NAFA picks new strategic communications and PR partner

The Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) has appointed RICE, A FINN Partners Company, as its strategic communications and public relations partner as the arts institution builds towards its NAFA100 vision.

The appointment follows a competitive tender, with the retainer taking effect in July 2026. RICE will work with NAFA's marketing and communications office to strengthen the institution's positioning and raise the visibility of its academic, artistic and cultural contributions in Singapore and the region.

The mandate spans strategic counsel, media relations, thought leadership and issues management.

Don't miss: FINN Partners acquires SG firm Rice Communications

As part of the partnership, RICE will also tap into its cultural insights and research practice to examine macro trends shaping Singapore and Southeast Asia, map audience responses and translate those insights into communications strategies for NAFA.

Wei Chong Chin, director, marketing and communications at NAFA, said the institution sees an opportunity to bring the depth of its work to wider audiences as it approaches its centenary.

"As we build towards our NAFA100 vision, we want our communications to reflect NAFA's purpose, strengths and the role it can play in shaping the future of arts and arts education," said Chin.

"RICE brings an external perspective and communications expertise that will help us tell that story with greater clarity and impact. We look forward to building this next chapter together," he added.

Meanwhile, James Brasher, managing partner, RICE, said NAFA's influence extends across the arts, education and society.

"As Southeast Asian arts and culture gain greater international attention, there is an opportunity to amplify the ideas, perspectives and expertise emerging from this region. We look forward to working with NAFA to strengthen its voice in these conversations," said Brasher.

The appointment comes amid a series of recent communications agency moves in Singapore. The Kallang Group recently named Burson as its communications agency following a competitive pitch, with the agency tasked with supporting its corporate and brand communications. The remit spans earned media, proactive media relations, corporate and executive thought leadership, as well as issues and crisis management.

In July, the Public Hygiene Council (PHC)retained Ninemer Communications as its public relations agency on record. Its remit covers strategic communications, media relations and editorial support for the council's public cleanliness initiatives, including the annual "Keep Singapore clean" campaign and bi-monthly "SG Clean Day" activations.

The agency activity also extends to the travel sector, with Klook Singapore appointing Mutant as its communications agency following a multi-agency pitch. Mutant will support Klook's efforts to strengthen its position as a trusted travel authority, with a focus on experiences, travel insights and emerging trends across Asia Pacific.

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