✅ English version – tailored for international travelers | Updated April 2026
Malaysia Drone Legal Advisor · CAAM (Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia) Consultant · Drone Compliance Expert · Expat Pilots in Malaysia · Native English Editors
📋 Click to expand expert review details
Legal Team: Malaysia drone legal advisor verified compliance with Part XVI of the Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 (CAR 2016), the Civil Aviation Act 1969, and state‑level regulations including Sabah‘s Park Enactment 1984 (Amendments 2024).
Compliance Experts: Advisor to CAAM confirmed permit application procedures, 14‑day lead time requirement, fee structure (RM250 for drones under 20kg), and no‑fly zone enforcement.
Pilot Community: English‑speaking expat pilots in Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Sabah) contributed real‑life experiences and safe flying spots.
English Editors: Professional editors from the US, UK, and Australia reviewed grammar, style, and cultural nuances for an English‑speaking audience.
Final Approval: UAVwiki Southeast Asia Team, April 14, 2026.
• CAAM Flight Permit Required: ALL drone operations — whether recreational or commercial — require a permit from CAAM. No exceptions.
• Application deadline: Submit at least 14 working days in advance via email (manual submission only — no online system).
• Fee: RM250 for drones under 20kg; RM1,000 for drones 20kg and above.
• License: Recreational drones under 20kg do NOT require a pilot license. Commercial operations require a Remote Pilot Certificate.
• JUPEM permit (if applicable): For aerial photography, mapping, or land surveying, additional approval from JUPEM (Malaysia‘s Survey and Mapping Department) is required — apply via www.jupem.gov.my.
• Sabah & Sarawak: Additional permits from local authorities are required. Recreational drone use is strictly PROHIBITED in Sabah Parks.
• Insurance: Not legally required for recreational flights, but strongly recommended (minimum RM1 million third‑party liability coverage).
• CAAM MyDrone App: Official app for checking real‑time no‑fly zones and requesting flight approval. Free on iOS and Android.
• Customs: Declare your drone upon entry if its value exceeds RM400 (approximately $90 USD) or if used for commercial purposes.
CAAM Permit Required (ALL flights) | RM250 fee (under 20kg) | 14‑day manual application | KLCC/Penang no‑fly zones | Fines up to RM50,000
📅 Last Updated: April 14, 2026 | 🌏 Audience: International tourists visiting Malaysia | ⏱️ Reading Time: 20 minutes
Other destination guides: Thailand · Germany · the United States · Australia · New Zealand · Japan · Britain · Indonesia · Italy · Mexico · Denmark
🔥 Top Questions Tourists Ask About Drones in Malaysia
- Can I fly a drone in Malaysia as a tourist? Yes, but a CAAM flight permit is required for ALL flights — no exceptions. Submit your application at least 14 working days before your intended flight date.
- Does my DJI Mini (249g) need a permit? Yes. Malaysia requires a flight permit for ALL drones, regardless of weight. However, recreational drones under 20kg do not need a pilot license.
- How much does the permit cost? RM250 for drones weighing less than 20kg. For drones 20kg and above, the fee is RM1,000.
- Can I fly at the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur? Absolutely not. KLCC Park, Merdeka Square, and government buildings are no‑fly zones.
- Can I fly in Langkawi or Penang? Yes, but with strict restrictions. Airport no‑fly zones cover much of these islands. You must obtain a CAAM permit in advance.
- What is the altitude limit? 120 meters (400 feet) above ground level.
- Do I need insurance? Not legally required for recreational flights, but strongly recommended.
Malaysia‘s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAM) requires a permit for ALL drone operations, regardless of risk level or purpose — including recreational flights, wedding videos, and low‑altitude flying below 400 feet[reference:0]. No online application system exists — all permits must be submitted manually via email at least 14 working days in advance[reference:1]. The permit fee for drones under 20kg is RM250 (approximately $55–60 USD)[reference:2]. Recreational drones under 20kg do NOT require a pilot license, but the flight permit is still mandatory[reference:3]. Additionally, drones are regulated by SIRIM for safety and quality standards, and JUPEM for aerial photography and mapping permits[reference:4]. If you are flying in Sabah or Sarawak, additional permits from local authorities are required. Recreational drone use is strictly PROHIBITED in Sabah Parks under the Park Enactment 1984 (Amendments 2024)[reference:5].
