If you want to fly drones commercially in Malaysia, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) framework is the starting point — not a brand certificate alone. This guide explains how the Remote Certificate of Competency (RCoC) works, the difference between RCoC-B and RCoC-AL, typical cost and validity ranges, and how training at Asia Drone Technical Academy (SG TVET Group) maps to the process.
Always verify the latest regulatory text on caam.gov.my. Requirements can be updated under the Air Navigation Regulations.
What is an RCoC?
An RCoC is Malaysia’s competency pathway for remote pilots operating unmanned aircraft under CAAM rules (commonly discussed under Air Navigation Regulations 140–144). It shows you have been assessed against the knowledge and practical standards needed for the category of operation you intend to fly.
For employers and clients — surveying, inspection, media, agriculture, security — an RCoC is often the minimum proof that a pilot can operate legally and safely.
RCoC-B vs RCoC-AL
| Topic | RCoC-B | RCoC-AL |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | Entry / basic remote pilot competency for common commercial categories within stated limits | Advanced / higher-risk or higher-weight category operations that need additional competency |
| Who it suits | New pilots, operators starting commercial work under basic envelopes | Pilots needing advanced privileges beyond basic RCoC-B scope |
| Training focus | Air law basics, flight principles, safety, practical handling, mission planning | Deeper operational planning, advanced scenarios, category-specific competency |
| Validity (typical market practice) | Often discussed as about 24 months before renewal/revalidation — confirm current CAAM validity rules before you book | |
| Market fee range | Competitor and market guides commonly quote roughly RM2,500–RM6,000 depending on package, aircraft category and inclusions — ask for a written quotation | |
Quick decision rule
Start with RCoC-B if you are entering commercial flying under standard envelopes. Choose or progress to RCoC-AL when your missions, aircraft mass or operational risk require the advanced pathway. Our admissions team can map your intended work to the right track.
How to get a drone pilot license pathway in Malaysia
- Define your mission — inspection, mapping, media, training, or in-house corporate flights.
- Confirm the certificate class — RCoC-B vs RCoC-AL against your aircraft and risk profile.
- Complete structured training — theory + practical flying with documented assessment.
- Pass competency assessment — aligned to CAAM / NOSS expectations for the pathway you enrol in.
- Operate legally — keep currency, renew before expiry, and follow airspace / operational approvals where required.
What a typical 5-day structure looks like
Asia Drone Technical Academy programmes are commonly delivered as intensive blocks (often around five training days depending on intake). A representative structure:
- Days 1–2: regulations, airspace awareness, human factors, risk assessment
- Days 3–4: practical flight exercises, emergency procedures, mission planning
- Day 5: assessment readiness, scenario flights, documentation review
Exact timetables vary by intake. Ask for the current schedule when you register.
Documents and preparation checklist
- MyKad / passport particulars for registration
- Basic English or Malay comprehension for safety briefings
- Comfortable outdoor clothing and closed shoes for flight sessions
- Any prior flight logs if you are upgrading from recreational flying
For companies
Corporate teams often need a cohort trained to one standard for inspection or site surveys. We can schedule company intakes, align syllabus to your site SOPs, and issue clear competency documentation for HSE / procurement files. Contact admission@drone.edu.my or WhatsApp the academy line.
Train with Asia Drone Technical Academy
We are part of SG TVET Group / SG Academy (est. 1999, JPK 5-star). Training is delivered in Kuala Lumpur with English and Malay landers available. Ready to register?