PETRONAS, Malaysia’s national oil and gas company, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful departure of its first liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo from the newly commissioned LNG Canada facility located in Kitimat, British Columbia.
The cargo, carried aboard the 174,000-cubic metre LNG vessel Puteri Sejinjang, is en route to Japan, showing PETRONAS’ inaugural export of Canadian LNG to the Asia Pacific region.
This event is a key moment in PETRONAS’ long-term strategy to expand and diversify its global LNG supply portfolio. The departure of this cargo from LNG Canada not only represents the operational readiness of the facility but also reaffirms PETRONAS’ commitment to strengthening energy security through reliable and responsible LNG supply.
As a partner holding a 25% stake in LNG Canada through its wholly owned subsidiary North Montney LNG Limited Partnership, PETRONAS has played a crucial role in the development of this landmark project, which is Canada’s first large-scale LNG export terminal on the west coast.
According to Executive Vice President and CEO of PETRONAS’ Gas and Maritime Business, Datuk Adif Zulkifli, the first LNG shipment is the result of years of effort and collaboration. He noted that the project exemplifies PETRONAS’ vision to deliver Canadian LNG to Asia, and expressed gratitude to the joint venture partners, the Haisla Nation, the Kitimat community, and all Canadians involved. He emphasized that PETRONAS is proud to contribute to this project, which is not only a first for Canada but a major step forward in delivering low-carbon energy globally.
LNG Canada is designed to be among the most environmentally efficient LNG export facilities in the world.
It features advanced energy-saving gas turbines, state-of-the-art methane leak detection and control systems, and draws electricity from BC Hydro’s grid, which is predominantly powered by renewable hydroelectric energy.
These design elements have enabled LNG Canada to achieve a greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity that is approximately 35% lower than the best-performing LNG plants globally, and about 60 percent below the global average.
The facility’s strong environmental credentials align with PETRONAS’ broader sustainability goals, which focus on delivering cleaner energy while minimizing carbon emissions.
Strategically located on Canada’s Pacific coast, LNG Canada offers PETRONAS direct access to key North Asian markets such as Japan, South Korea, and China.
This short shipping route enhances efficiency, reduces transport emissions, and strengthens PETRONAS’ ability to respond swiftly to market demands. Coupled with PETRONAS’ existing upstream gas assets in Northeast British Columbia, the facility provides seamless integration across the LNG value chain, from production to liquefaction and export.
With more than four decades of experience in LNG, PETRONAS brings proven operational expertise and a deep understanding of market dynamics. This latest development enhances the company’s position as a trusted LNG supplier and demonstrates its capability to meet growing energy demand with dependable and responsibly sourced LNG. It also reflects PETRONAS’ broader commitment to future-proofing its supply chain through global partnerships and investments in low-carbon infrastructure.
The successful launch of operations at LNG Canada and the first shipment to Japan underscore the increasing importance of international collaboration in ensuring secure and sustainable energy supplies.
As global energy needs continue to evolve, PETRONAS remains focused on expanding its reach, enhancing supply security, and contributing to the transition toward a lower-carbon future. The first cargo from LNG Canada is a tangible demonstration of this commitment and a significant step in strengthening the company’s role as a global LNG leader.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.
