Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

travel

Thailand

driving

driving license

cross border

overseas

physical copy

Malaysians planning a road trip to Thailand are being reminded to carry a physical driving licence, as Thailand does not recognise Malaysia's digital licence available through the MyJPJ app.
The reminder comes after a Malaysian driver was fined 1,000 baht (around RM121) during a roadblock in Hat Yai after she was unable to produce a physical driving licence despite showing the digital version on her phone.
While digital licences have become the norm for motorists in Malaysia, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) has stressed that the same rules do not apply overseas.
Malaysian Driver Fined After Showing MyJPJ Digital Licence
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cd02ea613ab0347344b3328dd8e7db1832872928b445cdf2a07205047f9fa625" />
The incident took place during a traffic inspection in Hat Yai, a popular destination among Malaysian travellers.
According to Thai authorities, the woman presented her digital driving licence via the MyJPJ application after being asked to produce her licence.
However, Thai police informed her that only a physical Malaysian driving licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recognised under their regulations.
As she was unable to provide either document, she was issued a 1,000 baht (approximately RM121) fine for failing to produce a valid driving licence.
The case has since prompted JPJ to remind Malaysians travelling by car into Thailand to check that they have the correct documents before crossing the border.
Why Malaysia Switched To Digital Driving Licences
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4a38e5d114db5290fd4a685340e834d04a9021ad3e159998a4ab598557ba7b4b" />
Malaysia introduced digital driving licences and digital road tax in February 2023 as part of the government's wider digitalisation initiative.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced at the time that owners of privately registered vehicles would no longer be required to display a physical road tax sticker or carry a physical driving licence while driving within Malaysia.
Instead, motorists could access both documents digitally through the MyJPJ app or the JPJ website, making it easier to store, renew and verify vehicle-related documents without needing physical copies.
The move was intended to improve convenience, reduce paperwork and support the country's push towards digital government services.
However, the digital licence is only recognised by Malaysian enforcement authorities and does not automatically extend to other countries.
Thailand Still Requires A Physical Licence
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/eb5ed09d4e4ce7aff6ae4fd4c68142306e73b0bffcd98fee635cf8995447373f" />
Kelantan JPJ director Mohd Misuari Abdullah reminded motorists that although digital licences are perfectly valid within Malaysia, Thailand continues to require drivers to present either a physical driving licence or an International Driving Permit during inspections.
He urged Malaysians planning to drive across the border not to rely solely on the MyJPJ app, as doing so could result in fines or unnecessary delays during roadblocks.
Many travellers already prepare essentials such as passports, vehicle ownership documents, insurance, Thai SIM cards and exchanged currency before entering Thailand. However, officials noted that some drivers overlook bringing their physical driving licence after becoming accustomed to using the digital version in Malaysia.
How To Get A Physical Driving Licence
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/06d707b15ea57c309252218c1c4123c5b21524554acf7d78aaa782f679411dcf" />
For Malaysians who no longer have a physical licence, obtaining one is relatively straightforward.
A physical driving licence can be applied for at any JPJ counter nationwide for a fee of RM20, while non-Malaysians are charged RM100.
Previously, applicants were required to provide proof of overseas travel before a physical licence would be issued. However, that requirement was removed in January 2026, making it easier for motorists to obtain one regardless of their travel plans.
Travelling Overseas? Consider An International Driving Permit
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dc103781cebbe958faf43d39c9a2c26b9e8d626da0efe77a1c04a644b76c0661" />
Besides carrying a physical Malaysian driving licence, JPJ also recommends motorists obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) when driving abroad.
The permit can also be applied for at any JPJ counter and is recognised in many countries, including Thailand.
For anyone planning a self-drive holiday across the border, ensuring you have either a physical driving licence or an IDP could help you avoid unnecessary fines and make your journey considerably smoother.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Planning to drive to Thailand? Don't forget to bring your physical driving licence. You can obtain one at any JPJ counter for RM20.

