Malaysian International Shipping Company (MISC) has entered into a multi-year charter agreement with Petronas LNG Ltd. (PLL), a subsidiary of Petronas Group. This move aims to enhance the reliability of Petronas’ long-term LNG supply while supporting customers’ energy transition towards a low-carbon future.
Under the agreement, Petronas LNG will charter five newly built liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers ordered by MISC for a term of 20 years. These LNG carriers will be built by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, and are expected to begin operation between 2029 and 2030.
It is understood that MISC placed orders with Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding for 5+5 LNG carriers with a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters each on January 30, 2026 (3+3 vessels) and February 27, 2026 (2+2 vessels). This type of vessel is the fifth-generation “Changheng Series” flagship vessel independently developed and designed by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding. It boasts outstanding advantages such as safety, reliability, green efficiency, and excellent economic performance. More than 20 core technologies are completely independently developed, and it has achieved world-leading levels in key performance aspects such as energy efficiency, environmental protection indicators, cargo storage, and operational economy.
According to MISC, the new vessels will adopt modern and efficient technologies that meet environmental and operational standards, including the latest XDF2.1 propulsion technology, shaft generators that can improve fuel efficiency during navigation, and onboard reliquefaction units for effective management of boil-off gas (BOG).
A Petronas spokesperson commented on the charter agreement, stating: “The addition of these LNG carriers marks another significant milestone for Petronas. We will continue to leverage the combined strengths of our various business segments to create long-term value across the entire LNG value chain. By aligning the Group’s growth objectives with MISC’s maritime expertise, we will strengthen our integrated capabilities and solidify Petronas’ position as a trusted and reliable global LNG supplier. ”