TANRI ABENG WAS INDONESIA’S FIRST MINISTER FOR STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISES. HE IS NOW CHAIRMAN OF THE LARGEST LISTED COMPANY IN INDONESIA, PT TELKOM, AS WELL AS PRESIDENT DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL INVESTMENT PARTNER AND PUBLISHER OF GLOBE ASIA

What do you think of the New Mandala?
The most interesting thing I’ve observed of the New Mandala is its focus on safety and service – the two main requirements of the aviation industry. Furthermore, operating only one type of aircraft (Airbus) will create consistent cost efficiencies, which are needed to compete in this era of a liberalised economy. The relationship with Airbus, as the single supplier, enables better cooperation on the basis of partnership. In the end it will also support the maintenance and safety, which can be promoted as an icon to help Mandala beat its competition.

In what way has Mandala benefited corporations during the current global crisis?
For corporate sectors, the main demands are safety, service and on-time performance. In addition, the availability of flight routes to regions with a high economic development potential. The accessibility to regional flights (like SouthEast Asia) will also support the mobility of local business people especially.

What is your view regarding Mandala’s status as the only scheduled private airline withdrawn from the flight ban by the European Union? This means Mandala’s safety standard is recognized as being on par with other airlines operating in Europe.
The predicate of the only scheduled private airline being allowed to fly to European Union countries ought to be used as a measure of reliability, in addition to its high safety standards. However, as in any business, there are dynamics and momentums which need to be well managed. Therefore this momentum should be followed up with fast and sharp business development plans.

CONGRATULATIONS TO MANDALA

Here are just a few of letters received by Mandala Airlines, following its removal from the European Union’s airline ban

I am very pleased to hear such good news, the culmination of all the team’s hard work. Let’s maintain our efforts to always reach high standards. I’m certain Mandala will reach all its goals in the future.
Captain JP Houdin, Airbus Training Center, Toulouse, France

This achievement shows that the high level of commitment to safety standards implemented by Mandala is comparable to any major airlines operating in Europe. This is a good example of solid teamwork between shareholders, employees and management.
Nurmaria Sarosa, Executive Chairwoman, Indonesian Corporate Secretary Association (ICSA)

Thank you for this excellent news. Congratulations to everyone at Mandala who focused their efforts to make this happen. We look forward to a long and successful relationship with Mandala.
Edward Cislo, Bangkok, Thailand

On behalf of Marsh Aviation I would like to congratulate Mandala for this excellent achievement. We wish you many successful years to come. Many thanks for sharing this joyful news with us.
Mirza Azis, Aviation & Aerospace