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Malaysians Driving To Thailand Reminded To Carry Physical Driving Licence Or Risk RM121 Fine

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

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Pizza hut Meltz 2026

Thousands of football fans gathered at Dataran Merdeka to watch Spain defeat Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, creating an electric atmosphere in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. However, the celebrations were overshadowed by the large amount of rubbish left behind after the event, prompting criticism from authorities and the public alike.
Images of the iconic square covered in plastic bottles, disposable cups, food wrappers, plastic bags and other waste quickly spread across social media, sparking a fresh debate about public cleanliness and civic responsibility in Malaysia.
DBKL Disappointed By The Aftermath
Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) expressed disappointment over the condition of Dataran Merdeka after more than 25,000 football fans gathered for the live screening.
In a statement shared on Facebook, DBKL acknowledged the enthusiasm shown by supporters but stressed that public celebrations should not come at the expense of shared spaces.
The city council reminded the public that while its workers would clean up the site, maintaining the cleanliness of Kuala Lumpur should not always depend on government personnel.
DBKL also described Dataran Merdeka as a symbol of the nation's history and dignity, saying the way people leave such places reflects how much they value them.
"A great city is not judged only by the crowds it attracts, but by the condition in which it is left after they have gone," the council said.
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Ministers Condemn Littering
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2a6fd6ba59fbcc0f4bc762c64d1b7bf295b9d6d0e1c2e97cd0b4fbd507fe670a" />
Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh also voiced her disappointment, thanking DBKL workers who remained behind to clean the area while urging Malaysians to take greater personal responsibility.
She said disposing of rubbish properly should be considered a basic courtesy, adding that the values of Malaysia Madani extend beyond government services to include citizens doing their part to care for public spaces.
"Kuala Lumpur is our home. Don't litter your own home and expect someone else to clean up after you," she said.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming echoed similar sentiments, questioning why littering continues to be a widespread problem despite decades of public education.
In a social media post, he described the scene as saddening and urged Malaysians to show greater respect for their surroundings, using the hashtags #MalaysiaBersih and #RancakkanMadani.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Negara kita dah Merdeka hampir 70 tahun. Semua orang ada pergi sekolah. Tolong tanya : Sampai bila kita nak erti jaga kebersihan? Sampai hati buang sampah merata tempat dan tanpa segan silu? Sedih, saya berasa sangat sedih. 😓<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/MalaysiaBersih?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MalaysiaBersih</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RancakkanMadani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RancakkanMadani</a> <a href="https://t.co/s4q7SmAOq4">pic.twitter.com/s4q7SmAOq4</a>
&mdash; Nga Kor Ming (@NgaKorMing) <a href="https://x.com/NgaKorMing/status/2079077619921031627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote>

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Public Questions Planning And Enforcement
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6a8ff1b87a1d2e47214855d1c76e1db93149278cb1402839f6133f1684f7d514" />
While many Malaysians condemned those responsible for leaving rubbish behind, others argued that the issue also highlighted shortcomings in event planning.
Some questioned whether enough rubbish bins had been provided around the venue, while others called for stronger enforcement of anti-littering laws during large public gatherings.
Several social media users pointed out that littering at major celebrations has become a recurring problem, arguing that authorities should deploy more enforcement officers to issue fines on the spot.
Malaysia's anti-littering laws already allow offenders to be fined up to RM2,000, with certain cases also carrying mandatory community service. However, many online questioned why enforcement appeared absent despite the large crowd at one of the country's most prominent public spaces.
Others suggested introducing entry fees or refundable deposits for future public viewing events to encourage visitors to dispose of their rubbish responsibly.
Alam Flora Clarifies Its Role
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Following the circulation of photos online, waste management company Alam Flora also clarified its responsibilities after some social media users questioned why the field remained littered.
The company explained that its cleaning crews had carried out waste collection, road sweeping and cleaning works on surrounding roads, pavements and paved public areas immediately after the event.
However, it said that grassy areas and locations beneath temporary tents do not fall within its cleaning scope, with those areas instead handled by the relevant authorities.
Calls For Better Public Behaviour
The incident has once again highlighted the challenge of maintaining cleanliness during large-scale public events.
While many praised DBKL workers for their efforts in restoring Dataran Merdeka, the overwhelming sentiment online was that public attitudes need to improve.
Authorities reiterated that Malaysians should be free to celebrate sporting occasions enthusiastically, but that freedom should never include treating public spaces as disposable.
As thousands gathered to celebrate one of football's biggest nights, many believe the lasting image should not have been the piles of rubbish left behind, but rather a reminder that civic responsibility is just as important as national pride.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Football united thousands at Dataran Merdeka, but the aftermath has sparked calls for better civic responsibility.

