KUALA LUMPUR: The benchmark FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI hit a high last seen in 2019, as the broader market continued to underperform.
At 10.05am, the FBM KLCI was up 8.21 points to 1,683.45.
The broader market however remained negative with investors selective on stock picks.
Losers led gainers 533 to 320, while 387 counters unchanged.
The benchmark index opened lower hitting a low 1,664.85 points before staging a strong rebound.
Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd equity research vice president Thong Pak Leng said despite the strong performance of blue-chip stocks, sentiment towards mid and small caps remained uninspiring, with most ending the day lower yeterday.
"Although daily volume traded improved, it was insufficient to prop up the broader market.
"Despite the 40 points jump in the benchmark index since last Friday, we continue to stay positive and believe that liquidity will eventually cascade down to the broader market," he said.
Thong said the index is expected to hover within the 1,670-1,680 range.