Star Publications of Malaysia’s radio operations returned to the black in the third quarter, local media reported on Thursday

Despite a 1.4 percent decline in revenue, radio made a pre-tax profit of US$315,000 (RM1.01 million) versus a loss of $140,000 (RM450,000) previously.

Overall Star Publications Bhd reported a 28.4 percent jump in net profit to $13.7 million (RM44.05million) in the quarter ended Sept 30.

The company says earnings were boosted by improve cost control measures.

Group revenue rose 3.1 percent to $82.2 million (RM264.2million) over the same period.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the company said the business environment remained “highly challenging”.

It hopes advertising revenue will pick up in the final quarter.