SHAH ALAM: I-Bhd

recorded another resilient set of results for the six months ended June 30, demonstrating the strength of its diversified business model while continuing to build momentum behind its next phase of growth centred on AI Living and AI World.

For the first half of FY2026, the group recorded profit before taxation of RM27mil, an improvement over the corresponding period last year despite a softer property development market and more cautious consumer spending.

The improved earnings were supported by stronger contributions from its property development and property investment businesses, reflecting the increasing resilience and quality of the group's earnings base.

Property development profit before taxation increased 17% to RM12.1mil, driven by improved margins from sales of Twenty8 and 8 Premier.

The property investment segment continued to be the group's largest recurring earnings contributor, with profit before taxation rising 29% to RM13mil. The performance was supported by approximately 96% occupancy at Mercu Maybank Corporate Tower, full occupancy at Block M Data Centre and resilient contributions from Central i-City Mall.

Beyond its financial performance, the group believes 2026 represents an important strategic milestone as it progresses from being primarily a property developer towards becoming an integrated AI-enabled urban ecosystem.

This momentum was recently showcased during DATUM 2026, held in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival (KLAF 2026) that was officiated by the Housing and Local Government Minister.

At that session attended by approximately 2,200 architects and industry professionals, i-City highlighted how AI, robotics and intelligent building systems can be integrated into future residential developments to improve everyday living through greater care, comfort, convenience and community.

The presentation also demonstrated the progress of the AI Living ecosystem being developed by i-City together with technology partners covering AI orchestration, robotics, wellness, building automation and digital services. The strong response from the architectural community reinforces management's confidence that AI Living is evolving from a technology concept into a practical development model.

I-Bhd chairman Tan Sri Lim Kim Hong said: "Our strategy is no longer simply about developing properties. We are building an integrated urban ecosystem where recurring investment income, destination businesses and AI-enabled developments reinforce one another.

“AI Living represents the next evolution of i-City and positions the group to participate in the emerging convergence of property, artificial intelligence and robotics."

While near-term market conditions remain selective, the group remains confident that its diversified earnings base, growing recurring income and AI-driven development strategy provide a strong platform for sustainable long-term growth and shareholder value creation.

Looking ahead, I-Bhd's long-term strategy is supported by approximately RM5bil of remaining gross development value within i-City. The upcoming AI World developments, including AI Living residences, are expected to become key catalysts for future growth while complementing the group's expanding recurring income base.