Petronas charters five newbuild LNG carriers from MISC

Malaysian energy giant Petronas has officially secured a 20-year time charter agreement with MISC Berhad for five newbuild 174,000 cbm LNG carriers. These vessels, currently under construction at the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding yard in China, are scheduled for delivery between January and February 2026. This significant fleet expansion reinforces the long-standing partnership between Petronas and MISC, ensuring robust maritime logistics for global LNG exports while setting a high benchmark for modern, high-capacity gas transportation infrastructure in the regional energy sector.

The operation of these sophisticated LNG carriers must strictly adhere to the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk, known as the IGC Code, as mandated by SOLAS Chapter VII. Furthermore, compliance with MARPOL Annex VI regarding nitrogen oxide emissions and energy efficiency design index (EEDI) requirements remains critical for these newbuilds. Classification society requirements from bodies like DNV or ABS will govern the structural integrity and safety management systems, ensuring that all operational protocols align with international maritime safety standards for gas-fueled vessels.

This fleet expansion creates immediate career opportunities for masters, chief engineers, and navigating officers with specialized LNG experience. These professionals must familiarize themselves with the advanced dual-fuel propulsion systems and the specific cargo containment technologies integrated into these Hudong-Zhonghua builds. Officers should prioritize obtaining updated Gas Tanker Cargo Operations endorsements and ensure their certification remains compliant with the latest STCW amendments to qualify for these high-responsibility roles on the new Petronas-chartered vessels.