Malaysian flag carrier Malaysia Airlines has asked some of its frequent flyers how they feel about a replacement of the iconic sarong kebaya uniform worn by flight attendants in favor of a more “modest” alternative, including the optional use of headscarves.
The sarong kebaya uniform, similar in style to what is worn by female flight attendants on Singapore Airlines, has been in use since 1986 and is widely used in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Myanmar.
But as Malaysia moves in a more conservative, Islamic direction, the state-backed airline is considering ditching these iconic uniforms in favor of something more “modest.” A customer survey entitled “Malaysia Airlines Uniform Survey” directed toward members of its loyalty program asks two questions about onboard uniforms.