PETALING JAYA: Packaging manufacturer and property developer Scientex Bhd recorded a 9.1% increase in net profit to RM135.2 million for the second quarter ended Jan 31, 2026 (Q2’26) from RM123.9 million in the previous year’s corresponding quarter, driven by higher packaging sales volume and operational efficiency, as well as increased contributions from the property development division.

The growth in the bottom line was bolstered by a 2.8% rise in group revenue to RM1.14 billion, up from RM1.11 billion a year ago.

In the packaging division, operating profit grew 16.3% to RM49 million from RM42.1 million a year ago, attributed to improved sales volume, enhanced operational efficiency, and optimised cost structures. Segment revenue remained resilient at RM622.2 million compared to RM630.7 million previously, with the marginal decrease mainly due to the depreciation of the US dollar against the ringgit.

The property division saw revenue increase 8.3% to RM513.6 million from RM474.4 million previously, while operating profit rose 7.9% to RM143.6 million from RM133.1 million a year ago, supported by steady revenue recognition from ongoing projects and encouraging sales from new launches. The maiden phase of the Scientex Jawi township (Penang) is nearing full take-up, while the newly launched Scientex Pulai 4 township (Johor) garnered a positive market response.

CEO Lim Peng Jin said, “Amid an increasingly volatile and challenging operating environment, including geopolitical uncertainties that impact supply chains and energy prices, we are working closely with our customers to navigate these challenges. At the same time, we are driving innovation and investing in our packaging capabilities, including strategic additions such as our second Nano 67-layer cast line and new machinery across multiple plants. These initiatives support our ongoing efforts to optimise cost structures and enhance operational efficiency as we navigate evolving market conditions.”

Meanwhile, the property division remains steadfast in maintaining steady construction momentum to meet the resilient demand for affordable housing, supported by a stable financing environment that continues to support homeownership.

“We have completed over 44,000 homes to date, approaching 90% of our Vision 2028 target, and remain firmly on track to deliver 50,000 affordable homes nationwide,” Lim said.

For the six-month period ended Jan 31, 2026 (H1’26), the group recorded 3.5% higher revenue of RM2.29 billion, compared to RM2.21 billion previously. Net profit rose 10.1% to RM278.1 million in H1’26, from RM252.6 million in the previous year’s corresponding period.

Packaging revenue in H1’26 was stable at RM1.26 billion, while operating profit jumped 32.3% to RM96.7 million from RM73.1 million previously on enhanced efficiency and favourable sales mix. The division continues to drive talent development and digitalisation, alongside cost management initiatives to sustain its competitive edge and strengthen its resilience and global presence.

Property revenue for the six months reached RM1.04 billion, while operating profit rose 7.6% to RM300.3 million compared to RM279 million previously. Moving forward, the division will continue to roll out new phases in line with market demand across its presence in the Northern, Central and Southern regions, with RM890 million in gross development value already launched in H1’26.