Brunei Methanol Company (BMC) recently launched its onshore loading facility, providing methanol accessibility to the local market that can be utilised as a feedstock for further value-adding processes.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, as representative of the Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy) said that the availability of methanol domestically generates a competitive cost than those sourced internationally.
“Brunei Darussalam is laying down strong foundations to transform itself not only as a chemical hub but also creates a pathway to attract manufacturers to set up their plants in the country, particularly those in the automotive components, textiles and medical equipment sectors,” said Dato Seri Paduka Hj Khairuddin Haji Abdul Hamid.


The deputy minister further said that several local and international companies, both in operations and those in the pipeline, have approached BMC to off-take their product for use in the country.
“One such company is Polygel Industries Sdn Bhd, which seeks to source methanol locally for their production of antioxidants, having relied on imports since their startup more than five years ago,” said Dato Hj Khairuddin.
He added that it is hoped that strategic partners, MGC and Itochu, to continue exploring and building synergies within the company and with other companies in its ecosystem and beyond.


“… such as Brunei Fertilizer Industries, Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd and more, to realise other downstream opportunities that will further add value to hydrocarbon resources,” said the deputy minister.
As the country’s first methanol plant which began production in 2010, BMC has provided a template and reference for future chemical companies who intend to establish themselves in Brunei.
“Moving forward, we expect BMC to continue performing its role as one of the industry’s main anchors to deliver other in-country benefits, including helping the industry towards creating a green economy, meeting its social responsibilities and realising its commitments in developing local small and medium enterprises,” said Dato Hj Khairuddin.


Since its inception in 2007, the project has provided jobs to nearly 200 people, comprising more than 90 per cent locals and permanent residents.
The company’s continuous investment in developing local talent, emphasising safety and staff professionalism, the project has enabled the sharing of methanol production, storage and transport technology.
“It has provided Brunei Darussalam access to important chemical markets in Northeast and Southeast Asia,” he said.
The plant’s routine and special operations, noted the deputy minister, continue to generate spinoff opportunities to the benefit of local and international businesses and vendors”.


“The sales of methanol not only generate export earnings for Brunei Darussalam, but also support our trade partners, providing them with a base material to produce a wide range of goods such as paints, disinfectants and bottles,” he said.
BMC’s latest facility is aligned with Wawasan Brunei 2035 framework, Bruneianization Directive and Brunei Darussalam’s Economic Blueprint Aspiration 1: “Productive and Vibrant Businesses” which aspiration envisions businesses to compete, grow and sustain themselves by venturing into new markets and exploring untapped opportunities.
On his part, BMC Chief Executive Officer Jesús Enrique Mora Marín emphasised BMC’s dedication to fulfilling Brunei’s strategic priorities – economic diversification, creating value-added employment, and enhance the country’s downstream oil and gas sector.
“In support of the government’s direction to create a sustainable future for generations to come, BMC is committed to participating in CO2 emissions reduction initiatives, industrial decarbonization and ensuring an effective use of natural resources”, he said.



Sharing the same sentiment, BMC Chairman Takayuki Miyamoto reaffirmed BMC’s commitment to exploring new markets and creating opportunities that will contribute to the long-term prosperity of the nation.
“This Onshore Loading Facilities is more than a physical expansion to BMC’s infrastructure. It represents our dedication to the development of Brunei’s economy and the strengthening of its downstream diversification drive”, he said.
Also present at the ceremony were Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Brunei Darussalam Maeda Toru; BMC Board of Directors; as well as regulators and industry stakeholders.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN