Bursa Malaysia opened higher, tracking improved regional sentiment and a firmer ringgit as investors weighed global growth signals alongside continued volatility in energy markets.
At 9.03am, the FBM KLCI rose 5.18 points or 0.30% to 1,753.24, with the index trading between 1,752.94 and 1,754.00 in early deals. Broader market indices also advanced, with FBM70 up 0.22%, FBM EMAS gaining 0.27% and FBM Shariah rising 0.33%, signalling a broadly positive start across the board.
Market tone was supported by a steadier ringgit, which opened stronger against the US dollar as investors monitored ongoing West Asia peace negotiations and their potential impact on oil prices and global risk appetite. Analysts noted that Brent crude had climbed more than 3% to above US$104 per barrel, adding to inflation and margin pressures globally but also shaping cautious trading behaviour.
Among heavy volume stocks, activity was concentrated in lower-priced counters with GIIB Holdings leading turnover despite a decline, while Top Glove Corporation gained 0.785 in early trade. AirAsia X and CEB were among the most actively traded but moved lower, reflecting mixed sentiment in lower-lane plays.
On the gainers list, defensive and index-linked names supported sentiment with Nestlé Malaysia, Petronas Gas, Hume Industries, Kesm Industries and Press Metal Aluminium Holdings posting early advances.
However, some industrial and technology-linked stocks came under mild pressure, including UWC Berhad, Frontken Corporation and Unimech Group.
The ringgit’s strength, alongside expectations of steady domestic growth and upcoming GDP data later this week, helped anchor sentiment, even as global markets remain sensitive to oil prices, US labour data, and geopolitical developments.
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