Malaysia Airlines embraces diversity with Orang Asli cabin crew

Malaysia Airlines is proud to announce the successful onboarding of its first four Orang Asli cabin crew members. This historic milestone comes after 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 graduated from a rigorous three-month training programme at MAB Academy.

The programme, designed to ensure the highest standards of service excellence, covered grooming, public speaking, hospitality, first aid, hazardous materials handling, and aircraft familiarisation. The new cabin crew members, along with 52 other graduates, began serving aboard Malaysia Airlines’ flights on 7 May 2024.

The graduation ceremony held on 11 July 2024, was attended by YBhg. Datuk Hajah Sapiah binti Dato’ Mohd Nor, Director General for the Department of Orang Asli Development.

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), expressed pride in welcoming the Orang Asli cabin crew, highlighting the airline’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. “This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within our workforce, ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of their background,” said Datuk Captain Izham Ismail.

Commitment to Excellence and Future Initiatives

Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to excellence is underscored by its comprehensive training programme that ensures all cabin crew deliver personalised and premium services prioritising passenger comfort and satisfaction.

The airline’s recruitment outreach, in partnership with the Department of Orang Asli Development, began in December 2023 across Pahang, Perak, and Johor, targeting diverse ethnic groups. As part of its ongoing efforts, Malaysia Airlines will participate in the Karnival Kerjaya Khas Untuk Orang Asli on 24 and 25 August 2024, further demonstrating its dedication to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity in its workplace.

In addition to recruiting locally, Malaysia Airlines continues to enhance its workforce by hiring international cabin crew from key markets such as India, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, ensuring a diverse and personalised service for its global customers.

The airline’s efforts have been recognised with its inclusion in the Top 10 World’s Best Airline Cabin Crew at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2024, a significant improvement from its 17th position in 2023. This accolade acknowledges the cabin crew’s exceptional performance, professionalism, and warmth, contributing to the airline’s reputation for top-tier hospitality.

Furthermore, Malaysia Airlines has climbed to 39th place in the World’s Top 100 Airlines, up from 47th in 2023. The airline continues to integrate improvements across its offerings, including enhanced amenities and services. These enhancements include on-arrival lounge access for Business Suite and Enrich Platinum members, curated lounge menus, and luxury private transfer services at KLIA Terminal 1.

Onboard, passengers can enjoy upgraded amenities such as special giveaways for young travellers, refreshed amenity kits, and enhanced in-flight dining that celebrates both Malaysian and global cuisines, ensuring an exceptional travel experience.