The NEXT Bahtera Maritime Sendirian Berhad is set to enhance Brunei Darussalam's role as a hub for maritime connectivity within the BIMP-EAGA sub-region and the wider ASEAN community. Speaking at the launching of NEXT Bahtera Maritime Sendirian Berhad on 2nd February morning at Muara Port, the Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Finance and Economy said the new connection follows the recent maiden calls by Shandong International Transportation Corporation (SITC) and Warisan Shipping Line last month. Said developments, according to Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, transform Muara Port from a destination into a regional hub for transhipment. Yang Berhormat added that since 2024, the company had successfully delivered hundreds of cargo, represent the tangible movement of trade and the strengthening of the nation's economic foundations.

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. Also present was Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications.