Malaysia Airlines survey to review its kebaya uniform for cabin crew members stirs debate

A survey by Malaysia’s flag carrier sent to its customers asking for their opinion on whether its iconic kebaya uniforms should be “refreshed” to make it more inclusive has sparked fierce debate from various quarters. Some members of the public have called for others to support the female cabin crew’s choice to don the tudung, while others say the current uniforms are an “icon of Malaysia”. In the online survey sighted by CNA, Malaysia Airlines Berhad on Monday asked its customers for their opinion on whether the airline should put “a more modest twist” to the kebaya uniform. “Moving into the new year, we would like to take this opportunity to refresh our uniforms once again, embracing more inclusivity while still maintaining our classic Malaysia Airlines elegance,” read the survey. The survey also asked whether the airline should make changes to the kebaya design to give cabin crew members the option to don a “hijab” - also known as tudung - while serving onboard. MAB noted in its survey that its kebaya uniform “is arguably the most recognisable Malaysian kebaya locally and internationally.” However, in a follow-up question, the airline wrote that it welcomed customers' suggestions as to whether it should move away from the kebaya uniform and choose a more “modest and practical” uniform for its crew members as seen at other airlines. <br/>