Kuala Lumpur, 14 May 2009 – Google Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) launched Google Maps Malaysia (http://maps.google.com.my) today, a new local search platform that enables Malaysian users and business developers to find and provide local geographic information on their PCs or mobile phones.
The Malaysian version of Google Maps will include information on roads, addresses and hundreds of thousands of businesses all over the country to provide users with a comprehensive, fast and easy-to-use source of local information, such as online maps, satellite imagery, driving directions, addresses and businesses listings.
“The launch of Google Maps Malaysia is an exciting step forward in helping Malaysian users to find the local geographic information they need in their daily lives quickly and easily, be it at home, work or on-the-go,” said Andrew McGlinchey, Product Manager of Google Southeast Asia.
The local geographic search, information and tools found on Google Maps Malaysia, plus third-party websites using the free Google Maps API, integrate seamlessly into Malaysian users’ daily lives.
Local organisations, such as VirtualMalaysia.com have contributed content and leveraged the technology so that users can search for local businesses and points of interest, check out what events or movies are going on nearby, advise visiting friends and tourists on local attractions, research the locations of properties to buy or rent, and even locate dining, shopping, nightlife options.
“Google Maps enables local users, businesses and developers to contribute and share their information about Malaysia, making it the most content-rich and relevant online map of the country for all Malaysians,” said Derek Callow, Head of Marketing of Google Southeast Asia.
“We are honoured that VirtualMalaysia.com, an authority on Malaysian travel, is working with Google as we move a step closer to achieving our vision to serve as the premiere gateway for Malaysian travel and tourism industry,” said Vincent Kok, COO of VirtualMalaysia.com Sdn Bhd.
“Websites visitors from all over the world will now get a better virtual tour of Malaysia as a travel destination, while Malaysians can easily find many wonderful places to visit across their own country by using this tool.”
Destination and places of interest are categorised by state and represented with a different icon on the Maplet.
Users can search any Malaysian travel destination - landmarks, shopping centres, parks, etc - with no sweat involved. Virtual Malaysia will be adding more cool helpful features to the maplet in the near future. Keep your eyes peeled on this space.
