KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 23): Media Chinese International Ltd (KL:MEDIAC) on Monday (Feb 23) reported a lower third-quarter net loss, bolstered by a robust performance in its travel division that offset continued headwinds in its publishing business.

The group recorded a net loss of RM6.84 million in its third quarter ended Dec 31, 2025 (3QFY2026), down from RM8.96 million in the same period last year, as revenue rose 2.1% to RM156.7 million from RM153.44 million.

The group attributed the revenue growth primarily to its Hong Kong travel operations. "The growth was primarily driven by increased demand for tours operated by the segment's Hong Kong operation, including its signature CEO-led luxury trips," the group noted in a bourse filing on Monday.

Beyond the travel segment's contributions, Media Chinese highlighted that its cost-saving measures, particularly in paper costs, depreciation charges and bad debt provisions, helped cushion the bottom line.

Nevertheless, the group's performance for the cumulative nine-month period remains under pressure. Net loss expanded to RM29.41 million from RM16.76 million a year ago, as revenue slipped 1.9% to RM496.39 million from RM505.93 million.

Management cited "prolonged structural challenges facing the print media industry" as the primary driver behind its nine-month revenue dip.

The group, which is involved in publishing and printing, and travel and travel-related services, saw its share price close 5.3% lower at 9 sen on Monday, valuing it at RM145.94 million.