BY: DR SITI MARIAH MAHMUD
I was shocked and angry when I read the expose of a local English newspaper about the procedures of an airline company, Malindo Air that had asked the interview candidates for the post of stewardess to take off their clothes including their underwear, during the interview session.
The disgusting procedure is obviously excessive and unacceptable. Clearly, this is a form of exploitation and sexual harassment towards women and human rights.
The statement by Malindo Air defending the procedure as ‘normal’ is contrary to the values in our society.
What needs to be within the scope of the profession warrants a staff's ability to provide reasonable service, rather than highlighting sensual outlook.
I urge Malindo Air to apologize to all interview candidates who were asked to do such disgusting act.
I also urge the Ministry for the Development of Women, Family and Community to immediately respond on this issue as it is a clear manifestation of an attempt to exploit women.
The Transport Ministry and Human Resource Ministry must also take immediate action by giving stern warnings and suspend Malindo Air’s operating license as a firm lesson.
In addition, an investigation must be conducted to determine if such despicable procedures have been practiced before. It is important that this kind of sexual harassment to be immediately restrained from continuing to happen.
I urge other women candidates victimised by this interview procedure to come forward and lodge a police report as an added pressure to Malindo Air.
*DR SITI MARIAH MAHMUD IS THE MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT OF AMANAH Kota Raja and is the National AMANAH Woman Leader (AWAN).
