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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Muscovites can become volunteers for the portal “Our City”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Residents of the capital can become volunteers of the portal “Our City”. Since the beginning of the year, 800 active citizens have checked more than 42 thousand works that were carried out according to messages left on the portal.

    Muscovites have access to various topics for monitoring. For example, they can observe the condition of city charging stations for electric vehicles or city clocks, filling sandboxes, repairing mailboxes or replacing light bulbs in the entrance hall, assessing the content of car and bicycle parking lots, as well as bike rental points.

    How to get started volunteering

    Anyone, regardless of age or profession, can join the ranks of volunteers on the Our City portal and contribute to the development of the capital: a student, a pensioner, a teacher or a builder. To do this, you need to log in to the portal using your mos.ru account, go tosection “About the portal” and choose section “Volunteering”. After reviewing with the rules Andinstructions All that remains is to click on the button “I want to become a volunteer”.

    Then you need to select one or more tasks on the topics and addresses of interest, conduct a check within three days and take a photo of the results. The photo must be sent to the portal with a comment on the quality of the work performed. In the personal account, the volunteer will be able to track the task’s completion by city services.

    For each confirmation or refutation of the elimination of a defect identified by another user published on the portal, the volunteer will be awarded 50 points of the city loyalty program “A Million Prizes”. The points you receive can be donated to charity, used to top up your Troika card, your parking account in the Parking of Russia app, or exchanged for discounts in stores, pharmacies, and Moscow cultural institutions.

    Portal “Our City” was created in 2011 to improve the quality of life of Muscovites and the appearance of the capital with the active participation of the residents themselves. Over 13 years, the portal has helped resolve over 9.6 million issues, and is used by over 2.3 million city residents. The portal is developing Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow together with the State Institution “New Management Technologies”.

    Since the beginning of the year, the portal “Our City” has helped solve 1.4 million questions of MuscovitesRiver transport: a new subcategory has appeared on the portal “Our City”Feed on the main screen and new buttons: additional functions have appeared in the mobile application “Our City”

    The use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to improve the quality of life of city residents is in line with the objectives of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation” and the capital’s regional project “Digital Public Administration”. More information about this and other national projects being implemented in Moscow can be found find out here.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145626073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Digital accounting and computer vision: how Moscow is developing information services in the financial sector

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The capital has been developing information technologies in the field of public finance for more than 12 years. This was stated Elena Zyabbarova, Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Finance, at the panel discussion “The Digital Future of the Budget: Technologies and Efficiency” at the Moscow Financial Forum.

    “Today, each city sector has its own technological platform, on which both its management and the provision of services to city residents and other end users are built. And the sphere of public finances is no exception. Due to the creation of modern services, their integration with city and federal information systems, we have significantly increased the quality and speed of the budget process in Moscow, and in general, a colossal paradigm shift has occurred,” the head of the department said.

    In Moscow, digitalization has helped to get rid of paper document flow, create digital workplaces, increase the speed of payments and strengthen control over the use of budget funds. Big data processing systems have made it possible to conduct a detailed industry analysis of budget revenues, monitor the state of the economy and significantly increase the accuracy of assessing the income of the city treasury.

    The discussion participants emphasized that further digitalization is impossible without deepening integration between departmental information and analytical systems, developing unified standards for managing and accounting budget funds. Big data processing technologies and artificial intelligence algorithms are coming to the forefront today.

    The use of artificial intelligence algorithms significantly expands the capabilities of financiers: the machine can be trusted to carry out routine operations and free up the time of specialists for analytical work.Department of Finance of the City of Moscow already working service using computer vision when authorizing transactions of treasury support participants. In addition, the department is implementing algorithms for robotizing the formation and authorization of payment documents for payment of government contracts.

    A fundamentally new system has made it possible to unify budget accounting procedures in Moscow centralized budget accounting model. It enables accounting according to general rules using a single chart of accounts and document forms and at the same time in accordance with the specifics of various urban economic complexes. Digital accounting allows obtaining large data sets and comparing the financial and economic performance indicators of institutions.

    Together with the Federal Treasury of the Russian Federation Department of Finance of the City of Moscow is working on the implementation of customer-oriented services. This is the use of the Mir payment system for all types of social payments to residents of the capital and the creation of an automated payment system for city purchases of goods and services using fast payment technology.

    “In the future, budget management will be based on constant diagnostics of changing conditions. On the one hand, it will become fast and flexible, comfortable for all participants in the process, and on the other hand, it will eliminate possible errors as much as possible and provide a high level of security,” Elena Zyabbarova emphasized.

    The use of digital technologies to improve the quality of life of city residents is in line with the objectives of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation” and the Moscow regional project “Digital Public Administration”. More information about this and other national projects implemented in the capital can be found Here.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145637073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The project for the construction of a house under the renovation program in Babushkinsky District has been approved

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A four-section house will appear in Babushkinsky District under the renovation program. It will be built on Iskra Street. The construction project has already been approved, said the Chairman of the Moscow City Committee for Pricing Policy in Construction and State Expertise of Projects Ivan Shcherbakov.

    “The apartment building is planned to be built on the site of two vacated houses at the address: Iskry Street, Building 13, Buildings 2 and 3. It will be a four-section building of variable number of storeys with a non-residential first floor. The presented design documentation has been developed in accordance with modern technical regulations, norms, rules and safety standards,” Ivan Shcherbakov noted.

    The new building will be L-shaped. The entrances in the second and third sections will have double vestibules, and in the first and fourth — single ones. The first floor will house infrastructure facilities. The new building will have one-room, two-room and three-room apartments.

    Specialists will create a barrier-free environment for comfortable movement of all residents. For example, entrances to the residential part will be designed with a minimum difference between the level of the sidewalk and the floor of the lobby, and some apartments will be equipped specifically for people with limited mobility.

    “For the construction of this building with a total floor area of 25.9 thousand square meters, the Moscow Committee for Architecture has issued an urban development plan for a land plot of 1.4 hectares,” she added.

    Juliana Knyazhevskaya, Chairman of the Committee for Architecture and Urban Development of the City of Moscow.

    Previously Sergei Sobyanin reported, that 1.2 trillion rubles have been allocated in the draft budget for three years to implement the renovation program.

    Consultations on the property and help from movers: Muscovites received more than a million notifications from the super service “Moving under the renovation program”Over six thousand Muscovites will begin resettlement under the renovation program in September and October

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. In 2023 alone, 59 new buildings in the capital were handed over for settlement and the resettlement of more than 47 thousand people was ensured. Sergei Sobyanin ordered to doublethe pace of program implementation.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction rates and volumes. Over the past five years, within the framework of the federal project “Housing” of the national project “Housing and Urban Environment” the volume of construction and commissioning of residential properties in the capital has doubled – from three to five to seven million square meters per year. More information about this and other national projects being implemented in Moscow, you can find out here.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145649073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Agencies Continue To Monitor For Oil Sightings

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    JOINT NEWS RELEASE BETWEEN NEA, BCA, JTC, MPA, NPARKS, PUB, SDC, SFA AND SLA

    Singapore, 22 October 2024 – The clean-up of oil in the channel between Pulau Bukom and Bukom Kechil is progressing. The clearing of the remaining trapped oil within the containment booms in the channel and the cleaning of the stained rock bunds and infrastructure are targeted to be completed in the coming days.

