This event was attended by both the Dean and Assistant Professor of FTSL ITB Ir. Edwan Kardena, Ph.D. and Rofiq Iqbal, ST., M.Eng., Ph.D. The laboratory will be located at Fatmawati Road, Jakarta. With the aspiration of a home appliance company that offers the best living solutions for the people, PT Coway intends to recruit researchers from ITB FTSL to help in the pre-installment of the water purifier unit for safer drinking water. Drinking water is a basic need; therefore, the sixth sustainable development goal explains the importance of clean water and sanitation.

As an institution of research and education, ITB is committed to supporting knowledge, communities, and the nation’s development in all aspects. "In terms of drinking water and sanitation, our researchers have conducted various water treatment studies," he added.

Currently, the provision of drinking water is still a big challenge in Indonesia. Most households utilize groundwater, of which some contain high levels of iron. Thus, Prof. Wenten welcomed the partnership between ITB and PT Coway International Indonesia to develop a water map for various analyses of raw water. He also hopes that the water map can show complete information regarding the various types of raw water and appropriate water treatment.

"The establishment of this water quality laboratory is our effort in delivering clean drinking water for customers,” Inwha stated. “As a company that sells water purification products, maintaining water purity is our utmost priority, and our mission is to innovate and encourage a healthy, comfortable environment."

One of the activities that will be conducted in the laboratory is compiling the water map from water quality data across Indonesia into treatability information. With this map, PT Coway promised to provide clean and safe water that can be used by the people of Indonesia.

Aside from the laboratory, the agreement delves into the academic field, namely distributing Coway scholarships to ITB FTSL students in hopes of supporting their studies. Graduates with a master’s degree can also be recommended to work and conduct research at the newly established laboratory.

The existence of the water quality laboratory is the embodiment of Coway's efforts in developing and maintaining consumer trust. After its official operation, the laboratory will become one of Coway Indonesia’s services for problems concerning people's water supply. Moreover, the laboratory will examine the customer's water sample to deduce whether the water is safe for drinking.

Ir. Edwan expressed his appreciation and support for the collaboration. "With the laboratory’s construction, our researchers can earn the opportunity to increase the awareness of drinking water quality to the public."

Rofiq, who was elected as the consultant for PT Coway International Indonesia, noted that the laboratory will be a part of the corporation's responsibility in ensuring the contents and distribution of their products to the market in a scientific manner.

Reporter: Adi Permana
Translator: Ruth Nathania (Environmental Engineering, 2019)