Zhoushan, China | 27 January – Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL), part of the Kuok Maritime Group, today marked the naming of its next-generation 40,000-deadweight-tonne (DWT) multi-purpose vessel, PAC LEO, at PaxOcean Zhoushan Shipyard.
PAC LEO is the second vessel from PCL’s new series of 40,000 DWT modern multi-purpose vessels jointly developed by PCL and PaxOcean. The series forms a key pillar of PCL’s fleet-renewal programme, reflecting the company’s long-term focus on operational flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability across project, breakbulk, and dry bulk trades.
“This 40,000 DWT MPV series reflects how we renew our fleet—disciplined, reliability-led, and focused on long-term sustainability. At the same time, each newbuild is a platform to step up capability and performance, so the fleet stays versatile and future-ready,” said Hor Weng Yew, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PCL.

Design Consistency with Operational Efficiency in Focus
Designed with efficiency, safety, and sustainability in mind, PAC LEO reflects PCL’s ongoing commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and aligns with the company’s decarbonisation roadmap.
The vessel features a flexible deck layout and cargo-handling configuration that enables the vessel to switch efficiently between different cargo profiles—supporting complex lifts and specialised cargo movements alongside conventional dry cargo shipments.
Energy-efficient propulsion and power-management arrangements — including a shaft generator delivering up to 2% improvement in energy efficiency — help reduce overall energy demand. PAC LEO is shore-power ready, aligning with efforts to reduce emissions at berth where infrastructure permits.
Strengthening PCL’s Modern Multi-Purpose Fleet
As part of PCL’s next-generation MPV series, PAC LEO strengthens the company’s ability to support diverse cargo requirements while maintaining a strong focus on safety, reliability, and environmental responsibility.
By combining proven vessel design, operational versatility, and disciplined fleet renewal, the series reinforces PCL’s position as a maritime logistics solutions provider delivering dependable and sustainable transport services worldwide.
PCL extends its appreciation to PaxOcean Zhoushan Shipyard, the design and technical teams, ABS and all partners whose collaboration contributed to this milestone.
About Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL)
Founded in 1973, Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL) is a Singapore-headquartered shipowner and operator providing maritime logistics solutions across dry bulk, project, and multi-purpose cargo segments. As part of the Kuok Maritime Group, PCL combines decades of technical expertise with a strong commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability to deliver dependable shipping services to global partners and customers.
Media Enquiries
Sabrina Chew
Corporate Communications
Pacific Carriers Limited
Sabrina.chew@pacificcarriers.com.sg
+65 9783 8699

Zhoushan, China 20 November 2025 – Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL), a part of the Kuok Maritime Group, today celebrated the naming of its newest 40,000-deadweight-tonne (DWT) multi-purpose vessel, PAC LIBRA, at PaxOcean Zhoushan Shipyard in China.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from PCL’s customers, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and other strategic partners — reflecting a shared commitment to advancing safe, sustainable, and future-ready low carbon shipping solutions.
PAC LIBRA is the first in a new series of 40,000 DWT modern multi-purpose vessels jointly developed by PCL and PaxOcean. This milestone marks a significant step forward in PCL’s fleet-renewal programme, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to efficient, adaptable, and low-carbon maritime solutions.

PCL MD & CEO Mr Hor Weng Yew giving his address at the naming ceremony
“The addition of PAC LIBRA underscores our commitment to renew and optimise our fleet with modern tonnage — strengthening our operational flexibility while maintaining efficiency across key project and dry bulk trades,” said Mr. Hor Weng Yew, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PCL.

The naming ceremony was attended by senior representatives from Kuok Group Singapore, PCL and PaxOcean as well as customers, international partners and ABS.
Innovation and Versatility by Design
Built with efficiency, sustainability, and crew safety at its core, PAC LIBRA reflects PCL’s ongoing commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and aligns with the company’s decarbonisation roadmap.
The vessel introduces a new generation of design features tailored for project-cargo operations, including a unique twin-crane pedestal configuration with wide open decks, enabling flexibility in handling heavy lift and oversized cargoes.
It is equipped with energy-saving technologies, a state-of-the-art hydraulic tween-deck system, improving safety, and supporting smoother, more reliable cargo operations. The vessel is also ESS- and LNG-ready, future-proofing it in line with PCL’s decarbonisation ambitions.
Together, these innovations enable safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible operations — setting a new benchmark for multi-purpose vessels in the project-cargo segment.

