Evolution and Sustainability of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) Development in Geospatial Applications

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Abstract This article explores the evolution and sustainability of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) development in the realm of geospatial applications. Drawing from the seminal work of Arnulf Christl published in 2008 in “Open Source Approaches in Spatial Data Handling,” this paper provides an updated perspective on the state of FOSS development in the geospatial domain. It delves into the changing nature of FOSS development, the challenges of funding, the role of transparency, and the benefits of collaborative, open-source approaches. Throughout, it references and builds upon the insights offered by Christl while providing contemporary examples and […]

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The Enigmatic 1876 Perak Map

In 1876, a Malay map of Perak, based on W.E. Maxwell’s notes and sourced from MS 46943 at the Royal Asiatic Society in London, was published in Barbara Andaya’s work, “Perak: The Abode of Grace: A Study of an Eighteenth Century Malay State” (1979). In this map, some words, including place names and court noble titles, have been transliterated by Andaya. The Arabic numerals enclosed in circles serve as the author’s annotations, aiding in the transliteration and translation of Jawi text into Romanized Malay and English. This map may strike readers as unusual, as it lacks common features found in

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A Light-hearted Quest to Locate the Elusive Parking Spot of a Blue Beetle Car

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Introduction Imagine embarking on a quirky adventure, where you’re on a mission to locate a peculiar parking spot – the place where a Blue Beetle car is casually chilling near a highway. Our goal? To uncover the coordinates of this enigmatic spot. But fret not, this quest is not to be taken too seriously. We’re about to explore how a bit of math and a touch of imagination can lead us to the destination of a classic car adventure. Setting the Stage In the charming world of automotive enthusiasts, the Blue Beetle car is no stranger. Renowned

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Ants, Books, and World Domination

In a shocking turn of events, the most unsuspecting threat to humanity has emerged right under our noses, or should we say, under our books. It all starts innocently enough with a sign that reads, “Please Do Not Eat in the Library. The ants will get in.” But what if those ants aren’t just looking for crumbs? What if they’re after something much bigger—knowledge, power, and world domination? Picture this: you stroll into your local library, armed with a thirst for knowledge and a bag of potato chips. You spot the sign and think, “Of course, I won’t eat here,

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Muhammad al-Idrīsī: The Forgotten Genius of Medieval Geography and Cartography

Introduction In an age long before digital navigation apps and satellite imagery revolutionized the way we perceive the world, a brilliant scholar and cartographer named Muhammad al-Idrīsī emerged as one of history’s greatest geographers. In the 12th century, a staggering 900 years ago, he unveiled a masterpiece of cartography known as the Tabula Rogeriana, an extraordinary map that showcased the world in unprecedented detail. Yet, despite his significant contributions to the field of geography, al-Idrīsī’s name remains relatively obscure today. One might wonder why this is the case, and as we delve into his life and work, the reasons become

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Assessing Your Readiness for GIS Undergraduate Studies: A Review of the GIS Interest and Qualification Quiz

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Are you considering a future in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and contemplating pursuing your undergraduate studies at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)? The GIS Interest and Qualification Quiz, hosted at https://dev.kstutm.com/ugquiz.php, offers an insightful and user-friendly way to determine your readiness and suitability for GIS undergraduate programs. Let’s take a closer look at this engaging quiz designed to guide prospective students on their academic journey. Ease of Access The GIS Interest and Qualification Quiz is readily accessible online, making it a convenient tool for anyone interested in GIS studies at UTM. The straightforward design ensures that users can

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Unlock Your GIS Potential with the GIS Postgraduate Quiz – Developed Just for You!

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Are you ready to take your passion for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to the next level? Look no further than the GIS Postgraduate Quiz, a powerful tool developed specifically to help you assess your readiness for advanced studies in GIS. Access the quiz right here: GIS Postgraduate Quiz As the developer of this innovative tool, I’m excited to share how it can set you on an exciting academic journey in the world of GIS. Here’s why the GIS Postgraduate Quiz is a game-changer: Insightful Questions: The quiz consists of ten carefully crafted questions, each designed to gauge

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Assess Your GIS Early Career Potential with the GIS Career Assessment Quiz

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Introduction Are you considering a career in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or looking to evaluate your potential in this exciting field? Look no further! The GIS Career Assessment Quiz is here to help you gauge your skills, knowledge, and experience to determine the most suitable GIS career path for you. GIS, a technology that combines geography with information technology, has a wide range of applications across industries such as environmental science, urban planning, transportation, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with some GIS experience, this quiz can provide valuable insights into your potential career prospects.

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Batasan Antara Kerja dan Rumah; Majikan dan Pekerja

Dalam dunia pekerjaan, hubungan yang baik antara majikan dan pekerja adalah kunci kejayaan sesebuah organisasi. Di dalam artikel ini, kita akan melihat situasi yang sering berlaku di tempat kerja dan di rumah yang melibatkan interaksi antara bos dan pekerja. Di Tempat Kerja Seringkali, majikan dan pekerja berinteraksi dalam situasi yang memerlukan profesionalisme dan tumpuan sepenuhnya kepada kerja. Contoh yang sering berlaku adalah apabila bos menasihatkan pekerjanya dengan berkata, “Hal di rumah jangan dibawa ke pejabat…” Pesanan ini mungkin dikeluarkan dalam usaha untuk mengekalkan fokus dan produktiviti di tempat kerja. Biasanya, pekerja akan merespons dengan hormat, “Baik boss!” Pesanan seperti ini

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The Unconventional Malay Map

By Shahabuddin Amerudin In the world of cartography, where precision and accuracy are highly valued, there exists a fascinating anomaly known as the “Malay Map.” This mysterious map, devoid of proper cartographic and geographical elements, offers a remarkable insight into the past when technology and orientation played a very different role in mapping the world. The origins of the Malay Map are shrouded in mystery, with no known cartographer to claim authorship. What sets it apart from conventional maps is its striking departure from modern cartographic standards. Unlike contemporary maps that meticulously adhere to precise geographic coordinates, the Malay Map

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Kolam Gajah, Gunung Ledang

In a world dominated by screens and hectic schedules, it becomes imperative to acknowledge the rejuvenating influence of nature. Within the Gunung Ledang forest, specifically at Kolam Gajah, where picturesque lakes and the simple yet captivating act of observing fish reside, a profound opportunity unfolds for individuals to reconnect with both themselves and the natural world. Whether one seeks relief from stress, aims to embrace mindfulness, yearns for emotional healing, or seeks the spark of creative inspiration, this forest sanctuary offers solace and revitalization that can only be discovered within the nurturing embrace of Mother Nature herself. Therefore, it is

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iPhone 13 Pro Screen Issue: A Seamless Solution

By Shahabuddin Amerudin On September 10th, 2023, my trusty iPhone 13 Pro, now nearly 21 months old and beyond its warranty period, threw me an unexpected curveball with a perplexing screen problem. To my dismay, the screen began flickering erratically, causing not only concern but also significant inconvenience. Determined to find a solution, I scoured the depths of online forums and blogs, hoping for a quick fix through software updates or adjusted settings. Regrettably, my efforts yielded no resolution. As the morning of September 11th dawned, the issue escalated, with the screen slowly transitioning into an unsettling shade of green.

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Geospatial Analysis and 4D-GIS in Mineral Exploration

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Abstract Mineral exploration, a complex and high-stakes endeavor rife with uncertainties, is experiencing a paradigm shift through the integration of cutting-edge geospatial analysis and the revolutionary 4D-Geographic Information System (GIS). In this review, we unravel the profound impact of these technologies on mineral exploration, shedding light on their indispensable role in mitigating risks and significantly increasing the likelihood of discovering concealed mineral deposits. Our exploration traverses a spectrum of input datasets, encompassing remote sensing, exploration geochemistry, exploration geophysics, and geological indicators. Furthermore, we delve into the pivotal stages of user-guided interpretation and predictive modeling, which play a

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Unraveling the Power of Multi-Dimensional GIS

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Introduction Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have undergone a remarkable transformation since their inception, revolutionizing the way we perceive and interact with spatial data. Historically, GIS primarily operated in two dimensions (2D) for basic mapping or ventured into three dimensions (3D) for modeling terrain and structures. However, as our comprehension of complex spatial phenomena has evolved, so too has the need for more advanced GIS capabilities. This brings us to the fascinating world of Multi-Dimensional GIS, a frontier that transcends the traditional X, Y, and Z axes to capture a broader spectrum of spatial information. Understanding Multi-Dimensional GIS

