Pre-launching of two PETRONAS Safina Phase 1 vessels marks milestone for S’wak’s maritime industry

Lee Kim Shin at the pre-launching of the vessels at Sarawak Slipway in Miri on Oct 28, 2023.

MIRI, Oct 28: The Association of Marine Industries of Malaysia (AMIM) has announced the pre-launching of two PETRONAS Safina Phase 1 vessels, marking a significant milestone for the industry and the nation.

The vessels, owned by JVC Megah Sdn Bhd and Tegas Navigation Sdn Bhd, were designed in a Sibu-based design house, Naval Arch Marine.

The pre-launching of the two vessels was presided over by Minister for Transport Sarawak Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin at Sarawak Slipway today.


“Let us not only witness a vessel take to the sea but also commemorate the centuries of maritime heritage that have brought us to this point.

“It is a testament to our ability to blend tradition with innovation and to honour our past while embracing a sustainable future,” Lee said in his opening remarks.

He further said that the event is a testament to the sheer capability, quality, and competitiveness that define Sarawak’s shipyards.

Moreover, it resonates with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) unwavering commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the global shipping industry by 50 per cent before 2050.

Lee added that in this endeavour, Sarawak’s shipbuilding and ship repair industry stands at the helm towards a more sustainable future in the maritime industry.

“By constructing vessels that are seaworthy but also energy-efficient and pioneering innovative technologies to curtail emissions, our industry is a beacon of hope.

“We’re charting a course towards a future where shipping is synonymous with sustainability. I am confident that Sarawak will remain at the forefront of this global transition, showcasing our commitment to a greener maritime sector.”

Also present were Sarawak Shipway executive director Roger Chew, AMIM vice president Vincent Ling, Tega Navigation chief operating officer Fakhrurrazi May Hasan, and JVC Mega managing director Jolly Tagong. — DayakDaily