I knew our national airline from the time of Rama Iyer (chairperson) and Saw Huat Lye (managing director) and it has always shown resilience and growth and came to be an airline respected by the international community, with some major airlines even seeing it as a main competitor.

MAS' trouble commenced when political interference made its ugly presence into the running of the airline, and it was when the airline became a stooge to do as it was commanded with no self-independence for its own growth and future vision.

Alas, in this process of political dominance that was seen to control its management and policies, the airline started to be seen and accepted as an unprofitable entity even though when its load factor showed very positive, encouraging and consistent growth. For your information basis, it still  is!

Its inflight service though not the best but still commendable and much better than most carriers, including some developed carriers. Its cockpit crews are second to none.

Its track record has been excellent until these two recent tragedies had occurred.

It is not wrong for its staff to feel demoralised as they have been neglected for some time, for their hard labour and dedicated service to keep the airline afloat. I think what little increase they may ask is justified in view of the current cost of living.

Consequently, the airline's future lies in a strong management team that is independent from any external political interference.  

We need MAS as our loyal national carrier which, despite of so much trouble and conflicts, has kept our flag flying high.

I see it as a goose that lays the golden eggs but just need its own way and strong management team to keep it serving us as a Malaysian pride.

I will always continue to use MAS as my first choice, no matter what!