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Top 24 Largest Companies in Malaysia (2023 data)

By Hira Nisar Last updated November 22, 2023

For savvy investors and budding entrepreneurs, understanding the heartbeat of a nation’s economy is key. Finding the right investment opportunities can be a difficult task. Also, one critical aspect of decision-making is understanding which companies are making waves. We will discuss the top companies in Malaysia and their current performance and future forecasts. This article is your ticket to financial insight and smart investment choices.

According to the report, the eCommerce market in Malaysia is booming, especially in Asia. In 2021, it grew by a whopping 68% compared to the previous year, reaching an impressive $9.2 billion in sales. Experts estimate that by 2025, the Malaysian internet economy could skyrocket to $35 billion based on gross merchandise value (GMV). These numbers highlight the vast opportunities available in the Malaysian market, making it an exciting prospect for businesses and investors alike.

Our experts have carefully analysed and evaluated the data, so you can rely on this valuable resource to make informed investment decisions. Additionally, explore the best trading platforms in Malaysia, ensuring you have the right tools at your disposal. Learn the basics of analysing a company’s financial health, a skill every investor should have. Don’t miss out—your prosperous future awaits. Let’s get started.

 

Top Listed Companies in Malaysia

Name Sector Stock Symbol Market Cap Ranking Compared to 2022
Maybank Banking MLYBY 108.30 billion MYR ↑↓
Tenaga Nasional Utilities TNABY 57.58 billion MYR
MOG Holdings Ltd Healthcare 1942 3.56 billion HKD
YTL Corp Berhad Utilities 1773 16.09 billion MYR Unchanged
Nestle (M) Berhad Food and Beverages MAXIS [6012] 28.91 billion MYR
Sime Darby Plantation Berhad Plantation SIMEPLT 29.05 billion MYR
IOI Corporation Berhad Plantation IOICORP 24.51 billion MYR
RHB Bank Berhad Banking RHBBANK 23.746B Unchanged
KLK Berhad Plantation KLK 23.26 billion MYR
Axiata Group Berhad Telecommunication AXIATA 21.85 billion MYR
Petronas Dagangan Retail of liquefied petroleum gas PETDAG 22.53 billion MYR Unchanged
PPB Group Food production 1295.KL 20.66 billion MYR Unchanged
PChem (Petronas Chemicals Group) Chemicals 5183.KL 59.84 billion MYR Unchanged
CIMB Group Financial services 1023.KL 59.83 billion MYR Unchanged
IHH Healthcare Healthcare Q0F.SI 52.40 billion MYR
PMetal (Press Metal Aluminium) Metal and Mining 8869.KL 40.54 billion MYR Unchanged
MISC Berhad Shipping and Logistics 3816.KL 31.92 billion MYR
Petronas Gas Berhad Gas Utility PETGAS 34.03 billion MYR
Hong Leong Bank Berhad Banking HLBANK 42.14 billion MYR
Top Glove Corp Bhd. Healthcare BVA 6.03 billion MYR Unchanged
Silverlake Axis Ltd Technology 8S5 741.53 million SGD
United Overseas Australia Limited Real Estate UOS 289.64 million

AUD

JB Foods Ltd Consumer Staples BEW 144.08 million SGD
Fortress Minerals Ltd Basic Materials OAJ 141.30 million SGD
Catcha Investment Corp Financials CHAA 106.38 million USD Unchanged

 

1. Maybank 

maybank

Sector: Banking
Stock Symbol: MLYBY
Market Cap: 108.30 billion MYR
Revenue: 50.913 billion
Net Profit: 8.373 billion

Maybank (Malayan Banking Berhad) is a leading bank in Malaysia. It is operating in key markets like Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. In 2020, it was recognised as Malaysia’s top bank brand and ranked 70th globally among valuable bank brands by Brand Finance.

In June 2023, Maybank saw a significant increase in net profit, rising by 45.4% compared to 2022. The net profit reached 2.34 billion, translating to earnings per share (EPS) of 19.4 sen. This growth is substantial, given that the net profit was 1.61 billion with an EPS of 13.44 sen in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

Maybank is expected to maintain this positive trend. Forecasts indicate a 5.2% annual growth in both earnings and revenue, with EPS expected to grow by 5.1% per year. Additionally, the return on equity is projected to be 10.7% in the next three years. These projections demonstrate the bank’s steady progress and financial stability.

