“The is the first step for UMW to own the Hakuryu III and I believe this will augur well for both parties in understanding one another," oil and gas division director Zulkifly Zakaria said.

"This strategic alliance and tie-up with JDC will further ensure the expansion of UMW's business especially in offshore drilling services.

“UMW has had many successful joint ventures and relationships with Japanese companies and I am confident that this will be another one especially with JDC’s more than 30 years of experience in offshore rig management.”