Malaysia’s Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) has progressed its roadmap for LNG as a transition fuel, partnering with shipping line CMA CGM to complete a world first bunkering operation.
The port authority oversaw refuelling of the vessel Monaco in February, marking the first LNG bunkering operation for a car carrier owned by CMA CGM.
“This milestone paves the way for further growth in LNG bunkering at PTP, contributing significantly to the decarbonisation of the maritime industry,” Tan Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh, Chairman of PTP, said.
LNG expansion
Ranked as the world’s 15th largest container port, PTP is a major nexus in the global transport system and a key driver for LNG uptake in Southeast Asia. The port has capacity to handle around 13 million teu annually with a heavy focus on transhipment.
Following the successful refuelling of the Monaco, the port authority now plans to expand its LNG bunkering business. PTP’s container terminal is a joint venture between APM Terminals and Malaysian infrastructure group MMC.
The bunkering operation was carried out in partnership with state-owned Petronas Trading Corporation Sendirian Berhad (PETCO). Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, PETCO trades crude oil and petroleum products produced by affiliates and third parties, with wholly-owned subsidiaries PETCO Trading DMCC and PETCO Trading UK operating in Dubai and London and Limited.
“In preparation for the LNG bunkering operation, PTP worked closely since March 2022 with PETCO and CMA CGM, as well as with various other related government agencies to organise table-top exercises (TTX) and workshops, before carrying out the deployment exercise,” Mark Hardiman, Chief Executive Officer of PTP, said.
Growth strategy
Hardiman was appointed as CEO of PTP in January this year, and brings 29 years of port sector experience across three continents and seven countries. He has laid out a strategy to deliver long-term growth and value for all stakeholders, building on the port’s position as a leading regional transhipment hub.
“I look forward to working with the board of directors and the team and am confident in our ability to achieve our growth plans and further cement our strong relations with our clients,” Hardiman said.
