Loke denies Transport Ministry talks with AirAsia amid bailout reports

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 12 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke has firmly denied any talks or agreements with AirAsia in recent weeks, according to his latest statement at a press conference. Speaking to reporters, Loke categorically stated that there have been "no meetings with AirAsia over the past two to three weeks, and no agreement has been reached."

This denial comes in response to a Reuters report, which cited anonymous sources suggesting that AirAsia had engaged in discussions with the Malaysian government about potential funding support. While emphasizing that the Transport Ministry has not been actively involved in these talks, Loke acknowledged that airlines may interact with government stakeholders independently.

He clarified that his comments specifically pertain to the Transport Ministry's portfolio and that no funding deal has been brokered through his department.