The Road Transport Department (RTD/JPJ) in Malaysia will deploy six drones 24 hours a day during the Op Hari Raya Aidiladha (Op HRAA) traffic operation from May 24 to 31, 2026 to detect traffic offences in accident-prone areas [1, 2].

The continuous drone surveillance marks an increase from the previous Aidilfitri operation in March when drones were used only at certain times. ‘‘Previously, (during Ops Hari Raya Aidilfitri last March), drones were only used at certain times, but this time they will be used throughout Ops HRAA,’’ said Datuk Jazmanie Shafawi [2].

RTD has identified 288 accident hotspots nationwide targeted for enforcement. Key locations include routes from Kuala Lipis to Gua Musang, Gua Musang to Kuala Krai, Gerik to Jeli, Hulu Terengganu to Kuala Terengganu, Segamat to Mersing, and Menora Tunnel to Sungai Perak [1, 2].

The operation focuses on nine major traffic offences linked to accidents: speeding; ignoring traffic signals; overtaking on double lines; misuse of emergency lanes; not wearing seat belts or helmets; queue-cutting; using mobile phones while driving; overloading; and carrying dangerous loads [1, 2]. Datuk Jazmanie said, ‘‘We will maximise the use of drones to detect offences such as overtaking on double lines and using emergency lanes on highways’’ [2].

Enforcement efforts also target commercial vehicles and public transportation, emphasizing compliance with speed limitation devices (SLD), Safety Audit (JISA), and operator permits. The operation involves 2,500 RTD/JPJ officers and staff using technology such as enforcement action cameras (EAC), body-worn cameras (BWC), and patrol units [1, 2].

During the previous Hari Raya Aidilfitri operation in March, when drones were deployed partially, authorities issued 5,000 notices under Section 114 of the Road Transport Act [1, 2].

The Op HRAA was officially launched on May 23, 2026, announcing the round-the-clock drone deployment [2]. The operation will continue through May 31, maintaining heightened enforcement on Malaysian roads during the Aidiladha festive period [1, 2].