BEIJING — Influence Matters has opened an office in Indonesia, which will serve as the Chinese PR firm’s Southeast Asia hub. Managing director and founder Simon Vericel will lead the Indonesia operation, which will have a presence in Jakarta and Bali. The office’s work will focus on cross-border businesses, with particular attention to IT, fintech, smart industry and smart logistics. Meantime, Emily Xu (pictured) has been promoted to managing partner, with a focus on overseeing and developing the agency’s cross-border corporate communications business for international companies in China, and Chinese companies expanding in Asia. She has been with Influence Matters for six years.

COLOMBO — Members of Sri Lanka’s PR industry have launched their first professional association. The Public Relations Association of Sri Lanka addresses a long-felt need to give voice to Sri Lanka’s roughly 30-year-old PR industry, infuse high standards and develop the skills of professional practitioners, the organization said. The association's objectives include gaining recognition for PR practice and enhancing its influence, fostering high professional standards and ethical practices as a valued PR industry, and bringing together and representing public relations practitioners. Founder Rezani Aziz will serve as president. Other 2023-24 officers include Ashan Kumar (vice president), Rukshica Perera (secretary), Mushthak Ahamed (treasurer) and Druvinka Moraes (assistant secretary). Nimal Gunewardena will serve as an advisor to the executive board.

HONG KONG — Manulife Asia has appointed Sabrina Cheung as chief communications officer. Based in Hong Kong, Cheung will lead strategic communications, incorporating media relations, thought leadership, social media, colleague communications, content, and events, supporting Manulife Asia across all the markets in which it operates. She joins Manulife Asia from AXA, Asia and Africa where she was chief brand and communications officer. During this time, she built AXA’s reputation through award-winning campaigns, media and partnership outreach, and community investment as a champion for sustainability and employee well-being.