Another major concern with drinking tap water directly in Malaysia is the possibility of chemical contamination. Even though municipal water treatment plants use chlorine and other disinfectants to eliminate harmful microorganisms, these chemicals can remain in the water as disinfection by-products, such as trihalomethanes, which have been linked to long-term health risks when consumed in excess. In addition, Malaysia has areas where industrial activities, mining, and agricultural runoff contribute pollutants like pesticides, fertilizers, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into local water sources. Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium can also leach into the water supply through corroded plumbing systems or outdated infrastructure. These substances are particularly harmful because they accumulate in the body over time and may lead to chronic health issues, including kidney damage, neurological disorders, and even cancer. Unfortunately, boiling water does not eliminate these contaminants. In fact, when water is boiled, some of the liquid evaporates, which can concentrate the level of harmful chemicals and heavy metals remaining in the pot. This makes boiling an incomplete safeguard for water safety. Filtration systems, particularly those equipped with activated carbon filters, multi-stage purification processes, or reverse osmosis membranes, are far more effective in addressing this issue. These technologies are capable of reducing chlorine residues, removing heavy metals, and filtering out a wide spectrum of chemical pollutants, ensuring that the water is safe for long-term consumption. In Malaysia, where environmental pollution and aging infrastructure remain pressing concerns, investing in a good water filter provides a necessary layer of protection against unseen chemical hazards.
