Regretful LinkedIn Post: Airline CEO Shares Shirtless Pic and Faces Consequences

LinkedIn is a platform known for endorsements, job leads, and motivational industry articles. However, it seems the head of AirAsia, Tony Fernandes, took a different approach. In a somewhat misguided attempt to showcase the perks of working for the airline, Fernandes posted a picture on LinkedIn of himself receiving a topless rubdown during a business meeting. “Was a stressful week,” he wrote on Monday, accompanied by the photo. “Got to love Indonesia and AirAsia culture that I can have a massage and do a management meeting.” The photo shows Fernandes with a masseuse working on his shoulders and upper back while wearing a face mask. You can view the photo here.

Described by the BBC as “Malaysia’s answer to Richard Branson,” the 59-year-old Fernandes faced immediate backlash and ridicule from the working world due to the controversial photo. Online commenters used words like “unprofessional,” “inappropriate,” and “absurd” to critique the image. Some even suggested that CEOs like Fernandes should refrain from using LinkedIn altogether. One comment brought attention to the discomfort the photo may cause for AirAsia’s female employees, expressing concern for their safety and comfort in such a context. This commenter noted that as the boss, they may not feel comfortable challenging or addressing the issue with Fernandes.

In response, Fernandes explained to Bloomberg that he had just gotten off an 18-hour flight and was feeling achy. A colleague had suggested the massage, prompting him to share the moment on LinkedIn. He stated, “You can never really explain the thought process behind a post, so I deleted it. I didn’t mean to offend anyone.” Bloomberg also acknowledged that Fernandes is not one to adhere strictly to protocol. While many were critical, there were some who supported Fernandes, applauding his boldness and embracing his post as a statement representative of the body positivity movement.