Mdm Kay Kuok, Director of Kuok Group Singapore and Godmother of PAC LIBRA presented the gift from Godmother to Capt. Liu Bo, Master of the vessel.
Building a Future-Ready Fleet
As the first of its class, PAC LIBRA strengthens PCL’s ability to serve customers across a broad spectrum of cargoes — from project and breakbulk to dry bulk commodities.
By combining technical innovation, design efficiency, and operational versatility, this new series underscores PCL’s position as a maritime logistics solutions provider offering safe, sustainable, and reliable transport services worldwide.
PCL extends its appreciation to PaxOcean Zhoushan Shipyard, the design and technical teams, ABS, and all partners whose collaboration made this milestone possible. As PAC LIBRA prepares to enter service, PCL looks forward to continuing its partnerships with customers to deliver efficient and sustainable maritime logistics solutions.

The event concluded with a shipboard tour for the distinguished guests.
About Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL)
Founded in 1973, Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL) is a Singapore-headquartered shipowner and operator providing maritime logistics solutions across dry bulk, project, and multi-purpose cargo segments. As part of the Kuok Maritime Group, PCL combines decades of technical expertise with a strong commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability to deliver dependable shipping services to global partners and customers.
Media Enquiries:
Sabrina Chew
PCL Corporate Communications
Sabrina.chew@pacificcarriers.com.sg
+65 9783 8699

The partnership marks the launch of a pilot cadetship programme designed to enhance cadet training and education
JAKARTA, INDONESIA/ SINGAPORE, 25 February 2025— Kuok Maritime Group (KMG), a leading provider of integrated suite of maritime solutions globally, is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL) and Pacc Offshore Services Holdings (POSH) with two established Indonesian maritime academies, Politeknik Ilmu Pelayaran Semarang (PIP Semarang) and Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Pelayaran Jakarta (STIP Jakarta).Thiscollaboration aims to recruit cadets currently enrolled in the academies’ four-year programme and support their training and education, equipping them with the skills needed for a successful maritime career.
Under the MOU, KMG and the maritime academies will collaborate to develop selected cadets enrolled in the academies' four-year Nautical and Engineering Diploma IV programme. The academies will be responsible for the overall execution of the four-year programme, setting up dedicated classes to provide training and education aligned with their curriculum and KMG’s training requirements. Additionally, PCL and POSH will provide the cadets with sea attachment training onboard their respective fleets of vessels.


Mr. Hor Weng Yew, Director of KMG and CEO of Pacific Carriers Limited, said: “We are pleased to announce our collaboration with PIP Semarang and STIP Jakarta. These partnerships are a strategic step in our commitment to shaping the next generation of maritime seafaring officers by providing them with high-quality training and first-hand experience onboard our fleet of vessels. By collaborating with established and like-minded maritime academies, we aim to train and produce cadets ready to navigate the evolving maritime landscape and contribute to the industry’s long-term growth.
As a leading maritime group, we are excited to provide cadets with comprehensive career opportunities after graduation. Beyond shipboard roles, we are also committed to offering career pathways, including shore-based opportunities across our wide span of maritime business, ensuring talents who join us have long-term growth prospects in our group.”
Dr. Ir. Mafrisal, M.T., M.Mar. E.PIP, Principal of PIP Semarang, said: “PIP Semarang extends its heartfelt appreciation for the collaboration between KMG and PIP Semarang in maritime education and cadet training. This partnership will create new opportunities for both parties to shape the future of maritime professionals by providing them with hands-on experience in a world-class maritime environment and enhancing their career prospects. It aligns with PIP Semarang’s commitment to producing highly competent and professional maritime officers. We believe this collaboration will benefit our students and contribute to the growth and development of the maritime sector."
Dr. Capt. Tri Cahyadi, M.H., M.Mar., Principal of STIP Jakarta, said: “We are delighted to welcome KMG as a partner in our mission to provide students with international exposure and career opportunities. This collaboration aligns perfectly with STIP’s vision of having 70% of its graduates pursue careers that meet international standards through the support of PCL and POSH. By working together, we aim to enhance the quality and number of our graduates, preparing them for success in the maritime industry.”
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Kuok Maritime Group
Kuok Maritime Group (KMG) includes the PaxOcean Group (PaxOcean), Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL), PACC Offshore Services Holdings (POSH), Pacific Workboats Pte Ltd (PWPL), McPEC Marine & Offshore Engineering Pte Ltd (McPEC) and KSL Maritime Ventures (KMV). KMG offers an integrated suite of maritime solutions to businesses globally. It serves the maritime value chain from provision of offshore maritime and subsea support services, shipping and transportation, newbuilding, harbour and terminal towage services as well as turnkey solutions for marine, offshore, energy, market in engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) to supporting start-ups offering technological and innovative solutions to the industry. The group also leads the Coastal Sustainability Alliance in Singapore, working with like-minded industry partners to build a sustainable next-generation maritime ecosystem. Visit Kuok Maritime Group at https://kuokgroup.com.sg/businesses/#maritime.
Media Enquiries:
Penelope Koh
Kuok Maritime Group
M: +65 9827 6178
Email: penelope.koh@kuokmaritime.com.sg

