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Renowned Dutch Microbiologist and Expert in Water Quality and Health Named Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2024 Laureate

Singapore, 16 April 2024

Professor Gertjan Medema, 62 years old, has been awarded the prestigious Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2024 for his breakthrough research and discovery, and significant contributions in the field of wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). His research revolutionised the application of WBE for virus detection in wastewater during the COVID-19 pandemic.

2      “It is my great honour and privilege to receive the distinguished Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize. This award is a recognition of the innovative use of wastewater as a data source for trends in COVID-19 circulation in our communities. I see it also as a recognition of the hard work of many people in the water sector globally, collecting COVID-19 data from wastewater to support our society’s response to the pandemic. This tightens the connections between the water and health sectors. In the current post-pandemic world, wastewater monitoring is now firmly established as a tool for public health surveillance for an increasing number of diseases,” said Professor Medema, Principal Microbiologist at the KWR Water Research Institute, and the 10th recipient of the award since 2008.

Professor Medema’s contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic

3      With the emergence of COVID-19 in early 2020, Professor Gertjan Medema, a renowned microbiologist and an expert in water quality and health, and his team, recognised the need for early detection and monitoring, and began collecting wastewater samples across the Netherlands to test for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. He quickly focused his team’s research on curbing the spread of the virus in the community through wastewater surveillance. The results were promising when evidence of the virus was detected in the wastewater of several cities even before they were officially reported in these cities.

4      Professor Medema's work has been foundational in establishing WBE as a tool for public health surveillance during the pandemic. The impact of his work was evident from his first publication in this area which garnered substantial attention with over 1,400 citations and more than 34,000 views between 2020 and 2023. Wastewater surveillance has since been adopted worldwide as a powerful tool for the early detection of diseases like SARS-CoV-2, even before cases are reported through clinical testing. This in turn provides valuable insights into the prevalence of the virus in a community, and a proven cost-effective and non-invasive method for tracking the spread of the disease.

Wastewater Surveillance in Singapore

5      At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore in 2020, NEA’s Environmental Health Institute (EHI), in collaboration with PUB, Singapore’s national water agency, the Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX), and other partners from local universities1 and research institutes2 explored wastewater monitoring as an epidemiological tool and early warning system for outbreaks. Through partnerships with relevant institutions3, innovative solutions in wastewater surveillance were quickly developed to respond to the national need. Singapore bolstered its national surveillance efforts for COVID-19 transmission by expanding coverage to hundreds of sites, including water reclamation plants, workers’ dormitories, residential areas, town centres, student hostels, and welfare homes. Today, the wastewater sampling network covers more than 500 sites across Singapore. Apart from situational monitoring of COVID-19, wastewater surveillance has also been applied to monitor Zika transmission in Singapore. NEA and the network of partners will continue to conduct research and development to build on the wastewater testing system, to support public health in Singapore.

Significant impact to global scientific community

6      Wastewater has been tested for SARS-CoV-2 in at least 72 countries at over 4000 reported sites4, with Professor Medema himself connected to about 30% of these programmes directly. Amidst his active involvement in international collaborations, and sharing of expertise and findings with the global scientific community, he has made great contributions to the development of international guidelines and best practices for wastewater surveillance.

7      Dedicated to advancing the science of waterborne pathogens, Professor Medema advises the World Health Organization (WHO) on microbiological drinking water guidelines and Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA); SARS, Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH); and wastewater surveillance. He also advises the European Commission on the EU Drinking Water Directives and water reuse guidelines, thereby ensuring that the knowledge gained from his research is disseminated widely and applied effectively. His leadership in this area has helped to establish a network of researchers and practitioners dedicated to using WBE as a tool for public health surveillance. As the world braces itself for other emerging diseases, wastewater surveillance has been established as a vital tool in safeguarding public health through Professor Medema.

8      Professor Medema will receive the Prize – an award certificate, a gold medallion and a cash prize of S$300,000 sponsored by the Temasek Foundation, from Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, at an award ceremony on Tuesday, 18 June 2024. He will deliver a keynote lecture on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, during the Singapore International Water Week 2024, which is expected to be attended by 500 global water leaders, 2,000 delegates, and more than 30,000 trade visitors.


