Curtin Malaysia students earn Drone Academy Asia scholarships

Miri, Sarawak – 31 July 2024 – In a significant advancement for the future of drone technology in Malaysia, six exceptional students from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) have been honoured with scholarships from Drone Academy Asia (DAA).

Ir. Dr. Chye Ing Lim, Associate Dean of External Engagement at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science, hailed the scholarship initiative as a milestone in the collaboration between DAA and Curtin Malaysia. This initiative is aimed at cultivating top-tier expertise in drone operations and promote safety standards within the industry.

The scholarship recipients, Moi Hong Shen, Looi Kian John, Kenneth Zheng Yuan Lim Sing Fong, Beckham Wei Jun Ng, and Lai Nuo Yan, will benefit from full coverage of the Training and Certification on the Remote Pilot Competency Programme (Basic).

Ir. Dr. Lim underscored the significance of the RM6,500 per student training conducted from 1 to 5 July 2024 at Curtin Malaysia, emphasising its alignment with the regulatory demands of the Malaysia Civil Aviation Regulations 2016.

“The programme is meticulously designed to equip our students with the essential competencies required by Regulation 140-144, ensuring that drone operators and remote pilots obtain the Remote Pilot Certificate of Competency-Basic (RCoC-B) for lawful Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) operations within the Specific Category,” she explained.

The rigorous course offers comprehensive modules that delve into drone operation responsibilities in Malaysian airspace. It includes detailed coverage of regulations, operating requirements, and critical safety procedures.

“To secure the RCoC-B, students must achieve a minimum of 75 per cent on a theoretical exam and demonstrate proficiency through a practical in-field assessment evaluating their pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight capabilities,” Ir. Dr. Lim added.

The robust partnership between DAA and Curtin Malaysia was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in February this year, ensuring DAA’s commitment to awarding eight scholarships annually to Curtin Malaysia students. This collaboration underscores the mutual dedication to advancing drone technology and enhancing safety protocols in Malaysia.

Curtin Malaysia’s recognition by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) as an approved training site for drone operations further cements its pivotal role in shaping the future of drone education and expertise in the region.

More information on Curtin Malaysia can be found at curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Director of DAA Erin Hoo (left), Chief Pilot Lim Guan Ming (right), lecturers Pang Po Ken (2nd right) and Foad Motalebi (2nd left), alongside scholarship recipients.

Lim Guan Ming (left) presenting a scholarship certificate to Lai Nuo Yan

Looi Kian John receiving his scholarship certificate from Erin Hoo