By: Yvonne Foong Ming Niang (Guest Blogger)

This article by Yvonne Foong Ming Niang extracted from http://www.yvonnefoong.com/2010/08/18/home-and-family-in-the-air/

Eddie & Co. sent mom and me to LAX last Saturday for our flight back to Malaysia.

While waiting in line at the Economy Class baggage check-in counters, we spotted Daryl Stripsky, the Malaysia Airlines ground crew at LAX coming in for work. We said our hellos and caught up a little before another ground crew waved us over and led us to a special counter next to the Golden Club counters.

Golden Club flyers still had to line up but we didn’t have to!

But that wasn’t the first time I was allowed to wait in the business class lounge. The MAS crew at LAX had been taking me there since my visit in March 2009 for the Gamma Knife Radio surgery.

In the business class lounge, I get to surf the web, reply e-mails and tell everyone on Facebook that I was heading for home!

Half an hour to departure, mom and I left the lounge and took the elevator to where boarding gates were. At this floor, another MAS ground crew spotted us. He spoke to mom briefly before leading the way. As we continued to walk ahead, he turned around and made eye contact with me, to say an extra hello. I knew then that he was aware of who we were.

Last weekend, we flew home on Economy like most times.

Even though we were seated in Economy Class, the cabin crew treated us with first class hospitality. The only tell-tale that we were in Economy was the always upright sitting position and the minimal leg space. Our blankets in Economy were woven and not duvets.

Economy Class food tastes just as good if not better. The only difference is in the way food is served. In business class, food is served with big designer plates, full-size cutleries, drinking glass, table cloths and cloth napkins.

If we want a snack in business class, we have to ask the crew, crack our brains and take a pick from the loooooooong list of choices, and then tell the crew what we want.

In Economy, the crew would suddenly and unexpectedly hand you a Magnum ice-cream sometimes. Surprise!

The attention I received in Economy Class was nothing less than what I will receive in Business Class. The crew was always willing to see what I needed whenever I pressed a button on the remote to call for attention.

In Business Class, the crew watched me with hawk’s eye. But it doesn’t mean I am treated any less without the hawk’s eye in Economy!

Once while I was flying Economy last weekend, I woke up during sleep time feeling hungry and called for attention. A steward I had seen seated at the end of the cabin earlier appeared beside me as soon as I pressed the button. He looked very concerned so I told him that I was just feeling hungry and wanted to eat something. He tried to ask me what would I like to have but I said that I couldn’t understand him and searched for my pen. He then dashed to the kitchen, dashed back and stashed two buns in individual plastic wrappers into my hands. I said that one was enough and returned the other.

It was a sardine bun. He also gave me a glass of water as requested.

He left me wondering whether they hired him just to look out for me.

I have much to thank the MAS ground crew in LAX for preparing their cabin colleagues with my background and special needs information. Because of this, the cabin crew was patient while communicating with me. Once on my return flight last weekend, a stewardess on the flight between Taipei and KLIA asked whether I needed a wheelchair upon arriving at KLIA. I said no, but she looked at me questionably and asked, “Are you sure?”

This stewardess had been looking out for me throughout the journey home and grew to empathize with the nature of my hearing impairment.

She spoke at a speed. Intonation and expression that I could pick up her words with my Auditory Brainstem Implant and understand her.

In the end, I chose to use the wheelchair and assistance because KLIA is just too huge!

My next flight to and fro the U.S. for medical reasons will be through Newark in New Jersey. I am going to miss the crew at LAX! *sob*

By: Norkhaishar Abdul Rahman (Engineering & Maintenance Division)

Di wad 6B Wad Kanak-kanak

Mama kepada Muhammad Aiman, Nor Khaishar

Kejadian itu benar-benar tidak mungkin dapat ku lupakan sehingga kini.

Peristiwa bermula pada hari Sabtu, 06 Februari 2010 di mana aku hampir kehilangan anak bongsu ku yang berumur 1 tahun 9 bulan, Muhammad Aiman. Hari itu, aku terlalu sibuk menyiapkan juadah makan tengahari, Aiman telah terlepas tanpa pengawasan sesiapa.  Aiman dijumpai terapung di kolam renang di rumahku dan tidak ku tahu sudah berapa lama dia berada disitu.

Ku lihat dia tidak bernadi, badannya biru.  Ku tak tunggu lagi, aku terus buat CPR pada anakku Aiman, tidak ku sangka tiba2 hatiku kuat untuk menyelamatkannya.  Banyak juga air yang keluar dari mulut dan hidungnya.  Ku jerit juga supaya Aiman dengar suaraku dan ku mahu dia sedar seperti menangis atau menyebut Mama.  Ku jerit lagi namanya dan ku pohon padaMu Allah Yang Maha Esa, jangan kau ambil nyawa nya lagi.  Bila ku dengar suaranya seakan menahan sakit, terus ku papah anakku ke dalam rumah. 

