Kuala lumpur: DRB-HICOM Bhd's net profit more than doubled to RM45 million in the first quarter ended March 31, 2026 (1Q) from RM17.72 million in the same period last year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, in a statement with Bursa Malaysia today, DRB-HICOM said the improvement was mainly attributable to stronger profitability from Proton Holdings Bhd and Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd. It said a narrower loss at Pos Malaysia Bhd also supported the performance, reflecting stronger sales, improved cost efficiency, and continued cost discipline.

However, the conglomerate said earnings for the quarter were partially offset by lower contributions from the services and property segments. In 1Q of its financial year ending December 31, 2026 (FY2026), DRB-HICOM saw its revenue improve to RM4.76 billion from RM4.11 billion in the corresponding quarter last year, underpinned by stronger contributions from the mobility, banking, and postal segments.

On Proton's performance, DRB-HICOM said the national car manufacturer demonstrated strong momentum in 1Q FY2026 with sales rising 40.1 percent year-on-year to 49,140 units. 'It remains well positioned to sustain its growth trajectory, supported by its expanding electric vehicle segment,' it said.

In the banking segment, the group said it continues to strengthen its position in Islamic finance and advance its digital expansion initiatives. For the postal segment, it said Pos Malaysia remains focused on reducing losses through its transformation plan, supported by network rationalisation, digital channel expansion, and prudent management of its cost base and revenue mix.

Moving forward, DRB-HICOM anticipates a moderate outlook for FY2026 amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.