2. Tenaga Nasional Berhad

Tenaga Nasional

Sector: Utilities

Stock Symbol: TNABY

Market Cap: 57.58 billion MYR

Revenue: 16.18B

Net Profit: 1.87B

TNB (Tenaga Nasional Berhad) is a prominent Malaysian multinational electricity company. It holds the distinction of being the sole electric utility provider in Peninsular Malaysia. It also ranks as the largest publicly-listed power company in Southeast Asia, boasting assets valued at 182.60 billion. TNB’s services reach more than 10.3 million customers in Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, excluding Sarawak. It has an impressive collaboration with Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd.

In the first half of 2023 (1H 2023), TNB experienced a decrease in net profit, which dropped to RM1.33 billion from RM1.77 billion during the same period in 2022. The company’s revenue saw an increase, rising to RM25.95 billion from RM24 billion.

TNB’s revenue is expected to decline by 5.6% annually. The company anticipates substantial growth in annual earnings, with a forecasted increase of 15.8% per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are also projected to grow significantly by 15.4% annually. Furthermore, the return on equity is expected to be 7.6% in the next three years. These forecasts outline the company’s financial outlook and strategic trajectory.

3. MOG Holdings Ltd

MOG Holdings Ltd

Sector: Healthcare

Stock Symbol: 1942

Market Cap: 3.56 billion HKD

Revenue: 158.1M

Net Profit: 14.09M

MOG Digitech Holdings Limited is a fintech company based in Malaysia known for its optical solutions in healthcare. The company operates in several segments, including providing digital RMB solutions for the insurance industry, digitalization for consumers, B2B digital RMB hardware trading, and digital RMB payment solutions. They operate an optical prescription network in Malaysia.

In the past year, MOG Holdings Limited’s stock price has seen a remarkable increase of 738%. Furthermore, in the last quarter alone, the share price has gone up by 208%. Even though the company hasn’t made profits yet, it’s crucial for such companies to show consistent revenue growth to be sustainable. MOG Holdings achieved an impressive 337% growth in revenue last year, surpassing many other similar companies. There’s a possibility that the market might be overly optimistic. If the share price stabilises, it could present an opportunity for investors looking for high-growth prospects.

4. YTL Corp Berhad

YTL Corp Berhad

Sector: Utilities

Stock Symbol: 1773

Market Cap: 16.09 billion MYR

Revenue: 9.1B

Net Profit: 680.82M

YTL Corporation Berhad is a major infrastructure company based in Malaysia. It was established in 1955 by Yeoh Tiong Lay. The company operates globally, with a presence in countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Myanmar, the Netherlands, Thailand, and Vietnam. Over the years, it has evolved from a small construction firm into a significant player in the global infrastructure sector, generating annual revenue exceeding $25 billion, with more than 70% of its revenue coming from outside Malaysia.

In the 12 months ending June 2023, YTL Corporation Berhad experienced substantial growth. Its revenue increased by 22% to 29,508.2 million (US$6,359.5 million) compared to 24,241.5 million (US$5,224.5 million) in the previous year. Moreover, the company’s profit before tax saw a remarkable 47% jump, reaching 2,667.6 million (US$574.9 million) this year, compared to 1,818.4 million (US$391.9 million) in the previous year. Profit after tax also grew significantly, rising by 42% to 2,051.5 million (US$442.1 million) for the 12 months under review, in contrast to 1,449.4 million (US$312.4 million) in the previous year. These figures highlight the company’s robust financial performance and continuous growth.

5. Nestle (M) Berhad

Nestle (M) Berhad

Sector: Food & Beverages

Stock Symbol: MAXIS

Market Cap: 28.91 billion MYR

Revenue: 6.66 billion

Net Profit: 180. 92 million

Nestle (M) Berhad is a company working through its subsidiaries, focusing on selling products like powdered milk, liquid milk, juices, instant coffee, and instant noodles.

