Anwar orders swift deportation of Israelis if Forest City claims are proven

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has warned that Malaysia will immediately deport any Israeli nationals found to be residing in the country if ongoing investigations substantiate allegations involving a technology community in Johor's Forest City.

Reaffirming Malaysia's policy of not recognising Israel, Anwar said the government would not tolerate any breach of the country's immigration and foreign policy position.

"All the relevant agencies are investigating this matter and I believe Zambry will provide further clarification. We are investigating it and will not allow it because we do not recognise Israel.

"They will be deported immediately if the allegations are proven to be true. All the relevant agencies are already carrying out investigations," he told a press conference on Wednesday.

Anwar was responding to calls by the Johor government for federal authorities to investigate claims that Israeli citizens holding dual nationality were residing at a private technology community known as "Network School" in Forest City.

The community, launched in 2024 by technology investor Balaji Srinivasan, operates as a private residential and co-working hub targeting self-described "techno-optimists". Residents pay a monthly fee of US$1,500, which includes accommodation, meals and access to shared facilities, including a gymnasium.

On Tuesday, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi urged the Home Ministry, the Immigration Department, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, the Royal Malaysia Police and other enforcement agencies to verify the citizenship status of individuals residing in the community, including whether they were using second passports to remain in Malaysia.

He also called on the Higher Education Ministry and the Digital Ministry to investigate the legal status of Network School, following claims that it does not provide formal educational services or operate as a recognised institution of higher learning.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir is expected to provide further clarification as investigations continue. - July 15, 2026