In a first for the country, a new airline that began operations on Sunday in Malaysia claims to be fully ‘Sharia compliant' and in line with the rules of Islam.
Rayani Air, the Langkawi-based airline, had its homecoming flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Langkawi, followed by its first flight from Langkawi to KLIA2.
The airline began its operations after IT received an air service licence and air operator certificate from the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), Malaysia.
In line with its commitment to follow the rules of Islamic law, "It is compulsory for our Muslim women cabin crew to wear hijab and for non-Muslim to wear a decent uniform,” Rayani Air Managing Director, Jaafar Zamhari, was quoted as saying by Malysian media.
"We also recite doa (prayers) before the departure of each flight,” he added.
The airline also follows a strict 'no-alcohol' policy, and only provides food and beverages that are ‘halal', which is permitted under Islamic law.
Interesting as it may sound, this is not the first airline to have Sharia-based rules and regulations in place for its flights. Three other airlines -- Royal Brunei Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines and Iran Air – also have similar offerings for its passengers.
Currently operating with two Boeing 737 jets, the airline also hopes to offer flights to Mecca for the Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages in the coming years.
