Maybank suggests that ailing MAS be taken private

A MALAYSIAN investment bank has suggested that beleaguered national carrier Malaysia Airlines (MAS) be taken private given the impoverishment of its oversold stock.

In a research note yesterday, Maybank Investment Bank said the possible privatisation of MAS would cost its nearly 70 per cent shareholder Khazanah Nasional RM1.18 billion (S$455.3 million), assuming a 10 per cent premium on its current share price.

"Further assuming that the profitable businesses are spun off and separately listed later with Khazanah ceding a 30 per cent stake, Khazanah would get back RM1.25 billion in cash," the investment bank said.