Nippon Paint Partners MIPFM to Safeguard Properties Against Human Coronavirus

Kuala Lumpur, 30th September 2020 - Malaysia’s No. 1 total coating solutions provider, Nippon Paint Malaysia (“Nippon Paint”) distributed 600 litre of its latest coating innovation, Nippon Paint VirusGuard, to 42 property management agencies in Malaysia as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts in safeguarding the health and wellness of Malaysian frontliners. This #RuangSelamat initiative was rolled out in partnership with the Malaysian Institute of Property and Facility Managers (‘MIPFM’), during its 9th Annual General Meeting.

Launched just last month, the Nippon Paint VirusGuard was tested against the Human Coronavirus, ATCC VR-740, strain 229E by Analytical Lab Group and utilises the Silver Ion Technology which demonstrated a 99.9% reduction in viral titer upon contact of the virus on the paint film. The human coronavirus (strain 229E) is the first coronavirus strain identified in the family of viruses, linked to common cold symptoms and respiratory tract infections. In addition to this, the Nippon Paint VirusGuard is also effective in mitigating the growth of viruses and bacteria such as the hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), influenza A (H1N1), Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

An environmentally-friendly coating solution, the Nippon Paint VirusGuard’s use of the Silver Ion Technology is effective in preventing the spread of viruses and bacteria through a three-step approach:

• deactivation of the function of viruses and bacteria

• reducing its ability to multiply and reproduce and

• inhibiting its growth which ultimately causes the death of the bacteria and viruses

“The contribution by Nippon Paint Malaysia is truly timely, as our property managers and security frontliners have remained resilient, working tirelessly throughout the different phases of the Movement Control Order (MCO). The Nippon Paint VirusGuard will be an added protection to further safeguard their management offices and guardhouses which gradually has high-traffic footfall. We are indeed honoured to collaborate with Nippon Paint Malaysia and are appreciative of their commitment in supporting the property industry,” said Sr Haji Adzman Shah Mohd Ariffin, President of Malaysian Institute of Property and Facility Managers (MIPFM).

Since the implementation of the Conditional Movement Control Order (‘CMCO’) and Recovery Movement Control Order (‘RMCO’) on 4 May and 10 June respectively, most businesses and organisations have resumed operations, while adhering to safety precautions and mandatory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as advised by the Malaysian government. While the number of active cases has reduced, the COVID-19 battle is far from over.

Nippon Paint provided over 600 litres of anti-viral and anti-bacterial paint to Property Management agencies in Malaysia.

Commercial spaces and even households are required to be sanitised frequently, while maintaining a well-ventilated and good level of indoor wellness. High touch surfaces are areas where there is a high risk of infectious agents including viruses and bacteria. Thus, high touch surfaces will need to be on top priority for frequent sanitisation. According to Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high touch surfaces include tables, door knobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks and more*.

“With the current COVID-19 pandemic still at bay, Nippon Paint recognises the importance of maintaining a safe and healthy environment. As such, we are certain that the VirusGuard innovation will benefit our partners in the property industry by keeping common areas safe, as we continue to navigate through the new normal. And as wall forms the largest surface within a given space, VirusGuard will be one mitigating factor against viruses and bacteria, while maintaining other important hygiene practices,” said Mr Matt Wong Say Peng, Senior Sales Manager of Nippon Paint Malaysia.

The collaboration with MIPFM is one of Nippon Paint’s efforts and continuous commitment in line with the company’s wellness journey of nearly two decades. Nippon Paint was the first coatings company who introduced Malaysia’s first odourless paint, and have since rolled-out various innovative solutions and partnerships such as the Green Choice Series, Child Wellness Range and Indoor Wellness Range, working closely with strategic partners and national associations to further educate Malaysians on the importance for healthy indoor space.

“As the market leader for over 50 years, we have always kept our finger on the pulse to ensure that we are responding to the market needs. The Nippon Paint VirusGuard is a testament of our continuous efforts in safeguarding the overall health and wellness of Malaysians. The collaboration with the Malaysian Institute of Property and Facility Managers is one of the many efforts that Nippon Paint has embarked on, to provide support, and further elevate the health and wellness of individuals, businesses and organisations during this unprecedented time”, said Datin Wong Meng Lee, Assistant General Manager of Marketing of Nippon Paint Malaysia.

For more information on the Nippon Paint VirusGuard, please visit, professional.nipponpaint.com.my/virusguard/keepingeveryonesafe

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2020

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