1Nanyang Technological University and National University of Singapore
2Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE)
3Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and Public Sector Science and Technology Policy and Plans Office (S&TPPO)
4https://www.covid19wbec.org/covidpoops19

END



Media Factsheets:
PUB's Role in Wastewater Surveillance During Covid-19
NEA's Wastewater Surveillance of Covid-19 and Zika Viruses


For further press enquiries, please contact:

Angel Huang
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Keith Kwan
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Email: Keith.Kwan@hillandknowlton.com


About the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize
Launched in 2008 to honour outstanding contributions by individuals or organisations towards solving the world's water problems by developing or applying innovative technologies, or implementing policies and programmes which benefit humanity, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize is the highlight of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW). Named after Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize laureate receives a certificate, a gold medallion and S$300,000 sponsored by the Temasek Foundation, at the award ceremony held during SIWW.

About the Singapore International Water Week (www.siww.com.sg)
As one of the premier global platforms, the biennial SIWW gathers thought leaders, experts and practitioners from governments, cities, utilities, and industry to share knowledge and best practices on innovative water, coastal and flood solutions, and foster partnerships to tackle urban water and associated climate challenges. Organised by PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency and Singapore’s Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, SIWW flagship programmes include the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, Leaders Roundtable and Summit, Water Convention, Water Expo, Thematic and Business Forums and Technical Site Visits. The 10th edition of SIWW will be held from 18 to 22 June 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, alongside CleanEnviro Summit Singapore organised by Singapore’s National Environment Agency.

To find out more:
Follow us on www.linkedin.com/company/siww and https://twitter.com/WaterWeekSG
Like us at www.facebook.com/siww.com.sg

[Hanoi] Singapore International Water Week 2024 Sets the Stage for Global Water Industry Collaboration

SIWW2024 to gather over 2,000 water leaders and experts, and 500 global exhibitors to showcase innovation and foster partnerships to tackle urban water and associated climate challenges.

SIWW-IFAT.png
HANOI, VIETNAM, 28 March 2024 – As one of the leading global water events focused on innovation and solutions, the 10th Singapore International Water Week (SIWW), to be held from 18 to 22 June 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, will once again play host to global leaders, experts and practitioners from governments, cities, water utilities, agencies, industry and academia to share and co-create innovative solutions to solve the world’s urban water and associated climate challenges.

SIWW2024 is organised by PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency and Singapore’s Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment. Key themes such as climate mitigation, water sustainability, net zero and decarbonisation, resource circularity, digitalisation, and a new pillar on climate adaptation, will be featured across SIWW flagship programmes including the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, Leaders Roundtable and Summit, Water Convention, and Water Expo.

In anticipation of the event in June, SIWW2024 held a roadshow in Hanoi, Vietnam today. The roadshow was attended by more than 100 local senior utility and industry leaders, distributors, industrial water end-users, as well as trade associations and chambers.

Ryan Yuen, Managing Director of Singapore International Water Week said, “Amidst water challenges brought about by climate change, SIWW2024 offers an ideal platform to connect Asian municipal and industrial water stakeholders with global experts and leaders who are at the forefront of innovation. Through the myriad of programmes presented at the show, SIWW2024 will facilitate new business partnerships and spur action to build a more sustainable water future for all.”

SIWW2024 Water Expo

A cornerstone of SIWW, the Water Expo, taking place from 19 to 21 June 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, is the pre-eminent marketplace for the international water, coastal and flood communities to converge and find opportunities in business. Held in cooperation with IFAT, the world’s leading trade fair for environmental technologies, and organised by Messe Munich, the Water Expo will host over 500 global exhibitors who will showcase their latest urban water technologies, innovations, and solutions for municipal and industrial water users in Southeast Asia.

The Water Expo also provides an avenue for industry leaders in Vietnam to connect with global manufacturers, suppliers, technology, and solution providers to collaborate and overcome the effects of climate change and challenges facing urban water management. Attendees can expect innovative exhibits in the areas of water and sewage treatment, mechanical engineering and plant engineering in water management, flood and coastal protection, water digitalisation, water financing, water insurance, and more. A key highlight for the SIWW2024 Water Expo is a new thematic zone featuring innovations in coastal protection and flood resilience.

