AirAsia, in collaboration with Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), hosted an engaging community programme for 40 students and teachers from Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) Kota Kinabalu today, further reinforcing its commitment to community upliftment and education.
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This programme aims to provide underprivileged students with a unique, educational experience related to air travel, sparking interest and broadening career aspirations in aviation. The students and teachers had the opportunity to experience the behind-the-scenes operations of AirAsia’s second biggest hub in Malaysia. The day’s activities included a check-in and departure simulation, a guided aircraft visit, a taxiway tour, and an introduction to Airport Fire and Rescue Services (AFRS).
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Dato’ Captain Fareh Mazputra, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia, said: “As the people’s airline, we believe that empowering the youth is not just about providing knowledge but also creating pathways for them to realise their dreams. Through this programme, we aim to inspire students, many of whom may be experiencing aviation up close for the first time, to consider aviation as a viable and exciting career choice while equipping them with the exclusive knowledge and perspectives needed to succeed in the ever-evolving industry.
“By nurturing local talent, we ensure that the aviation sector remains dynamic and sustainable, contributing to both the economy and the growth of future leaders in aviation. As Sabah’s main gateway, we applaud KKIA’s continued initiative to inspire 79 students and teachers by providing firsthand insights into airport and aviation operations, encouraging them to explore exciting career opportunities in this field in the future.”
The programme spans two days to accommodate students from two schools. On 7 January 2025, 39 students and teachers from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Petagas also participated in the programme, enriching their understanding of the aviation industry.
About AirAsia
The birth story of AirAsia, the aviation arm of Capital A, is an industry legend. It started back in 2001 when Tony Fernandes and Kamarudin Meranun bought an ailing airline with two aircraft and 200 staff and turned it into the fourth largest in Asia, with more than 200 aircraft and 21,000 staff across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia and more. With affordability, inclusivity and accessibility underpinning the operation, AirAsia has carried more than 800 million guests to over 130 destinations in its network. With the mission to serve the underserved, it has connected people and places, and has largely been credited for democratising air travel in the region with its famous tagline ‘Now Everyone Can Fly’.
