the Amata industrial estate in the eastern region of Thailand.

Additionally, he is the Vice Chairman at Water and Environment Institute for Sustainability (WEIS), part of The Federation of Thai Industries, He has also held the position of Vice President at Amata Vietnam Joint Stock Company in Vietnam and previously served as an Advisor to a subcommittee of the House of Representatives of Thailand, focusing on water security management in Eastern Thailand.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Water Crisis in Thailand's Eastern Region: A Case Study of Amata Industrial Estate

Water Crisis in Thailand's Eastern Region: A Case Study of Amata Industrial Estate

Chuchat Saitin
Chief Operating Officer
AMATA Water Co. LTD. Thailand

This presentation provides an insightful overview of the water crisis in Thailand, with a particular focus on the devastating drought crises in the eastern region. The presentation aims to deliver two key messages: first, it emphasizes the significance of understanding the cyclic nature of drought and its far-reaching consequences on the country's economic growth, particularly its adverse effects on the industrial sectors. Secondly, it presents a compelling case study of the Amata Industrial Estate, situated in the eastern region of Thailand, which has successfully implemented water security management strategies for industries. Over the past two decades, Amata Industrial Estate has employed innovative technologies, processes, and management practices for water resources development and wastewater recycling, becoming a remarkable model for sustainable water usage and industry resilience. Through this presentation, we hope to shed light on the urgent need for comprehensive water management practices in Thailand and showcase the inspiring success story of Amata Industrial Estate as a guiding beacon for other regions and industries grappling with water scarcity and security challenges.

Mr. Mohamed Yazid graduated in Civil Engineering from University Of Strathclyde, Scotland, United Kingdom in 1997 and spent on practising civil engineering field such as Site / Consultant Engineer for Mentari Business Park, Sunway, PJ Selangor and appointed as the first Engineer in Pulau Pinang State Health Department in 1999. In 2000, he been transferred to Ministry of Housing and Local Government and assigned as Desk Officer for Solid Management (housing and institutional). 2005, he was assigned as Senior Assistant Director in Section Hospital Engineering, Engineering Services Division, Ministry of Health.

His major in Government is develop concession agreement for Hospital Support Services with UKAS, MOF. Facilities Management is his forte and focussing on infectious control namely cleansing, linen and laundry and HealthCare waste Management.

During Covid19, he was the Engineer totally involved with Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC) managed quarantine station/centre based on engineering needs. His knowledge about disaster management proven during 2014 Flood, HAS Fire, Pandemic especially on risk management and post- disaster. 2021, he was appointed as Chief Engineer for Sarawak State Health Department to lead the strategic approach for Sarawak to embracing the pandemic and project post pandemic.

2023, he was appointed as current post to enhance local authorities’ potential in managing urban drainage system (especially those been affected by flash flood) and all the projects to cater socio-economy needs.
He is the chairman for MS 2775, Malaysia Standard Department. A people person which loves collaboration concept and always be the push the envelope to bridging the gap among all the relevant agencies.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Urban Drainage Now; For the Future Generation

Urban Drainage Now; For the Future Generation

Mohamed Yazid Kuman
Director, Department Public Health Engineering,
Local Government Department
Ministry of Local Government Development Malaysia

Most of the urbanite living in city in Malaysia been traumatized with flash flood, water scarcity and water pollution. Generally, most of the stormwater runoff especially in urban areas is catered by conventional drainage systems that carry runoff to the downstream by rapid disposal concept. By adapting the concept used vastly in USA, Europe and Japan, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are currently the recommended techniques towards solving three major problems in managing the urban drainage systems.

This paper to discuss managing urban drainage in Malaysia by taking example adapted by local authorities in the country.

The approaching strategies are as below:-
a) Sustainable Design (short, medium and long term),
b) Comprehensive Maintenance (Routine, Predictive)
c) Roles and Responsibilities (obligation agency)
d) Firm Enforcement by authorised agency
e) Efficient Asset Management
f) Community Involvement
g) Integrated Data Management
h) Technology Diversity and embracing the future adaptation
i) Human Resource empowerment
j) Report and Record Management
k) Strategic Incident/Disaster Management
l) Water Pollution Approach

As Local Government aim to strengthen all the facilities which related to people without taking race as a based, this paper is to ensure the next generation will not be burden with the major disaster as all the approaching strategies as listed above can be improvised to the resilience later.

Norazalin Nasaha is graduated in civil engineering, year 2005.  She has been involved in infrastructure project such as water structure work, pipe work, highway and building works.

As part of project team, she and teams had successfully delivered the main component of Langat 2 project which were the completion of 1130 MLD water treatment plant construction, 3.0m diameter of raw pipeline work, 1.9m diameter of treated pipeline works, 2.1 km (Phase 1) tunnelling works, 210 ML of new balancing reservoir and 56 unit of staff quarters including its facilities for water operator. Previously she had gained experience in 1600 ha of site preparation works, highway and campus upgrading work for industrial training institute.

As of now, she is working with team towards the whole completion of Ampang-Hulu Langat raw water twin tunnel.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Hulu Langat – Ampang Treated Water Twin Tunnel

Hulu Langat – Ampang Treated Water Twin Tunnel

Norazalin Nasaha
Project Scheduler
SMHB Engineering

The Hulu Langat – Ampang Treated Water Twin Tunnel is one of the components in supplying treated water from Langat 2 Water Supply Project. The Langat 2 Water Supply Project is a major water supply project for the State of Selangor and the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and has been and will be develop into two (2) phases, Phase 1 and Phase 2. The raw water is pumped from Semantan Intake and gravitated in 5.2 meter tunnel at 44.5 km long through Pahang- Selangor Raw Water Transfer Project (PSRWT). The raw water is treated in Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant (L2WTP). The treated water is pumped into two (2) new balancing reservoirs, Bukit Enggang Balancing Reservoir (BEBR) for bulk supply to Western Corridor and Hulu Langat Balancing Reservoir (HLBR), for bulk distribution to Northern Corridor.

The new HLBR will gravitate the treated water into the twin tunnel. The Hulu Langat – Ampang Treated Water Twin Tunnel is constructed with twin parallel tunnel, Stage 1 and Stage 2 tunnels. The Inlet portal of the tunnel is located near Adit 4 of the completed PSRWT and traverse two (2) km the Hulu Langat and Bukit Sungai Putih Forest Reserve. The outlet portal is located near the proposed Ampang Reservoir, which is still under construction. These 3.2m diameter twin tunnel will also function as a water storage and conveyance tunnel in supplying treated water to the Northern Corridor. It was planned that with the completion of Stage 1 tunnel it will benefits Ampang population area by first quarter of 2024.

Prof. Bani is a highly sought-after consultant by both the Public and Private sectors and is known for his expertise in Strategic Communications, Crisis Management, Marketing, Branding, Social Media and Corporate Transformation as well as Training in all related fields. He is the founder and Managing Director of bzBee Consult, an award-winning integrated strategic communications company.

He graduated with an LLB (Honours) from the University of Sheffield, UK and has wide-ranging professional experience that also includes diplomatic service, commercial advisory, cross-border negotiations, entertainment and broadcast advisory services, as well as events and artiste management. He is the current President of the Public Relations and Communications Association of Malaysia and an advisor to many committees in both the Public and Private sectors. He is also an Adjunct Professor at Taylor’s University and UNIRAZAK Kuala Lumpur.

An accomplished and respected PR professional, Prof. Bani is recognised as a role model for PR practitioners in Malaysia and the region. He was recently named Asia-Pacific Best PR Leader of 2022 by World Communication Forum Association (WCFA) at its annual Best PR Leader Regional Awards 2022 in Davos, Switzerland for his outstanding leadership and achievements in the field of public relations.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Crisis Communications: Effective Stakeholder Management

Crisis Communications: Effective Stakeholder Management

Prof. Hj. Mohd Said Bani C.M. Din
Founder & Managing Director,
BzBee Consult Sdn Bhd

President,
PRCA Malaysia

The presentation provides a concise and insightful overview of the pivotal role stakeholder management and media relations play in navigating crises. In today's fast-paced business environment, crises can arise unexpectedly, making it essential to communicate adeptly with stakeholders and the media in order to maintain trust and reputation.

The key components of stakeholder engagement will be highlighted as we delve into the art of identifying key stakeholders, understanding their concerns, and tailoring communication strategies to address their needs during times of crisis. Additionally, it underscores the significance of establishing open channels of dialogue, which will ensure accurate information dissemination and foster collaboration.

Media relations during a crisis are also explored, with an emphasis on the need for proactive engagement. The presentation highlights strategies for conveying transparent and consistent messages to the media, which will help to manage the narrative and minimise the potential for misinformation.

Mr. Daneil Punang joins the water industry as the CEO of LAKU Management Sdn Bhd, a GLC wholly owned by Sarawak Government in January 2021.

Prior to his appointment as the CEO of LAKU Management Sdn Bhd, he has spent about 30 years in oil & gas industries mainly at multinational companies such as Malaysia LNG Sdn Bhd, Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd, Sarawak Shell Bhd, overseeing the maintenance related activities, both at the on shore and offshore facilities.

With his many years of working experience in oil & gas industry, holding critical positions in Asset Reliability and Integrity Management (ARIM), he is a great addition to the company, as Asset reliability and integrity is one of the biggest challenge, if not the number one, that water industry are facing now.

Most of water asset or facilities are ageing and at the same time Consumers are demanding better and more reliable water supply with zero interruption, where possible.

He was conferred Bachelor degree with Honours in Civil Enginering in 1989 from University of Technology Malaysia. He is also BEM certified Professional Engineer (PE) and Certified Construction Project Manager by CIDB.

Adding colors to his carrier, he represented Sarawak state football team during the Sarawak famous Ngap Sayot days, in the Malaysian national soccer league.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Effective Stakeholders Engagement: Experience Sharing by Laku Management Sdn. Bhd.

Effective Stakeholders Engagement: Experience Sharing by Laku Management Sdn. Bhd.

Ir. Ts. Daneil Punang
Chief Executive Officer
LAKU Management Sdn Bhd

LAKU Management Sdn Bhd (LAKU) is a Government Link Company (GLC) wholly owned by Sarawak Government.

On 1st January 1996, LAKU obtained its License to Operate four (4) water treatment plants in the Northern region of Sarawak namely Miri, Bintulu, Samalaju and Limbang, with a total plant design capacity of 688 MLD.

Currently LAKU has a staff strength of 470 people serving a population of 605,696 people. The largest consumers are the petrochemical plants in Bintulu and Samalaju such as Methanol plant at 19 MLD, ABF at 14 MLD, MLNG and SMDS at 8MLD respectively. Other equally important consumers are the domestic
and commercial category with total water demand of approximately 235 MLD.

Through its 25 years of operations, like many other water operators, LAKU has gone through a few water crisis, such as the El-Nino dry season experienced in Bintulu in the year 2009, the recent water mains dislocation at Miri and the recurring murky (colored) treated water in Bintulu and Miri, attributed to the high content of iron and organic matters in its raw water, respectively. These water issues had taught
LAKU very useful lessons with regards to the importance of managing and making an Effective Stakeholders Engagement.

