K Line Expands LNG Fleet with Two New Carriers for PETRONAS

Japan’s K Line has strengthened its long-term partnership with PETRONAS LNG after handing over two newly built LNG carriers that will support the global movement of liquefied natural gas. The additions reflect the continued investment by major shipowners in expanding modern LNG fleets to meet rising energy transportation needs.

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) has completed the delivery of two liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers for PETRONAS LNG Ltd. (PLL), marking another milestone in the company's growing presence in the LNG shipping sector.

The first vessel, Puteri Johor, was delivered on 29 May 2026, followed by Puteri Kedah on 30 June 2026. Both ships were constructed by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding in China and are owned through K Line joint venture companies.

Before entering service, the vessels were formally named during a ceremony at the shipyard on 30 April 2026. Their names pay tribute to Malaysia's cultural identity, with Puteri translating to "princess" in Malay. The names also recognize the Malaysian states of Johor and Kedah, highlighting the vessels' connection to PETRONAS and the country's LNG industry.

According to K Line, the new carriers will reinforce PETRONAS LNG's fleet capacity and contribute to the reliable transportation of LNG cargoes to customers across international markets.

The deliveries also align with K Line's medium-term business strategy, which places LNG shipping among its key investment priorities. As global demand for LNG transportation continues to grow, the company is focused on expanding its fleet through long-term charter opportunities while strengthening its position in the evolving energy shipping market.

Why this matters

• For shipowners: Continued investment in LNG carriers signals confidence in long-term demand for cleaner transitional fuels and stable charter opportunities.
• For seafarers: Fleet expansion creates demand for experienced LNG crews and reinforces the importance of specialized gas carrier operations.
• For charterers and operators: Additional modern tonnage improves fleet availability and supports dependable LNG supply chains.
• For the maritime industry: The deliveries highlight how strategic partnerships between shipowners and energy companies continue to drive investment in advanced gas transportation.

As LNG remains a key component of the global energy mix, modern carrier deliveries continue to shape the future of gas shipping. For K Line and PETRONAS LNG, these two vessels represent another step toward strengthening reliable and efficient LNG transportation worldwide.