KUALA LUMPUR: Orkim Bhd has taken delivery of its latest vessel, Orkim Garnet, as part of its fleet expansion and rejuvenation strategy.

The vessel chartering firm, in a statement, said Orkim Garnet, formerly known as Rich Sunda, is a 2026-built IMO Type II tanker with a deadweight capacity of 13,850 metric tonnes.

The acquisition expands Orkim’s fleet to 19 vessels with a total load capacity of 253,036 deadweight tonnes.

Designed to transport clean petroleum products and chemical products, the vessel is expected to commence its maiden charter voyage in the near term.

Chief executive officer Captain Cheah Sin Bi said the acquisition would allow the group to expand into chemical and palm oil transportation, enabling it to capture broader regional trade opportunities.

“Orkim Garnet enables us to expand into chemical and palm oil transportation, allowing the Group to capture broader regional trade opportunities.

“In addition, the acquisition supports our ongoing fleet rejuvenation efforts by lowering the Group’s average fleet age, which enhances overall fleet efficiency, reliability, and competitiveness,” he said….