Based on data from 121 Nestle consumers in Malaysia, the company’s success is credited to its ability to offer high-quality products at affordable prices and employ effective marketing strategies. These factors are key drivers behind Nestle’s growth and overall success.

Nestle is expected to experience a steady increase in earnings and revenue, with forecasts indicating a growth rate of 10.2% and 3.9% per year, respectively. Earnings per share (EPS) are also anticipated to grow by 11.5%. Additionally, the return on equity is projected to be 35.1% within the next three years. These forecasts highlight the company’s positive trajectory and financial outlook.

6. Sime Darby Plantation Berhad

Sime Darby Plantation Berhad

Sector: Plantation

Stock Symbol: SIMEPLT

Market Cap: 29.05 billion MYR

Revenue: 4.3B

Net Profit: 2.49 billion

Sime Darby Plantation Berhad is a Malaysian company operating globally in integrated plantation businesses. It was founded in 2004. It has five segments: upstream Malaysia, upstream Indonesia, upstream Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (PNG/SI), downstream, and other operations.

For the financial year ending December 31, 2022, the company reported a net profit of 2.49 billion, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. This growth was driven by outstanding performance in its downstream operations. Sime Darby Oils (SDO) recorded a profit of $859 million in 2022, a 61% increase from the previous year. The rise in the average realised crude palm oil (CPO) price, up by 20%, helped offset the 10% decline in fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production. Challenges in FFB production in Malaysia were balanced by better performance in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.

Sime Darby Plantation Berhad foresees a 1.9% annual decline in revenue, but annual earnings are anticipated to grow by 8% per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are expected to increase by 9.1% annually. The return on equity is projected to be 8.5% in the next three years, reflecting the company’s future financial outlook.

7. IOI Corporation Berhad

IOI Corporation Berhad

Sector: Plantation

Stock Symbol: IOICORP

Market Cap: 24.51 billion MYR

Revenue: 1.95B

Net Profit: 1.11 billion

IOI Corporation Berhad was established in 1969 as Industrial Oxygen Incorporated Sdn Bhd. It’s a major conglomerate in Malaysia. The company diversified into property development in 1984 and entered the oil palm plantations and refinery sector in 1985. IOI was listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange in 1980 under MYX: 1961.

Formerly led by Executive Chairman Lee Shin Cheng until his passing, the company is now headed by CEO Lee Yeow Chor. For the financial year ending June 30, 2023, IOI Corporation Berhad reported a reduced net profit of 1.11 billion compared to 1.72 billion in 2022. The company’s revenue also declined to $11 billion.

IOI Corporation Berhad is expected to experience a growth of 6.6% in earnings and 2.8% in revenue annually. Earnings per share (EPS) are projected to increase by 6.4% per year. The return on equity is forecast to be 11.1% in the next three years, indicating the company’s financial outlook.

8. RHB Bank Berhad

RHB Bank Berhad

Sector: Banking

Stock Symbol: RHBBANK

Market Cap: 24.51 Billion MYR

Revenue: 8.66 Billion

Net Profit: 2,707.7 Million

RHB Bank Berhad was established in 1994 and is headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. It is a prominent Malaysian bank. It stands among the largest banks in the country and operates through over 180 branches.

Offering a variety of banking services for individuals, small businesses, and corporations, RHB Bank is unique in providing Islamic banking products and services. The bank has shown consistent growth, with earnings increasing at an average annual rate of 4.6%, surpassing the industry average of 0.5%. Additionally, revenues have been growing steadily at a rate of 4.8% per year.

RHB Bank Berhad is expected to sustain its growth, with earnings and revenue projected to increase by 1.9% and 3.7% per year, respectively. Earnings per share (EPS) are anticipated to grow by 1.8% annually. The return on equity is forecasted to be 9.7% in the next three years, outlining the bank’s stable financial outlook.

