In a historic milestone for Malaysia Airlines, four women from the Orang Asli community graduated from the airlines training academy this year, becoming the first Orang Asli cabin crew members in the airline's history. These pioneering individuals were part of a cohort of 56 cabin crew members who successfully completed a rigorous three-month training programme and began their service on Malaysia Airlines flights on May 7, 2024.
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) Group Managing Director, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, expressed immense pride in welcoming the new cabin crew members. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within our workforce, ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of their background, Izham stated in a press release on Sunday, July 14.
According to TheStar, the comprehensive training programme at Malaysia Airlines encompasses various essential skills, including public speaking, grooming, first aid, hazardous material handling, hospitality, and aircraft familiarisation. This holistic approach ensures that all cabin crew members are equipped to deliver the highest standards of service and hospitality.
We are committed to enhancing the travel experience for our global passengers and ensuring they feel at home through the diverse perspective, warmth, and hospitality that shape our workforce, Izham added.
The pioneering cabin crew members are Amisyha A/P Nurshahira Rosman from Suku Jakun, Sarah Elissa Tang A/P Aman from Suku Temuan, Veena Angelina Bte Jincis from Suku Semai, and Alzariza A/P Alwai from Suku Semai. Their graduation ceremony, held on July 11, was attended by Orang Asli Development Department (Jakoa) director-general Datuk Sapiah Dato Mohd Nor.
The journey to this milestone began in December last year when Malaysia Airlines collaborated with Jakoa on a recruitment outreach programme in Pahang, Perak, and Johor. This initiative aimed to identify and encourage potential candidates from the Orang Asli community to join the airline's workforce.
Further extending its commitment, Malaysia Airlines will participate in the upcoming Kerjaya Khas untuk Orang Asli on August 24 and 25. This event is part of the airline's broader cabin crew and cadet pilot outreach programme, designed to foster more inclusive recruitment practices and provide equal opportunities for the Orang Asli community.
The inclusion of these four women marks a significant step forward in Malaysia Airlines efforts to embrace diversity and inclusion, setting a precedent for future recruitment and workforce development. As they embark on their new roles, they bring unique perspectives and enrich the airline culture, ultimately enhancing the travel experience for passengers from around the world.
Source: The Star
