Walking along the sleek structures of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) a day after the announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak that Malaysian Airlines (MAS) flight MH370 ended in the southern Indian Ocean, one could not help but notice the heavy air of sadness that clung to it.

Strangers who would normally nod at each other politely, walked along with lowered heads without acknowledging anyone.

The staff at the check in counters barely smiled, performing their tasks dutifully.

The sombre mood was so infectious that even children who came to send off their parents or relatives seemed to have lost a skip in their steps.

Despite the melancholic air and the unfortunate incident, the airline’s passengers continued boarding the planes to their respective destinations without hesitation.

One of them is Shahrul Azhar Shahriman Shah, a 40-year-old investment advisor.

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Shahrul Azhar Shahriman Shah, Passenger, MAS

He said the incident could have happened to any airline.

“Unfortunately, it happened to MAS. When it happens, we could do nothing but offer our prayers,” he said.

Shahrul, however said the incident did not shake his faith in MAS.

“No one person will ever say MAS is not safe. It is safe. Insya Allah,” he said when met at KLIA.

Echoing his sentiment is Norfazrina Mohd Hazari who said MAS will still be her number one choice when flying.

“MAS is still my number one choice. There is no two ways about it. I will continue to support the airline,” she said.

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Norfazrina Mohd Hazari, Passenger, MAS

Muhd Nuur Fitri Harun said he has no doubt about MAS’ credibility.

“I have no problem flying with MAS. I am not scared, not upset. I have no doubt about MAS’ credibility,” he said.