KUALA LUMPUR (May 15): Westports Holdings Bhd (KL:WPRTS) reported a 47% jump in net profit to RM326.5 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, supported by stronger container revenue.

Revenue rose 44% year-on-year to RM896.3 million. No dividend was declared for the quarter.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, however, the port operator flagged potential headwinds from the Middle East crisis, which has disrupted energy supply and pushed up fuel costs due to its reliance on unsubsidised diesel linked to Platts pricing. 

It warned that sustained high energy prices could fuel inflation, weaken global demand, and raise recession risks.

The group also noted that shipping lines are rerouting vessels and adjusting port calls to avoid the Strait of Hormuz, affecting container flows.

Despite these risks, Westports maintained its forecast of low single-digit container throughput growth for now, but said it may revise guidance if conditions worsen or volumes soften.

Westports’ share price was up 2.29% to RM5.80 at the midday break on Friday, valuing the group at RM19.9 billion.