In Hilary term, the Oxford University Malaysia Club had the privilege of hosting Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, founder and Group CEO of Air Asia, at our event entitled ‘High Flyers: Pioneering Low Cost Travel in Asia’. This programme was jointly organized with the Oxford Union and Oxford Entrepreneurs. Tan Sri Tony spoke in the debate chamber of the Oxford Union to an audience of about 150 students.

His talk provided a personal insight into the highly acclaimed success story of Air Asia. With his unique style and sense of humour, Tan Sri Tony emphasized the importance of ‘daring to dream’, highlighting the many challenges faced by the airline from its inception, and its journey to becoming the international brand name that it is today. He also drew on his wide experience in other business areas, inter alia as chairman of English Premier League squad Queens Park Rangers and principal of the Caterham Formula 1 Team. Tan Sri Tony then fielded questions and mingled with members of the audience.

The talk was followed by a dinner reception at St. Anne’s College, attended by the Principal, Mr. Tim Gardam, together with senior tutors and representatives from the three student societies. The OUMC wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to Tan Sri Tony Fernandes for taking time off his busy schedule to speak at Oxford, and to St. Anne’s College for their strong support in organizing the event.