{UPDATED] Loke: No recent meetings between Transport Ministry and AirAsia

Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that there have been no recent meetings between the Transport Ministry and AirAsia Malaysia in the past two to three weeks, despite discussions surrounding potential government assistance. The Transport Ministry clarified that any potential talks may have involved the Finance Ministry. Loke emphasized that there is no existing agreement between the Transport Ministry and AirAsia.

He explained to a press conference that airlines typically schedule regular meetings with the government, but there have been no such meetings with AirAsia in the specified timeframe, nor any formal agreement.

AirAsia co-founder Tony Fernandes had previously mentioned that he had met officials from the Finance Ministry around two weeks ago to discuss prospective government support for the low-cost carrier. Fernandes also claimed that he had met officials from both the Finance and Transport ministries during the week of September 28, upon his request.

He clarified that the discussions centered on aviation-related expenses such as airport fees and fuel costs, rather than seeking financial aid. However, three individuals familiar with the situation informed Reuters that the talks were indicative of the government's growing apprehension over AirAsia's financial stability, following a recent surge in jet fuel prices.

These sources suggested that the discussions were centered around the potential government backing of AirAsia's fundraising endeavors, contingent on certain conditions that remain under deliberation.