    2       There are no other oil sightings at sea and ashore as at 3pm (Singapore time).

    3       National water agency PUB continues to monitor the seawater intakes at its desalination plants. Seawater quality readings remain normal.

    4       There are no reports of fish farms being affected by the oil leak.

    5      Agencies will continue to monitor for oil sightings.

    ~~ End ~~

    For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Public swimming pools

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹â€‹Following is a question by the Hon Doreen Kong and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):
     
    Question:

         Regarding public swimming pools under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the utilisation rates (set out by session for admission) and attendances of various public swimming pools in each of the past five years;

    (2) of the number of schools holding swimming galas at public swimming pools in the past five years;

    (3) of the expenditure on the staff salaries and benefits, operating costs and maintenance fees of public swimming pools in the past five years;

    (4) in respect of the public swimming pools with utilisation rates on the low side, whether the authorities will consider consolidating them with those public swimming pools in the neighbouring districts to increase the overall utilisation rates, thereby better meeting the demand of members of the public;

    (5) as there are views pointing out that the mode of leisure and entertainment of members of the public is constantly changing, whether the authorities have plans to upgrade facilities of public swimming pools and include more diversified entertainment elements (such as water parks and water play facilities), so as to attract members of the public of different age groups to use them; and

    (6) as some persons with disabilities (PWDs) have relayed that barrier-‍free facilities at some public swimming pools are inadequate, of the current situation of the provision of barrier-free facilities at public swimming pools; whether it will consider further increasing and upgrading the barrier-free facilities at public swimming pools by, for example, providing additional ramps, lanes for exclusive use by PWDs and so on, at the swimming pools to improve the inclusiveness of public swimming pools, thereby benefiting a wider group of members of the public?

    Reply:
     
    President,

         My reply to the questions raised by the Hon Doreen Kong is as follows:

    (1) As the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) does not maintain record of individual swimmer’s time of entry and exit at its public swimming pools, there is no information about the utilisation rate of its swimming pools at different periods of time. Details of the attendance of public swimming pools managed by the LCSD are set out at Annex I.

    (2) In the past five years, the number of schools that have hosted swimming galas in public swimming pools managed by the LCSD is as follows:
     

    Year
    2019
    2020
    2021
    2022
    2023

    Number
    234
    31
    30
    101
    231

    * In view of the situation of COVID-19, public swimming pools were closed during various periods from 2020 to 2022. Hence, the number of swimming galas held was lower.

    (3) In the past five years, the expenditure on staff remuneration and fringe benefits as well as the operating cost of public swimming pools are as follows:
     

    Year
    2019-20
    2020-21
    2021-22
    2022-23
    2023-24

                              ($ million)

    Expenditure on staff remuneration and fringe benefits
    660.06
    660.06
    660.06
    686.17
    720.30

    Operating cost
    520.34
    513.36
    532.91
    563.55
    596.61

         â€‹As for repair and maintenance, multiple works departments are responsible for the maintenance and repair of various recreation and sports facilities under the LCSD. Costs of works such as repair, maintenance, improvement and refurbishment of facilities, as well as expenses on equipment procurement, are included in the overall expenditure of those works departments. The LCSD does not have a breakdown of the repair and maintenance costs of public swimming pools.

    (4) and (5) In order to cater for the public demand for different swimming pool facilities, the number and type of facilities as well as design and layout of public swimming pools vary. At present, 25 of the public swimming pools under the LCSD (such as Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, Hammer Hill Road Swimming Pool and Tseung Kwan O Swimming Pool etc) offer water play equipment in addition to conventional swimming facilities, addressing the needs of different age groups and allowing more citizens to experience the fun of aquatic activities.
     
         The selection of location, types of facilities offered as well as design and layout of each swimming pool must meet the needs of the public (especially the local residents) for swimming facilities. The LCSD will optimise the use of resources according to the actual situation, closely monitor the utilisation of public swimming pools and take into account different factors, including the impact on local residents, future demographic changes and the views of relevant district councils, when reviewing the future planning of its facilities.

    (6) At present, among the 46 public swimming pools under the LCSD, 36 (about 78 per cent) are equipped with accessible lifting platforms or ramps to assist persons with disabilities in entering the pools. A list of these swimming pools is at Annex II. As for the remaining public swimming pools where accessible lifting platforms or ramps have yet to be installed, there are other pools equipped with relevant facilities within the same district. Persons with disabilities may consider visiting another pool in the same district for the swimming facilities thereat according to their needs.
     
