Malaysia Airlines targets Top 10 by 2030

Malaysia Airlines is aiming high again. After a decade of turbulence, the flag carrier has entered what it calls a "commercial elevation journey," opening new routes, modernising its fleet, and betting on premium service over low-cost competition.

Dersenish Aresandiran, chief commercial officer of Airlines at Malaysia Aviation Group, believes the airline has entered a bold new era of transformation, one defined by premium service, sustainability, and a return to global prominence. In this exclusive interview with The Daily Star's Commercial Editor Ehsanur Raza, he explains how Bangladesh and South Asia are at the heart of that comeback story.

Global Strategy & Recovery

The Daily Star (TDS): Malaysia Airlines has navigated a demanding decade. What is the current vision for its global brand positioning, and how do you see the airline competing against aggressive Gulf and low-cost carriers?

Dersenish Aresandiran (DA): We have entered a new phase of transformation. Our "commercial elevation journey" has seen nine new routes launched in just 24 months, a strong rebound in premium demand, and a clear shift from low-fare competition. Today, our vision is simple yet bold: to return Malaysia Airlines to the global top 10 by 2030, driven by network expansion, brand rejuvenation, and an elevated customer experience.

We are no longer competing head-to-head with low-cost carriers. Instead, we offer a full-service, high-value proposition anchored in authentic Malaysian Hospitality, supported by modern in-flight offerings and seamless connectivity via Kuala Lumpur. In competitive markets such as Bangladesh, where passengers prioritise reliability, comfort, and cost efficiency, this premium positioning truly sets us apart.

TDS: With sustainability now driving aviation strategy, what commitments or innovations are Malaysia Airlines pursuing to reduce carbon emissions?

DA: Sustainability is central to our growth model. We are rolling out fuel-efficient A330neos and expanding the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with plans to scale up local production by 2027.

We also enhance operational efficiencies through optimised flight planning, and the use of biodiesel for ground vehicles. For environmentally conscious travellers and corporate partners, especially in markets like Bangladesh, we offer carbon-offsetting options and will soon introduce a Corporate Carbon Programme to align business travel with sustainability goals.

TDS: How has customer behaviour shifted post-pandemic, and how is the airline tailoring its services to meet these evolving expectations?

DA: Post-pandemic, travellers are seeking greater flexibility, safety, and personalisation. In response, we have enhanced hygiene protocols, introduced more adaptable fare options, and invested heavily in digital tools across the customer journey.

In markets such as Bangladesh, this translates into smoother booking processes, enhanced in-flight comfort, and digital experiences designed to deliver both convenience and care.

Regional Positioning (South & Southeast Asia)

TDS: How important is South Asia, particularly Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, in your route network strategy?

DA: South Asia lies at the heart of our ambition. Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan are key growth drivers. These are generating strong demand across education, VFR (visiting friends and relatives), and business travel segments. In response, we have expanded our regional footprint and introduced new routes including Krabi (KBV), Siem Reap (SAI), Cebu (CEB) via Firefly, and Chengdu Tianfu (TFU) via Malaysia Airlines. These additions reflect our commitment to improving accessibility and offering greater choice, all while maintaining that premium edge that defines Malaysia Airlines.

TDS: Are there plans to expand partnerships or codeshares that improve connectivity from Bangladesh to key hubs in ASEAN, the Middle East, and beyond?

DA: Absolutely. Through oneworld and our regional partnerships including collaborations with carriers such as IndiGo, we are enhancing connectivity for Bangladeshi passengers to ASEAN, the Middle East, and Europe. Our goal is to deliver seamless and convenient global access, underpinned by the trusted service that Malaysia Airlines is known for.

Bangladesh Market Focus

TDS: Dhaka–Kuala Lumpur is one of the busiest regional routes, with high passenger demand. How does Malaysia Airlines see this corridor evolving in terms of passenger growth and yield management?

DA: The Dhaka–Kuala Lumpur corridor remains one of our busiest routes. From 5 November 2025, we will increase to three daily flights, 21 per week to meet growing demand and enhance onward connectivity to Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and across ASEAN.

This increased capacity allows us to offer competitive fares while optimising yield through premium service and digital personalisation. This aims to deliver value for both conscious travellers and those seeking a superior travel experience.

TDS: Malaysia is home to a large Bangladeshi diaspora. How is the airline catering to migrant workers while balancing the premium segment of students, business travellers, and tourists?

DA: We are proud to serve all segments of Bangladeshi travellers. For migrant workers, we provide reliable and affordable service that meet their essential travel needs. Simultaneously, we cater to students, business travellers, and tourists with enhanced comfort and upgraded services. This balanced approach allows us to honour both the practical and aspirational travel requirements of this important market.

TDS: Many Bangladeshi passengers are extremely price-sensitive. What strategies do you have to balance affordability with the premium service experience Malaysia Airlines is known for?

DA: We offer tiered fares and flexible packages, ensuring affordability without compromising the travel experience. One standout offering is our Bonus Side Trip programme which allows passengers transiting through Kuala Lumpur to explore up to seven domestic destinations, including Langkawi or Penang by paying only the applicable taxes. This delivers premium value while adding a sense of discovery to their journey.

TDS: Cargo plays a vital role for Bangladesh's economy, especially RMG (ready-made garments). How significant is freight uplift from Bangladesh to your overall business strategy?

DA: Cargo is key to our business model, and Bangladesh's RMG exports are pivotal. Our Dhaka–Kuala Lumpur route not only supports fast, secure garment exports but also strengthens onward connectivity to global markets. Reliable schedules and modern freighters ensure we deliver both speed and dependability that are critical to Bangladeshi exporters.

Customer Experience & Innovation

TDS: Digital booking and ancillary services are growing rapidly. What investments has Malaysia Airlines made in technology to enhance the customer journey, especially for emerging markets like Bangladesh?

DA: We have invested significantly in mobile-first booking platforms, self-service tools, and personalised ancillaries. This allows travellers to manage seats, baggage, meals, and more through digital touchpoints. These tools simplify the journey for tech-savvy Bangladeshi users, while our signature Malaysian Hospitality ensures that even digital interactions feel warm and human.

TDS: Will we see more collaborations with Bangladeshi banks, mobile wallets, or fintechs for easier payment options?

DA: Yes, payments remain a key focus area. We are actively pursuing partnerships with Bangladeshi banks, mobile wallets, and fintech providers to make booking simpler, faster, and more secure. These collaborations will ensure that our services remain accessible and convenient for local travellers.

Future Outlook

TDS: Where do you see Malaysia Airlines in five years in terms of global ranking, fleet modernization, and network coverage?

DA: Our ambition is clear, to be firmly back among the global top 10 airlines by 2030, powered by one of the youngest, most efficient fleets in the region. We will continue to expand our network by strengthening key corridors such as Dhaka–Kuala Lumpur and opening new routes across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and beyond. By combining premium service, sustainability, and innovation, we are positioning Malaysia Airlines as a trusted global connector for travellers from Bangladesh and across the world.

TDS: Finally, if you had to describe the Malaysia Airlines advantage for Bangladeshi travellers in one sentence, what would it be?

DA: Malaysia Airlines offers Bangladeshi travellers' seamless connectivity and trusted reliability, elevated by digital convenience and the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality, always with exceptional value at its core.