Sime Darby Plantation Berhad recorded a net profit of RM1.93 billion for the nine months ended 30 September 2022 representing an 8% year-on-year increase. For quarter three ended, the Group achieved a net profit of RM396 million.
The group said in 3Q FY2022, higher fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production was recorded in Indonesia (+21% YoY) and Papua New Guinea (+1% YoY) but FFB production in Malaysia saw a decline (-27% YoY) resulting in an overall 8% reduction for the Group. The decline in productivity was largely due to the shortage of harvesters but this was mitigated by higher average realised crude palm oil prices (+13% YoY).
Sime Darby, continued its stellar performance in 3Q FY2022, registering a PBIT of RM337 million, a significant increase from RM6 million recorded in 3Q FY2021. SDO’s Asia Pacific operations registered higher trading margins during the quarter which mitigated lower overall sales volumes and lower margins in its European operations
Chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Haji Megat Najmuddin bin Datuk Seri Dr Haji Megat Khas said: Despite the unprecedented operational challenges faced, the Group is resolute in delivering long-term value to our stakeholders.
Group Managing Director, Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha said: We welcome the entry of more migrant workers into Malaysia which is now gathering speed. As we work hard to restore our plantations to optimal conditions, we are also
pushing ahead with our plans to automate and mechanise several functions in our Malaysian operations.
In a statement, the planter said it is aiming to progressively reduce the need for manual workers in all its non-harvesting activities and aims to achieve a land-to-man ratio of 17.5 hectares for every worker by the end of 2024, which will be a major improvement compared to the current industry average of 8 hectares for every worker.
The Group expects its overall FFB production to be lower than the previous year due to the slow inflow of foreign workers into Malaysia. CPO price, which peaked in the first half of 2022, has now stabilised as increased supply in producing countries fulfil pent-up global demand. The CPO price is anticipated to remain attractive in comparison to alternative vegetable oils which would continue to support demand.