         All leisure venues of the LCSD built after 2008 (including public swimming pools) are in compliance with the requirements of the “Design Manual: Barrier Free Access 2008”, including the provision of ramps or accessible lifting platforms as far as possible to assist persons with disabilities in entering the pools. As for the leisure venues built before 2008 (including public swimming pools), subject to geographical environment, allocation of resources, architectural conditions and technical feasibility, the LCSD will arrange for relevant improvement works to be carried out, such as providing facilities for barrier-free access, accessible toilets and parking spaces, as well as adding facilities such as tactile guide paths, Braille signage, Braille and tactile maps, for the convenience of the visually impaired, in the course of renovation or conversion so that persons with disabilities can also enjoy swimming pool facilities provided by the LCSD.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Pui-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):Question:      Regarding the crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules, will the Government inform this Council:(1) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of pedestrian casualties in traffic accidents in the past five years, with a breakdown by cause of accident;(2) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of traffic contraventions involving pedestrians in the past five years and, among such cases, the respective numbers of verbal warnings given and prosecutions instituted (including summonses) by the Police (set out by relevant contravention);(3) whether it has analysed the reasons for pedestrians not complying with the traffic rules for crossing roads, for example, whether such acts were caused by objective factors such as road design, traffic system, etc; if it has, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(4) of (i) the 10 traffic black spots in Hong Kong with the highest number of traffic accidents involving pedestrian casualties and the number of accidents involved, and (ii) the 10 traffic black spots in Hong Kong with the highest number of traffic contraventions involving pedestrians and the respective numbers of jaywalking cases in the past five years; in respect of such traffic black spots, of the improvement measures put in place by the authorities, including whether they will consider extending the duration of green signal of pedestrian traffic lights or adding footbridges; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(5) given that the Police conducted a number of large-scale territory-wide law enforcement operations against jaywalking in the past, whether the authorities have assessed the effectiveness of such operations; whether they will consider increasing the amount of penalties for pedestrians who do not comply with traffic rules for crossing roads; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and(6) how the authorities will further step up efforts in publicity and education on road safety, so as to enhance pedestrians’ awareness on road safety?Reply:President,     Having consulted the Transport Department (TD) and the Hong Kong Police Force (Police) in respect of crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules, my reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Chan Pui-leung is as follows:(1) and (2) The numbers of pedestrian casualties by casualty contributory factors and degree of injury in traffic accidents as well as the enforcement figures on pedestrian offences by the Police in the past five years are provided in Annex 1 and Annex 2 respectively. On the whole, from 2020 to 2023, the yearly casualty number ranged between about 2 300 and 2 800. The pedestrian casualty number involved in traffic accidents happened in the first half of 2024 has decreased by about 10 per cent compared to the same period in 2023. This reflects that the recent enhanced safety improvement measures are effective. The Government will continue to implement relevant road safety enhancement measures. The ratio of pedestrian contributory factors to accidents has decreased from about 30 per cent in 2020 to 22 per cent in the first nine months in 2024.(3) and (4) The Government has been striving to provide a safe, reliable and efficient traffic and transport system, including the provision of appropriate pedestrian crossing facilities during the planning and design of pedestrian network, for pedestrian to cross the road conveniently at suitable locations. The Government also proceeds with various walkability enhancement and pedestrian safety improvement measures at suitable locations, which include footpath widening, provision or improvement of pedestrian crossings, provision of raised crossings, provision of additional traffic signs and road markings, setting up of low speed limit zones, replacement of Belisha beacons at zebra crossings as well as installation of auxiliary devices that project a red light at signalised junctions. These measures improve pedestrians’ walking experience on one hand and enhance road safety on the other.     According to the quarterly blacksite locations published by the TD, the top 10 pedestrian blacksites and the numbers of accidents happened thereat in the past five years are provided in Annex 3. Relevant departments do not have statistics of the reason(s) of pedestrian offences. Having said that, the Police make reference to the information on accident blackspots when prioritising enforcement actions and publicity/education activities at district levels.(5) Road safety is one of the Commissioner’s Operational Priorities of the Police. Apart from conducting territory-wide enforcement actions against pedestrian offences periodically, the Police will closely monitor the issue of pedestrian safety and continue to adopt multi-pronged approach through publicity, education and enforcement to strengthen public awareness on pedestrian safety, thereby reducing traffic accidents.      From the second half of 2023 to September 2024, the Police have co-ordinated a total of three territory-wide thematic operations on pedestrian safety. With the concerted efforts of the Police and stakeholders, the number of accidents involving pedestrians as a whole in the first three quarters of 2024 has dropped, which is detailed as follows:      The Government will keep in view the penalties for traffic offences and will propose amendments timely so that the relevant penalties can maintain their deterrence to safeguard pedestrian safety.(6) The Government attaches great importance to road safety and has been closely collaborating with the Road Safety Council to promote road safety amongst different road users (including pedestrians) through various publicity and education channels. Examples include production and broadcasting of television and online publicity video clips, publication and distribution of Road Safety Bulletins and leaflets, affixing publicity covers on traffic signal controllers, conducting road safety talks in primary and secondary schools and elderly centres, disseminating information on social media platforms, to educate different road users about road safety matters that require their attention, such as obeying traffic rules and traffic signals, proper use of crossing facilities, following the Road Crossing Code and staying alert at all times. We will continue to carry out publicity and education activities to enhance road users’ awareness on safety.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Delivering local priorities in Brisbane

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government continues to boost the liveability of Oxley, with federal funding unlocking a pipeline of local road and community infrastructure projects.

    Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain MP joined Federal Member for Oxley, Milton Dick MP on Tuesday to inspect the progress of projects in the Brisbane area, and to discuss the city’s priorities. 

    Brisbane City Council will receive more than $103 million in Roads to Recovery funding over the next five years – a boost of over $44.4 million thanks to the Albanese Government. 

    This will pave the way for local road upgrades that will improve safety and reduce traffic congestion, building on improvements already delivered.

    Traffic lights and a pedestrian crossing were recently installed at the Blunder Road and Wallaroo Road intersection – thanks to over $1.5 million in federal funding.

    Over $4.1 million in federal funding supported the major upgrade to the Dandenong Road and Sirocco Street intersection, with new traffic lights improving traffic flow and safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

    Through Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, Brisbane City Council is receiving over $11.7 million for high-impact local projects.

    As part of this, over $7.7 million is supporting repairs and upgrades to 29 community facilities, including new retaining walls along the rugby and cricket fields at the Forest Lake Junior Rugby Union Club.

    Work is also underway on upgrades to aquatic centres across Brisbane, with $4 million from the Albanese Government supporting new lighting, heat pumps and switchboards, along with the installation of solar equipment, batteries and smart energy monitoring.

    These upgrades – fully funded by the Albanese Government, will reduce energy consumption and emissions, and support Brisbane City Council to reinvest money saved into other important local services. 

    Nationally, the Albanese Government is delivering significant funding increases to support local councils deliver their priority projects. 

    The Roads to Recovery program is progressively increasing from $500 million to $1 billion per year, the Road Black Spot Program is increasing from $110 million to $150 million per year, and $200 million per year is available under our Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Oxley, Milton Dick MP:

    “It’s wonderful to welcome Minister McBain to Oxley to highlight how we’re partnering with Brisbane City Council to turn federal funding into local results – from making our local roads safer and easier to navigate, to ensuring our sporting facilities are fit-for-purpose.

    “With a population of over 2.4 million people, Brisbane is one of Australia’s largest and busiest cities – and I’m so proud to have secured funding increases for projects in this area that are supporting local jobs and uplifting our economy.”  

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

    “Milton Dick has a strong record of delivering for communities in Oxley, which is why it was terrific to join him in Brisbane to see high-impact local projects underway, and to discuss what support is needed for future priorities.

    “Our funding increases to Brisbane City Council and strengthened partnership will ensure that we continue to deliver the projects that matter to people in Oxley – whether that’s upgrading the local roads they take to work, or improving the sports fields their kids train on after school.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatality following assault, Onehunga

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm that a person has died following an assault on a bus in Onehunga, reported at 2.30pm this afternoon.

    Police are making urgent enquiries to locate the offender who has been identified through CCTV footage.

    Parts of Captain Springs Road and Church Road remain closed while enquiries are underway.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister clears up incident information

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Children Karen Chhour wants to clarify the facts following Chloe Swarbrick’s questions in Parliament this afternoon about the incident at Korowai Manaaki this week.

    “Claims that young people there didn’t have access to food, are false,” Children’s Minister Karen Chhour says.

    “Claims that young people there didn’t have access to fresh air, are false.

    “The only young people who have been denied time outdoors, are those who did not participate in the incident, because staff had to keep them inside while they cleaned up the damage caused by the young people on the roof and made the place safe for them.

    “The young people on the roof did not make any requests or demands to Oranga Tamariki staff.

