Exploring the potentials of transforming sewage waste into a source of renewable energy in line with the circular economy model, IWK and EMB signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today; for the production of ethanol, and biogas containing butane components that will benefit downstream industries such as petrochemicals, as well as become a secondary source in the production of their products.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended and witnessed by the Minister of Environment and Water, Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man; Deputy Minister of Environment and Water, Yang Berhormat Dato’ Mansor Haji Othman; and Deputy Secretary General (Water and Sewerage), Ministry of Environment and Water, Dr Ching Thoo a/l Kim.
Since June 2022, IWK and EMB Business have conducted a pilot study project located at the Sewage Treatment Plant (“LRK”) in Cyberjaya, Selangor.
According to IWK Chief Executive Officer, Narendran Maniam, wastewater may be seen as a waste, but IWK is always trying to take advantage of green technology and innovation processes to convert the waste into a new cyclical economic resource.
IWK’s records reveal that approximately 2.97 billion cubic meters of sewage waste is treated and released into the river per year, while the final destination for the resulting sludge is disposed of in a landfill.
“Since 2015, IWK has pioneered various green technology initiatives that work towards the reuse of waste water bi-products as a new source of water and energy. Through the Supplemental Agreement to the Sewerage Service Concession Agreement granted by the Government to IWK, the company is allowed to carry out important non-tariff business potentials such as the production of reclaimed water from treated effluent as well as the production of renewable energy and fertilizer for non-crops from biosolids,” explained Narendran.
Managing Director of EMB Business, Nur Idatun Nissa Mohamad Noor, said IWK and EMB Business, working in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), have produced an alcoholic liquid at room temperatures which is materialised directly from wastewater.
“This has changed existing chemical facts, especially now that the process of producing butane gas is no longer only through a petroleum refinery. It certainly opens the eyes of industry players to the production of renewable energy like this,” said Nur Idatun Nissa.
Through the partnership between IWK and EMB Business’, both companies intend to increase the commercial production of ethanol and bio-gas, encouraging industry players to work together towards the success of the country’s circular economy.
About IWK
Indah Water Konsortium, a company owned by Minister of Finance Incorporated, is Malaysia’s national sewerage company which has been entrusted with the tasks of developing and maintaining a modern and efficient sewerage system for all Malaysians.
In 1994, the Federal Government awarded the company the concession for nationwide sewerage service which prior to that, was under the responsibility of local authorities.
Indah Water is now well-positioned to undertake the vital task of ensuring that Malaysians today and in the future will be able to enjoy a clean and healthy environment through a proper and well-maintained sewerage system.
Source
IWK, press release, 2022-08-08.
Supplier
EMB Business (EMB) Sdn Bhd
Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd
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