AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes probably rubbed more than a few people the wrong way when he showed off his brand new Tesla Model Y to his 350k followers on Instagram.
While many congratulated him on his shiny new vehicle, many were equally triggered by this flex. Netizens felt that since the 57-year-old could afford the high-tech car – which costs roughly $55,190 (RM229,315) – he should be able to settle outstanding refunds from AirAsia customers and staff salaries.
Since last year, AirAsia has laid off more than 2,400 employees, including pilots and cabin crew. Hundreds more had to undergo retraining and were relocated to other departments in the company. As of April, there are around 450,000 customers still waiting for their refunds.
Some of the comments left by angry netizens include:
- “Since you can buy a Tesla, why can’t you refund my AirAsia tickets?”
- “Where is my refund? I’ve been waiting a whole year.”
- “Wow, I’m glad the air tickets money that I wasn’t allowed to get back from AirAsia last year thanks to Covid-19 is being put to good use by him.”
- “The man is even more moronic than I thought if he posts photos of himself, boasting about his new luxury car! Who does that at a time when people are suffering financially, many are waiting to have their Air Asia tickets refunded and company employees are waiting to be paid. His arrogance is staggering. I have always flown Air Asia but I’m not sure I will in the future if this is the way the CEO treats people.“
Was Tony Fernandes being insensitive by flaunting his wealth?
