Ekuiti Nasional Bhd is in talks to acquire Perisai Pacific 101 (L) Inc. — a jack-up drilling rig wholly owned by ailing oil and gas player Perisai Petroleum Teknologi Bhd, sources familiar with the matter tell The Edge. It is understood that the talks have been going on for some time but whether a deal will be struck remains to be seen. In an emailed response to questions from The Edge, Ekuinas says it does not comment on speculation of investment opportunities, but the private equity fund notes that it is always open to considering sound investments that fulfil its investment criteria. "Any further announcements will be made in accordance with our disclosure policy," says Ekuinas. Attempts to contact Perisai's Managing Director Datuk Zainol Izzet Mohamed Ishak proved futile.