PUB and Ontario government inks MOU on clean water technologies research

Both Singapore and Ontario target of becoming centers for water technologies that drive innovations through research, testing and application of emerging technologies.

PUB, Singapore's national water agency, and the Government of Ontario, Canada, have agreed to enter into a strategic alliance to conduct advanced clean water research and development.

Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Ontario and PUB will collaborate in the areas of clean water technologies and exchange knowledge and expertise that leverage each jurisdiction’s resources.

Singapore and Ontario have a shared goal to become hubs for water technologies that drive innovations through research, testing and application of emerging technologies.

“This MOU bodes well as Singapore aims to draw world-class research and development of talent and companies in the water sector, in line with our aspiration to build Singapore as a hub for water knowledge and solutions,” says Mr Khoo Teng Chye, Executive Director of the Environment and Water Industry Programme Office (EWI) and Chief Executive of PUB.

“Together, Ontario and Singapore are driving the next generation of clean water technologies. By tapping into our “made-in-Ontario” expertise, we are protecting and improving access to clean water, creating skilled jobs, attracting investments, and growing our economy – today and for future generations. Through this agreement today, I see great promise for collaboration and growth,” said Glen Murray, Ontario Minister of Research and Innovation.

Ontario is the first North American jurisdiction to enter into such an agreement with Singapore. More than 70 water companies and 14 corporate research and development centres have already set up facilities and offices in Singapore.

Ontario has good strengths in water research and innovation. The first Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize winner, Dr Andrew Benedek, is a Canadian citizen who founded Zenon, which is based in Ontario.

The agreement demonstrates a commitment by Singapore and Ontario to develop long-term solutions for clean water treatment, management and conservation locally and globally.