KUALA LUMPUR – In line with the growth of the global creative economic sector, there has been a rise in efforts to explore the creative use of spaces to increase economic growth and potential, as well as cultural appreciation – especially in high-density cities and tourism hubs.
Murals are among the chosen mediums to capture the historic and cultural layers of a place. Melaka, which is jointly inscribed with Penang as Historic Cities of the Straits of Melaka in Unesco’s world heritage list, has been using murals to transform unused and dilapidated spaces into vibrant attractions for locals and tourists alike. The value of these murals can be gauged by the increase in footfall to tired spots.
The My Kiehl’s Heritage artwork – a collaboration between Kiehl’s, AkzoNobel and Malaysian artist Fritilldea – for instance, has drawn vast crowds with its lively hues that reflect the vibrant culture, people and history of Melaka.
Originally painted in 2015, the mural commemorating the five World Heritage Sites in Malaysia added a burst of colour to what was once a dilapidated pathway and parking area.
My Kiehl’s Heritage is part of a series designed to make learning about heritage preservation engaging, with artwork that raises awareness for both current and future generations. Known for his bold, colourful doodles, Fritilldea stayed in a nearby lodge to fully immerse himself in the atmosphere of Melaka to create the mural.
His design blends local symbols and the state flower – “bunga kesidang” (vallaris glaba), with vivid contrasts to create striking imagery that captures the spirit of the city. Recently repainted by AkzoNobel, the mural’s vibrancy has been renewed, breathing new life into this iconic part of the city.
Tracy, a local business owner who runs Bikini Toppings, a coconut dessert shop near My Kiehl’s Heritage, remembers what the area was like before the mural.
“It was pretty much just a parking space. People would visit Jonker Street and that was it,” she recalls.
“But after the mural was painted, the whole vibe of the lane changed. It’s more beautiful, and has brought so many more people into this area.”
![Historical shophouses riverside 2 [Image by AkzoNobel]](https://www.scoop.my/canon/uploads/2024/09/Historical-shophouses-riverside-2-Image-by-AkzoNobel-1024x683.jpg)
The mural’s impact on local businesses has been tangible. Tracy mentions how the increase in foot traffic has helped her shop.
“We get more people walking past, and it’s easier to give directions now – people recognise the mural, and it helps them find us. Passers-by often stop for a photo at the mural, and we get more customers because of that.”
What sets this mural apart isn’t just its artistic value, but the way it integrates with Melaka’s historical charm. Melaka Historic City Council enhanced the area’s appeal by paving the surrounding walkway, making it more conducive for visitors to explore.
The mural’s longevity would not have been possible without the right materials. AkzoNobel played a key role in this by providing their Dulux Weathershield paint for the project. Designed to protect structural surfaces against harsh weather, fading and fungal growth, the paint ensures that the mural remains as vivid and fresh as the day it was completed, thus preserving both the art and the historical significance of the city where the mural is painted.
For AkzoNobel, the project is a testament to the power of art and painting to revitalise historic cities like Melaka and capture the heritage of the communities who call it home. – September 29, 2024
