By: ICN Bureau
Last updated : November 24, 2025 12:39 pm
Operational efficiency was a key driver, with the group’s plant utilisation climbing to 90% from 77% in Q2
PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad (PCG) has posted a stronger third-quarter performance for the financial year ending 31 September 2025, with higher revenue, improved earnings, and a sharp reduction in losses.
Revenue rose 5% to RM6.8 billion from RM6.4 billion in the previous quarter, driven by higher sales volumes, while EBITDA surged 26% to RM497 million, fueled by robust product spreads in urea and ammonia and lower foreign exchange losses. Loss after tax (LAT) narrowed dramatically to RM291 million, down from RM1 billion in Q2, thanks to reduced currency revaluation impacts and the absence of exceptional items.
Operational efficiency was a key driver, with the group’s plant utilisation climbing to 90% from 77% in Q2, despite a planned turnaround at its fertiliser plant in Sabah.
Mazuin Ismail, PCG’s Managing Director and CEO, said: “This quarter’s performance reflects the tangible benefits of operational discipline. Our plants performed well, the planned shutdown at our Sabah fertiliser facility was safely completed, and cost optimisation efforts continue to deliver results. On a year-to-date basis, we have improved EBITDA by over RM400 million.”
He highlighted continued innovation in specialty chemicals, including the launch of the Neptem™ range of emulsifiers for waterborne alkyds, reducing volatile organic compounds in paints and coatings. A total of 15 new products have been developed this year.
Despite the positive results, PCG remains cautious. The group paused its Creditors Reliability Test (CRT) at the Pengerang Integrated Complex due to weak market conditions but will resume when conditions improve.
Looking ahead, PCG expects ongoing challenges from oversupply and subdued demand, particularly in its Olefins and Derivatives and Specialties segments. Fertiliser and methanol markets could see potential upside from export restrictions in China and seasonal factors.
“By staying flexible and value-focused, we are well-positioned to capture opportunities as markets recover,” Mazuin added.