2c6a2cc4151a4ce71be8063cfb0d7c269a4f044ebceb8ecdb912467d092da7df

Dataran Merdeka Left Littered After World Cup Final Watch Party As Authorities Urge Greater Civic Responsibility

PlayStation 5 emulation is making surprising progress despite the console still being in the middle of its life cycle, with several community projects now capable of booting commercial PS5 games and, in some cases, even reaching early playable gameplay.
The recent breakthroughs have drawn significant attention following reports that Sony plans to stop producing physical PlayStation game discs from 2028. The move has sparked debate over digital ownership and game preservation, with many players concerned about the long-term accessibility of their purchased games. In response, interest in PS5 emulation has accelerated as developers work to preserve access to console titles.
Why PS5 Emulation Is Progressing Faster
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a3024cf755529b109c1a30877b2dd87909a4aa7eb2d7b1005f2e762a835ea447" />
Emulators are software that recreate a console's hardware and operating system, allowing games designed for one platform to run on another, typically a PC.
Traditionally, developing an emulator for a modern console takes many years because of the complexity involved. The PlayStation 4, for example, took years before emulators were capable of running demanding exclusives such as Bloodborne.
The PS5, however, appears to be advancing at a much quicker pace. One reason is that both the PS5 and modern PCs use x86 architecture, making certain aspects of hardware translation easier than with older consoles.
Growing concerns over Sony's reported shift towards an all-digital future have also fuelled renewed interest in game preservation, encouraging more developers to contribute to PS5 emulation projects.
SharpEmu Reaches Key Milestones
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
الأمور تحدث ⚠️ محاكي PS5 emu على PC ! يشغل من الآن لعبة Dreaming Sarah ومن الحصريات يشغل شاشة بدء Demons Souls Remake وجاري تطويره وتحسينه لتشغيل الالعاب مثل ShadPS4 بداية سريعة <a href="https://t.co/XRerLF9oak">pic.twitter.com/XRerLF9oak</a> <a href="https://t.co/NvdLZVCYoQ">pic.twitter.com/NvdLZVCYoQ</a>
&mdash; Khalid . (@Khalid2c7u) <a href="https://x.com/Khalid2c7u/status/2075283632395055506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2026</a></blockquote>

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Among the most prominent projects is SharpEmu, a Windows-based emulator written in C#.
Rather than fully recreating PS5 hardware, SharpEmu functions as a translation layer, allowing PCs to execute processor instructions directly while converting PlayStation-specific system functions into something Windows can process.
The emulator has already achieved several early milestones. Smaller 2D games such as Dreaming Sarah reportedly run successfully, while major PS5 titles including Demon's Souls, Astro Bot, Silent Hill: The Short Message and Superliminal are now capable of booting to varying stages.
Most still stop at loading or start-up screens, but simply getting modern PS5 exclusives to initialise is considered a significant technical achievement at this stage.
KytyPS5 Continues To Improve
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/88f288fff7b507562feffe85ed2b4963d47a0607847b1eb3b93c5fc1e6ae4fdb" />
Another project attracting attention is KytyPS5, which was originally launched as a combined PS4 and PS5 emulator before being abandoned and later revived by developer Nmzik with a renewed focus on PS5.
Recent updates have improved graphics rendering, shader translation, memory management and audio support, allowing several games to progress much further than before.
Silent Hill: The Short Message can now reach its menu, while PowerWash Simulator and Pac-Man World are reportedly playable, although performance and stability remain unknown.
One of the biggest milestones is the successful booting of the PS5 version of Grand Theft Auto V. While the game cannot yet be played, users can access its menus and settings, showing that increasingly complex commercial titles are beginning to function within the emulator.
GTA VI Is Still A Long Way Off
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/27b08a6ac81a5e23a7057be336d92b83f2210b97d66208fd54ea8ec94dc4dcaf" />
The progress has led some players to speculate that these emulators could eventually run Grand Theft Auto VI, which is expected to launch on consoles before arriving on PC.
However, developers and industry observers caution that there is a huge difference between reaching a game's menus and running a demanding open-world title smoothly. Fully playable PS5 emulation for blockbuster games is still likely years away.
Emulation Isn't The Same As Piracy
It's also important to distinguish emulation from piracy.
Creating or using an emulator is generally legal in many countries. However, downloading copyrighted games without owning them or distributing protected PlayStation firmware may infringe copyright laws.
Sony has previously taken legal action against projects that it believes violate its intellectual property, although emulator development itself remains lawful when it avoids using copyrighted code.
Progress Is Accelerating
Although PS5 emulation is still in its early stages, the pace of development has surprised many within the gaming community.
Most commercial games remain unplayable, but projects such as SharpEmu, KytyPS5 and research initiative RPCSX are steadily pushing the technology forward.
Whether driven by technical curiosity, game preservation or concerns over digital ownership, PS5 emulation has rapidly evolved from a niche experiment into one of the most closely watched areas of gaming development.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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PS5 games running on PC? Not quite yet, but developers are getting closer than anyone expected.

99a7354b33f6018655330e7360df78c7fc093b49072d8ae9e854fceae253dea7

PS5 Emulation Is Advancing Faster Than Expected As Developers Make Early Breakthroughs

OpenAI has officially stepped into the consumer hardware market, but its debut product isn't the long-rumoured AI companion device many were anticipating. Instead, the company has unveiled the Codex Micro, a compact mechanical macropad designed specifically for programmers using its AI coding assistant, Codex.
Developed in collaboration with keyboard maker Work Louder, the device is OpenAI's first branded piece of consumer hardware. While it won't replace your everyday keyboard, it acts as a dedicated controller that gives developers quicker access to AI-powered coding tools and workflows.
OpenAI's First Hardware Is Built For AI Coding
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9f00a4bea9c84d00a0b9c2791e8fdb3018f1d6798ef6dd42831e30fd9e5e99d2" />
Rather than creating an all-purpose AI gadget, OpenAI has focused on a niche audience: software developers.
The Codex Micro is a programmable 13-key mechanical macropad featuring a rotary dial, an analogue joystick and RGB lighting. It is designed to streamline interactions with Codex, OpenAI's AI coding assistant, allowing users to perform common tasks with dedicated physical controls instead of navigating menus or typing repeated prompts.
Among its default shortcuts are actions such as reviewing pull requests, debugging code, accepting or rejecting AI-generated suggestions and managing multiple coding sessions simultaneously.
Like most programmable macro keyboards, users can also remap every key to suit their own workflow, making the device useful beyond Codex if desired.
Physical Controls Designed Around AI Workflows
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3a4bac0b47eec5549577673ba7f9f9a90b499ba035f122ec3a2b9e69163945d2" />
One of the Codex Micro's standout features is its six illuminated "Agent Keys", which provide live visual updates on AI coding agents.
Instead of constantly checking the desktop app, users can tell what their AI is doing simply by glancing at the keypad. Different colours indicate different statuses, including:
<ul>
<li>White: Idle</li>
<li>Blue: Processing or "thinking"</li>
<li>Green: Task completed</li>
<li>Amber: Waiting for user input</li>
<li>Red: Error encountered</li>
</ul>
Tapping an Agent Key immediately switches to the corresponding Codex session, while double-tapping brings it into focus.
The rotary dial adjusts Codex's reasoning level, allowing users to choose how much computing power and time the AI spends solving a task. Meanwhile, the joystick can be assigned to navigate coding workflows or other programmable functions.
OpenAI is also including 32 interchangeable keycaps, allowing users to customise shortcuts with different icons and labels.
Compatible With Windows And Mac
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c1ff3e78b9abe30c44083ae30a4387b62f54d8eba55ac73994eb3ce6646391d8" />
The Codex Micro connects via either Bluetooth or USB-C and supports both Windows and macOS.
Buyers can also choose between silent mechanical switches or traditional clicky switches depending on personal preference.
Although the device is clearly designed around Codex, Work Louder's software allows users to create several additional programmable layers, meaning it can double as a productivity controller for other applications.
It Costs Around RM1,200 To Import Into Malaysia
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1f5d721ddd40c8c689a6210b0bdeaa9d8b951a3769b0be88f9a94690e60579d2" />
The Codex Micro is priced at US$230 (around RM950) and is currently available for pre-order through OpenAI's online Supply Co. store.
However, Malaysian buyers should expect to pay considerably more.
Shipping alone adds roughly RM300, pushing the total cost to over RM1,200 before any import duties or taxes are applied. At the time of writing, there is no indication that the keypad will be officially distributed in Malaysia.
Given the price, many online users have questioned whether a dedicated AI keypad offers enough value, especially when programmable macro pads and gaming peripherals capable of similar shortcuts are already available at lower prices.
Not The Jony Ive Device Everyone Has Been Waiting For
The launch has also surprised many because it is not the mysterious AI hardware OpenAI has been developing with former Apple design chief Jony Ive.
That separate project remains under development and is expected to be a portable, screenless AI companion designed to integrate deeply with ChatGPT. Reports suggest it could feature microphones, cameras and sensors to better understand a user's surroundings, although OpenAI has yet to officially reveal the final design.
As a result, the Codex Micro appears to be more of a limited-edition collaboration than the company's flagship hardware vision.
A Small First Step Into Consumer Hardware
OpenAI has described the Codex Micro as a limited-run collaboration with Work Louder, suggesting it is not intended to become a mass-market product.
Instead, it serves as an early glimpse into the company's broader hardware ambitions while offering a specialised accessory for developers already relying heavily on AI-assisted coding.
Whether the Codex Micro justifies its premium price will ultimately depend on how much users value having dedicated physical controls for Codex. For casual users, it may feel unnecessary, but for developers juggling multiple AI coding agents throughout the day, it could become a useful desktop companion.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Thinking of getting one? It's already out of stock, and shipping to Malaysia alone will cost you RM303.80.

7c967d1d8fe3f9a15268162979c029f9252548f3db23c3426e9dbebdf3b589ea

OpenAI Launches Its First Consumer Hardware, But It's Not The AI Gadget Everyone Was Expecting