Michael Wilton, CEO of MMI Asia shared, “We are committed to providing a first-class experience for industry players to foster partnerships and innovation in water management at the long-awaited Water Expo this year. With our global network, we are collaborating with international experts to address today’s water challenges, specifically in the areas of coastal protection, as well as decarbonisation and digitalisation. With the rapid pace of urbanisation and industrialisation in Vietnam, we hope that our collective efforts will be instrumental in shaping a sustainable future for the water landscape in Vietnam, and throughout the region.”

Hosted Buyers Programme

To further encourage industry collaborations, SIWW2024 has introduced the Hosted Buyers Programme to exclusively host local decision-makers involved in water infrastructure development at this year’s event. This programme is entitled to decision-makers in end-user environments, water/waste infrastructure development for industrial parks, satellite cities and developers, large-scale industrial end-users, and more. Interested participants may register their interest via https://bit.ly/siww-2024-hbp

Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Diep, Chairman of the Vietnam Water Supply and Sewerage Association (VWSA) said: “We are delighted to participate in the SIWW2024 Roadshow today. Thank you, PUB, and MMI Asia for organising this event. Vietnam's water industry is developing,and it is a large market for suppliers of materials, equipment, and technology in the region. The fact that PUB and MMI Asia organised the Roadshow in Hanoi today is an opportunity for Vietnamese water enterprises to learn more about the scale and the size of SIWW. We hope to have time to join SIWW2024 in June this year to explore and connect new technologies for Vietnam's water industry."

Join Us

SIWW2024 is expected to be attended by 500 global water leaders, 2,000 delegates, 500 exhibitors and more than 30,000 trade visitors. Registration for SIWW2024 is now open.

Trade Visitor pass to the SIWW2024 Water Expo is complimentary. Register at: https://waterexporegistration.siww.com.sg/SIWW2024

To attend the full SIWW2024 programme, register as a delegate at: https://siww2024registration.siww.com.sg/SIWW2024

For more event information and details, visit www.siww.com.sg/home

END




About Singapore International Water Week

The Global Platform to Share and Co-Create Innovative Water, Coastal and Flood Solutions

As one of the premier global platforms, the biennial Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) gathers thought leaders, experts and practitioners from governments, cities, utilities, and industry to share knowledge and best practices on innovative water, coastal and flood solutions, and foster partnerships to tackle urban water and associated climate challenges.

Organised by PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency and Singapore’s Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, SIWW flagship programmes include the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, Leaders Roundtable and Summit, Water Convention, Water Expo, Thematic and Business Forums and Technical Site Visits.

The 10th edition of SIWW will be held from 18 to 22 June 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, alongside CleanEnviro Summit Singapore organised by Singapore’s National Environment Agency.

SIWW is part of the strategic programme of the Singapore Government to grow the water industry and develop water technologies.


For further press enquiries, please contact:
Gena See
Marketing Manager
MMI Asia Pte Ltd
Tel: +65 9227 8201
Email: gena.see@mmiasia.com.sg

[Kuala Lumpur] Singapore International Water Week 2024 Sets the Stage for Global Water Industry Collaboration

Kuala Lumpur, 7 March 2024

As one of the leading global water events focused on innovation and solutions, the 10th Singapore International Water Week (SIWW), to be held from 18 to 22 June 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, will once again play host to global leaders, experts and practitioners from governments, cities, water utilities, agencies, industry and academia to share and co-create innovative solutions to solve the world’s urban water and associated climate challenges.

SIWW2024 is organised by PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency and Singapore’s Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment. Key themes such as climate mitigation, water sustainability, net zero and decarbonisation, resource circularity, digitalisation, and a new pillar on climate adaptation, will be featured across SIWW flagship programmes including the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, Leaders Roundtable and Summit, Water Convention, and Water Expo.

