Completion of Water Purification Facilities in Cambodia's Methulei Village by Japan JC
Japan's Junior Chamber International (Japan JC) recently celebrated the opening of a new water purification facility in Methulei Village, Cambodia, as part of its international cooperation project, "SMILE by WATER." This initiative aims to provide access to safe and clean water in developing countries, addressing one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). On May 25, 2025, an opening ceremony was held, attended by over 170 local residents, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote clean water access.
Launched in 2016, the "SMILE by WATER" project aligns with the 6th SDG goal that seeks to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Japan JC focuses on areas where infrastructure is lacking, providing tailored solutions such as water filters, wells, and pipelines, especially in regions like Methulei Village, often classified as poor. The village, located on the banks of Tonle Sap Lake, suffers from a lack of water supply systems, forcing residents to rely on local vendors or, in some unfortunate cases, directly on the contaminated lake water for drinking.
The completion of the purification facility comes at a crucial time, as Tonle Sap Lake has seen deteriorating water quality due to pollution. In collaboration with the local Siem Reap Junior Chamber International (JCI), Japan JC implemented this essential project to ensure that local residents have access to clean drinking water. In addition to the purification services, the initiative also aims to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth through the development of products made from water hyacinth, an invasive plant species that has proliferated in the lake.
The opening ceremony was held at a local temple square, featuring dignitaries such as the district head of Puok, the Japanese Consulate office head in Siem Reap, community leaders, local monks, NGOs involved in the project, and members from various JCI chapters. The event began with a presentation about the project, followed by a tasting of clean water from the new facility, a demonstration of water hyacinth products, a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, and a commemorative group photo.
The community's enthusiasm was palpable as clean water flowed from the new faucets, with cheers and smiles lighting up the faces of the attendees. In a display of goodwill, Japan JC and JCI Siem Reap also distributed water bottles to 200 households in the village.
Local media covered the event, showcasing the community's positive response to the provision of safe drinking water. Japan JC remains committed to ensuring the sustainability of this initiative by establishing donation boxes throughout Siem Reap province and setting up a fund for ongoing community development. Their goal is to empower the local JCI chapter to continue promoting access to clean water and hygiene education.
This water purification facility represents not just a physical infrastructure project, but a beacon of hope for Methulei Village, signifying a step towards improved health, well-being, and economic resilience in this vulnerable community. The success of such initiatives exemplifies the impact of collaborative efforts fueled by a shared vision for a better future, as Japan JC aims to continue its support and expand its reach across other underserved regions in Cambodia and beyond, fostering empowerment through education and sustainable practices.
Launched in 2016, the "SMILE by WATER" project aligns with the 6th SDG goal that seeks to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Japan JC focuses on areas where infrastructure is lacking, providing tailored solutions such as water filters, wells, and pipelines, especially in regions like Methulei Village, often classified as poor. The village, located on the banks of Tonle Sap Lake, suffers from a lack of water supply systems, forcing residents to rely on local vendors or, in some unfortunate cases, directly on the contaminated lake water for drinking.
The completion of the purification facility comes at a crucial time, as Tonle Sap Lake has seen deteriorating water quality due to pollution. In collaboration with the local Siem Reap Junior Chamber International (JCI), Japan JC implemented this essential project to ensure that local residents have access to clean drinking water. In addition to the purification services, the initiative also aims to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth through the development of products made from water hyacinth, an invasive plant species that has proliferated in the lake.
The opening ceremony was held at a local temple square, featuring dignitaries such as the district head of Puok, the Japanese Consulate office head in Siem Reap, community leaders, local monks, NGOs involved in the project, and members from various JCI chapters. The event began with a presentation about the project, followed by a tasting of clean water from the new facility, a demonstration of water hyacinth products, a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, and a commemorative group photo.
The community's enthusiasm was palpable as clean water flowed from the new faucets, with cheers and smiles lighting up the faces of the attendees. In a display of goodwill, Japan JC and JCI Siem Reap also distributed water bottles to 200 households in the village.
Local media covered the event, showcasing the community's positive response to the provision of safe drinking water. Japan JC remains committed to ensuring the sustainability of this initiative by establishing donation boxes throughout Siem Reap province and setting up a fund for ongoing community development. Their goal is to empower the local JCI chapter to continue promoting access to clean water and hygiene education.
This water purification facility represents not just a physical infrastructure project, but a beacon of hope for Methulei Village, signifying a step towards improved health, well-being, and economic resilience in this vulnerable community. The success of such initiatives exemplifies the impact of collaborative efforts fueled by a shared vision for a better future, as Japan JC aims to continue its support and expand its reach across other underserved regions in Cambodia and beyond, fostering empowerment through education and sustainable practices.
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