Microbiological and Physicochemical Assessment of Untreated Borehole Water in Residential Areas of Kubang Kerian, Kelantan.

Background: Due to concerns regarding the quality of municipal water in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, many residents rely on borehole water, which is often untreated and potentially unsafe. In this study, we assess the microbiological and physicochemical quality of borehole water from household outdoor sources and examine potential risk factors in this regard, including borehole depth and the proximity to sewage systems. Methods: Thirty untreated borehole water samples were collected from residential households and analysed using standard microbiological and physicochemical techniques. Heterotrophic plate count (HPC), total coliforms, faecal coliforms and Results: While 70% of samples met the Malaysian Raw Water Quality Criteria (RWQC), 30% showed microbiological contamination, including three with Conclusion: Despite meeting physicochemical standards, a notable proportion of the borehole samples were microbiologically unsafe. These findings underscore the need for improved borehole construction practices, routine monitoring and public education to reduce waterborne health risks.