Why did Google remove its Ringgit currency conversion widget?

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Google Removed Ringgit Currency Conversion Widget Due to Inaccurate Exchange Rate Display

Google temporarily removed its currency conversion widget for Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) searches following a reprimand for displaying an incorrect exchange rate between the US dollar and the Ringgit. The issue came to light on March 15, 2024, when Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) publicly corrected Google's reported rate of RM4.98 to 1 USD, stating the actual rate was RM4.70 to the dollar. This discrepancy prompted action from the Malaysian government, with the Communications Minister seeking clarification from Google.
Inaccurate Exchange Rate Prompted Official Correction

On March 15, 2024, Google displayed an exchange rate of RM4.98 for one US dollar. Bank Negara Malaysia, the nation's central bank, officially dismissed this figure, asserting that the correct exchange rate at the time was RM4.70 to the US dollar. This significant difference between the displayed and actual rates led to concerns about the reliability of the information provided.
Communications Minister Sought Clarification and Advised Caution

Following the inaccurate reporting, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil addressed the situation by reminding the public not to share incorrect information regarding currency exchange rates. He also initiated contact with Google to seek an explanation for the erroneous data. The minister's intervention highlighted the importance of accurate financial information being disseminated to the public.
Google Resolved Issue with Third-Party Data Provider

In response to the incident, Google issued an apology and stated that the problem had been resolved with the third-party provider responsible for supplying the USD to MYR exchange rate data. This indicated that the error stemmed from an external source feeding information into Google's system, rather than an internal calculation error by Google itself. The company's statement suggested a commitment to rectifying the data feed.
Widget Removal Aimed at Technical Issue Resolution

Datuk Fahmi Fadzil clarified that Google's decision to disable the currency converter widget for MYR was not a result of directives from any specific entity. Instead, he explained that Google's action was intended to address and resolve various technical issues associated with the feature. The reinstatement of the widget was contingent upon the finalisation of Google's internal processes to ensure accuracy.

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Why did Google remove its Ringgit currency conversion widget?

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