KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines has confirmed that flight MH79 from Hong Kong to Kuala Lumpur was diverted to the Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Vietnam.
In a statement, Malaysia Airlines said the flight was diverted due to a technical issue encountered during cruising.
"In the interest of safety, the pilot in command decided to divert to ensure the issue was rectified before proceeding to the intended destination, Kuala Lumpur.
"At no time was safety compromised."
Malaysia Airlines said the flight carrying 147 passengers and seven crew landed safely in Vietnam at 10.40am local time.
"Passengers are currently being reallocated to alternative carriers to ensure they reach their destinations while some are accommodated at hotels near the airport.
"Malaysia Airlines deeply regrets the inconvenience and disruptions to our passengers' travel plans," it said adding safety remains its number one priority.
Earlier, FlightRadar indicated that MH79 was diverted to Ho Chi Minh.
In August, Malaysia Aviation Group announced it would temporarily reduce flights for Malaysia Airlines amid a string of disruptions.
Then, MAG managing director Datuk Captain Izham Ismail said the reduction in its network was needed to execute corrective measures to ensure the long-term reliability of its fleet and minimise disruptions.