The 40th anniversary of Malaysia Airlines has been celebrated with the revival of the old livery and even traditional menus served in the seventies!
SUBANG- Malaysia Airlines last week revealed one of its aircraft with the original livery it featured on 1 October 1972, to commemorate its 40 years of Malaysian Hospitality delivery to air travellers. A Malaysia Airlines’ Boeing 737-800 was re-painted in full colours of the first ever aircraft that took to the skies four decades ago.
The original livery has the logo featuring the Kelantan wau bulan or moon kite in a red circle, representing controlled flight and also a fine expression of the many mythologies associated with Malaysia. To complement the logo then, the national carrier sported the colours of the Jalur Gemilang (National Flag) on the aircraft, where red, the dominant colour was used for the two stripes across the body as in the flag. Blue was used for the words of the airline’s name with white for the background. The stylized kite, the dominant theme, was fast recognized round the world for achieving the dual impression of movement and modernity and most importantly identifying the Malaysian flag carrier to travellers around the world.
Named the ‘Retro Livery’, the aircraft was revealed at a special function at KL International Airport (KLIA) on December 12 graced by Malaysia Airlines Chairman Tan Sri Md Nor Yusof and Malaysia Airlines Group CEO Encik Ahmad Jauhari Yayha as well as some distinguished guests from the aviation industry and a good number of Malaysia Airlines’ staff.
The function was filled with a nostalgic atmosphere that brought out the feeling of inspiration amongst all that attended. Various staff recorded their MH stories which had elements of gratitude, hard work, satisfaction, friendship and most of all the lesson of hope against all odds. It was evident from the staff’ speeches that they valued their association with Malaysia Airlines throughout the years.
The retro livery aircraft soared again to the skies on December 13, beginning with flights to Jakarta and Bangkok, two popular Malaysia Airlines’ destinations. To further enhance customer experience on-board, Malaysia Airlines has also introduced new in-flight meal presentations for flights operated by this exclusive aircraft. The menus are designed by Malaysia Airlines’ chef wearing their retro toques while looking back to identify the popular dishes of yester-years.
Malaysia Airlines has played a significant role in the development of the nation, Malaysia and it was for this very reason, it was formed 40 years ago. While it has notched 65 years in aviation which is shared together with Singapore Airlines, 40 years marks an important milestone in the history of Malaysia and Malaysians.
As this calls for a definite celebration, Malaysia Airlines ushers in the New Year of 2013 in conjunction with the 40th year of its flight code ‘MH’, with its staff making a conscious commitment and resolution in each of their work areas, to come together, to be united and to be a team for a much stronger, revitalized, re-energised and sustainably profitable Malaysia Airlines. A strong Malaysia Airlines also reflects on the strength that brings the staff together on a commitment to serve customers better and better each day.
Luc Citrinot a French national is a freelance journalist and consultant in tourism and air transport with over 20 years experience. Based in Paris and Bangkok, he works for various travel and air transport trade publications in Europe and Asia.
