National water agency PUB has been conferred a Presidential Award by the International Desalination Association (IDA) to honour its commitment to the sustainability of water and desalination.

The award also recognises the relationship PUB has with the association, the water agency said in a statement on Tuesday. The two agencies have collaborated on several events and initiatives, including the organising the IDA World Congress in Singapore in 2005 and the hosting of IDA's Fellowship Award.

PUB chief executive Chew Men Leong received the award from Dr Corrado Sommariva, president of the IDA on Monday, at a gala dinner held in Tianjin, China. Dr Corrado said PUB is internationally recognised as a pioneer in water initiatives.

"PUB has always promoted sustainability, environmental stewardship and innovation in its programs in Singapore as well as worldwide," he said. "Both our organizations share a deep commitment to promoting water management strategies that help ensure the health and well being of people and economies."