Detection and Delineation of Shallow Channel Morphology Using 3D Seismic Data in the K Field, Malay Basin, Malaysia

Abstract

The Malay Basin early 2D seismic exploration programs were designed to test simple structural traps. Large relief folds are easily located and subsequently drilled. Many major oil and gas fields were discovered since the 1970s in middle-late Miocene siliciclastic reservoirs, and eventually produced successfully. However, these easy hydrocarbon accumulations in the Malay Basin are fast depleting due to its long production history. Hence, new petroleum plays are urgently needed to sustain the production. The utilization of high-resolution 3D seismic data in the early 2000’s has greatly increased the chance of drilling success, including high-risk prospects such as stratigraphic plays. This paper discusses the subtle channel morphology in the shallow section of the K Field. The 3D seismic data shows multiple-stacked channel geometry within the Pliocene (5.5-5.2 Ma) strata. The seismo-stratigraphic interpretation is aided by attributes analysis including horizon probe to detect and delineate the internal geometries. The results are correlated with modern analogues to predict the probable depositional elements within these fluvio-marine systems. These shallow channel features were previously avoided as hazardous drillings. Instead, until they are tested, these could be considered as good porosity clastic reservoirs filled by medium to heavy density oil.