Last updated on August 23, 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, 20 August 2025 – Straits Energy Resources Berhad (海峡能源有限公司) (“Straits” or “the Company”), a Bursa Malaysia-listed entity, announced today that its indirect subsidiary, Straits CommNet Solutions Sdn Bhd (“Straits CommNet Solutions” or “SCS”), has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) with Horizon Shipyard Inter Globe (M) Sdn Bhd (“Horizon Shipyard” or “Horizon”), a 20%-owned indirect associate of Straits, to jointly design, develop and implement a Smart Shipyard at Horizon’s facilities.
The Smart Shipyard initiative will integrate solar power systems, AI-driven security surveillance, drone-enabled monitoring, predictive AI analytics, and digital platforms such as ERP and CRM software into Horizon’s operations. These technologies aim to create a connected, data-driven yard environment that enhances operational visibility, efficiency, and energy optimisation. Drone and AI monitoring are expected to automate visual inspections, improve anomaly detection, and streamline resource allocation—driving productivity, safety, and cost efficiency.
Under the MoU, Straits CommNet Solutions will serve as the designated solutions and equipment provider, bringing its expertise in digital transformation to complement Horizon Shipyard’s shipbuilding and repair capabilities.
Leadership Commentary
Sunny Ho Khin Choy, Chief Executive Officer of Straits CommNet Solutions, said:
“We are delighted to embark on this partnership with Horizon Shipyard, a prominent Malaysian shipyard operator specialising in shipbuilding, repair, and maritime services. This collaboration underscores our strength in digital transformation, enabling Horizon to modernise its infrastructure, enhance efficiency, and unlock growth opportunities as Malaysia positions itself as Asia’s emerging hub for shipbuilding and ship repair.
With industry investments rising significantly—from RM65.8 million in 2021 to RM363 million in 2022—the Smart Shipyard project reflects a timely opportunity for us to expand our footprint in delivering next-generation transformation solutions to the maritime sector. At the Group level, this initiative also aligns with Straits’ strategy to diversify and scale its telecommunications and digital solutions businesses as core growth drivers.”
Dato’ Mark Kuang Chia Chun, Chief Executive Officer of Horizon Shipyard, added:
“At Horizon Shipyard, we believe digitalisation will be a game-changer for the maritime industry. By automating processes and integrating drone and AI technologies, we aim to enhance yard agility, improve project precision, and boost productivity, while ensuring the safety of our workforce. Partnering with Straits CommNet Solutions gives us the expertise needed to pioneer one of Malaysia’s first Smart Shipyards, setting a new benchmark for the nation’s shipbuilding sector.”
About Straits CommNet Solutions
Straits CommNet Solutions is a 70%-owned subsidiary of Straits Technology Solutions Sdn Bhd, which in turn is 75%-owned by Straits. The company specialises in digital transformation solutions, including Internet of Things (IoT), cloud services, automation, AI, smart technologies, and telecommunications infrastructure. It is also actively involved in the deployment of 4G and 5G networks across industries.
