Almost 99pc Malaysia Airlines cabin crew drug tested, all negative

Nearly all Malaysia Airlines cabin crew members have undergone drug screening, with every test resulting in a negative outcome, according to Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). Captain Nasaruddin A Bakar, MAG's managing director and chief executive officer, announced that drug screening will become a mandatory annual requirement for all cabin crew members.

Safety is a top priority for the group, and they continue to enhance their safety processes and standards. MAG has also completed drug screening for over 1,500 pilots across its airlines, including Firefly, on August 15. As of the latest update, over 98.8% of Malaysia Airlines cabin crew members have undergone screening, with the goal of reaching 100% by today.

All tests conducted on Malaysia Airlines and Firefly crew members have returned negative results. MAG also conducts random testing almost every week. The CEO emphasized the importance of safety, stating that it requires discipline in every decision, the standards set, and how the organization responds to unforeseen situations. He highlighted that focusing on operational fundamentals is becoming increasingly crucial as the aviation industry faces various external pressures, such as fuel price fluctuations, supply chain constraints, and geopolitical uncertainty.

Despite maintaining strong demand, MAG continues to face challenges from fuel prices, market volatility, supply chain constraints, and geopolitical uncertainty. With fuel accounting for nearly 40% of MAG's total operating costs, even a US$1 increase in fuel prices can result in approximately RM50 million in additional costs. While the group cannot control these external pressures, it can prepare itself to effectively respond to them.

This includes strengthening business operations and safety measures to enhance competitiveness and offering products and experiences that meet and are valued by customers.