Tg. Kidurong industrial area in Bintulu which contribute not less than 30% GDP for Sarawak is likened to a two-edged sword as far as LAKU operations is concern. The industrial area provides LAKU with the much-needed profit but at the same time demand for almost zero-tolerance to water supply interruption as without sufficient water may force these petrochemical plants to shut down and loose production.

LAKU has undertaken various stakeholder engagement in its effort to minimise adverse impact to its customers. The most common approach is disseminating planned and unplanned water interruption notices through its website, local newspapers and engaging directly with major customers.

Customers hotlines and service centres at all its four operating area are manned 24 hours to receive complaints and feedbacks on water related issues such as low water pressure, murky water, etc.

LAKU has always believed in two-way communication especially with its major customers, firstly, to understand the customer’s need for water including future plans, secondly, sharing with the customers LAKU’s operational capability and constraints and last but not least, recovery measures that either parties could undertake to minimise production impact should there be water supply interruptions.

Besides the customers which is by and large the largest and primary stakeholders, LAKU has its key stakeholders in its Ministry of Utility and Telecommunications, the area representatives or Yang Berhormat for Miri, Bintulu, Samalaju and Limbang area, and the Board of Directors. Regular engagement through meetings and water issue updates had taken place.

Sarawak Government through its Post Covid Development Plan (PCDS) 2030, as well had made it very clear that the treated water supply shall have 100% coverage and non-revenue water as low as 25% throughout the state by year 2030.

In conclusion, effective stakeholder engagement is the core of the water industry's success by understanding the stakeholders area of concern and addressing it, keeping the stakeholders informed of water issues and to adopt attitude of caring which are inline with our company’s Vision, Mission and Strategy.

Mr. Zareh is a co-founder of Excel Pipes Sdn Bhd and has been managing the company since its inception. He has more than thirty years of experience in the US tech industry prior to founding Excel Pipes. Previously he was a managing director of Medibic Alliance and a Strategic partner at Asia Private Equity Capital where he led the US operations and managed an investment fund for Daiichi Sankyo Pharmaceuticals. He has previously held senior management and strategic planning positions at Applied Biosystems and Gene Logics, two leading technology platform companies in the life sciences and pharmaceutical industries. At Applied Biosystems, he managed genotyping platform product line with an annual revenue of more than $120m and successfully launched applications of the platform in agriculture and forensics leading to new markets with annual revenues in excess of $250m.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Mild Steel vs GRP pipelines, an evaluation of performance over 30 years and considerations for large water transfer projects

Mild Steel vs GRP pipelines, an evaluation of performance over 30 years and considerations for large water transfer projects

Ali Reza Zareh
Director
Excel Pipes Sdn Bhd

In this presentation we will discuss and compare performance of two pipelines installed in Khusestan, Iran. The pipelines were installed in an area with soft clay soil and high-water table and regular flooding being close to major rivers and the Persian Gulf.

Three pipelines will be compared for their specifications and short and long-term performances. A MS pipeline of 326km length was installed in 1986-7 along with a 115km GRP pipeline in the same area. The MS pipeline has ~214km of DN500-900 and 112km DN>1000mm. The GRP pipeline has ~42km DN500-900 and ~73km DN>1000mm. The two projects have been in operation for more than 35 years.

A 54 km DN1600-1800 GRP pipeline was installed in 2009 in the same zone. We will also evaluate the performance of this pipeline.
We will analyze their performance over the years and the lessons learned by the operator for better asset management.

Dr. Ir. Ts Mohmad Asari Daud is a Professional Engineer, Professional Technologist, Corporate Leadership Competent, NRW Management Competent, SPAN Qualified Person and a water sector enthusiast.

In 1984, he started as a water engineer in the Government as planner, then as designer and later as operator of water facilities encompassing dams, water treatment plants, distribution systems and customer services associated activities.

In 2002, he left the Government and joined a construction company before managing his own business in 2004.

In 2012, he was appointed by the Government of Selangor to sit in the Water Monitoring Committee of Selangor until 2018. He had served as SPAN Commissioner 2020 - 2023. He also provides consultancy services on water related projects.

His passion towards water made him involved and participated actively in NGO activities. He is currently the President of the MWA, Founding member of Friends of Rivers Malaysia, and Exco member of Malaysian Water Partnership.

He is currently the CEO Syarikat Air Perlis and Chair of HRDCorp Sectoral Training Committee (Utilities & Services).

Speaker Session:
Topic: Handling water challenges - engaging stakeholders, public and customers

Handling water challenges - engaging stakeholders, public and customers

Dr. Ir. Ts Mohmad Asari Daud
President
Malaysian Water Association

Water is life, yet most people take this for granted. Water is finite, yet many think it will be available forever as it is today. Water is in a cycle, cost of abstracting it at different part of the cycle differs. In the past water is taken from pristine hill source or dug from wells within the area people live. People needs to carry them to their houses in containers, but the distance may not be too far away. Now wells are getting dry, dams are not filled up as expected and water needs to be transferred from far to meet demands.

In this time of difficulties, engagement with consumers and people at large is more required than ever before. In times of multiple challenges to get water as needed, people started to realise that there is a certain value for water. Getting potable water for drinking has a cost for it. In determining cost, it can be very subjective, depending on the level of concern on its sustainability, what is considered worth to consider in ensuring its availability. Operation cost is the top of the list – customers need to pay for what is needed to get water to their premises. Full cost recovery (FCR) is the ultimate where water industry would self-financed and sustainable. The costs differ a lot as elements of efficiency, effectiveness, sustainability and environmental may not be built in the cost equally. This paper will describe the importance of each of the cost that shall be reflected in price of water to ensure that water can be continuously supplied at high quality complying to acceptable standards.

People need to be engaged to give an idea on what costs are expected to ensure that water supply and its related industry will be sustainable, assessing from current level of services provided by the water company, looking at viability of several financial options and initiatives.

