Targeted Action and Financing the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in Asia 2025

Invest in prevention, WASH and clean water access In 2019, nearly 80% of South-East Asia’s population still relied on groundwater, often dirty and unsafe, as their main source of drinking water.126 While most countries have developed and periodically revise their AMR national action plans, the crucial role of WASH and wastewater management is often inadequately addressed. Climate hazards make the situation worse, as floods and storms disrupt access to clean water and sanitation, especially in LMICs with vulnerable infrastructure. By integrating science-based WASH, wastewater management and clean water access into national action plans, LMICs can ensure that investments align with best practice and local needs.127 CASE STUDY 6 Wateroam Wateroam is a Singapore-based water innovation enterprise offering low-cost, scalable water filtration to make clean water accessible for all. The flagship product uses ultrafiltration membrane technology, capable of filtering out viruses and parasites from contaminated sources to produce safe drinking water for up to 100 people, and has a lifespan of two years. To date, Wateroam has provided clean water to more than 350,000 people in 40+ countries, including Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal and the Philippines. The company also partners with NGOs, private corporations, local authorities and “local champions” to deliver its filters to communities in need. Specially designed for communities in disaster-hit and rural developing areas, Wateroam’s products are portable, easy to maintain and operate without electricity. The company conducts community profiling and mapping to ensure its systems are deployed in accessible locations taking into account geographical proximity to everyday communal spaces and walking time to water sources. To maximize impact, the company provides technical training through local workshops and demonstrations to educate communities on filter usage and maintenance. Wateroam sets up communication channels on messaging platforms used by the community and establishes lasting relationships with local leaders to ensure long-term sustainability. The company also invests in public education campaigns in target communities to promote behavioural change with regard to health and sanitation practices. Source: See endnote.128 Targeted Action and Financing the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in Asia 29