PETALING JAYA: Lianson Fleet Group Bhd (LFG) has entered into a memorandum of agreement with a Singapore-based party for the acquisition of a Supramax bulk carrier (MV Sea Affluence) for RM60.9mil.
In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the vessel chartering and ship management services firm said the vessel was built in 2012 with a deadweight tonnage of 56,735 tonnes, gross tonnage of 33,044, and net tonnage of 19,231.
It said the vessel has a length overall of 189.99 metres, moulded breadth of 32.26 metres, moulded depth of 18 metres, and is equipped with five cargo holds, five hatches and 4 x 30-tonne cranes.
“The seller is incorporated in Singapore and is an unrelated third party to LFG.”
LFG said the vessel acquisition is in line with its strategy to expand its marine transportation fleet and diversify beyond the offshore support vessels sector.
“The vessel will strengthen the group’s recurring income stream with its long-term charter potential and utilisation, thereby enhancing earnings visibility.”
On prospects, LFG said demand and charter rates for Supramax bulk carriers remain healthy, supported by regional trade flows of bulk cargo and commodities.
“Elevated tonne-miles are also observed, driven by cargo being rerouted over longer distances due to trade dislocations, canal constraints, and regional supply-demand imbalances.
“The vessel acquisition is expected to strengthen the group’s earnings visibility taking advantage of strong current charter rates and high utilisation rates of similar assets.”