&nbsp;Residents in Kota Damansara are raising concerns over a proposed data centre development planned near a residential neighbourhood, with many questioning not only the location of the project but also the unusually short period given to submit public objections.
The issue has gained significant attention on social media after residents claimed they were given just seven days to respond to the proposal, despite public consultations for similar developments typically allowing a longer period.
Residents Question Seven-Day Objection Window
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The proposed development came to light after the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) erected a public notice along Jalan Rimba Riang 9/6 in Section 9, Kota Damansara.
The notice states that an application has been submitted involving the surrender and re-alienation of land, along with planning permission for the construction of a commercial data centre on Lot 50900.
According to the notice, members of the public and neighbouring landowners were invited to submit objections between 9 July and 15 July &mdash; a period of just seven days.
The short consultation period immediately drew criticism from residents, who argued that it was insufficient time to understand the proposal, gather supporting information and prepare formal objections.
Several residents also claimed the notice board only appeared a few days before the submission deadline, leaving even less time for the community to respond.
Residents Encounter Problems Submitting Objections
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/47a6812670a64c655cf132915126b3efacd1eb2270477842c37395b242847d44" />
Beyond the limited timeframe, some residents alleged they experienced difficulties attempting to lodge objections online.
Several said the project reference number displayed on the notice board could not be found in the online system, while others claimed the listed contact details were unhelpful when they sought clarification.
Screenshots shared on social media appeared to show unsuccessful searches using the project's reference number, prompting further questions over the transparency of the consultation process.
Many residents have since called on MBPJ to extend the objection period so affected communities have adequate time to review the proposal and submit their concerns.
Concerns Over Building A Data Centre In A Residential Area
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/438a1035b7a114eda7f8e655bf37c379c104be870a0ed9dff1f61f1697bc139b" />
While residents acknowledge the growing importance of data centres in supporting Malaysia's expanding digital economy, many believe the proposed location is unsuitable.
The site is reportedly situated close to homes and a school, raising concerns about its long-term impact on the surrounding community.
Among the issues highlighted by residents are:
<ul>
<li>Increased traffic and heavy vehicle movements during both construction and operation.</li>
<li>Potential noise pollution from equipment that operates around the clock.</li>
<li>Heat generated by large-scale cooling systems.</li>
<li>High electricity and water consumption.</li>
<li>Road safety around nearby residential streets.</li>
<li>Whether such a facility is compatible with an established housing area.</li>
</ul>
Some residents also questioned why the development could not be built in more industrial or less densely populated locations instead.
Assemblyman Submits Formal Objection
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/2053ab009e06d77576591d9e0a857f18fd895a27ff163ad5c76358b56b1d45d0" />
Following complaints from residents and local residents' associations, Kota Damansara assemblyman Muhammad Izuan Ahmad Kasim confirmed that his office had formally submitted a petition objecting to the proposed development before the consultation period ended.
He said his office only became aware of the proposal after residents brought the matter to his attention, adding that they had not been informed beforehand.
Izuan also pledged to obtain further clarification from MBPJ regarding the planning application and approval process before determining the next steps.
On social media, he assured residents that his office would continue representing their concerns and bring objections over developments opposed by the local community to the city council for consideration.
Residents' Associations Also Voice Opposition
In addition to individual objections, a coalition of residents' associations representing several neighbourhoods in Section 9 submitted a formal letter to MBPJ urging the council to reconsider the planning application.
The associations said they were not opposed to technological development itself but stressed that large-scale infrastructure projects should be carefully evaluated when located close to residential communities.
They called for greater transparency throughout the planning process and urged the council to balance economic development with residents' quality of life, environmental sustainability and public safety.
Questions Raised Over Public Consultation Rules
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The seven-day objection period has also sparked discussion over whether it complies with Malaysia's planning regulations.
Under Section 21(6) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1976 (Act 172), adjoining landowners are generally given 21 days to submit objections for developments in areas where no local plan exists after receiving official notice.
Residents have questioned why only seven days were provided in this instance and are seeking clarification from MBPJ on the consultation timeline and the planning process.
For now, residents, local representatives and community groups are awaiting further explanations from the city council as concerns over the proposed data centre continue to grow.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Residents cry foul over the proposed development, questioning the decision to build a data centre within a housing area.

