MAS under probe, says deputy PM

MAS under probe, says deputy PM

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuter): The government has initiated an inquiry into Malaysia Airline System Bhd (MAS) after reports that the state carrier's service has deteriorated due to lack of staff, Deputy Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said yesterday.

The Malay-language Berita Harian newspaper reported on Saturday that shortage of pilots and cabin crew members was affecting MAS service. Anwar told a news conference that he had asked the transport ministry to conduct an inquiry.

"Let's get the report from the transport minister first," Anwar was quoted as saying by the national Bernama news agency in response to questions on how the government would react to the problem.

Bernama said Transport Minister Ling Liong Sik had acknowledged the Berita Harian report, saying he had heard of such complaints.