Sunda advances drilling preparations in Timor-Leste, expands Philippines portfolio

Sunda Energy Plc is progressing preparations for the Chuditch-2 appraisal well offshore Timor-Leste, targeting a drilling start in early Q2 2026, while advancing new upstream ventures in Southeast Asia.

The company’s subsidiary, SundaGas Banda Unipessoal, Lda., has received expressions of interest from seven rig contractors covering 12 jack-up drilling rigs across the Asia-Pacific region. Several proposals have been shortlisted, and a Contract Strategy has been submitted to the Timor-Leste upstream regulator ANP for approval. Sunda Energy said it remains on track to finalize a rig contract before the end of 2025.

The company also reported progress on its Environmental Permitting process, which is expected to conclude in Q4 2025, and confirmed ongoing coordination with a Timor-Leste helicopter provider to support offshore logistics during drilling operations.

In parallel, SundaGas is in discussions with TIMOR GAP Chuditch Unipessoal Lda. regarding potential participation in funding the Chuditch-2 well, along with renewed talks with potential investors. CEO Andy Butler said the company is encouraged by the growing interest in Timor-Leste’s emerging energy sector.

In the Philippines, Sunda Energy is building its regional footprint following the award of non-operated interests in two Petroleum Service Contracts during the 1st Conventional Energy Bid Round of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. The licenses were awarded to a consortium comprising Triangle Energy (operator), Sunda Energy, PXP Energy Corporation, and The Philodrill Corporation.

Butler described 2025 as “a pivotal year” for Sunda Energy, citing momentum across its Timor-Leste and Philippine projects and the company’s efforts to expand its upstream portfolio across Southeast Asia.