SHAH ALAM - For many Malaysian drivers, the commute starts the same way: phone in the cradle, destination in, Waze on. Now the government wants that habit broken.
On Oct 20, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim urged the public to use TuJu, a local app developed by the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), instead of Waze.
He said it followed concerns over the security of users’ information and movement data, as Waze is bound by Israeli government laws. Hours later, a circular from Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar barred civil servants from using Waze with immediate effect.
The Prime Minister’s Office said the decision took into account Waze Mobile Ltd’s status as a data controller operating under Israeli laws. It added that the government would protect sensitive information and Malaysians’ personal data from exploitation. Reports noted that Anwar did not detail the specific risks.
A shaky start for the replacement
TuJu is not new. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi launched it on Nov 26, 2025, with Prosignal Consortium Sdn Bhd as developer. It promises real-time toll and traffic updates, live CCTV feeds and emergency assistance, all drawn from LLM’s own traffic centre.
But the early verdict from users has not been kind. A review by local media portal called its turn-by-turn navigation frustrating, the one feature drivers rely on most.
It also noted that TuJu requires users to log in and displays a permission screen on data tracking. At the time of the review, the app was rated 2.5 out of five stars on Google Play and 2.6 on the Apple App Store.
For now, the message from users is that TuJu needs a major upgrade before it can carry the load the government is asking of it.
Other options on the road
Drivers weighing their choices have plenty to consider. Each app has its own strengths, but all share the same purpose of getting you from A to B. Some add road hazard alerts, offline maps or public transport information.
PINTAZ
Built by Malaysian developer Muhammad Danish Syahmi with local road users in mind. It offers toll estimates, AES and JPJ camera alerts and community reports on accidents and roadblocks. Lane guidance and 3D junction displays help at highway exits, and a motorcycle mode caters to two-wheel riders.
AMap Global
Developed by China’s AutoNavi Information Technology Co Ltd, it offers 3D navigation views, lane guidance and public transport information. Malaysian users should check local map coverage and traffic update availability first.
TomTom
Alerts for road incidents and speed cameras, plus alternative routes based on traffic conditions, which help drivers adjust when delays hit.
Moovit
Made for commuters who rely on public transport. It covers journeys with transfers between buses, trains and other services, with arrival information and service updates where available.
HERE WeGo Maps & Navigation
Supports driving, walking and public transport navigation in supported locations. Its offline maps can be downloaded before a trip, though offline navigation may lack live traffic information.
The right choice will depend on your usual routes and travel needs.