KUALA LUMPUR (May 12): DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Bhd (KL:DKSH) saw a marginal 2.9% increase in its first-quarter net profit despite a record-high RM2.35 billion in sales, as rising operational costs and currency headwinds ate into its margins.

The specialised distribution group reported a net profit of RM49.56 million for its first quarter ended March 31, 2026 (1QFY2026), up from RM48.17 million in 1QFY2025, as revenue grew 6.1% to RM2.35 billion from RM2.22 billion.

According to its bourse filing on Tuesday, the revenue growth was driven by contribution from existing and newly secured clients across its consumer goods and healthcare segments, alongside higher retail outlet sales. Profit growth, however, was limited by supply chain improvement cost and unfavourable foreign exchange losses.

No dividends were declared for the quarter.

Looking ahead, DKSH said it remains focused on expanding existing businesses, optimising costs, maintaining strong working capital and adapting to market changes by monitoring the short-term outlook to navigate the prevailing environment.

Founded in 1923 in Penang, DKSH is one of Malaysia’s oldest and largest market expansion firms, specialising in distribution of consumer goods, healthcare, materials and technology for global brands. It also operates retail outlets selling Famous Amos cookies.

DKSH’s shares closed three sen higher at RM5.69 on Tuesday, giving it a market capitalisation of RM897.1 million.