Upclose with Nita Malek
Chairwoman of Board of Airline Representatives (BAR) Malaysia
Nita Malek, 54, started her career in banking in 1995 but found her true passion in aviation 10 months later when she joined Malaysia Airlines (MH) as a Management Trainee.
There has been no turning back since, with the opportunity to take on diverse roles across multiple portfolios, each responsibility providing invaluable insights. She was with Network Development, Customer Research and Insights, Government Sales, Internal Audit, Programme Management Office, and Operations, allowing her to develop a well-rounded understanding of the aviation industry.
Nita held her current position as Malaysia Aviation Group’s (MAG) Senior Manager of Government and Industry Relations at, MH’s parent company, since October 2020. With nearly three decades in this industry, her journey has been one of continuous learning and growth. Earning her stripes in the industry, she was appointed Chairwoman of BAR Malaysia in 2023 to represent scheduled airlines with permanent representation in the country, and reappointed in 2025 for another two-year term.
Since BAR Malaysia’s formation in the early 1970s, have there been any other Chairwomen before you?
I am humbled to be the first woman to serve this top position, reflecting the growing role of women in leadership within the aviation industry. I embrace this responsibility with dedication and remain committed to advancing the progress and success of BAR Malaysia and the aviation sector as a whole.
What are the challenges like?
When navigating in a traditionally male-dominated industry, establishing credibility and ensuring representation at decision-making tables requires one to exude resilience and confidence. Another key challenge I face when advocating for airline interests in a highly regulated environment is balancing the needs of the various stakeholders, ranging from government authorities, regulatory bodies to industry players.
All this requires diplomacy, strategic negotiation, and a deep understanding of both local and global aviation policies. All the more so with the aviation sector constantly evolving, shaped by economic fluctuations, regulatory changes, and sustainability commitments.
Ensuring that BAR Malaysia remains proactive in addressing these developments, while supporting member airlines in adapting to new challenges remains top priority for me. Despite these challenges, I see significant opportunities to foster inclusivity and innovation within the industry. I am committed to driving positive change, strengthening industry collaboration, and ensuring the collective voice of member airlines in Malaysia is effectively represented.
How do you plan to achieve them under your leadership?
My primary goal is to strengthen BAR Malaysia’s role as a unified and influential voice for member airlines operating in the country. I aim to enhance collaboration among member airlines, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders to foster a more conducive and sustainable aviation ecosystem.
A key priority is advocating for policies that support airline growth, operational efficiency, and an improved passenger experience. This includes working closely with authorities to ensure fair regulations, competitive airport charges, and seamless connectivity that benefits both the industry and travellers.
As environmental concerns take centre stage, I seek to advance discussions and initiatives that align with global sustainability goals while ensuring the industry’s long- term commercial viability.
How big is your team and what is BAR Malaysia’s current membership?
I am supported by a dedicated team of seven committee members. BAR Malaysia comprises 59 members representing 32 scheduled airlines. We are delighted to welcome Air India as our latest member, further strengthening our collective voice in the aviation industry.
What are some of the key issues affecting the international civil aviation industry in Malaysia that are addressed by BAR Malaysia?
A primary concern among members is the increasingly complex regulatory landscape, particularly in consumer- related matters and rising industry costs. For instance, the evolving Malaysian Aviation Consumer Protection Code requires airlines to adapt to new compliance measures while balancing operational efficiency and cost management. Similarly, the introduction of the e-Invoice system presents challenges due to the complexity of ticketing, fare structures, and international taxation.
BAR Malaysia, in collaboration with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), plays a crucial role in facilitating discussions between regulators and airlines to ensure smooth implementation and minimise disruptions.
Another pressing concern is the rising cost of aviation- related fees, taxes and charges, which directly impact airline operations and passenger costs.
Increases in Passenger Service Charges and air navigation charges add to the financial pressures, while globally, new travel and tourism related taxes-cum-rising airport charges present further challenges. In this respect, BAR Malaysia engages with the regulators and stakeholders to advocate for fair and balanced policies that consider both consumer interests and airline sustainability.
What are some recent representations BAR Malaysia made to organisations and authorities on aviation- related matters?
We engaged with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia on the implementation of the e-Invoice system, working alongside with IATA to address compliance and operational challenges specific to international ticketing, fare structures, and tax regulations.
Looking ahead, we will be engaging with the authorities on the implementation of the Advance Passenger Screening System to ensure a seamless rollout that enhances security protocols while minimising disruptions to airline operations. These engagements reflect our commitment to advocating for a regulatory framework that supports industry growth and operational efficiency.
What are some of BAR Malaysia’s collaborations with Malaysia Airports?
Working closely with our key industry stakeholder, Malaysia Airports, to ensure the smooth operation of our member airlines, we focus on maintaining open communication, addressing industry challenges, and enhancing Malaysia’s aviation landscape.
Malaysia Airports, on the other hand, regularly participates in BAR Malaysia meetings, providing briefings on their latest updates, initiatives, and developments to keep our member airlines informed on critical matters such as airport operations, infrastructure upgrades, passenger service enhancements, and regulatory changes. They also facilitate direct discussions with airlines, thus fostering greater transparency and collaboration in resolving operational concerns.
How does the BAR Malaysia work with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture’s (MOTAC) agency, Tourism Malaysia, to promote the country and its Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign?
Our collaboration focuses on enhancing Malaysia’s visibility and accessibility to the international travellers by ensuring that airlines are well-aligned with TourismMalaysia’s goals and initiatives. In the past, BAR Malaysia engaged with MOTAC to introduce policies that encouraged travel post-pandemic and advocated for the use of tourism tax funds to improve aviation- related facilities.
Our member airlines also worked with MOTAC on promotional activities, events, and marketing efforts to showcase Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse tourism offerings to global audiences. Through this partnership, we aim to make the VM2026 campaign a success and further elevate Malaysia’s position as a top destination for international travellers.
As MAG’s Senior Manager of Government and Industry Relations, who do you deal with mainly and what are your areas of cooperation?
Besides MOTAC, we engage with other key ministries such as the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, andtheMinistryofNaturalResources,Environment,and Sustainability. Each ministry plays a vital role in shaping policies that impact the aviation industry, from regulatory frameworks and economic policies to sustainability and tourism development.
Besides collaborating with airports and aviation authorities both in Malaysia and globally to ensure seamless operations, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure development, we also work closely with embassies and diplomatic missions worldwide to facilitate air travel, support international relations, and address industry challenges.
Our goal is to build and maintain strong partnerships with all stakeholders, ensuring a thriving aviation sector that drives economic growth, enhances connectivity, and reinforces Malaysia’s position as a key aviation hub.
What is your advice for women aspiring to enter the aviation industry?
Having witnessed the evolution of the aviation industry and the growing opportunities for women in this dynamic field, my advice to them is to be bold, resilient, and adaptable. Aviation is fast-paced, ever-changing, and highly competitive, but it is also incredibly rewarding.
Firstly, build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. Whether in operations, commercial, engineering, or regulatory affairs, continuous learning and staying informed about industry trends will set you apart.
Secondly, cultivate a strong network. As a global industry, aviation connections with industry professionals, mentors, and peers can open doors to opportunities and provide invaluable guidance throughout your career. Thirdly, embrace challenges and obstacles with confidence, perseverance, and professionalism. A results-driven approach will earn you credibility and respect.
Lastly, never be afraid to take on leadership roles. The aviation industry is evolving, and diversity in leadership is crucial for progress. Women bring unique perspectives and strengths that can drive meaningful change. Believe in your abilities, seek mentorship, and continue pushing boundaries. As the saying goes, “The sky is not the limit, it is just the beginning.”