BATAM, Energy solutions provider Wasco Bhd’s engineering and fabrication division expects to convert at least 15 per cent of its over US$1 billion (US$1=RM4.71) tender book into an order book.

Wasco was formerly known as Wah Seong Corporation Bhd.

The chief executive officer of its engineering and fabrication division, Shan Karupiah, said this would add to the company’s existing order book, which stood at over US$180 million.

‘The conversion rate (from tender book into order book), generally speaking, what we have seen is at least 15 per cent. That means one in every five or six jobs that we bid, we would win,’ he told Bernama at the celebration ceremony for the successful completion of the company’s 300th module here today.

Shan said Wasco’s venture into engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) for the oil and gas sector started in 2006 when the company acquired Gas Services International Pte Ltd in Singapore from Weatherford International Inc, laying the foundation for what Wasco would become.

He said that recognising the energy industry’s vast potential and the limitations faced in Singapore, primarily the lack of waterfront space and manpower restrictions, Wasco made a strategic decision to establish operations in Batam, Indonesia, by acquiring PT Megaron in 2009, a small Batam-based fabrication business.

‘Upon taking over PT Megaron and rebranding it into Wasco, we’ve grown exponentially from a modest 400 square metres (sqm) rented space in Batu Ampar to four hectares, then to 12 hectares, and now proudly standing on 33 hectares of advanced fabrication facilities, a testament to our growth and commitment.

‘This fantastic growth underscores our unwavering dedication to excellence and innovation,’ he said.

Shan said the company’s journey in Batam has been characterised by exceptional growth and community impact, expanding from 15 employees in 2009 to a current workforce of approximately 4,500 people, including more than 350 engineers and was ranked among the top 10 employers in Batam.

He said
Wasco’s Batam yard is the company’s largest fabrication yard and also boasts Wasco’s flagship Engineering Centre of Excellence, which serves as the company’s hub for engineering prowess, enabling us to meet diverse challenges and deliver exceptional projects worldwide.

‘From this strategic location, we not only cater to regional demands but also support our global operations.

‘From its humble beginnings as an EPC fabricator of gas compressors, today Wasco has transformed into a full-blown EPC powerhouse capable of designing and delivering projects for onshore and offshore, process plants, electrical and prefabricated buildings for both energy and non-energy industries, pre-assembled unit and pre-assembled rack modules and for the renewable energy sector,’ he added.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency