SGI Goes Global: Powering the Malaysia-Singapore Undersea Cable Project

Indonesia's technical prowess in maritime infrastructure is hitting a major milestone on the international stage. PT Sarana Global Indonesia (SGI), a leading firm in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) specifically for undersea cable deployment, has officially expanded its reach into the regional market. Through its subsidiary, PT Nostag Nusantara Mardika, SGI has been entrusted with a critical energy infrastructure project: the installation of a 10-kilometer submarine power cable connecting Senibong, Malaysia, to Senoko, Singapore.

This project represents a significant leap for SGI, transitioning from a domestic leader to a competitive regional player. The initiative, known as the TNB-SPPA Cable Installation Project at East Johor Strait Singapore Power, is a collaborative effort with G8 Subsea PTE LTD. The partnership was solidified through an agreement signed back in August 2019, and work is currently in full swing, with completion scheduled through 2020.

Proving Indonesian Expertise Abroad

Chandra Arie Setiawan, the President Director of SGI, expressed deep pride in the company's ability to secure such a high-stakes international contract. He emphasized that this project serves as a clear demonstration that Indonesian professionals are more than capable of handling complex undersea cable installations—whether for telecommunications (fiber optics) or high-voltage power—within the Southeast Asian region. For Chandra, the ultimate goal is not just to succeed abroad, but to ensure that Indonesian companies remain the masters of their own territory by showcasing world-class competency.

SGI’s track record is already well-established within Indonesia. The company played a pivotal role in the country’s National Strategic Projects, specifically the West Palapa Ring and East Palapa Ring projects, which were fundamental in bridging the digital divide across the archipelago. This experience has clearly provided the technical foundation needed to tackle the challenges of the Johor Strait.

Advanced Technology and Local Talent

One of the most striking aspects of this project is the blend of international technology and local manpower. The submarine power cables themselves are manufactured by LS Cable, a renowned specialist from South Korea. However, the execution on the water is driven by Indonesian assets. The primary vessel used for the installation is the Nostag 10 (N-10), a specialized cable barge owned by SGI.

Crucially, the majority of the crew operating the Nostag 10 are Indonesians. This highlights the company's commitment to empowering local talent while delivering results that meet international standards. Gerald Tan, Managing Director of G8 Subsea, noted that the presence of the Nostag-10 barge was a key factor in their confidence to move forward with the project. He praised SGI’s management and project teams for their professionalism, expressing a strong desire for continued collaboration in future ventures.

A Legacy of Strategic Infrastructure

Beyond this current venture in the Malaysia-Singapore corridor, SGI has been a silent architect behind several other major maritime operations. The company has previously supported PT Triasmitra Globalmarine Indonesia in underwater salvage operations and assisted PT Jala Nusantara Mardika in submarine cable maintenance and installation using the Pacific cable ship.

By successfully navigating the complexities of the TNB-SPPA project, SGI is not just laying down cable; it is laying the groundwork for Indonesia to be recognized as a hub for maritime engineering excellence in Southeast Asia. This project stands as a testament to what local firms can achieve when they combine specialized equipment like the N-10 with a vision for regional integration.