Tony Fernandes CEO Blog

I had the privilege of watching the semi-finals between our world squash champion Nicol David and Alison Waters last Saturday. It is always a joy to watch Nicol in action; to see her lightning quick moves and superior court-craft.

Nicol was trailing for most of the first set when she caught up at 10-10 and was awarded a let. The set went on evenly to 11-11 and then 12-12. She finally overcame Waters with a 14-12 victory. Nicol fell behind again in the second set, trailing 7-10 but caught up to make it 10-all before winning 12-10. Waters took the third set before Nicol wrapped up the game, 11-7 in the fourth. Excellent play by two talented athletes that kept us on the edge for over an hour!

Nicol covers her bases well. You won’t recognize any signature Nicol moves because she’s a real all-rounder and that makes her tough to beat. But above all I think her biggest strength is her steely mental endurance.

When Nicol is down she does not quiver. She does not sulk or throw tantrums as many racket-sports athletes are wont to do. She is disciplined and single-minded in her goal. And that is to win. This is the hallmark of a true champion.
Another thing about Nicol is that she is that good because she competes with the best. Waters was a formidable opponent and no pushover. Even Nicol admitted that she had to “dig deep” into her reserves to beat Waters. That probably would've made her victory that much sweeter.

We can all learn from winners like Nicol. Never say die even when you’re down and when the prize doesn’t seem within reach. Like running a marathon. Often you just need to suck it in, turn the corner and you’re home free.

I see plenty of talent and potential around me but I am often disappointed by their lack of fighting spirit and self-belief. Sometimes it’s baffling. And yet, Malaysia has fighters like Nicol who compete at international tournaments – no breaks, no concessions.

If only all Malaysians companies were more like Nicol David. We would have many more world champs.

In running an airline there will be high points and low points. It gets pretty low when we hit brick walls when dealing with Malaysia Airlines and Malaysia Airports. At moments like these you do wonder if you got what you bargained for. But then along comes a high moment; a smile, a cheer, a thumbs up, or a note thanking us for making someone’s life better and suddenly, your spirit is revived.

Today I experienced a high moment when I got an email from one of our employees. He joined us as a guest service agent when AirAsia first started out, later enrolling into our first cadet pilot programme. He’s chalked up enough flight hours since and will soon embark on a course to earn his fourth gold bar - to become captain.

Despite all that has been unfairly put before us we will still do our bit to change people’s lives; this note is testament to that.

Hi Boss,

I hope that this email finds you in good spirits and good health.

As I compose this email, I can’t help but smile as I reminisce about the transition from where I was to where I am now, and it would not have been possible without you.

When I first joined AirAsia as one of your pioneer customer service agents, I never ever thought I would someday fly an airplane. After a couple of months in customer service, I eventually moved to the purchasing department where I learned so much and I really enjoyed every minute of it. The opportunities for career advancement in AirAsia is beyond doubt above all expectations.

I also want you to know that things are looking up for me, and after years of flying as a co-pilot , I’ve been given the opportunity to excel further. I’m now in the midst of doing my command course, and if all works well, I’d soon be your man on the left side of the cockpit.

I hope you have a great day boss, and do keep up what you do best, which is to continue doing wonders for the company.


Warm regards,

Literally …“Keeping my head in the clouds and feet on the ground” :)