George Kent posts higher Q1 pre-tax profit (3204)

George Kent (Malaysia) Bhd's pre-tax
profit for the first quarter ended April 30, 2012 advanced 35 per cent to RM6.5
million from the RM4.84 million recorded in the same period last year.

Revenue rose 29 per cent to RM39.67 million from RM30.74 million previously,
George Kent said in a statement today.

Its Chairman Tan Sri Tan Kay Hock said growth in the manufacturing division
has been encouraging, especially in overseas markets, where the group was able
to leverage on the quality and competitiveness of its products to capture
stronger demand in both exports and original equipment manufacturers (OEM).

"Delivery of our water meter contract to Singapore will commence next
month, and we expect volume in OEM markets such as South and Central America to
further improve.

"We have also achieved a promising start in other export markets such as
Indonesia and the Philippines," he said. -- Bernama