KLK 2Q Profit Falls To RM154 Million, Hit By Overseas Associate Losses, FX Impact
Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad (KLK) posted a lower net profit of RM154 million for its second quarter ended March 31, 2025 (2QFY25), down from RM220 million in the preceding quarter, despite a rise in group revenue to RM6.3 billion, compared to RM5.9 billion in 1QFY25.
On a year-on-year basis, KLK's 2Q pre-tax profit rose 15% to RM269.9 million from RM234.7 million in 2QFY24, supported by a 16.2% increase in revenue to RM6.34 billion.
Segmental Performance
Manufacturing
The group's manufacturing segment narrowed its loss to RM38.3 million, compared to RM53.4 million in 1QFY25. The improvement was largely driven by: Higher revenue of RM5.42 billion (1QFY25: RM4.76 billion),
Stronger profit contribution from the Oleochemical division, and
A smaller loss from its non-oleochemical operations.
However, the segment continued to be weighed down by losses in its refinery and kernel crushing operations.
Property Development
The property segment saw its profit slump 53.4% to RM3.5 million, from RM7.5 million in 1QFY25, on lower revenue of RM39.7 million (1QFY25: RM44.1 million), reflecting a slower property market.
Investment Holding/Others
This segment posted a larger loss of RM94.8 million, widening from RM58.1 million in the previous quarter. The decline came despite a stronger farming profit of RM34.6 million (1QFY25: RM186,000), as the group absorbed a RM63.3 million equity loss from its UK-listed associate Synthomer plc, which continues to face performance headwinds.
Net corporate expenses increased to RM54.8 million (1QFY25: RM50.6 million), mainly due to a larger foreign exchange loss of RM40 million from the translation of intercompany loans denominated in foreign currencies. This was partly offset by a RM3.9 million gain from land sales and government acquisitions.
Despite challenges in its manufacturing and investment holding arms, KLK remains supported by steady revenue growth and contributions from its oleochemical business. However, the group's near-term profitability may remain volatile due to external pressures, particularly from its overseas associate performance and currency fluctuations Related
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