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Navigating the Future: Autonomous Driving and the Crucial Technologies Behind It

Introduction The concept of autonomous driving, once relegated to science fiction, is rapidly becoming a reality in the automotive industry. This transformative technology has the potential to reshape our daily lives, making transportation safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of autonomous driving and explore the various technologies required to make it a viable and reliable mode of transportation. The Vision-Based Foundation At the heart of autonomous driving lies computer vision, a technology that enables machines to interpret and understand their surroundings through visual data. Equipping autonomous vehicles with cameras that operate even

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Factors Affecting Height Accuracy in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Abstract Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), with the Global Positioning System (GPS) as the most prominent example, have transformed the field of geospatial positioning, enabling precise location determination for a multitude of applications. While GNSS provides remarkable accuracy in horizontal position measurements, the accuracy of height measurements remains subject to various influencing factors. This article conducts an in-depth and comprehensive review of the factors impacting height accuracy in GNSS measurements, along with exploring the diverse techniques and technologies deployed to enhance height precision. Additionally, this paper delves into the practical applications of high-precision height measurements in geodesy,

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Stereotaip dalam Filem Aksi dan Kejahatan

Oleh Shahabuddin Amerudin Mengapa selalu dalam filem, apabila ada adegan dua kumpulan penjahat yang ingin menjalankan urusan dadah, mereka selalu berjumpa di gudang, pelabuhan, atau landasan kapal terbang? Semuanya jelas, tanpa gangguan daripada polis. Malah, satu pun tidak ada penjagaan kawasan oleh pihak berkuasa. Selain itu, kebiasaannya akan ada bos dalam kumpulan penjahat, iaitu Geng A dan Geng B. Kedua-dua kumpulan ini akan membawa kereta T20 yang mahal. Bos tidak banyak bercakap dan memberikan arahan melalui isyarat mudah atau dengan gerakan kepala. Yang paling menghairankan, anggota kumpulan tersebut sepertinya tahu dengan tepat apa yang perlu dilakukan. Mereka selalunya berbadan sasa

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Mata Angin – Jejak Sejarah di Langit Tanah Melayu

Pernahkah anda memikirkan makna dan sejarah di sebalik arah mata angin? Dalam zaman kanak-kanak kita, mungkin kita terbiasa dengan anggapan bahawa ‘barat’ merujuk kepada ‘Bharat,’ nama kuno India, manakala ‘timur’ adalah merujuk kepada Laut Timor. Namun, sebenarnya, terdapat lebih banyak rahsia yang tersembunyi di dalam petunjuk ini di langit. Tahukah anda bahawa ‘Barat’ dan ‘Timur’ sebenarnya adalah nama angin? Di Malaysia, kita kenal dengan baik monsun barat daya dan monsun timur laut. Walaupun ‘Barat’ dan ‘Timur’ mungkin kelihatan seperti penunjuk geografi, sebenarnya mereka adalah angin yang memberi nama kepada arah tersebut. ‘Barat,’ dalam konteks ini, ada yang berpendapat bahawa ia

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Addressing Common Challenges in Creating Study Area Maps in Thesis Writing

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Introduction Geographic Information Systems (GIS) plays an indispensable role in various fields, including environmental science, urban planning, and public health. For GIS students at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), producing a high-quality study area map is a fundamental aspect of their thesis writing. However, this seemingly straightforward task can be surprisingly challenging, especially when it comes to fitting the map within the constraints of an A4 or B5 paper size. As a result, many students resort to using Google Maps as a basemap or backdrop image, rather than creating a map from scratch. In this article, we

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Creating an Effective Study Area Map in GIS

By Shahabuddin Amerudin Introduction Geographic Information Systems (GIS) play a pivotal role in modern spatial analysis, helping us understand and visualize complex spatial data. Among the fundamental tasks in GIS, creating a study area map is a common challenge that students often encounter. A well-designed study area map is crucial for any GIS project, as it serves as the foundation for data analysis, decision-making, and communication. In this article, we will discuss the importance of a good study area map and the criteria and strategies needed to design one effectively. The Importance of a Good Study Area Map A study

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