KUALA LUMPUR: A well-timed Chinese New Year helped to shore up Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Bhd
's earnings in the first quarter of 2026, despite the global uncertainty and subdued consumer spending.
In the first three months of the year, the brewer said net profit rose to RM98.94mil from RM94.52mil in the year-ago quarter. Earnings per share climbed to 32.36 sen from 30.91 sen previously.
Quarterly revenue jumped to RM705.95mil from RM662.81mil in the comparative quarter, as there was a longer selling period ahead of CNY this year in both Malaysia and Singapore.
The group declared a first interim dividend of 24 sen per share, with entitlement date on July 14, 2026, and payment on Aug 12, 2026.
According to Carlsberg, Malaysia operations experienced 9.6% growth in revenue and 2.9% increase in profit from operations due to the festive demand and effective market execution.
Singapore operations recorded a 3% increase in total revenue in local currency, resulting in higher profit from operations driven by lower operating spend.
An appreciation of the ringgit against the Singapore dollar, however, resulted in lower revenue for the segment.
Share of profits from the Group’s Sri Lankan-based associate company Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC (LBCP) registered a 23% increase to RM8.3mil, versus RM6.8mil in 1QFY25, reflecting improved underlying performance.
Managing director Stefano Clini said the group remains cautious amid geopolitical tensions, energy and input cost volatility, and broader macroeconomic uncertainty.
“Against this backdrop, our priorities for 2026 will centre on disciplined value management, cost optimisation and prudent resource allocation, while we continue to innovate and invest in our brands, brewery capabilities and digital transformation initiatives.
"In addition, we are proactively monitoring and managing any potential supply chain risk related to Middle East tensions to ensure operational continuity.
"Through consistent execution and financial discipline, we aim to strengthen resilience and reinforce our commitment to long-term sustainable value creation,” he said.
