KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian aviation industry must prioritise collaboration, adapt swiftly to the evolving landscape and stay ahead of technological advancements, said the Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom).
Mavcom hosted a seminar on aviation consumer protection entitled "The Road to Strengthening Consumer Rights in Malaysia and Shaping the Next Era of Aviation Regulations".
It was held in conjunction with the International Civil Aviation Negotiations (ICAN) 2024 event hosted by the Transport Ministry.
During the seminar, Mavcom director of consumer and public affairs Pushpalatha Subramaniam highlighted several critical aspects of advancing aviation consumer protection.
"There is a need for industry collaboration, agility in adapting to the evolving aviation landscape, and keeping pace with technological advancements.
"Policy and regulations alone are insufficient, the industry has to aim for self-regulation to maintain transparency and accountability in the quality of service they deliver," she said in a statement today.
The panel session also discussed pressing issues.
This included the need for international aviation laws and frameworks to evolve in order to strengthen consumer protection, improve accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and address challenges such as the regulation of online travel agents across various regulatory landscapes.
Furthermore, the session explored the roles and perspectives of aviation regulatory bodies in enhancing consumer protection while balancing operational costs and regulatory compliance across various regions.
Meanwhile, Mavcom executive chairman Datuk Seri Saripuddin Kasim said ICAN2024 provides a significant platform for member states to negotiate on aviation agreements.
He added that Mavcom's seminar complements these discussions by focusing on the protection of air travellers' interests – a shared priority among key stakeholders of the aviation industry.
"The discourse has been productive, identifying key challenges and areas of concern, as well as opportunities, and key action items that the industry should prioritise.
"Although much progress has been made in the realm of consumer protection, there remains work to be done.
"Through continued dialogue at events such as this seminar and a commitment to mutual learning, we can ensure that aviation consumer protection continues to progress," he said.
The event brought together local and international participants both in person and online.
They included representatives from relevant ministries, government and enforcement agencies, as well as aviation regulators, airlines, airport operators and international aviation associations.