by Dr Rahim Said
Malaysia Airlines (MAS) has long been a symbol of national pride, renowned for its stellar service and exceptional staff.
Its story is one of resilience and determination, embodied not only in its daily operations but also in its pilots’ incredible skill and the historical manoeuvres that secured its future.
Two recent and historical events remind us of the airline’s enduring excellence and the legacy of individuals who fought for its place on the global stage.
Storm Darragh and the Skill of Modern Pilots
Recently, MAS pilots demonstrated nerves of steel and unmatched expertise when landing an Airbus A350-900 at London’s Heathrow Airport amidst the wrath of Storm Darragh.
Video footage shared on aviation spotter channel Big Jet TV captured the plane battling fierce crosswinds, executing a flawless “crabbing” landing—a manoeuvre requiring immense precision and calm under pressure. Social media users, both local and international, showered the crew with praise, recognising the extraordinary professionalism that MAS has become synonymous with.
This was not just a routine flight but a masterclass in aviation. It highlighted the calibre of talent that MAS cultivates and celebrates — a testament to the airline’s enduring commitment to safety and excellence, even in the most trying circumstances.
Remembering Tun Daim’s Legacy in Securing Heathrow Landing Rights
As we marvel at MAS’s recent triumph, we must also pay tribute to the late Tun Daim Zainuddin, whose efforts decades ago laid the groundwork for such feats. Following the split of Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA) in the 1970s, MAS faced the monumental task of carving its own identity in the aviation world.
One of the most significant challenges was negotiating landing rights at major international airports, including London’s Heathrow — a critical hub for global connectivity.
During a memorable interview with Tun Daim, he recounted how MAS struggled to raise the funds necessary to secure these rights. Recognising the urgency, he mobilised influential British allies (UK-based companies) to contribute, ensuring MAS could establish itself on the world stage. It was a bold, strategic manoeuvre that underscores the foresight and tenacity of Malaysia’s early leaders.
Without his efforts, MAS might have faced insurmountable obstacles, relegating it to a regional player rather than the global competitor it is today.
Bridging Past and Present
The juxtaposition of these events — one in the stormy skies of modern London and the other in the boardrooms of 1970s Britain — reflects the spirit of MAS. Its pilots and staff continue to embody the resilience and brilliance of those who came before them, charting new paths while honouring the legacy of past achievements.
Today, MAS remains a source of pride, not just for its technical achievements but for its embodiment of Malaysian values: persistence, adaptability, and excellence.
Every smooth landing, every challenging flight, and every satisfied passenger is a testament to the visionaries like Tun Daim and the dedication of MAS’s current team.
As Malaysians, let us continue to celebrate and support MAS — not just for what it achieves in the skies but for the legacy it preserves on the ground.
These stories remind us that while storms may rage, both literal and metaphorical, MAS will always land on steady ground.
WE