Nippon Paint Malaysia is set to uplift the home renovation and construction industry with its latest upskilling initiative, Akademi Painter. The programme aims to train over 400 local entrepreneurs and painters, enhancing professional expertise, creating job opportunities, and raising industry standards across the Klang Valley.
The initiative comes in response to skill-related underemployment challenges in Malaysia. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the nation’s labour force participation rate reached 70.6 per cent in 2024, yet many skilled workers remain underutilised. By equipping painters and entrepreneurs with high-demand skills, Akademi Painter seeks to bridge this gap and boost economic participation.
Aligned with Malaysia’s Madani Economy Vision 2030, Akademi Painter focuses on fostering entrepreneurial growth and sustainable livelihoods. Tay Sze Tuck, general manager of Nippon Paint Malaysia, underscored the company’s commitment to industry excellence.
“We are committed to supporting our local business owners, painters, and dealers, who are the backbone of our industry. Through upskilling initiatives like Akademi Painter, we strive to foster sustainable livelihoods, drive industry excellence, and contribute to the economic growth of Klang Valley. Ultimately, we aim to empower our painters to help Malaysians create beautiful homes by enhancing their skills and elevating painting standards,” he said.
Beyond technical training, the programme educates painters on product selection, correct application methods, and addressing common misconceptions. Tay added, “As much as we take pride in curating innovative, best-in-class products, proper application is just as crucial. The Akademi Painter initiative equips painters with the technical knowledge needed to understand customer requirements.”
Entrepreneurs who have participated in Akademi Painter attest to its positive impact. Ahmad Faizal Bin Mustofa, owner of Noble Resolve Enterprise Painting and past winner of the Akademi Painter Best Supportive Content Creator award, credited the initiative with transforming his business.
“Akademi Painter taught me how to market my business and enhance my painting skills, allowing me to deliver top-quality workmanship to my clients. I’m proud to say that my business has grown significantly over the past 10 years, and I’ve even been able to create job opportunities for my community,” he shared.
To further support local painters and entrepreneurs, Nippon Paint has integrated an innovative digital tool, Partner Connect, into the programme. This app enhances collaboration within the industry by streamlining communication and fostering growth among paint applicators.
In recognition of participants’ dedication, Nippon Paint also awarded programme certificates to dealers and painters, along with the prestigious Best Nippon Paint Supporter’s Award.
Through Akademi Painter, Nippon Paint continues to invest in the local workforce, equipping entrepreneurs and painters with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving industry. By fostering technical expertise, business acumen, and collaboration, the initiative aims to drive inclusive growth and elevate industry standards across the Klang Valley. 
