By Nasuha Badrul Huzaini
SUBANG, Sept 9 — Selangor is now the first state in Malaysia to establish a Centre of Excellence for Drones (SDEC) in Bestari Jaya, to further spur the industry’s progress.
Selangor Aviation Technology and Innovation Sdn Bhd (Selati) managing director Mohd Zulkifli Zakaria said the company has been mandated by the state government to develop SDEC which will encompass several components, namely drone testing, training, development, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), as well as drone games.
“SDEC has all the facilities needed for drone testing including land, water and air. Our testing space spans across 40 kilometres and we also provide professional drone training for pilots.
“The pilots will be challenged to fly the drone not only under ordinary circumstances but also during critical times including fires, accidents, stormy weather and disasters,” he said when met at a press conference after the signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sky Futures (M) Sdn Bhd (Sky Futures) during the Selangor Aviation Show (SAS) 2022, earlier today.
The MoU marked the collaboration between both parties for the development of the SDEC where Selati will provide a training centre for Sky Futures.
Mohd Zulkifli added that Selati has conducted testing procedures for a few companies since March this year.
“Next, we will be conducting tests with one of the biggest government-linked companies in Malaysia for three months. Following that, we will be manufacturing a drone prototype for a local petroleum company.
“The company will purchase the drone and we will provide space for testing. It is not easy to find testing space, therefore with all the facilities that we have, we will try and help players in the drone industry to test their prototypes and obtain flying approval.
“As Selangor is an industrial state, we have to ensure we can provide the best facilities for the industry according to its current needs and requirements,” he said.
SAS 2022 takes place at the Skypark Regional Aviation Centre (RAC), Subang from September 8 to September 10.
Among the companies that have confirmed their participation in the event include Dassault Aviation, Systematic Aviation Services Sdn Bhd, and Superb Access Solutions Sdn Bhd.
