Hosted by Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) on 27 May 2024 until 30 May 2024
From May 27th to May 30th, 2024, the SEELOS delegation undertook an insightful visit to the Netherlands to explore cutting-edge offshore decommissioning practices and strengthen industry-academia collaboration. Coordinated by Mr. Thor Sterker of PB Consultant, the delegation—led by Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)—engaged in strategic meetings and site visits to some of the country’s leading decommissioning companies and institutions.
The delegation connected with industry leaders and governmental bodies, gaining exposure to advanced technologies and methodologies. Key stops included Heerema Marine Contractors, HEBO Maritime Service, DDM International, Nextstep, SAGRO Dismantling Yard, and the Nuclear Research Group (NRG). Discussions centered on knowledge transfer, collaborative opportunities, and potential projects to advance sustainable decommissioning in Southeast Asia.
Strategic Engagement Highlights
Heerema Marine Contractors
Heerema Marine Contractors, a leader in offshore construction and decommissioning, welcomed the Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) team alongside Mr. Thor Sterkers. The visit highlighted Heerema’s 60-year legacy in transporting, installing, and removing offshore facilities for the oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors. Insights into the company’s experience, including the removal of 606,000 metric tons of offshore structures, were shared, followed by a tour of their simulation center. This facility replicates real-time offshore environments to assess project risks comprehensively. Discussions also covered the Southeast Asia decommissioning landscape, internship opportunities, and the SEELOS project led by Ap. Ts. Dr. Noor Amila.
HEBO Maritime Service
HEBO Maritime Service showcased its capabilities in heavy lifting, salvage, and transportation during a meeting with the UTP team. Mr. Niels Van Der Breggen, HEBO’s commercial manager, provided a detailed overview of their services, which range from underwater construction to emergency response. The visit concluded with a boat tour at a nearby port, demonstrating the company’s ongoing operations and commitment to innovation and safety in maritime activities. SEELOS project updates and regional decommissioning challenges were also presented by Dr. Noor Amila.
Malaysian Embassy in the Netherlands
The UTP team met with Ms. Wan Maisarah Mohamed Idrus, First Secretary of the Malaysian Embassy in the Netherlands, to discuss potential decommissioning opportunities. Key topics included the progress of the SEELOS project, Southeast Asia’s decommissioning needs, and possibilities for student internships in the Netherlands.
DDM International B.V.
A brief meeting with Mr. Jacques Fontaine from DDM International B.V. highlighted the company’s expertise in dismantling, relocation, demolition, and asbestos removal. Operating since 1990, DDM has become a market leader in recycling scrap and debris while trading industrial equipment. The discussion focused on the company’s global projects and innovative practices, aligning with SEELOS objectives and fostering potential collaborations.
SAGRO Dismantling Yard
SAGRO Dismantling Yard hosted the UTP team at its Vlissingen facility, showcasing its expertise in offshore decommissioning, hazardous substance removal, and waste management. Mr. Abco Liek, SAGRO’s manager, provided a comprehensive overview of the company’s capabilities. A tour of their dismantling yard demonstrated cutting-edge equipment and ongoing projects, including platform jacket removal. The visit emphasized SAGRO’s commitment to sustainability and talent development through internship opportunities, as well as SEELOS project discussions led by Dr. Noor Amila.
Nextstep
Nextstep, a national platform for reuse and decommissioning, highlighted its role in promoting collaboration and transparency in the Dutch oil and gas sector. Representatives explained their mission to optimize decommissioning processes by fostering equipment reuse and minimizing environmental impact. The platform’s innovative approaches and collaborative model resonated with SEELOS project goals, connecting regional decommissioning practices to global efforts.
Nuclear Research Group (NRG)
At NRG, the UTP team explored the group’s expertise in nuclear research and radioactive waste management. NRG’s contributions to medical isotope production and offshore radioactive material decontamination were showcased during the visit. Advanced laboratory tours provided a deeper understanding of their pioneering methods. The discussion included updates on Southeast Asia’s hazardous waste management and SEELOS project objectives, further strengthening international cooperation.
These engagements reinforced cross-industry collaborations and showcased innovative practices for safe and sustainable decommissioning and environmental stewardship. The visits emphasized the importance of global partnerships in addressing decommissioning challenges and advancing sustainable practices.
Partners involved:
- Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (Malaysia)
Posted by Nurul Anis Kamarudin