A step forward: A police officer from the Air Operation Drone Unit of the Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department using drones during a search and rescue operation in Kluang, Johor in December last year. — Photo courtesy of Pasukan Gerakan Udara PDRM Facebook
JOHOR BARU: The government’s move to boost drone technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to strengthen border security is a transformative step to improve security and monitoring efficiently, says the Malaysian UAV Alliance Association.
Its member Su’aidi Yusoff said the advanced capabilities of drones equipped with thermal imaging and motion detection enable authorities to monitor extensively in remote areas that are otherwise difficult to reach.
“The speed at which drones can be deployed surpasseses that of human patrols, allowing quick response to any incidents.
“Drones offer extensive coverage and can quickly survey broad regions,” he said when contacted.
Su’aidi was commenting on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement during the tabling of Budget 2025 on Oct 18 on the allocation of RM1bil to strengthen the country’s borders through various projects.
It included equipping enforcement agencies with drone technology to enhance monitoring capabilities.
Su’aidi urged the government to ensure transparency throughout the procurement process of these drones.
“The usage of drones also offers continuous, real-time surveillance with high-resolution cameras and infrared sensors that relay live feeds to command centres for immediate analysis.
“The technology’s cost efficiency is also a major advantage.
“Their use reduces the need for personnel to operate in dangerous or difficult terrains, enhancing safety for border agents,” he explained.
Equipped with tools like thermal imaging and radar, drones are versatile and able to adapt to missions ranging from detecting illegal crossings to monitoring environmental changes, he added.
“Their low environmental impact, with reduced fuel usage and emissions, adds to their appeal as a sustainable alternative. And their presence can act as a deterrent, increasing the likelihood of detecting illegal activities.”
