Kuala Lampur, Nov. 20 -- Most Malaysians assume that treated water and everyday products are safe. But an emerging group of pollutants known as PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl dan Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), or "forever chemicals," is raising new questions about water safety, long-term health, and even possible links to cancer.

These chemicals, used widely in non-stick cookware, fast-food packaging, cosmetics, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam, and electronics manufacturing, do not break down easily. They became popular because PFAS offer properties that manufacturers find extremely useful such as resistance to heat, oil, stains, and water, making products more durable, convenient, and long-lasting. But, once they enter the environment, they ...