JOHOR BARU: Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has backed the decision by the Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP) to revoke the business licence of NSO Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Network School).
Network School was ordered to cease all operations in Forest City effective Wednesday (July 22).
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Onn Hafiz said the state government fully supported the decision, which was made following a special full council meeting.
He added that the move was taken in accordance with existing legal provisions after authorities reviewed inspection reports, enforcement findings and representations submitted by the company.
“The enforcement action was only taken after complaints and information were verified, inspections were conducted, non-compliance was identified and all legal processes were completed,” he said in a statement here on Tuesday (July 21).
Onn Hafiz stressed that the length of time a premise had been operating did not necessarily mean all of its activities had consistently complied with licensing conditions.
“When non-compliance is identified, action must be taken without compromise,” he said, adding that the state government would strengthen coordination among enforcement agencies to ensure any future breaches could be detected and addressed promptly.
He reiterated that Johor remained open to high-quality investments that contributed to economic growth, created jobs and supported the state’s development.
“However, no investor, company or organisation can be placed above the sovereignty of the country’s laws,” he said.
Onn Hafiz reiterated that the state government and local authorities would not compromise on any violations of the law or matters that could jeopardise national security, sovereignty or public interest.
He also urged the Home Ministry, Immigration Department, police and other relevant security agencies to continue their investigations and take stern action if offences involving the misuse of second passports, identity misrepresentation, breaches of entry conditions or other violations under Malaysian law were uncovered.
He said the matter should not be taken lightly, particularly as Johor was the country’s strategic gateway bordering Singapore, adding that any weaknesses or abuse of the immigration system must be dealt with swiftly and firmly.
Onn Hafiz also called on the Digital Ministry and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to review the company’s Malaysia Digital status or any recognition granted to it should there be any breach of the stipulated conditions or principles.
He urged all relevant agencies to tighten their due diligence processes, including background checks on ownership, funding sources, operational models and the narratives promoted by companies or organisations seeking to operate in the state.
Onn Hafiz said coordination between agencies should also be enhanced to ensure that every international investment and initiative was comprehensively assessed in terms of licensing, immigration, security, premises usage and legal compliance.
“The Johor government will continue working closely with all parties to ensure the state remains a trusted investment destination without compromising on national security, sovereignty or the rule of law,” he said.
Onn Hafiz added that the matter had been presented to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.
