The key facts

  • Malaysia banned civil servants from using Waze, citing Israeli jurisdiction over data
  • Waze (owned by Google) called the accusations 'completely false'
  • Anwar Ibrahim allowed for a full ban if an alternative exists; the local app TuJu is criticized as ineffective

Ban for civil servants

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Wednesday announced a ban on civil servants using the navigation app Waze in order to 'protect government information and users' personal data from the threat of misuse by the Israeli regime.' Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo clarified in parliament on Thursday that the ban applies only to civil servants performing official duties, citing data security and rights concerns: 'users' data falls under Israeli jurisdiction.' The National Security Council warned that violators of the immediate ban could face disciplinary measures. The government did not disclose details about how the ban will be enforced and monitored.

Waze's response

Waze, owned by Google and founded in Israel, where it remains registered, rejected the claims. 'Assertions that Waze collects sensitive government information or allows any party to exploit users' personal data are completely false,' the app's spokesperson told AFP, adding that the company operates under strict privacy policies and complies with global data protection standards.

Possible full ban and alternatives

On Friday, Anwar told journalists that Malaysia needs to study alternatives to Waze, and if 'our capabilities in the future are sufficient, we may consider a full ban.' He called the decision indisputable and the issue a matter of national security, saying Malaysia is being 'monitored' because of its opposition to Israel: 'They use all their influence against us.' The Prime Minister suggested users switch to the local app TuJu. Waze is widely used in Malaysia, including as a backup navigator by drivers of the ride-hailing service Grab. Former Finance Minister and lawmaker Lim Guan Eng noted that many Malaysians complain that TuJu is 'ineffective and should not become a mandatory replacement for Waze.' Muslim-majority Malaysia has long criticized Israel and does not maintain diplomatic relations with it.