Bandar Seri Begawan, 2 February 2026 – Today represents an important milestone in the development of Brunei’s logistics industry as NEXT Bahtera Maritime Sdn Bhd (NBM), a newly established joint venture between the Strategic Development Capital Fund (SDC Fund) under the Investment Division, Ministry of Finance and Economy and Network Cross Trade Line Limited (NEXT), is pleased to announce the launch of its new regular direct shipping service connecting Brunei with major ports in China, South Korea, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This milestone marks a significant step forward in enhancing connectivity, delivering more efficient and reliable shipping solutions, while strengthening trade and business ties between Brunei and key markets in the region.
The event was officiated by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, and was also attended by Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary Bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications, Yang Mulia Dato Seri Paduka Haji Khairuddin bin Haji Abd Hamid, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Economy), as well as High Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Deputy Permanent Secretaries, senior government officials, key project partners, company directors and industry stakeholders.
During the event, the invited guests was introduced to NBM’s vessel, MV NXT Genesis, as well as the discharge of its cargo. Since 2024, the vessel has carried and delivered more than 800 units of cargo to Brunei and is expected to deliver more than 100 additional units this month. With the operation of its own vessel, NBM has the control over operational schedules, improves service reliability, and strengthens overall market competitiveness. The vessel is capable of transporting a diverse range of cargoes, including vehicles, heavy machinery, construction materials, furniture, electrical products, and various general goods. Also, By operating its own vessel, NBM gains greater flexibility in cargo handling and scheduling, enabling more responsive and efficient service. This also helps complement existing logistics partnerships by reducing over-reliance on external shipping networks, while maintaining strong cooperation within the broader supply chain.
NEXT is a subsidiary company of Eastern Car Liner Ltd. who has been present in the shipping industry for over 50 years. NEXT has successfully developed a specialized business segment focused on exports from China and South Korea to Southeast Asia. NEXT is also honoured to leverage its regional presence to support NBM and Brunei in building operational skills and shipping capabilities. Through this partnership, Brunei is now better positioned to expand its market access, enhance regional supply chain connectivity, and pursue new trade opportunities with improved operational resilience and reduced logistical risk, supporting Brunei’s long-term economic diversification efforts, and in alignment with Wawasan Brunei 2035.
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About NEXT Bahtera Maritime Sdn Bhd
NBM is a newly established joint venture between the Strategic Development Capital Fund (SDC Fund) under the Ministry of Finance and Economy and Network Cross Trade Line Limited (NEXT). It is a logistic and shipping solutions provider committed to enhancing regular trade connectivity and delivering reliable, efficient maritime services that support regional economic growth.
