The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is planning to publish a new Civil Aviation Regulation on uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) operations in Q4 of 2025.
Currently, UAS operation is regulated by CAAM under the Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 (CAR 2016), specifically, under Regulation 140 – Regulation 144. CAAM has been working closely with key stakeholders within the UAS industry to develop a new comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures both safety and innovation. The new CAR will provide enhanced guidance and governance, aligning with global best practices while fostering a safe, progressive and sustainable UAS ecosystem.
Alongside the development of the new regulatory framework, CAAM is also revising and streamlining the associated fees and charges to reflect the changes in the updated regulations to ensure it meets the growing demands of the industry. In line with the updated regulations, the aviation authority is introducing a new UAS Traffic Management System (UAS-TMS) designed to enhance the registration, application, and monitoring of UAS operations across the country and reduce the processing time for applicants. It is expected to be fully operational by Q4 2025.
For the implementation of the UAS-TM, CAAM is currently working with other regulatory authorities overseeing UAS regulations in Malaysia such as Royal Malaysia Police, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, Standards and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia, Malaysia Office of the Chief Government Security Officer, Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia, Sabah’s Chief Minister Department and the Office of the Premier of Sarawak to streamline the required registration and application processes within this new system. The UAS-TMS is ultimately intended to facilitate the expanding usage of UAS technology, supporting both commercial and recreational operations.
“CAAM acknowledges the urgent need for updated UAS regulations that align with the rapidly evolving industry landscape,” said YBhg. Dato’ Captain Norazman Bin Mahmud, Chief Executive Officer of CAAM. “At the same time, we remain steadfast in our commitment to safety, accountability, and the responsible use of UAS in Malaysia. Strengthening these regulations is crucial to maintaining the highest standards of safety in UAS operations while preventing unlawful activities such as illegal surveillance, airspace violations, and other criminal acts.”
For more information
Civil Aviation Authority – Malaysia
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