Nippon Paint and MARA Sign MoU to Propel Automotive Technical and Vocational Education in Malaysia

September 27, 2024

Nippon Paint and MARA Sign MoU to Propel Automotive Technical and Vocational Education in Malaysia

The partnership aims to foster a skilled workforce to support Malaysia’s automotive sector

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Event showcasing Nippon Paint's collaboration for vehicle body painting technology training, featuring key speakers and signing of agreements.

Malacca, 27 September 2024 – Nippon Paint (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd (“Nippon Paint”) and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advancing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Malaysia. This strategic partnership aims to foster the development of skilled professionals in the automotive coating industry. 

The vision to make Malaysia an automotive export hub is highly achievable under the National Automotive Policy 2020, as Malaysia currently has the second-largest automotive industry in Southeast Asia. The automotive sector is a cornerstone of our nation’s economy, producing a record-high total production volume of 799,731 vehicles in 2023, and the demand for a high-skilled TVET workforce and quality automotive parts to support this goal is crucial. 

Held at MITC Melaka, Ir. Mohd Nizam Mokhri, Deputy Director of the External and International Relations Branch, Skills & Technical Division of MARA, emphasised the importance of partnerships, “In line with the National TVET Policy 2030 aimed at producing skilled human capital imbued with national values, collaborations with industry leaders such as Nippon Paint are timely. These partnerships equip young Malaysians with industry-relevant skills and enable us to collaborate on advancing sectors like the automotive coating industry. As our Prime Minister highlighted during the launch of the National TVET Policy, we must align with the world’s current demands to ensure our workforce remains highly sought after for its exceptional quality.” 

General Manager of Nippon Paint, Mr. Tay Tze Tuck said that the signing of the MoU was a pivotal moment for the company. He stated, “This MoU marks a significant milestone for Nippon Paint as we continue to invest in the future of Malaysia’s workforce and automotive industry. In the highly competitive automotive refinishing segment, Nippon Paint Automotive Refinish is always pushing the boundaries further to stay ahead, setting new industry standards with the finest coatings for every type of vehicle for our Malaysian car owners. This way, we also strive to provide the best with our specially developed coatings that offer aesthetic superiority but also provide enhanced protection and longevity for their vehicles. This is in line with our commitment to setting new industry standards, and this collaboration supports Malaysia’s goals of boosting exports to the economy through producing high-quality local auto parts.” 

The MoU facilitates comprehensive training programs for 240 MARA students and 37 lecturers, with the help of Nippon Paint employees, focusing on auto-refinishing skills. Up to 24 selected MARA training centres will be accredited as certified Nippon Paint training centres, ensuring that the education provided meets high industry standards and is relevant to current market needs.

About Nippon Paint Malaysia Group 

Since 2008, the Nippon Paint Malaysia Group (“NPM Group”) has enjoyed a market leadership position as Malaysia’s No. 1 Total Coating Solutions provider while also having a significant presence in the coatings industry in countries such as Pakistan, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Indonesia.  

In 2022, aligned to its global strategy, the NPM Group firmly etched its niche position as the 1st in the region to offer Total Coating and Construction Solutions (TCCS), giving it the competitive edge to offer total compatible systems for high quality, perfect finishings and protection, from the floor to the roof, and everything in between. This strategic development has been made possible through the corporate acquisitions of CMI Construction Material Industry Sdn. Bhd. (CMI), CMI Marketing Sdn. Bhd. (CMIM), Selleys and Vital Technical Sdn Bhd (V-Tech).  

First established in 1967 as Nippon Paint (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd, the NPM Group is part of the Nippon Paint Group, which has a leadership presence spanning 22 geographical locations and has been built on a heritage of over 130 years dating back to 1881 in Japan.  