9. KLK Berhad

KLK Berhad

Sector: Plantation

Stock Symbol: KLK [2445]

Market Cap: 23.26 billion MYR

Revenue: 5.11B

Net Profit: 368.7 million

Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad (KLK) is a Malaysian multinational company with its primary focus on plantations, specifically oil palm and rubber. The company possesses extensive plantations covering over 250,000 hectares in Malaysia (both Peninsular and Sabah) and Indonesia (Belitung, Sumatra, and Kalimantan). Thong Yaw Hong was the former secretary general of the Malaysian Treasury and served on the KLK board. Lee Oi Hian is the CEO of KLK, and has been or is the chairman of the board of trustees of the Malaysian Palm Oil Council.

KLK has demonstrated impressive growth, with earnings increasing at an average annual rate of 29%, surpassing the food industry’s average of 22.9% annual growth. Additionally, the company has seen its revenues grow at an average rate of 11.4% per year. KLK’s return on equity stands at 8.4%, and it maintains net margins of 4.7%.

KLK’s revenue is expected to experience a modest decline of 0.6% annually, while annual earnings are projected to grow at a steady rate of 6.9% per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are anticipated to increase by 6.4% annually. The return on equity is forecasted to reach 9% in the next three years, indicating the company’s financial outlook.

10. Axiata Group Berhad

Axiata Group Berhad

Sector: Telecommunication

Stock Symbol: PETDAG

Market Cap: 21.85 billion MYR

Revenue: 5.99B

Net Profit: 13,530.1 million

Axiata Group Berhad is a large Malaysian telecommunications company operating across Asia. Its main focus is on investment holding and providing telecommunication and consultancy services globally. It is an emerging market in ASEAN and South Asia. Initially called TM International Bhd (TMI), the company was established on 12 June 1992 and served as the mobile and international operations arm of Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM).

Axiata Group Berhad has faced a decline in earnings, dropping at an average annual rate of -10%, unlike the Wireless Telecom industry, which has seen earnings grow at 4.7% annually. Additionally, its revenues have been decreasing at an average rate of 3.8% per year.

Axiata Group Berhad is expected to experience a significant improvement. Forecasts indicate a substantial 112.2% growth in earnings and a modest 3% growth in revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) is anticipated to increase by 112.7% annually. The return on equity is forecasted to be 4.8% in the next three years, indicating the company’s ongoing challenges.

11. Petronas Dagangan Berhad

Petronas Dagangan

Sector: Retail of Liquefied Petroleum Gas.

Stock Symbol: PETDAG

Market Cap: 22.53 billion MYR

Revenue: 8.91B

Net Profit: 577.5 million

PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad is the domestic marketing arm of PETRONAS and Malaysia’s leading retailer of downstream oil and gas products. It was founded in 1981. Azrul Osman Rani serves as the CEO.

In the first quarter of 2023, the company reported substantial revenue of 48.4 billion, a 21% increase from the same period in 2022. This growth was driven by higher sales volume, although it was partially offset by lower average prices for petroleum and petrochemical products. The profit after tax (PAT) for the quarter was 1 billion.

PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad is projected to continue its growth, with forecasts indicating a 4.1% increase in earnings and a 3% rise in revenue per annum.

12. PPB Group

PPB Group

Sector: food production

Stock Symbol: 1295.KL

Market Cap: 20.66 billion MYR

Revenue: 1.48B

Net Profit: 377.53 million

PPB Group Berhad was founded by Robert Kuok in 1968. It is a diversified Malaysian conglomerate involved in various sectors like food production, agriculture, waste management, film distribution, and property development. Although it went public in 1972, it has continually expanded into different industries, notably becoming the largest flour supplier to downstream food producers after exiting the sugar business in 2009. The Kuok family maintains control with a 50.8% shareholding.

The company has shown steady growth, with earnings increasing at an average annual rate of 15%, although slightly lower than the Food industry’s 22.9% annual growth. Revenues have been growing at a consistent rate of 6.7% per year. PPB Group Berhad’s return on equity stands at 6.6%, and it maintains net margins of 28.4%.

PPB Group Berhad is expected to continue its growth, albeit at a more moderate pace. Forecasts indicate a 2.5% increase in both earnings and revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are anticipated to grow by 2.6% annually. The return on equity is forecasted to be 6.5% in the next three years, reflecting the company’s stable financial outlook.