Singapore, 14th January 2025 – The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), PaxOcean, and Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing retrofit strategies. This partnership addresses the need for effective Energy Efficiency Technologies (EETs) to enhance the sustainability and operational lifespan of vessels amidst stricter decarbonization targets and an aging global fleet.
Paving the way for the adoption of Energy Efficiency Technologies (EETs)
With global efforts to meet ambitious climate targets, the shipping industry is motivated to adopt solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce emissions. Aging vessels, whose designs and engine efficiencies are becoming less aligned with modern standards, require retrofits to remain operational and compliant. Retrofitting with EETs offers a practical path to extend their useful life while contributing to global climate goals.
The collaboration between ABS, PaxOcean and PCL will focus on identifying effective EETs for vessel types such as bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, and gas carriers. The partners will also analyze trends in the retrofit market, projecting medium-term (3–5 years) and long-term developments to support informed decision-making.
Combining Expertise to Drive Results
All three partners bring their unique set of expertise to the table. ABS will provide feasibility assessments and technical solutions to align retrofits with future regulations and operational needs. PaxOcean will focus on the technical feasibility and efficient execution of retrofit solutions, while PCL will ensure strategies are practical and cost-effective through operational insights. Together, they aim to deliver meaningful results for the maritime industry.
Mr Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman and CEO of ABS, said: “Retrofit of low carbon and energy efficiency technologies are going to be critical if the global fleet is to meet decarbonization targets. ABS, PCL and PaxOcean bring together world-class technological expertise, a laser focus on safety and a shared innovative mindset to support ship owners and operators to extend the life of their fleets by reducing the carbon intensity of their operations.”
Mr Tan Thai Yong, Managing Director & CEO of PaxOcean, said: “By leveraging our shipyards’ operational and technical capabilities, the joint development of a retrofit strategy with PCL and ABS, provides comprehensive insights into innovative solutions that enhance vessel lifespan and support decarbonisation goals.”
Mr Hor Weng Yew, Managing Director and CEO of Pacific Carriers Limited, said:
"As a shipowner, we recognize the importance of aligning operational needs with sustainability goals. We believe retrofitting existing vessels is one of the viable solutions to meeting decarbonization targets while maintaining efficiency. Through this partnership, we aim to share practical, data-driven insights that can drive effective retrofit strategies for the benefit of the entire industry."
The signing of this MoU highlights the importance of retrofitting to meet global decarbonization goals while maintaining fleet viability. Through their combined efforts, ABS, PaxOcean and PCL are committed to delivering practical and impactful solutions for the maritime sector.
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Note to Editors: High-resolution images and additional company information are available upon request.
About ABS
ABS, a leading global provider of classification and technical advisory services to the marine and offshore industries, is committed to setting standards for safety and excellence in design and construction. Focused on safe and practical application of advanced technologies and digital solutions, ABS works with industry and clients to develop accurate and cost-effective compliance, optimized performance and operational efficiency for marine and offshore assets.
About PaxOcean
PaxOcean is a service provider specializing in the construction, conversion, and repair of marine and offshore assets. The Group owns and operates five shipyards across Singapore, China, and Indonesia, along with an MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) facility in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 2007, PaxOcean offers a wide range of services, including integrated solutions, newbuilding, module fabrication, green recycling, and conversions for both conventional and renewable energy assets.
About Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL)
Pacific Carriers Limited (PCL) was established in 1973 and has since grown into a leading shipping operator in the maritime industry. PCL provides shipping services and maritime supply chain solutions for customers across the globe. We operate a diversified shipping fleet to move and deliver a wide range of bulk and specialised cargoes for the commodities, energy and industrial markets.
For media inquiries, please contact:
ABS
Jennifer Mire
Manager, External Communications
Tel: +1-281-877-5845
Tel: +1-281-703-8905
Email: jmire@eagle.org
PaxOcean
Juliana Tan (Ms)
Assistant Manager
Marketing & Communication
Tel: 9236 8519
Email: juliana.tan@paxocean.com
PCL
Sabrina Chew (Ms)
Manager
Corporate Communications
Tel: 9783 8699
Email: sabrina.chew@pacificcarriers.com.sg