A transportation expert says Malaysia Airlines needs to rethink its business plan

Following the reported loss of more than 60 maintenance professionals to a competing company controlled by Singapore Airlines, a transport consultant advised Malaysia Airlines to reconsider its whole business model.

Wan Agyl Wan Hassan stated that serious flaws in the airline's operational, legal, and strategic systems necessitated a swift and decisive response.

The loss of skilled personnel has sent shockwaves through Malaysia's aviation industry, highlighting the need for immediate action. Industry experts warn that this talent drain could have far-reaching consequences, potentially impacting the airline's operational efficiency and safety standards. The situation has also raised questions about the effectiveness of Malaysia's aviation policies and the country's ability to retain top talent in a highly competitive global market.

"Rather of reacting, Malaysia Airlines must be proactive in order to regain employee confidence, strengthen operational resilience, and maintain its strategic posture."

The government must also consider more robust protection for national carriers and reassess aviation legislation, while the airline's leadership must accept responsibility for the blunders that have resulted in the talent drain.

This incident has brought to light the delicate balance between fostering a competitive aviation industry and protecting national interests. Aviation analysts suggest that while attracting foreign investment is crucial for growth, it should not come at the cost of compromising the country's strategic assets. The Malaysian government now faces the challenge of crafting policies that can attract investment while safeguarding the interests of its national carrier and the broader aviation ecosystem.

Wan Agyl stated that Malaysia Airlines must carefully consider why its employees find SIA Engineering Company, located at Subang Airport, more appealing, and address any relevant difficulties.

He believes the airline requires a comprehensive workforce plan that includes developing a talent pipeline, increasing employee engagement, and providing opportunities for long-term career advancement. He advocated for a more comprehensive legal framework that would include bilateral agreements or industry-wide regulations to avoid systematic poaching.

Wan Agyl also stated that Malaysia Airlines should reconsider its competitive strategy, which might include pressing for stronger limitations on foreign investment in important industries.

The talent exodus has also sparked a broader debate about the future of Malaysia's aviation industry. Some industry observers argue that this could be an opportunity for Malaysia Airlines to reinvent itself, potentially through strategic partnerships or by focusing on niche markets where it can maintain a competitive edge. Others suggest that the airline might need to consider more radical restructuring measures to ensure its long-term viability in an increasingly challenging global aviation landscape.

On Sunday, Malaysia Airlines' parent company, Malaysia Aviation Group, admitted that it had lost a competent workforce as new MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) competitors, both domestic and international, joined the Malaysian market.

Wan Agyl questioned the efficiency of the Subang airport revitalization plan in light of the loss of Malaysia Airlines employees. He claimed that the Singapore company's presence in Subang, as part of this strategy, had highlighted flaws by potentially harming national aviation interests.

This position raises concerns about foreign investment resulting in a loss of strategic control, economic leakage, and conflict with Malaysia's goal of revitalizing Subang as a significant aviation hub, he stated.

The situation has also drawn attention to the broader implications for Malaysia's aerospace ambitions. The country has long harbored aspirations of becoming a major player in the global aerospace industry, with plans to develop Subang into a world-class aviation hub. However, the current challenges faced by Malaysia Airlines and the loss of skilled personnel to foreign competitors could potentially derail these plans. Industry experts stress the need for a cohesive strategy that aligns the interests of national carriers, foreign investors, and the country's long-term economic goals.

"Malaysia Airlines must take a more strong and forward-thinking approach, both legally and practically, to fix this situation."

This is more than just weathering the current storm; it is about ensuring that the national carrier emerges stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to compete in a global aviation business that is becoming increasingly competitive, he explained.