In brief
AirAsia says it has accepted an apology from MalaysiaNow concerning articles published in January 2022 that questioned a RM500 million loan secured from Danajamin Nasional Bhd. The company says the articles were later withdrawn and did not give it a chance to clarify or respond to the criticism. AirAsia used the statement to reiterate its focus on transparency, accountability and communication with stakeholders and the media. Group CEO Bo Lingam said the episode highlights the importance of accurate and fair reporting, including allowing all parties to provide their perspective. AirAsia also said it would defend its reputation when it believes reports misrepresent its actions. The company is part of Capital A Berhad, according to the release.
Key takeaways
- AirAsia says it has accepted MalaysiaNow’s apology over articles published in January 2022.
- The articles questioned an RM500 million loan from Danajamin Nasional Bhd and were later retracted, the company says.
- Group CEO Bo Lingam called for accurate reporting and an opportunity for all parties to respond.
- AirAsia reiterated its stated commitment to transparency, accountability and communication with stakeholders.
SEPANG, October 25, 2024 -- AirAsia today acknowledges and accepts the apology issued by MalaysiaNow for its misleading articles published in January 2022, which questioned the RM500 million loan it has secured from Danajamin Nasional Bhd. The articles, which were retracted after failing to present an accurate and balanced account, did not provide AirAsia the opportunity to clarify the facts or respond to the criticisms raised.
In light of this, AirAsia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to becoming the most communicative, responsive, and answerable brand in the region. As the company continues to grow and diversify, its primary focus remains on transparency and openness in all interactions with stakeholders, partners, and the media.
Bo Lingam, Group CEO of AirAsia Aviation Group, said: “While we accept MalaysiaNow’s apology, this incident underscores the critical importance of accuracy and fairness in journalism. AirAsia is not only committed to transparency but is also striving to become the most communicative and accountable brand in the region. We believe that reporting should be based on full facts and should provide all parties the opportunity to present their side of the story.”
He continued: “AirAsia has always upheld integrity in every aspect of our business operations. We stand by our actions and decisions, and we will always defend our reputation when it is unjustly called into question. Misleading reports that do not reflect the full picture are not only damaging but irresponsible. AirAsia Aviation Group, as part of Capital A Berhad, has weathered significant challenges and has emerged stronger because of the resilience and dedication of our people. We will always stand firm in defending our values and protecting the hard work that has built this company.”
AirAsia remains steadfast in its long-term commitment to transparency, accountability, and clear communication. The company is dedicated to ensuring that all stakeholders are kept informed and engaged at every step of its journey, reinforcing the brand’s reputation as one built on openness and integrity.
As AirAsia continues to evolve, it invites all media and partners to work collaboratively, upholding the same values of fairness and integrity that drive the company forward.
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Questions around this news
Why did MalaysiaNow apologize to AirAsia?
According to the release, MalaysiaNow apologized over articles published in January 2022 that questioned a RM500 million loan AirAsia had secured from Danajamin Nasional Bhd. AirAsia says the articles were misleading, were later retracted, and did not give the company an opportunity to clarify facts or respond to the criticisms.
What did the articles say about the RM500 million loan?
The release says the articles questioned the loan AirAsia had secured from Danajamin Nasional Bhd, but it does not describe their specific claims or explain the loan’s purpose or terms. AirAsia says the articles were retracted after they failed to provide an accurate and balanced account.
What commitments did AirAsia reaffirm after the apology?
AirAsia said it remains committed to transparency, accountability, and clear communication with stakeholders, partners, and the media. The company also said it wants to be more communicative and responsive, and called for reporting that is accurate and fair and gives all parties an opportunity to present their perspectives.
What does it mean for a news article to be retracted?
A retraction is a formal withdrawal of published material, often because significant errors or other problems have been identified. It signals that the publisher no longer stands by the article as originally published. A retraction differs from a correction, which typically amends particular details while leaving the article in place.
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