Malaysia Bans Israeli Navigation App Waze for National Security
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS French by baba
Malaysia has banned its government employees from using the Israeli navigation app Waze, citing national security and data protection concerns. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the immediate ban, urging the public to also cease using the app. The government recommends a local alternative, TuTu, as a safer option, reflecting Malaysia's anti-Israel policy.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Malaysia banned government employees from using the Israeli navigation app Waze on October 20.
- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim cited national security and data protection concerns for the ban.
- Authorities also urged the general public to stop using Waze.
- The government recommended a local app, TuTu, as a safer alternative.
- The decision reflects Malaysia's policy of not having diplomatic relations with Israel.
Malaysia has banned its government employees from using Waze, the navigation application developed in Israel, citing national security and data protection concerns. The ban, effective immediately, was announced on Tuesday, October 20, by the National Cybersecurity Commission, chaired by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
While the prohibition officially applies only to state employees, authorities have also urged the general public to stop using the app. Prime Minister Ibrahim stated on Facebook that the measure aims to safeguard sensitive government information and personal user data from potential misuse. He specifically raised concerns about Waze collecting user data and posing risks due to its Israeli origins.
"Sensitive government information and citizens' personal data must be protected from any exploitation by the Israeli regime that could undermine national security and the country's sovereignty," Ibrahim declared. Malaysian authorities are now recommending TuTu, a local navigation app, as a safer alternative for both public servants and private citizens.
This decision aligns with Kuala Lumpur's long-standing hostile policy towards Israel, with which Malaysia has no diplomatic relations. The Malaysian government consistently expresses support for the Palestinian cause and has vowed to maintain a firm stance, with Ibrahim promising to close "any loophole that could be exploited by the Israeli regime to threaten the security of the country and its citizens."
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