Dalam keadaan begini aku tak sanggup memandu.  Anak2ku telah menelefon nombor kecemasan juga menelefon suamiku.  Aiman masih lemah.  Ku harapkan Ambulan yang tiba di rumah,  rupanya Polis dan Bomba yang sampai dahulu.  Seorang anggota polis telah masuk ke rumah untuk memberi bantuan. Dengan dibaluti tuala mandi berwarna putih dan tebal, Aiman dikejarkan ke klinik berhampiran bereskotkan Polis kerana takut jalan sesak.  Setiba di klinik, doktor membantu menyelamatkan anakku.  Disedut air selagi ada dan diberi inhaler di klinik itu.  Aiman muntah air lagi.  Doktor menyumbatkan ubat di dubur Aiman supaya tidak demam dan kejang.

Ku terima panggilan telefon bimbitku, ambulan sedang dalam perjalanan mencari kami dan ku menyatakan yang kami berada di Klinik Puteri Anuar, Meru.  Setibanya Ambulan aku dan Aiman dikejarkan terus ke Hospital Besar Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Klang.  Jalanraya di Klang sesak, macamana pun kami bolos dalam kesesakan lalulintas. 

Tiba di hospital, Aiman terus dimasukkan ke Zon Merah.  Dia diberi rawatan rapi. 

Bila keadaan Aiman stabil, Aiman dimasukkan ke wad PICU, wad kanak2.  Sambil menunggu anakku, tak sudah2 ku menyalahi diriku kerana melepaskan dia tanpa perhatian sesiapa pun.  Adik-beradikku datang menenangkanku.  Berdering2 telefon bimbit ku berbunyi.  Asal ku jawab, ku minta pada semua supaya mendoakan anakku selamat dan cepat sembuh.  Semasa menunggu anakku sedar, setiap kali ku terbayang kejadian itu, macamana ku buat CPR padanya di tepi kolam itu, aku menangis sendirian.  Doktor yang merawat anakku menyuruhku pergi berjalan2 bagi menenangkan fikiran.

Tepat jam 9 malam pada hari yang sama, Aiman tersedar lalu terus duduk di atas katil.  Aku terkejut, segala wayar yang melekat ditubuhnya, dicabutnya sendiri.  Dia rimas. Untuk aku memastikan yang Aiman masih ingat padaku, ku cuba test ingatan nya, lalu ku nyanyikan satu lagu yang biasa kita nyanyi bersama dan ku ingin dia menjawabnya.  Lagunya berbunyi begini `Satu, satu saya sayang... MAMA’ itulah jawapan Aiman (MAMA)’.  Ku terus peluk Aiman sambil menitis airmata sebab dia menyebut MAMA sambil ketawa.  Lega betul hatiku, doktor yang berada disitu turut gembira.  Aku bersyukur padamu Ya Allah, Kau tak pernah menghampakan permintaanku.

Dan malam itu, Aiman susah nak tidur sebab lampu di bilik PICU terang benderang dan dia asyik mengajakku bermain dengannya.  Oleh kerana Aiman tidur dengan lasaknya, jururawat hospital menyuruhku tidur bersamanya.  Entah pukul berapa aku terlena dengan Aiman dalam dakapan ku di atas katil yang sama.

Aiman telah dipindahkan ke wad 6B, yakni wad kanak-kanak.  Alhamdulillah anakku dijaga oleh ramai jururawat pelatih yang muda-muda yang sanggup melayan kerenahnya.  Sementara menunggu keputusan makmal, aku terpaksa tinggal lagi di hospital bersama Aiman sehingga hari Selasa.  Alhamdulillah, keputusan makmal sudah diperolehi dan Aiman tidak mendapat apa-apa jangkitan kuman di paru-parunya dan kami dibenarkan pulang pada petang hari Selasa, 09 Februari 2010.

Sesampai di rumah, terus terfikir di fikiranku, jangan ada tadahan air dalam baldi di bilik air dan pintu bilik air di rumah juga mesti sentiasa tertutup selepas menggunakannya.  Suamiku terpaksa menambah pengadang bagi menghalang Aiman keluar dari rumah.  Anakku sekecil ini, yang tahu hanya suka dengan air.  Sebagai peringatan pada semua seisi rumah, biar ku bising mulut agar semuanya sentiasa ingat yang kita ada si comel dirumah dan sentiasa awas selalu.

Aku amat bersyukur kerana diberi peluang menyertai kursus Basic First Aid. Dari apa yang aku pelajari aku telah dapat menggunakan taktik2 yang dipelajari untuk menyelamatkan nyawa anakku sendiri.  Terima kasih kepada semua tenaga pengajar di Malaysia Airlines Academy.  Kursus ini tidak semestinya diberi kepada Cabin Crew sahaja, malah Ground staff juga patut mempelajarinya.  Supaya kalian akan adakan lagi refresher course untuk semua kakitangan di Malaysia Airlines.  Kemalangan boleh berlaku bukan sahaja di tempat kerja sahaja malah di mana-mana juga dan kita harus waspada selalu.

Pada masa lapang, saya belajar berenang di kolam renang di rumah dan sekurang-kurangnya saya tahu menggunakan taktik CPR. Setakat ini,  saya belum lagi menempuh apa-apa kejadian yang memerlukan saya memberi bantuan First Aid pada kakitangan disini.  Dan seandainya berlaku dan sekiranya saya berada disitu, saya pasti akan membantu.

Sekian.