In anticipation of the event, SIWW2024 kicked off its first roadshow in Malaysia today which was attended by more than 60 local senior utility and industry leaders, distributors, industrial water end-users, as well as trade associations and chambers.

Ryan Yuen, Managing Director of Singapore International Water Week said, “Amidst water challenges brought about by climate change, SIWW2024 offers an ideal platform to connect Asian municipal and industrial water stakeholders with global experts and leaders who are at the forefront of innovation. Through the myriad of programmes presented at the show, SIWW2024 will facilitate new business partnerships and spur action to build a more sustainable water future for all.”

SIWW2024 Water Expo

A cornerstone of SIWW, the Water Expo, taking place from 19 to 21 June 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, is the pre-eminent marketplace for the international water, coastal and flood communities to converge and find opportunities in business. The Water Expo is held in cooperation with IFAT, the world’s leading trade fair for environmental technologies, and organised by Messe Munich. Over 500 global exhibitors will showcase their latest urban water technologies, innovations, and solutions for municipal and industrial water users in Southeast Asia.

The Water Expo also provides an avenue for Malaysian industry leaders to connect with global manufacturers, suppliers, technology, and solution providers to collaborate and overcome the effects of climate change and challenges facing urban water management. Attendees can expect innovations exhibits in the areas of water and sewage treatment, mechanical engineering and plant engineering in water management, flood and coastal protection, water digitalisation, water financing, water insurance, and more. A key highlight for the SIWW2024 Water Expo is a new thematic zone featuring innovations in coastal protection and flood resilience.

Michael Wilton, CEO of MMI Asia shared, “Water is a critical resource and plays a vital role in Malaysia’s sustainable future for generations to come. In order to overcome today’s industrial water challenges, we are committed to providing a first-class experience for industry players to foster partnerships and innovation in water management at the long-awaited Water Expo. With our global network, we are collaborating with international experts to address today’s water challenges, specifically in the areas of coastal protection, as well as decarbonisation and digitalisation. We hope that our collective efforts will be instrumental in shaping a sustainable future for the water landscape throughout the region.”

Hosted Buyers Programme

To further encourage industry collaborations, SIWW2024 has introduced the Hosted Buyers Programme to exclusively host local decision-makers involved in water infrastructure development at this year’s event. This programme is entitled but not limited to, Malaysia’s decision-makers in end-user environments, water/waste infrastructure development for industrial parks, satellite cities and developers, large-scale industrial end-users, and more. Interested participants may register their interest via https://bit.ly/siww-2024-hbp

Dr. Ir. Ts. Hj. Mohmad Asari Daud, President of the Malaysian Water Association (MWA) said, “In order to tackle our country’s most pressing water challenges, it is imperative for us to connect with experts from across the globe to gain invaluable insights and solutions. I am always thrilled to join this dynamic platform, where knowledge meets action, to contribute to shaping a sustainable water future for Malaysia.”

Join Us

SIWW2024 is expected to be attended by 500 global water leaders, 2000 delegates, 500 exhibitors and more than 30,000 trade visitors. Registration for SIWW2024 will open on 18 March 2024. Trade Visitor Pass to the SIWW2024 Water Expo is complimentary. Visit www.siww.com.sg/home for more event information and details.

END




About Singapore International Water Week

The Global Platform to Share and Co-Create Innovative Water, Coastal and Flood Solutions

As one of the premier global platforms, the biennial Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) gathers thought leaders, experts and practitioners from governments, cities, utilities, and industry to share knowledge and best practices on innovative water, coastal and flood solutions, and foster partnerships to tackle urban water and associated climate challenges.

Organised by PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency and Singapore’s Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, SIWW flagship programmes include the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, Leaders Roundtable and Summit, Water Convention, Water Expo, Thematic and Business Forums and Technical Site Visits.

The 10th edition of SIWW will be held from 18 to 22 June 2024 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, alongside CleanEnviro Summit Singapore organised by Singapore’s National Environment Agency.

SIWW is part of the strategic programme of the Singapore Government to grow the water industry and develop water technologies.


