Two men have been arrested over a scam which duped hundreds of Malaysians into applying for nonexistent jobs as flight attendants with Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific.

Some 800 hopefuls responded to an advertisement promising salaries of US$3,000, but suspicions arose when shortlisted candidates were asked to fork over RM5,500 for registration and training.

The two men were busted after police, in the guise of job-seekers, arranged for interviews, the Star newspaper reported.

Police are now investigating to find out if more suspects are involved, the report said.

Cathay Pacific official Angela Liew confirmed that the airline was not recruiting in Malaysia.