GEORGE TOWN: The restriction on civil servants using the Waze navigation application requires further clarification, as the app helps them navigate while carrying out official duties, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Chow said the app had become an essential tool for many drivers, especially during peak hours.
"Using it (Waze) has become an important part of driving for motorists across Malaysia, helping them find faster routes to their destinations, particularly during peak congestion hours.
"It is understandable that the public has raised concerns about the restriction.
"A clearer explanation will help motorists understand the rationale behind the restriction, including whether suitable alternatives are available," he said during a press conference on Thursday (Oct 22).
Chow was responding to questions about the ban on civil servants using Waze.
Asked whether the state government had received the directive, he said he understood that it had reached his driver.
"My driver has been told not to use it," he said.
According to a frequently asked questions document on the directive, which was issued by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar on Tuesday (Oct 20), the ban applies only when civil servants are carrying out official duties.
Nevertheless, they are encouraged to uninstall the app from their devices and switch to suitable local navigation alternatives, such as TuJu, which was developed by the Malaysian Highway Authority.
The decision was made at a National Cyber Security Committee meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
