On World Water Day today, it is appropriate to reflect on the future of Singapore’s water. The Singapore Government announced recently that the price of water will be increased in two stages. Singapore last increased its water price in 2000, and thus, for 17 years, this price has remained constant. Electricity rates are significantly higher than those for water; they are adjusted regularly. Thus, whenever electricity rates are modified, there is seldom a ripple and it is not big news. However, when the water price is increased after 17 years and heftily so, it became a big news item. Most Singaporeans in contrast do not know how much they pay for water, let alone that they do not pay for all of their water-related services themselves, as some are borne by the state. Given the strategic importance of water in Singapore, it is essential to engage the population in the formulation of future policies through a robust communication strategy with all the facts, figures and implications of possible decisions.... Continue Reading