Malaysian operator MISC Group has celebrated the naming of its latest new-generation LNG carrier, ‘Th’ailib’, at Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) in South Korea.
Th’ailib is the first of three newbuild LNG carriers secured by MISC under long-term time charter parties with QatarEnergy. Th’ailib will be chartered to QatarEnergy for a firm period of 15 years from 2026, marking another milestone in MISC’s LNG fleet rejuvenation and disciplined growth agenda.
The delivery of Th’ailib further strengthens MISC’s participation in QatarEnergy’s LNG fleet expansion programme. Following its Phase One participation through a consortium arrangement involving 12 LNG carriers, MISC has further secured three vessels under Phase Two. Collectively, the 15 vessels reinforce MISC’s role in supporting QatarEnergy’s long-term LNG transportation requirements.
Th’ailib represents the next generation of MISC’s LNG fleet, strengthening the group’s ability to serve customers reliably and efficiently. With a capacity of 174,000m3, Th’ailib is equipped with dual-fuel engines, a reliquefaction system, a high-performance anti-fouling hull coating and an air lubrication system designed to improve fuel efficiency, optimise energy use and support lower emissions intensity. The vessel is equipped with advanced navigation, safety and monitoring systems designed to support safe and efficient operations at sea. Designed and constructed in accordance with applicable IMO requirements and international maritime standards, the vessel strengthens MISC’s ability to deliver efficient and future-ready LNG transportation solutions to customers worldwide.
The vessel advances MISC’s Delivering Progress strategy under its Resilient Core pillar, which focuses on strengthening the group’s foundation through disciplined growth, fleet modernisation and investment in modern, eco-efficient assets.
Datuk Zahid Osman, MISC President and Group CEO, said: “LNG will continue to play a critical role in meeting the world’s growing need for affordable energy while supporting the broader transition towards lower-emission energy systems, with Qatar remaining a major supplier to markets around the world. Against this backdrop, MISC is privileged to support QatarEnergy’s ambitions and remains focused on delivering the performance that will sustain this partnership well into the future. As the first of three newbuild LNG carriers secured by MISC under our long-term time charter agreement with QatarEnergy, she reflects the strength we have built over decades as an LNG shipowner and the confidence placed in our ability to own and operate sophisticated maritime assets safely, reliably and efficiently.”
The name Th’ailib is derived from Jabal Thuaileb, located in Qatar’s Fox Hills district, drawing inspiration from Qatar’s distinctive geography and heritage. Derived from the Arabic word for ‘fox’ the name establishes a meaningful connection between the vessel and the nation whose energy ambitions she will support.
With Th’ailib now entering service, and two additional vessels scheduled for delivery, MISC Group says it will continue to support QatarEnergy’s long-term LNG transportation requirements while strengthening its contribution to safe, efficient and lower-emission maritime operations.
Image: LNG Carrier ‘Th’ailib’ (source: MISC Group)