13. PChem (Petronas Chemicals Group)

PChem (Petronas Chemicals Group)

Sector: Chemicals

Stock Symbol: 5183.KL

Market Cap: 59.84 Billion MYR

Revenue: 7.11 Billion

Net Profit: 532 Million

PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad was founded by Mohd Yusri Bin Mohamed Yusof in 1985. It is a Malaysian chemical producer. The company is involved in producing, marketing, and selling various chemical products, including olefins, polymers, fertilisers, methanol, basic chemicals, derivatives, and specialty chemicals.

PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad has shown consistent growth, with earnings increasing at an average annual rate of 12.3%, slightly below the Chemicals industry average of 13%. Revenues have been growing steadily at an average rate of 12.1% per year. The company has a return on equity of 8.7% and net margins of 11.6%.

PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad is anticipated to continue its growth trajectory. Forecasts indicate a 12.5% increase in earnings and a 2.6% rise in revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are expected to grow by 14% annually. The return on equity is projected to be 9.7% in the next three years, highlighting the company’s positive financial outlook.

14. CIMB Group

CIMB Group

Sector: Financial Services

Stock Symbol: 1023.KL

Market Cap: 59.83 billion MYR

Revenue: 4.77B

Net Profit: 1.64 billion

CIMB Group Holdings Berhad was founded by CEO Abdul Rahman Ahmad in 1974. It is a prominent Malaysian universal bank headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. It operates in high-growth economies within ASEAN and is recognized as an indigenous ASEAN investment bank. CIMB Group has a widespread retail branch network, comprising 1,080 branches across the region.

Although the bank faced a decline in earnings at an average annual rate of -1.4%, in contrast to the banking industry’s 0.5% annual growth, its revenues have been steadily increasing at an average rate of 2.8% per year. CIMB Group Holdings Berhad maintains a return on equity of 9.2% and net margins of 33.4%.

CIMB Group Holdings Berhad is expected to experience growth, with forecasts indicating a 7.6% increase in earnings and a 7.5% rise in revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are anticipated to grow by 7.9% annually. The return on equity is projected to be 10.4% in the next three years, indicating a positive outlook for the company.

15. Silverlake Axis Ltd

Silverlake Axis Ltd

Sector: Technology

Stock Symbol: Q0F.SI

Market Cap: 52.40 billion MYR

Revenue: 4.67B

Net Profit: 301.83

Silverlake Axis Ltd. was established in 1989. It is a technology company specialising in software and services, particularly in the financial services industry. The company focuses on providing digital economy solutions to banks and corporations in various sectors, including banking, retail, government, payment, and logistics.

While Silverlake Axis has faced a decline in earnings at an average annual rate of -1.9%, in contrast to the software industry’s 13.2% annual growth, its revenues have been steadily increasing at an average rate of 4.8% per year. The company maintains a robust return on equity of 14.8% and net margins of 22.1%.

Silverlake Axis is anticipated to experience growth, with forecasts indicating a 7.2% increase in earnings and a 6.1% rise in revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are expected to grow by 6.6% annually. The return on equity is projected to reach 27.9% in the next three years, highlighting a positive outlook for the company.

16. PMetal (Press Metal Aluminium)

PMetal (Press Metal Aluminium)

Sector: Metal and Mining

Stock Symbol: 8869.KL

Market Cap: 40.54 Billion MYR

Revenue: 4.67 Billion

Net Profit: 301.83

Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad was founded in 1986 by CEO Koon Poh Keong, and began as a local aluminium extrusion company. Poh Keong’s brother Poh Ming serves as the executive vice chairman. They initiated their venture by renting a factory in Puchong, Selangor, a state on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Today, Press Metal stands as Southeast Asia’s largest integrated aluminium producer.

The company has exhibited impressive growth, with earnings increasing at an average annual rate of 23.7%, close to the Metals and Mining industry’s 25.3% annual growth. Additionally, revenues have been steadily increasing at an average rate of 13.4% per year. Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad maintains a return on equity of 18.1% and net margins of 8%.

Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad is expected to continue its growth trajectory. Forecasts indicate a 26.4% increase in earnings and a 4% rise in revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are projected to grow by 25.1% annually. The return on equity is expected to reach 21.7% in the next three years, underscoring the company’s promising financial outlook.