The NPM Group places strong emphasis in Research and Development (R&D) activities, which remains a core priority to its success in product innovation. As a global leader in coating technologies with a database of more than 10,000 paint formulations, the NPM Group prides itself in being a Total Coating & Construction Solutions (TCCS) provider with a multi-segment portfolio of offerings ranging from Architectural, Automotive, Industrial, Protective to Marine coatings from end-to-end solutions including painting tools, waterproofing solutions, flooring solutions, dry mix solutions as well as Sealant, Adhesive, Filler (SAF) solutions.  

The Group has won consumer choice awards such as the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Awards (2006- 2023), Putra Brand Awards (2010-2023) and Parents’ Choice Awards (2018- 2020), as well as received industry accolades such as the APPIES 2018 Gold award for its Child Wellness Range campaign, Best Company for Leadership in Paint Technology Asia by IAIR in 2014 and Frost & Sullivan’s Paint & Coatings Company of The Year in 2011, the Paint Company of the Year 2016 and New Product Innovation Leadership Award 2016 and the 2020 Malaysia Decorative Paints and Coatings Market Leadership Award.   

In its concerted effort to champion sustainability towards a greener footprint, the Group has received the Green Label Certification (by the Singapore Environment Council), Eco-Labelling Certification License (by SIRIM QAS International) and several Green Excellence Awards by Frost & Sullivan.

For more information on Nippon Paint Malaysia: 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/nipponpaintmalaysia 

YouTube: www.youtube.com/NipponPaintMalaysia 

Toll free no: 1-800-88-2663 

Nippon Paint – We are Inspired by You.

Nippon Paint Partners with PAM and Architect Centre to Alleviate Landscape Challenges for Better Industry Standards

September 26, 2024

Nippon Paint Partners with PAM and Architect Centre to Alleviate Landscape Challenges for Better Industry Standards

Architects and engineers convene to futureproof their practices in the construction industry, aiming to mitigate common industry complications for improved buildings and sites in Malaysia.

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Panel discussion at the Nippon Paint "Forward Reinvent" event, featuring industry experts discussing architectural challenges. Speakers include Ar. Ellina Rahman, Ester Goh from Nippon Paint, Ar. Anthony Lee Tee, and Ar. Ts. Iqbal Tan. The event focuses on innovative solutions in design and construction.

KUALA LUMPUR, 26 September 2024 – Nippon Paint (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (“Nippon Paint”) in collaboration with Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) and Architect Centre, successfully hosted the Forward Reinvent Seminar focused on Defeating Design Demons: Navigating the Unseen Challenges in Architecture, drawing over 300 industry professionals, including developers, architects, quantity surveyors, and engineers. The event focused on upskilling industry stakeholders and discussing challenges in the Malaysian architecture landscape to mitigate these issues, ultimately contributing to the creation of more durable, sustainable, and high-quality buildings throughout Malaysia.

Building defects are often due to poor workmanship, faulty materials, and design flaws. The seminar addressed these concerns by sharing innovative techniques and best practices to minimise such problems, potentially saving the construction industry millions of ringgit annually. Moreover, with Malaysia’s urban population projected to increase to 80% by 2030, there is a heightened demand for better construction practices to support the country’s rapid urbanisation.

The seminar featured prominent speakers, Ar. Ellina Rahman from DP Architects, Ar. Anthony Lee Tee from Architect Centre and Ester Goh, Senior Manager of the Project Division of Nippon Paint, provided actionable insights into key challenges facing the construction industry.

Ar. Ellina Rahman, an expert in complementary architecture, highlighted some of the realities of the architecture industry: “As industry professionals, we have to juggle between material limitations, compliance codes, and, more often than not, a fluctuating client brief. Managing these variables while protecting the integrity of the building is no easy feat, but it is highly pertinent in ensuring a design remains functional, safe, and timeless. 

“Maintenance is another component we need to take note of to address issues like deterioration or water leakage in rooftops. The job may not be glamorous, but it requires foresight, planning, and collaboration with skilled contractors and engineers. Ultimately, architecture is an evolving process, having to ensure our creations stand the test of time while achieving the vision in place.”

