MAB Academy's Simulator Building Boosts Aviation Training Leadership-- Loke
SEPANG, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has taken a significant step towards strengthening its aviation training ecosystem with the launch of MAB Academy’s Simulator Building here, reinforcing the country’s ambition to become a leading regional aviation hub.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the new facility represents a timely and important investment in Malaysia’s aviation future, and reflects a shared commitment to safety, skills development and long-term industry resilience.
“Malaysia’s strategic geographical position, strong connectivity ambitions and growing demand for air travel place us in a unique position to become a leading aviation hub in the region. This ambition must, nevertheless, be supported by strong human capital and world-class training capabilities.
“As our aviation sector continues to expand, the need for highly skilled pilots, cabin crew, engineers, safety personnel and aviation specialists will only grow. Robust training institutions are essential to ensure that competent, safety-conscious and future-ready professionals underpin this growth,” Loke said in his speech at the launch of the MAB Academy Simulator Building in Sepang here today.
Loke added that the Transport Ministry has consistently emphasised the importance of expanding and elevating aviation training programmes, as training excellence is fundamental to safety, operational quality and global competitiveness.
He said investments in skills and training go beyond meeting industry needs, as they also help nurture a society that values science, critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making, qualities that are central to aviation safety and national development.
The Simulator Building features six full-flight simulator bays, including the A330neo, Boeing 737-800NG and ATR 72-500, along with dedicated training spaces that foster a focused and effective learning environment.
The facility marks the completion of MAB Academy’s transformation from the 40-year-old Subang Training Centre, taking a significant step toward its vision of becoming a one-stop aviation learning centre.
On safety, Loke reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strong regulatory oversight and enforcement via the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), adding that close cooperation between the government, regulators, training institutions and industry players is essential to upholding international standards.
He also underscored the importance of sustainability as a defining priority for the sector, citing the Malaysia Aviation Decarbonisation Blueprint 2024, which sets the framework for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
“This transformation will require not only new technologies, but also a workforce that is trained and equipped to support sustainable aviation practices.
“Through continued collaboration between government, regulators and training providers, Malaysia can strengthen its aviation training infrastructure, reduce reliance on overseas facilities and position itself as an attractive destination for regional and international trainees,” he added.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said the launch marks an important milestone in their long-term transformation journey and supports the five-year Long-Term Business Plan 3.0, which focuses on disciplined, sustainable growth and operational leadership.
“Our focus has always been on preparing aviation professionals for the realities of operations. This facility strengthens that commitment by ensuring that training is relevant, rigorous and grounded in real-world experience,” he said.
The launch of the Simulator Building further cements MAB Academy as a regional training powerhouse, supporting industry growth while contributing to Malaysia’s aspiration to become a global aviation hub.
-- BERNAMA