SILK Holdings Berhad (SILK Holdings), via its 70% owned subsidiary Jasa Merin (M) Sdn Bhd (“Jasa Meri n”), entered into an agreement with Muhibbah Marine Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd (“Muhi bbah”) to construct three new Anchor Handling Tug Supply (“AHTS”) vessels for a t otal consideration of approximately RM 216 million, said in the company's press release. This is part of its ongoing fleet renewal and expansion program. The vessels – consisting two (2) 62-metre, 60-tonne bollard pull vessels and one 70- metre, 120-tonne bollard pull vessel - will be equi pped to meet the latest specifications and customer demands. The 62-metre vessels are rated at 5,220 brake horsepower (“BHP”) while the 70-metre vessels has a rating of 10,800 B HP. The vessels are expected to be delivered in stages from the end of the current cal endar year until early 2014.
Dato’ Mohd Azlan bin Hashim, Executive Chairman of SILK Holdings said, “The vessels being contracted for today signifies just how far J asa Merin has progressed. Once completed and fully operational, the new vessels will add to Jasa Merin’s vessel roster, bringing it to 21 owned vessels. The fleet expansion being undertaken also signifies Jasa Merin’s commitment to the Government’s efforts to develop t he Oil, Gas & Energy Sector, which represents one of the National Key Economic Areas ( “NKEA”). This sector is a key contributor to economic development and plays a sig nificant role in nation-building. Those of us associated with Jasa Merin feel privileged to be given the opportunity to play a part in the Government’s efforts to develop the sector. Jasa Me rin also believes it has the capacity and capability to continue to contribute to the various efforts under this NKEA.”