Malaysia's decision to close Balaji Srinivasan's Network School after just two years has sparked curiosity and raised questions about the future of experimental communities. This article delves into the story, exploring the reasons behind the closure, the vision behind the Network School, and the broader implications for the concept of 'new countries' built around internet communities.
A Visionary's Venture
Balaji Srinivasan, an Indian-origin entrepreneur, scientist, and investor, founded the Network School with a grand vision. He sought to create a blueprint for a new kind of country, one built around internet communities rather than traditional nation-states. The school was designed as a stepping stone towards this broader vision, bringing together entrepreneurs, engineers, investors, and other professionals to live and work together while building technology startups.
The Network School combined elements of a startup accelerator, a residential campus, and a social experiment. Participants lived together, worked from dedicated co-working spaces, and participated in workshops and events featuring industry experts. The campus also emphasized health and fitness, offering amenities like a high-end gym and meals inspired by longevity advocate Bryan Johnson.
A Malaysian Endeavor
The school's first campus was established in Forest City, a $100 billion Chinese-developed township in the Malaysian state of Johor, near the Singapore border. The location was chosen for its sparse population, earning it the nickname of a 'ghost city'. However, the school's presence in Forest City was short-lived.
In late July 2026, local authorities ordered the project to cease operations over licensing issues. This led to the relocation of the Network School to Kazakhstan, as announced by founder Balaji Srinivasan.
Complaints and Challenges
According to the Wall Street Journal, the Network School faced complaints of moldy rooms, dead nightlife, and a skewed gender ratio with no women. These issues, familiar to Silicon Valley, cast a shadow over the school's vision.
Srinivasan responded to the allegations on X, criticizing the WSJ article as a 'hit piece' and dismissing the claims of inadequate upkeep. He pointed out that mildew is common in Southeast Asia and that the school had hundreds of women, families, and children. He also addressed the 'no nightlife' allegations, emphasizing the school's focus on self-improvement rather than partying.
Malaysia also investigated whether the campus had Israeli nationals, but no evidence was found.
A Broader Perspective
The closure of the Network School raises deeper questions about the challenges of building experimental communities. It highlights the importance of addressing local concerns and navigating complex licensing issues. The relocation to Kazakhstan suggests a determination to persevere, but it also underscores the need for careful planning and consideration of cultural and legal factors.
In my opinion, the Network School's story serves as a reminder that even the most ambitious visions require adaptability and a deep understanding of the local context. It also highlights the ongoing debate about the role of technology in shaping the future of communities and the potential for 'new countries' built around internet communities.
As the Network School evolves and adapts, it will be fascinating to see how it continues to shape the landscape of experimental living and working spaces.