The Hon Karlene Maywald is the South Australian Water Ambassador. She has extensive experience in water policy development and reform across the Australian irrigation, environmental and urban water sectors.
She was elected to the South Australian Parliament between 1997 and 2010 representing South Australia’s largest irrigated horticultural region.
Karlene served as Minister for Water Security in the South Australian Government during the millennium Drought (the worst drought in recorded history).

Karlene is most noted for her significant contribution to progressing national reforms to the transboundary management of the Murray Darling Basin in Australia and setting the direction for long term water security in South Australia.
At the National level, Karlene was a Member of the Murray Darling Basin Ministerial Council from 2004 to 2010 and she chaired the Australian National Water Commission between 2012-2015.

Karlene is currently Managing Director of Maywald Consultants and holds a portfolio of Board positions including Chair of WaterAid Australia, Chair of the Peter Cullen Environment and Water Trust and she is a Director of WaterAid International and the Australian Water Association.

Karlene lives with her family on their irrigated vineyard and equestrian property near Adelaide in South Australia.

Sustainability: Transforming Vision Into Action

Hon Karlene Maywald
South Australian Water Ambassador

The South Australian Water Ambassador, the Hon Karlene Maywald, will draw on her experience with water reform in Australia to discuss how to enable action on water through a collaborative process between politicians, public servants, industry and academia. Australia's water journey spans many decades and continues to this day and a joint approach across stakeholders has been essential to success. This presentation will focus on matters such as evidence-based decision making, community participation and engagement, connecting with the local political agenda and the role of industry in adjusting to the future ahead.

Hugh Chapman serves as the Managing Director of Aqua Analytics, a company at the forefront of smart technology and leakage reduction in the water sector in Asia Pacific. With over a decade of leadership experience in global water technology firms, Hugh's career trajectory is diverse and focused. He initially honed his skills in technical and project roles within his family's water business before transitioning to Pure Technologies, where he played a pivotal role in critical water pipeline management, including trunk main leakage reduction, using proprietary technologies. In 2020, he founded Aqua Analytics, rapidly expanding to a team of over 15 professionals. The company partners with state and local governments in Australia and New Zealand on long-term water loss reduction projects, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the field.

Speaker Session:
Conference Topic: Talent, Training, and Tech: Transforming Leak Detection to Combat NRW
Workshop Topic: Advanced Techniques in Leakage Detection

The Hon Karlene Maywald is the South Australian Water Ambassador. She has extensive experience in water policy development and reform across the Australian irrigation, environmental and urban water sectors.
She was elected to the South Australian Parliament between 1997 and 2010 representing South Australia’s largest irrigated horticultural region.
Karlene served as Minister for Water Security in the South Australian Government during the millennium Drought (the worst drought in recorded history).

Karlene is most noted for her significant contribution to progressing national reforms to the transboundary management of the Murray Darling Basin in Australia and setting the direction for long term water security in South Australia.
At the National level, Karlene was a Member of the Murray Darling Basin Ministerial Council from 2004 to 2010 and she chaired the Australian National Water Commission between 2012-2015.

Karlene is currently Managing Director of Maywald Consultants and holds a portfolio of Board positions including Chair of WaterAid Australia, Chair of the Peter Cullen Environment and Water Trust and she is a Director of WaterAid International and the Australian Water Association.

Karlene lives with her family on their irrigated vineyard and equestrian property near Adelaide in South Australia.

Flowing River Without Borders

Hon. Karlene Maywald
South Australia Water Ambassador

The management of the Murray-Darling Basin in Australia has been contentious since the early 1900s and continues to be a matter of debate for governments, community and business along the breadth of the basin. The fact that the river crosses different state government boundaries only adds to the complication of securing a future productive and healthy working river system. The South Australian Water Ambassador, the Hon Karlene Maywald, will talk about the key factors that underpin the current Murray-Darling Basin Plan and the key issues related to the management of a water resource that spans different jurisdictions.

Associate Professor Dr Rasyikah Md Khalid is an academic member of the Faculty of Law, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and an associate member of the Fuel Cell Institute UKM. She obtained her PhD from UKM, Masters of Law (LL.M) from Universiti Malaya and Bachelor of Law (LL.B Hons) from the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom. In 2012 she completed the postgraduate courses in Building Resilience to Climate Change (BRCC) from the United Nations University (UNU) Tokyo. She was a visiting researcher at the UNESCO Centre for Water Law, Policy and Science at the University of Dundee Scotland. She has been consulted by federal and state agencies, the World Bank Group, and mass media on matters pertaining to environmental issues. She has been a Board member of the International Sustainable Development Research Society (ISDRS) since 2021, and published books and journals on water law, energy law, heritage law, environmental federalism, climate change governance and sustainable development. She has also organized environmental awareness programs for school children, community leaders and government officers in the country.

Muhammad Nazir Bin Musa, a 39-year-old professional, holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Technology Malaysia (2008). Currently serving as the Head of Business Planning & Development at Ranhill Water Services Sdn Bhd since 2023, he is pivotal in expanding the company's reach by acquiring water-related contracts, with a primary focus on Non-Revenue Water (NRW) projects.

From 2018 to 2023, as the Assistant Manager of Business Development, Nazir contributed significantly to the company's success by securing projects exceeding RM 600 million. His strategic approach included active participation in tenders, proposal preparation, networking with clients and stakeholders, and engagement in industry events.

In his role as Johor Bahru District NRW Manager from 2011 to 2018, Muhammad Nazir orchestrated NRW reduction activities, achieving a remarkable reduction from 27% to 21%. Additionally, he conducted awareness and technical training programs for technicians and engineers, emphasizing both theory and practical skills.