17. MISC Berhad

MISC Berhad

Sector: Shopping and Logistics

Stock Symbol: 3816.KL

Market Cap: 31.92 billion MYR

Revenue: 3.55B

Net Profit: 452.90 million

MISC Berhad was founded in 1968 by Yang Chien Yee as Malaysia International Shipping Corporation Berhad, and stands as Malaysia’s leading international shipping line. In September 2005, the company adopted its current identity, changing its name to MISC Berhad.

MISC Berhad has shown growth, with earnings increasing at an average annual rate of 14.7%, though slightly below the Shipping industry’s 28.2% annual growth. Revenues have been growing steadily at an average rate of 10.4% per year. The company maintains a return on equity of 5.9% and net margins of 17.6%.

MISC Berhad is expected to face challenges. Forecasts indicate a 3.3% decline in revenue per year, while annual earnings are expected to grow at a modest rate of 1.4%. Earnings per share (EPS) are anticipated to grow by 1.5% annually. The return on equity is projected to be 6.2% in the next three years, highlighting the company’s efforts to maintain stability amidst changing market conditions.

18. Petronas Gas Berhad

Petronas Gas Berhad

Sector: Gas Utility

Stock Symbol: PETGAS

Market Cap: 34.03 billion MYR

Revenue: 1.64B

Net Profit: 1.67 billion

PETRONAS Gas Berhad is a subsidiary of the global Malaysian energy group Petronas, which operates in over 100 countries. It was Established in 1974 and it is responsible for managing Malaysia’s oil and gas resources. In the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list, Petronas was ranked 216th.

Despite a decline in earnings at an average annual rate of -1.2%, in contrast to the Gas Utilities industry’s 6.4% annual growth, PETRONAS Gas Berhad has seen revenues steadily growing at an average rate of 3.1% per year. The company maintains a robust return on equity of 13.6% and net margins of 26.8%.

PETRONAS Gas Berhad is anticipated to face challenges, with forecasts indicating a 0.8% decline in revenue per year. However, annual earnings are expected to grow at a modest rate of 3.5%. Earnings per share (EPS) are projected to grow by 3.6% annually. The return on equity is expected to reach 14% in the next three years, showcasing the company’s efforts to maintain stability amidst changing market conditions.

19. Hong Leong Bank Berhad

Hong Leong Bank Berhad

Sector: Banking

Stock Symbol: HLBANK

Market Cap: 42.14 billion MYR

Revenue: 1.29B

Net Profit: 3.8 billion

Hong Leong Bank Berhad is a prominent banking group in Malaysia that traces its roots back to 1905 when it began operations in Kuching, Sarawak, as Kwong Lee Mortgage & Remittance Company. It was founded by Cantonese brothers Lam Tee Chew and Lam Song Khee. The company provided loans secured against export commodities like pepper and rubber. It offered money remittance services for overseas Chinese families in Southeast China.

Hong Leong Bank Berhad has shown consistent growth. Earnings have increased at an average annual rate of 8%, outperforming the bank industry, which grew at 0.5% annually. Revenues have been steadily rising at an average rate of 3.9% per year. The bank maintains a healthy return on equity of 11.2% and impressive net margins of 68.5%.

Hong Leong Bank Berhad is expected to sustain its growth. Forecasts indicate a 5.9% increase in earnings and revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are anticipated to grow by 5.8% annually. The return on equity is projected to be 11% in the next three years, demonstrating the bank’s resilience and positive outlook in the market.

20. Top Glove Corp Berhad

Top Glove Corp Bhd

Sector: Healthcare

Stock Symbol: BVA

Market Cap: 6.03 billion MYR

Revenue: 475.86M

Net Profit: 235.97 million

Top Glove Corporation Berhad is a Malaysian company founded in 1991 by Tan Sri Dr Lim Wee Chai, is a leading manufacturer of rubber gloves, face masks, dental dams, and related products. Initially starting with one production line and 100 staff members, the company has grown significantly over the years.

Top Glove Bhd has maintained steady growth, with earnings increasing at an average annual rate of 2.3%, although slightly behind the Medical Equipment industry, which saw a 16.4% annual growth in earnings. Revenues have been rising steadily at an average rate of 2.5% per year.

