Malaysia – MAB Academy, the training and development arm of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), officially launched its new Simulator Building at South Support Zone, Sepang, marking a major milestone in its long-term strategy to advance industry-leading aviation, hospitality and professional development.

The launch ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Transport Malaysia, YB Loke Siew Fook; together with Dato’ Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir, Managing Director of Khazanah Nasional Berhad and Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG; and Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group CEO-designate, MAG.

The Simulator Building features six full-flight simulator bays, including the A330neo, Boeing 737-800NG and ATR 72-500, along with dedicated training spaces that foster a focused and effective learning environment. Its layout encourages close instructor–trainee interaction, supports consistent training delivery, and promotes a structured approach to developing operational discipline.

The new Simulator Building marks the completion of MAB Academy’s transformation from the 40-year-old Subang Training Centre, taking a significant step toward its vision of becoming a one-stop aviation learning centre.

YB Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia, said, “MAG is investing in advanced training and simulation through MAB Academy to ensure our aviation professionals are fully prepared. This strengthens safety standards, builds operational capability, and positions Malaysia as a reliable and capable aviation hub in the region.”

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG, said, “The launch of MAB Academy’s new Simulator Building marks an important milestone in our long-term transformation journey and supports our Long-Term Business Plan 3.0 (LTBP 3.0), which focuses on disciplined, sustainable growth and operational leadership. Our focus has always been on preparing aviation professionals for the realities of operations, and this facility strengthens that commitment by ensuring training is relevant, rigorous, and grounded in real-world experience.

A key highlight of the facility is its integrated safety and emergency training facilities, which includes a Cabin Emergency Evacuation Trainer, and a water survival training pool with wave simulation — the first of its kind in Malaysia.

In another national first, MAB Academy has become the first aviation training centre in Malaysia to receive the Green Building Index (GBI) Certification, underscoring its commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible design.

Looking ahead, MAB Academy will further strengthen its simulator capabilities with the introduction of the Boeing 737-8 Full Flight Simulator, expected to be operational by July 2026. This next-generation simulator will further strengthen technical training capacity and support the evolving fleet and operational requirements of airlines across the region.

As an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), MAB Academy currently offers close to 200 specialised training programmes serving airlines, corporations, aviation professionals, and international students. With the launch of the new Simulator Building, MAB Academy further cements its role as a regional training powerhouse, supporting industry growth while contributing to Malaysia’s aspiration to become a global aviation hub.

Source: Malaysia Aviation Group
Photo Credit: Malaysia Aviation Group