CAAM Appoints Futurise as Secretariat for Advanced Air Mobility Steering Committee in Malaysia

17 December 2024

PUTRAJAYA: The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has appointed Futurise Sdn Bhd as the Secretariat for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Steering Committee.

This selection leverages Futurise's extensive expertise in regulatory sandboxes across various innovative technologies, including drone systems, to assist CAAM in shaping the regulatory framework for the burgeoning AAM industry.

This appointment arrives at a transformative juncture, as CAAM acknowledges the significant potential that AAM offers for Malaysia.

The initiative positions the country at the forefront of next-generation transportation solutions within the emerging low-altitude economy.

As urbanization and congestion challenge traditional infrastructure, AAM presents innovative alternatives for faster, more efficient, and sustainable travel, particularly in urban centres and remote areas.

With its strategic location, growing technological capabilities, and government support through initiatives such as the National Transport Policy, Malaysia is well-equipped to revolutionize its transportation landscape.

By embracing advanced solutions like electric Vertical Take-off and Landing aircraft (eVTOLs) and drone-based logistics, the nation stands to unlock substantial economic opportunities, stimulate growth in mobility and air-based services, and enhance connectivity and accessibility.

Through these advancements, Malaysia is poised to lead in developing a vibrant and sustainable low-altitude economy.

A forthcoming AAM industry report, developed in collaboration with the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), projects that the introduction of AAM could generate RM70 billion in additional revenues—equating to a 1.9% boost to the nation’s total revenues.

The report anticipates a further 2.3% contribution to GDP, amounting to RM34 billion, from 2021 to 2040.

Moreover, the expansion of AAM services is expected to significantly increase income levels for those involved in infrastructure development and operations, adding 2.3% to total salaries or RM14 billion to the nation's overall income.

"The future of transportation lies in the skies, and Malaysia is uniquely positioned to harness the potential of AAM. By fostering innovation and creating a conducive regulatory environment, we are paving the way for a thriving low-altitude economy that will transform industries and enhance quality of life for Malaysians," said Rosihan Zain Baharudin, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Futurise.

CAAM's CEO, Dato' Captain Norazman Mahmud, emphasised the importance of a supportive regulatory framework for the successful adoption of AAM technologies.

"By establishing a clear and effective regulatory sandbox, we are enabling the testing, refinement, and safe scaling of AAM solutions. This approach will ensure that Malaysia leads in shaping the low-altitude economy while prioritizing safety and innovation," he stated.

Moreover, he expressed hopes that the collaboration with Futurise would enhance the efficiency of Malaysia's civil aviation industry sustainably, while also ensuring compliance with international safety and regulatory standards.

As part of the AAM Steering Committee, Futurise will coordinate meetings and discussions, conduct preliminary evaluations of proposals from industry stakeholders, and carry out benchmarking studies.

They will also oversee regulatory sandbox management, which includes drafting operational concept documents (ConOps) in alignment with CAAM's policy decisions.

In addition, Futurise will provide expert insights on developing the AAM roadmap, ensuring a strategic and cohesive path for Malaysia's integration into the low-altitude economy.