Muslim fashion icon Neelofa joins AirAsia as non-executive director

AirAsia has appointed Muslim fashion entrepreneur Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor as the low-cost airline’s non-executive independent director.

“She is a great addition to the board. Her experience as an entrepreneur, a brand creator and an industry disruptor will be invaluable to AirAsia, and she will be able to provide fresh insights into our business as we transform into a digital airline,” Air Asia CEO Tony Fernandes.

He went on to state that Neelofa is a “super smart, young and independent”, which he said would help AirAsia stay ahead, as it works towards becoming one of the best performing and most trusted companies globally.

“Her reputation as Malaysia’s leading businesswomen, one of the few Malaysians named by Forbes Asia in their 30 Under 30, and her track record in championing women in business is an inspiration to us. I look forward to working with Neelofa,” he added.

Muslim female pilots from AirAsia and AirAsia X have donned the white Naelofar Hijab that is specifically tailored to meet their workday needs.

“This is not only an achievement for me, but for all women out there. For the past 7 years, I have explored both the entertainment and business industries which have presented me with so many opportunities to grow and to transform. I’m excited to take on this brand new role, to challenge myself to go further and also to grow as a person,” Neelofa Mohd Noor.

According to AirAsia, Neelofa has built up a business empire around her Naelofar Hijab, with sales reportedly on track to hit RM200 million this year.

The brand is said to be available in 37 countries, including the US, UK, France, Australia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore and Brunei.

Aireen who is also AirAsia CEO and executive director, and Tharumalingam who is AirAsia deputy group CEO of operations will keep their current executive positions.