Sepang: 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke highlighted Malaysia's strategic geographical position, strong connectivity ambitions, and the growing demand for air travel as factors positioning the country as a potential leading aviation hub in the region. He emphasized the necessity of supporting this ambition with strong human capital and world-class training capabilities. As the aviation sector continues to expand, the demand for highly skilled pilots, cabin crew, engineers, safety personnel, and aviation specialists is expected to grow, making robust training institutions essential for ensuring competent, safety-conscious, and future-ready professionals.
Loke noted that the Transport Ministry has consistently emphasized the importance of expanding and elevating aviation training programmes, citing training excellence as fundamental to safety, operational quality, and global competitiveness. He pointed out that investments in skills and training not only meet industry needs but also nurture a society that values science, critical thinking, and evidence-based decision-making, which 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 the topic of safety, Loke reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to strong regulatory oversight and enforcement via the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), highlighting the importance of cooperation between the government, regulators, training institutions, and industry players to uphold international standards. He also underscored sustainability as a defining priority for the sector, referencing the Malaysia Aviation Decarbonisation Blueprint 2024, which outlines the framework for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Loke stressed that the transformation towards sustainability will require new technologies and a workforce trained to support sustainable aviation practices. Through continued collaboration between government, regulators, and training providers, Malaysia aims to strengthen its aviation training infrastructure, reduce reliance on overseas facilities, and position itself as an attractive destination for regional and international trainees.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) group managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail described the launch as an important milestone in their long-term transformation journey. It supports the five-year Long-Term Business Plan 3.0, which focuses on disciplined, sustainable growth and operational leadership. He stated that the facility strengthens their commitment to preparing aviation professionals for the realities of operations by ensuring training that is relevant, rigorous, and grounded in real-world experience.
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.