SINGAPORE — Sandpiper Group has launched Sandpiper Research & Insights, a research firm specialising in supporting communications and public affairs practitioners. The firm is led by Craig Young (pictured) as interim managing director. He joins from Big Village, where he was CEO of Australia. He will be supported by an experienced team based across the region including veteran researcher Paul Chong leading brand, market, and reputation research and measurement; Alexander Thomas leading social and digital analytics; and Kelly Johnston and Iris Ng leading thought leadership and partnerships.

HONG KONG — The Marketing Society has added three new members to  its Hong Kong board. They are Hong Kong Tramways head of commercial and brand for Hong Kong Nixon Cheung;  Geraldine Chew, general manager, branding & corporate communications, K11 Concepts Limited; and Andreas Krasser, CEO, DDB Group Hong Kong.

KUALA LUMPUR — GO Communications is the appointed PR and communications agency for ANGKASA-X, a Malaysia-based technological-social inclusion company. GO will manage all PR and communications duties for the launch of the Malaysia-developed A-SEANSAT-PG1 satellite which was deployed on 27 June. The launch marks the beginning of a multifaceted initiative by ANGKASA-X creating and launching Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellites along the equator. These satellites will work together to bridge the digital divide by making internet connectivity services more accessible to millions in the region, particularly rural areas in Asia, while providing affordable remote sensing services.