AzkoNobel’s Jeremy Rowe on how colourful buildings in a city can transform a city’s residents too

SINGAPORE — Did you know that Malacca’s iconic Christ Church didn’t use to be bright red? It was originally painted white, like many of the Dutch-influenced buildings in the region.

According to local lore, it was painted red by the British to cover up betel-nut stains left by disgruntled locals. It’s also an example, said Jeremy Rowe, AkzoNobel’s managing director, Decorative Paints, South-east & South Asia, that illustrates the power of paint and colour.

“Cities come alive not only with the physical application of colour on buildings, but also with how ‘colourful’ the spirit of their inhabitants are. Through the Human Cities initiative, we are trying to make cities come alive, enabling people to make more of an emotional connection with where they live and work,” explained Rowe.

As a frequent business traveller, he also makes it a point to go for two to three family vacations in a year. “I’ll be travelling with my family to Bhutan next; we are very much looking forward to experiencing the unique culture, heritage and people there.”

Q: How do you think AkzoNobel’s Human Cities initiative helps boost tourism as it transforms cities and their structures?

A: Colour, when applied to exterior and interior spaces, imparts a distinctive identity; helps preserve heritage and lifts the spirit. Our actions are driven by a belief that successful cities are more ‘human’ urban environments and allow citizens to connect emotionally with their surroundings. The emotional connection and energy inhabitants enjoy would also be transferred to visitors.

Q: What are some of your favourite tourist attractions and why?

A: I particularly like the Stadhuys, otherwise also known as the Red Square in Malacca. The city has great food and is near enough for a quick weekend getaway.

Q: How about what are some of your favourite cities to visit because of their vibrancy and character?

A: Some memorable ones for me are Florence in Italy, Arequipa in Peru, Cape Town in South Africa, Paris in France and many cities in South-east Asia such as Hoi An, Jogjakarta, Siem Reap and Luang Prabang.

Q: What’s your travel advice to experience a city like a local?

A: Do a lot of walking! Nothing beats walking around a city to experience it, both in getting to know tourist attractions, and stopping at places that catch your interest. It’s also good exercise. Serene Lim