    “I agree these young people should be taken seriously. That is why there will be consequences for their actions.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SED expresses deep sorrow over passing of Mr Michael Suen

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, today (October 23) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Secretary for Education, Mr Michael Suen, and extended her heartfelt condolences to his family.

         Mr Suen was appointed as the Secretary for Education in 2007, a post he held until June 2012.

         Dr Choi said, “Mr Suen provided dedicated services to Hong Kong people and the Government for decades, making tremendous contributions and earning respect from various sectors of the community. During his tenure as the Secretary for Education, he formulated and implemented a number of important education policies, including promotion of the development of higher education institutions and broadening of multiple study pathways, implementation of the New Academic Structure for Senior Secondary Education and Higher Education (namely the ‘334’ academic structure), the fine-tuning of medium of instruction for secondary schools and implementation of small class teaching in primary schools, benefiting students and making far-reaching impacts.

          “Mr Suen spared no effort and was dedicated in everything. He often communicated with frontline education personnel in person and resolved problems with wisdom. He was a role model for colleagues.

          “The Education Bureau is deeply saddened by his passing. We will fondly remember him.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Activities in celebration of the National Day and exhibitions relating to patriotic education

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Yung and a written reply by the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):
     
    Question:
     
         Regarding the activities in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the exhibitions relating to patriotic education organised by the HKSAR Government this year, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the following information on the aforesaid celebratory activities: (i) the names of the activities, (ii) the organising government departments, (iii) the dates on which the activities were held (with commencement and end dates) and (iv) the numbers of participants, and set out the breakdown in the table below; and

    (i)
    (ii)
    (iii)
    (iv)

     
     
     
     

           
    (2) whether it has assessed the overall effectiveness of the various exhibitions relating to patriotic education (including the national security exhibition and the “Glorious Voyage: Splendid Achievements of the People’s Republic of China in Its 75 Years” exhibition series at the Hong Kong Museum of History, as well as the exhibitions at the Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence) in terms of the attendances, the level of satisfaction, etc; whether it will continuously step up promotion of such exhibitions through more innovative means, so as to attract more members of the public and tourists to visit them?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Having consulted the relevant bureaux and departments, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Chan Yung is as follows:
     
         This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. To celebrate this important day with members of the public, the HKSAR Government has spared no effort in planning and launching a wide array of rich, diverse and creative celebratory activities before and after the National Day featuring the spirit of patriotism, so as to share the joy of the National Day with the public, while at the same time promote patriotism.
     
         Regarding part (1) of the question, the HKSAR Government and various sectors of the community has organised more than 400 celebratory activities before and after the National Day. Details of the events are available on the dedicated website (www.nationalday75.gov.hk). As at October 16, 2024, 38 amongst the 71 highlight celebratory events organised by various policy bureaux and departments had been completed. Please refer to the Annex for details.
     
         Regarding part (2) of the question, the HKSAR Government has organised a number of exhibitions with elements of patriotism, for example, the thematic exhibition “Brothers in Arms: War of Resistance Activities of the East River Column in Shenzhen and Hong Kong” exhibited at the Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence since September 4, 2024, and the “Glorious Voyage: Splendid Achievements of the People’s Republic of China in Its 75 Years’ Exhibition Series” at the Hong Kong Museum of History and Hong Kong Science Museum since September 27, 2024, etc. Moreover, the covered walkway of Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park is currently hosting the “Trendsetting Travel in China” display to showcase national achievements, whereas the thematic book exhibition “The Glorious and Momentous Days – Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China” is being held at various public libraries and the Hong Kong Museum of History. These exhibitions cover various themes across different areas, presenting a comprehensive display of the country’s development. Overall speaking, the exhibitions are effective and the response of the public is overwhelming. As at October 15, the exhibitions organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) have recorded over 300 000 visitors. The LCSD will continue to promote the exhibitions through various channels including online media, and organise related education and extension programmes to attract more locals and visitors.
     
         In addition, the National Security Exhibition Gallery, located at the Hong Kong Museum of History, is the first dedicated exhibition in Hong Kong to systematically introduce national security. It has been opened to the public for visits with free admission since August 7 this year and has already welcomed 100 000 visitors in just two months. This shows that the community attaches great importance to and is supportive for national security education. Visitors have given very positive feedback about the exhibition hall, and consider the exhibition contents rich, diverse, and educational. In order to attract more locals and visitors, the National Security Exhibition Gallery will roll out thematic exhibitions in mid-2025 for the 10th National Security Education Day and the 5th anniversary of the promulgation of the Hong Kong National Security Law.
     
         The HKSAR Government is truly grateful for the staunch support received from various sectors of the community and the general public, without such, these many celebratory events would not have completed so successfully. This fully reflects the passion and love from all Hong Kong citizens for our country. The HKSAR Government will continue to press ahead with perseverance and determination, bring together the community forces, and take on the responsibility to lead Hong Kong to a brighter future.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ2: Developing cruise tourism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ2: Developing cruise tourism
    LCQ2: Developing cruise tourism
    *******************************

