Heineken Malaysia Berhad (HEINEKEN Malaysia) reported positive financial results for Q3 ending 30 September 2025, with increased revenue, Profit Before Tax (PBT), and net profit. Revenue reached RM656 million, a 6% year-on-year growth, while PBT rose 16% to RM149 million, driven by effective revenue management and disciplined cost control. Net profit benefited from a lower effective tax rate.
For the nine-month period, Group revenue saw a slight decrease of 1% compared to 2024, but PBT increased by 2% to RM419 million, highlighting operational resilience and a steady recovery in performance.
Commenting on the results, Martijn van Keulen, Managing Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia, said, “We are pleased with our strong third-quarter performance, which reflects the resilience of our business fundamentals amid ongoing macroeconomic headwinds. While the trading environment remains volatile—particularly in light of the excise duty increase effective 1 November 2025—we are proactively implementing strategic measures to safeguard profitability and our value growth ambition as we enter the final quarter of the year”.
During the third quarter, the Group launched creative campaigns to connect with consumers:
- Heineken “Ahhh” Moment: Introduced “AghPay,” a playful new mechanic allowing consumers to “pay” with their voice to unlock rewards across selected bars and online.
- Guinness Pint Officer: An interactive activation inviting fans to become the ultimate Guinness ambassador, celebrating the iconic pint through engaging experiences and brand storytelling.
- Tiger Crystal Coldpot: The Coldpot, an ice bucket inspired by hotpot culture was designed to elevate shared dining moments with the crisp refreshment of Tiger Crystal.
In discussing challenges, Martijn stated, “We commend the Royal Malaysian Customs Department and the Government’s Multi-Agency Task Force for their ongoing efforts against illicit beer.
However, we are concerned about the excise duty increase announced in Budget 2026. Malaysia already has one of the highest beer excise rates, and this hike could widen the price gap with illicit beer, potentially fuelling illegal trade and putting Government revenue and consumer safety at risk. Despite these challenges, the Group will continue working closely with authorities to tackle illicit beer.”
The brewing industry estimates that 25% of locally consumed beer is illicit, causing RM1.2 billion in annual tax revenue loss. It advocates for a balanced approach of enforcement and public awareness, emphasizing cooperation with authorities.
These measures are vital for sustaining the brewing sector, which contributes RM7.1 billion to Malaysia’s economy and RM3.3 billion in tax revenue, while supporting over 52,000 jobs. The Board of Directors does not recommend any dividend for the quarter ended 30 September 2025.
On outlook, Martijn shared, “Looking ahead, we aim to build on the strong foundation in the third quarter to support a steady year-end performance. Guided by our EverGreen strategy, we will focus on strengthening our core business, enhancing efficiency, and executing strategic commercial initiatives, reinforced by ongoing investments in digital infrastructure to enhance competitiveness and remain relevant to our customers and consumers.”
The Company’s commitment to people and the planet was recognised with two awards: the Malaysian Dutch Business Council’s Best People Development Award and The Edge Billion Ringgit Club Award 2025 for Best Corporate Responsibility Initiatives, showcasing its Brew a Better World strategy.