Summary
- RM500 million expansion plan suspended.
- Founder seeks meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
- Johor orders one premise to cease operations over licensing issues.
- Immigration checks found 266 foreigners with valid documents.
JOHOR BAHRU, July 19 — Network School has placed its planned RM500 million expansion in Malaysia on hold as authorities continue investigating its operations at Forest City.
Founder Balaji Srinivasan said the organization will defer further investments until it receives assurances that the current issues will not recur.
While requesting a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to discuss a proposed memorandum of understanding (MoU) for its future operations in Malaysia.
Balaji said Network School has already invested more than RM100 million in its Forest City campus since 2024, employing Malaysians and supporting technology startups.
He added that the planned expansion would have further strengthened Malaysia’s position as a regional technology hub.
The development follows enforcement action by the Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP), which ordered one of the organizations premises to cease operations.
After it was found to be operating without a valid business licence. Another notice was issued over non-compliant advertising signage.
Balaji said the issues involve licensing and signboard approvals, adding that the organization has been given time to rectify both matters and that its programs continue as scheduled.
The investigation was launched following allegations linking the technology community to Israeli nationals.
Earlier inspections by the Immigration Department involving 266 foreign nationals from 40 countries found all individuals possessed valid immigration documents.
Although authorities said further checks are continuing to ensure full compliance with Malaysian laws.
