K Line Delivers Third LNG Carrier for Petronas

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) has taken delivery of the 174,000-cubic-metre LNG carrier Puteri Kelantan from Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding in China on September 24, 2026. This delivery marks the third vessel in a series of four newbuilds for Petronas LNG Ltd. (PLL), a subsidiary of Malaysia’s energy giant Petronas. According to sources, the final carrier is scheduled for delivery in November of this year.

Construction and Specifications

The Puteri Kelantan measures approximately 299 meters long with a 46.4-meter beam, a 26.25-meter depth, and an 11.5-meter draught. Its membrane-type cargo tanks are designed to safely store liquefied natural gas (LNG). The vessel is powered by an X-DF dual-fuel low-speed diesel engine, providing a service speed of 19.5 knots. Additionally, the propulsion plant includes advanced control systems that reduce methane slip when operating on gas and lower greenhouse-gas emissions.

The delivery of Puteri Kelantan follows the successful launches of two sister vessels: Puteri Johor, delivered on May 29, 2026, and Puteri Kedah, handed over on June 30, 2026. These new additions to Petronas LNG’s fleet are part of a broader series of vessels built by Hudong-Zhonghua for various global customers, reflecting the growing demand for reliable LNG transportation.

Joint Venture and Financing

The joint venture company leading the project is owned by K Line. The financial support comes from Bank of Communications Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., China Merchants Energy Shipping Co., Ltd., and China Merchants Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. A naming ceremony was held on September 2, 2026, at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding to name the vessel Puteri Kelantan. The event was attended by representatives from Petronas LNG, the shipyard, K Line, and the financiers involved in the joint venture project.

The fourth sister vessel, Puteri Negeri Sembilan, is set for delivery in November 2026. This consistent schedule underscores K Line’s commitment to expanding its LNG business as a top priority area of investment. According to Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, the new carriers are intended to strengthen Petronas LNG's fleet and support reliable deliveries to its customers.

Market Context

The expansion of Petronas LNG’s fleet through these newbuilds is in response to increasing global demand for natural gas. The delivery of the Puteri Kelantan continues a trend observed by industry analysts, where major energy players are investing in expanding their LNG carrier fleets. This development aligns with Petronas’ Medium-Term Management Plan published in May 2022, which positions the LNG business as a key area for future investments.

The timing of these deliveries is crucial in light of geopolitical tensions and market dynamics. The delivery schedule allows K Line to maintain its service commitments despite potential disruptions in supply chains or operational challenges. This consistent delivery pattern also provides assurance to Petronas LNG’s customers, ensuring reliable energy supplies amid increasing demand.

What this means for Operators

The expanded fleet of LNG carriers from K Line and Petronas LNG will enhance the flexibility and reliability of global LNG transportation networks. For ship operators, these new vessels represent a significant investment in modern, efficient technologies that can better meet the growing energy needs of both domestic and international markets. The addition of more LNG carriers also underscores the ongoing importance of this segment within the maritime industry, as global demand for cleaner energy sources continues to rise.