YBhg. Dato' Seri Ir. Jaseni Maidinsa

Water is the essence of life, the silent force behind economic growth, and the foundation of sustainable development. In Malaysia, Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) has emerged as the custodian of water assets, ensuring that water flows efficiently, equitably, and sustainably. Established in 2006 under the Water Services Industry Act, PAAB leads the restructuring of Malaysia’s water sector towards full-cost recovery and sustainability of the Water Services Industry.

At the heart of this transformation is Dato’ Seri Ir. Jaseni Maidinsa, a man whose dedication to water management spans nearly four decades. His journey began humbly in the rural water development sector at JKR in 1985. Over 37 years, he cemented his reputation as a thought leader, publishing numerous papers and advocating for policies that protect water catchments—the first and most critical step in ensuring a sustainable water supply. 

In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the engineering profession and his enduring commitment to its advancement, Dato’ Seri Ir. Jaseni was honored with the prestigious IEM Honorary Fellow by the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM), solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the industry’s development.

Beyond technical expertise, Dato’ Seri Ir. Jaseni’s leadership is about empowering teams, fostering collaboration, and making bold, calculated decisions. He doesn’t just lead from the front—he builds a team that thrives under pressure, united by a common goal: to ensure that every drop of water reaches the people who need it most.

A key milestone in PAAB’s journey was the introduction of the 45-year repayment model, a revolutionary financing strategy that allows water operators to repay infrastructure investments over an extended period. This forward-thinking approach prevents sharp tariff hikes, ensuring that Malaysians continue to enjoy some of the most affordable water rates in the region. This initiative underscores PAAB’s dual commitment to financial viability and public welfare, reinforcing the idea that access to clean water is not just a service—it is a right.

To achieve these objectives, PAAB has focused its financial and technical resources on assisting the water operators to comply with the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) KPIs on Treated Water Reserve Margins (minimum 15%) and Non-Revenue Water (25% by 2030). This will ensure water conservation and reduce operational costs for long-term industry sustainability. 

In ensuring the future water supply security, PAAB is exploring the Water Treatment Plant Residue Management, Rainwater Harvesting, Recycling Industrial Water, and Desalination technologies. This is needed to keep Malaysia at the forefront of innovative water supply management.

PAAB is not just managing assets—it is securing Malaysia’s sovereignty over its most precious lifeline. Water is wealth, and Malaysia’s water industry is not just preserving its liquid gold—it is fortifying, innovating, and future-proofing its destiny.