Melaka Strengthens Its Position as a Regional Maritime Hub Through the RM1.8 Billion Enrique of Malacca Shipyard Project

The Melaka State Government continues to strengthen its position as a regional maritime hub following an official visit to Desan Shipyard in Istanbul, Türkiye, aimed at finalising strategic cooperation for the development of the Enrique of Malacca Shipyard Project, a modern shipyard valued at RM1.8 billion.

As an outcome of the visit, the Melaka State Government is scheduled to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on 8 January 2026 in Istanbul, marking a significant milestone towards the implementation of this high-impact strategic project, which will be developed within the Straits of Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone (SM-WEZ).

The Enrique of Malacca Shipyard Project will not only enhance Melaka’s maritime industrial capabilities but also revive the state’s historic maritime legacy on the international stage through global technology collaboration and expertise sharing. Strategically located along Melaka’s coastline, the project benefits from direct access to the Straits of Melaka, one of the world’s busiest international shipping lanes, positioning it as a competitive and attractive maritime investment.

Covering an area of 23.3 acres, the project will be developed through a joint venture between SM-WEZ Corporation, the lead agency for the special economic zone, and Henry The Black Shipyard Sdn. Bhd. as the project developer. The development also involves strategic collaboration with Türkiye’s leading maritime company, Desan Deniz, which brings 47 years of industry experience in shipbuilding and ship repair.

With a construction period of two years, the Enrique of Malacca Shipyard is expected to commence operations in 2028, serving as a key catalyst for the growth of the maritime industry in the Straits of Melaka and across Southeast Asia.

Key components of the project include:

• Shipbuilding and Ship Repair (SBSR);
• Marine Services;
• Fabrication Facilities; and
• Maritime Tourism Attractions.

This project reflects the Melaka State Government’s continued commitment to attracting high-quality investments, strengthening the maritime industrial ecosystem, and driving sustainable, long-term economic growth for the state.