During his earlier years (2009-2011), Nazir served as an Engineer, overseeing NRW-rekated asset installation, pressure management, and maintenance activities in the Johor Southern region.

Muhammad Nazir Bin Musa's diverse experience showcases his dedication to the water services sector, where he combines leadership, strategic vision, and technical expertise to drive the success and sustainability of water-related projects.

Speaker Session:
Topic: RWS’ Experience - Pipe Replacement in Johor

RWS’ Experience - Pipe Replacement in Johor

Muhammad Nazir Musa
Head of Business Planning and Development
Ranhill Water Services Sdn. Bhd.

The effectiveness of either finding and repairing leaks or replacing pipes in a water supply system depends on the specific circumstances, the extent of the problem, and the available resources. Both approaches have their advantages and should be considered.

In practice, water supply operators often perform a combination of these approaches. Leak detection and repair can help address immediate issues and reduce water loss, while pipe replacement may be necessary for long-term infrastructure improvement. The choice between the two approaches should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the specific situation, considering factors such as the age and condition of the pipes, budget constraints, and the impact on the community.

In Johor, Ranhill Water Services (RWS) has served as the NRW reduction contractor for Ranhill SAJ (RanhillSAJ) since 2005. Over the course of 18 years, RWS successfully identified and repaired over 700,000 unreported leaks. Additionally, RWS played a role in assisting RanhillSAJ in developing pipe replacement proposals for PAAB. In 2020, RWS initiated physical pipe replacement activities after securing a tender for pipe replacement from PAAB.

This paper will highlight RWS’s experience related to pipe replacement in Johor.

Asha Budhlall, is a Leakage Product Manager at Mueller Water Products based in Toronto, Canada. She has over a decade of experience working with water pipe assessment and specializes in leak monitoring technologies. Prior to joining the Product team, she succeeded in a field, project management and team management capacity while handling critical water pipe leak detection and condition assessment projects for both distribution and transmission mains.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Digital Transformation and Human-Centric AI: Revolutionizing Water Leak Detection with The Public Utilities Board of Singapore

Digital Transformation and Human-Centric AI: Revolutionizing Water Leak Detection with The Public Utilities Board of Singapore

Asha Budhlall
Leakage Product Manager
Mueller Water Products

This paper uses Singapore’s Public Utilities Board (PUB) as a case study to explore the critical role of digital transformation in the water utility sector. The focus is on the Transmission Leak Monitoring System (TLMS), deployed across 200 km of transmission mains. Utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, the TLMS enhances operational efficiency by streamlining data collection, analysis, and reporting. Two key performance metrics, “Leak Classification Performance” and “Leak Sensitivity,” are proposed for standardized evaluation of leak monitoring systems. These metrics help utilities to make data-driven decisions and minimize operational costs.

Key advancements include a “Speed to Notification” feature that reduces alert times from 2-3 days to 1-2 days and a “Leak Sizing Algorithm” for real-time leak estimation. Performance is assessed using unique metrics like “Leak Classification Performance” and “Leak Sensitivity.” PUB’s TLMS scored 70% in Leak Classification and 94% in Leak Sensitivity, validating the system’s efficiency in minimizing false positives and accurately detecting leaks. The “Speed to Notification” performance indicator is especially crucial, employing a more robust data collection strategy and precise reporting of leak events, ultimately reducing the time and costs involved in addressing leaks. Furthermore, the system has evolved to include single-channel detection to capture leaks that would not typically be detected.

The paper details the technological aspects, such as hardware and algorithms, required for monitoring systems. It includes acoustic hydrophone sensors for data collection, cloud-based storage, and advanced data analytics. The technology is continually evolving, with plans to incorporate more AI algorithms for superior pattern recognition and acoustic analysis. Moreover, the study emphasizes that feedback from both PUB and field operators has led to iterative refinements in the system. Operational efficiency has been enhanced through a combination of augmenting human effort with advanced data analytics, AI, and data analysis.

In summary, the paper serves as a comprehensive guide for water utilities interested in adopting emerging technologies. It advocates for an integrated approach to data analytics and performance metrics, providing a roadmap for scaling and adapting new technologies for sustainable and efficient water management.

Qualifications:
BE (Civil-UTM), Dip in Hydraulics (IHE, Delft), MSc (Land & Water Resources Management) and a PhD (Peat Water Management) both from Cranfield Institute of Technology, UK.

Affiliations: member of IEM and BEM, Member Board of LUAS & GEC

Experiences:

• Chair of the ASM Water Committee, 2015 - 2021.
• Chair of PMC, ASM/EPU Study on WST2040 (Water Sector Transformation by 2040 (May2020 - Dec 2021)
• Work in UNESCAP, Bangkok (2015-2008)
• More than 30 years in the Malaysian Civil service(1977-2008). Last 3 positions:
  Director General of NAHRIM (2008-2005), Director of Corp Development DID (2005-2002) and Director of River Engineering DID (2002-1999).

Mazlin Mokhtar, BSc., PhD, is the Deputy Head of Research at the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network - Asia Headquarters (UN SDSN-Asia) hosted by Jeffrey Cheah Foundation at Sunway University, Malaysia. With 37 years at UKM, he held key positions such as Director of LESTARI, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Affairs, and Founding Director of Centre for Public and International Relations (PUSPA). He has served on various committees and boards, including the Environment Committee of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia and the Environmental Quality Act's Appeal Board.

Mazlin's notable roles include Chair of Malaysia's Environmental Quality Council; Chairman of Special Committee appointed by Malaysian Government in reviewing the Lynas Rare Earth operations, and as Task Force Chairman in the advocacy, awareness, and capacity building for Malaysia's Water Sector Transformation 2040 Study with ASM. He also had served as an International Atomic Energy Agency Research Fellow.

