KUALA LUMPUR: Westports Holdings Bhd
is expecting overall container throughput to be about the same as in the previous year, as it anticipates a gradual recovery in energy supply to pre-crisis levels.
However, the port operator acknowledged the conditions are "fast-evolving", and would provide updated guidance if they should materially affect the volume outlook.
In its outlook for 2026, Westports said the intensity of the Middle East crisis has eased, and expects the lagged inflationary pressure accumulated over the last few months to ease.
"Growth momentum could thread a fine balance between the resumption of growth and stifled impetus due to higher prices, thereby still marginally affecting consumption propensity and governments’ fiscal positions.
"The regional transhipment volume could be influenced more by how shipping lines navigate this evolving landscape, as well as by regional supply chain and economic requirements," it said in its announcement to Bursa Malaysia.
In the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, Westports posted a net profit of RM360.9mil, a leap higher from RM231.63mil in the year-ago quarter. Earnings per share rose to 10.5 sen form 6.79 sen previously.
Quarterly revenue was RM866.89mil, up from RM691.06mil a year earlier due to a a tariff increase.
Over the six-month period, Westports' net profit rose to RM687.4mil from RM454.09mil in the same period in 2025.
Revenue in 1HFY27 climbed to RM1.76bil from RM1.31bil in the previous corresponding period due to the implementation of a tariff hike and
stronger value-added services (VAS) revenue.
The board of directors approved an interim dividend of 14.98 sen, consisting of an eletable portion of 2.99 sen per share, and a cash portion of 11.99 sen per share.
All or part of the electable portion of the dividend can be reinvested into new shares in the company in accordance with the dividend reinvestment plan approved at the company's May annual general meeting.