By: Keith Kueh (Malaysia Airlines Engineering Training Centre (METC) 

Looking into the mirror deeply, back in the olden days, I was introduced to aircraft by a very peculiar way. As opposed to the typical phrases where many parents used to teach their kids on ABC, where A is for Apple, the first alphabet I knew was A for Aeroplane. By the age of three, when I have the intellectuality to understand by visual and acoustic, Dad spoke to me a lot about airplanes. He started off with simple and easy methodology…

I recalled,

Occasionally in the evening, whenever he was not working, he would drive me in his creamy white Toyota car to the airport. He parked his car beside the road, overlooking the long runway; holding me tight around his broad arms, whispering softly into my ears, “Son, this is an aeroplane, and this is where your destiny begins.” The joy of seeing the aeroplane taking off with its wheels departing from the ground was overwhelming, even though it was just a split moment. Innocently, my eyes stared closely to the aeroplane until it disappeared behind the cloud. As I grew up, I developed deep interest in aeroplane, as if there was as strong bond and fondness between us.

I recalled,

When Malaysia Airlines (MAS) did modification to its B747 fleet into freighter aircraft, I was one of the very few who had an opportunity to attend the exhibition when it made its maiden flight to Kuching International Airport. I was rather shocked and amazed; for this was my first time to see such a huge aeroplane. I asked Dad, “Why this aeroplane so big and has four engines?” He replied me with a joking tone, “Because it is a Daddy aeroplane”. Nevertheless, I was very excited that I jumped in a cloud nine.

I recalled,

When I was in Standard Three, my foster father’s son, Augustine had been offered by MAS to study Aircraft Maintenance Engineering as an Apprentice. As a father who wants the best for his child, he harbored a dream for me to emulate Augustine’s footsteps. He told me from time to time, “Son, study hard, and hopefully next time, you could enter this programme too”. Being a typical kid who was so eager to play, I had never really appreciated Dad’s advice till one day; teacher in school gave an essay with the title, “My Ambition” to be. I was totally lost and with a blanked face, I could not pen down any single word. From that moment, I remembered what Dad have been telling me all this while; and I found my direction to sketch out an essay, entitled, “My ambition is to be an Aircraft Engineer”. I began to understand the importance of education; I started to love Physics and Mathematics. However, to master these subjects in hands was quite an uphill task, but there was always this inspiration that drove me through.

I recalled,

Every time, Dad comes back from work, I saw this kind of weary look in his eyes. Being a line technician in Kuching International Airport, he has to cope with his circadian rhythm to work shift hour, either in the early dwell hour of 430am or as late as 12 o’clock in the midnight. Furthermore, he has to cope with the extremes of ferocious weather; sometimes in got-scotching sun, sometimes in heavy downpour, and for years, he never breathes any single word of complaints to his family. I was touched and moved by Dad’s sacrifices to work till his bones’ end just to fill our empty stomach, but, as the same time, somewhere in my heart, I felt needles of pain; more toward to a sense of guilt for being a spoilt kid. I made a promise to study hard to succeed one day in order to ease Dad’s burden off his shoulders.

I recalled,

After SPM, I submitted my application to MAS for the Trainee Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (TAME) programme. I was called for an Aptitude Test, however, luck was not on my side; I did not get through. Hugely disappointed and broken-hearted, I isolated myself miserably in room. Dad came in, tapped me gently on my head, saying, “Son, don’t give up, there will be another chance for you. I am sure, there will …” Dad was right, he never lie to me. A year later, I got another shot after submitting my second application. I got through every obstacle up till the day of interview.

I recalled,

A day before interview, Dad thought me about Basic Engineering tools (multi-grip pliers, mallets, screwdrivers, etc) and some basics on aircraft’s systems. Indeed, I felt relaxed and confident while facing the panel of interviewers. They were impressed with my performance, and I left the room with a broad smile on my face. Dad has never abandoned me throughout the journey; he is always by my side to cheer me up and supporting me endlessly.

Today,

I am part of MAS big family. I have been accepted into Malaysia Airlines Engineering Training Centre (METC) for the TAME programme. Everyday, aircrafts such as ATR 72, B737 and sometimes A330 fly over my head. Again, I recalled Dad’s words back in twenty years ago. His words have brought me thus far in my life, shaping my inner self and molding me into a better person. His word of wisdom is still ringing in my ear; I will always remember them forever. Coming into the third year of training, I hope to obtain my certificate and licenses soon as a present to my Dad. I want to make him the happiest Dad in the world. One day, I hope to be linked up with my Dad in working area; the excitement of releasing the aircraft into service together through the co-operation of a father and a son will be a sweet memory to remember …

By: Su Wong (Media Relations, Communications Division)

The atmosphere at Tun Rahah's residence

Tun Rahah in a cheery mood

Tun Rahah with Toh Puan Norella Talib

Ever wondered what families of famous people do when they have dinner? Well, at Tun Rahah’s Wednesday Dinners, they eat, laugh and have good fun as they enjoy each other’s company.

Just like a regular family really.

Chef Zuddin & Chef Tom

This was the scenario which greeted the team comprising mainly of MAS chefs and LSGB Skychefs at Tun Rahah’s residence at Jalan Eaton last Wednesday. We found out that the late Tun Razak started the concept of dinners on Wednesday to ensure the family met to have a meal together at least once a week.

Nazif Najib

Nizar Najib with Nabeel

Putri Norliza

Nur Sharmila, wife of Nizar with elder son Nadeem

Zeila Junid, wife of Johari

To this day, the family of Tun Razak has continued with this heart-warming tradition.

So why exactly were we there? In conjunction with the Tun Razak menu introduction, we had sought the advice and guidance of Tun Rahah. This was to ensure the authenticity of the meals. On this night, we were at Tun’s residence for what the chefs term a “food sensory” session, more commonly known in laymen language as food “tasting”.

By: David Rajkumar Subramaniam (Marketing Malaysia & Asean) & Pauline Chang Sui Ching (Customer Response Unit)

Me & my wife - We are the 2nd generation

In the same batch during Management Trainee

David Raj's story - Husband

My dad told me that the first object I drew as a kid was an airplane. That by itself is a statement of how the airline industry was close to my heart. Always thought that I’d end up a pilot but; even better, I’ve achieved the dream of travelling around the globe being chauffeured by a pilot. That fills the bottom half of my face with a smile.

I had always been travelling as a kid coz my dad was an airliner with Malaysia Airlines (MAS). He’s been in airline sales ever since I could remember. Every get-together & occasion (including birthdays & Christmas parties) was airline related, as 80% of the crowd would be from MAS. They were always talking about MAS financial status, office politics, staff movements, promotions etc., and this scenario is repetitive every single time they get together. I never knew that, I’ll one day be part of this herd of airline ‘enthusiast’. I now realize that the word ‘Malaysia Airlines’ was literally embedded in my subconscious memory as a kid, not knowing how much it’ll mean to me in the near future.

Malaysia Airlines started as a brand to me and now is the most important thing in my life next to my family. I’ve served MAS for 5 years now & have not regretted the least bit. It paid for my food, my education, my life & my passion. In addition, it has now brought me the love of my life. Yes, I met my wife at MAS when I joined as a management trainee in 2004. We were of the same batch and we hooked it on only after 03 months not knowing that we’ll be walking down the aisle after 04 years. To make things more related, my wife’s father is also with MAS. He’s been our faithful airline engineer for more than 30 good years. Both our dads are still up and running, and committed in serving MAS. I now work with my dads colleagues and on some occurrences, even attend the same meetings with my dad “Weird.”

Many have said that MAS is the abbreviation for ‘Mesti Ada Saudara’ and I strongly support that, as I myself have 08 relations in the company besides the other 19,000 employees whom I feel are like my brothers & sisters. This…, shall represent the longevity of the OneMH spirit.

Pauline Chang's story - Wife

Growing up, I thought MAS consisted of only 3 departments, the check-in counter, cabin crew/pilots and of course last but not least engineering. Yeah, you guessed it, dad was in Engineering and Maintenance department, and that was all he ever talked about. He started in 1974 after his graduation and is still there, after all these years. The only event and function I’ve ever attended that was related to MAS was of course, E&M family days and annual dinners, simulator visits and of course visits to the hangar. Ha! Ha! Ha!

After my secondary studies, dad tried to persuade me to join MAS as an Apprentice Engineer in MAS, but I had other ideas, and went with my own choice of studies. After I graduate, I panicked... oh no! I couldn’t anymore enjoy my precious flight tickets that I previously enjoyed under my dads entitlement! My dad then asked me to join MAS as a cabin crew for experience and also because he knows I enjoy travelling so much. But as I knew I was too...ehem... vertically challenged for the job, I decided to save myself the embarrassment of being turned away at first sight!

When again my dad presented me with another opportunity to join MAS, this time as a Management Trainee, I did not hesitate...in fact, now after 5 years in MAS, I think it was the best move I’ve ever made in my life! Let me tell you why... not only I’ve been successful in my career in MAS, even my personal life has changed drastically for the better... I met my partner in life, my husband, in MAS, who was also a Management Trainee in my batch. We dated for 4 years, this year we got married, and we are expecting our first baby boy end of the year. Another amazing thing is, my husband is also a second generation MAS staff, and his dad is still working in MAS. So I’ve got my dad, husband and father-in-law in MAS!

By: Raphael Michael (Airport Operations)

Me, a long time ago

Me (top) and Romuald Michael (middle) and uncle Susai Anthony Muthu (bottom) 

I cannot recall the exact moment I came to know Malaysia Airlines but ever since I can remember Malaysia Airlines or MAS as it is fondly known even to this day at home is the household subject. Not a day will go by without a reference being made about MAS.

Both my uncles Daniel and Susai were working for MAS at that time and it was they who portrayed MAS in such a positive and vibrant way. I loved planes and knowing my uncles were associated with planes was very interesting. Uncle Susai was my role model and my siblings and I would be happily waiting for every school holiday for Uncle Susai to send us train tickets for the school holidays. We lived in Skudai and life was not very easy as my father was working as a security guard and with the high cost of living in Johor Bahru and 6 of us to feed. Things that most other teenagers would take for granted meant the world to my siblings and me. During the holidays, I’ll accompany Uncle Susai to the airport, he'll give me RM10 to have something at the KFC and wait till he finishes his shift. I wasn't bored even a bit as I loved planes. Looking at the check-in staff I would think to myself what a glamorous job this is. All these events in my life created in me a very strong bond with MAS day by day.

During the economy downturn in 1998, I did not want to burden Uncle Susai and Aunt Joanne any further to support my studies and I told Uncle Susai to let me know if there is a vacancy in MAS.  My brother Romuald had just finished his SPM and he too wanted to get a job. We sent in our resumes and it was not long before we were called for an interview. It happened that Romuald and me were both in the same interview room.  Both of us felt very excited but we were not in the least nervous as we were very comfortable being in an MAS environment. We managed to impress the interviewers with the information we knew about MAS affairs and both of us were appointed.

My first day was at the brand new Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Lost and Found Unit. My first assignment was to feed a pigeon and rush tag it to Surabaya.

Today after loyally serving MAS for the past 11 years, I feel the same excitement and enthusiasm that was in me when I first joined MAS. MAS have directly or indirectly through my uncle Susai's actions played a significant role in the person I am today. I truly appreciate the gift of MAS in my life.

In these challenging times in the airline industry, it is a time to give back. I will surely wade through these rough waters with my beloved Malaysia Airlines. Knowing with belief that we will come out soaring to even greater heights.

By: Nik Eliana Elizzia Nik Mohamed (Cargo Operations, MASKargo)

It was a privilege to be able to benefit the perks of the company when growing up with memories to be cherished a lifetime. The love of the company started even before I joined Malaysia Airlines.

Growing up I would remember attending the company’s family day, dinner functions and also courses. One of the events that I still remembered of was having pulled out to the dance floor at a dinner function. Now I know why I don’t dance, I was like screaming and kicking refuse to go to the dance floor.

However, one of the fond memories with the company was when I fell in love with the outdoors thru MAS organized kid’s camp. Yeah, I love the jungle, the obstacle course and crush on the instructor. And then there was courses conducted during school holidays at the MAS academy; having attended few such as grooming courses and discover yourself (I didn’t know I was lost!). It was good as we get to meet other staff kids and so were the stewards at the academy. Good eye cleansing!

Another thing that I would remember was spending weekends following my mother to the office. I would be at awe looking at the aircraft models in the boss office and yes I did my homework there. I have never dreamed that one day I will be joining the company until I heard of an opening at MAS as Management Trainee.

Being a child of MAS, I’ve heard lots of stories during it’s hey days of MAS and also during the troubled times. But one thing for sure what I’ve learned is how fast news spread in MAS.

First day reporting as Management Trainee, I was a bit nervous as everyone would know who I am and watching how I am. I felt like I have to be careful on what I say or do knowing how things spread in MAS. I’ve heard a lot said about me and sadly but true I did taste the bitterness of being a child of MAS. Nope I did not break any company rules or anything like that. It was just one day where I let my guard down and yes it was reported and spread very nicely. I never saw it coming but live goes on and face it head on.

I thought things would be eased when I and together with other trainees was assigned to MASkargo.

The first day at MASkargo Operations, I had a shock of my life when we joined the staff meeting. Talk about memorable first impression; boy it was definitely a memorable one! If only my legs were not wobbly, I would have run out of the room screaming ‘Save Me!’ instead after the meeting it was like ‘We’re dead!’

It had been 6 years after that day and the last four years was challenging but was fulfilling as well. An experience I will not trade with anything else.

As we are wading thru another difficult times and hoping to see the company survives another storm and we can get thru this as we have done before.

By: Mona Maria (Inflight Services – Cabin Crew Line Operations)

It was on my flight back from London, I met a passenger, who while boarding, asked if she could change her seat. She wanted to be by herself, she said, as she was travelling under compassionate circumstances. We moved her, and as she was in Economy, and I was working in First Class, I didn’t see her until much later.Yesterday, on my flight back from London, I met a passenger, who while boarding, asked if she could change her seat. She wanted to be by herself, she said, as she was travelling under compassionate circumstances. We moved her, and as she was in Economy, and I was working in First Class, I didn't see her until much later.

I found her sitting by herself, and she looked tired and strained. She's Malaysian, but works and lives in the UK. She'd just come back from her holiday in Malaysia the day before and received news that her father had passed away after she left. So she took the next flight and was now on her way for his funeral in Penang.

Losing a parent is never easy. This is the person that loves you unconditionally. This is the person, who always has faith in you; who will stand by you through your hard times and who will consistently hope and pray for your well-being. As you get older, you get absorbed in life and they become like background music; it's there, part of the story, you don't really listen to it, but when it suddenly stops, the silence is deafening and the story now doesn't seem as interesting anymore.

I didn't know what to say to her. I just held her hand while she cried some, and expressed her regret at what she could've done and should've done. He was 89, lived a fulfilled life, saw all his children lead good lives and had many, many good years. Still, while we accept that all that lives will die eventually, we can't easily accept that the parents who gave us life and taught us all that we know and were there first, are the ones who will go first.

When I gave her a hug as she disembarked, I was conveying my condolences as well as hoping that she is given strength and faith during this time, and that she will find joy in the fond memories of her beloved father. I also hoped that I will be spared this heartbreaking experience in my life's
journey for as long as possible.

Travel safe...
CSS Mona

11 Responses to “Closing Chapters”
 

• Mona Maria says:

Hey guys!
Wow..amazing response to our Cabin Crew articles! Unfortunately, as there are too many queries, and most of them are rather similar in nature, I’d like to beg your indulgence and allow me to reply in general and I will try to be exact, ok?

Cabin Crew interviews are advertized in ALL MAJOR DAILIES. You may also check out our website and browse thru the “CAREER” sect to see latest intake dates.

Now, I come to the most difficult part; please understand that I offer only my opinion and this MUST not be misconstrued as a fact. And some of you may have written in earlier, but I was unable to get back to you as I have been flying.

This is for you guys who did not make it after the final interview. I haven’t the slightest doubt that you prepared well for it. And of course you deserve to get it. But how do we convince someone else that? Sometimes what we know as our qualities may not neccesarily be what an employer is looking for. The same goes for our perceived weaknesses; an employer may feel that it can be improved and eventually become a strength.

I truly empathize with your obvious disappointment and frustration. I can only offer my best wishes and hope that you will face this obstacle in your search for a career path with integrity and faith that you WILL fare better next time.

I know some of you who wrote in were really upset with the way things went. Do you guys believe in silver linings? Maybe it’s not meant to be, that you could be better suited for other careers? Or that this setback will make you even more determined and your luck will pull through next time?

Whatever you decide, don’t give up. There’s a saying, “One door closes, another one opens..”

CSS Mona

January 6th, 2009 at 12:36 pm

• Erdal says:

Hello Mona,

I just sent you this E-Mail because i work for airline too but i just want to know how to make friends and contact with malaysia airlines staff and others compagny.

Im single and i work in PARIS

I dont if have some website or offial blog for airlines staff malaysia, cathay pacific, japan airlines, singapore airlines Etc…

If you know let me know

Thanks for your help

January 7th, 2009 at 1:51 pm

• Mona Maria says:

Hi Erdal..
Thank you for checking out our blog. As you may already know, this is our official airline employee blogsite. I expect other airlines have their employee blogsites too; I know Air Asia does.
However, I should think like ours, most airline official blogsites are moderated, to keep out negative elements. It’s a crazy world out there!!
Another avenue you might want to try is Facebook, I know a number of our crew members are in there.

Good luck, and travel safe!

January 10th, 2009 at 8:44 am

• Erdal says:

Hello Mona

Thank you so much for your reply. This is blog for malaysia airlines staff but how to make friends and to have contact with crew members and others ?
If you know numbers of some crew members or ground staff. It will be nice…About me, im single and i live in PARIS and working for airline. If you want my E-Mail (let me know) we can chat or give answer about all my questions.

Thanks and take care

January 11th, 2009 at 9:10 pm

• Mona Maria says:

Bonjour Erdal,
I’m not at liberty to disclose any info on our staff, as we treat personal info with th highest confidentiality. However, like I said before, do check out Facebook, lots of our crew are in there!
As we are a fun-loving bunch, I’m sure you’ll make lots of friends!

Travel safe..

January 13th, 2009 at 9:03 am
 

• Mona Maria says:

Hi Meiyee,
If you are selected you will undergo intensive training at our academy.

Hey Len,
Welcome to our blogsite! Yup, we do Crew Performance Assesment here too. It’s bi-annual, and it is mandatory for every crewmember to be checked and rated to facilitate our KPIs.

I hope this helps..
Keep reading our blogs, ok, it’s an insight to our working culture too!
Cheers

January 13th, 2009 at 10:46 am
 

• luis says:

Hi,
I am looking for a long lost family member by the name of “Boy” Munne ( Rodolfo Munne?). He was last reported working as a ground crew/ mechanic for an airline, based in Malaysia ( airline name?). Boy is a Filipino by citizenship and ethnicity.He is married to Pam. His son is desperately looking and longing for him. He(the son) will graduate from elementary school this March 09. He will be 14 y/o this May 09. Any information about Boy will be much appreciated.

Salamat/thank you,
luis aquino
homestead ,fl, usa

PS:
His son lives in the same address and still carries the same phone # in the Philippines.

February 1st, 2009 at 5:47 pm
 

• Firdaus says:

Mona Mona Mona owhhh i’m sooo sorry if my question here is going to make you “cuckoo banana’s” hehehe …

it is 5th of Feb 2009 now, i missed the January Interviews done recently owhhh how sad yah? so my Million Dollar question is here hehehe …

“will there be another interview conducted within these upcoming 3 months ???”

really3x wanna be a Flight Attendant ASAP!
and i mean it!
=)

February 5th, 2009 at 9:50 am
 

• asma says:

hi mona maria
start from 13 years old my brain always thinking whatever i do i just want be a stewardess.but i have a problem with my SPM result including english subject.but i can speak fluent in english and bahasa malaysia.so how can i be a stewardess.what should i do.
second,u know anything about DIAN TOURISM INSTITUTE or TRANSAIR
can i get ur opinion mona maria what i must to do or just forget it.

March 10th, 2009 at 4:43 am
 

• dona says:

i glad to read your comment on how the life of the cabin crew…. it full with travelling all around the world… actually, sometimes i also travel by mas… and the cabin crews were so impressive and caring… but there still a certain group crew with low grooming…. especially an indian man during by flight back from sabah to kl…. through the flight transit from japam (mh81)

March 23rd, 2009 at 2:01 pm

• Ex-Boyfriend says:

This is very up-to-date information. I’ll share it on Delicious.

