The ship-to-ship (STS) transfer hub project that has become a point of contention between Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim and the federal government is located beyond Johor waters, its developer reportedly said.

KA Petra Sdn Bhd chairperson Shahrul Amirul said the hub will be located more than 3.5 nautical miles away from the shore, which would be under the federal government’s jurisdiction.

“The STS’ operations there… come under the jurisdiction of the federal government, and the governing authority of that area is the Marine Department,” The Edge quoted him as saying yesterday.

KA Petra has a 70 percent stake in the project, whereas Hutchison Port Holdings Ltd holds the remaining 30 percent.

The project is said to cost between US$150 million and US$180 million (RM612 million and RM735 million). It is touted to be the world’s largest STS transfer hub, spanning 3,000 acres (1,214.1 hectares).

Tunku Ismail had accused Putrajaya of failing to inform the Johor government about the project, and alleged that the deal was done in a secretive manner.

Johor Menteri Besar Osman Sapian had also pleaded ignorance about the project, and the crown prince said his father was also in the dark.

“Putrajaya has acted unconstitutionally twice,” Tunku Ismail added.

“Firstly, with regard to the STS project in Johor waters. Tuanku Sultan Johor and I are not aware of the project. The menteri besar was also not aware (about the project), based on the attached voice recording.

“The state government, including the Land and Mines Office, is also unaware...”

He also stressed that anything within three nautical miles off the shores of Johor - in particular, matters pertaining to land and water - is the sole prerogative of the state.

“Is Putrajaya trying to usurp the powers of the state?” he asked.