Speeches and Statements – Permanent Mission to the UN

Mr President

Sustainable water management is not a matter of choice for Singapore, but one of survival. 

When we became independent in 1965, only 45% of our population had access to proper sanitation.  It took three decades for us to achieve 100% access to safe drinking water and sanitation for all Singaporeans, regardless of social strata and gender.

To overcome our vulnerability, we adopted a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.  

We did this through integrated planning, building water infrastructure ahead of demand, making effective use of new technology, and working with the community on water conservation.

We developed 4 “National Taps”, namely water from local catchments, imported water, high-grade reclaimed water called NEWater, and desalination. 

We also took care to ensure that water demand did not increase unsustainably.  This was done by pricing water to reflect its true economic cost and ensure financial sustainability.  For low-income groups, targeted help is provided in the form of rebates, ensuring affordability of water services for all. We also capped flow rates for showers and taps, and implemented public education and outreach programs to encourage Singaporeans to use water wisely.

Mr President,

Singapore has also been sharing our experience and expertise on water management with other developing countries through training courses under the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP).

Singapore also hosts the Singapore International Water Week biennially to bring together water experts, government officials, businesses, academics and civil society to exchange views and ideas on the innovative ways to conserve and manage scarce water supply.

In March this year, Singapore partnered with UN Women to hold a side event at the 59^th Commission on the Status of Women on “Unlocking multiple benefits for women and girls through sanitation and hygiene in the Post-2015 Era”.

We remain committed to working with other UN member states to promote equal and universal access to water and sanitation.

Thank you Mr President.

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