We’ll look into takeover offers for MAS, says PM

PUTRAJAYA: The government wants a thorough study on offers to turn over Malaysia Airlines Bhd to ensure its successful management, says the Prime Minister.

Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad pointed out that the national carrier had undergone several management changes in the past.

“But this has not resulted in much success. So we must find somebody with experience,” he said when approached after launching the TVET Conference 2019 yesterday.

He said the government had so far received four offers, including one from a group led by Datuk Pahamin Ab Rajab.

“Some want to buy it, some just want to manage it. We are going through all the proposals and offers. They have a lot of ideas,” he said.

To a question, Dr Mahathir said most offers came from local firms.

Asked if this meant that local firms could run Malaysia Airlines, the Prime Minis­ter replied: “They think they are capable but we have appointed many in the past. All of them proved unable to.”

Last Friday, it was reported that Pahamin, who was director-general of the Road Transport Department and non-executive chairman of AirAsia Bhd, and his five partners met the Prime Minister to express interest in helping to rejuvenate Malaysia Airlines.

The offer, through their vehicle Najah Air Sdn Bhd, has proof of funding and is looking at taking a 49% stake in the company.