Tony Fernandes, the AirAsia CEO, recently found himself at the center of a social media storm due to a LinkedIn post that depicted him receiving a topless massage in a meeting. The post has since been deleted after sparking heavy criticism.
In the post, Fernandes wrote, “Got to love Indonesia and AirAsia culture that I Can [sic] have a massage and do a management meeting.” The photo showed him in a seemingly unconventional business meeting setup, which included a massage therapist. Fernandes explained that a colleague suggested the massage.
Social media users swiftly criticized the post, with many deeming it unprofessional, inappropriate, and even absurd. Some expressed their surprise that a CEO would publicly share such a photo, questioning the lack of PR vetting. On social platform X (formerly known as Twitter), one user commented, “So unprofessional and disrespectful.”
Fernandes, known for his involvement in various ventures such as owning Queens Park Rangers Football Club and founding the Caterham Formula One Team, is an active social media user. Following the controversy, he posted twice more on LinkedIn, not directly referencing the message post. In one post, he shared his perspective on crisis management, stating, “I’m no stranger to crisis, and I believe it can only make you stronger and wiser. And you know who your friends and supporters are and who would be the first to throw the stone.”
This incident comes as a reminder of the impact of social media and how a single post can lead to public scrutiny and backlash, even for prominent individuals like Tony Fernandes.
Background on Tony Fernandes AirAsia CEO
Tony Fernandes, a Malaysian entrepreneur and the CEO of Capital A Berhad, has been a key figure behind the success of AirAsia. This leading low-cost airline operates in more than 150 destinations across 25 countries. He acquired the airline in 2001 when it was struggling and transformed it into a major player in the regional aviation industry.
Apart from his involvement in the aviation sector, Fernandes has made headlines for his ownership of Queens Park Rangers Football Club and for his role in founding the Caterham Formula One Team. Often compared to other high-profile entrepreneurs like Richard Branson, Fernandes is known for his willingness to engage in publicity stunts, such as a memorable wager with Branson that led to the Virgin founder dressing up as a stewardess on AirAsia flights.
Fernandes, educated at the prestigious Epsom College in the United Kingdom, purchased AirAsia from the Malaysian government for less than $1 in 2001. According to Forbes, his net worth currently stands at $335 million (£275 million), a notable decline from 2014 when he was valued at almost double that amount at $650 million.
The controversy surrounding Tony Fernandes’ LinkedIn post serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism in the digital age, even for prominent business figures. Social media can magnify the impact of a single post, and individuals in leadership positions are increasingly under scrutiny for their online conduct.
As the CEO of a major airline, entrepreneur, and public figure, Tony Fernandes’ actions are not only a reflection of his conduct but also have broader implications. In an age where transparency and integrity are highly valued, how leaders conduct themselves in both public and private settings can have a significant impact on their public image and the organizations they lead.