Largest recycled water supply scheme of its kind in Malaysia to date
Asia Pacific & Japan (APJ) hyperscale data centre specialist, AirTrunk today announced a trailblazing partnership with Johor Special Water (JSW) to jointly develop a recycled water supply to AirTrunk’s Johor data centre campuses, JHB1 and JHB2. The recycled water supply scheme is the largest of its kind in Malaysia to date and reinforces AirTrunk’s commitment to the sustainable use of resources and circularity.
The initiative will see recycled water locally produced from unused wastewater and will involve significant investment in the development of treatment and supply infrastructure. The recycled water will be used to meet the operational needs of AirTrunk’s data centres in Johor conserving vital water resources for local communities.
Access to this alternative water supply complements the energy-efficient design of AirTrunk’s campuses including the innovative liquid cooling system implemented at JHB1 since 2024. The approach enhances operational efficiency while also promoting the sustainable management of Johor’s water resources.
Importantly, the water initiative addresses calls from the Malaysian and Johor State governments for alternative water solutions to alleviate pressure on water supplies. AirTrunk is collaborating with JSW, and several local companies to deliver the project. JSW is a wholly owned entity of the Johor State Government through Permodalan Darul Ta’zim (PDT).
AirTrunk Country Head, Malaysia Pei Jet Lim, said: “This initiative with Johor Special Water exemplifies AirTrunk’s dedication to sustainable operations. By integrating recycled water into our data centre operations, we are conserving potable water resources, reinforcing our commitment to the environment and the local Johor community. AirTrunk is also working with local contractors to develop this initiative, in alignment with our approach to prioritise local employment and sourcing.”
AirTrunk Founder & Chief Executive Officer Robin Khuda, said: “We recognise that water is a precious resource, and its sustainable management is crucial as Malaysia cements its position as a rising digital hub. We’re developing innovative solutions to ensure we use water as productively as possible. This initiative complements the other sustainability programs we have put in place including renewable energy to support the energy transition and social impact initiatives for the long-term benefit of the community.”
Chief Minister of Johor YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi said: “We welcome AirTrunk’s innovative approach to sustainable water management in Johor. This initiative addresses environmental concerns and also brings significant economic benefits to the state. It is a testament to the positive impact that public-private partnerships can have on our community.”
Spokesperson, Johor Special Water added: “Collaborating with AirTrunk on this recycled water initiative is a significant milestone for JSW. It reflects our shared vision for sustainable water solutions and demonstrates how innovative thinking can lead to tangible benefits for both industry and the community. At the same time, we highly appreciate IWK’s role in providing treated effluent sources, which has been instrumental in completing this collaboration.”