Technology · World News Bureau
Malaysia explores full prohibition of Israeli-linked navigation app Waze
Malaysia has moved to restrict use of the navigation application Waze among government employees, citing concerns over the company's Israeli ownership. The government is now considering whether to extend the ban more broadly across the country.
LSN World News ·
The Malaysian government has prohibited civil servants from using Waze for official purposes, marking an escalation in restrictions against the navigation application due to its Israeli connections. The ban on government use represents the latest action in a series of measures targeting companies with ties to Israel.
Officials stated that the restriction applies to all state employees conducting official duties, effectively removing the app from government vehicles and work-related navigation tasks. The decision reflects growing pressure within Malaysia to distance public institutions from Israeli-linked entities and investments.
Beyond the civil service prohibition, Malaysian authorities are now examining whether to implement a comprehensive ban that would restrict the application's use more broadly throughout the country. Such a move would require coordination across multiple government agencies and telecommunications regulators.
Waze, which provides real-time traffic navigation and routing services, is owned by Google following its acquisition in 2013. The app has millions of users across Southeast Asia, where it remains a popular alternative to other navigation platforms. The potential broader ban underscores ongoing tensions in the region regarding economic relationships with Israeli companies.