Sarawak eyes opportunities in emerging low-altitude economy

MIRI (March 16): Sarawak is positioning itself to tap into the emerging low-altitude economy, with plans to explore opportunities in drone logistics, smart city applications and technology-driven industries.

State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said its ministry is actively laying the ground work to develop the sector, which has been globally recognised as a major future economic frontier.

“With rapid technological development, the low-altitude economy is gradually moving from concept to industrial application and is widely regarded as a new engine of economic growth,” Lee said.

His speech was delivered by his representative Jeffrey Phang during the Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) annual general meeting here yesterday.

Lee explained that the sector covers a wide range of applications, including drone-based logistics, environmental monitoring, agricultural technology and smart urban management.

To further explore the industry’s potential, he said an aviation safety seminar titled ‘Advancing the Low Altitude Economy: Safe, Smart and Sustainable Growth’ will be held in Miri later this month.

The seminar will be organised in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and Curtin University Malaysia, bringing together experts and stakeholders to discuss regulatory frameworks, safety standards and industry development.

“The initiative is part of the state government’s broader efforts to position Sarawak at the forefront of new economic sectors driven by technology and innovation,” he said.

Lee also encouraged businesses in Miri to explore opportunities within the low-altitude economy, noting that early participation would place local enterprises in a strong position as the industry expands.

Apart from the initiative, the Senadin assemblyman also highlighted improvements in regional connectivity through Sarawak’s own airline Air Borneo, as well as the planned expansion of Miri Airport to support future economic and tourism growth.

He said these developments will strengthen Miri’s role as a key economic centre in northern Sarawak, while supporting the state’s development agenda under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030.

Among those present were deputy minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia and Miri MP Chiew Choon Man; Pujut assemblyman Mayor Adam Yii; Councillor Kelvin Chia who represented Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I Datuk Sebastian Ting; and MCCCI chairman Ling Chiong Sing.