For further press enquiries, please contact:
Casey Tan
Senior Executive
Hill & Knowlton
Tel: +60 17 339 0711
Email: CaseyPE.Tan@hillandknowlton.com

Atikah Hamid
Associate
Hill & Knowlton
Tel: +60 19 924 3532
Email: atikah.hamid@hillandknowlton.com

Singapore International Water Week Pte Ltd and Messe München join hands in a long-term partnership to organize the Singapore International Water Week

Singapore/Munich, February 16, 2023

  • MMI Asia Pte. Ltd. awarded a 10-year agreement to organize the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) Water Expo
  • Partnership introduces Messe München’s IFAT to Southeast Asia through SIWW which will propel its growth to a new level
  • Preparations are already underway for the new partnership, commencing from SIWW2024 which will take place from 18 to 22 June 2024

Singapore International Water Week Pte Ltd (SIPL) and Messe München’s wholly owned subsidiary in Singapore, MMI Asia Pte. Ltd. (MMI Asia), have announced a long-term, 10-year agreement to organize the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) Water Expo, one of the global premier water events.

A cornerstone of SIWW, the Water Expo is the pre-eminent marketplace for the latest urban water technologies, innovation, and solutions for municipal and industrial water users in Southeast Asia. Under this 10-year agreement from 2023 to 2032, MMI Asia will organize five editions of the SIWW Water Expo and support SIPL in developing high-quality and impactful content at the show, tapping into the significant influence of the world’s largest and leading environmental technology platform IFAT.

SIPL’s Managing Director, Ryan Yuen said: “We are pleased to partner with Messe München who brings a unique value proposition that complements our long-term vision for SIWW. Through the IFAT global network, we look forward to reaching a wider international audience, creating more business opportunities, and showcasing innovative water solutions and products to water agencies and the industry. MMI Asia will also work with us to expand SIWW into new growth areas, such as coastal protection, decarbonization and digitalization, to fortify our position as a leading global event on water innovation and climate action.”

International business is a driving force for Messe München. For years, the company has been successfully expanding its portfolio around strong leading trade fairs worldwide. “As part of our strategic orientation, we are also continuously expanding the company in Singapore and developing our event formats further. The new cooperation with SIWW represents an important milestone in this strategy,” said the two CEOs of Messe München, Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer and Stefan Rummel. “Our subsidiary MMI Asia with its local presence in Singapore plays an important role in driving Messe München’s internationalization course in Southeast Asia, which the latest success proves.”

In addition to organising the SIWW Water Expo, MMI Asia and its partner, MP Singapore, will also be providing event management services for SIWW Spotlight 2023 and SIWW2024 to deliver a seamless delegate experience for the two events.

Michael Wilton, CEO & Managing Director of MMI Asia, explained: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work together with SIPL on the Singapore International Water Week, an event that has an enormous influence beyond Southeast Asia. It complements perfectly Messe München’s expertise and know-how in this vital sector for Singapore and the rest of the region. We are committed to providing a first-class experience for the industry and together with the power of IFAT bring extra value to the key topics facing the region today.”

Katharina Schlegel, Exhibition Director IFAT and bauma shows, elaborated: “This cooperation is another significant part in the global IFAT network, which will now be represented through SIWW in the increasingly important region of Southeast Asia. As the gateway to Southeast Asia, Singapore and SIWW will complement our four IFAT trade fairs in China, such as IE expo China. I am convinced that there will be immense synergy effects here for the Asian region, but the IFAT network in general will also benefit from this in the short and medium term.”

Preparations for SIWW Spotlight 2023 and SIWW2024 are already underway. Applications for exhibition space at the SIWW2024 Water Expo will open soon. Companies who are keen to exhibit are encouraged to contact MMI Asia early.

