Gani Patail: Mavcom needed as an independent agency to protect air travellers

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) is needed as an independent body to protect consumers and passengers when their rights are violated, says Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail.

Abdul Gani, a former member of the steering committee for aviation commission, said Mavcom is an independent self-sustaining regulator that does not in any way have an impact on the cost incurred by the Government nor its size.

“Neither the Ministry of Transport (MoT) nor the Malaysia Competition Commission offer this service, hence it is erroneous to suggest that Mavcom is taking over both these entities' roles,” he said in a statement Saturday.

He said that he read with concern recent social media posts and articles in the media that seem to be levelling “targeted false accusations” at Mavcom.

“Today, travellers who fly can rest assured be it automatic add-ons by airlines, post-purchase price increase of tickets, flight delays or even damaged baggage, you can go to Mavcom with your complaints,” he added.

Abdul Gani said complaints have to be responded to within a set timeframe of seven days and resolved within 30 days.

There is no longer a need to rely on the mercy of commercial entities or being unsure of exactly when conflicts can be resolved, he said.

He expressed confidence that consumers who have engaged Mavcom with their grouses will attest to the importance of having an independent Commission to intercede on their behalf.

“For passengers to contribute RM1 only when departing from a Malaysian airport seems like a sound investment for peace of mind.

“Moreover, passengers using the Rural Air Services (RAS) in Sabah and Sarawak are exempted from this charge.

“I cannot emphasise enough the need for Mavcom,” said Abdul Gani.