Malaysia’s homegrown navigation app TuJu is facing mounting criticism over technical failures and missing features, despite attracting more than 800,000 downloads following concerns over the security of foreign applications such as Waze.
Jointly developed by the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA) and Prosignal Consortium Sdn Bhd (PCSB), the app was introduced as a local alternative for motorists but has struggled to meet users’ expectations.
A review of the application found multiple problems, including malfunctioning navigation, failed location searches and difficulties logging in.
The writer’s own attempt to use TuJu for a journey from Bangsar to Bukit Jalil proved equally frustrating, with the navigation system failing to work altogether.
The location search function frequently returned a “No Results Found” message, even when searching for prominent destinations such as Pavilion Bukit Jalil and Bukit Jalil Golf & Country Club.
Users also faced problems accessing their accounts, with an “Invalid Email” message repeatedly appearing despite the correct login details being entered.
The app reportedly lacked a password reset function and a direct channel for users to report technical problems, adding to the difficulties faced by those trying to use it.
Similar complaints were found in the application store’s review section, where users also criticised the reliability of its real-time navigation.
Among the reported issues were frequent disconnections, confusing directions and the absence of alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion — features commonly found in other navigation apps.
One user, identified as JuanLela 9497, complained that even registering and logging in had become difficult.
“Even registering is difficult, let alone logging in. Please review this application. It has already been featured on TV3, but its quality is extremely disappointing,” the user said.
Another user, Fauzan Roslan, said the app failed to return results for basic searches.
“Typing ‘CIMB Bank’ into the search bar does not return any results. If the application is not ready and lacks basic functions, it should not have been launched yet,” he said.
The criticism has also drawn a response from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who apologised for the inconvenience caused by the government’s push to encourage motorists to use TuJu.
Anwar confirmed that he had received feedback from MHA acknowledging that the application remained incomplete and had numerous shortcomings.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, meanwhile, called on MHA and PCSB to provide a detailed and comprehensive explanation to help restore public confidence in the app.
MHA and PCSB are reportedly working to restore their servers and improve the system in stages.