Prioritising Material Science and Long Term Solutions

Ar. Anthony Lee, a leading voice in the Malaysian architecture scene, pointed out that comprehensively tackling the root cause has to be prioritised as opposed to fixing the topline solution. For example, a leakage issue at the top slab can lead to cascading problems, requiring extensive and costly repairs. 

“By investing in proper waterproofing and high-quality materials from the beginning, we can avoid the time-consuming and expensive process of fixing moisture-related problems down the line. This includes adopting the right formwork (temporary or permanent moulds used to shape and support concrete until it hardens) to avoid excessive plaster thickness. Collaboration with engineers is imperative in addressing this issue and ensuring the accuracy of material science throughout the construction process.”

Anthony also encouraged young architects to take on Alteration & Addition (A&A) projects. “A&A work often requires complex structural adjustments, such as navigating existing cables, curtain walls, and fire safety issues. However, this is where architects develop critical problem-solving skills that make future new construction projects far easier to manage. Remember, architects are not just designers but master builders. Design innovation is key to driving both progress and sustainability in our industry.”

The Importance of Refurbishment Projects

The seminar also focused on refurbishment projects, particularly in the urban areas. With limited land for new developments, many old buildings are undergoing restoration, adding new complexities to the construction process. 

Ellina shared, “In refurbishment projects, we often awaken what we call ‘sleeping demons.’ For instance, old systems that are functional but outdated require upgrades, such as adjusting pool depths or dealing with water issues that the original design did not account for.” 

Nippon Paint has vast experience in tackling refurbishment challenges. Through its Total Coating & Construction Solutions (TCCS), the company has successfully collaborated with developers, architects, and contractors on over 100 new and refurbishment projects. Some of these include Sky Oasis Residence and Impiana Hotel in Johor, Setiawalk in Selangor, CIMB Hub in KL, and more.

Crowd engaging with Nippon Paint's waterproofing solutions display, featuring various applications for wet areas, including bathrooms, balconies, and swimming pools, highlighting Nippon CEM products for effective waterproofing and tiling systems.

Water Intrusion: A Silent, But Dangerous Threat1

Water intrusion remains a prominent pain point in many projects, which causes 40 per cent of all building-related issues, with the seminar panel emphasising that poor construction methods can lead to long-term legal and financial constraints. 

Although roofs represent only about two per cent of construction costs, water intrusion contributes to over 70 per cent of construction litigation, with roof failures and their consequences frequently at the core of these disputes.

Ester Goh addressed systemic issues in high-rise projects, particularly the 90% failure rate in rooftop waterproofing due to improper installation. She explained that waterproofing is often treated as an afterthought during construction, which can lead to issues such as ponding and even sinkholes. 

“Once the waterproofing layer is damaged, it can lead to costly repairs, affecting not only the structure but also causing disputes between contractors and developers, or in worse cases, leading to litigation issues. Continuous waterproofing throughout the construction process is vital to prevent such problems.

“Solving waterproofing issues requires more than just quality products; it requires integrated solutions. Nippon Paint’s comprehensive approach ensures that our solutions address not just the materials but the entire process, from preparation to application, to achieve long-term results.”

A Compatible System from Bare To Finish

Ester further elaborated on how environmental consequences across various industries are often overlooked, whether it’s chemical exposure, temperate fluctuations or static electricity. Nippon Paint’s flooring solutions cater to a broad spectrum of applications, from industrial settings like automotive centres and manufacturing facilities to sports courts and parking structures:

  • To prevent cracking from rapid temperature changes, Nippon Paint’s thermal shock-resistant flooring maintains structural integrity. 
  • In high-tech environments like semiconductor plants, anti-static flooring safeguards equipment by preventing electrostatic discharge, creating a safe work environment.
  • For sports facilities, Nippon Paint offers flooring with optimal shock absorption and slip resistance, enhancing safety and performance. 
  • Car park solutions are built to endure heavy traffic, resist oil spills, and provide long-lasting protection.

