Malaysia must accelerate the development and adoption of new technologies, particularly in the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone sector, to strengthen its global economic competitiveness, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of MyDrone Expo 2026, Anwar said the drone industry, closely linked to artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation, has become a key driver of innovation, productivity and economic growth, and urged Malaysia to build a strong supporting ecosystem to capitalise on its potential.
He said the government is fully backing the sector beyond defence applications, including civilian use cases such as agriculture and plantations, while directing ministries and agencies to strengthen regulatory frameworks, funding, testing and certification processes.
He also called for closer collaboration between industry players, research institutions and universities to develop a strong talent pipeline.
