In today’s fast-changing world, conversations about food often circle around taste, convenience or trends. But behind every plate of rice or serving of vegetables lies a much larger story—the story of water, land and the intricate systems that sustain agriculture.
This September, Kuala Lumpur will take centre stage in that story, as Malaysia welcomes global experts to discuss one of the most vital questions of our time: the future of irrigation.
The 4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4) and the 76th International Executive Council (IEC) Meeting of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) will run from Sept 7 to Sept 13 at the World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur.
It is expected to draw 500 participants from across 30 countries, making it one of the most significant international gatherings on irrigation, drainage and food security in recent years.
“This is significant as, nearly 20 years after Malaysia hosted the 3rd AsRC and 57th IEC Meeting, the country has once again been given the opportunity to organise an international-level conference.
“This provides the best opportunity for Malaysia to play a more active role globally in irrigation, drainage and food security.” Director of the Irrigation and Agriculture Drainage Division (BPSP) at the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (KPKM), Ir Yuslina Mohd Sani said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
The ICID, founded in 1950, is a professional, not-for-profit body that brings together experts in irrigation, drainage and flood management. Malaysia became a member in 1958 through the Malaysian National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (Mancid), supported by KPKM.
Yuslina explained that WIF4 serves as an open platform for the global irrigation community and development professionals to come together in search of solutions.
It addresses pressing challenges such as water resource management crises, population growth, food security and the effects of climate change on agriculture and water landscapes.
Core activities at the forum include:
- Sharing of policies, practices, innovations and the latest technologies.
- Developing multi-disciplinary proposals to address food supply crises caused by global warming.
- Building cooperation among national and international institutions.
- Advocating for stronger political commitment.
A Theme that Questions Relevance
This year’s theme is both provocative and urgent: “Is Irrigation a Sunset Industry?”
According to Yuslina, this theme highlights the sustainability and relevance of the irrigation and agriculture sectors.
“It highlights their importance in enabling ICID member countries to achieve food security goals. The discussion will explore whether irrigation risks being sidelined, overshadowed by rapid urbanisation and modern industrial pursuits.
To counter this perception, WIF4 will highlight how automation, smart water management and soilless farming are transforming traditional irrigation practices into high-tech solutions for the future,” she added.
The sub-themes will include:
- Challenges of irrigation and drainage for food security in a changing world.
- Technology and modernisation in agriculture.
- Innovative policies and financing for future challenges.
- Nature-based solutions to strengthen ecological resilience.
What to Expect at WIF4
- The seven-day programme is packed with opportunities for dialogue, learning and collaboration. Highlights include:
- Over 100 scientific papers presented by local and international experts.
- The 3rd High-Level Advisory Group (HLAG) Meeting on Sept 8, bringing together Agriculture and Water Ministers from ICID member countries.
- More than 10 working groups engage in specialised discussions, such as Women Empowerment in Water Management (WEWM), Sustainable Coastal Environment Regeneration (SCER) and the Water-Food-Energy Nexus (WFEN).
- Technical visits showcasing Malaysia’s irrigation systems, flood management projects and research facilities.
- Tours for delegates and their families to KLCC, Melaka and Genting Highlands, promoting Malaysia as a tourism destination.
- An exhibition hall where companies can showcase innovations in agriculture, irrigation and drainage.
A Boost for Malaysia’s Tourism and Economy
Beyond knowledge-sharing, the event is expected to benefit the economy and tourism.
“We hope WIF4, the 76th IEC Meeting of ICID and the HLAG Meeting will strengthen knowledge and technology sharing in irrigation, agricultural drainage and food security, through multi-disciplinary proposals to address potential food crises caused by global warming.
“At the same time, hosting the event will enhance Malaysia’s credibility and demonstrate the country’s commitment to food security through sustainable irrigation and agricultural drainage management,” Yuslina said.
Making Participation Accessible
To encourage wider involvement, the organisers have extended a special Merdeka Madani Package of 20 per cent discount on registration fees until Aug 31. Special rates are also available:
- RM650 for young professionals under 40 and retired professionals.
- RM480 for students.
- These packages cover the entire conference, including meals and refreshments. Delegates can also enjoy promotional flight rates through Malaysia Airlines.
The question “Is Irrigation a Sunset Industry?” is not just the theme of the conference—it is a challenge to policymakers, researchers and communities to rethink agriculture’s place in an increasingly urbanised, technology-driven world.
For Malaysia, WIF4 represents more than a conference. It is a chance to showcase expertise, build international alliances and reaffirm that irrigation remains at the heart of food security.
“Malaysia will benefit from better global cooperation and gain new knowledge to keep pace with the latest global technologies,” Yuslina highlighted.