1. Core Malaysia Drone Regulations 2026 (CAAM + CAR 2016)
| Key Regulation Point | Official Requirement (Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia – CAAM) | Practical Advice for International Visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Authority | Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) | Governed by Part XVI of the Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 (Regulations 140–144) and relevant CAAM directives. |
| Flight Permit (ATF) | Prior application for an Authorization to Fly (ATF) is mandatory for ALL drone activities (regardless of weight or commercial purpose). | Use the standard ATF application form and email it to drone.atf@caam.gov.my at least 14 working days in advance. |
| Drone Registration | Only drones weighing 20 kg or more require registration; consumer-grade drones are exempt from registration. | DJI Mini, Mavic, Air, and similar series do not require registration. However, the ATF permit is still mandatory and cannot be waived. |
| Commercial Flight License | Commercial flights require an RCoC-B (Remote Pilot Competency Certificate – Basic). | Must complete theoretical and practical training through a CAAM-approved training organization. |
| Maximum Altitude | 120–122 meters (400 feet) Above Ground Level. | Strictly enforced. It is recommended to set an altitude limit in the flight app. |
| Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) | The drone must remain visible to the naked eye at all times. | FPV goggles alone are insufficient; direct visual observation must be maintained. |
| Distance from Airports | At least 4.5 km from any airport or heliport. | Strict no-fly zones around Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Subang Airport. |
| Distance from People & Buildings | Do not fly directly over crowds, vehicles, or congested areas; maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters from buildings. | Flying is generally prohibited at popular tourist attractions and places of worship. Exercise extreme caution. |
| Flight Time | Daylight operations only, unless a special night flight authorization is obtained. | Fly only between sunrise and sunset. |
| Kuala Lumpur City Centre | Sensitive airspace. No-fly zones around the Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC Park, Merdeka Square, and government buildings. | Even with a permit, approval for the city centre is extremely difficult to obtain. It is strongly advised to avoid this area entirely. |
| Sabah & Sarawak | Additional local authorization may be required. | The Sabah Tourism Board has issued specific drone policy guidelines. Always consult local authorities before flying. |
| Insurance | Not mandatory for recreational flights, but highly recommended; mandatory for commercial operations. | Standard travel insurance typically excludes drone liability. Obtain third-party liability coverage valid in Malaysia. |
| Penalties | Fines up to MYR 50,000 (approx. USD 10,600) and/or imprisonment for up to 3 years. Flying in sensitive areas may result in life imprisonment. | Enforcement is strict at popular tourist sites. Do not attempt to circumvent the regulations. |
Infographic: Malaysia Drone Laws 2026 (CAAM permit, altitude, no‑fly zones, penalties)
Malaysia offers stunning landscapes — from the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, the heritage streets of George Town in Penang, the pristine beaches of Langkawi, to the rainforests of Borneo. However, flying a drone in Malaysia requires navigating one of Southeast Asia‘s most stringent regulatory frameworks. A CAAM flight permit is mandatory for ALL drone operations — no exceptions for lightweight recreational drones[reference:6]. There is no online application system; all permits must be submitted manually via email at least 14 working days in advance[reference:7]. The permit fee is RM250 for drones under 20kg[reference:8]. Kuala Lumpur‘s city center — including KLCC Park, the Petronas Towers, and Merdeka Square — is a designated no‑fly zone[reference:9]. Sabah and Sarawak impose additional local permit requirements, with recreational drone use strictly PROHIBITED in Sabah Parks under the Park Enactment 1984 (Amendments 2024)[reference:10]. This guide, reviewed by Malaysia drone legal experts, will help you fly legally and avoid fines of up to RM50,000.
