Publicis Chemistry Malaysia has appointed David HK Tan as Creative Lead, partnering with Anna Ragen, Business Head of Publicis Chemistry Malaysia, as the agency enters what it describes as its next phase of growth.
Tan returns to the Publicis network after a 12-year tenure at Leo Malaysia, where he rose to Associate Creative Director. He will report to Emir Shafri, Chief Creative Officer, Publicis Groupe Malaysia.
During his time at Leo Malaysia, Tan was part of the team behind Heineken’s ‘Hidden in Plain Sight,’ which won a Bronze at Cannes Lions 2024, alongside five Grand Prix and three Gold wins across Spikes Asia, MAD Stars, ADFEST, and Kancils. Since 2023, he has consistently ranked among Malaysia’s top 10 most awarded creatives, according to the release.
Ragen stepped into an expanded role as Business Head in January 2025, having previously served as Social Media Director at Publicis Groupe Malaysia.
According to the release, Publicis Chemistry Malaysia has grown to a 50-strong team over two years, with a focus on content strategy, creative development, community management, and always-on engagement.
Publicis Chemistry was originally launched in Singapore in 2024 as a social-first agency within Publicis Groupe’s Power of One model.
“This team has been deliberately handpicked and curated to reflect where advertising is today, rooted in culture, moving at speed and built to stay ahead of constant change,” said Firzan Mulafer, Managing Director, Publicis Communications Malaysia.
“The momentum Publicis Chemistry is enjoying in Malaysia is a result of putting the right people together at the right time.”
“Returning to Publicis and back to Malaysia feels like a drop of forest green paint falling onto a brown canvas,” said Tan.
“Anna and her team understand how brands show up in culture, not just campaigns. Coming back to be part of that works hand-in-hand with what I am passionate about: ideas rooted in a ‘Humankind’ philosophy. I’m excited to help shape what Publicis Chemistry Malaysia becomes next.”
