Drone technology promises rapid, flexible, safe, and environmentally-friendly deliveries within the supply chain
This article was originally published on Logistics Middle East.
DHL Express has inked a joint agreement with UAV supplier Aerodyne Group in Malaysia to assess the commercial viability of drone technology and develop business models for its use in life sciences and maritime supply chains.
Through the partnership, both companies have identified market opportunities for improving the transport of healthcare related supplies in East Malaysia and time-critical essentials to vessels plying the Malaccan Straits.
“The fourth industrial revolution, accented by digital transformation across many industries coupled with the pace of change in the logistics industry, requires constant innovative approaches to meet evolving demand and ensure future-ready supply chains,” said Julian Neo, Managing Director of DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei.
“This is where drones and robotics can play a role. Drone technology has a vital role to play in the future of logistics, especially for businesses in Malaysia.”
DHL was a part of the launch of the Iskandar Drone and Robotics Zone held earlier in December.
Aerodyne Group’s CEO, Kamarul A Muhamed said: “In tandem with the global rise of drone delivery, our partnership with DHL Express is timely to make this service compliant, as well as technically and commercially viable in Malaysia and beyond.
“Our proven record in large-scale operations using AI-powered solutions and innovative data analytics enables us to rapidly scale and digitally transform enterprises in all sectors. This collaboration will also heighten our advocacy efforts worldwide for supportive regulations on drone services and spur more breakthroughs in our advanced drone and data tech.”
The impact of the global pandemic has compounded persisting last-mile delivery challenges and made it more urgent than ever to respond to changes in the logistics landscape. The deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles may realise automatic, contactless shipping services in remote areas and from shore to vessel to shore.
For example, the lack of roads connecting rural and urban societies in Sabah means that villagers often face difficulties in accessing vaccines and medication. Drones can overcome this infrastructure gap to send consignments regardless of the terrain. Beyond speed, savings, and safety, drones also leave a much lower carbon footprint compared to more traditional transportation methods like trucks or boats.
Image via Logistics Middle East
