Discourse on drone technology in Malaysia

PEKAN, 15 August 2023 - Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) held a knowledge discourse programme titled ‘Drone Technology in Malaysia: Are We Ready?’

The programme organised by the Research and Innovation Department was a proactive step by the university in deepening knowledge about the new horizon of drone technology towards the economic development sector in the country.

The discourse was specially delivered by the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Aerodyne Group, Mr Kamarul A Muhamed.

Aerodyne Group is a world-leading drone services leader and a pioneer in using local artificial intelligence (AI).

The programme was attended by the Chairman of the University Board of Directors, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Abdul Aziz Abdul Rahman.

Also present were the UMPSA Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation), Professor Ts. Dr. Kamal Zuhairi Zamli and Registrar/Chief Operating Officer, Dato’ Saiful Bahri Ahmad Bakarim.

In his speech, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Abdul Aziz Abdul Rahman emphasised the importance of exploring new perspectives on drone technology, especially to researchers within the university, to be applied in their research.

There was also a discussion to explore collaborative opportunities to enhance new knowledge and promote the drone technology industry in Malaysia by producing more technologists and skilled technicians in the field of drone technology.

According to Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Abdul Aziz, this effort aligns with the rapid use of drones in various industries, especially in agriculture, creative media and data analytics.

“In addition, UMPSA will adapt the use of these drones including collaborating with the industry around Gebeng to increase accessibility to providing commercial solutions such as agriculture, construction, infrastructure, telecommunications, mining and more.

“Besides, the synergy between the two parties will enable the university to play a role in utilising technology for the community in line with the UMPSA Strategic Plan 2021-2025 to develop the most innovative and effective solutions,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Kamarul also shared his success as a pioneer in this field, especially drone services and data management in the field of DT3 (Drone Technology, Data Technology & Digital Transformation).

He emphasised 4 important things including conducive tech ecosystem, deep tech of the future, for example, quantum technology, world class talents and global aspirations.

He also advised students always to use critical and creative thinking skills to improve their ability to thrive.

He said, “We do the right things, think differently.”

“Creativity can produce innovations that are ideas or ways to improve processes to be more effective or attractive.

“Through innovation, we must also use our creative minds and high imagination.

“These two elements are indispensable to lead the country towards progress and competitiveness,” he said.

Aerodyne Group started with just three employees; to date, it has grown and has over 1,000 employees.

The company has expanded its capabilities globally by having offices in Australia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, the United Kingdom (UK) and Denmark.

A total of 100 university residents among researchers and students attended this knowledge sharing programme.

By: Mimi Rabita Haji Abdul Wahit And Nur Ainaa Adhreena Muhammad Syukri, Centre for Corporate Communications

Translation by: Dr.  Rozaimi  Abu  Samah, Faculty  of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology