Cambodia, Australia Partner to Boost Clean Water Security Amid Growing Climate Risks

Phnom Penh, October 26, 2026: Cambodia and Australia have stepped up cooperation on clean water security, with the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), the Cambodia Water Supply Association and the Australian Embassy in Cambodia jointly organising the 6th Cambodia Clean Water Conference and Trade Exhibition, bringing together about 350 participants from government, the water sector, development partners, financial institutions, research institutes and technology suppliers.

The two-day event, held under the theme "Today's Innovation, Tomorrow's Water Solutions," aims to provide a platform for sharing knowledge, showcasing innovative water technologies, strengthening partnerships and finding practical solutions to promote water security, expand access to clean water and extend climate-resilient water services across the country.

The conference comes as Cambodia and the world face growing water stress. Climate change is increasing risks related to drought, flooding and changing rainfall patterns, pressures that are mounting alongside rising demand for clean water services and placing additional strain on existing infrastructure and resources.


Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Hem Vanndy said that as Cambodia faces increasing pressure from climate change, particularly droughts and floods, the use of modern technology and innovative management is no longer an option but a strategic duty to enhance operational efficiency, manage risk and ensure the supply of quality, safe, sustainable and affordable clean water.

Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Derek Yip said Australia has played an important role in working with Cambodia on remarkable progress in expanding access to clean water. Through more than a decade of partnership in the water sector, Australia has helped 1.3 million Cambodians gain access to piped clean water, he said, adding that as climate pressures and water demand continue to rise, Australia will continue to support innovative technologies and sustainable financing mechanisms that can help water operators deliver essential services to people across the country.

Australian support has helped private operators extend piped clean water supply to rural and remote areas and is continuing to strengthen the sector's capacity and promote the adoption of new technologies.

Leng Khiev, president of the Cambodia Water Supply Association, said private water operators play a vital role in providing clean water services to communities across Cambodia. Beyond sharing experience, he said the conference offers an important opportunity for private operators to showcase, study and adopt new technologies, strengthen partnerships and identify practical solutions that can help expand reliable and affordable clean water services nationwide.

The conference includes technical presentations and discussions on smart water technology, clean energy and zero-emission water supply services, climate resilience and water security, sustainable water service management and financing, as well as strategies for developing the next generation of leaders in Cambodia's water sector.

This is the first time the conference has included a business matching forum, allowing water operators, technology suppliers, financial institutions, support service providers and development partners to seek partnerships, investment opportunities and business solutions to further strengthen the water sector.

The clean water exhibition also showcases products, services and innovative technologies from domestic and international institutions working on water management, operational efficiency and service delivery.

Source: Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation


Reported by The Khmer Daily Network