PEOPLE in Sarawak must apply for a licence from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) to own a drone.
State Transport Minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin said drone owners must also have a permit from the police and the local CAAM office fly the remote-controlled robots.
Lee said many people are not aware of these legal requirements.
"Drones are classified as a form of unmanned aircraft,” he said in a statement.
"Under the law, there are strict regulations to follow when operating any aircraft, manned or unmanned.
"There have been cases in Sarawak of police seizing drones from people who fly them during festivals or events in public places.
"There must be greater awareness to educate the public on the need for licence and permits for drones,” he said, adding that he would be meeting with federal and regulatory agencies to discuss the problem.
Drones come in various sizes and engine capacities.
Some can fly up to 8km in the air and are equipped with cameras that can snap pictures and capture video footages, including inside people's houses and compounds.
Many people fly drones as a hobby.
Law enforcement agencies use drones for surveillance and investigation purposes.
Lee did not say if the Sarawak authorities will crack down against drone owners flying the gadgets without a licence and permit. – The Vibes, December 6, 2023
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