Passionate about introducing sustainable ideas, AkzoNobel actively invests in the greater cause of inspiring and engaging its community to paint a vibrant future. Hence, AkzoNobel in partnership with Sin Chew Daily, have embarked on a new initiative to care for the underprivileged within the community through the 'Colour My Home' Campaign. Aimed at spreading the joy of colours to the less fortunate, the campaign will see charity homes in Peninsular Malaysia undergo a transformative home painting and decoration project.

As the world's largest paints and coatings company, AkzoNobel - who acquired paint manufacturers ICI Paints in 2008 - believes that colours have a power beyond aesthetics and have the ability transform lives. Thus, AkzoNobel will use its resources and expertise to provide a suitable, comfortable and sustainable environment for children and senior citizen residents in multiple charity homes throughout the nation.

Launched on March 29, 2011 at the Sin Chew Cultural Hall, the campaign was set in motion with the announcement of the Orphanage Home Painting Competition. This outreach project is a collaborative effort of volunteers comprising students, employees of AkzoNobel and second generation dealers and distributors who will be painting and working to improve orphanages and old folk's homes over a three-month duration. Students participating in the campaign will also compete in a mural contest, turning one wall of each home into a colourful mural.

Kick-starting in March 2011, the competition will cover the nation's North Peninsular (centres in Penang, Kedah, Perlis, Perak), Central Malaysia (centres over Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Negeri Sembilan and East Coast), as well as the Southern Peninsular (centres in Melaka and Johor).

The judging period will be ongoing throughout August with the announcement of results set for September 2011. Participants of the competition can look forward to attractive prizes totalling up to RM33,000.

Established to enrich lives with the cheer of colours, AkzoNobel understands that colours are more than just aesthetics; they have the power to change lives. As proud supporters of this charitable cause, AkzoNobel believes that their green products can truly effect a new way of thinking and transform not only the way the homes look, but also the lives of the residents who live there. AkzoNobel's continuous support for the community will indeed make a difference the individuals from different walks of life.

As the saying goes, a little goes a long way.