AirAsia unveils aircraft showcasing excellence, policy of meritocracy

In a salute to professional excellence, AirAsia unveiled today two aircraft with special liveries bearing images of two individuals who have contributed immensely to the growth of the airline and the propagation of AirAsia’s AllStar culture.

The aircraft, both brand new Airbus A320s, bear the likenesses of former AirAsia Chairman Dato’ Pahamin Ab. Rajab and AirAsia Chief Operating Officer Bo Lingam. The aircraft were unveiled before AirAsia staff, associates and the media.

Dato’ Sri Tony Fernandes, AirAsia Group CEO, said, “These aircraft with the special liveries convey our thanks to both Dato’ Pahamin and Bo for their generous contributions that have helped the airline grow from a fledgling Malaysian LCC to the ASEAN airline that it is now, the world’s best low-cost carrier, no less. Their contributions to the company were pivotal to the growth of the airline. I hope that with these two aircraft, we give a reminder of the value of hard work and dedication to a dream and inspire others to emulate their examples. The aircraft also showcase our commitment to excellence not just in service but in all aspects of the business, our practice of meritocracy and our support to the One Malaysia initiative.”

Dato’ Pahamin was instrumental in the successful launch of AirAsia by guiding the then new LCC as it navigated the airline industry in its early years. He joined AirAsia in 2001, and by lending to AirAsia his expertise in transportation and trade, helped steer the airline towards success. Prior to joining AirAsia, he was an Advocate and Solicitor of the High Court of Malaya, Director General of Road Transport Department at the Ministry of Transport, and Secretary-General of the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs.

Bo joined AirAsia in 2001 as Ground Operations Manager. He held various other positions in the airline, including as Regional Head of Operations, Regional Director for Guest Services and Senior Manager for Purchasing and Supplies. He helped set up AirAsia Thailand, the Bangkok-based affiliate of AirAsia Group. Bo has been instrumental in establishing high service standards across the airline’s operations and in propagating the AirAsia AllStars Culture – passionate, focused, fun, committed to service excellence – that make true the AirAsia slogan of Now everyone can fly. Bo worked his way up the corporate ladder, eventually being named Chief Operating Officer in 2010.

AirAsia strictly adheres to a policy of meritocracy, giving every employee or potential employee equal opportunity regardless of gender, race and creed. It hires and promotes employees based on skill and ability. AirAsia’s policy of meritocracy also supports the One Malaysia initiative, encouraging and allowing all Malaysians to further themselves with the company’s support.