Shell is preparing an SK437 3D seismic survey offshore Sarawak, Malaysia, with TGS expected to carry out the acquisition ahead of potential exploration drilling in the shallow-water block, according to Upstream.
The planned survey will provide additional subsurface data to evaluate exploration prospects within Block SK437, which is operated by Sarawak Shell Berhad under a production-sharing contract (PSC) with PETRONAS Carigali and Petroleum Sarawak Exploration and Production (PSEP).
Malaysia’s Marine Department issued Notice to Mariners NTM 154/2026(T) on 4 November 2026, covering a 3D streamer seismic survey over Block SK437 in Malaysian waters offshore Sarawak.
The notice followed NTM 135/2026(T), issued on 25 September, concerning a hazard scouting survey associated with the planned 3D seismic operations.
The notices confirm that marine survey activities have been formally notified, but do not establish whether the main seismic acquisition has commenced. The survey vessel, acquisition area and precise operational schedule have not been confirmed in the available official information.
Block SK437 is located southwest of the Central Luconia province offshore Sarawak. According to PETRONAS‘ official announcement, the block covers approximately 2,015 square kilometres in water depths of up to 50 metres.
The PSC was awarded on 28 July 2021 to Sarawak Shell Berhad, PETRONAS Carigali and PSEP. At the time, Sarawak Shell Berhad held an 85% operating interest, while PETRONAS Carigali and PSEP each held 7.5%.
The planned seismic acquisition represents a further exploration step for the block. However, no confirmed exploration drilling schedule or drilling rig assignment has been disclosed in the sources reviewed.
