KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 — Malaysia is facing a significant rise in mental health challenges, with the latest National Health and Morbidity Survey reporting over one million Malaysians aged 15 and above suffering from depression.
Cases among children and adolescents have more than doubled in recent years, highlighting an urgent need for accessible and effective wellness solutions.
Amid these challenges, Malaysians are seeking more accessible ways to nurture emotional well-being, not just through professional care, but also within the comfort of their homes.
One gentle yet powerful tool is colour therapy. More than just decoration, colours influence how we feel, heal, and connect.
How Colour Therapy Works: Science and Expert Insights
Prof Dr Norhisham, neuroscience and colour therapy expert, explains: “Colour plays a profound role in shaping our mental and emotional well-being.
“As electromagnetic waves, colours interact with the brain’s neural pathways, influencing mood, cognition, and physiological responses. When we’re exposed to certain hues, they can activate specific regions of the brain, helping to regulate emotional states and enhance mental clarity.
“For example, colours like violet stimulate the hypothalamus, helping with focus and emotional maturity.”
Practical Steps: Creating A Colour-Smart Home
Dr Norhisham further explains, “Supporting mental health at home does not require drastic changes; it starts with awareness and intentional choices. In Colour Vibration Therapy (CVT), every colour carries a unique vibration that can influence emotions, hormones, and even physiological balance.
“By choosing the right hues for each space, Malaysian families can create homes that not only look beautiful but also support emotional well-being.”
According to Dr Norhisham, these colours can be applied at home in simple ways:
Wong Meng Lee, assistant general manager of marketing, Nippon Paint Malaysia, shares, “We believe colour is about how people feel in their spaces, especially in times when emotional well-being is so vital.
“At Nippon Paint, our goal is to help families build more conducive and healthier homes through both colour and innovation.
“Products like our Spot-less Plus keep walls beautiful, stain-free and also feature anti-bacterial properties that promote a cleaner, safer indoor environment.
“When paired with calming or uplifting colours, homeowners can craft spaces that nurture both the mind and body.”
Through its colours and innovations, Nippon Paint aims to make these choices easier, offering inspiration, accessible tools, and trusted solutions that support healthier, more nurturing homes.
This World Mental Health Day, let’s remind ourselves that care begins at home. A fresh coat of colour may seem simple, but with Nippon Paint’s wide colour palette and wellness technologies, it can be a quiet act of healing and hope.


