PARIS, FRANCE, 15 June 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) proudly marked a major milestone in global water science with three (3) prestigious recognitions at the 50th anniversary of the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) and the 60th anniversary of UNESCO Water Sciences, held at UNESCO headquarters on 11–13 June, in Paris.

The celebration, a gathering of international leaders in hydrology and environmental sustainability, witnessed USM being lauded for its contributions to sustainable water management through its River Engineering and Urban Drainage Research Centre (REDAC).

The university received three distinct honours, further cementing its reputation as a global hub for water-related research, education, and innovation.

1.  Commemorative Recognition of the UNESCO Chair in Ecohydraulics

USM was presented with a commemorative plaque celebrating the impact of its contribution as the UNESCO Chair on Ecohydraulics for Sustainable Water Infrastructures for SDG 6 in Asia and the Pacific Region.

The appointment of the UNESCO Chair has been extended through the 2025–2028 term, recognising REDAC’s continued efforts in supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by championing water security, education, and community outreach.

This recognition further cements REDAC’s role as a global hub for water-related innovation and policy development.

2.  Recognition of the UNESCO Ecohydrology Demonstration Site at the USM Engineering Campus

The university’s Engineering Campus has officially been designated as a UNESCO Ecohydrology Demonstration Site.

This status recognises the successful integration of ecohydrology principles and nature-based solutions at USM.

The initiative has enhanced water quality, supported biodiversity, and strengthened ecosystem resilience, offering a replicable model for regions worldwide.

USM acknowledged the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia (DID) and the Humid Tropics Centre, Kuala Lumpur (HTC-KL) for their invaluable support in this achievement.

The Bio-ecological Drainage System (BIOECODS) in the USM Engineering Campus has put forward the sustainable concept of urban drainage design and become a national pilot and show piece project in promoting Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in Malaysia.

The system is fully complied with the Urban Stormwater Management Manual for Malaysia (MSMA) requirements which focus on the control of both the quantity and quality of urban runoff.

3. Recognition of the UNESCO-IAHR Label for Water Training and Education

Highlighting its academic excellence, USM has received the UNESCO–IAHR label for two of its graduate programmes: Doctor of Philosophy (River and Urban Drainage Management) and Master of Science (River and Urban Drainage Management).

This label underscores the university’s commitment to cultivating highly skilled professionals equipped to tackle today’s most pressing water challenges.

REDAC offers a graduate programme encompassing several areas of river management at doctoral level.

These areas are river management, urban drainage management, hydro informatics and environmental hydraulics management. Research thrust areas include River Management, Urban Drainage Management, Hydroinformatics and Environmental Hydraulics Management.

This programme is open to all qualified students of USM or other local or international universities who wish to pursue graduate studies through research.

Continued Global Commitment

REDAC Director, Dr. Chang Chun Kiat led the USM delegation at the UNESCO celebration in Paris, marking not only the recognition of past accomplishments but also a renewed commitment to global water resilience and capacity building.

REDAC’s long-standing collaborative work with UNESCO continues to influence water-related policies and training across Southeast Asia.

These recognitions not only elevate USM’s global standing but also reaffirm the university’s mission to promote sustainable water management through research, education, and innovation for generations to come.

Source: REDAC USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photos: REDAC USM