Top Glove Bhd is poised for substantial growth, with forecasts indicating a remarkable 113.2% increase in earnings and a 29.7% rise in revenue per year. Earnings per share (EPS) are expected to grow by 112.7% annually. The return on equity is projected to be 7.2% in the next three years, reflecting the company’s positive outlook and strategic expansion efforts.

21. United Overseas Australia Limited

United Overseas Australia Limited

Sector: Real Estate

Stock Symbol: UOS

Market Cap: 289.64 million AUD

Revenue: 30.55M

Net Profit: 80.29 million

United Overseas Australia Ltd (UOA Group) is a property development and investment company based in Malaysia. It was founded in 1987 by Malaysian engineers Kong Chong Soon and Kong Pak Lim. The company has developed various commercial and residential projects in the Klang Valley, including the well-known Bangsar South district in Kuala Lumpur.

Despite challenges in the real estate industry, UOA Group has faced declining earnings at an average annual rate of -7.3%. In contrast, the industry has experienced a 13% annual growth in earnings. Revenues for UOA have also been decreasing at an average rate of 24.2% per year.

The company aims to overcome these challenges. UOA Group maintains a return on equity of 4.6% and net margins of 51.5%, indicating a stable financial position. The company continues to navigate the market, seeking opportunities for growth and sustainability.

22. JB Foods Ltd

JB Foods Ltd

Sector: Consumer Staples

Stock Symbol: BEW

Market Cap: 144.08 million SGD

Revenue: 135.6M

Net Profit: 48.15 million

J.B. Foods Private Limited was founded by Ashish Badlani and Dipesh Badlani. They operate under the brand JB Cocoa, known for its premium cocoa ingredient products. JB Cocoa is a part of the public-listed group. JB Foods Limited is traded on the Singapore Exchange. Since its establishment in the 2000s, JB Cocoa has become a significant player in the global cocoa ingredient market, producing cocoa mass, cocoa butter, and cocoa powder used in various chocolate products and cocoa-related foods and beverages.

While the food industry has seen impressive earnings growth at 26.2% annually, JB Foods has faced challenges with a decline in earnings at an average annual rate of -13.6%. Despite this, the company has managed to maintain a return on equity of 9.7% and net margins of 3.4%. JB Foods has shown consistent revenue growth at an average rate of 11.3% per year, indicating resilience and potential for future opportunities in the market.

23. Fortress Minerals Ltd

Fortress Minerals Ltd

Sector: Basic Materials

Stock Symbol: OAJ

Market Cap: 141.30 million SGD

Revenue: 12.18M

Net Profit: 0.60165 million

Fortress Minerals Limited, founded in 2017 by CEO Ivan Chee, is a company based in Malaysia that focuses on mining and selling iron ore. They have two main segments: iron ore and others.

Fortress Minerals has shown impressive growth, with earnings increasing by 32.9% annually, matching the industry average in the metals and mining sector. Their revenues have also been growing steadily at a rate of 31.9% per year. The company’s return on equity stands at 19.4%, and they maintain healthy net margins at 22.6%.

Fortress Minerals is expected to continue its growth trajectory. Forecasts indicate a 14% increase in earnings and an 8.6% rise in revenue annually. Earnings per share (EPS) are projected to grow by 13.5% each year. Additionally, the return on equity is anticipated to be 19.1% in the next three years.

24. Catcha Investment Corp

Catcha Investment Corp

Sector: Financials

Stock Symbol: CHAA

Market Cap: 106.38 million USD

Revenue: 154.1 Million

Net Profit: 2.53 Million

Catcha Investment Corp, established in 2020 by Eric Tan Leong Yit, is a blank check company based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Their primary goal is to acquire businesses and assets through methods like mergers, stock exchanges, and reorganisations.

In the first quarter of 2023, Catcha Investment Corp announced financial results. During this period, the company faced a net loss of USD 0.188331 million, which is a significant decrease compared to the net income of USD 4.72 million reported in the same period last year.

