Techno-utopia or Foreign Enclave? Israeli Citizen Claims Rock Network School in Johor’s Forest City

A technology start-up co-living and co-working project in Malaysia's Forest City has ignited controversy, prompting a government investigation. Network School, founded by American entrepreneur Balaji Srinivasan, is accused of hosting Israeli participants who allegedly used second-country passports to enter Malaysia.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim addressed the issue directly, stating on July 15 that any Israeli citizens found to be involved with Network School would be immediately deported. "If any wrongdoing is found, action must be taken. If there are Israeli nationals involved, they will be deported immediately because Malaysia does not recognise Israel," he said.

Malaysia maintains a strict policy against Israel due to its pro-Palestine stance, barring Israeli passport holders from entering unless granted special permission. However, the government acknowledges that it cannot prevent Israelis from entering if they use passports from other nations, a practice that is not illegal. The Home Ministry confirmed on July 14 that a full investigation is underway, with vows of strict action against any misuse of the country's immigration facilities.

Forest City, the development where Network School is located, stated it is taking the allegations seriously and cooperating fully with authorities. The company reiterated its "zero-tolerance toward any breach of the law, misuse of premises, immigration non-compliance or activity that could jeopardise public safety, public order or national interests." Srinivasan and Network School have not publicly commented on the allegations.

Network School describes itself as a "frontier community for techno-optimists," functioning as a co-living space for tech founders and entrepreneurs. Srinivasan envisions it as a component of his broader concept of a "network state," where technopreneurs could collectively fund new digital nations, aiming for eventual diplomatic recognition.

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If any wrongdoing is found, action must be taken. If there are Israeli nationals involved, they will be deported immediately because Malaysia does not recognise Israel.