KUALA LUMPUR: Nestle (M) Bhd
, which posted a 27.1% jump in net profit for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026 (1Q26), remains confident in its fundamentals despite a more volatile operating environment.
“While the external environment in 2026 is defined by volatility and increased uncertainty, we are confident in the strength of our fundamentals and our ability to ensure continuity in this context,” chief executive officer Juan Aranols said in a statement.
“Our diversified portfolio of trusted brands, extensive local manufacturing footprint and broad distribution network, in combination with our downstream supply chain capabilities, continue to provide a solid foundation to navigate this environment and deliver another year of resilient commercial and financial results,” he said.
Aranols said the group will continue to focus on keeping its brands relevant and accessible, executing consistently across all channels, and managing costs with discipline.
“This approach allows us to maintain continuity in performance while positioning Nestlé Malaysia for further sustainable, long-term growth,” he added.
In 1Q26, Nestle posted a net profit of RM205.1mil, or earnings per share of 87.47 sen, compared with RM161.3mil, or 68.80 sen, a year earlier.
The higher profit was driven by solid topline growth, disciplined cost management and ongoing operational efficiencies across the value chain.
These actions have enabled the group to mitigate external cost pressures while maintaining flexibility to continue investing prudently in its brands, capabilities and long-term growth
Revenue rose to RM1.9bil from RM1.77bil in the corresponding quarter, driven by resilient domestic demand, particularly during the festive period, as well as continued contributions from export markets.
The performance reflects the strength of the group’s diversified portfolio and the sustained relevance of its brands across consumer segments and consumption occasions.
Aranols said the group has delivered a solid start to the year, underpinned by resilient operations and strong household brands.
“In an environment marked by heightened global uncertainty, our focus remains on ensuring full continuity in our operations, contributing to the nation’s food security, and building on the strength and reach of our broader value chain ecosystem, in strong partnership with our suppliers, distributors and customers,” he said.
“Through a long-standing presence in Malaysia that dates back to 1912, and the largest industrial presence in the food and beverage space, we remain focused on providing the widest range of Halal certified products, made in Malaysia by Malaysians for Malaysians, sold under trusted brands.”
