PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysia Airlines (MAS) to heed lessons from its past missteps to secure a more resilient and successful future for the national carrier.

In his address at the launch of the MAB Academy and Flight Simulator Centre groundbreaking ceremony, Anwar noted the importance of good governance and a clear vision for managing the airline with diligence and trustworthiness.

“Under this Madani administration, I have repeatedly stressed good governance and the need for a clear vision and mission in managing with diligence, frugality and trustworthiness that cannot be neglected, by benefiting oneself or certain groups

“I was the finance minister then when I witnessed the moment of its potential collapse.

“Not only myself, but the then treasury secretary-general reminded me of the dangers of the transition of the Malaysia Airlines privatisation that was not transparent,” he said in his speech at the launch of MAB Academy and Flight Simulator Centre groundbreaking ceremony today.

Moreover, Anwar stressed the significance of compensating the employees who have contributed significantly to the national carrier’s development, lamenting the impact of past decisions on the company’s reputation and the well-being of its workforce.

“Now, some of the opposition members are looking down on our efforts for good governance and strict measures against corruption.

“What’s the effect of this? The country is in huge debt, MAS’ name was tarnished and staff from management, pilots and staff were all affected by not receiving the compensation they duly deserved.

“What fault did the pilots do, the flight attendants as well as the technical engineers? They did their best, but were not compensated with the salary they deserved,” he said.

Anwar commended Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and Khazanah Nasional Bhd for their efforts in turning around the airline’s fortunes, noting Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook’s continuous monitoring of the airline’s progress during Cabinet meetings.

Regarding the MAB Academy, Anwar highlighted its relocation to Sepang and the establishment of state-of-the-art training facilities, including a flight simulator center and safety training amenities. The move aims to position the academy as a comprehensive aviation and hospitality center of excellence for the region.

Present at the event were  Loke, Deputy Local Government Development Minister Aiman Athirah, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) chairman Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin and its group managing director Datuk Izham Ismail.

“Give proper focus and avoid leakages by looking at past experiences. Let’s prove to the nation, people and the international community that we will be able to raise the dignity of the company globally if it is managed accordingly.” - April 26, 2024 

https://focusmalaysia.my/anwar-urges-mas-to-learn-from-past-mistakes/