I am not sure if this is the right section, but I could find any better place to publish my question.

I have lived in Malaysia for a few years and have visited the country many, many times in the past.

I recently saw a very nice movie about the DJI drone together with a GoPro Hero 3 camera. I am into travel photography but this is whole new dimension.

Have that DJI Phantom with the GoPro means I can take pics of complete new angles.

I almost bought the whole setup, when someone reminded/warned me of local government policies against usage of drones, even commercial ones.

Does anyone know what the stance is towards bringing along a drone in travel luggage? Do I take a big risk trying to travel to Malaysia with a commercial drone? I've read people being denied at some countries, but cannot find what Malaysia thinks of it?

Any input would be very welcome....

I don't think there's any legislation or problem traveling with it around malaysia. If needed, can always say it's a quadcopter toy.

Thanks for your reply. Is there any way to find out for sure, without 'waking up' sleeping dogs ?

I wouldn't want to find out they have a policy against bringing them along once I arrive at KLIA...would be such a shitty situation, especially after a 13 hrs flight...

Malaysia is still relatively new to drones and as such the rules for it have not been created yet.
In the airport, I'm very sure the DJI phantom can pass through the custom without any problems.
It can be passed of as a toy.

If it were to be a large Octa/Hexacopter with a large motorized gimbal, then that may be a different story.
But even so, I'm sure it won't be a problem.

The only small issue is that some RC copters may use prohibited radio frequency.
I don't think the Dji phantom crosses that at all.

http://www.customs.gov.my/index.php/en/com...ent/article/243


As for using in public places, a bit of common sense goes a long way.

This post has been edited by LegendLee: Apr 16 2014, 09:48 PM

Ha...great answer. I may take the risk then .

I also contacted DJI myself, they simply forwarded me to the local country policy makers...which is a shame, as it found suit them nice if they could look into this matter a bit more thorough as the whole drone issue is currently a hot issue in many countries (even countries with open governments).

Anyway. I recently saw DJI releasing a new version of their Phantom, which now has a built in detector for avoiding airspaces and such....this could set some governments minds at ease I guess..?

Technically acquisition of aerial imaging requires a permit. The permit is issued based on where you want to fly and for a specified time limit. However, that's for acquisition of aerial photos for the purpose of mapping. Not sure how it works with low altitude drones. Obviously, best to stay under the radar and don't go flying near restricted areas such as airports and army bases. Even gated community people may be pissed off if you fly over their houses. It's probably more of a privacy issue then.

This post has been edited by jovial: Apr 28 2014, 10:55 AM

Sounds plausible.

I am only planning to use it to make unique angle images of tourist attractions in Malaysia. For example; fly above the Panorama Langkawi Cable Car to get some nice images of the whole area, or above Perhentian to get a shot of the whole island....things like that.

Not planning to use it at questionable places....though I wonder how local officials will treat me if I go fly above Central Market in KL...

It's dangerous to fly above someone's head.
So make sure to choose a spot with very few people below.
One mistake is all it takes to not only get you to trouble but also paint a bad picture to all drone enthusiast in Malaysia.

Now... the DJI phantom isn't quiet so it will attract attention.
So if you've to do it, make sure to do it very quickly. Plan and get your shot within 1 try if possible.