Malaysia Airlines has confirmed it will cooperate with relevant authorities following reports that one of its pilots was arrested in Jakarta for allegedly smuggling 26kg of MDMA while on duty.
The airline said it would not comment further as the matter was still under investigation but stressed that it does not tolerate any form of misconduct involving its employees.
In a statement, Malaysia Airlines said it was also conducting an internal review regarding the incident and would take appropriate action based on the findings.
Indonesian authorities reportedly arrested the Malaysian pilot, aged 39, at Jakarta’s main airport on Wednesday after he arrived on a Malaysia Airlines flight from Kuala Lumpur.
According to reports, the pilot, identified by the initials MS, was accused of bringing a suitcase containing MDMA into Jakarta after allegedly being offered RM50,000 by an unidentified individual.
Indonesian customs officials said the pilot had been named a criminal suspect and was believed to have acted as a courier in the alleged drug smuggling operation.
A urine test also reportedly found traces of cocaine and methamphetamine, with Indonesian authorities confirming that discussions with Malaysian agencies were ongoing.
Malaysia Airlines said it remained committed to maintaining strict standards of professionalism, safety and integrity, while allowing the investigation process to take its course.
Indonesia enforces strict drug laws, with severe penalties imposed on individuals convicted of drug trafficking offences.
