He was responding to a report that Hasmiza, more commonly known as Dr Vida, was considering buying shares in the only shariah-compliant airline company in Malaysia, due to the potential she saw in the airline’s services.
Zulkalnain, who represents a number of Rayani Air staff, said if it was indeed true, then Dr Vida should examine the company carefully, not just based on the potential of the industry, but also the airline’s overall business operations and staff issues.
“Rayani Air is currently experiencing funding problems. Dr Vida needs to know about Rayani Air’s benefits, losses, debts and assets,” he told mStar Online today.
“This includes the arrears of salaries of 400 employees for two months amounting to about RM3 million. Today, it’s come to nearly three months worth of salary arrears,” Zulkalnain said, adding that another aspect that should be considered is the refund for tickets that people bought prior to the suspension of operations.
On April 11, the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) issued an order temporarily suspending Rayani Air’s Air Operator’s Certificate for three months.
Zulkalnain added that the employees’ welfare was an important aspect for any investor who wanted to take over or invest in Rayani Air.
“Employees are required for the company to resume operations. Currently, it is as if the Rayani Air employees are being left in limbo after not receiving their salaries for two months.
“If Dr Vida is truly sincere in wanting to buy Rayani Air shares, then she must think about us too… especially with the fasting month and Hari Raya approaching,” he said.
He, however, said Dr Vida’s wish to buy shares could help in restoring the public’s perception of Rayani Air as a shariah-compliant airline instead of one that was beset by problems and controversies.
“Therefore, I recommend that Dr Vida hold discussions with the Rayani Air owner. It would be good if Dr Vida could also have meetings with the staff,” he said.
mStar Online previously reported that Rayani Air owner Ravi Alagendran was ready to release his 51% stake in the company to new investors in order to save the airline.
A Rayani Air employee said Dr Vida should be serious in wanting to buy shares in Rayani Air.
“Talk is cheap, Dr Vida,” said the employee, who refused to be named.
“Rayani Air’s current predicament is a serious issue that needs to be tackled. It is not a joke. Dr Vida needs to have a serious discussion with Rayani Air if she indeed intends to buy shares and is not just seeking popularity,” he told mStar Online.