In reviewing draft of the book, “The Malaysia Airlines That We Built: The journey of an award-winning international airlines. A collection of behind-the-scenes stories” on Part 1: Doing the Nation Proud for the Chapter 1 on Lessons in Leadership by Mr. Suppiah, the editorial team recognised that the leadership contribution of the former Chairmen, Managing Directors and Divisional Directors. However, a key-point was mooted to mention role of the country leadership under Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak.
In support, Sam Ramasamy who was around at that significant formative era added, “Specially the Deputy Prime Minister, Allahyarham Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman, who officially announced the launching of Malaysian Airlines Ltd, and later changed to Malaysian Airlines System (MAS) at a press conference on 31 March, 1971. Tun Dr. Ismail, whom many seniors had credited as being the architect and genius behind the bold move, then declared that with the launching of MAS a new era of aviation had emerged.”
Sam recalled, “Tun Dr. Ismail officially launched the start of MAS operations on 1st October, 1972, quoted, ‘MAS is a worthy successor of MSA but what is more important to me is that MAS has a determination and ambition to become the foremost airlines in this region. MAS is the key to this era and would continue to receive support from the government.’ Tun was confident that MAS would succeed. He urged every loyal citizen & employees to contribute towards the success of MAS in any way & form possible.”
Engineer Sitham, MAS former Deputy Director of Engineering could also recall then “Tun Dr. Ismail reminded MAS and all other organisations connected with the airlines that they too, had a significant role to play in national development. This means loyal service, dedication & high determination from everyone. The birth of MAS proves we have moved one step further to achieve our objective of a true national identity. MAS was set up as a result of a firm decision & he was confident MAS would be successful.”
Throughout the writing of this book, while speaking to leaders and top performers during the Golden Service era of MAS, one idea revealed itself to us again and again . It came to sit above all the others, and it runs through this book like words through a stick of rock. It's the idea that if you celebrate difference and forge togetherness, you will accelerate high growth. We found the importance of generosity and examine the value of different perspectives, skills and stimuli in decision-making, teamwork & innovation.
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