Melaka Forges Strategic Ties With Turkiye For RM1.8 Bln Shipyard Project

MELAKA, 8 Jan (Bernama) -- Melaka is strengthening its position as a regional maritime hub with an official visit to Desan Shipyard in Istanbul, Turkiye, to finalise a strategic partnership for the ‘Enrique of Malacca Shipyard’, a modern RM1.8 billion facility to be developed in the Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the new shipyard would be located on Melaka’s coastline, offering direct access to one of the world’s busiest shipping routes, the Strait of Melaka.

“The shipyard is inspired by the renowned Malay navigator Panglima Awang, also known as Enrique de Malacca, blending maritime heritage with modern shipbuilding technology.

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“Spanning 9.42 hectares, the project will be implemented through a joint venture between SM-WEZ Corporation, the leading agency for the special economic zone, and Henry The Black Shipyard Sdn Bhd as the project developer, in strategic collaboration with Türkiye’s leading shipping firm Desan Deniz, which has 47 years of industry experience,” he said in a statement today.

Ab Rauf added that with a two-year construction timeline, the Enrique of Malacca Shipyard is expected to begin operations in 2028, serving as a catalyst for maritime industry growth in the Strait of Melaka and across Southeast Asia.

Key components of the project include shipbuilding and repair, marine services, fabrication facilities, and maritime tourism attractions.

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“Through the Enrique of Malacca Shipyard, the Melaka government is confident the project will attract international investment, create high-skilled jobs, and reinforce Melaka’s role as a key player in the global maritime industry.

“This project not only enhances the state’s maritime capabilities but also revives Melaka’s maritime legacy on an international stage through technological and expertise partnerships,” he said.

-- BERNAMA