If you happen to go to maps.google.com.my and the 'traffic' option on the map, you would find a nifty new feature: traffic flow and transit (public transport) information.
There are 3 major enhancements : the traffic and transit layers and a Bahasa Malaysia interface. All of these are available on the desktop and mobile versions of Google Maps.
According to Google country manager, Sajith Sivanandan, Google has found that there is enough critical mass to turn on the traffic flow information feature.
How does it work? Anonymous information is collected from Android devices which have Google maps turned on or running in the backgroud. The realtime information goes to the Google servers and is calculated to determine how fast is the traffic flow on a particular route. A good flowing traffic will appear green, yellow for slow and red for heavy traffic. Grey will mean that there isn't enough data.This can be useful when deciding which route to take before you step into your car. For now however, the traffic information is only for the Klang Valley.
For transit, in areas with data available, whenever a user selects directions from point A to B (for example), there is a new third option, in addition to the familiar walking and driving directions. Google Maps users can now view step by step public transportation information which includes buses, LRT, Monorail and Komuter travel options. The bus stops and train stations are also included. By clicking on the bus or Komuter icon you can even get further information, such as service times, direction and stop names.
Available in Bahasa Malaysia, it gives local speakers better accessibility and the option of using and navigating with Google Maps using the language they are more comfortable with.
"Malaysians commute a lot and these enhancements add a new level of usability to Google Maps for Malaysians, making it easier to look up informtaion, move around the country and get from point A to B quickly and with minimum hassle and fuss. The new enhancements also go hand in hand with Google's mission to organise the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful while enhancing, improving and localising our products and services," says Sajith Sivanandan.
