Aviation safety takes centre stage as Sarawak positions itself for drone-driven future

Miri, Sarawak – 6 April 2026 – Sarawak is accelerating its ambitions to lead Malaysia’s emerging low-altitude economy, with safety, talent development and cross-sector collaboration taking centre stage at the Low Altitude Economy (LAE) Seminar 2026 held recently at the Imperial Hotel here

Officiating the seminar, Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin underscored the transformative potential of drone technology, autonomous systems and aerial data solutions, but cautioned that growth must be anchored in strong governance and a robust safety culture.

“The low-altitude economy offers immense opportunities for Sarawak, but without disciplined regulation and structured development, we risk undermining its long-term sustainability,” he said. “Our education institutions are critical in building the skilled workforce needed to support this fast-evolving sector.”

He highlighted the role of Curtin University Malaysia, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, i-CATS University College and CENTEXS as key partners in developing industry-ready talent through research collaboration, industry-linked programmes and future-focused curricula.

“Through research collaboration, curriculum development, and industry-linked training programme, we can establish a sustainable pipeline of expertise within Sarawak,” he stated.

The seminar brought together more than 300 participants, including policymakers, aviation regulators, industry leaders and researchers, reflecting growing national momentum behind drone innovation and its economic potential. They included students of Curtin University Malaysia, ADTEC JTM Kampus Miri, Institut Latihan Perindustrian (ILP) Miri, Institut Kemahiran Belia Negara (IKBN) Miri, and Kolej Vokasional Miri, along with members of the public.

Jointly organised by the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS), the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and Curtin University Malaysia, the event signals deepening collaboration between government, academia and industry to ensure the safe and scalable adoption of drone technologies.

Among those in attendance were Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil, MOTS Permanent Secretary Datu Wong Hee Sieng, CAAM Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Captain Norazman Mahmud, and Curtin Malaysia Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen.

Themed ‘Advancing the Low Altitude Economy: Safe, Smart, and Sustainable Growth,’ the seminar featured a strong line-up of industry experts, including representatives from CAAM, Drone Academy Asia, SD Guthrie Research Sdn Bhd, DJI Enterprise, Futurise Sdn Bhd and Aerodyne Group, who shared insights on regulatory frameworks, technological advancements and real-world applications.

A key highlight was a high-level forum on ‘The Future of the Low Altitude Economy in Malaysia,’ where panellists explored how drones are reshaping sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure inspection, logistics and disaster response.

An accompanying exhibition showcased cutting-edge drone technologies and solutions from leading organisations, including CAAM, Curtin Malaysia Drone Club, Aonic Malaysia, Droneskaki, Tekgra Sdn Bhd, Fly Zone Enterprise, and Aerodyne Group, giving participants hands-on exposure to innovations driving the sector forward.

As Sarawak looks to position itself at the forefront of this new economic frontier, the seminar reinforced a clear message: the future of aviation innovation will depend not only on technology – but on safety, skills and strong partnerships.

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Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin (seated, 4th right) and Datuk Dr Jerip Susil (seated, 3rd left) join distinguished guests, organisers and participants for a group photo.

Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin (7th left) presenting a souvenir to Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, witnessed by Datuk Dr Jerip Susil (5th left) and other dignitaries.

Curtin Malaysia’s Foad Motalebi moderating the forum session, ‘The Future of the Low Altitude Economy in Malaysia,’ featuring industry experts.

Curtin Malaysia students engaging with drone technologies during a visit to the Tekgra exhibition booth.