National flag carrier Malaysia Airlines (MAS) is planning on revamping their iconic kebaya uniform and has asked the Malaysian public for their thoughts and opinions through a now closed online survey.
In the survey sent to customers, MAS first asks if you are “in favour of (…) putting a more modest twist on the iconic kebaya.”
Then it follows up with the question of whether you’d like female cabin crew to be given the option to don their hijab.
Thirdly, it asks if you’d like to see the cabin crew “move away from the kebaya, and opt for more modest and practical uniforms such as that donned by other airlines (pantsuit, skirt, jacket)”.
Public pressure
Prior to this move by MAS, the topic of Malaysians’ air stewardesses attire being “too revealing” has been brought up on multiple occasions over the last few years.
The issue was even raised in Parliament with the argument that Muslim air stewardesses are required to wear uniforms that do not “tutup aurat” or are not modest.
Then, two weeks ago, UK flag carrier airline British Airways unveiled a collection of new uniforms that features more modest options.
The new line of uniforms includes “(…) a modern jumpsuit – which is an airline first.”
“A tunic and hijab option has also been created for the global carrier.”
As a result, many Malaysians who are supporters of a less “sexy” uniform have urged MAS to review their uniforms saying that if British Airways can do it, what more Malaysia, a Muslim majority country.
“As a Muslim majority country we should feel embarrassed that our own Airlines do not offer these options (the hijab and other more modest clothing),” said Dr Rafidah Hanim, the president of the International Women’s Alliance for Family Institution and Quality Education (WAFIQ).
Focus on improving services
Following that, outspoken human rights lawyer Siti Kasim has made a video to share her opinions on the survey.
She condemned MAS for submitting to those who “use religion for their own benefit” and urged the airline “not to try to control and manipulate the way we’re moving in this country”.
She also added that MAS should focus on improving their services and employees’ welfare instead of wasting time surveying the public’s thoughts on their iconic kebaya uniform after being swayed by certain leaders.
“There’s nothing wrong with the clothes. The clothes are an icon of Malaysia. They look good. They are not obscene. So, what’s the problem?”
Watch the full video below:
What's up @MAS? ?? pic.twitter.com/6kgaTCxkD2
— Siti Kasim (@sitikasim) January 17, 2023
Do you think Muslim air stewardesses should be given the option to don the hijab? Should MAS move away from the kebaya?