 

2022 vs 2023 Top Companies in Malaysia

Companies Out from 2023 List –

  • Petronas Dagangan Berhad
  • PetDag

Companies In –

  • AmBank
  • Alliance Bank

The changes in Malaysia’s top companies lists reflect the ever-changing nature of the country’s business environment. This dynamic landscape sees new companies rising to prominence and established ones adjusting their strategies to navigate market challenges and seize opportunities.

 

How We Rank the Companies

Market Capitalization and Its Importance

Market capitalisation is a simple way to measure a company’s value in the eyes of the stock market. It helps you understand how big a company is without diving into complex financial details like sales or assets. This figure represents what the market believes the company is worth based on its publicly traded shares. It is a useful tool that investors use to determine the size and worth of a company.

Revenue and Profitability Metrics

Revenue shows how much money a company makes from selling its products or services. It reflects the company’s performance and sales volume. Profitability indicates the company’s financial success and actual earnings after expenses. It gives a clear picture of how well the company is doing financially.

Employee Count and Global Footprint

Employees play an important role in any organisation. They are responsible for carrying out the company’s mission and have a direct impact on customers. This is one of the main reasons why employees are essential for a company’s success and ranking.

Additionally, having a global presence has advantages. It allows the company to communicate effectively with customers in their language and comprehend the local ways of making decisions. This global presence helps in building strong relationships with customers and understanding diverse cultures.

 

Predictions for the Future

Potential Upcoming Market Leaders

Sibu Central Market is Malaysia’s largest indoor market, situated on Channel Road. It combines wet and dry markets, offering a wide variety of goods like crafts, rare jungle items, exotic fruits, local and imported vegetables, and more. In the 2023 Budget, there were proposals aimed at attracting investments in technology and high-impact sectors such as electrical and electronics (E&E) and aerospace.

The Impact of Global Economic Changes on Malaysian Companies

Globalisation has had both good and bad impacts on Malaysia’s economy. It has affected companies in a way that affects how income is shared, employment rates, and the demand for skilled workers. Economic growth in Malaysia relies heavily on exports and growing service sectors like tourism and hospitality. By attracting more foreign tourists, Malaysia’s economy has seen a notable increase in its yearly GDP growth.

Emerging Sectors in the Malaysian Market

The most significant economic sectors in Malaysia are manufacturing, especially electronics, followed by agriculture, retailing, and hospitality services. The World Bank predicts that Malaysia’s economy will grow by 3.9% in 2023, despite low demand from other countries. However, it’s expected to increase to 4.3% in 2024 due to a global recovery, even though China might slow down. Also, Malaysia is considered an upper-middle-income country.

Read also: 10 Best Blue Chip Dividend Stocks in Malaysia

Final Thoughts

In 2023, Malaysia’s top companies show how Malaysia can handle tough economic times, making it a big opportunity in the ASEAN Economic Community. Malaysia is appealing to global investors because it has diverse investments in technology, finance, and manufacturing. We learn important lessons from Malaysian businesses: being adaptable, creative, and forming smart partnerships. These lessons are valuable everywhere, reminding us to be flexible and plan in the ever-changing business world. It’s also crucial to spread investments across different areas, encouraging investors to consider stable international markets like the US stock market. The US market has many sectors, lots of trading, and good long-term growth, as proven by companies like Apple and Amazon. Learning from Malaysia, investors should diversify, adapt, and look for opportunities worldwide.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a listed company in Malaysia?

When a business is registered with the Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (Companies Commission of Malaysia) and trades on the official stock exchange, it is recognised as a listed company in Malaysia. Being listed means the company’s shares are available for public trading on the stock exchange, allowing people to buy and sell them. This listing provides transparency and credibility to the company, making it accountable to shareholders and the public.

What is the biggest company in Malaysia?

Maybank, with a market capitalisation of $23.03 Billion, is the biggest company in Malaysia.

 

Disclaimer: This article on the Top 25 Largest and Most Valuable Companies in Malaysia (2023) is meant for informational purposes. Readers are advised to verify details independently and consult financial experts for personalised investment advice.

Hira Nisar

Hira Nisar, an SEO blogger with four years in cryptocurrencies, excels in creating detailed digital content. Known for her thorough...

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