Bursa Malaysia started Tuesday on a firmer footing, with the market edging higher in early trade as investors showed selective interest in heavyweight and consumer-related stocks.
At 9:09 a.m., the benchmark FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) climbed 7.03 points, or 0.40%, to 1,758.33. The index fluctuated between 1,755.30 and 1,761.57 during the opening minutes, reflecting a cautiously optimistic tone.
Broader market performance mirrored the positive momentum. The FBM70 Index advanced 103.89 points (+0.59%) to 17,594.27, while the FBM Emas Index rose 55.35 points (+0.43%) to 12,839.90.
Shariah-compliant stocks also gained ground, with the FBM Shariah Index adding 51.76 points (+0.42%) to 12,286.48. Meanwhile, the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia (F4GBM) Index increased 4.60 points (+0.45%) to 1,034.75, indicating continued interest in ESG-aligned counters.
Active Counters
Trading activity was led by lower-priced and mid-cap stocks. MMAG topped the volume chart at 4.5 sen, followed by Zetrix at 79.5 sen and Elridge at RM1.32. Other actively traded names included Top Glove (59.5 sen) and Velesto (31 sen).
Top Gainers
Among notable gainers:
- Malaysian Pacific Industries surged 74 sen to RM32.32
- BAT advanced 66 sen to RM5.23
- Fraser & Neave added 50 sen to RM33.50
- Nestlé rose 40 sen to RM112.00
- United Plantations gained 24 sen to RM30.06
Decliners
On the downside, Ajinomoto Malaysia slipped 10 sen to RM13.60. Several Sabah-linked counters and selected industrial stocks, including MISC and PGF, recorded mild losses.
Market Outlook
Despite the positive start, sentiment remains measured. Investors are keeping a close watch on global market trends and upcoming economic data releases, which could influence interest rate expectations and regional fund flows in the near term.
