Some say MAS’ days are numbered, but they are wrong

may say that Malaysia Airlines Bhd’s (MAS) days are numbered, but I think we should give our all to fix it and ensure it will be well managed and can operate for future generations.

The government must set up a committee and rope in experts to give advice on how to save the airline. Among them should be members of the Malaysia Airlines Retirees Association (Masra), who have offered to help MAS.

One person who has offered help is Masra patron Tan Sri Aziz Abdul Rahman, a respected figure in the public and private sectors. He was among those involved in the setting up of MAS in the 1970s.

Malaysia has many economists, corporate figures and captains of industry who have proven their ability to turn around big organisations. We should seek their advice and knowledge.

Instead of engaging foreign experts, we should engage local experts, besides getting feedback from MAS staff, unions and passengers on how to improve.

We must remember that the industry will continue to be challenging due to competition, with supply outstripping demand, volatility in fuel prices and foreign exchange rates.

The market is also driven by leisure, not business, passengers who prefer low-cost travel and their movements are seasonal.

Like many Malaysians who have been supporting MAS all these years, I believe the national carrier can get good results if its management had the support of all parties.

We should pay tribute to MAS staff as they have always received accolades. MAS is an important policy instrument, a key economic enabler and strategic asset that shouldn’t be set aside.