Expanding Horizons: Malaysia Airlines’ Commitment To Diversity With New Orang Asli Cabin Crew

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Malaysia Airlines partners with the Department of Orang Asli Development for diverse recruitment, enhancing its cabin crew and achieving top Skytrax rankings in 2024.

Malaysia Airlines is proud to welcome its first four Orang Asli cabin crew members who have successfully graduated from the Batch 1/2024 and Batch 2/2024 training programs at MAB Academy. After an intensive three-month training regimen, these cabin crew are now ready to serve on Malaysia Airlines flights.

Among the new graduates are Amyisha Nurshahira A/P Rosman from Suku Jakun, Sarah Elissa Tang A/P Aman from Suku Temuan, Veena Angelina Bte Jincis from Suku Semai, and Alzariza A/P Alwi from Suku Semai. They join 56 other graduates who completed the comprehensive training program, which included modules on grooming, public speaking, hospitality, first aid, hazardous materials handling, and aircraft familiarization, ensuring they uphold Malaysia Airlines’ high standards of service.

The graduation ceremony was held on 11 July 2024 and was graced by YBhg. Datuk Hajah Sapiah binti Dato’ Mohd Nor, the Director General for the Department of Orang Asli Development. These newly trained cabin crew members have been serving aboard Malaysia Airlines flights since 7 May 2024.

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “We are proud to welcome the first batch of cabin crew from the Orang Asli community into the Malaysia Airlines family. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within our workforce, ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of their background.

Our comprehensive training programme ensures that all cabin crew receive the highest standards of service excellence and Malaysian Hospitality, delivering personalised and premium services that prioritise the comfort and satisfaction of our customers throughout their journey with us. We are committed to enhancing the travel experience for our global passengers and ensuring they feel at home through the diverse perspectives, warmth and hospitality that shape our workforce.”

In December 2023, Malaysia Airlines, in collaboration with the Department of Orang Asli Development, initiated a recruitment drive in Pahang, Perak, and Johor, targeting various ethnic groups including Jakun, Temuan, and Semai. This effort underscores the airline’s dedication to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Malaysia Airlines will also participate in the Karnival Kerjaya Khas Untuk Orang Asli on 24 and 25 August 2024, furthering its cabin crew and cadet pilot outreach program.

In addition to its local recruitment efforts, Malaysia Airlines is actively recruiting international cabin crew to enhance diversity and provide personalized service to its global clientele. Key recruitment markets include India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

Malaysia Airlines has recently been recognized among the Top 10 World’s Best Airline Cabin Crew at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2024, climbing from its previous rank of 17th in 2023. This accolade celebrates the cabin crew’s exceptional performance in both technical skills and customer service, highlighting their professionalism, enthusiasm, and hospitality.

Moreover, Malaysia Airlines has improved its ranking among the World’s Top 100 Airlines, moving up to 39th place from 47th in 2023. This advancement reflects the growing trust and confidence in the airline. The company continues to enhance its offerings, including on-arrival lounge access for Business Suite and Enrich Platinum members, curated lounge menus, and luxury private transfer services at KLIA Terminal 1 for both departing and arriving passengers.

Onboard, passengers can enjoy upgraded amenities such as special giveaways for young travelers on selected international routes, refreshed amenity kits, enhanced soft furnishings, and revamped in-flight dining options that celebrate Malaysian and global cuisines. These enhancements emphasize Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to providing exceptional care and a superior travel experience for all passengers.