05/03/2026

LYFE THURSDAY | MAR 5, 2026

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Malaysian Paper

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Trend beyond colours N IPPON Paint has spotlighted four macro-drivers that are resonating locally: As longevity becomes the new norm, Malaysians are redefining what it means to live well, shifting from the idea of “living comfortably” to “living well for longer”. Middle aged and younger adults today expect to enjoy longer lifespans than previous generations – and many are already taking o Four global mindsets influencing Malaysian homes, wellness, design in 2026–2027

reached a critical point. The nation now ranks as the second-worst country for work-life balance, with employees among the most overworked globally. As long hours, constant connectivity and rising pressures take their toll, Malaysians could turn inward, seeking homes that offer stillness, meaning and a sense of emotional grounding. To counter the relentless pace of modern Malaysian life, homeowners can choose colours that slow the senses and bring attention back to the present moment. Earthy,

Malaysia’s transition into an ageing society, increasing pressures from a fast-paced work culture, the country’s accelerating innovation momentum and the growing tension between digital immersion and the desire for real-world connection. These macro-drivers form the backbone of this year’s Trend Beyond Colours, each shaping a distinctive colour mindset that reflects how Malaysians can navigate wellness, mindfulness, innovation and digital balance in their daily lives. Its 2026–27 Trend Beyond Colours: Resonate was developed in collaboration with Colour Hive to capture the global mindsets shaping the way people live, work and design their spaces. While these trends reflect broad international shifts, they are relevant in Malaysia, where demographic, social and technological forces are reshaping lifestyles at an unprecedented pace. Growing focus on wellness and living well for longer Malaysia’s population is ageing rapidly, reshaping the nation’s social and lifestyle priorities. With life expectancy rising to 76.4 years and birth rates continuing to fall, more than 11% of Malaysians are now aged 60 and above, officially classifying Malaysia as an ageing society.

proactive steps to ensure their later years remain vigorous and healthy. This has fuelled a nationwide wellness wave, influencing everything from healthcare and lifestyle choices to the way Malaysians design their homes. There is a distinct demand for materials and colours that mirror this evolving

organic tones foster a feeling of stability, while tactile elements such as wicker paired with Postman Blue invite a quiet, mindful rhythm into the home. Warm walnut

textures, grounding soft shades such as Muted Emerald and Basket Straw create an atmosphere of calm intention – a space where Malaysians can breathe deeper, reconnect with themselves and find clarity amid the daily noise. Spirit of curiosity In a time of uncertainty, there is a hunger for breakthroughs. Malaysia is experiencing a surge of forward momentum: AI adoption among businesses has risen 35% in just one year. Coupled with more than US$6 billion (RM23.6 billion) in recent cloud and AI infrastructure investments, this energy reflects a nation racing towards new technological frontiers. From entrepreneurial ambition to the AI boom, Malaysians are chasing bold new possibilities. This drive can be expressed through sleek metallics and bold tones, symbolising ambition, progress and futuristic possibility. Palest Glow creates a juxtaposition of light and shadow when paired with lava ceramic glaze, capturing the glow on the horizon that many seek to reach. Blue Planet and Monsoon Light, when married with futuristic perforated metal panelling, embody an otherworldly coolness that pulls our gaze to the stars. Search for balance between offline, online world As the line between the offline and online world blurs, with Malaysians spending an average of eight hours a day on the internet, people are increasingly navigating a landscape where digital connection and real-life presence coexist, yet often leave them feeling alone together. Globally, in response, behaviour is tilting intentionally social: time once spent scrolling is moving into shared moments and experience first gatherings, prioritising shared participation and proving the most memorable connections are increasingly made in person. This duality sparks a palette of vibrant, youthful colours, embodying

Growing tension between digital immersion and the desire for real-world connection.

Malaysia is transitioning into an ageing society.

landscape, inspiring a palette of clean and soft pastels that echo themes of sustainability, balance and longevity. Reeded, fluted glass paired with Rose Thoughts and Lychee Float creates balanced tranquillity – while pale green marble married with Restful Spot and By The Pond invites thoughtful reflection amidst nature. Mindful in fast-moving world Malaysia’s fast-paced lifestyle has

Increasing pressures from a fast-paced work culture.

Creating Spaces that resonate The intersection of human behaviour, cultural signals and data driven colour choices provides a unique opportunity to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who inhabit them. Together, these four mindsets demonstrate how colour can express Malaysia’s evolving way of life – from wellbeing and mindfulness to innovation and human connection.

escapism immersive experiences that bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds with optimism and dynamic definition. Diving Pool and Glitzy Blue balance the ever-shifting hues of iridescent coating, while brushed stainless steel adds an immersive ambiguity to Fascination and Party Time, effectively blurring the lines between digital and physical. and

Malaysia’s accelerating innovation momentum.