Subsequently, in the Cabinet Meeting on the 14^th April 1993, approved the establishment of NAHRIM with the main objective as follows:

     i) To build a pool of experts and provide research service that need in planning, designing, building and implementing research related to development of water resources in particular and environment in general; and

     ii) To set up as a National Focal Point that coordinate research on hydraulic engineering in Malaysia.

NAHRIM started its operation in September 1995 and move ahead to become an excellent center in hydraulic engineering research and supporting service to meet the demand from both public and private sector in the water related development.

In line with its establishment objectives as indicated above and NAHRIM's function as also written in the Ministerial Function Act 1969 (Ministers of the Federal Government (No.2) Order 2008) are as follows:

     i) Conducts basic and applied research in hydraulic engineering, coastal engineering , water resources and water quality for public and private sector;

     ii) Experts/specialised consultancy services to public and private sectors;

     iii) Co-operate with local universities and institute in hydraulic engineering research;

     iv) Function as Government advisor on matters relating to hydraulics; and

     v) To act as the National centre in hydraulic engineering research and become the coordinator of all research in the country.