Datasonic Group Berhad (Datasonic), a security-related integrated ICT solutions providers in Malaysia, announced a revenue surge of 152.7% year-on-year to RM344.7 million on the back of higher supply of passports, smart cards and personalisation services the fourth quarter (4QFY23) and full year results for the year ended 31 March 2023 (“FY23”).
This was Datasonic’s best-ever top-line performance in its history, which surpassed the previous high of RM318.4 million achieved in FY17.
Subsequently, this propelled Datasonic’s profit after tax and non-controlling interest (PATNCI) to RM76.4 million for FY23. This represents a jump of 7.5 folds from RM10.2 million in FY22. Additionally, it is worth pointing out that this was the second highest-ever net profit posted by Datasonic, not far from the record of RM81.9 million net profit registered in FY13.
Datasonic Executive Chairman Datuk Haji Abu Hanifah Noordin said, “The past few financial years have been highly challenging for us due to the pandemic. Hence, we are delighted to have recovered healthily from the pandemic-related downturn and delivered a robust top and bottom-line performance for FY23. Moving forward, elevated market uncertainties is expected to persist and global economies will experience a slowdown compared to the previous year. For us, the situation has been manageable thus far and we are confident to overcome the obstacles ahead by leveraging on our technical expertise, proven track record along with sound management practices.”
“Nevertheless, despite these headwinds, the demand for passports has been strong since the reopening of international borders and we anticipate this trend to continue in the near future. With that, Datasonic remains highly committed to meeting the demand with timely and uninterrupted deliveries as part of our ongoing contributions to national security. In addition to this core focus, the Group is also excited about the potential for orders of MyKad to rebound pre-COVID-19 levels.”
“Moving forward, Datasonic’s outlook remains exciting underpinned by our strategic plans and healthy order book. We look forward to continuing to break new ground in the years to come barring any unforeseen circumstances,” he further added.
For the current quarter under review, Datasonic reached a new milestone as well by delivering its record-breaking quarterly revenue of RM104.9 million, the first time its quarterly revenue exceeded the RM100 million mark. This was an increase of 93.1% YoY from RM54.3 million in the previous year corresponding quarter. Similarly, 4QFY23 net profit expanded 69.8% YoY to RM22.7 million versus RM13.4 million in 4QFY22. The solid 4QFY23 performance was driven by greater supply of passports, smart cards and personalisation services.
As of 31 March 2023, Datasonic’s order book stands at approximately RM339 million and remains in a net cash position.
Meanwhile, the Board has declared a fourth interim dividend of 0.75 sen per share, bringing the total dividend per share for FY23 to 2.0 sen. This translates to a dividend payout ratio of 74.2% based on FY23 net profit of RM76.4 million.
Datasonic has been consistently paying dividends every year since its listing in 2012.
