Malaysia must move fast on drone technologies, says PM

SEPANG: Malaysia must accelerate its adoption and development of new technologies, particularly in the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone industry, to bolster its global economic standing, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar said the drone industry, which intersects with artificial intelligence and digital transformation, has emerged as a powerful catalyst for innovation, productivity, and economic growth.

“If Malaysia wants to become a more successful country in terms of its economy, it must be fast in developing new technologies and fields.

“Drones are related to digital technology and AI, and we need to build an ecosystem that is suitable and reasonable for them,” he said at the MyDrone Expo 2026 (MDX2026) closing ceremony here today.

Co-organised by the World UAV Federation Malaysia Chapter and the Malaysia UAV Development Association, the three-day expo featured more than 100 exhibition booths and attracted thousands of visitors and industry delegates from 46 countries.

Anwar pointed out that the global UAV market is projected to exceed US$55 billion by 2030, and the low-altitude economy is becoming an increasingly important driver of investment.

To seize these opportunities, he directed Cabinet ministers, policymakers, science research establishments and all related agencies to extend full regulatory and ecosystem support to the industry.

“The policy is clear. Drones and the related industry are given full support, not only for the air force and defence industry, but also for civil activities, such as plantations, to enhance productivity,” he said.

To further drive the industry, Anwar said the government is committed to improving the regulatory framework, enhancing research funding, testing and certification.

He also urged closer collaboration between private players, government research establishments and universities to build a robust talent pipeline, similar to existing faculties in AI and quantum computing.