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Yuet-ming and a reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23): Question:      It has been reported that the number of cruise ships arriving in Hong Kong this year is far lower than that in Singapore, and a related association has also withdrawn from Hong Kong. On the other hand, the Government mentioned in the Policy Address delivered last year that it would review the development of cruise tourism economy and announce an action plan in the first half of 2024. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) of the number of ship calls in Hong Kong in each of the past five years, as well as the numbers of inbound and outbound cruise passenger trips, and the age distribution and per capita spending of passengers; (2) whether further plans in the short, medium and long terms are in place to attract cruise ships to visit Hong Kong and consider Hong Kong as homeport; and (3) of the positioning of and division of functions between the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (KTCT) and the Ocean Terminal, and how the occupancy rates of the commercial floor space of the two terminals compare with each other; as there are views that when compared with the Ocean Terminal, there is much room for improvement in respect of transport connectivity between the KTCT and the shopping malls nearby as well as the luxury goods and commercial contents of such shopping malls, how the Government will enhance the transport connectivity between the KTCT and the surrounding scenic spots and key shopping malls in the short term? Reply: President,      After the pandemic, the Government has been making all-out efforts in promoting the recovery of the tourism industry, amongst which Hong Kong’s cruise tourism is actually one of the work priorities. With the concerted efforts of the industry and the Government, a total of 30 cruise lines are scheduled to visit Hong Kong in 2024, representing an increase of 12 over 2023 and comparable to pre-pandemic levels. It is estimated that the non-local cruise passenger throughput this year will increase to about 330 000, representing an increase of 50 per cent compared with 220 000 the year before. Moreover, attributable to the efforts we have made, several new cruise lines will have their first ship calls in Hong Kong in the coming year, and new itineraries will also be launched by cruise lines to attract a more diverse sources of customers.           We sought views extensively from relevant local and international stakeholders of the cruise industry earlier on the development of cruise tourism in Hong Kong, and formulated an action plan for further promoting cruise visits to Hong Kong. It will be published together with the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 by the end of this year.           Having consulted the Development Bureau and the Transport and Logistics Bureau, below is the reply to the question raised by the Hon Chan Yuet-ming: (1) The total numbers of ship calls and cruise passenger throughputs in Hong Kong in the past five years are at Annex. Separately, according to a survey conducted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) in 2023, the onshore per capita spending of inbound cruise passengers embarking or disembarking in Hong Kong was about $3,000. Nevertheless, the contribution of cruise tourism to Hong Kong’s economy is not restricted to the spending by passengers, but also includes the expenses incurred in Hong Kong by the cruises (such as the expenses of arranging shore excursions or transport for passengers, reprovisioning for the cruises, berthing at terminals and hiring of ground crew members), as well as the onshore spending of crew members on leave.  We do not maintain statistics on the age distribution of cruise passengers. (2) The Tourism Commission (TC) and HKTB will continue to promote the development of Hong Kong’s cruise tourism through various measures, attracting cruises to visit Hong Kong, and leveraging Hong Kong as the homeport for passengers to start or complete their cruise voyages. Those measures include: (a) developing new cruise itineraries and visitor source markets. For instance, introducing cruise itineraries departing from the Mainland, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand to Hong Kong in the coming months; and stepping up the promotion and publicity of fly-cruise and rail-cruise packages; (b) facilitating cruise lines in making proper planning for cruises visiting Hong Kong, and providing them with various support and concessions, with a view to encouraging cruise lines to increase the number of ship calls, make overnight calls and leverage Hong Kong as the homeport; (c) supporting the tourism trade in fully leveraging Hong Kong’s unique tourism elements to design different featured shore excursions. Cruise passengers visiting Hong Kong this week will be arranged to join the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, thereby creating synergy between cruise tourism and mega events. In addition, a night time itinerary of Hong Kong classic tram tour has recently been selected by a cruise line as one of its top 10 shore excursions in the world; (d) providing facilitation for inbound passengers who start their cruise voyage in Hong Kong, such as baggage delivery services for debarking cruise passengers to enable them to explore the city hassle-free. TC also co-ordinates ship calls with a large number of Mainland visitors, streamlining the boundary crossing arrangements, and arranging coaches for them to travel direct to the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (KTCT) in just 40 minutes; (e) seizing the new opportunities brought about by cruise-related policies in the Mainland, such as the policy of allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships at provinces along the country’s coastline, and the measures allowing Mainland visitors to travel to Hong Kong in transit to join international cruise itineraries involving port-of-call in Mainland cruise ports, thereby attracting international cruise lines to develop more cruise itineraries covering Hong Kong and Mainland ports; and (f) proactively participating in major industry events in the Mainland and overseas, and collaborating with ports in the Mainland and the Asian region to jointly promote Asia’s cruise tourism in these events. (3) Though complementing each other, the development and functions of the KTCT and the Ocean Terminal (OT) in Tsim Sha Tsui are not entirely the same and a direct comparison cannot be made between them. The OT was completed in 1966. Due to limitations in respect of water depth and clearance facilities etc, it can only accommodate small to medium-sized cruise ships with a gross tonnage of fewer than 90 000 tons and a smaller passenger capacity. Its floor area is primarily used for commercial purposes. As Tsim Sha Tsui has developed into one of Hong Kong’s premier shopping and sightseeing hot spots, passengers joining cruise voyages there can also be benefited. As for the KTCT, it is an infrastructure specifically built for the berthing of mega-size cruise ships and is able to accommodate simultaneously two mega-size cruise ships with a gross tonnage of up to 220 000. The terminal provides sufficient space and facilities for handling a large number of inbound and outbound passengers as well as their embarkation and disembarkation within a short period of time, but only has a small ancillary commercial area. The KTCT commenced operation in phases from mid-2013, and since 2015 and 2017 respectively, it has already surpassed the OT in terms of annual passenger throughput and the number of ship calls.      Upon getting onshore, cruise passengers may either join shore excursions with connecting transport arrangements provided by cruise lines or local travel agents, or travel to destinations by public transport. The KTCT is being part of the Kai Tak Development (KTD). With the gradual completion of the traffic network and commercial facilities within the KTD, cruise passengers will be provided with greater convenience and more options for shopping and sightseeing. Those options include the major retail facility adjacent to Kai Tak MTR Station opened in September last year and another commercial project comprising a large department store scheduled for opening in November this year. In addition, the Kai Tak Sports Park, to be opened in the first quarter of next year, will not only provide over 700 thousand square feet of retail and catering facilities, but also venues for hosting various types of mega sports, cultural and recreational events, thereby creating synergy effects with the KTCT.           There are currently four regular franchised bus routes serving the KTCT, with three of them connecting Kai Tak Station. Subject to demand, an additional special bus route directly connecting the station will also be provided by public transport operator during the berthing of cruise ships. The Transport Department has also planned to provide two additional franchised bus routes, one of them providing connecting services to Kai Tak Station via Sung Wong Toi Station, while another providing express services to Hung Hom and Tsim Sha Tsui direct.      Thank you, President.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:55

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man arrested in east London as Met tackles criminals who target parcel delivery drivers

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been arrested in an intelligence-led operation as part of the Met’s ongoing response to thefts and robberies from parcel delivery vans and drivers.

    At around 14:30hrs on Tuesday, 22 October, officers based in Newham supported by Flying Squad colleagues stopped a car in High Street South, East Ham. The driver, a man aged in his 50s, was arrested on suspicion of theft from a parcel delivery van in addition to failing to stop for police and driving offences.

    He was found to be in possession of a number of parcels which are believed to have been stolen less than 30 minutes earlier from a parcel delivery van in Newham. The driver of the van had briefly left his vehicle to deliver a parcel, when three males broke into the van and made off with a number of packages.

    Enquiries are ongoing to locate the two outstanding suspects.

    In seeking to evade arrest, the arrested man’s vehicle collided with three police vehicles. Thankfully no officer was injured. The man was taken to hospital as a precaution due to injuries sustained during the collisions.

    DCI Laura Hillier, Specialist Crime, said: “A team of police officers, including specialist Met Taskforce and Flying Squad detectives, are continuing an operation to tackle crime against parcel delivery firms and their staff.

    “As one suspect found out this afternoon, we are using innovative tactics and dedicating significant resources to identify those believed to be responsible and arrest them.

    “Anyone with information about people who commit these offences is urged to call 101 or to remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers and quote Operation Soslink.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Majority of NZ researchers see Māori Indigenous knowledge as relevant to their work – but there is a gender divide

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katharina Ruckstuhl, Associate Professor in Indigenous Economy, University of Otago

    Getty Images

    While the New Zealand government plans to review 28 pieces of legislation with a view to changing or repealing references to the Treaty of Waitangi, the science sector is embracing engagement with Māori and leading the way in linking science and Indigenous knowledge at a national scale.

