Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish Malaysia’s first 5G-powered unmanned aerial system sandbox for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.
The collaboration marks a significant step in integrating 5G and artificial intelligence (AI) to enable real-time unmanned aerial systems and accelerate innovation across key sectors such as agriculture, urban mobility, robotics and healthcare.
Deputy Minister of Digital Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, who witnessed the signing, said the Ministry remains committed to fostering whole-of-society innovation and creating practical platforms for students, researchers, startups and regulators to test and scale emerging technologies.
“What once sounded like science fiction is now within reach. With the right ecosystem in place – one that is safe, structured and well-regulated, we can transform unmanned aerial systems and vehicles from experimental tools into practical solutions for public benefit,” said Wilson.
Under the MoU, UPM will develop a real-world unmanned aerial systems sandbox supported by 5G connectivity and AI capabilities. The facility will feature four dedicated zones for urban air mobility, agriculture, autonomous robotics and healthcare to support research, testing and eventual commercial deployment.
DNB Chief Executive Officer Datuk Azman Ismail said the partnership reflects a shared vision to build a resilient digital ecosystem that empowers local talent and drives inclusive innovation.
“By combining the national 5G network with UPM’s academic strengths, we are laying the foundation for scalable unmanned aerial systems operations that can transform multiple industries,” he said.
UPM Vice-Chancellor Dato’ Professor Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah added that the collaboration positions UPM as the first university equipped with direct 5G infrastructure from DNB.
“This facility is expected to accelerate research implementation, commercialisation of innovation outcomes and the development of new technologies in areas such as AI, IoT and automation systems, particularly within agriculture and biotechnology. Ultimately, this supports the adoption of efficient technologies and sustainable innovations that strengthen national food security,” he said.
Ericsson is powering the mission-critical unmanned aerial system using advanced 5G technology. The drone will have a secure and dedicated connection, ensuring uninterrupted real-time telemetry through smart network resource allocation.
The initiative includes close engagement with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) to ensure all BVLOS operations comply with national airspace regulations. Future collaborations are expected in logistics, precision agriculture, public safety and digital healthcare, contributing to Malaysia’s ambition of becoming a future-ready, digitally sovereign nation.
