‘MAS crew uniforms the best ‘

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Airlines should keep the timeless features of its iconic kebaya uniform, said local fashion designers after Malaysia Airlines Bhd (MAS) announced a uniform redesign for cabin crew and all its divisions.

“The airline’s kebaya has timeless features. Why change something that is so classic?” said couturier Rizalman Ibrahim when contacted.

The current design, he noted, incorporates batik and beautiful Sarawakian print technique that are uniquely Malaysian.

“The uniform has such great attitude and portrays good values. It represents the Malaysian woman who is full of hospitality and sopan-santun (courteous).

“The three-quarter sleeves also add a practical element to the uniform.

“The uniform reflects the airline’s legacy and identity. Changing the uniform might confuse the people,” Rizalman said.

He added that instead of revamping the uniforms, the national carrier should introduce subtle changes in colour.

“Don’t touch the silhouette and motifs,” Rizalman cautioned, adding that those were iconic elements.

Kem Salleh said the redesign was unnecessary as MAS’ current uniform was “among the best in the world”.

“The motifs are beautiful, the colours are striking and the fabric is just great,” said the fashion designer.

He added that improving the cabin crew’s service was more important than what they wear.

Fashion design lecturer Faizal Hamid said the existing kebaya uniform was “good as it is”.

“Many designers have tried to revamp iconic designs and failed. That happens because they try to glamorise something that should have stayed timeless,” Faizal said, adding that the current MAS kebaya uniform was a symbol of pride for many Malaysians.

Meanwhile, fashion designer Silas Liew is open to the idea of a redesign but feels that elements of the kebaya must be retained.

“The kebaya is a good starting point,” Liew said.

“Being Malaysian, I will always remember the uniform. It appeals to all of us,” he said.

The colour of the current sarong kebaya uniform was last updated in 1993 from the 1986 design. The male uniform was updated in 2012.

On Tuesday, MAS announced that Datuk Seri Farah Khan, the creative director of the eponymous brand, will design new uniforms for its various departments.

The new collection is expected to be unveiled in the fourth quarter of 2016.