Most people today would recognise Ziana Zain as one of Malaysia’s most successful singers. Alongside her brother, Anuar Zain, she has achieved significant milestones in her career. However, before the siblings became superstars, did you know that both of them were once flight attendants for Malaysia Airlines (MAS)? Not only that but the veteran artist didn’t believe that she had what it took when she was first offered the job.
During a recent episode of the Borak Dalam Galley podcast, Ziana Zain recalled the time when she accompanied her cousin for a walk-in interview for MAS. “I was happy with my job at the time but I thought ‘Why not?’. I wasn’t really expecting anything but then I got a second interview on the same day,” she said.
The singer explained that she didn’t think she had what it took to become a stewardess, when she compared her appearance to the other candidates, whom she believed were more beautiful. “I didn’t expect them to call my name by the third round of interviews. So when I sat down, they told me I had been accepted and would proceed with the training. I didn’t believe them and asked if they were sure. I was still in shock when I left the room, and when my friend asked me, I said, ‘I got the job.'”
Ziana expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, noting that it was not an easy job to secure. She put in the effort during both her training and flying days. “Thankfully, my brother Anuar gave me some tips as well as he was my senior. He highlighted some important things I have to remember and focus on during my training,” she added.
During the same episode, the artist also shared some of her most memorable experiences while on duty. She recalled an incident when a passenger rummaged through the flight’s cabinets in search of beer, refusing to believe they were out of the beverage. She also recounted turning down an invitation to go out for a drink with her colleagues. “If you want to drink, it’s your choice, but I don’t drink. We’re still friends, I don’t judge,” she said firmly.
Reflecting on her entire career as a cabin crew member, Ziana Zain expressed her gratitude for the memories and experiences. After three years in the industry, she ventured into music when music producer Rahim Othman recruited her, shortly after she won Bintang Selangor in 1984.
Watch the full interview below:
Source: YouTube
