Two weeks ago, the RMAF received three TAI Anka THS drones which are assets to control Malaysia's airspace and seas. Turkiye technology was used because it is among the most advanced in the world of drone technology. At the MyDrone Expo 2026 (MDX2026) event yesterday, Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that Malaysia must move quickly in the development of drone and UAV technology to improve the country's economic position at the global level.
The Prime Minister stated that the drone industry is now a catalyst for innovation, productivity and economic growth, in line with the development of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. He added that the global UAV market is expected to exceed $55 billion by 2030 and the "low altitude" economy is increasingly becoming an important driver of investment.
To seize this opportunity, the PM has instructed cabinet ministers, policymakers, scientific research organizations and all relevant agencies to provide full regulatory and ecosystem support to this industry.
The government is also providing support not only for the military sector but also for public activities such as plantations to increase the country's productivity. The government is also committed to strengthening the regulatory framework, research & development funding, testing and certification to ensure the drone industry grows sustainably.
Finally, the PM called for closer collaboration between the private sector, research institutions and universities to build a strong talent pipeline, in line with the existing AI and quantum computing faculties.
