Malaysia Airlines (Kuala Lumpur) yesterday (December 12) revealed one of its aircraft with the original livery it featured on October 1, 1972, to commemorate its 40 years of Malaysian Hospitality delivery to air travellers. The Malaysia Airlines’ Boeing 737-800 was re-painted in full colors of the first ever aircraft that took to the skies four decades ago.

The original livery has the logo featuring the Kelantan wau bulan or moon kite in a red circle, representing controlled flight and also a fine expression of the many mythologies associated with Malaysia.  To complement the logo then, the national carrier sported the colors of the Jalur Gemilang on the aircraft, where red, the dominant color was used for the two stripes across the body as in the flag. Blue was used for the words of the airline’s name with white for the background. The stylized kite, the dominant theme, was fast recognized round the world  for achieving the dual impression of movement and modernity and most importantly identifying the Malaysian flag carrier to travellers around the world.

Named the ‘Retro Livery’, the aircraft was revealed at a special function at KL International Airport (KLIA) today graced by Malaysia Airlines, Chairman, Tan Sri Md Nor Yusof and Malaysia Airlines, Group CEO Encik Ahmad Jauhari Yayha as well as some distinguished guests from the aviation industry and a good number of Malaysia Airlines’ staff.

The function was filled with a nostalgic atmosphere that brought out the feeling of inspiration amongst all that attended. Various staff recorded their MH stories which had elements of gratitude, hard work, satisfaction, friendship and most of all the lesson of hope against all odds. It was evident from the staff’ speeches that they valued their association with Malaysia Airlines throughout the years.

The retro livery aircraft is set to soar the skies starting on December 13, beginning with flights to Jakarta and Bangkok, two popular Malaysia Airlines’ destinations. To further enhance customer experience on-board, Malaysia Airlines has also introduced new in-flight meal presentations for flights operated by this exclusive aircraft. The menus are designed by Malaysia Airlines’ chef wearing their retro toques while looking back to identify the popular dishes of yester-years. This special menu consists of evergreen Malaysia Airlines’ dishes that will not fail to tantalise the tastebuds of customers.

There will also be a special surprise for passengers on MH711 and MH782 which will be operated using this retro livery aircraft to Jakarta and Bangkok respectively on December 13, 2012 from KLIA. Malaysia Airlines’ top management members will be present at the boarding gates to greet and hand-out surprise gifts to all passengers. All this and more are to reward and appreciate customers for their continuous support towards Malaysia Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines has played a significant role in the development of the nation, Malaysia and it was for this very reason, it was formed 40 years ago. While it has notched 65 years in aviation  which is shared together with Singapore Airlines, 40 years marks an important milestone in the history of Malaysia and Malaysians. As this calls for a definite celebration. Malaysia Airlines ushers in the New Year of 2013 in conjunction with the 40th year of its flight code ‘MH’, with its staff making a conscious commitment and resolution in each of their work areas, to come together, to be united and to be a team for a much stronger, revitalized, re-energised and sustainably profitable Malaysia Airlines. A strong Malaysia Airlines also reflects on the strength that brings the staff together on a commitment to serve customers better and better each day.

Malaysian Airline System-MAS (today operating as Malaysia Airlines) commenced operations on April 3, 1971.

Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Boeing 737-8H6 9M-MXA (msn 40128) arrives at Bangkok on the first day of operations in the retrojet colors.

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