April 9th, 2009 at 6:58 pm

By: Wong Li Yin (Operations Control Centre)

The computers buzzing at the Operations Control Center assumed an unusually quiet presence – had they assume a life of their own, such a disposition would have indicated a probing curiosity about the merry OCC Chess Class that was organized by the OCC Chess Club on Saturday, 30 August 2008.

The usual lull of the workplace was broken by sunny trickles of laughter from eight young children aged from five to fifteen, all of whom were specially invited to take part in the session. Wide-eyed and looking thrilled to be visiting the office and seeing jumbo airplanes painting a majestic backdrop against the Flight Management Building, they were ushered into the meeting room together by their parents. Introduction was not hard; the children quickly broke the ice and started mingling with each other as soon as the excitement of being a part of the event began spreading among them and everyone else that was present.

The objective of organizing the OCC Chess Class was a direct one – the idea of having the club members bringing their family to participate in the event was to strengthen rapport in the club besides encouraging the young ones to learn positively through fun games. Being members of the OCC Club has brought more meaning than just being a component contributing to the whole body – more often than not, it meant cooperating and lending a hand to each other that creates a mutual sense of sharing and common bond.

The class kicked off with a morning break in which everyone was briefed of the event by En. Yusra. Some of the children were shy and appeared bashful upon the initial introduction, but with supportive encouragement, they made an effort to approach one another and were soon interacting enthusiastically. The children grew comfortable with each other after a short while, and the occasion suddenly felt more like a group of old friends attending a reunion gathering rather than new ones meeting and making friends for the first time! Talk about being fast friends!

With the guidance of their mentor-of-the-day, Mr. Lee who is an avid fan of chess himself, the children were given chess tips and games to practice during the class. Some of them appeared to have an apparent talent, and generally the children were eager to learn and enjoyed their practices. Lunch was welcomed after a few rounds of game, with everyone tucking heartily into delicious chicken drumsticks from Kentucky Fried Chicken. The children had a better bearing with their chessboards after lunch. It made the occasion brighter to see the children ended their final practice of the class with a glowing satisfaction of mastering the board game.

At the end of the day, the club felt that the objective was fulfilled with an unexpected gain – throughout the event, the members related to each other not just as colleagues, but also like family members as they assisted and gave encouragement among themselves during the class. It was heartening to see the children enjoyed and gained valuable experience within such an atmosphere. Somehow it boosted the confidence of the club to continue organizing happy functions like this in order to keep on forging closer ties.

The computers resumed their usual buzz afterwards – possibly with a slightly regretful tone to be missing all that fun at the class. The OCC, however, resumed their usual routine with brighter smiles on their faces – and a definite interest to look forward to the next gathering!

By: Captain Nik Huzlan (Hajj & Charter)

The STAR, 23rd January 2007

It all began.......

Little did I know what was in store for me and my crew 24 hours after I finished a drive to Awana with the Smartcarsmalaysia forummers, from a website I help moderate.

Sunday was a wet gloomy day as about 7 Smarts and an assortment of other cars met at Petronas Damansara for a fun drive onto the twisty roads of Awana. I actually pushed my BMW R1100S Boxercup Superbike out but saw the gloomy skies and decided to drive my Smart Brabus instead. Although it was a wet morning, I did see a few (hardcore) bikers buddies up Awana that day.

- Awana Sunday 21st Jan -

After reaching home that afternoon, I went about packing my bags for a short one day stay at Beirut, Lebanon, a rest stop planned after dropping of 270 Malaysian Peacekeepers. Normally i do not follow Charter Flights that I organise, but due to the value of the contract and the flight being the first of the many in the Long Term agreement it was decided that I should accompany the B744.

Before that……

Negotiations for the flight began five weeks ago, after UN approval was obtained for Malaysia to send a contingent of our Peacekeepers to Beirut. Having agreed with the pricing and schedule, we sealed the contract, and I got the MasCharter team cracking getting all sorts of approvals necessary for the organization of the flight. A B747-400 with a capacity of 380 seats ( 9M-MPK) was identified for the non-stop 10 hour flight from Subang Air Force Base to Beirut. Armand (Charter Photo Journo) was assigned photo duties while Ariv ( part time Videographer and Military enthusiast) was appointed the video hack. A crew of 14 Stewardesses along with one Chief was selected, together with three pilots, one loadmaster and a travelling aircraft engineer. Weapons and munitions were packed in accordance to the UN/ICAO DG requirements, busses were booked to ferry the troops from the KUA base to SZB and overnight hotel were also arranged for them.

The week before, we ferried a batch of 88 peacekeepers on the scheduled MH flight, upgrading the A330 to B744 to accommodate the Military Cargo.

We also arranged catering and tenting facilities for the families to send off their loved ones. Having been told that DPM will be sending the troops off, VVIP catering was also organised. Our trusted caterer, LSG Skychef was roped in for this purpose.

Cargo Loading

Cargo loading commenced that Sunday evening with a convoy of Army trucks heading into the MAS cargo complex, dropping of the necessary equipment and rations. The aircraft was then flown to Subang from KLIA to depart at the stipulated hour.

