The Malaysia Airlines Pilots’ Association (MAPA) expressed deep shame over the case of a Malaysia Airlines pilot allegedly attempting to smuggle 25 kilograms of ecstasy pills into Indonesia, describing the incident as a “double disgrace” since the perpetrator is from the national airline.
The association’s president, Captain Abdul Manan Mansor, said in an interview with the New Straits Times that, as a Malaysian pilot, he felt extremely embarrassed by the incident.
"I am a Malaysian pilot, and I feel very, very ashamed about this."
"Moreover, he is from the national carrier, which makes it a double humiliation—how can I even face people in the future?"
He urged airlines to strengthen internal monitoring to prevent similar incidents from recurring, including closely watching for any abnormal behavior among employees and conducting random urine tests for all staff.
"I think the airline should strengthen control in this area, and it should cover all staff, including airport ground crew."
Abdul Manan also raised questions about the career progression of the involved pilot, pointing out that at 39 years old, the suspect was still only wearing two stripes, holding the rank of Second Officer.
He said that, in general, Malaysia Airlines pilots could be promoted to captain with four stripes by about 30 years old.
He also believes the government should take a firm stance on this matter, as such incidents not only damage the country’s aviation industry and image, but also destroy the lives of those involved and their families.
"The Transport Minister should issue a statement, and so far the airline also hasn’t responded, nor have they explained whether security measures will be enhanced, such as implementing random urine tests."
The involved Malaysia Airlines pilot was arrested by Indonesian law enforcement officers at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, Indonesia, on July 28. Indonesian customs officers reportedly found 15 packages, containing a total of 71,114 ecstasy pills weighing about 25kg, in his luggage.
The drugs are estimated to be worth around RM45 million at market price in Indonesia. In addition, after urine testing, the pilot tested positive for methamphetamine, ecstasy, and cocaine.