Warisan Shipping Line (WSL) and global logistics leader DP World have signed a strategic agreement aimed at strengthening Brunei Darussalam’s position as a key maritime and logistics hub within the BIMP-EAGA region.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signals a decisive step forward in enhancing regional container freight services and supply chain connectivity.
In his speech at the signing ceremony, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications said that the partnership marks a moment where intent is translated into action.
“Brunei’s strategic location at the crossroads of regional shipping routes underscores the growing importance of resilient and efficient maritime networks,” said Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha.
The minister noted that the collaboration aligns with the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam’s Navigating 2030 strategic plan, which seeks to develop a thriving maritime sector and position Brunei as a trusted regional gateway.
The MOU establishes a framework to combine local expertise with international capability, focusing on the development and operation of container services linking Brunei with Southern Philippines and expanding routes across the BIMP-EAGA region. It will also enable the development of future logistics initiatives and supporting facilities in a dynamic, market-responsive manner.
On his part, Chairman of Warisan Shipping Line Zakaria Pehin Dato Haji Abd Aziz highlighted that WSL currently operates a two-vessel fleet servicing corridors between Singapore, Kota Kinabalu, Muara, Sarawak, Brunei and Sabah.
He expressed gratitude for the support of key agencies, including the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, BEDB and Muara Port Company, noting that the agreement will enable expansion into Southern Philippines, support the optimisation of smaller port operations there and improve transshipment efficiency with DP World’s Sapangar Bay Container Port in Sabah.
Meanwhile, Executive Vice President of DP World South East Asia described the MOU as the beginning of a strategic and long-term collaboration to develop world-class container freight services.
“Brunei holds a strategically important position in regional maritime connectivity,” said Xavier Marc Michel Elgller, adding that DP World is committed to enabling trade and strengthening supply chains in line with Brunei’s long-term development objectives.
Elgller highlighted that the agreement establishes a structured framework for business planning and investment readiness to ensure future projects are well-governed.
The minister also acknowledged the vital role of the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) and relevant ministries in facilitating the partnership, underscoring that such collaborative efforts are essential to transforming national strategic objectives into real capability.
The partnership is expected to enhance trade flows, support small and medium enterprises, and contribute to Brunei’s economic diversification and resilience. The minister concluded by expressing confidence that the collaboration will deliver tangible commercial and strategic benefits, reinforcing Brunei’s role in regional maritime trade.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
