The FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (KLCI) closed higher on January 23. It ended at 1,718.48, up 2.64 points or 0.15% from the previous close of 1,715.84. The index opened at 1,715.84. It traded between a low of 1,711.89 and a high of 1,718.57. Gains came from selected heavyweights. Moreover, positive regional sentiment helped. Trading volume was steady. Gainers outnumbered losers 514 to 568. This showed resilient market mood despite global uncertainties.
Movers and Shakers
The KLCI’s rise stemmed from buying in consumer and financials. For example, consumer products led gains. However, some industrials lagged. Top gainers included:
- Nestle: Up RM1.40 to RM117.00 on strong demand.
- Allianz: Rose RM1.08 to RM22.66 amid insurance resilience.
- Carlsberg: Gained RM0.44 to RM17.80 in beverage plays.
- Dutch Lady: Added RM0.40 to RM32.34 on dairy strength.
- F&N: Increased RM0.22 to RM35.86, tied to consumer recovery.
On the other hand, top losers hit plantations and tech. Nestle slipped in some reports, but overall gained. MPI lost RM0.88 to RM33.12. United Plantations fell RM0.22 to RM30.50. Heineken declined RM0.26 to RM22.64. High-volume actives featured Time Dotcom and Hong Leong Industries. Analysts target 1,810 by end-2026. This is based on 8.5% earnings growth.
Policy Changes Impacting KLCI and Malaysia’s Market
Domestically, Bank Negara held OPR at 2.75%. This supports stability. The 13MP drives digital reforms. Budget 2026 expands SST and e-invoicing. Furthermore, green incentives target 4.5% GDP. GEAR-uP aims for RM120 billion investments. NIMP 2030 boosts tech. Carbon tax aligns with ESG.
Globally, US tariff pullbacks lift sentiment. Tariffs on Malaysia at 19%, but exemptions help. October 2025 deal eases risks. Growth at 4.3-4.5%. Ringgit stable aids flows. WEF notes downturn risks and 1.6% inflation. Still, new deals counter tensions.
Other News Potentially Impacting KLCI or Malaysia’s Market
- Economic Data: 2025 GDP hit 4.9%. Q4 surged 5.7%. 2026 outlook: 4.3-4.5%.
- Export Outlook: Growth at 4.6% in 2026. E&E and VM2026 drive it. Trade surplus bolsters ringgit.
- Sector Themes: AI/data centers position Malaysia as hub. M&A in renewables rises. Sukuk issuance high.
- Broader Risks: Trade frictions add uncertainty. Fed pause looms. However, reforms buffer impacts.
Overall, KLCI shows momentum in 2026. Reforms fuel it. Yet, track global risks.