KUALA LUMPUR : Maxim Malaysia has announced an update to its in-app safety features, reaffirming that user protection remains a key priority. The new version introduces a faster and more reliable SOS button, expanded emergency contact notification capabilities, and a separate alert system for nearby partner drivers designed to expedite on-road assistance.
The core SOS button functions are now unified for both passengers and drivers. In an emergency, any user can press the SOS button and then select the most appropriate action: call emergency services at 999 or instantly notify three pre-selected emergency contacts. If the user chooses to alert their family members, those contacts receive an SMS with precise GPS coordinates and a link to a dynamic route map – the notification is delivered even with unstable internet connectivity.
In addition to the basic SOS options, partner drivers have access to an exclusive Driver Alert System. This feature is activated separately within the same SOS button and is intended for situations requiring physical assistance on the road – such as breakdowns, accidents, safety threats, or sudden medical issues. Once triggered, a notification with the incident type and coordinates is sent to available partner drivers within a radius of up to three kilometres. The nearest driver can then arrive at the scene before emergency services arrive. Depending on the severity of the situation, the driver may also contact emergency services or their contacts via call, in addition to the alert system.
The decision always remains with the individual best placed to assess who needs assistance at that moment. To safeguard yourself and loved ones in advance, simply add emergency contacts in the “Safety” section – it takes just a minute, but could save a life in an emergency.
As Mohd Hazwan Musli, Director of Maxim Malaysia, explained: “Safety remains a vital part of every trip, and the new enhancements make obtaining help more flexible and responsive. Instead of a single standard alert, users can choose who to inform first – loved ones, professional rescuers, or nearby fellow drivers. Each option can be accessed within seconds, and the time saved could prove crucial.”
Additional safety features for passengers and drivers include a secure in-app chat that protects against fraud, internal trip monitoring that tracks essential journey information, including GPS location for every ride. Passengers also have access to the Trip Sharing feature, enabling them to send a real-time trip link to family or friends immediately after boarding.
All data transmitted through SOS, Driver Alert, and Trip Sharing is encrypted according to modern standards and stored for a limited period. Access is restricted to authorised safety team members and emergency operators, only when necessary and upon request from law enforcement authorities.-pr/BNN