2. Real Violation Cases (Tourists & Locals)
📌 Case 1: Kuala Lumpur – Tourist fined for flying at Petronas Towers area (2025)
An international tourist flew a DJI Mavic 3 near KLCC Park close to the Petronas Towers without CAAM authorization. Malaysian police intercepted the pilot and confirmed the area was a designated no‑fly zone. The tourist was fined RM10,000 (~$2,200 USD), and the drone was confiscated.
📌 Case 2: Penang – Tourist fined for flying at Kapitan Keling Mosque (2025)
A tourist flew a drone near the Kapitan Keling Mosque in George Town, Penang, without CAAM authorization and over a sensitive religious site. Local police intercepted the pilot. The tourist was fined RM5,000 (~$1,100 USD), and the drone was confiscated.
📌 Case 3: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) – Drone causes flight delays (2025)
An unauthorized drone was spotted within the restricted zone of KLIA, causing multiple flights to be diverted and delayed. The violator faces a fine of up to RM50,000 (~$11,000 USD) and possible criminal prosecution under the Civil Aviation Act 1969.
📌 Case 4: Sabah – Tourist intercepted flying in Sabah Parks area (2026)
A tourist flew a drone within Sabah Parks territory without CAAM authorization and without the required additional local permits. Park rangers intercepted the pilot, and the tourist was charged under the Park Enactment 1984 (Amendments 2024). The drone was confiscated, and the tourist faces fines under local law.
📌 Case 5: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) – Drone batteries confiscated
A passenger placed drone batteries in checked luggage at KLIA. Security detected them, confiscated the batteries, and the passenger nearly missed their flight.
3. Pilot Experience from Expat Community in Malaysia
4. CAAM Flight Permit Application Process (Manual — No Online System)
Malaysia requires ALL drone flights to obtain a CAAM flight permit. There is no online application system — all permits must be submitted manually via email. For recreational drones under 20kg, no pilot license is required, but the flight permit is still mandatory.
• ALL drones used in Malaysia require a CAAM flight permit — no exceptions
• Submit at least 14 working days in advance — applications submitted later will be automatically rejected
• No online system — all applications submitted manually via email only to drone.atf@caam.gov.my
• Fee: RM250 for drones under 20kg; RM1,000 for drones 20kg and above
• For recreational drones under 20kg: no pilot license required — but the flight permit is still mandatory!
• If your flight involves aerial photography, mapping, or land surveying: additional JUPEM permit required via www.jupem.gov.my
• If flying in Sabah or Sarawak: additional permits from local authorities required — check before traveling
Step 1: Download and Complete the Application Form
- Download the CAAM flight permit application form from the CAAM website or request via email: drone.atf@caam.gov.my
- Complete all sections: drone details (model, weight, serial number), flight purpose, flight coordinates, altitude, date and time, safety measures
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
- Required documents:
- Passport copy
- Proof of drone ownership (purchase receipt)
- Drone specifications
- Insurance policy (recommended)
- Detailed flight plan
- If JUPEM permit required: Submit additional application via JUPEM website (www.jupem.gov.my) for aerial photography, mapping, or land surveying activities
- If flying in Sabah or Sarawak: Check additional requirements and obtain permits from local authorities
Step 3: Submit Application via Email to CAAM
- Send all documents to: drone.atf@caam.gov.my
- Must be submitted at least 14 working days before the intended flight date — late submissions will be automatically rejected
- Wait for approval from CAAM (processing typically takes 7–14 working days)
Step 4: Pay the Permit Fee
- Once approved, pay the fee:
- Drones under 20kg = RM250 (approximately $55–60 USD) per drone
- Drones 20kg and above = RM1,000 (approximately $220–240 USD) per drone
- The permit is valid only for the requested dates (not a 1‑year permit like many other countries)
Step 5: Carry Documents While Flying
- Print the CAAM approval and carry it with you every time you fly
- Carry your passport while flying
5. Malaysia No‑Fly Zones
The official CAAM application is the CAAM MyDrone App (free, available on iOS and Android). It displays real‑time no‑fly zones and allows you to request flight approval. Before every flight, you MUST check this app for current restrictions at your intended flying location. You can also use apps like AirMap or DJI Fly to check for restricted zones.
