September 28 - Tiong Woon Corporation subsidiary, Tiong Woon Oil & Gas Services Pte Ltd, has successfully completed its portions for the construction of a 146.3 metre derrick pipelay barge for the owner and operator, NorCE Offshore Pte Ltd (NorCE), at its

The USD64.8 million contract was signed with NorCE in August 2007. Under the contract, Tiong Woon was primarily responsible for building the hull and major sections of the vessel as well as installing the owner's equipment.

Ang Kah Hong, Tiong Woon's Group chairman and managing director, said the yard's maiden project was indeed a significant achievement. "I am very proud that we have largely been able to meet all major milestones. The vessel is built to exacting specifications and showcases our execution excellence and technical expertise. The contract is a strategic one for our Bintan Yard as it would open for Tiong Woon considerable opportunities in large shipbuilding and repair projects. At the same time, it has also helped us to build a track record in this highly specialised area."

TWC is an integrated services provider for the Oil & Gas and Petrochemicals industries and specialises in heavy lift and installation of process equipment.

Tiong Woon's Bintan Fabrication Yard was acquired in November 2006 to shore up its current fleet of heavy lift equipment, tugs and barges, and eventually, to grow a new income stream from fabrication and engineering projects. The yard can be used for the fabrication of platforms for oil rigs, jackets and modules as well as for building of vessels and barges.

The Group manages turnkey projects for EPC Contractors and project owners from planning and design of heavy lifting and haulage requirements to the execution stage in which the heavy equipments are transported, lifted and installed at customers' facilities.