In a move blending modern tech with old-school traffic enforcement, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) have started using drones to spot and stop motorcyclists who refuse to use designated motorcycle lanes — especially along the notoriously busy Federal Highway. 

This isn't about playing Big Brother. It's about tackling a real problem: rising motorcycle accidents, many of which are caused by riders weaving dangerously through car traffic instead of sticking to their safer, designated lanes.

Eye in the Sky: Drones as Enforcement Tools

The operation recently took place around KM28.4 of the Federal Highway, with Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Shahrulnizam Ja'afar overseeing the effort.

Thanks to aerial surveillance from police drones, officers were able to catch violators in real-time. Riders caught red-handed were issued summonses on the spot, while those who sped off were not so lucky — their license plates were recorded for later enforcement.

The drone support came from the Police Air Unit (PGU) and made it easier for officers on the ground to coordinate responses quickly and efficiently.

Why Are Riders Avoiding the Motorcycle Lanes?

Let's be fair — some riders avoid these lanes for legitimate reasons. Many motorcyclists complain about poor lighting, flooded paths during rain, or pothole-ridden routes. But from PDRM's point of view, safety comes first.

According to Shahrulnizam, skipping the designated motorcycle lane and swerving through main traffic lanes puts everyone at risk, not just the rider. He pointed out that these violations are especially common during peak morning hours, which is why enforcement was timed accordingly.

The Numbers Don't Lie

In just one morning, the operation led to 47 summonses being issued for various traffic offences. Out of these:

Shahrulnizam highlighted a sobering fact: in just the first five months of this year, 204 fatal motorcycle accidents were reported in the district. That's 70% of all traffic deaths, making enforcement not just a necessity, but a life-saving mission.

Not Just Punishment – Education Is Key

While catching violators is important, the police say their goal isn't just to punish — it's also about educating riders.

Shahrulnizam stressed that continued enforcement will go hand in hand with awareness campaigns, aiming to remind motorcyclists of the critical role traffic rules play in keeping everyone safe.

The drone-supported initiative will be repeated in future operations, marking a growing shift towards tech-assisted enforcement strategies across Malaysia's roadways.

The Bigger Picture

This operation reflects a broader trend in law enforcement: using technology to address recurring safety challenges. With rising traffic congestion and motorcycle-related deaths, PDRM's drone initiative might just be a glimpse of how Malaysian roads will be policed moving forward — smarter, faster, and from above.