AirAsia's hijab uniform option progressive, commendable move - minister

AirAsia’s decision to allow female cabin crew the option to wear the hijab while on duty across all flight routes starting next year is a progressive and highly commendable move, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Na’im Mokhtar.

In a statement posted on Facebook, he said the decision reflects the airline’s commitment to the principles of diversity, inclusivity and respect for the religious requirements of its Muslim employees.

“I would like to express my highest appreciation and congratulations to AirAsia for introducing a more inclusive uniform policy. I welcome and commend this mature decision by the airline’s management.

“I would also like to extend my special appreciation to the asatizah (religious teachers) and all parties involved, who have been diligently conducting discussions and continuous engagement with AirAsia,” he said.

Na’im also described the initiative as a commendable effort and a key factor in enabling the introduction of the hijab uniform option, which is expected to be implemented in the first quarter of 2026.

“I hope AirAsia’s decision will serve as an example for other corporate companies in Malaysia to remain mindful of, and supportive towards, the freedom and rights of every employee in fulfilling their religious obligations, in line with the spirit of the Federal Constitution and the values of Madani Malaysia,” he said.

Yesterday, it was reported that AirAsia had announced a reform to its cabin crew uniform policy, allowing female crew members the option to wear the hijab while on duty.

The move is in line with AirAsia’s corporate culture and reflects the ongoing evolution shaped by feedback from its workforce.

PAS lauds AirAsia

Echoing Na’im’s sentiments, PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said AirAsia’s latest decision is in tandem with the demographic reality of Malaysia, where 60 percent of the population is Muslim.

The decision, he added, also shows that the company understands the concept of freedom of religion, as guaranteed by the Federal Constitution.

“The Malaysian aviation industry should uphold standards that reflect our national identity, prioritising religious and cultural values, instead of just looking at things from the perspective of a service industry,” Tuan Ibrahim said on Facebook.

On that note, the PAS leader urged airline companies to review their stance on serving alcoholic beverages in domestic flights.

“Malaysia must consider this, in line with Islam’s position as the religion of the federation and the needs of the majority of local travellers,” he added.

- Bernama

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