Mazlin is the recipient of the Langkawi Environment Award in 2018, and award of the best 2010 social science project under MOHE's FRGS Grant Scheme for his research on national chemicals management. Mazlin's contributions also extend to organizations like WWF Malaysia, UNDP GEF Small Grants Program, and the National River Care Fund via GEC and partners. He has led many multidisciplinary research projects focused on sustainable development, including the environmental management aspects of UNESCO's Global Geopark in Langkawi. Additionally, he played a key role in international training courses and disaster risk reduction efforts with United Nations University's Climate and Ecosystems Change Adaptation Research (UN CECAR) and Training Program.

Mazlin Mokhtar's extensive career reflects his commitment to environmental and sustainable development initiatives.

Prof. Mahendhiran Sanggaran Nair is an expert in data science, econometrics and STIE (Science, Technology, Innovation and Economic) Policy modelling. He is the architect for the development of the 10-10MySTIE Framework and the 8i-innovation ecosystem model, which provide a systematic and an evidence-based approach to characterise the national and industrial innovation ecosystems for a
knowledge intensive economy. Professor Nair has been a subject matter expert for government agencies, industry, community organisations and international agencies on sustainable STIE development. He is a Fellow of Academy Sciences Malaysia and Fellow of CPA (Australia).

Mr Mohammad Siphon holds a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from University of Manchester Institute of Science & Technology (UMIST) UK (1995) and Master of Environmental Science (Land Use and Water Resource) from University Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) (2008). In a career timeline spanning 28 years, he started in 1995 as a Waste, Water, Wastewater Treatment Engineer at Zycon / Hadco Corporation California, USA for their Sarawak operations in 1996. In 1999, he joined Trienekens GmbH, Germany for their Sarawak operations in Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, which is the concession holder for Sarawak's Integrated Solid Waste Management System (ISWMS), assuming various roles in engineering, operations, R&D, environment and having experience in municipal and hazardous waste management, operation, treatment, landfills and incinerators. In 2010, he was appointed as a Director in Chemsain Konsultant Sdn Bhd, a Malaysian company with diversified business interests ranging from laboratory, environment, engineering, occupational safety and health, water infrastructure, training, drone UAV and safety, overlooking business interests in various water and wastewater infrastructure, waste treatment and disposal facilities, socio-economic studies, TVET development and renewable energy for both public and private institutions in Malaysia.

Datuk Ir. Mohd Adnan is a Professional Engineer with Practising Certificate registered with the Board of Engineers Malaysia. He has more than 40 years working experience as a Civil Engineer specialising in water resources planning, development and management.

He is a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM), Board Member of the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), Member and Past President of the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (ACEM) and a Corporate Member of the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM).

In water resources, he has been involved in several projects in Malaysia and overseas covering water resources, flood management, irrigation and river basin development.

He is also active as a resource person with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and contributed to several policy papers such as Water Sustainability for the World Water Forum 7 and river basin sustainability studies.

As a Fellow of the ASM, he is a member of the ASM Water Committee and was the Team Leader/Co Leader of studies on water demand management and water for agriculture.

For the Water Sector Transformation Plan 2040 (WST2040), the was the Task Force Leader for the component on Integrated Water Sector Data Centre (IWSDC). This component addresses the need for open source data and information necessary to ensure the smooth implementation of WST2040.

Tom is an experienced technology professional who has worked in the IT and Telecommunications industry for over 10 years. He has spent the last five years focusing on satellite communications at Myriota, who are an Australian based IoT satellite connectivity provider. He has extensive knowledge on how satellite connectivity and the internet of things (IoT) can be used to solve the challenges faced by water and wastewater authorities. Monitoring and management of the global water supply can be improved by many different innovative technologies, and Tom is able to offer a consultative and educated opinion which is based on his experience across implementing multiple software and hardware solutions in the water industry.

Speaker Session:
Topic: Satellite IoT Connectivity: Solving the challenges in Water Monitoring and Management using Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communications Networks

Satellite IoT Connectivity: Solving the challenges in Water Monitoring and Management using Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communications Networks

Tom Boot
Regional Sales Director, APAC
Myriota

Water scarcity is a growing issue. It will directly affect nearly 20% of the human population by 2025.

Climate change, growing population, poor distribution systems and mismanagement of water resources are just a few of the human factors that are increasingly denying people their right to safe water and sanitation.
Myriota was founded to assist with these global challenges via revolutionary IoT Satellite Connectivity. The company offers disruptively low-cost and long-battery-life global connectivity. This innovative technology enables water monitoring and management systems to assist with Resource monitoring, Compliance monitoring and Pollution containment. Examples of Myriota's technology in action include the Grundfos Solar Connect product, that alerts users to water levels and availability and quality from anywhere on earth.

Tom Boot is the Regional Sales Director for Asia Pacific at Myriota. His presentation will discuss how Myriota's technology works, and how IoT Satellite Connectivity can be used to solve the challenges highlighted above.

Mr Ryuichi Fukuhara is a Technical Advisor for UNESCO Jakarta, overseeing UNESCO’s Natural Sciences Programme, namely water and environmental sciences, science policy, and capacity building since October 2022. Before rejoining UNESCO, he was a Programme Coordinator for the Japan-ASEAN Science, Technology and Innovation Platform (JASTIP), an STI collaborative initiative led by Kyoto University with the ASEAN Secretariat and Member States. Mr. Fukuhara holds an MSc in Agriculture (Forestry) from Kyoto University and a postgraduate certificate in Water Resources Management from the University of Jordan. His experience includes Programme/Project Officer at UNEP and UNESCO in the Middle East, where he focused on transboundary water issues and environmental management. His contributions to the UNEP-UNESCO joint project led to the World Mixed Heritage inscription of the Iraqi Marshlands of Mesopotamia in 2016. He co-authored numerous UN technical reports, including the UN World Water Development Report.

