Market Intelligence: South East Asia

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) takes a significant step forward on April 26, 2024 with the official launch of its new MAB Academy campus and the groundbreaking of its Flight Simulator Building at the South Support Zone, Sepang. This landmark event underscores MAG’s unwavering commitment to advancing aviation excellence and shaping the future of the industry through its training arm, MAB Academy.

The ceremony was marked by the groundbreaking ceremony of the MAB Academy’s state of-the-art flight simulator building, officiated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Also in attendance were Minister of Transport, Tuan Loke Siew Fook; Group Chairman of MAG, Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin; Group Managing Director of MAG, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, alongside official government dignitaries, board members and the senior management of MAG.

Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin, expressed the company’s dedication, commenting, “As an aviation group, we recognise the pivotal role skilled talents play in shaping a sustainable future for the industry. Through strategic investments in state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive training programmes, we are dedicated to building a robust talent pipeline that serves not only our immediate needs but also contributes to the nation’s overall growth in the aviation industry. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, we ensure our agility in meeting the evolving demands of the aviation landscape.

We will continue to focus on initiatives that enhance customer experience and MAG’s robust growth, with the clear ambition of becoming among the top ten global airlines by 2030. This journey involves ongoing enhancements to every aspect of our product and service offering to ensure unparalleled excellence for the global communities we serve.”

The new MAB Academy is situated at Malaysia Airlines’ former headquarters having relocated from its previous landmark in Kelana Jaya. Spanning 194,000 square feet, the campus prioritises a holistic educational model by integrating collaborative spaces with comprehensive training programmes. Notable new features include a Heritage walkway that brings audiences on MAG’s historic journey; an i-Learn Hub; comprehensive cabin mock-ups for in-flight services training, including a cabin fire trainer that is designed to replicate real in-flight fire emergencies complete with seating, overhead compartments and lavatories – all aimed at enhancing the scope and quality of training.

The new Flight Simulator Building promises to enhance the academy’s training capabilities significantly. Scheduled for completion in mid-2025, this facility underscores MAB Academy’s commitment to providing cutting-edge training resources. This new, world-class simulation centre will feature six simulator bays, which will be equipped with advanced aircraft simulators operated by MAG airlines, including the brand-new A330neo simulator, as well as simulators for the Boeing 737-800 NG and ATR 72-500. The Flight Simulator Building will also be equipped with comprehensive facilities including a pool for safety and emergency training, as well as other service training facilities. These facilities, along with complete hospitality services, are expected to enhance the MAB Academy’s status as a centre of excellence for aviation and hospitality in the region.

As an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), MAB Academy offers nearly 200 training courses. These range from mandatory flight training to aviation services training and programs on digital innovation, catering to a diverse clientele that includes top Malaysian corporations, international airlines, and students from prestigious global universities.

Source: Malaysia Aviation Group
Photo Credit: Malaysia Aviation Group