The government has asked Google for clarification regarding the inaccurate exchange rate data showing the ringgit against the US dollar at RM4.98, as displayed on the search engine, due to previous instances of similar inaccuracies.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil expressed concern about the misleading information circulating on social media, which has confused Malaysians, emphasising that Google serves as a crucial reference for the populace, according to Bernama.
Fahmi stressed that such discrepancies should not occur, especially as the government endeavours to enhance economic growth and investor confidence.
Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) refuted the inaccurate ringgit exchange rate data circulating on social media, clarifying that Google had erroneously published a USD/RM exchange rate on 15 March.
The central bank provided the correct exchange rates for the day and highlighted that this was the second time Google had disseminated inaccurate data this year.
Fahmi mentioned that BNM had issued a warning letter to Google following the first instance of misreporting on 6 February 2024.
As of this writing, Google appears to have resolved the discrepancy with the USD/RM exchange rate to align with that of BNM, which was at RM4.7045 as of 15 March.
