The company will carry out feasibility study to define the configuration of the complex, develop infrastructure requirements and establish a project implementation plan. It will also produce a cost estimate to help establish a clear plan to take the project forward.

Work under the contract is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The contract is in line with SKS’s effort to increase investment into the Malaysian economy, and strengthen the region as a major supplier of refinery and petrochemical products to South East Asia.

Amec Foster Wheeler Asia, Middle East, Africa & Southern Europe president Roberto Penno said: "I am delighted that a combination of our local team in Kuala Lumpur supported by our refinery Centre of Excellence in Reading, is delivering a major feasibility study for this exciting, world-scale petrochemical project in Malaysia."