KUALA LUMPUR July 16, 2026 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated that any Israeli citizens confirmed to be in Malaysia will be deported immediately, in line with the country’s long-standing policy of not recognizing Israel and maintaining no diplomatic relations with it.
Anwar made the remarks on July 15 while responding to reporters about allegations that Israeli dual nationals have been residing at a private tech community in Forest City, Johor.
“We are investigating… we will not allow it. If there is any case, action will be taken. If there are Israeli citizens, given that we do not recognize Israel, they will be deported immediately,” he said.
The comments follow viral social media claims that Israeli participants — allegedly using second passports — are involved with The Network School, a residential and co-working community for “techno-optimists” located in Forest City, a large development on reclaimed land in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
The community was founded in 2024 by Balaji Srinivasan, former chief technology officer of Coinbase. It targets digital nomads and entrepreneurs with accommodation, meals, and facilities for a monthly fee of around US$1,500.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi had earlier called for a comprehensive investigation by the Home Ministry, Immigration Department, police, and other agencies into the operations and participants of the Network School.
Malaysian authorities are actively investigating the allegations, including the nationalities, travel documents, and immigration status of individuals at the site.
The Immigration Department reported that it had inspected 266 foreigners from 40 countries at the community and found their travel documents to be valid so far. Further checks are continuing to ensure full compliance with all entry requirements and laws.
Malaysia generally bars holders of Israeli passports from entering the country without special approval due to the lack of diplomatic ties. However, there is no blanket prohibition on dual nationals traveling on passports from other countries.
Malaysia has consistently maintained a pro-Palestinian foreign policy position and does not recognize the state of Israel. Anwar’s statement reinforces this policy amid heightened public scrutiny of the Forest City project and foreign involvement there.
A post on X (formerly Twitter) by the account @BRICSinfo on July 16 quickly went viral, highlighting Anwar’s comments with images of the Prime Minister and the Israeli flag, describing it as an order for the immediate deportation of Israeli citizens found in the country.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations proceed.
The situation remains under active review by relevant Malaysian government agencies.
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