    We surveyed 316 researchers from research organisations across New Zealand on their engagement with Māori and their attitudes towards mātauranga Māori (Indigenous knowledge system). We found the majority agree engagement is important and mātauranga Māori is relevant to their research.

    Our preliminary findings show most of the surveyed researchers engaged with Māori to some degree in the past and expect to keep doing so in the future. A majority agreed mātauranga Māori should be valued on par with Western science.

    New Zealand is not alone in seeing Indigenous knowledge as complementary. Over the past few decades, several international projects engaged Indigenous knowledge systems to help solve pressing local and global problems. This includes traditional Aboriginal burning the reduces the risk of wildfires and sustainable water management.

    But New Zealand has been at the forefront of developing a nationwide approach through the 2007 Vision Mātauranga policy. This science-mātauranga connection has given New Zealand a global lead in how to meaningfully and practically mobilise science and Indigenous knowledge at a national scale.

    In contrast, the US only recently developed its national Indigenous science policy.

    Merging knowledge systems

    The merging of Indigenous and Western knowledge is particularly important in the high-tech innovation field. Here, New Zealand’s approach is starting to have real impacts, including supporting innovations and capabilities that would not have happened otherwise.

    Through years of engagement with the research and innovation sector, Māori are increasingly expecting the sector to work differently. This means both engaging beyond the laboratory and being open to the possibility that science and mātauranga Māori together can create bold innovation. Examples include supporting Māori businesses to create research and development opportunities in high-value nutrition, or using mātauranga to halt the decline of green-lipped mussels in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

    Mātauranga Māori has been key to restoring green-lipped mussels at Ōhiwa Harbour in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
    Getty Images

    Some media reports give the impression of a divided research community when it comes to mātauranga Māori. There have also been anecdotal reports suggesting scientists feel “pressured” to include “irrelevant” mātauranga Māori in science applications to win funding.

    We questioned whether this divide was real and as widespread as was being reported. We investigated how non-Māori researchers view engagement and collaboration, in particular the role of mātauranga Māori within that engagement.

    We examined the responses of the 295 non-Māori scientists in our survey and found 56% agreed mātauranga Māori should be valued on par with Western science. Only 25% disagreed. Moreover, 83% agreed scientists had a duty to consult with Māori if the research had impacts on them.

    However, there was a significant gender difference: 75% of women compared to 44% of men agreed mātauranga Māori should be valued on par with science. Only 8% of women disagreed with that statement compared to 34% of men.

    Gender differences

    As social scientists researching New Zealand’s innovation system, these results quantified our earlier observations in two important respects.

    First, it seems that exposing researchers to engagement with Māori communities may create a more open attitude to mātauranga Māori. A key aspect of the past few years has been to broaden the science sector’s engagement with various communities, including Māori.

    The Vision Mātauranga policy has been explicit about this in the innovation sector and research and development areas. It appears likely this approach has, at least for some non-Māori researchers, created an openness to consider mātauranga Māori as an equivalent, although different, knowledge framework.

    This policy push and Māori community pull has seen scientists in this survey overwhelmingly agree that Māori should be consulted about the impacts research may have on their communities.

    Second, while we disagree with the anecdotal evidence that the science community as a whole is split when it comes to mātauranga and engagement with Māori, our results suggest there is a difference between genders. Women researchers in this survey are very positive when it comes to valuing mātauranga Māori, whereas men are relatively less so. We need to study this more deeply to find out why this might be the case.

    Shifts in how researchers work

    New Zealand’s science, research and innovation sector is in the middle of a structural transition with reviews of its priorities, policy, funding and organisational arrangements.

    While central government re-arrangements can happen relatively quickly, the interface between the laboratory, community and industry can take years to adjust. Embedding new practices is complex and not easily done.

    The 2007 Vision Mātauranga policy was initially slow, uneven and bumpy in its implementation. But our results suggest its impact has accelerated over the past few years. This includes recognising that working alongside different knowledge systems is valuable for innovation.

    Whatever New Zealand’s current restructure of the science sector prioritises, the way researchers work has changed. New Zealand is now at the forefront of global shifts when it comes to links between Indigenous knowledge and science.

    Anecdotes aside, accelerating the engagement between Māori and the science sector will be key to delivering the impact Māori and wider New Zealand expect.

    Katharina Ruckstuhl received funding from Science for Technological Innovation, National Science Challenge.

    Madeline Judge received funding from Science for Technological Innovation, National Science Challenge.

    Urs Daellenbach received funding from Science for Technological Innovation, National Science Challenge.

    – ref. Majority of NZ researchers see Māori Indigenous knowledge as relevant to their work – but there is a gender divide – https://theconversation.com/majority-of-nz-researchers-see-maori-indigenous-knowledge-as-relevant-to-their-work-but-there-is-a-gender-divide-241239

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Health envoy along Belt and Road

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    In the following video, Zhong Shuming, a researcher and engineer at Neusoft Medical Systems Co. Ltd. based in Northeast China, recounts how her company has been exploring ways to make advanced medical devices more accessible in China and globally.
    Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation.ChinaNews App Download

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU launched a pilot computing cluster of the Lavrentyev supercomputer center

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    The first stage of the computing cluster segment of the Lavrentyev supercomputer center has been launched at Novosibirsk State University. The segment is located in the NSU academic building, and will later be located on the premises of the NSU research center, which is one of the facilities the second stage of the modern campus of NSU. With a computing power of 360 teraflops (trillions of floating-point operations per second), it surpasses all similar servers in academic institutions beyond the Urals. The new cluster is designed to work with large language models and generative artificial intelligence.

    — The Lavrentyev SCC is an important part of the university development strategy, which involves the creation of a modern computing infrastructure based on NSU. The launch of the pilot cluster is a significant step towards achieving this goal. The Lavrentyev SCC will become a center for collective use and will be in demand by a wide variety of specialists, and will also be useful for processing large scientific data, — commented the rector of NSU, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk.

    It is planned that the Lavrentyev supercomputer center will be fully operational in 2026. The maximum computing power will be 10 petaflops (quadrillion floating-point operations per second). The first stage of the Lavrentyev SCC, which was launched at NSU, will already allow solving a number of important research and applied problems.

    — We will use it to practice the application of large language models to real-world devices, including industrial artificial intelligence, transport, and unmanned aircraft systems. It is possible that swarm technologies will also be part of our work in the future.yu1sch. But first, we must provide a separate device with minimal intelligence, and then develop algorithms for their interaction with each other in order to solve common problems, said Alexey Okunev, director Institute of Intelligent Robotics NSU.

    Among the first projects for which the computing power of the new cluster will be used are projects implemented in the interests of industrial partners within the NSU Research Center for Artificial Intelligence. In particular, we are talking about various video analytics sensors developed by order of Rostelecom — these are transport detectors, detectors of non-standard behavior for schools, etc.

