Network School, the educational project founded by former Coinbase executive Balaji Srinivasan, is under pressure from Malaysian authorities over alleged licensing violations. At the same time, the school has signed a preliminary agreement to potentially set up a new base in Kazakhstan.
Malaysia's regulatory action
Malaysian regulators have launched an investigation into Network School's operations, claiming the program may be running without the required educational licenses. The school, which offers a mix of online and in-person instruction focused on technology and entrepreneurship, has been operating in the country for several months. Authorities have not yet issued a formal shutdown order, but the crackdown has cast uncertainty over its future in Malaysia.
Network School has not publicly commented on the allegations. The company's legal team is reportedly reviewing the claims. The Malaysian Ministry of Education declined to provide details, citing an ongoing inquiry.
Kazakhstan deal in the works
Meanwhile, Network School has secured a memorandum of understanding with Kazakhstan's government to explore establishing a campus there. The agreement, announced by Kazakh officials, is non-binding and would require further negotiations and regulatory approvals. Kazakhstan has been actively courting foreign tech and education projects as part of its digital economy push.
Srinivasan, a well-known figure in the crypto and tech world, has promoted Network School as a way to train the next generation of builders outside traditional university systems. The Kazakhstan deal suggests the project is looking for a more stable regulatory environment after the Malaysian troubles.
What happens next
It's unclear whether the Kazakhstan agreement will move forward, or if Network School will try to resolve the Malaysian licensing dispute first. The school's students and staff in Malaysia are waiting for clarity. Malaysian authorities have not set a deadline for their investigation, but the pressure is mounting.
