KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 — Aviation regulators including the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) should be involved from the outset in drone pilot projects to expedite execution, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
“I believe regulators like CAAM should be involved in drone pilot projects from the start, as this is a new area and the projects are still in the testing phase rather than commercial operations.
“Having them involved from the outset would help expedite the execution of these projects and avoid regulatory hurdles,” he told reporters after a 2027 Selangor Budget engagement session with state agencies at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today.
During the session, Selangor Aviation and Technology Innovation Sdn Bhd (SELATI) chief executive officer Zannifa Azura Ahmad proposed establishing an advanced air mobility (AAM) sandbox in the state to support drone testing and emerging aviation technologies.
State agencies also moved to secure regulatory support and attract industry players, emphasising the need to work closely with federal agencies, aviation regulators, and industry players to secure approvals and establish operating frameworks before expanding facilities.
Others suggested reviving the Selangor Aviation Show (SAS), which the state is considering.
When asked how the state can improve its overall performance in aerospace, as Selangor anchors Malaysia’s aerospace ecosystem, Amirudin said it would continue boosting the industry to support further growth.
Commenting on key highlights for the 2027 state budget, he said Selangor will keep strengthening initiatives in existing industries including semiconductors, while exploring opportunities in new sub-industries.
Amirudin added that the budget includes greater emphasis on public infrastructure to address issues like road conditions and floods, and to improve the people’s quality of life.
