8 August 2017

PAS should counter aviation & maritime hijackers & terrorists instead of slugging alcohol

Once again, PAS singles out alcoholic drinks served on board Malaysia Airlines as a big sin recommending a prohibition against them in airplanes as “a lesson to the customers that the plane is not an entertainment centre or nightclubs for them to do what they wish (PAS Central Committee member Ridhuan Mohd Nor cited by Malay Mail Online, 7 Aug 2017).”  

Since when were airline passengers who do not profess the same faith perceived and deemed as spiritual offenders deserving a “lesson” or lecture by PAS holier-than-thou members? How did PAS assume such authority to deliver such “lessons”? Will PAS demand that medical alcohol swabs be barred on board aircrafts too? PAS’ plan will only drive away passengers from Malaysia Airlines, thus slapping a disservice to Malaysia’s first impression to international tourists and air travelers.

Instead of nip-picking at alcohol, PAS should be concerned regarding airline and travel security. The hardline party could muster a shred of credibility if condemned hijackings, hostage/captive taking and terrorism on board airplanes, cargo oceanliners, sailing yachts and other maritime vessels eg by September 11 terrorists or by Abu Sayyaf and al-Shabab militants and other seafaring pirates which incur loss of lives and resources, and offer suggestions to thwart such terrorist activities which oft-time are verged on religious extremism, from repeating.

If Arab-based airlines like Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways which hail from Muslim-majority countries serve alcohol as they strike a right balance between both Muslim and non-Muslim passengers, why should PAS kick up a storm with Malaysia Airlines’ similar practice? Malaysia Airlines is the recipient of countless international aviation awards owing to the dedication and professionalism of its cabin crew.

Regarding passenger safety and aviation security, it is important that the pilot and the cabin do not drink.

Likewise if a passenger has drunk excessively and his/her behaviour becomes disruptive or threatening to other passengers and cabin crew, then the flight stewardess do have the authority to restrain the disorderly passenger as per rules and regulations accorded by international aviation authority ie the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Dato’ Sri Ti Lian Ker
MCA Religious Harmony Bureau Chairman
MCA Central Committee Member
MCA Kuantan Division Chairman

-MCA online-