PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is expected to unveil its blueprint for the low-altitude economy (LAE) by the end of the year, providing a clear framework to regulate and support the emerging sector, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
He said the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is drawing up the blueprint and the government hopes to launch it during Transport Expo Asia (TXA), organised by the Transport Ministry, later this year.
"We hope to announce the blueprint by the end of this year. Our hope is that a clear roadmap for the LAE can be launched during the expo," he told reporters after launching the LAE Forum 2026 on Wednesday (June 24).
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Loke said the forum, organised by CAAM, marked the beginning of a national agenda to explore opportunities in low-altitude aviation technologies, including unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), advanced air mobility (AAM) and air logistics.
"When we talk about LAE, we are not just talking about new technology.
"We are talking about technologies that can improve productivity, strengthen service delivery, open up new economic opportunities and benefit the people," he said.
He noted that drone usage had become increasingly common, ranging from media operations and agriculture to emergency response and firefighting.
"There are many applications for these technologies. In other countries, drones are used not only for transporting passengers and cargo, but also for rescue missions and firefighting operations in highrise buildings. Even in our villages and agricultural areas, drone usage is becoming more widespread," he said.
Loke stressed that safety would remain the government's foremost concern as more advanced technologies such as electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft enter the market.
"Whatever we want to implement in this field must be safe for everyone. Anything that flies in our airspace must obtain approval from CAAM. Safety is the most important aspect," he said.
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He said Malaysia currently lacked specific regulations governing the sector, making it necessary to establish a clear framework for industry players and investors.
"Previously, we did not have any regulations or guidelines on how the LAE should develop. That is why we need a clear roadmap so that companies bringing in new technologies know how to operate them in Malaysia," he said.
On the sector’s economic potential, Loke said his ministry’s role was to facilitate growth, while projections on gross domestic product contributions and investment would be handled by the Economy Ministry and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry.
"Our role is that of an enabler. We want to create the right ecosystem and environment for investments to materialise. The LAE requires a whole-of-government approach. We cannot do this alone," he said.
LAE is an emerging sector comprising industrial and commercial activities in airspace levels of up to 1,000m driven by advancements in drone, UAS and eVTOL technologies
