Syarikat Air Terengganu (SATU) takes home the Water Technology Excellence Award and Water Quality Improvement Project of the Year at The Asian Water Awards 2023

The company’s solution was a mix of transformation, external collaboration, and long-term solutions.

Syarikat Air Terengganu Sdn Bhd (SATU) bagged the Water Quality Improvement Project of the Year - Malaysia and Water Technology Excellence Award (Digital Technology) at the prestigious Asian Water Awards held at The Westin Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.

Chief Executive Officer Of SATU, Ts. Abdul Karim Endut said, “We are deeply honoured to receive the recognition from the Asian Water Awards 2023, affirming our commitment to revolutionising the water industry through innovation. Not only that, the accolade is also a clear indication of our mission to consistently meet the customer’s expectation by providing efficient, effective and trusted services”.

SATU Overcome Salinity Intrusion Problem

SATU is a water operator company that operates the Losong Water Treatment Plant. The Water Treatment Plant is one of SATU’s WTPs located around 6 km from Kuala Terengganu. With the capacity to supply treated water up to 76 MLD, this water treatment plant is a valuable addition to fulfilling the growing water demands of the region. However, the plant encounters the biggest challenge stemming from salinity intrusion, especially during high tides, resulting in the quality of its raw water. 

The unpredictable weather pattern tends to make it worse especially during El Nino in which water intake level decreases making it susceptible to salinity intrusion. This phenomenon threatens the plant's ability to deliver safe and healthy water to consumers, necessitating urgent and effective solutions.

During high tides, saltwater infiltrates the raw water intake at Pulau Musang, exceeding permissible chloride ion concentrations of 250 ppm. The Losong WTP is not equipped to treat saline water, requiring the plant to shut down to prevent health hazards and equipment damage. 

To overcome the situation, SATU joined forces with Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), the Kenyir hydroelectric power plant operator. Their innovative collaboration involved releasing freshwater from the Kenyir Dam strategically to dilute saline water at the Pulau Musang intake during high tide occurrence. This ground-breaking approach ensured that chloride levels remained below the critical threshold, safeguarding water quality and consumer health.

A Transformative Journey for a Sustainable Future

SATU has commenced operations at the newly launched 120 MLD Bukit Berapit Water Treatment Plant to overcome the issue of saltwater intrusion. This initiative involved the implementation of a 350mm treated water pipe from the primary pipeline, guaranteeing a steady provision of safe water and effectively addressing the repercussions of saltwater intrusion.

Simultaneously, SATU has initiated a transformative undertaking. Among these efforts is the adoption of an Asset Management System (AMS), which has streamlined its operations and revolutionized its approach to managing assets. SATU encountered challenges such as human errors in data logging and restricted data visibility, impacting operational efficiency and business performance. The implementation of the AMS facilitated methodical and effective preventive and corrective maintenance, accessible through a user-friendly mobile application. This advancement not only enhanced operational efficiency but also provided vital insights during budget preparation, strengthening financial control and management oversight.

By embracing digital technology through the development of the AMS, SATU has demonstrated its responsible management of resources. This efficiency-driven approach aligns seamlessly with the SATU’s slogan of "care for life and beyond". The investments in innovative solutions today ensure the sustainability of water services for future generations.

The accolade received at the Asian Water Awards serves as a testament to the transformative impact of SATU's initiatives, signifying a significant leap forward and setting a benchmark in water quality management.

SATU's steadfast dedication to ensuring a safe and high-quality water supply, even in the face of challenges like saltwater intrusion, sets an inspiring example of commitment to the welfare of the community. Through innovation and collaboration, SATU has earned well-deserved recognition in the water industry, establishing the standard for excellence in water management.

The Asian Water Awards is presented by Asian Power Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2024 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's revolutionary innovations and initiatives in the water industry in Asia, please contact Danica Avila at [email protected].