MalaGIS

Sharing GIS Technologies, Resources and News.

Displaying Selected Layer Count in QGIS with PyQGIS

When working with numerous layers in QGIS, it is often necessary to select multiple layers simultaneously for operations. However, with a large number of layers, it becomes difficult to quickly discern exactly how many are selected—don't worry, you can easily solve this by writing a small tool with PyQGIS!

Today, we share two methods to display the count of selected layers in real-time. These methods are straightforward to implement, with clear code, and can be tried by those in need.

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China 1:1,000,000 Geomorphological Type Spatial Distribution Data Sharing

In a previous article titled "「GIS Data」Chinese Geographic Region Partition Vector Data", we shared vector data on geographic region partitions. Recently, some users in our group requested geomorphological data. After searching, we actually found a 1:1,000,000 geomorphological type spatial distribution dataset from the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and are sharing it with everyone.

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How to Render Albers Projection in Web Maps Using OpenLayers and Leaflet

Recently, I was assigned another GIS dashboard project. My manager asked me to research the mainstream design styles currently on the market. Coincidentally, I had previously introduced a collection of such dashboard works in an article titled "Open-Source Dashboard Templates for GIS Developers: BigDataView Project". Combined with various examples shared within our community group, I managed to complete the task.

During the research process, I noticed an interesting phenomenon: many dashboards still use maps in the EPSG:3857 projection, which results in a "tilted" depiction of China's map. Therefore, using OpenLayers and Leaflet as examples, and with the help of various AI tools, I created two demos to implement the rendering of the Albers projection on the web.

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AI-Powered Quick Map Production: A Case Study of China's 2024 Birth Rate Visualization

Yesterday, someone in a group shared a map of China's 2024 birth rate, which looked quite interesting. However, this map was different from the usual ones—regions with lower birth rates were colored redder. Someone asked if it could be quickly recreated.

Two years ago, I might have been too lazy to bother because redrawing the map would require manually extracting and recording data from the map one by one, then importing it into QGIS or ArcGIS for data processing, and finally producing the map. But in 2025, the era of AI, this task is a breeze. Today, I'll share a set of AI-based rapid map production methods. Next time you encounter such a demand, just go for it!

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Navigating Real-time Meteorological Data on China Meteorological Data Service Network

Some time ago in the GIS group, a colleague inquired about sources for accessing granular meteorological data such as temperature, wind speed/direction, humidity, air quality, cloud cover, UV index, etc. While not deeply familiar with meteorological data myself, the group fortunately has many experts. The expert @ESPIPE generously shared a data product website from the meteorological authority. After reviewing it, I found the data exceptionally detailed, supporting queries for any latitude/longitude location across China. Today, I'll share this resource—those with similar needs may find it useful.

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Unveiling Fake Location: Hidden Legal Pitfalls in Geographic Information Systems

The other day while working overtime, I received a violation warning notification from WeChat stating that one of my previous articles had been deleted for alleged violations. I was puzzled – I hadn’t recently run any advertisements. So why the violation?

Upon logging into the official account backend, I discovered the flagged article: "GIS Technique: Methods for Modifying Positioning in Android and iOS" had been removed due to reports of illegal content.

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Converting China Standard Map Service EPS Files to SHP Format

Recently, many have asked why the China National Standard Map Service doesn’t offer SHP format downloads and whether EPS files can be converted to SHP format.

Regarding the first question, I don’t know the exact reason. Personally, I suspect it may relate to the unique coordinate system used by the standard map service (refer to "What Projection Coordinate System Does the National Standard Map Use?"). So, can we convert the currently provided EPS format maps to SHP?

The answer is: Yes, but it’s largely unnecessary.

I recently experimented with this process and documented the steps below for those interested.

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ArcGIS Pro 3.5 Installation Package and Guide

The latest ArcGIS Pro 3.5 installation packageis available, Our team has personally tested it and confirmed it works. The installation process is relatively straightforward.

What New Features Does ArcGIS Pro 3.5?

The main highlights include:

  • Revolutionary 3D mesh analysis capabilities, opening new doors for BIM and detailed 3D model processing.
  • Significant enhancements in image processing, particularly deep learning capabilities. Notably, the integration of the SAM model provides a powerful new approach for image segmentation.
  • Practical updates for data import (GPX) and geoprocessing tools (such as building/contour simplification), improving daily workflow efficiency.
  • Continuously improved cartography, data management, and sharing functionalities.

For detailed update information, please refer to the official website introduction:
https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/get-started/whats-new-in-arcgis-pro.htm

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Ditch ArcGIS: Use ShadeMap to Simulates Sunlight Analysis Directly Online

During a casual chat in the MalaGIS WeChat group, someone asked when GIS skills become most useful in daily life. Answers ranged from food delivery route optimization to travel planning, but the most insightful response was "assessing location (including Feng Shui) for property purchases". Among factors like sunlight access—a critical yet often overlooked parameter—most standard map apps fail to provide this data, requiring specialized GIS software (refer to methods in "ArcGIS 3D Handbook: Sunlight and 3D Path Analysis"). Recently, I discovered an online WebGIS application that simulates sunlight and shadows for any global location at any date—an excellent tool worth sharing.

Official site: https://shademap.app/

ShadeMap enables browser-based simulation of mountain, building, and tree shadows at any global coordinate for customizable dates/times. Users achieve precise, interactive sunlight and shadow analysis without client installations.

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Sentinel-2 Super-Resolution: SR4RS vs. S2DR3

Remote sensing imagery is crucial for global monitoring but often limited by sensor spatial resolution and the high cost of acquiring ultra-high-resolution data. The Sentinel-2 (S2) mission provides multispectral imagery across 13 bands at 10m, 20m, and 60m resolutions. However, these resolutions may not capture fine details required for tasks like land cover mapping, agricultural monitoring, or disaster assessment. Super-Resolution (SR) technology addresses this by reconstructing high-resolution images from low-resolution inputs, significantly enhancing spatial detail in S2 imagery for more precise data support.

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