PETALING JAYA: Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo says Network School has been operating in Forest City, Johor, since 2024, and that any issues pertaining to its business and premises applications fall under the jurisdiction of the state government, specifically the local council.
After visiting landslide sites at Kampung Sungai Kayu Ara and Kampung Chempaka this morning, Gobind, who is also the Damansara MP, pointed out that Forest City is located in Iskandar Puteri.
“This is not a new issue. A business licence was granted in 2024 and premises were subsequently established. All of these matters fall under the purview of the state government,” said Gobind.
“As for visas, these are managed by the Immigration Department and the Home Ministry. Regarding digital-related matters, we have had applications through the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). However, these applications are also closely scrutinised by the Home Ministry and the Immigration Department.”
He said consequently, when such issues arise, they are referred back to the Immigration Department.
“The department has confirmed that checks have been conducted and everything is in order. I have also directed MDEC to monitor the complaints that have been made and to present a report to me.
“This process applies not only to Network School but to all entities. We must uphold the laws of our country,” Gobind added.
On July 14, the Immigration Department conducted checks with the Iskandar Puteri City Council, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, the Johor government and the police.
According to Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban, all 266 foreigners screened at the premises had valid immigration documents.
Network School came under scrutiny following allegations that Israelis were among its participants. Malaysia does not have diplomatic ties with Israel.
Authorities also launched investigations into the school’s operations and regulatory compliance. However, immigration checks later found no evidence of Israeli passport holders at the premises.
Amid the controversy, Network School founder Balaji Srinivasan said a planned RM500 million expansion in Malaysia had been put on hold pending assurances that issues surrounding its Forest City campus would not recur.
Balaji is also seeking a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to discuss a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Malaysian government.