Malaysian authorities are investigating allegations of Israeli involvement in a private technology community in the southern state of Johor, as Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reiterated that Malaysia does not recognise Israel and would deport Israeli nationals found to be in the country in violation of its immigration rules.
According to local media reports, Anwar said, “If we find any Israeli, they will be deported immediately because we do not recognise Israel.”
His comments came as the Ministry of Home Affairs investigates allegations involving Network School, a community for digital professionals founded by former Coinbase Chief Technology Officer Balaji Srinivasan.
The investigation follows social media claims that some participants in the project hold dual Israeli and other nationalities and entered Malaysia using non-Israeli passports.
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According to The Straits Times, the community is based in Forest City, a large-scale development project built on reclaimed land in Johor.
The Network School website describes the project as a community of technology entrepreneurs and digital professionals seeking to build startup-focused residential communities.
Anwar said Malaysia would take appropriate action if the investigation confirmed Israeli involvement that violated the country’s immigration regulations.
“If the allegations are proven true, they will be deported immediately. All relevant authorities are already conducting investigations,” he said.
Malaysia does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel. Holders of Israeli passports generally require special permission to enter the country, while dual nationals may enter using passports issued by other countries, subject to Malaysian immigration laws.
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