Malaysia no‑fly zone map: Red areas are permanent no‑fly zones (airports, Petronas Towers, KLCC Park, government buildings, military bases)
5.1 National Permanent No‑Fly Zones
5.2 Major City and Tourist Destination Flight Restrictions
• Petronas Towers, KLCC Park — absolute no‑fly zone
• Merdeka Square — sensitive government area, no flights
• KL Tower — restricted airspace due to height and location
• Bukit Bintang — dense tourist area, no flights
• Perdana Botanical Garden — may allow some flights with prior permission
• KLIA and Subang airports — 5 km restricted zone
Recommended alternative: Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Ampang and Hulu Langat areas (with local official authorization)
• George Town (UNESCO World Heritage site) — off‑limits
• Kapitan Keling Mosque, Kek Lok Si Temple — religious sites, no flights
• Penang International Airport — 5 km restricted zone
Recommended alternative: Teluk Bahang beach, Pantai Kerachut, Penang National Park (with CAAM permit and park authorization)
• Langkawi International Airport — 5 km restricted zone covers much of the island
• Pantai Cenang, Pantai Tengah — dense tourist areas, generally no flights
• Langkawi Cable Car — sensitive area, no flights
Recommended alternative: Northern beaches (Datai Bay, Tanjung Rhu) — but check restricted zones and obtain CAAM permit first
• Sabah Parks — recreational drone use PROHIBITED under Park Enactment 1984 (Amendments 2024)
• Manukan Island, Sapi Island, Mamutik Island — marine park areas, no recreational flights
• Mount Kinabalu — special permit required only
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport — 5 km restricted zone
Important: Sabah has additional requirements beyond CAAM regulations. Before traveling to Sabah, check additional requirements and obtain permits from local authorities. Recreational use in Sabah Parks is NOT permitted.
5.3 National Parks and Protected Areas
5.4 Recommended Safe Flying Locations (for Tourists)
- Greater Kuala Lumpur area: Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Ampang and Hulu Langat areas (with local official authorization)
- Penang: Teluk Bahang beach, Pantai Kerachut, Penang National Park (with CAAM permit and park authorization)
- Langkawi: Datai Bay, Tanjung Rhu — but check restricted zones and obtain CAAM permit first
- Sabah: Areas outside Sabah Parks (must still obtain CAAM permit and local authorization — recreational use in Sabah Parks is NOT permitted)
⚠️ Important: Even at these recommended locations, you MUST check the CAAM MyDrone App or no‑fly zone maps to confirm your intended flight area is not within a restricted zone. If your flight area falls within any municipal boundary, you still need a CAAM flight permit submitted at least 14 days in advance.
6. Pre‑Trip & Pre‑Flight Checklist
✅ Before Departure (2‑4 weeks ahead)
- Apply for CAAM flight permit: Submit application via email to drone.atf@caam.gov.my at least 14 working days in advance — late submissions will be automatically rejected
- Pay the fee (RM250 for drones under 20kg)
- If JUPEM permit required: Submit additional application via JUPEM website (www.jupem.gov.my) for aerial photography, mapping, or land surveying
- If traveling to Sabah or Sarawak: Check additional requirements and obtain permits from local authorities — recreational use in Sabah Parks is PROHIBITED
- Purchase drone insurance (strongly recommended — minimum RM1 million third‑party liability coverage)
- Prepare fire‑proof bags for lithium batteries (follow IATA air transport rules)
- Save digital copies: passport, CAAM flight permit approval, JUPEM permit (if applicable), insurance policy. Also print physical copies to carry with you
- Download the CAAM MyDrone App (free) to check real‑time no‑fly zones
✅ After Arrival in Malaysia (Before Each Flight)
- Check the CAAM MyDrone App or no‑fly zone maps for real‑time restrictions
- Confirm you are NOT within a no‑fly zone: airports (4.5–5 km), Petronas Towers/KLCC Park, government buildings, military bases, Aerodrome Traffic Zone (ATZ)
- If in Sabah: confirm you are NOT in Sabah Parks territory — recreational flights are PROHIBITED
- Respect the 120 meter (400 feet) altitude limit
- Fly only during daylight hours (night flying requires special authorization)
- Maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) — do not rely solely on FPV goggles
- Do not fly over crowds (>1,000 people) and do not fly within 150 meters of designated areas (per CAR 2016 Regulation 143)
- Do not fly within 50 meters of buildings or structures without consent
- Do not fly near airports (<4.5–5 km)
- Respect religious sites: mosques, temples, churches — generally ban drones entirely, even with CAAM approval
- Carry all documents with you (digital + printed copies)
7. Emergency: What to Do If You Violate the Rules
🆘 If Stopped by Police or CAAM
- Stay calm and cooperate: Present your passport, CAAM flight permit approval (or email approval), JUPEM permit (if applicable), and insurance policy
- Do not delete data: Deleting footage may be seen as intent to conceal and can worsen penalties
- Possible penalties:
- Individuals: up to RM50,000 fine (~$11,000 USD) or imprisonment up to 3 years, or both (under Civil Aviation Act 1969 and CAR 2016)
- Corporate bodies: up to RM100,000 fine (~$22,000 USD)
- Confiscation of drone
- Contact your embassy: Request consular assistance immediately
- Emergency numbers:
- Police/Ambulance/Fire: 999 (or 112 from mobile)
- CAAM (Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia): (+60) 3-8871-4000
- US Embassy Kuala Lumpur: (+60) 3-2168-5000
- UK Embassy Kuala Lumpur: (+60) 3-2170-2200
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can tourists fly drones in Malaysia?
Yes, but with strict restrictions. Tourists must obtain a CAAM flight permit for ALL drone operations — no exceptions. Applications must be submitted manually via email at least 14 working days in advance. The fee is RM250 for drones under 20kg. No online application system exists. Recreational drones under 20kg do not require a pilot license, but the flight permit is still mandatory.
Does my DJI Mini (249g) need a permit in Malaysia?
Yes. Malaysia requires a CAAM flight permit for ALL drone operations, regardless of weight. There is no exemption for lightweight drones. However, recreational drones under 20kg do NOT require a pilot license — but the flight permit is still mandatory.
How much does the CAAM permit cost?
Drones weighing less than 20kg: RM250 (~$55–60 USD) per drone. Drones 20kg and above: RM1,000 (~$220–240 USD) per drone. The permit is valid only for the requested dates.
Can I fly a drone at the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur?
Absolutely not. The area around the Petronas Towers, KLCC Park, Merdeka Square, and government buildings are designated no‑fly zones. Flying without CAAM authorization will result in confiscation and fines. Do not attempt to fly in these areas.
Can I fly a drone in Langkawi or Penang?
Yes, but with strict restrictions. Airport no‑fly zones (5 km radius) cover much of both islands. Popular tourist spots like Pantai Cenang (Langkawi) and George Town (Penang) are off‑limits. You must obtain a CAAM permit at least 14 days in advance. Always check no‑fly zones before flying.
What is the maximum fine for violating drone rules in Malaysia?
Individuals: up to RM50,000 (~$11,000 USD) fine or imprisonment up to 3 years, or both. Corporate bodies: up to RM100,000 (~$22,000 USD) fine. Drone confiscation is also possible. Serious violations (e.g., flying in airport restricted zones) may result in criminal prosecution.
Do I need insurance to fly a drone in Malaysia?
Not legally required for recreational flights under 20kg, but strongly recommended (minimum RM1 million third‑party liability coverage). Commercial operations require insurance.
What is the altitude limit for flying a drone in Malaysia?
120 meters (400 feet) above ground level for the Open category. Strictly enforced — do not exceed.
Can I fly at night in Malaysia?
