Lee: Many still unaware drone operations regulated by law

KUCHING (Aug 13): The Ministry of Transport has observed a disturbing trend in Sarawak where many individuals continue to operate drones in public spaces without proper authorisation.

Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said these activities, often carried out with good intentions or for personal amusement, have led to numerous incidents where drone operators have found themselves in violation of the law.

“The consequences have been serious, with many being caught by enforcement teams for operating without the necessary permits issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM).

“I have received quite a number of appeals from those whose drones were confiscated where they have relayed to me that they were not aware of the law and wanted to appeal to the CAAM,” he said in his keynote address at the Sarawak Aviation Safety Talk for Southern Region here today.

He pointed out that this situation highlighted a critical gap in public knowledge where many were simply unaware that drone operations, especially in public places or near sensitive areas, are regulated by law.

“Drone operation in Malaysia, either commercially or recreational, is subjected to the aviation legislation, namely Part XVI of Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 and the Aeronautical Information Circular 4/2008.

“All drone operators need to adhere to the restrictions, operational limits and rules under the regulations.

“These regulations are not just bureaucratic red tape; they are essential safeguards designed to protect public safety, national security, and the privacy of entities and individuals,” he said.

Lee stressed that the regulations set forth by CAAM require that anyone intending to operate a drone in public spaces or within controlled airspace must first obtain the appropriate permits.

“These permits ensure that drone operations are conducted safely, responsibly, and in a manner that does not interfere with other airspace users, including commercial and military aircraft,” he said.

He said his ministry is committed to launching a comprehensive public awareness campaign, which will involve collaboration with local authorities, community leaders, and media outlets to disseminate information on drone regulations.

“As the Minister of Transport for Sarawak, I cannot stress enough the importance of educating our public about these regulations.

“It is our collective duty to ensure that every drone operator in Sarawak is fully aware of the legal requirements and the potential risks associated with improper drone use.

“This is not just about avoiding fines or penalties; it is about protecting lives, safeguarding our heritage, and maintaining the integrity of our airspace,” he said.

He said the ministry will be organising workshops, seminars and outreach programmes to educate the public throughout Sarawak be it in the southern, central or norther region, where access to information may be limited.

“I urge all associations, companies and individuals in Sarawak to take this issue seriously. The use of drones is not just a matter of personal freedom, it is a matter of public safety and national security.

“Let us work together to ensure that every drone flight in Sarawak is conducted legally, safely, and with the utmost respect for our environment and our fellow citizens,” said Lee.

Also present were Lee’s deputy Datuk Dr Jerip Susil and CAAM chief executive officer Dato Capt Norazman Mahmud.