Varsha Prabhakar is a Data Scientist at Mueller Water Products in Toronto. She has a Master’s degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering from North Carolina State University and over 9 years of experience in designing and implementing data solutions. Her expertise lies in using AI and other mathematical modeling methods to aid the decision-making process. At Mueller, she has developed AI models to identify leaks and to assess the likelihood of pipe failure on water distribution mains. She has recently been involved in developing digital twins to help prioritize leak repairs. Varsha is interested in helping utilities leverage customized AI solutions to make optimal and informed choices.

Speaker Session:
Topic: 

Sali started her career in TNB in 1998 and has held various roles – from IT system development to business development - in various divisions in TNB including Transmission, ICT, Generation, Energy Ventures and Strategy.

She was involved in a few transformational projects in TNB, such as Reimagining TNB that sets TNB to be a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions. Currently in Sustainability Division, her role includes strategic communication and stakeholder engagement.

She holds a BSc degree in Computer Science and MSc degree in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research. She is a nature lover and believes in just transition.

Ir. Mohd Taufik bin Haji Salleh holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from the University Technology of Malaysia (UTM), B.Eng.(Hons.).

Taufik is a professional engineer, registered with the Board of Engineers Malaysia and currently is the Head of Planning and Engineering in IWK. His main areas of expertise are in infrastructure development and sewerage/wastewater management. He worked for several consulting and contracting companies prior to joining Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) in late 1996. He is also an EIA Consultant registered with the Department of Environment Malaysia and a member of several water & wastewater associations.

Since joining IWK, Taufik has been involved in the development of the sewerage industry in Malaysia particularly in the areas of planning, designs, standards development, quality control, environmental & safety management, research & development, capacity building, and operation & maintenance.

SPAN Stream Foum 2 Bio Hj. Ir. Mohd Taufik Salleh

I graduated from Curtin University of Technology, Australia with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Construction Management & Economics. I started off as a Quantity Surveyor in 1997 before moving to SAJ Holdings (Water Operator for the state of Johor, Malaysia) in 2004 as the Head of Contract Section.

In 2009, I was transferred to Ranhill Water Services (RWS) as the Project Manager for a leakage reduction contract in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In Riyadh, 46 DMAs were established with the leakage level reduced from 37% to 13%, all done in a difficult intermittent supply environment. After 3 years in Riyadh, I came back to Malaysia and did business development for the company.

In 2016, I was promoted to Chief Executive Officer of RWS. RWS focuses on NRW management services with a strength of 500 trained workforce.

After 5 years as CEO of RWS, I moved to Ranhill SAJ as the Director of Network. In Ranhill SAJ, I manage the supply operations for Johor covering 23,000 Km of pipelines, 700 reservoirs and more than 1.2 million customer accounts. My main portfolio is NRW control.

In addition, I have been the mentor for several Water Operator Partnership programs in the region representing Ranhill which includes Indonesia, India and Sri Lanka. I am also the author of NRW Chapter in the ‘MWA Planning Guidelines & Best Practices Handbook for Water Supply Systems.

I have presented NRW related papers in several occasions on behalf of the company including Water Loss Events, Asia Water, Water Malaysia and Borneo Water events.

Ir. Abas Abdullah was appointed as Acting Chief Executive Officer on 1 January 2023. He has over 38 years of experience in the water industry.

Ir. Abas graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Civil Engineering from the University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom and he is also a registered Professional Engineer with the Board of Engineers Malaysia.

Ir. Abas served as a Water Engineer at the Selangor Water Supply Department (JBAS) from 1983 to 1998. Throughout his service, he held various positions in terms of water production, distribution, design and planning, user management and also as a District Water Engineer.

Ir. Abas has previously held the position of General Manager, Business Development and Projects of Premier Ayer Sdn. Bhd. from November 1998 to February 2000. From March 2000 to September 2015, he assumed responsibility as the Chief Operating Officer of ABASS Consortium Sdn. Bhd., a subsidiary of Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor which is a publicly listed company owned by the Selangor State Government.

Ir. Abas was also a Water Advisory Member of the Selangor State Government from 2012 to 2015.

Loga Sunthri Veeraiah is a Senior Executive at the Resource and Catchment Planning Division, within the Water and Sewerage Regulatory Department of the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) Malaysia. Loga is part of the team which pioneers ESG activities for SPAN and the water services industry in ensuring that we leverage and cooperation towards green transitioning. These include identifying suitable decarbonization strategies and ESG goals across the sector and concurrently translating these towards amplifying innovative and transformative water services industry. Loga’s endeavors in the past, includes regulatory monitoring of service licensees and authorized operator for the most populated state in Malaysia, Selangor. Specific tasks undertaken includes risk assessment related activities, preparation and implementation of SPAN Water Safety Plan, dam water level monitoring and reporting, providing input into Integrated River Basin management (IRBM) and Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL) and other relevant studies, preparation of incidental reports, and other regulatory functions. With more than 18 years of experience in EHS consulting which includes last 7.5 years with SPAN as a regulator of the water services industry, she brings to the table experience on ESG, climate change, risk assessment and management for the water industry in Malaysia. Loga completed her Bachelor of Engineering (Civil & Environmental) in UTM Malaysia and completed her post graduate degree on MSc in Sustainable Water Management program from the Newcastle University, in the UK.

YBhg. Dato’ Ir. Lim Chow Hock is currently the Past President of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM). He holds a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Malaya and a postgraduate certificate in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Birmingham. He is a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) and an Honorary Fellow of the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM).

