Google Earth: A Security Threat to Malaysia?

Abstract
When Google Earth was first introduced in 2005 as free mapping software to the masses, it was viewed as an important tool for the general public to appreciate what satellite and aerial images can offer to spruce up their daily routine. But since its debut, Google Earth has received unexpected attention and criticism, not from the general public but from government officials that deal with mapping and security. India, Thailand, South Korea and Australia have been particularly outspoken and point out that Google Earth could severely compromise their nation's security. In the aftermath of the Mumbai atrocity, there have been calls to ban Google Earth since it was alleged that the terrorists used the sophisticated map technology to secure accurate target and navigational coordinates. Malaysia too will soon be joining the bandwagon voicing out its concern on Google Earth security threat. Not only that, there has been news circulating among the mapping communities in Malaysia that any satellite images with resolution of 5 meters or better will be made restricted. Is Malaysia's concern about Google Earth and restricting public access to satellite images is a case of misplaced judgment? Or is it wrong professional advice was given to the policy makers? The paper will discuss these pertinent issues related to the threat imposed by Google Earth.