AbstractSurface water is extremely susceptible to pollution stemming from human activities, such as the expansion of urban and suburban areas, industries, cities, and agriculture. In fact, sources of surface water have become the most common discharge sites for wastewater, which may contain microorganisms, pharmaceutical waste, heavy metals, and harmful pollutants. As a reference standard for clean water, the water quality standards and index of Malaysia were used. In comparison with conventional wastewater treatment methods, new nanomaterial-based methods for water filtration and purification are drawing attention as more efficient methods for water pollution detection and treatment. This prompts the use of nanotechnology applications to control surface water pollution and quality, as surface water is the main source of water consumption for humans, animals, and plants. This paper reviewed the application of nanotechnology for the detection and treatment of surface water pollution to ensure t.....