H+K merges with LUMOS PR in Malaysia as part of ASEAN growth strategy

Hill+Knowlton Strategies (H+K) Malaysia is integrating with LUMOS PR to form Hill+Knowlton LUMOS. The integrated entity will be led by Justin Then (pictured), founder and managing director of LUMOS PR.He was previously the managing director of H+K Malaysia from 2013 to 2017 before joining WeR1 Communications. During his time at H+K Malaysia previously, Then handled numerous clients, secured accounts and provided senior counsel to C-level executives from diverse sectors including oil and gas, quick service restaurants, technology and financial services. Following his departure, H+K named Michelle Tham managing director for Malaysia, in addition to her role as managing director for Singapore. A+M understands that Tham left the agency earlier this year.“I am excited and honoured to re-join the H+K family. The integration with H+K will enable LUMOS PR to realise its plan of expanding beyond Malaysia sooner than originally anticipated,” said Then. He is also confident that joining forces with H+K will accelerate its growth trajectory within Malaysia, bolstering its integrated communications solutions and helping its clients venture into burgeoning markets across the region.Meanwhile, HS Chung, H+K Asia cluster lead said that the “rapid growth and immense agility” exhibited by LUMOS PR since its inception around two years ago is a testament to Then’s talent and drive. “He understands the H+K way, and I am very pleased to have the opportunity to work with him again,” Chung said.Lars Erik Grønntun, global president at H+K said combining its Malaysia office with LUMOS PR is part of H+K’s growth strategy in the ASEAN region. “Significantly, this latest move strengthens our presence and capabilities in Malaysia, allowing us to better service the growing number of multinationals establishing ASEAN hub offices in the country,” he said.He added that the company is confident in Then’s skills and ability to lead Hill+Knowlton LUMOS. With the combined strengths of the two agencies, our Malaysia-based clients will benefit from deep local insight and the global reach of the H+K network,” he said.