By M.Krishnamoorthy
A former Associate Professor, author, media coach, and journalist
Invite qualified Malaysian companies, startups, and research institutions to compete in a transparent, open tender to replace Waze, as TuJu has failed to meet its purpose.
The government should make the selection criteria, evaluation process, project milestones and performance requirements clear from the outset.
This call for transparency comes from Klang MP and Selangor DAP deputy chairman V. Ganabatirau.
“The TuJu issue raises serious questions about transparency, public accountability and how government technology projects are awarded. Malaysians deserve clear answers about the project’s cost, procurement process, ownership, developer selection, and the basis for approving the contract.”
Ganabatirau added in a media statement published on his Facebook: “The government must explain how Prosignal Consortium Sdn Bhd (PCSB) secured the TuJu project and whether it conducted an open, competitive tender. If no open tender was held, the government should explain why and disclose the relevant approval process, contractual arrangements and expenditure, subject to legitimate commercial and legal considerations.”
The MP made the call because Malaysia has talented software engineers, technology entrepreneurs, university researchers, and young innovators capable of developing digital solutions for local needs.
The government should not overlook them when awarding projects involving public interest and public resources.
“A Malaysian navigation application should be developed based on merit, technical capability, reliability, user experience, data security and value for money, not political connections or preferential access.”
There was no need to rush the appointment of another developer merely to replace TuJu. “Any alternative must first demonstrate accurate navigation, reliable traffic information, timely updates, adequate cybersecurity, and a positive user experience. The application should undergo independent technical assessments, pilot testing in different parts of the country, and public trials before any nationwide roll-out,” the Klang MP added.
He stressed the app's performance should be measured against established navigation platforms – including Waze – using clear and publicly accountable standards. Public confidence cannot be restored simply by changing the application’s name or appointing a new contractor. It must be earned through proven performance and transparent governance.
The government should also explore existing funding mechanisms to help qualified Malaysian startups develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), test their technology and demonstrate commercial viability.
Freelance Writer M. Krishnamoorthy (https://helloimkrishna.com/) is a media coach, former Associate Professor, and undercover journalist. He has freelanced with Bernama, NST, The Star, and Malaysiakini. He also freelances as a fixer/coordinator for CNN, BBC, German and Australian Television networks, and The New York Times. As an undercover journalist, he has highlighted society's concerns.
M. Krishnamoorthy (krishnamuthaly@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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