'Relax lah, brother' - Wee to Loke over highlighting MAS issues

'Relax lah, brother' - Wee to Loke over highlighting MAS issues

Published: Aug 27, 2024 5:38 PM


Former transport minister Wee Ka Siong has told his successor Anthony Loke not to overreact after the latter said he was “creating panic”.

In a statement today, Wee asked what he did wrong by saying Malaysia Airlines (MAS) appeared to be suffering a confidence crisis after at least eight incidents, including emergency landings and technical problems, involving its aircraft.

“Dear Anthony, please show me where in my post I was factually incorrect.

“Which part of my statement has accused Malaysia Airlines to the point of causing panic? In which line have I questioned the professionalism of our national carrier, Malaysia Airlines?

“If Wee Ka Siong is deemed to be ‘causing panic’, what about other individuals who coincidentally also shared the same sentiments?” asked Wee in his post today.


The MCA president told Loke to look at the reactions of social media users and asked if they could also be accused of causing panic.

“When considering the safety and lives of people, it is important to take responsibility and calm the situation.

“Who needs to take responsibility? The answer is clearly the Ministry of Transport, as the regulatory body of the aviation industry and Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), as the owner of Malaysia Airlines.


“Both must come forward to provide detailed explanations on each and every incident and, at the same time, convince the public and passengers with actions that have been taken, are being taken, and will be taken by Malaysia Airlines in order to restore passengers’ confidence,” added Wee.

Yesterday, Loke warned Wee not to create panic while acknowledging there is concern among the public.

He said there is no need to question MAS and MAG’s professionalism in handling such situations.

“I have always believed they will ensure everything is done safely. But of course, we are not downplaying the concerns,” he said.

‘Restore confidence’

Wee repeated that the confidence and safety of passengers must be prioritised.

“A paradigm shift is needed to review maintenance, repair, and overhauls (MRO) for all Malaysia Airlines aircraft.

“If passengers are feeling anxious, it won’t benefit MAG. Think about it…

“Relax lah, brother. Calm down, don’t be so angry. Do your best to restore passengers’ confidence in Malaysia Airlines. That’s all!” said Wee.