END


Joining of hands in long-term partnership for the SIWW.jpg
SIPL’s Managing Director, Ryan Yuen, shakes hands with Stefan Rummel, Managing Director of the CEO dual leadership, Messe München, to signify the joining of hands in a long-term partnership for the Singapore International Water Week


SIWW2022 Water Expo.jpg
SIWW2022 Water Expo, the first large-scale in-person event to take place in Singapore since the COVID-19 pandemic, featured 250 exhibitors, including 13 country/ regional and thematic pavilions


SIWW2022.jpg
At SIWW2022, key topics such as climate mitigation and adaptation, resource circularity, net zero and decarbonization were discussed to spur innovation and share sustainable solutions and best practices



For more information, please contact:

Press Contact
Fulvia Wong
Singapore International Water Week Pte Ltd
Michael Wilton
MMI Asia

Exhibition Contact
Yan Wang
MMI Asia

Singapore International Water Week
Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) is a global premier platform to share and co-create innovative water solutions to meet urban water challenges. As one of the leading global water events, the biennial SIWW delivers a range of flagship programmes and platforms that gathers stakeholders from governments, utilities, academia, and industry to share best practices and solutions, showcase the latest technologies and harness business opportunities. The 10th Singapore International Water Week will be held from 18 to 22 June 2024.

To find out more:
Visit our website at www.siww.com.sg

Singapore International Water Week Pte Ltd
Singapore International Water Week Pte Ltd is a company set up by PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency and Singapore's Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, as part of the strategic programme of the Singapore Government to grow the water industry and develop water technologies.

IFAT worldwide
Messe München not only demonstrates its considerable expertise in organizing environmental technology trade shows with the world’s leading trade fair IFAT Munich. Other international events include IE expo China in Shanghai, IE expo Chengdu in Chengdu, IE expo Guangzhou in Guangzhou, IE expo Shenzhen in Shenzhen, IFAT Africa in Johannesburg, IFAT Eurasia in Istanbul, IFAT India in Mumbai, and IFAT Delhi in New Delhi. Together, the eight IFAT events form the world’s leading network for environmental technologies.

Messe München
Messe München is one of the leading exhibition organizers worldwide with more than 50 of its own trade shows for capital goods, consumer goods and new technologies. Every year, a total of over 50,000 exhibitors and around three million visitors take part in more than 200 events at the exhibition center in Munich, at the ICM – Internationales Congress Center München, the Conference Center Nord and the MOC Veranstaltungscenter München as well as abroad. Together with its subsidiary companies, Messe München organizes trade shows in China, India, Brazil, South Africa and Turkey. With a network of associated companies in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America as well as around 70 representations abroad for over 100 countries, Messe München has a global presence.

Nominations for Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2024 launched at UN 2023 Water Conference

Singapore, March 24, 2023

The Singapore International Water Week today launched a call for nominations for the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize (LKYWP) 2024 – a prestigious international award that honours outstanding contributions by individuals or organisations towards solving the world’s water challenges by developing or applying innovative technologies, policies or programmes which benefit humanity.

2    Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu announced the opening of nominations for the LKYWP 2024 in a speech delivered at a side event hosted by Singapore during the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York. The Singapore event – “Water, Technology and Sustainable Development” – was well attended by international leaders in the water sector who shared best practices in leveraging technology for sustainable water management. The leaders also shared how the international community can work collectively to catalyse innovation for a water-resilient future, in support of Sustainable Development Goal 6.

3    The LKYWP is named after Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew, whose foresight and leadership have enabled Singapore to attain a sustainable water supply despite being a highly urbanised city-state with little natural water resources. Since its inception in 2008, the Prize, which is sponsored by Temasek Foundation, has gained a strong standing in the global water community for its recognition of innovative water technologies, policies or programmes that have been game-changers in their real-world application.

4    The honour roll for the Prize includes Laureates who have developed ground-breaking solutions in membrane technology and used water treatment, as well as holistic water policies and management practices, that have benefitted the lives of millions. Their achievements represent the pinnacle in sustainable water solutions that have made a difference to cities and people around the world.

5    The LKYWP 2024 Laureate will be announced next year, on World Water Day, on 22 March 2024. The Laureate will receive S$300,000, a gold medallion and a certificate, at an award ceremony during the 10th Singapore International Water Week, to be held from 18 to 22 June 2024 in Singapore.

Nomination process

6    Leaders of international water companies and water utilities, top academics in water research, policy and/or management, heads of international organisations, members of government, or distinguished individuals in the field of water are welcome to submit nominations of suitable candidates for the LKYWP 2024. This can be done online by uploading a citation of the nominee's achievements at https://go.gov.sg/lkywp2024nomination. Nominations for the LKYWP 2024 are open from 24 March 2023 to 30 June 2023.

