In a major leap for Malaysia’s maritime and energy industries, Nam Cheong Group, the country’s largest offshore support vessel (OSV) builder, unveiled the SKG 520, the nation’s and Sarawak’s first locally-owned, purpose-built Multi-Purpose Support Vessel (MPSV) during the International Energy Week (IEW) 2025 in Kuching.
Engineered to support the next generation of energy demands, the SKG 520 offers a unique hybrid platform capable of serving both traditional oil & gas operations and the rapidly growing renewable energy sector, including offshore wind and green hydrogen.
The vessel features five custom-fit configurations that include:
- Geotechnical Drilling Rig for seabed characterization and geotechnical surveys
- Subsea ROV Deployment for remote underwater inspection and operations
- Air Diving Deployment for supporting subsea maintenance and construction with air diving capabilities
- Survey Equipment (Streamers and Sonars) for comprehensive marine surveys and data acquisition
- Walk-To-Work Gangway for safe personnel transfers to offshore installations
This adaptability positions the SKG 520 as one of the most versatile support vessels in the region, built for evolving industry needs across Southeast Asia and beyond.
“The SKG 520 is a testament to Nam Cheong Group’s unwavering commitment to engineering excellence and our proactive approach in addressing the evolving demands of the global energy landscape,” said Leong Seng Keat, Group CEO. “As Sarawak positions itself as a leader in the green hydrogen economy and offshore renewables, the SKG 520 stands ready as a versatile, purpose-built asset, proudly owned by a Malaysian and Sarawakian company, to support these critical developments both locally and internationally.”
Strategic Support for Sarawak’s Green Economy Vision
The nveiling drew strong attention from national leaders, including a visit by Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Zohari, Premier of Sarawak, and YB Datuk Dr. Haji Hazland Abang Hipni, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability.
Their presence signals alignment with Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) and growing investments into sustainable marine infrastructure as part of the region’s green economy push.
From Sarawak to the World: A Legacy of Innovation
The SKG 520 builds on Nam Cheong’s successful retrofitting of the SK Eonik, a vessel currently chartered in Japan for offshore wind work. With over 60 years of shipbuilding experience and more than 140 vessels delivered globally, Nam Cheong continues to grow its reputation as a future-forward marine solutions provider.
“From our roots in Sarawak, we have consistently pushed the boundaries of shipbuilding. The SKG 520 embodies our legacy of innovation and adaptability, showcasing the advanced capabilities of our Miri Dockyard and our skilled workforce. This vessel is not just a new build; it is a symbol of our dedication to providing integrated marine solutions that are truly future-ready,” Tan Sri Datuk Tiong Su Kouk, Founder of Nam Cheong Group, added.
A formal naming ceremony for the SKG 520 is scheduled for August 2025, marking the vessel’s readiness for full deployment.
