Brunei Darussalam marked a significant milestone in its maritime industry with the commencement of the Hull 211 Shipbuilding Ceremony, officially launching construction of the nation’s first “Made-in-Brunei” vessel at Anson International Sdn Bhd’s shipyard in Pulau Muara Besar.
The launch was officiated by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha.
The event also marked the official contract signing between Anson International and Fast Offshore Supply (FOS) followed by a symbolic keel signing to signify the start of the vessel’s construction journey.
The shipbuilding capable of carrying 80 passengers, represents a significant step forward in the nation’s journey towards industrial capability, innovation and maritime excellence.
Hull 211 is a 180-foot specialised Crew Transfer Vessel (CTV) featuring an aluminium hull and superstructure, with capacity for up to 80 passengers. The vessel is purpose-built to support offshore operations while prioritising efficiency and functionality.
In his welcoming remarks, Interim General Manager of Anson International Haji Musa bin Haji Adnin said the ceremony marked a defining new chapter not only for the company, but also for Brunei Darussalam’s maritime sector.
He noted that Hull 211 symbolises the expansion of Anson International’s vision from marine maintenance and decommissioning into shipbuilding.
He added that the company’s strategic move into shipbuilding would help create more jobs, nurture local talent, invest in technology and strengthen the domestic economy.
“Together, we are not only building a vessel, but also a lasting legacy of partnership and achievement,” he said when acknowledging collaboration with Fast Offshore Supply Pte Ltd (FOS).
The event also witnessed the formal contract signing between Anson International and FOS, followed by a symbolic keel signing ceremony signifying the foundation of the vessel and the official start of its construction journey.
Haji Musa said the partnership with FOS would bring valuable technical expertise while strengthening local capability development through knowledge transfer and hands-on industry exposure for Bruneian professionals.
He also expressed appreciation to ministries, agencies and members of the Brunei Maritime Cluster for facilitating approvals, licensing processes and regulatory coordination essential to the project’s progress.
The project supports the aspirations of Wawasan Brunei 2035 through efforts to develop a skilled local workforce, diversify the economy and position Brunei on the global maritime stage.
Describing Hull 211 as a symbol of progress and national pride, Haji Musa said the vessel would stand as a testament to the dedication of the workforce and the nation’s growing industrial capabilities.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
