Malaysia Stands Firm on Flying Car Project Despite UN Criticism – Mohd Redzuan

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia will press ahead with its first flying car project despite criticism from various quarters, including United Nations Special Rapporteur Professor Philip Alston, Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Redzuan Md Yusof said on Tuesday.

Speaking at a press conference after visiting Datasonic Group Bhd, a security-based ICT solutions provider, Redzuan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project and welcomed differing opinions.

“We are open to any views to further develop this project… the UN may have its own perspective,” Redzuan said.

He was responding to recent remarks by Alston, who questioned the feasibility of a flying car in Malaysia due to the country’s frequent storms and reliance on fossil fuels. Alston argued that such a project would be a waste of time and resources, especially when Malaysia should be focusing on climate change mitigation.

Redzuan, however, maintained that the flying car initiative is privately funded and part of a global trend that Malaysia cannot afford to ignore.

“This is a private-sector initiative. If you look at the entire industry ecosystem, it’s worth about USD 500 billion globally. This is a major sector we must be part of and support,” he said.
He added that the prototype for Malaysia’s flying car is currently being developed by a Malaysian company in Japan, and is now 85 percent complete.

The flying car project, announced in 2019, has been met with both excitement and skepticism. Supporters view it as a leap toward futuristic mobility and innovation, while critics question its practicality, safety, and environmental impact.

Despite the divided opinions, Redzuan emphasized that such bold initiatives are crucial for positioning Malaysia as a competitive player in emerging industries.

–Source