MALAYSIA, 29/03/2024 (Asia News Channels) - Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNS), the key player behind the Royal Malaysian Navy's littoral combat ship (LCS) project, has officially been renamed Lumut Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (Lunas). The announcement comes from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also serves as the Finance Minister. This strategic move aims to refresh the company's image under its new stewardship by the Minister of Finance Incorporated (MoF Inc).
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim outlined that the rebranding was triggered by a change in shareholding, transitioning from the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT), Boustead Holdings Berhad (BHB), and Boustead Heavy Industries Corporation Bhd (BHIC) to MoF Inc. He highlighted that this new identity would not only foster a positive image but also rejuvenate the spirit of Lunas's workforce.
"The rebranding signifies our commitment to the nation's defense agenda, particularly the LCS construction project, assuring stakeholders of our dedication to excellence," stated Anwar in a written response on the Parliament's website. The move is part of a broader effort to reshape public perception and reassure both local and international vendors of Lunas's forward-thinking and progressive nature.
Further details were provided regarding the shareholding transition. On January 2, an agreement to extend the sale of a 20.77% stake in BNS from BHIC to a MoF Inc entity for a nominal sum was announced. This extension, marking the fourth of its kind, aims to facilitate the completion of the LCS project by allowing the government to acquire full ownership of BNS.
Boustead Heavy Industries Corp Bhd (BHIC) reported a prolongation of the share sale agreement with MoF Inc’s Ocean Sunshine Bhd (OSB), citing the need for additional time to meet the deal's conditions. This strategic sale is part of the government's decision to ensure the LCS project's successful completion by acquiring all BNS shares.
Post-rebranding, the newly named Lumut Naval Shipyard continues its critical role in the defense sector, focusing on the construction, repair, and maintenance of naval vessels. Despite facing financial challenges in the previous year, with a reported post-tax loss of RM150.12 million and net liabilities of RM848.45 million, the rebranding marks a hopeful new chapter for the company.
-- ASIA NEWS CHANNELS