PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s re-election to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council will pave the way for Malaysia to further establish its leadership in global aviation, says local airline operators.
In a joint statement on Thursday (Oct 2), Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), AirAsia, and Batik Air congratulated the government for its success with 154 votes in September this year, compared to the 136 votes it garnered in the previous re-election in 2022.
The airlines said the increase in votes for Malaysia reflected the international community’s continued trust and confidence in Malaysia’s leadership, expertise, and commitment to advancing global civil aviation
MAG Group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said the re-election reaffirmed the country’s status as a credible and respected voice in shaping the international aviation agenda.
“This success reflects the confidence of the international community in Malaysia’s ability to play an active role in guiding policy and strengthening cooperation at the highest level of civil aviation.
“MAG remains committed to supporting the country in advancing this mandate, while continuing to contribute to international collaboration that enhances resilience, innovation, and sustainable growth in global aviation,” he said in the statement.
AirAsia Aviation Group chief executive officer Bo Lingam said the re-election highlighted the world’s growing confidence in Malaysia as a champion of affordable, sustainable and inclusive connectivity.
“For AirAsia, it reinforces the role we have played in pioneering low-cost travel and positioning
Kuala Lumpur as the world’s leading low-cost carrier (LCC) Megahub.
“Together with our partners in government and industry, we will continue to elevate Malaysia’s response in shaping the future of global aviation,” he said.
Batik Air chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said Malaysia’s compelling re-election was a moment of great national pride by affirming the nation’s credibility in global aviation.
“At Batik Air, we are honoured to play an active role in this journey by connecting communities, advancing industry standards, and delivering service that reflects the very best of Malaysia.
“Let this achievement not only be a recognition of our nation’s influence internationally, but also a responsibility for all of us in the aviation sector to continue raising the bar in safety, innovation, and operational excellence,” he said.
The Transport Ministry announced that Malaysia was re-elected as a Council Member of the International Civil Aviation ICAO under Part III for the 2025-2028 term on Wednesday (Oct 1).
The re-election came after the elections and subsequent voting concluded during the 42nd ICAO General Assembly in Montreal, Canada on Sept 30.
