AirAsia to lay off hundreds more employees

KUALA LUMPUR: Low-cost carrier AirAsia Berhad has once again decided to reduce its workforce following the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a source who attended a briefing by AirAsia Berhad CEO Riad Asmat.

Sources added that no detailed figures were given but it involved several hundred AirAsia Berhad employees.

"This is a very difficult decision after a few months we went through a difficult period. Several hundred manpower will be laid off, no detailed figures for now.

"Criteria (who will be laid off) will be announced later. Employees involved will be notified via email within 24 hours.

"I apologize to the workforce involved. You need to stay strong and we will continue to support you in various ways," said the source who quoted Riad.

According to sources, AirAsia will however continue to provide basic assistance such as health care benefits and flight coupons until December 2020 to the affected employees.

"From a business perspective, we have been trying our best to manage the company for the past few months.

"For employees who are not involved, efforts should be increased in carrying out your duties.

"Your salary will also not be deducted," added Riad.

The source informed that the process of downsizing the workforce will take place by the end of this month.

Meanwhile, sources also informed that AirAsia X in a separate briefing session also announced the downsizing of its workforce involving operations, technical and crew.

The process of downsizing the workforce will use the principle of "last in, first out".

The exact number of workers affected was not stated but expected to involve hundreds of workers.

Sources also informed that several hundred workers will also be offered unpaid leave until the situation recovers.

In addition, AirAsia X will review the basic salary of the workforce with only 25 per cent payment.

Sources said the workforce involved will be informed this Thursday including the amount of compensation to be received.