Duong Hiep Hung, chairman of the Nhon Chau Commune People's Committee, said on June 22 that residents were delighted to see the desalination system arrive on the island.
According to Hung, once fully operational, the system will be capable of producing around 24 cubic metres of fresh water per day, equivalent to one cubic metre per hour. During the initial phase, output is expected to reach 8-10 cubic metres a day.
The project was approved by the Gia Lai authorities as part of efforts to gradually address freshwater shortages on the island.
Hung said access to fresh water had long been a major concern for local residents. During the dry season, households often have to ration their water use or rely on supplies transported from the mainland.
The arrival of the desalination system has therefore generated high expectations among islanders, who hope it will provide a more stable and sustainable source of fresh water.
Once operational, the project is expected not only to supply safe and reliable water for daily use but also to support tourism and service development, improve climate resilience and strengthen water security on the island.
Nhon Chau, located about 24 kilometres off the coast, is Gia Lai Province's only island commune. It is home to more than 600 households and over 2,300 residents.
Around 65 per cent of households earn their living from fishing and aquaculture, while the remainder are engaged in small businesses and tourism-related services.
In recent years, the island has sought to develop its marine economy in a more sustainable manner by balancing resource exploitation with conservation. Local authorities have also stepped up efforts to promote tourism and attract visitors seeking island experiences.