Cyberjaya, Selangor – Following the successful life-extension project on the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) corvette KD Laksamana Muhammad Amin (KDLMA), MTC has been entrusted with another high-profile engineering endeavor: the refit and reconstruction of the RMN’s patrol vessel KD Baung. The project underscores MTC’s growing reputation as a local leader in naval vessel modernization and design innovation.
MTC will spearhead the engineering design and re-engineering of KD Baung, focusing on structural, mechanical, piping, electrical, and outfitting systems. The firm will also redesign crew accommodations to improve onboard comfort and functionality. While the hull reconstruction follows a similar “re-hull” concept applied to the KDLMA, the KD Baung will feature a completely redesigned general arrangement, prioritizing optimized space utilization and modern living quarters for crew members.
According to a representative from MTC, the project highlights the Royal Malaysian Navy’s trust in MTC’s ability to provide practical solutions that balance technical requirements with crew needs. The company aims to support the vessel’s continued operations while improving mission readiness and crew welfare.
MTC has already completed the basic design and production drawings for the hull and is now providing ongoing engineering support to fabrication contractors to ensure timely delivery. The team is concurrently advancing outfitting packages, which include upgraded electrical systems and machinery layouts tailored to modern naval standards.
The KD Baung holds a storied place in Malaysia’s maritime history. Built in October 1976 by the Malaysia-German joint venture Hong Leong-Lurssen Shipyard in Butterworth, Penang, the vessel represents an early milestone in Malaysia’s domestic shipbuilding capabilities. Its refurbishment symbolizes a bridge between the nation’s industrial heritage and its future as a regional naval power.
The key upgrades aim to address longstanding feedback from naval personnel about onboard living conditions, aligning with RMN’s broader efforts to modernize its fleet.
At the same time, by extending the service life of existing ships through advanced engineering, Malaysia aims to bolster its maritime defense capabilities while optimizing costs.
MTC’s dual success with the KDLMA and KD Baung projects positions the firm as a critical partner in Malaysia’s naval modernization agenda. As fabrication progresses, all eyes are on the shipyard, where history and innovation converge to shape the future of the nation’s defense.
