Transparency in Malaysian property companies

Purpose - This purpose of this paper is to investigate the current level of transparency based on the customised transparency matrix (TM) amongst the top listed property companies in Malaysia, based on capital market value. Furthermore, this paper discusses the concept of transparency from the perspective of Malaysian property markets. Design/methodology/approach - Data for this research were collected from the top 30 property companies in Malaysia through their annual reports and corporate websites. The indicator of transparency was developed based on various literature surveys and other research findings. Using the developed indicators, the study analysed the transparency attributes from TM of the top 30 listed property companies in Malaysia. Findings - In terms of transparency levels and widely implemented transparency elements, the findings revealed that Malaysian property companies were within a "good level" range. Research limitations - The research is based on a study of the top 30 listed property companies in Malaysia based on market capital values as at 30th June 2010. Originality/value - This paper examines the transparency level of property companies in Malaysia based on each company's current annual report. The findings provide some insights and guidelines for the industry as well as academics on the transparency level particularly in Malaysian property business.