KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 - Esso Malaysia Berhad today announced the Company's second quarter and first half results for the year ended June 30, 2009 as follows:

The Company recorded an after tax profit of RM129 million in the second quarter, RM30 million lower than the same period in 2008. This brings the profits for the first half 2009 to RM180 million, compared to the profits of RM209 million recorded in the first half of last year. The positive results for the second quarter and first half of 2009 and for the corresponding periods of 2008 primarily reflected inventory holding gains and improved margins.

Revenues for the second quarter and first half of the year were RM1.9 billion and RM3.4 billion respectively, versus RM3.3 billion and RM6.3 billion for the same period in 2008 driven by lower product prices.

Looking forward, 2009 remains a challenging year for the industry in view of continued uncertain global economy and crude price environment. In this environment our strategy remains focused on flawless operations and cost control, product and service quality, while sustaining our competitive position.