ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT SPATIOTEMPORAL VARIATIONS OF TOTAL SUSPENDED SOLID ON THE SURFACE WATERS OF KUALA PERLIS, PERLIS

Abstract

Rivers are vital water sources for human existence and environmental health. Due to freshwater scarcity, monitoring river water quality is crucial, especially concerningtotal suspended solids (TSS), which pose potential risks to health and the environment. Despite this importance, there is a lack of assessment of spatiotemporal TSS variation in Malaysia, particularly in Sungai Kuala Perlis. This study aims to evaluate spatial-temporal TSS variations in the surface water of Kuala Perlis, Perlis. Sampling points were GPS recorded in December 2021. Five sites were established for morning, afternoon, and evening sampling. Water samples were collected and subjected to gravimetric analysis using the American Public Health Assessment (APHA) standard. ANOVA (p=0.05) in SPSS version 26 found TSS ranges of 110.67 mg/L -177.67 mg/L, 27.67 mg/L – 132 mg/L, and 78 mg/L – 304.67 mg/L for morning, afternoon, and evening, respectively. Surprisingly, no significant mean TSS differences were found for temporal (p>0.05) or spatial (p>0.05) variations. Factors influencing TSS variation such as water flow, salinity, and anthropogenic activities, were discussed. These findings inform researchers, governments, and NGOs for future planning in Kuala Perlis, promoting river health and eco-friendly management