Cambodia, Australia Strengthen Water Security Cooperation as Climate Pressures Mount

Phnom Penh, October 26, 2026: Cambodia and Australia have moved to deepen 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 convening the 6th Cambodia Clean Water Conference and Trade Exhibition, drawing some 350 participants from government, the water sector, development partners, financial institutions, research institutes and technology suppliers.

Held under the theme "Today's Innovation, Tomorrow's Water Solutions," the two-day event provides a platform to share knowledge, showcase innovative water technologies, strengthen partnerships and seek practical solutions to advance water security, expand access to clean water and extend climate-resilient water services nationwide.

The conference takes place as Cambodia and the wider world face mounting water stress. Climate change is heightening risks linked to drought, flooding and shifting rainfall patterns, pressures that are rising alongside growing demand for clean water services and placing additional strain on existing infrastructure and resources.

Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Hem Vanndy said advanced technology and innovative management are no longer optional but a strategic imperative. "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," he said.

Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Derek Yip said Australia has played a significant 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 keep supporting innovative technologies and sustainable financing mechanisms that 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 sector capacity and drive the adoption of new technologies.

Leng Khiev, president of the Cambodia Water Supply Association, said private water operators play a vital role in delivering 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 features 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, and strategies for developing the next generation of leaders in Cambodia's water sector.

This marks 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 brings together 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

https://www.misti.gov.kh/pressroom/news-and-events/e6Cv3XwPif1s

Reported by The Khmer Today