    — This server is equipped with graphic accelerators that allow for multiple parallel calculations, it has the necessary amount of graphic video memory so that we can use modern large language models of the ChatGPT and GigaChat level, fine-tune and customize them to solve specific problems. The term “non-standard behavior” is quite difficult to formulate algorithmically. The task of recognizing non-standard types of behavior and preventing them can be solved using advanced artificial intelligence technologies, which can be provided to us by large language models. This should increase the accuracy and robustness (resistance to interference) of our models, — Alexey Okunev explained.

    The computing cluster also opens up additional opportunities for the implementation of new educational programs. Thus, “Digital Department” of NSU It is planned to launch the Machine Learning program. Within its framework, students will be trained on real projects that use artificial intelligence technologies and whose customers are industrial partners from various industries.

    yu1sch Decentralized process management through self-organizing collective work of all its elements.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Vegetable hide-and-go-seek

    Source: Ministry of Education

    Vegetables are a major component of the meals that will be served to more than 240,000 students as part of Ka Ora, Ka Ako – the healthy school lunches programme.
    Sean Teddy, Hautū (Leader) Operations and Integration at the Ministry of Education says the meals delivered from the School Lunch Collective meet the same nutritional standards the programme has always done. These standards are based on Ministry of Health guidance. Every meal will include vegetables or salad ingredients.
    “We’re doing what a lot of parents do when they cook for their children at home – we’ll include vegetables, but they won’t always be visible. Schools have told us that that hiding the carrots, parsnip, pumpkin, spinach, cauliflower and other vegetables in the sauces works well for children,” Mr Teddy says.
    Schools say the hot meals that will be provided are popular with children and the recipes selected are the ones they know.
    Fruit and vegetable suppliers, such as Wattie’s and Fresh Connection will provide ingredients to the School Lunch Collective.
    Compared to what they get now, students in Year 0 to 3 will receive more to eat. All students will receive the same size meals – around 240g.
    “For students in Year 9 and above, two supplementary items will be served with each meal, such as baking that contains vegetables – chocolate brownie made with kumara and pumpkin is expected to be a popular choice – along with fresh fruit, or fruit yoghurt,” Mr Teddy says.
    “We will continue to support schools making lunches for their students to meet the required meal sizes and nutritional standards.
    “We’ll work closely with the School Lunch Collective to deliver high-quality meals and will monitor, measure, and respond to any requests for changes.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Delivering local priorities on the North Coast

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government continues to boost the liveability of communities across Richmond, with federal funding delivering road and community infrastructure projects across the Tweed and Byron Shires. 

    Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP, joined Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot MP on Tuesday to inspect the progress of projects and to discuss the region’s priorities.

    As part of our commitment to improving the safety of local roads in Richmond, local councils will receive an increase in their Roads to Recovery funding over the next five years.

    Tweed Shire Council will receive over $15.9 million – a boost of over $6.8 million, and Byron Shire Council will receive over $6.4 million – a boost of over $2.7 million.

    This will pave the way for future priority projects and build on projects already delivered and fully funded by the Albanese Government – such as intersection, drainage, and bus stop upgrades at Rifle Range Road at Bangalow, which received $673,076. 

    The surface of Ducat Street at Tweed Heads is currently being upgraded thanks to over $1.5 million from the Albanese Government, with a further $500,000 in federal funding supporting widening and drainage works on Bayshore Drive at Byron Bay – making these roads safer.

    Through Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, Tweed Shire Council is receiving over $2.8 million, and Byron Shire Council is receiving over $1.1 million for high-impact local projects. 

    The Albanese Government has also committed $618,869 under Round 1 of the Growing Regions Program to construct a Men’s Shed, environmental centre, performance stage and commercial kitchen, as well as provide upgrades to existing infrastructure at the Mullum SEED Eco Hub in Mullumbimby – boosting community engagement opportunities in Richmond. 

    Nationally, the Albanese Government is delivering significant funding increases to support local councils deliver their priority projects. 

    The Roads to Recovery program is progressively increasing from $500 million to $1 billion per year, the Road Black Spot Program is increasing from $110 million to $150 million per year, and $200 million per year is available under our Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

    “Justine Elliot is a strong advocate for communities in Richmond, which is why it’s fantastic to be in town with her to see local projects that she’s campaigned for progressing, and to discuss some of the region’s future priorities.

    “Like my own community, Richmond has been impacted by a number of natural disasters, which is why we’re delivering more funding to local councils to improve the safety and flood resilience of local roads, and to support priority projects that will have a lasting impact.” 

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Richmond, Justine Elliot MP:

    “As the Local MP, I’m proud to deliver this important funding for our community. These important funding increases from the Albanese Government have made many local projects a reality right across the North Coast.

    “I invited Minister McBain to our region to discuss how we can keep working to deliver projects that create local jobs, improve our area and keep our local economy strong.”

    Quotes attributable to Tweed Shire Mayor, Chris Cherry:

    “We thank the Australian Government for delivering on its commitment to improve our local road network – particularly for roads across the Tweed Shire that have been significantly impacted by flooding events.

    “When we work together, we get the best outcomes for our community, which is why we’ll continue to partner with the Australian Government to deliver the community infrastructure that locals need and deserve.” 

    Quotes attributable to Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye:

    “It’s fantastic to welcome Minister McBain to Byron Shire to highlight the significant progress we’re making with jointly funded projects, and to discuss our future priorities.

    “With the community calling on the Byron Shire Council to provide more services than ever before, we’re strengthening our partnership with the Australian Government to ensure that we can continue to deliver the projects locals want to get off the ground.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Scam alert: Scammers are targeting Australians in hardship

    Source: Australia Scam Watch

    Background
    Criminals are impersonating charities and offering fake financial assistance schemes to target people experiencing financial hardship.
    Trusted charities like Good Shepherd and the Salvation Army offer no interest loans. These loans support low-income earners and people in hardship who are struggling with payments or unexpected expenses.
    Criminals are pretending to offer loans from these charities. They may also impersonate government agencies and programs or other charities.

    How to spot the scam
    This scam can be hard to spot because criminals can set up fake social media accounts that look genuine.
    The scammers will ask for your identity information and myGov login details.

    How the scam works
    Criminals pretend to offer services such as no interest loans. They also offer fake emergency relief services, rental assistance, and programs such as the Australian Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
    Once the scammers get someone’s identity information, they can log into myGov accounts, lock people out, and stop people getting government benefits like Centerlink and NDIS payments. They can steal support from charities.
    Someone who is already experiencing hardship can be left without any money and be further behind on payments such as rent.

    What you should know
    Real support to people experiencing financial hardship is available, but criminals will try to target people in need.
    Check independently that an organisation offering financial help is legitimate. Don’t rely on social media advertisements. Don’t assume that someone contacting you is who they say they are.
    A real organisation will never ask for your personal information through social media.

