NEWS OF TODAY ~ MCA reminds MAS on it's role

DAILY EXPRESS

 

MCA reminds MAS on it's role

 

Published on: Sunday, January 15, 2012

Kota Kinabalu: Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister's Department Datuk Edward Khoo reminded Malaysia Airlines (MAS) not to forget its social responsibility to the people in Malaysia, especially in Sabah. 

He said the airline had a duty towards Sabah and Sarawak in promoting integration with the peninsula.

"MAS should also help in the development of business activities in East Malaysia, especially Sabah's tourism industry that has grown rapidly in the last 10 years. 

"As the national airline, they should not only act based on profitability," he told reporters during a Chinese New Year celebration at the Chung Hwa Kindergaten Penampang on Saturday.

In light of MAS' decision to temporarily suspend the twice-weekly KK-Osaka service from Jan. 6, thrice-weekly KK-Perth from Jan 31, four times weekly KK-Haneda from Feb. 1 and four times weekly KK-Seoul from Feb. 21 he said it is only appropriate that the airline hold discissions with the State Government. 

Khoo said if MAS only acts based on profit without regard to their social responsiblities it would be no different from other airlines in the world. 

"Perhaps it is time for Sabah to welcome other airlines to provide services on international and domestic routes. 

"The possibility of other airlines coming in Sabah can create an opportunity for a healthy business competition and it is also good for all the users.

"I strongly agree with the proposal of the Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun that Sabah Air look for a strategic partner which has expertise in running an airline." 

He hoped the issue would be solved in the near future and that the public will support the actions taken by the State Government on the issue.

"I call on MAS to re-think their business strategies in Sabah as we know all parties will always support them and if given a choice, we will choose MAS as the airline of choice," he added. 

Meanwhile, Khoo advised teachers to help pupils gain knowledge in a creative and effective manner. 

"I'm sure teachers here would be able to provide the kind of education expected, so that this kindergarten will produce excellent students in the future," he said, adding that the event will foster relations among pupils, teachers and parents in welcoming the Year of the Dragon.