7    Shortlisted nominees will be notified to submit supporting documents for more detailed evaluations by the Water Prize Nominating Committee. The Nominating Committee will thoroughly evaluate all shortlisted nominations and make their recommendations to the Water Prize Council, who will then decide on the LKYWP 2024 Laureate. For more information, visit https://www.siww.com.sg/landing-page/nomination-guidelines or email leekuanyewwaterprize@siww.com.sg.

END




For media queries, please contact:

Fulvia Wong
PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency
Tel: 97723716
Lynn Hong
PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency
Tel: 97640438


About Singapore International Water Week
Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) is a global premier platform to share and co-create innovative water solutions to meet urban water challenges. As one of the leading global water events, the biennial SIWW delivers a range of flagship programmes and platforms that gathers stakeholders from governments, utilities, academia, and industry to share best practices and solutions, showcase the latest technologies and harness business opportunities. The 10th Singapore International Water Week will be held from 18 to 22 June 2024.

To find out more:
Visit our website at www.siww.com.sg

About PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency
PUB is a statutory board under the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE). It is the national water agency, which manages Singapore’s water supply, water catchment, and used water in an integrated way. From April 2020, PUB also took on the responsibility of protecting Singapore’s coastline from sea-level rise as the national coastal protection agency.

PUB has ensured a diversified and sustainable supply of water for Singapore with the Four National Taps (local catchment water, imported water, NEWater, desalinated water). PUB leads and coordinates whole-of-government efforts to protect Singapore from the threat of rising seas and the holistic management of inland and coastal flood risks.

PUB calls on everyone to play a part in conserving water, in keeping our waterways clean, and in caring for Singapore’s precious water resources. If we all do our little bit, there will be enough water for all our needs – for commerce and industry, for living, for life.

Find out more about us:
Subscribe to our channel at www.youtube.com/sgPUB

About The Prize Sponsor – Temasek Foundation
Temasek Foundation supports a diverse range of programmes that uplift lives and communities in Singapore and beyond. Temasek Foundation’s programmes are made possible through philanthropic endowments gifted by Temasek, as well as gifts and other contributions from other donors. These programmes strive towards achieving positive outcomes for individuals and communities now, and for generations to come. Collectively, Temasek Foundation’s programmes strengthen social resilience, foster international exchange and regional capabilities, advance science, and protect the planet.

For more information, visit: www.temasekfoundation.org.sg



Annex A – Information on Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Laureates (2008-2020)

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2020 Laureate – Prof Kazuo Yamamoto

Professor Kazuo Yamamoto was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize for 2020 for his pioneering work in developing the submerged membrane bioreactor (MBR). His successful demonstration, in 1989, of the first operational submerged MBR was a major breakthrough in the field of wastewater treatment. And since then, the global application of submerged MBR technology has fundamentally transformed the sewage treatment process and improved the lives of hundreds of millions of people.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2018 Laureate – Prof Rita Colwell

Professor Rita Colwell was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2018 for her pioneering insights into microbial water quality surveillance, and her pivotal contributions in translating these insights into concrete practices and policies to better manage waterborne diseases and protect public health.

Her breakthrough discovery of the “viable but non-culturable” (VBNC) phenomenon showed that bacteria can exist in a state in which they are alive and can cause harm even though they cannot be cultured. The VBNC phenomenon has now been shown to exist in more than 50 species of bacteria, including many pathogens.

