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MESSAGE BY MS GRACE FU,
MINISTER FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT AND MINISTER-IN-CHARGE OF TRADE RELATIONS
Every March, Singapore commemorates World Water Day. Water is a precious and scarce resource that enables us to lead our daily lives and supports Singapore’s economic development. This year, as we celebrate Singapore’s 60th birthday, I encourage everyone to reflect on how water has been critical in securing Singapore’s survival as an independent country.
A water stressed nation, Singapore is constrained by our limited land and availability of natural water sources. In 1965, we had only three reservoirs that received water from a small catchment comprising about 10% of our land area. Today, Singapore is served by 17 reservoirs. Our catchment has expanded six-fold to encompass more than two-thirds of our land area. We have further enhanced water security by introducing two weather-resilient National Taps – desalination and NEWater.
The evolution of our water story is a strong testament to the foresight, resilience and ingenuity of our pioneers, ensuring that water now flows through all facets of our lives. From our daily routines at home, to enjoying recreational activities along our waterways, and sustaining business operations across various key industries - our water has made every moment count, making treasured moments in our lives a reality and keeping Singapore thriving as a global economic hub.
Climate change will present a new challenge for this generation and the next. Singapore will be subjected to unpredictable weather such as prolonged and more frequent dry spells, posing a risk to our water supply. We must respond with the same fortitude and determination as our pioneers to write the next chapter of Singapore’s Water Story.
Water conservation will remain a collective effort – requiring everyone to use water responsibly. Every action makes a difference – from households adopting water-saving habits, to industries adopting technologies for water reuse. Each contribution, no matter how small, plays a vital role in our water security.
Let’s not take our water for granted. Make every drop count, so that our water will make every moment count for future generations!
Grace Fu
Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-Charge of Trade Relations
