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, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic).
The Prime Minister said the drone industry, which intersects with artificial intelligence (AI) 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 during the closing of the MyDrone Expo 2026 (MDX2026).
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, attracting thousands of visitors and industry delegates from 46 countries.
Anwar said the global UAV market is projected to exceed US$55bil (RM225bil) by 2030, while the low-altitude economy is becoming an increasingly important driver of investment.
To seize these opportunities, the Prime Minister has directed the Cabinet, policymakers, science research establishments and 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, Bernama reported.
To further drive the industry, Anwar said the government is committed to improving the regulatory framework and enhancing research funding, testing and certification.
He also urged closer collaboration between private players, government research establishments as well as universities to build a robust talent pipeline, similar to existing faculties in AI and quantum computing.
