Dynamic Solutions for Managing Water Resources in Urban Areas in the 21st Century: The Role of NGOs
Dynamic Solutions for Managing Water Resources in Urban Areas in the 21st Century: The Role of NGOs
www.unep.or.jp/ietc/wwf3/Highlights/WaterforCities/Presentation/CNW-Abstract.doc
Chan Ngai WengPresidentWater Watch Penang10 Brown Road, 10350 Penang, MalaysiaTel: 6-04-2283306; Fax: 6-04-6585313{email: waterwatchchan@hotmail.com}
ABSTRACT
Water is the issue of the 21st century, with a significant number of countries without adequate and clean water. Yet, countries like Malaysia that are blessed with abundant water resources are not without water problems. Water crises arise because of mismanagement, pollution, abuse, wastage, public apathy, ineffective privatisation, and other reasons. Water resources are managed via a top-down approach, but in the new millennium, the public is expected to play an increasingly active role as a “partner” of the government. Government needs to increase public consultation and participation in all relevant development and tap on the expertise of the public and NGOs in water resource management. NGOs are made up of experts in every field and can contribute immensely. NGOs offer their service for free and are committed to the issues close to their hearts. Water Watch Penang (WWP), the only water NGO in Malaysia, is solely concerned with saving water and the creation of a “Water Saving Society”. WWP is the link between government, industry and people and is an integral part of Government-industry-NGO partnerships. WWP will continue to work towards ensuring that water resources are protected and developed sustainably, and that adequate and good quality water is accessible to all.
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