Ahmad Jauhari Yahya

CORPORATE figure Ahmad Jauhari Yahya has been appointed the managing director of Malaysia Airlines (MAS), effective September 19, ending a search which began when his predecessor, Tengku Azmil Zahruddin, resigned on August 9 (TTG Asia e-Daily, August 10).

Mohammed Rashdan Mohd Yusof will remain as the flag carrier’s executive director and report to Ahmad Jauhari.

Ahmad Jauhari’s closest connection to the travel industry is his appointment to the board of Malaysia Airports Holdings earlier this year. Otherwise, his previous leadership roles have been in sectors related to energy, engineering and media.

Despite Ahmad Jauhari not being from the trade, Mitra Malaysia CEO, John Tan, said he was willing to give the new MD a chance as he could be a quick learner.

“Most importantly, Ahmad Jauhari has to engage with the trade and MATTA (Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents). He needs to get to know us and listen to our issues and problems,” Tan added.

With MAS unions threatening to strike over the collaboration agreement signed with AirAsia (TTG Asia e-Daily, September 12), and uncertainties over the impact of the deal on MAS and its low-cost subsidiary Firefly, Ahmad Jauhari will certainly find his plate full.