KOTA SAMARAHAN: It was mentioned that the drone industry in Malaysia had the potential to generate RM50.71bil to the gross domestic product (GDP) and capable of creating 100,000 jobs by 2030.
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak rector Professor Datuk Dr Jamil Hamali also pointed out that through the use of drones, Sarawak had been successful in combating illegal logging activities.
“We now have drone rangers to monitor our forests from the sky and see things clearly from the ground.”
He added that drones had helped the state to manage its resources efficiently, especially sustainable timber management.
“2.5 million hectares were declared for the Heart of Borneo (HoB) initiative, and drones will help the state to monitor the area more effectively.
‘We can also assist the global community in addressing climate change and environmental protection with better data gathering through drones and more efficient enforcement to tackle illegal activities.”
He said this in his speech ahead of the 3rd International Conference on Computer and Drone Application (IConDA) at Jubli Hall, UiTM Kota Samarahan on yesterday (Nov 28).
Prof Jamil also stated that within the last year, Sarawak Forest Department inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) for collaboration on restoration activities.
“This includes plantation, conservation and protection of trees in the area under BDA’s supervision for the Bintulu town’s beautification.
“Several high-valued species of local trees have been identified for planting in our state drone seedlings project.”
Prof Jamil said IConDA provided an excellent opportunity for computer and drone application professionals and industry players to exchange ideas and experiences.
“Stakeholders and business owners are expected to use this conference to understand state-of-the-art computer and drone technologies and their application.”
With its theme “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development”, the conference aims to provide a platform for local and international participants from academics and industries to present their authoritative knowledge and the most up-to-date research findings in computer and drone applications technologies.
