Malaysia Airlines has entered into a strategic partnership with the Mumbai Indians, joining the franchise as an associate sponsor and official global airline partner. The association aligns with the airline’s broader objective of strengthening its footprint in India while leveraging sport as a powerful platform for international brand engagement.
India continues to be a critical market for Malaysia Airlines, which currently operates around 80 weekly flights connecting 10 major Indian cities to its extensive global network. The partnership announcement was marked by a cultural celebration in Mumbai during Makar Sankranti, where traditional Malaysian Wau Bulan kites were flown at Jio World Gardens. The event was attended by Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene, along with representatives from both organisations, symbolising the cultural exchange at the heart of the collaboration.
Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group, said the partnership is a strategic commercial investment aimed at connecting with India’s highly engaged cricket audience. He noted that by combining the global appeal of the Mumbai Indians with Malaysian Hospitality, the airline seeks to drive brand preference, strengthen loyalty, and stimulate tourism and trade flows between India and Malaysia. He added that the collaboration reinforces Malaysia Airlines’ positioning as a preferred gateway to Asia.
A Mumbai Indians spokesperson said the franchise is proud to partner with Malaysia Airlines, citing shared values of excellence, global reach and meaningful fan engagement. The partnership will allow the team to connect its vast fan base with new travel experiences while celebrating sport, culture and hospitality.
As part of the association, Malaysia Airlines and Mumbai Indians will explore co-branded activations and fan engagement initiatives across platforms. The partnership also aligns with the airline’s wider tourism efforts, including its Bonus Side Trip programme and participation in the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, further strengthening economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
