The entrepreneur development minister told Dewan Rakyat today that discussions were ongoing with high technology providers, adding that the air mobility project could take off as early as next year.

Khairy Jamaluddin (BN-Rembau) said as a teenager, he had imagined the sight of “flying cars” when Vision 2020 was first introduced.

“At least it is not being postponed to Shared Prosperity 2030. You are the only one fulfilling the visions of 2020,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the floor.

Khairy had earlier asked on the extent of the readiness of the ecosystem needed to support the flying car industry.

Redhuan said a prototype of the car would be launched end of this year, with the cost to be borne by the private sector.

He said the project would push for the development of artificial intelligence, big data and Internet of Things.

The flying car prototype was supposed to be unveiled to the public this month.

Yesterday, Redzuan said there had been hiccups in completing the prototype due to evolving technologies which required adaptation.

Speaking to reporters later at the Parliament lobby, Redzuan said the ministry is in talks with a leading learning institution in Europe to bring in newer technology for the flying car project.

“There are two technologies we are looking at. One of them is from a leading institution of higher learning in Europe. We are negotiating to bring the technology here,” he said.

He said it may have high-end components produced from the Lynas plant in Kuantan.

He said the technology was already being developed in Europe and they were discussing if it was possible to bring it to Malaysia.

“They may even have their inaugural flight in the third quarter of next year.”

Redzuan said a private enterprise had already designed the first drone with a payload of 300kg.

He said the government was also working on establishing the legal framework for the air mobility industry but this may take some time.