74d336db967bad8e1a6f21cb747a647276cfdd6178fec5c7639cd91b9d7049e5

Kota Damansara Residents Object To Proposed Data Centre Near Homes Over Seven-Day Consultation Period

The Malaysian government has reaffirmed its long-standing policy of not recognising Israel, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stating that any Israeli nationals found in the country will be deported immediately if investigations confirm their presence.
His remarks come amid growing scrutiny surrounding the Network School, a private technology-focused residential community operating in Forest City, Johor, following allegations that Israeli nationals may have entered Malaysia using passports from a second country.
Government Launches Investigation Into Network School
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/378109a2a4dd86d22694bc417c7e3b0d5041b70e7d00bb9bf9759b6a7cd9e9ae" />
Speaking to reporters, Anwar said the matter is being taken seriously, with multiple enforcement and security agencies conducting a thorough investigation.
He stressed that Malaysia would not compromise on issues involving national security or its foreign policy.
"We are investigating the matter, and we will not allow it. If there are Israeli nationals, since we do not recognise Israel, they will be deported immediately," he said.
The Prime Minister added that the relevant ministries and agencies are currently handling the investigation, with Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir expected to provide further clarification on the matter.
Why Is Network School Under Investigation?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/42903708833863d9ed7e4671ca411b1232fb192cb76266cb22dc3476d46546b4" />
The controversy centres on Network School, a private residential and co-working community established in Forest City in 2024 by technology investor and former Coinbase chief technology officer Balaji Srinivasan.
The community markets itself as a destination for "techno-optimists", digital entrepreneurs, engineers, creators and remote workers from around the world.
Members reportedly pay around US$1,500 (approximately RM6,100) per month, which includes accommodation, meals, co-working facilities, gym access and community programmes. The project has also promoted itself as an alternative to Silicon Valley, describing its vision as building a global technology hub outside the United States.
The development recently attracted widespread public attention after allegations surfaced online claiming that Israeli nationals with dual citizenship had entered Malaysia using passports issued by other countries to participate in the programme.
Johor Government Calls For Comprehensive Checks
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/01218e18cf4ad1168d9f76f91a3cee7bfb1708315d322dec80d3b7ab98c84632" />
The Johor state government has since urged the Home Ministry and multiple enforcement agencies to investigate the allegations thoroughly.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said authorities should verify the identities and nationalities of those staying at Network School, including whether any individuals had entered Malaysia using second-country passports.
He also called for investigations into the type of immigration passes being used, the purpose of entry into Malaysia, and whether the activities conducted at the community match the reasons declared upon arrival.
Beyond immigration matters, Onn Hafiz requested that the Higher Education Ministry, Digital Ministry and other regulatory authorities determine whether Network School requires registration or approval under Malaysian law.
He also instructed local authorities to review the project's business operations, land use, accommodation licences and compliance with local regulations, warning that any breaches should be dealt with firmly.
The Johor government said it would not allow the state to be used as a base for activities or movements that could threaten Malaysia's sovereignty or violate existing laws.
Immigration Says Documents Were Valid
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c3854fea3016f86c0d9b51751a2b397d4b0531e7d7b64d300f673e7a98dfe673" />
Amid the public debate, the Immigration Department confirmed that officers had inspected 266 foreign nationals from around 40 countries residing at the Forest City community.
According to Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban, all individuals inspected were found to possess valid travel and immigration documents.
However, he said investigations are still ongoing to determine whether there has been any misuse of identities, passports, immigration facilities or permit conditions.
It remains unclear whether any Israeli nationals were among those inspected, and authorities have yet to announce the outcome of the investigation.
Malaysia Maintains Its Position On Israeli Nationals
Malaysia does not have diplomatic relations with Israel and generally does not permit holders of Israeli passports to enter the country without special approval.
The current investigation focuses on allegations that some individuals may have entered Malaysia using passports issued by another country while also holding Israeli citizenship.
Anwar reiterated that if investigations confirm the presence of Israeli nationals in violation of Malaysia's policies, they will be deported immediately.
For now, the investigation into Network School remains ongoing, with several federal ministries, enforcement agencies and the Johor state government continuing to examine the allegations before any further action is taken.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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PMX reaffirms the government's stance on Israeli nationals, with investigations currently underway.

Malaysians Driving To Thailand Reminded To Carry Physical Driving Licence Or Risk RM121 Fine

Planning to drive to Thailand? Don't forget to bring your physical driving licence. You can obtain one at any JPJ counter for RM20.

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