Building upon this discovery, Professor Colwell was an early and active proponent of the use of novel molecular methods for more accurate and comprehensive diagnostics of water pathogens.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2016 Laureate – Prof John Anthony Cherry

Professor John Anthony Cherry was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2016 for his contributions to the advancement of groundwater science, policies, and technologies. His revolutionary research in collaboration with international partners has provided the global groundwater community with a better scientific framework to formulate policies and best practices.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2014 Laureate – Orange County Water District

Orange County Water District (OCWD) was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2014. The impact of their successful water reuse programme extends far beyond the county to the states of Texas and Colorado in the United States, and has also been replicated in countries such as Australia, Singapore to achieve water sustainability through water reuse, benefitting millions in the process.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2012 Laureate – Prof Mark van Loosdrecht

Professor Mark Van Loosdrecht was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2012 for his breakthrough contributions in used water treatment, with his completely autotrophic nitrogen removal process – Anammox. Professor Van Loosdrecht introduced a paradigm shift in the understanding of the used water treatment process. His ground-breaking work in marrying nature and engineering has formed the basis for many variants in use today.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2011 Laureate – Dr James Barnard

Dr James Barnard was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2011 for inventing a biological method to treat used water so that it can be returned safely to lakes and rivers. His technology, Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR), uses naturally-occurring micro-organisms instead of conventional chemicals to remove nitrogen and phosphorous from used water.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2010 – Yellow River Conservancy Commission

Yellow River Conservancy Commission (YRCC) was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2010 for its outstanding accomplishments in integrated basin management that was unrivalled in scale. YRCC had secured water supply for over one hundred million people, restored extensive areas of wetlands and biodiversity, and protected some 90 million people living in the flood-prone areas.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2009 – Prof Gatze Lettinga

Professor Gatze Lettinga was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2009 for this breakthrough, environmentally sustainable solution for the treatment of used water using anaerobic technology His revolutionary treatment concept enables industrial used water to be purified cost-effectively, and produces renewable energy, fertilisers and soil conditioners.

Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2008 – Dr Andrew Benedek

Dr Andrew Benedek was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2008 for his outstanding work in pioneering the development of low-pressure membranes in water treatment. He showed how drinking water can be produced from different water sources, even those that are highly polluted.



Annex B – Nomination Guidelines and Evaluation Process

Nomination Guidelines

1    The Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize honours outstanding contributions by individuals or organisations towards solving the world's water problems by developing or applying innovative technologies, policies or programmes which benefit humanity.

Nomination Process

2    A valid nominee for the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize should have made outstanding achievements in any water-related field. The work should have demonstrated the innovativeness of technologies, policies or programmes. The work should have proven impact or demonstrated great potential to be a game-changer in the future.

3    The submission of nominations for Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2024 follows a rigorous two-stage process. The first stage is for the nominator to submit a citation of the nominee. Self-nominations and nominations by family members of nominees will not be accepted. Self-nomination includes nomination made by an individual from the same organisation as the nominee. In the second stage, nominators of shortlisted nominees will be informed to submit a full nomination, including a detailed write-up of the cited technological innovation and/or the implemented water policy and programme, recommendation letters and additional supporting documents.

Selection Process

4    All nominations will be examined by the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Nominating Committee. The Committee will make their recommendations to the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Council, which will make the final selection of the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Laureate. Both panels consist of prominent thought leaders, distinguished academics and water experts from the public and private sectors. All received nominations will be evaluated on the following criteria:

a. Role of nominee
The nominator should describe the role of the nominee in the development and implementation of the specific technologies, policies or programmes that underpin the nomination. In particular, the leadership of the nominee as well as the nominee's instrumental contributions should be highlighted.

b. Innovativeness and merits of the technologies, policies or programmes
The innovativeness and benefits of the referenced technologies, policies and programmes should be described in detail. Nominators are encouraged to include comparisons with the state-of-the-art technologies or existing policies and programmes, and depict how the nominee's work has been proven to be a game changer or shown great potential to do so.

c. Impact on humanity
The current level of readiness and scale of implementation of the referenced technologies, policies and programmes should be described. Nominators should quantify the impact of nominee's work in benefitting humanity, or project any long-term benefits in cases where the level of readiness and scale of the implementation is currently low.

Call for Nominations

5    The first stage of nomination is open. All submissions should be completed by 30 June 2023, Friday, 6pm (+8 GMT) through the online portal: https://go.gov.sg/lkywp2024nomination



Contact Information

6    For enquiries or more information on the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, please contact:

Singapore International Water Week
Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Secretariat
40 Scotts Road, #22-01, Environment Building
Singapore 228231