Malaysia’s Finance Ministry (MoF) has confirmed that it has made no agreement or commitment to provide financial support to AirAsia Bhd, whether through guarantees, loans or injections of public funds.
In a written parliamentary reply published on Monday, the ministry said any request for government support from companies across all sectors would be assessed based on national and public interests, fiscal sustainability and the protection of public funds, in accordance with existing laws and procedures.
The government would not comment on media speculation or reported figures to avoid affecting the market and the interests of the airline’s employees, customers and other stakeholders.
“The government will continue to monitor developments closely, with the interests of the people as its priority,” the ministry said.
The reply was in response to a question from Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong (BN-Ayer Hitam), who asked whether the government was considering providing AirAsia with any guarantees, loans or public funding.
MoF acknowledged concerns surrounding the airline, including losses reported in its latest quarterly financial results.
AirAsia said the losses were mainly attributable to a sharp increase in jet fuel prices following developments in the West Asian conflict.
The ministry added that the government regularly engaged with players across the aviation ecosystem and sought views from industry representatives, technical experts and other parties as part of its monitoring efforts.
Similar consultations were also being conducted for other economic sectors affected by the West Asian crisis.
On September 19, Bernama reported that AirAsia Group Bhd had not held any discussions with the government about a financial bailout and remained confident in its liquidity position and business sustainability.
