THE prime minister today said Putrajaya will ensure that the name “Malaysia” is retained in any decision made with regard to Malaysia Airlines’ recovery plan.

Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the government has received multiple proposals on turning the flag carrier around, including from companies keen to take over MAS.

However, Putrajaya has yet to decide whether to sell the airline or collaborate with a company, he said.

“But one thing that we want retained is the name of the company, which must be related to our country, Malaysia.

“We cannot sell the company if it means the name is removed,” he told the Dewan Rakyat.

He was replying to a supplementary question by Ismail Sabri Yaakob (BN-Bera) on whether the government has identified a firm to take over the ailing MAS.

Ahmad Maslan (BN-Pontian) asked if there will be a bailout should the revival efforts fail, and whether staff will be retained if the company is sold to a foreign entity.

“We hope… there will be no bailout, and that the staff are not laid off.”

Dr Mahathir said whatever action is taken, it is hoped that MAS employees get to keep their jobs.

“If they decide to work with another company, it’s their decision. We won’t lay off the employees.

“The condition for the buyer is, the staff size should not be reduced.” – July 10, 2019.