Johor Backs Closure of Forest City Network School, Says Compliance With Malaysian Law Is Non-Negotiable
JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor government has reaffirmed that all businesses and organisations operating in the state must comply fully with Malaysian laws after supporting the revocation of the business licence of NS0 Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (Network School) at Forest City.
The decision, which takes effect on July 22, follows enforcement action by the Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP), which ordered the company to cease operations after reviewing inspection reports, enforcement findings and representations submitted by the company.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the state government fully supports MBIP’s decision, stressing that the enforcement process was carried out in accordance with existing laws and regulatory procedures.
According to him, action was only taken after complaints and information were verified, inspections conducted, instances of non-compliance identified and the necessary legal processes completed.
He emphasised that the length of time an organisation has been operating does not automatically indicate compliance with licensing requirements.
Instead, he said enforcement authorities are obliged to act whenever violations of applicable laws or licence conditions are discovered.
“When non-compliance is identified, action must be taken without compromise,” Onn Hafiz said, adding that the state government will continue strengthening coordination among enforcement agencies to ensure regulatory breaches are detected and addressed promptly.
While reiterating Johor’s commitment to attracting quality domestic and foreign investments, the Menteri Besar stressed that economic development must always be balanced with adherence to Malaysian laws and national interests.
He said the state welcomes investors capable of creating employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth but made it clear that no company or organisation would be granted special treatment beyond the requirements of the law.
Onn Hafiz also underscored the importance of safeguarding national security, sovereignty and public interest, particularly given Johor’s strategic location bordering Singapore.
He called upon the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Immigration Department, the Royal Malaysia Police and other security agencies to continue investigating any potential offences related to the alleged misuse of second passports, identity misrepresentation, immigration violations or other breaches of Malaysian legislation.
According to him, any weaknesses in immigration controls or regulatory enforcement must be addressed swiftly and decisively to preserve the integrity of Malaysia’s border management system.
The Menteri Besar further urged the Ministry of Digital and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to review any Malaysia Digital status or official recognition granted to the organisation should investigations reveal violations of established requirements or governing principles.
He also called for stronger due diligence procedures when assessing companies and organisations seeking to operate in the state.
Among the areas requiring closer scrutiny, he identified ownership structures, funding sources, operational models, licensing compliance and the narratives promoted by organisations operating within Malaysia.
Onn Hafiz said closer coordination among relevant agencies would help ensure that future investments and international initiatives undergo comprehensive evaluation from regulatory, immigration, licensing and national security perspectives before approval.
He added that the matter had been presented to and received the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Johor Regent, Tunku Mahkota Ismail.