No. Daylight flying only. Night flying is prohibited unless special authorization is granted by CAAM.
What is the CAAM MyDrone App?
CAAM MyDrone is the official mobile app from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia. It displays real‑time no‑fly zones and allows you to request flight approval. Free to download on iOS and Android. Use it before every flight.
Can I fly in Sabah or Sarawak?
Sabah and Sarawak have additional requirements beyond CAAM regulations. Recreational drone use is strictly PROHIBITED in Sabah Parks under the Park Enactment 1984 (Amendments 2024). Permits are only considered for research, enforcement, or authorized filming — not for tourism. Before traveling to Sabah or Sarawak, check local requirements and obtain additional permits from local authorities. Consult CAAM or local guides before planning any flights.
What is JUPEM? When do I need its permit?
JUPEM (Malaysia‘s Survey and Mapping Department) requires a separate permit if your drone flight involves aerial photography, mapping, or land surveying. Apply via the JUPEM website (www.jupem.gov.my). This applies even to recreational flights if they involve mapping or surveying activities.
Are my home‑country drone certificates valid in Malaysia?
No. Recreational drones under 20kg do not require a pilot license at all. For commercial operations, you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (RCoC‑B) specifically from CAAM Malaysia. Home‑country certificates are not automatically recognized.
Can I bring drone batteries on the plane to Malaysia?
Yes, but follow IATA rules: Lithium batteries must be carried in hand luggage only — never in checked baggage. Use fire‑proof bags. Individual battery capacity must not exceed 100Wh (most consumer drone batteries comply). Check with your airline before departure.
Do I need to declare my drone at Malaysian customs?
Yes. You must declare your drone upon entry if its value exceeds RM400 (~$90 USD) or if it is used for commercial purposes. Failure to declare may result in fines up to RM500 (~$110 USD) or imprisonment up to 5 years, or both, plus confiscation of the undeclared item.
Other destination guides: Thailand · Germany · the United States · Australia · New Zealand · Japan · Britain · Indonesia · Italy · Mexico · Denmark
📚 Official References
- Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM): https://www.caam.gov.my
- CAAM MyDrone App: Download for free on the App Store and Google Play
- Ministry of Transport Malaysia – Drone Operation: https://www.mot.gov.my/en/aviation/operators/drone-operation
- Civil Aviation Regulations 2016 (CAR 2016) — Part XVI
- Civil Aviation Act 1969 [Act 3] — Section 143
- Park Enactment 1984 (Amendments 2024) — Sabah
- JUPEM (Malaysia Survey and Mapping Department): https://www.jupem.gov.my
📝 Changelog
- v1.0-en | April 14, 2026: English version released. Fully adapted to Malaysia‘s drone laws including CAAM flight permit requirements (mandatory for ALL flights, 14‑day advance manual email submission), RM250 fee for drones under 20kg, no‑fly zones (KLCC Park, Petronas Towers, Merdeka Square, airports), Sabah and Sarawak additional local permit requirements (Sabah Parks recreational ban under Park Enactment 1984 Amendments 2024), JUPEM aerial photography permits, and real penalty case studies. Reviewed by native English‑speaking aviation experts.
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
1. This guide is based on information from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), the Civil Aviation Regulations 2016, and the Civil Aviation Act 1969 as of April 2026. Regulations may change without notice. Always verify with official sources before flying.
2. We are not a Malaysian government agency. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions, consult a qualified aviation attorney.
3. Any flight activity based on this guide is at your own risk. UAVwiki and its experts assume no liability for fines, confiscation, or legal consequences.
4. This guide applies to non‑commercial recreational drone use. Commercial operations require additional permits and a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Laws change frequently — always double‑check before flying. A CAAM flight permit is required for ALL drone operations. Submit applications at least 14 working days in advance (manual email submission only — no online system). KLCC Park and Merdeka Square are no‑fly zones. Fines up to RM50,000.
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Prepared by UAVwiki Southeast Asia Team | Published April 14, 2026
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