Pacific International Lines (PIL) has marked the maiden call of its first LNG dual-fuel container vessel, Kota Elok, to Singapore on 15 July, with the 13,000-teu ship also receiving Lloyd's Register certification for compliance with new mandatory cyber-resilience requirements.

The vessel, built by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, is the first of 13 newbuilds of its class set to join PIL's fleet and is capable of operating on LNG and low-sulphur fuel oil. According to PIL, the ship incorporates energy-saving features, digital technologies and a bow windshield designed to improve aerodynamics and reduce fuel consumption on long-haul voyages.

During the Singapore call, PSA Singapore presented a commemorative plaque to Kota Elok's master, Capt. Kan Liang, on board the vessel.

The Lloyd's Register certification covers compliance with International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) unified requirements UR E26 and UR E27, which are mandatory cyber-resilience standards for newbuild vessels contracted from 1 July 2024. UR E26 addresses the cyber resilience of the vessel as a whole, while UR E27 focuses on ensuring that individual onboard systems and equipment incorporate cybersecurity protections from the point of design and construction.

PIL said the certification was achieved through collaboration between itself, Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, Lloyd's Register, specialist testing organisations and equipment suppliers.

Following her Singapore call, Kota Elok is scheduled to continue on PIL's East Coast Service 1 (ES1) route to South America, calling at ports in Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina before returning to Asia.