Headscarves for MAS flight attendants suggestion needs more discussions, says Nufam

The suggestion to make Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight attendants wear headscarves needs more discussions with all stakeholders, said the National Union of Flight Attendants Malaysia (Nufam) today.

In a statement, it said this is because there are many other aspects that need to be taken into account before such policies are pushed through.

Citing the serving of alcohol on flights as an example, Nufam asked: "What about Air Asia X or Malindo Air, will these airlines follow? What happens if they don't? We cannot be implementing (policies) on one airline alone, while others don't follow.

"How will the government adopt these demands remains to be seen. As we know, some airlines will not do it, as they will claim it will affect their business.

"Unless the government is seriously willing to impose a sudden change of policy on all airlines, then the airlines will have no choice but to follow," said Nufam.

The statement comes following the suggestion by Tourism and Culture Minister Nazri Abdul Aziz yesterday that Muslim flight attendants from MAS should be allowed to wear headscarves.

Wearing the headscarf must also fit in with the image of the airline, and the working environment, said Nufam.

"We cannot be asking the crew to wear (the) tudung while wearing tight-fitting kebayas or tight skirts. That will not look right.

"Although the wearing of tudung is a good suggestion for Muslim employees; will the government direct the airlines to change their uniform policies? Are these airlines willing to fork out money to change their entire uniform? All these suggestions will need more serious discussions."- Mkini