AirAsia has announced the appointment of Tharumalingam a/l Kanagalingam, also known as Bo Lingam as its Acting Chief Executive Officer. The decision comes post stepping down of its CEO and Executive Chairman over bribery allegations.
Bo Lingam joined AirAsia in 2001 as a Ground Operations Manager, responsible for the implementation of the low-cost concept in operations and procurement. Since then, he has held several key positions including Purchasing and Supplies Senior Manager, Regional Guest Services Director and President and Group Chief Operations Officer, supervising and driving process improvements in AirAsia’s operations in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, India and Japan. Bo Lingam was also instrumental in setting up new airlines in the region for the Group.
Prior to joining AirAsia, and upon completing his Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia, Bo Lingam has worked extensively in the publication and music industry at various production houses, including as Production Controller at EMI Music Malaysia as well as Operations Manager and Promotions Manager at Warner Music Malaysia.
AirAsia has commented on bribery allegations on the company and said,” AirAsia is deeply concerned that these allegations will have an adverse and negative impact on the AirAsia brand, reputation and goodwill.” Adding to that the company said, “ AirAsia is monitoring developments in this matter and will review any allegations or negative inferences concerning or affecting AirAsia and/or any of its executives and will fully cooperate with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and the relevant authorities where required.”
