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Faqihza Mukhlish, a lecturer at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), have embarked on the transformative potential of a new digital technology solution. Faqihza and his colleague Robby Azhari created a project, Precision Medic Drone, an uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to address logistical challenges in disaster-stricken areas.
The innovation was born out of necessity following the devastating earthquake in Cianjur, which severely disrupted ground transportation and hindered the delivery of medical supplies to affected areas. In such scenarios, Faqihza believes that the importance of rapid and efficient delivery systems cannot be overstated, and digital technology plays a critical role in enabling these systems.
The Precision Medic Drone distinguishes itself from traditional logistics aircraft, such as helicopters, which are often costly and require substantial landing space. In contrast, this drone is small, agile, and capable of carrying up to 10 kilograms of supplies. It leverages advanced digital navigation and control systems to achieve precise landings using a helipad QR code, eliminating the need for specialised landing stations. This level of precision is made possible by integrating cutting-edge digital technology, which ensures that the drone can reach even the most inaccessible locations with minimal delay.
Operating at speeds of up to 60 km/h, the drone significantly reduces the time required to deliver medical equipment and other critical supplies to disaster zones. This capability is particularly vital in emergencies where time is of the essence, and the rapid deployment of resources can mean the difference between life and death.
One of the most compelling aspects of the Precision medicine is its cost-efficiency. The initial investment to develop this drone was approximately Rp150 million. However, the integration of digital technology can reduce operational costs, the drone is projected to become a highly cost-effective solution in the long term. This scalability is crucial for widespread adoption, particularly in regions with limited resources, but the need for efficient disaster response is paramount.
The Kedaireka programme’s support, (Indonesia’s government funding), has enabled Mukhlish and his team to expand the scope of their innovation beyond disaster response. For instance, the drone has been successfully deployed in a mangrove reforestation project along the coast of West Java. Here, it uses a seed launcher to accelerate the planting process, showcasing the versatility of digital technology in addressing environmental challenges. The ability to adapt digital systems for various applications demonstrates the potential for drones to contribute to a wide array of industries, from agriculture to ecological conservation.
Recognising the broader applications of this technology, Faqihza has initiated collaborations with several key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Defence, to explore drone use for military logistics. This partnership highlights the growing recognition of the importance of digital technology in modern defence strategies, where rapid, precise, and cost-effective logistics are crucial.
Faqihza envisions further collaborations with regional disaster management agencies, such as the Regional Disaster Management Agency, to enhance humanitarian missions. The ability to deliver medical supplies swiftly and efficiently in the aftermath of a disaster could revolutionise aid delivery, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters. He believes that as society becomes more familiar with drones’ positive uses, the perception of these devices will shift.
This shift indicates a broader trend in which digital technology is not just a tool for convenience but a vital component of solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges of the time. In a world increasingly reliant on digital solutions, innovations like the Precision Medic Drone exemplify how technology can be harnessed to create real-world impact, driving progress in disaster response and beyond.
