Bandar Utama – Media Prima Berhad (“Media Prima” or “the Group”), Malaysia’s largest and leading fully-integrated media group remained resilient despite a challenging year. Gross revenue grew to RM2.04 billion compared to RM2.01 billion in December 2012. The Group also recorded growth in Profit After Tax and Minority Interest (“PATAMI”) for the YTD December 2013 which stood at RM214.2 million.
According to Datuk Johan Jaaffar, Chairman of Media Prima, “I am very pleased to report the results for the financial year 2013 and we are well positioned for future growth. For the second year in a row, Media Prima recorded gross revenue surpassing the two billion-ringgit threshold despite the increasingly difficult operating environment. Our confidence in Media Prima’s ability to sustain profitability and maintain its dominant position is demonstrated by the announcement of a revised dividend policy.” Datuk Johan added that in light of the Group’s continuously strong financial position, Media Prima has announced the adoption of a revised dividend policy, to 60 percent – 80 percent from the current 25 percent – 75 percent of PATAMI, to be paid quarterly or at a minimum twice a year subject to availability of cash, funds requirement and quarterly financial performance.
Media Prima also announced that the Board of Directors has declared a third interim single tier dividend of 3.0 sen per ordinary share for the financial year ended December 31, 2013, to be paid on March 28, 2014. In addition to that, the Board of Directors also recommended a final single tier dividend of 5.0 sen per ordinary share for the financial year ended December 31, 2013 which is subject to the approval of shareholders at the forthcoming Thirteenth (13th) Annual General Meeting of the Group. With that, the total interim dividends for the current financial year is 14.0 sen per ordinary share.
Dato’ Amrin Awaluddin, Group Managing Director of Media Prima said, “2013 was a challenging year for Media Prima, recording an increase of RM25.1 million and RM7.1 million in net revenue and PATAMI respectively. Media Prima’s complete media offering and leadership position has enabled the Group to offer comprehensive, customised and integrated marketing solutions to the clients. Furthermore, our continued investment in compelling and relevant content across all our media platforms makes us the preferred choice for consumers.”
Dato’ Amrin added that the Group’s Radio Networks, Outdoor Media, Television Networks and Digital Media recorded revenue growth compared to corresponding year last year. Media Prima Radio Networks recorded higher revenue and profit after tax (PAT) by 16 and 39 percent respectively from higher advertiser spending and favourable market environment. Outdoor Media recorded 4 percent growth in revenue and 5 percent increase in PAT, with increased contributions from new and upgraded sites as well as revenue from digital screens. Digital Media also recorded revenue increase by 35 percent attributed to the take up of online advertising. Meanwhile, Print Media revenue for the year declined by 3 percent from both advertising and circulation revenue.
Moving forward, Dato’ Amrin stated that the Group’s estimated ADEX growth in 2014 is expected to be spurred by major international events such as the FIFA World Cup, the Asian Games, the Commonwealth Games and Visit Malaysia Year. “Media Prima will continue to build on the momentum we have achieved capitalising on our strategic media platforms. Key to our strength is our ability to reach a wider consumer base through our fully integrated media platforms. In addition, we will continue to develop quality content across all our media platforms to retain and attract consumers,” said Dato’ Amrin. Media Prima is optimistic of future growth, whilst continuing to exercise prudent financial management and to improve operational efficiencies.
