PETALING JAYA: Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Bhd reported growth in revenue and net profit for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026 (Q1’26) versus the same quarter last year.
The group’s revenue grew by 6.5% to RM705.9 million, while net profit was up by 4.7% to RM98.9 million. The improved earnings were contributed by the longer selling period ahead of Chinese New Year in Malaysia and Singapore.
Malaysia operations delivered revenue growth of 9.6% and a 2.9% increase in profit from operations, driven by 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. Reported revenue, however, saw a decline due to the appreciation of the ringgit against the Singapore dollar.
Share of profits from the group’s Sri Lanka-based associate company Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC registered a 23% increase to RM8.3 million, versus RM6.8 million in Q1’25, reflecting improved underlying performance.
The group’s earnings per share for Q1’26 were 32.36 sen, compared to 30.91 sen in Q1’25.
The board of directors announced the first interim dividend of 24 sen per share for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026.
“We delivered a commendable first quarter on favourable Chinese New Year timing, despite heightened global uncertainty and subdued consumer spending. Anchored by our strategic priorities and disciplined execution, we remain resilient and agile in responding to evolving market dynamics across Malaysia and Singapore, while continuing to deliver value to consumers and stakeholders,” said Carlsberg Malaysia managing director Stefano Clini.
On prospects, the group said it 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,” Clini said.
