EPMS PARTNERS SHLTC, ICSB TO EXPLORE OFFSHORE O&G PROJECTS

KOTA KINABALU, May 20 (Bernama) -- Eastern Pacific Marine Services Sdn Bhd (EPMS), a subsidiary of EPIC Bhd, has signed a strategic partnership with SINOPEC Heavy Lifting and Transportation Co. Ltd. (SHLTC) and Innoprise Corporation Sdn Bhd (ICSB), the investment arm of Yayasan Sabah Group.

The partnership aims to explore upstream and downstream oil and gas opportunities in Malaysia, particularly off the coast of Sabah, leveraging the parties’ technical expertise, operational capabilities, and regional insights to deliver value-driven solutions and support shared growth in the oil and gas (O&G) sector

The tripartite agreement was formalised at a signing ceremony by EPIC chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Muhtar Suhaili, SHLTC general manager Liu Han, and ICSB executive chairman Datuk Jasnih Daya.

In a statement, Jasnih expressed his appreciation to EPMS and SHLTC for the opportunity to participate in the venture.

“We are grateful for their confidence in us and proud to take part as a 30 per cent shareholder in this collaboration,” he said.

Meanwhile, Muhtar emphasised the significance of the partnership, which aligns with Malaysia’s focus on competitive O&G projects, including responsible Engineering, Preparation, Removal and Restoration (EPRR) services for offshore decommissioning.

“This collaboration reflects the shared vision of all parties in driving operational excellence and supporting Malaysia’s energy transition agenda.

“It is not merely about project execution, but a shared commitment to excellence, integrity, talent development, and sustainable growth,” he said.

He added that the partnership would leverage ICSB’s regional expertise, SHLTC’s global capacity, and EPIC’s proven track record in marine services and onshore disposal, creating a capable, competitive team equipped to meet the complex demands of offshore facility projects.

Meanwhile, SHLTC’s vice-president Guo Zhong said the offshore platform decommissioning project represents a significant step in Malaysia’s energy sector and serves as a benchmark for sustainable practices in the global energy transition.

“We are committed to utilising our technical expertise and project management excellence to ensure a smooth collaboration with our Malaysian partners.

“Our commitment goes beyond project delivery – it includes operational safety, execution efficiency, and environmental protection, while supporting long-term sustainable development in the region,” he added.

He said the partnership embodies the core principle of mutual benefit and shared success, combining the parties’ expertise, integrated resource management, and advanced technology.

According to the parties, the partnership also lays the foundation for long-term collaboration focused on knowledge transfer, local content development, and innovation in marine engineering, commissioning, and decommissioning within Malaysia’s offshore energy sector.

-- BERNAMA