BCorp narrows 1Q26 net loss to RM10.9mil as key segments improve

KUALA LUMPUR: Berjaya Corp Bhd (BCorp) reported improved results for the first quarter ended Sept 30 (1Q26), with its net loss narrowing to RM10.9mil from RM167.8mil a year earlier.

The group posted a pre-tax profit of RM37.55mil, reversing a pre-tax loss of RM101.58mil in the same quarter last year.

Quarterly revenue rose to RM2.31bil from RM2.23bil previously, while loss per share narrowed to 0.19 sen compared with 2.87 sen a year ago.

The conglomerate said the improved performance was driven mainly by its retail (non-food), retail (food), property and hospitality segments.

BCorp said its retail (non-food) division recorded higher revenue, supported by stronger vehicle sales and deliveries at H.R. Owen, which offset lower contributions from Cosway following ongoing store rationalisation.

H.R. Owen also reported a narrower pre-tax loss on higher revenue, while Cosway’s performance improved due to better margins and lower operating expenses.

BCorp noted that the retail (food) segment saw a slight increase in revenue, lifted by contributions from newer overseas operations and positive same-store sales growth at Starbucks Malaysia.

The segment’s pre-tax loss more than halved following cost-saving measures, reduced depreciation and store optimisation.

In the property division, BCorp said higher progress billings from Residensi Oak in Bukit Jalil, Pangsapuri Azalea in Subang Heights and improved unit sales contributed to higher revenue and a return to profitability during the quarter.

The hospitality segment also delivered stronger revenue and pre-tax profit, supported by higher occupancy rates and better room yields.

Meanwhile, the services segment recorded lower revenue on reduced contributions from the telecommunications network services business.

This was partly offset by higher sales at STM Lottery Sdn Bhd, driven by elevated Lotto jackpot prizes. However, the segment recorded a lower pre-tax profit due to increased prize payouts.

Looking ahead, BCorp said domestic demand, improving tourism activity and steady growth in its number forecast operator business are expected to support performance, despite external risks such as geopolitical tensions and global inflation.

“The directors are cautiously optimistic that the performance of the business operations of the group for the remaining quarters of the financial year ending June 30, 2026 will be satisfactory.”