YBhg. Dato’ Ir. Lim retired from public service in 2014 after serving for 36 years with the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia (DID). He has extensive experience in the fields of irrigation, agricultural drainage, flood mitigation, urban stormwater management, dam engineering, river engineering, coastal zone management, hydrology, and sustainable water resources management and governance. From 2015–2019, Dato’ Ir. Lim served as a Commissioner of SPAN, a national body which regulates the services related to potable water supply and sewerage. During the same period, he was also appointed as a Technical Advisor to the State Government of Penang on matter related to
flooding and water resources management.

Mr Ridzuan Ismail was the Director of Water Supply Network Department in PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, responsible for the planning, operations and maintenance of the water supply network in Singapore, so as to ensure efficient and continuous supply of good water to all its customers. Prior to this appointment, Ridzuan was involved in catchment and reservoir management as well as the development of the drainage and used water infrastructure.

Since 1 July 2023, he has taken on the role as the Chief Sustainability Officer and Director of the Policy & Planning Department, tasked to oversee PUB’s sustainability efforts and strategic policy and planning work.

Mrs. Haslina binti Amer A.I.S, is the Chief Assistant Director and Head of River Basin and Coastal Management Division in Selangor Waters Management Authority (SWMA/LUAS). She holds a Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering from University of Science Malaysia. She obtained Diploma in Integrated Environment and Water Management from Danish Hydraulic Institute (DHI), Denmark and a Diploma in River Basin Management from CEDDET Foundation, Spain with collaboration program of Network of Asian River Basin Organization (NARBO). She also obtained Certificate on Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Training from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

She has more than 22 year experiences involvement in water resources management and among the nucleus technical staff since the establishment of Selangor Waters Management Authority in 2000. Her work experience covers water resources management and conservation within the basin level which includes the seven (7) main river basins and coastal management in Selangor, Malaysia. She also a coordinator for Selangor Component in ‘Integrated River Basin Management Project’ which is collaboration program Government of Malaysia and Denmark (2002-2007). She has contributed about LUAS Case Studies in “Transforming the Water Sector: National Integrated Water Resources Management Plan, Malaysia”. She also responsible for the implementation of the Integrated River Basin Management Plan Sungai Selangor, Sungai Langat and Sungai Klang, development of Integrated Water Resources Information System (IWRIMS) and LUAS Intelligent Support System (LiSS), regulate and monitors overall development in basin level that include the water resources pollution issues management and the secretariat for Selangor Water Resources Pollution Emergency Committee.

Ir. Ts. Ahmad Shahrir, Director of Perak State Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID Perak), is responsible for carrying out department’s broad range of duties particularly water resources management and hydrology, river basin management, eco-friendly coastal zone, river engineering and agricultural drainage.

Previously, he served as the Director of Operation, of SMART Control Centre, DID Kuala Lumpur and over the span of his career in the DID, he has helmed various senior positions. He has over twenty years of extensive professional experience in river management, good technical skills and proven track record in policy making, strategic planning, negotiating and project management.

Ir. Ts. Ahmad Shahrir played an instrumental role in leading the department in implementing Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) during his service at the River Basin Management Division, DID Malaysia. He also represented the department as a taskforce member in drafting the National Water Resources Bill.

As a top-level manager, he will ensure DID Perak will go beyond in managing water resources for economic and environmental sustainability and quality of life, and always strive to provide the best service to public.

Talent, Training, and Tech: Transforming Leak Detection to Combat NRW

Hugh Chapman
Managing Director
Aqua Analytics

In the contemporary landscape of municipal water management, non-revenue water (NRW) presents a significant challenge, directly impacting sustainability and economic viability. This paper delves into the transformative role of talent, training, and technology in addressing NRW, specifically focusing on enhancing leak detection strategies.

We analyse the current state of NRW globally, highlighting the critical need for improved leak detection methodologies. This is followed by an exploration of the talent aspect, where we discuss the importance of skilled professionals adept in the latest water management technologies and methods. Training initiatives that upskill personnel and foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation are then examined.

The technological dimension forms the crux of our discussion. Here, we present cutting-edge tools and technologies that have revolutionised leak detection - from advanced acoustic sensors to inline inspection techniques. We demonstrate how integrating these technologies, guided by expert talent and comprehensive training, can significantly reduce NRW.

Finally, the paper outlines a strategic framework that water utilities can adopt to effectively integrate these three key elements. Through case studies and current best practices, we illustrate the potential for significant NRW reduction, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and efficiency of water resources management.

This paper aims to provide a roadmap for water utilities, policymakers, and industry professionals, advocating for a synergistic approach to combating NRW through talent, training, and technology.

Dato’ Ir. Nor Hisham Bin Mohd. Ghazali is the Vice-President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID). He is also an independent non-executive director at Pengurusan Asset Air Berhad and Chairman of the Malaysian Water Partnership. He retired form Government service as Director-General of the National Institute of Water Research Malaysia (NAHRIM), and prior to that, he was the Director General of Department of Irrigation & Drainage Malaysia (JPS). He holds a B. Sc. in Civil Engineering from California State University and a Masters’ Degree in Coastal and Maritime Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Dato’ Nor Hisham has over 35 years of service and experience in operational, technical, research, management and policy positions. Trained as a coastal engineer, he pioneered the Integrated Shoreline Management Program in 1997 which led to Malaysia’s first coastal development guidelines. Since 2008, his focus has been on planning and implementing projects related to water resources and water-related disaster risk reduction. His recent achievements include establishing the National Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre and the planning and construction of the first concrete Sabo structures to mitigate debris and mud flood flows at Yan and Kuala Muda, Kedah.

Through MyWP, he aspires to accelerate the education and awareness of Integrated Water Resources Management amongst all levels of society particularly amongst decision-makers, administrators and development planners.