Ester shared: “We’re also proud of our Anti-Efflorescence system, the first in the region to offer a warranty. It uses advanced water-repellent (hydrophobic) technology to prevent water seepage and reduce surface cracks caused by harsh weather. This helps keep walls free from salt deposits, ensuring the building’s integrity and aesthetic for longer. Efflorescence is more than just an aesthetic concern; it signals potential moisture problems within the walls. If left untreated, these issues can lead to severe defects, such as fungus and mould growth, as well as paint blistering and eventual deterioration of the surface.

“At Nippon Paint, we’re committed to delivering total compatible system solutions that prioritise both quality protection and beautiful finishing in every project.”

Mr. Chen Lee Siong, General Manager of TU Business at Nippon Paint, said, “This seminar highlighted crucial complexities within the industry, which demand continuous learning and adaptation from construction professionals to ensure the durability and functionality of their projects. 

“We also want to hear from industry veterans on deeper issues faced by the industry to tailor our solution to meet any rising demands, contributing to the advancement of construction practices in Malaysia.” 

For further information on Nippon Paint’s Total Coating and Construction Solutions (TCCS), please visit https://professional.nipponpaint.com.my/refurbishment.

ABOUT NIPPON PAINT

Since 2008, the Nippon Paint Malaysia Group (“NPM Group”) has enjoyed a market leadership position as Malaysia’s No. 1 Total Coating Solutions provider while also having a significant presence in the coatings industry in countries such as Pakistan, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Indonesia.

In 2022, aligned with its global strategy, the NPM Group firmly etched its niche position as the 1st in the region to offer Total Coating and Construction Solutions (TCCS), giving it the competitive edge to provide total compatible systems for high quality, perfect finishings and protection, from the floor to the roof, and everything in between. This strategic development has been made possible through the corporate acquisitions of CMI Construction Material Industry Sdn. Bhd. (CMI), CMI Marketing Sdn. Bhd. (CMIM), Selleys and Vital Technical Sdn Bhd (V-Tech).

It was first established in 1967 as Nippon Paint (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd, the NPM Group is part of the Nippon Paint Group, which has a leadership presence spanning 22 geographical locations and has been built on a heritage of over 130 years dating back to 1881 in Japan.

The NPM Group places a strong emphasis on Research and Development (R&D) activities, which remains a core priority to its success in product innovation. As a global leader in coating technologies with a database of more than 10,000 paint formulations, the NPM Group prides itself in being a Total Coating & Construction Solutions (TCCS) provider with a multi-segment portfolio of offerings ranging from Architectural, Automotive, Industrial, Protective to Marine coatings from end-to-end solutions including painting tools, waterproofing solutions, flooring solutions, dry mix solutions as well as Sealant, Adhesive, Filler (SAF) solutions.

The Group has won consumer choice awards such as the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Awards (2006- 2023), Putra Brand Awards (2010-2023) and Parents’ Choice Awards (2018- 2020), as well as received industry accolades such as the APPIES 2018 Gold award for its Child Wellness Range campaign, Best Company for Leadership in Paint Technology Asia by IAIR in 2014 and Frost & Sullivan’s Paint & Coatings Company of The Year in 2011, the Paint Company of the Year 2016 and New Product Innovation Leadership Award 2016 and the 2020 Malaysia Decorative Paints and Coatings Market Leadership Award. 

In its concerted effort to champion sustainability towards a greener footprint, the Group has received the Green Label Certification (by the Singapore Environment Council), Eco-Labelling Certification License (by SIRIM QAS International) and several Green Excellence Awards by Frost & Sullivan.

For more information on Nippon Paint Malaysia:

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Nuzul Harisyah
Executive
nuzul.harisyah@edelman.com
+6014-9252504