- The Business Class Cabin as prepared for the Peacekeepers -

On arrival Subang a MAS Security personnel was assigned to guard the aircraft

Goodbyes being said…..

Monday morning found me at the base, looking at touching scenes of the Armed Forces members saying goodbye to their beloved families knowing that they will not be meeting them for at least 6 months. The soldiers with their families.

Touching scenes of a one year old who wouldn't want to let his beloved dad go....

Of formalities of departure…….

Rollcall commenced at 0630 and the soldiers took their  boarding passes and went through the immigration, customs and security formalities.

As the families await for a final goodbye……

The Deputy Prime Minister / Defence Minister says Goodbye to his Troops.

The DPM decided to come aboard the aircraft for a last goodbye to his troop, and walked around the cabin.

As the steps are being withdrawn little Ashraf  points to the aircraft his dad is on board……

By: John Low (Group IT) 

A week before Christmas 2007, I brought my 3 year old daughter, Caitlin, to Sydney so that we could celebrate with her Mummee. Yes, I flew with a 3 yr old alone!

She’s been to Sydney once before when she was 2. So for this trip, she still remembered the whole experience of the journey (which is what airlines should pay attention to! It’s not just the flight that customers remember- it’s the whole experience of the journey!)

So how did I prepare for the journey?

Prepare ahead

If you can help it, book an overnight flight. MAS flies to Sydney twice a day- once each during the day and night. What follows will explain why.

Deprive them of sleep

To this day Caitlin still takes afternoon naps. On the day of the (night) flight, immerse them in activities during the day so that they don’t have a chance for the nap. What follows will explain why.

Check-in early

Get a window seat. Box the toddler in so that they cannot just unbuckle & already be on the aisle.

Hopefully there isn’t going to be a send-off party for your journey. Because checking-in early also allows you the time for airport terminal exploration. And do explore: The retailers, the facilities, especially if there are glass elevators in your terminal. It’s amazing how many times toddlers like to ride glass elevators. Caitlin kept exclaiming “whoooaaaa” everytime it was going up / down; the tourists in the same lift would find it funny the first time, but of course at the 100th time for Daddee, it had lost its cuteness.

What follows will explain why check-in early.

Don’t sit down, keep moving

This is crucial to the above points. What follows will explain why.

Don’t enter the boarding gate till you have to

This supports the above point. Once you enter the gate, you have nowhere to go but to sit down.

Be the first ones to board the plane

Two groups of passengers can board early (rather than board according to your seating numbers): Those who can afford first & business class, and those with kids.

Boarding early allows for quicker settling-down. Being the first ones on also allows the crew to notice & make mental notes of you & the toddler. This makes it easier to ask for toddler-favours!

Now, the why if you haven’t already figured it out

S L E E E E E E E P

If you can, arrange for toddler to stretch out

Of course this is quite difficult on full flights. But once the plane starts taxiing, scout around for empty seats to possibly move to. Caitlin is already over 3 feet tall, it will make her sleep a lot easier.

I did all the above on both flights to & from Sydney; where I also managed some snaps of her with the Christmas tree in KLIA.

She was quite full of anticipation & excitement. This started a few days before when Daddee started creating the buzz. The adventure starts when she starts getting dressed ready for the airport and the flight. “I am going to Australia“, she would tell everyone. The experience then includes the KLIA Express train ride to the international airport. She’s always loved train rides. Arriving inside the massive structure of the airport, the checking-in, another short ride to the satelites, are all mini-adventures of running around & ahead of Daddee on this great journey. Oh, the travelator also makes for interesting if not somewhat exhausting-for-the-Daddee activity of “let’s go again!”

Once settled on the plane, and making Caitlin understand and accept that the jie-jie will only start bringing around the headphones once the plane stops getting higher and higher, I had asked the crew to get me some warm water for her milk feed. Airplane food isn’t always very toddler friendly. Depending on what it was, some things she ate, but mostly it was just the bread roll.

From her first flight experience she remembered the inflight entertainment that included kids programs. Still reeling from the ongoing adventure, she insisted on watching something
 
Note to parents: the headphones provided will be too big for the toddler.
I had to MacGyver-ise something to make the headphones fit her little head. I took the headrest sheet of tissue & folded it a few times to make up for the gap between the top of her head & the headphones.

I think it worked pretty well- she was happy with it.

On the Sydney - KL flight returning home, I did more or less the same things again. on this journey we had a 1-hour stop-over at Brisbane. Caitlin was already wearing out by the time we were due to board back on the (same) plane. When the plane was taxiing on the runway, even before take off, this seasoned traveller was already asleep.

And, she slept all the way to KL. I, however, didn’t sleep well not because of tending to her needs (toilet visits, meals, “I can’t hear the tv!”, “Caitlin come back here!”) but because I was concerned about her rolling off the seats in her sleep.

So, if I can do this flying with toddler alone, so can you!

When an idea is planted in a toddler’s head, they tend to live with it for a long time. I had psyched up Caitlin the days leading to our trip that “WE ARE GOING TO AUSTRALIA WE ARE GOING TO AUSTRALIA”. This innocence was all too apparent at the Australian immigration check point at the airport, when we were leaving the country. –

“.. And where are you going, sweetie?” asked the officer.

“I am going to Australia!”

Well, we must have made her feel like home, wherever she was!