    Find out more
    This scam is a type of impersonation scam.
    Scammers pretend they are from charity organisations. They ask for personal details so they can steal government benefits and charity support.

    Stay protected
    STOP – Don’t give money or personal information to anyone if unsure. Say no, hang up, delete.
    CHECK – Scammers pretend to be from organisations you know and trust – like your bank, charities, the police or government. If you’re not sure, call the official phone number of the organisation to check.
    PROTECT – Act quickly if something feels wrong. If you have had money or personal information stolen contact your bank and Services Australia immediately. Help others by reporting scams to Scamwatch.

    Resources for people experiencing financial hardship
    The official number for the National debt helpline is 1800 007 007.
    Call the Good Shepherd No Interest Loans (NILs) team on 13 64 57 or find a community service NILs provider near you. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement of United States Attorney Clare E. Connors Regarding November 2024 General Election

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    HONOLULU – United States Attorney Clare E. Connors announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Michael Nammar will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSA Nammar has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Hawaii, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said United States Attorney Connors. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

    United States Attorney Connors stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Nammar will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 808-541-2850.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 808-566-4300.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Connors said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Planisware – Q3 2024 revenue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Q3 2024 revenue of € 47.0 million

    • Year-on-year revenue growth in constant currencies of +18.7% in Q3 and +19.3% for the 9 first months of the year
    • Record high commercial pipeline but longer customer decision-making process driving delayed signature and start of new contracts
    • More cautious view on revenue growth in Q4
    • Improving profitability thanks to continuous progress in operational efficiency and better activity mix
    • Revision of 2024 objectives announced in September 2023:
      • 2024 revenue growth in constant currencies between +17% and +18%
        (vs. c. 19.5%)
      • Adjusted EBITDA margin raised to approximately 34% (vs. c. 33%)
      • Cash Conversion Rate of c. 80% confirmed

    Paris, October 23, 2024 – Planisware, a leading B2B provider of SaaS in the rapidly growing Project Economy market, announces today its revenue for the third quarter of 2024. Revenue amounted to € 47.0 million, up by +18.2% in current currencies, mainly led by the continued success of the Group’s market-leading SaaS platform. In constant currencies, revenue growth reached +18.7% (€+7.4 million) in Q3 and +19.3% (€+21.6 million) for the first nine months of the year. Recurring revenue amounted to €41.4 million in Q3 (88% of revenue) and was up by +21.2% in constant currencies.

    Loïc Sautour, CEO of Planisware, commented: “During the third quarter of 2024, Planisware delivered a solid +18.7% revenue growth in constant currencies, led by the continued success of our SaaS operations. This was a bit lower than expected due to elongated customers’ decision-making process since the end of the summer on the back of political concerns in France and difficulties seen in some of our key verticals such as automotive.

    Taking into account some uncertainties in the closing timing of delayed signatures and the start of some contracts, we adopt a cautious view for the end of the year. As a results, we now target annual revenue growth between +17% and +18% in constant currencies.

    In parallel, we continue to benefit from the evolution of our activity mix and to deliver further operational efficiencies on employee-related costs enabling to raise our 2024 profitability objective to c. 34% while confirming our cash conversion rate objective of c. 80%.

    Beyond the current quarter, we continue to build on our record high commercial pipeline fuelled by increasing demands for strategic portfolio management tools that help companies to better align their resources with strategic business goals. This dynamic is paving the way towards our ambition to be the accelerator of the Project Economy and the number one provider of multi-specialty project and portfolio management software solutions.”

    Q3 2024 revenue by revenue stream

    In € million Q3 2024 Q3 2023 Variation
    YoY    		 Variation
    in cc*
    Recurring revenue 41.4 34.3 +20.7% +21.2%
    SaaS & Hosting 20.8 17.1 +21.9% +22.3%
    Evolutive support 13.0 10.4 +24.6% +25.2%
    Subscription support 2.8 2.2 +29.4% +30.3%
    Maintenance 4.8 4.6 +3.8% +4.1%
    Non-recurring revenue 5.6 5.1 +8.3% +8.7%
    Perpetual license 2.0 1.3 +57.3% +58.0%
    Implementation & others non-recurring 3.5 3.8 -8.1% -7.9%
    Revenue with customers 47.0 39.4 +19.1% +19.6%
    Other revenue – 0.3    
    Total revenue 47.0 39.7 +18.2% +18.7%

    * Revenue evolution in constant currencies, i.e. at Q3 2023 average exchange rates

    Reaching €47.0 million in Q3 2024, revenue was up by +18.2% in current currencies and +18.7% in constant currencies. The exchange rates effect was mostly related to the appreciation of the euro versus the US dollar and the Japanese yen compared to Q3 2023. In order to reflect the underlying performance of the Company independently from exchange rates fluctuations, the following analysis refers to revenue evolution in constant currencies, applying Q3 2023 average exchange rates to Q3 2024 revenue figures, unless expressly stated otherwise.

    Recurring revenue

    Representing 88% of Q3 2024 revenue versus 86% in Q3 2023, recurring revenue reached €41.4 million, up by +21.2%.

    Revenue growth was fully led by Planisware’s SaaS model (i.e. SaaS & Hosting and Evolutive & Subscription support) up +23.9%, with SaaS & Hosting revenue up by +22.3% thanks to contracts secured with new customers as well as continued expansion within the installed base. Revenue of support activities (Evolutive & Subscription support), intrinsically related to Planisware’s SaaS offering, grew by +26.1%.

    Maintenance revenue was up by +4.1% in the context of the Group’s shift from its prior license model to a SaaS model.

    Non-recurring revenue

    Non-recurring revenue was up by +8.7%, helped by perpetual licenses extensions and upgrades sold in Q3 2024 to established customers with specific on-premise needs.

    The continued effort to deliver shorter implementations and to bring value faster to customers continued to drive down the planned revenue decline in Implementation. At -7.9% in Q3, revenue decline was accented by delays in the start of projects.

    Confirmed leadership of Planisware

    Planisware’s broad recognition from third-party industry analysts was further confirmed by the latest 2024 Gartner® “Magic QuadrantTMfor Adaptive Project Management and Reporting report.” published on September 5, 2024 and in which Gartner reasserted Planisware as a Leader, emphasizing “robust integrations, dynamic reporting, and native collaboration functionality” and a roadmap that “includes investments to bolster objective and key result (OKR) capabilities, automate work effort tracking, and deliver additional AI-driven features”.

    2024 objectives

    During its process to prepare its IPO, Planisware communicated to investors its 2024 objectives as early as September 2023.

    Planisware communicates today a revised set of 2024 objectives to take into account the uncertainties in the closing timing of delayed signatures and the start of some contracts. The Group adopts a more cautious view for year-end revenue growth. In parallel, continuous progress in operational efficiency and improving activity mix enable Planisware to raise its profitability objective, while confirming its objective for cash generation. As a consequence, Planisware’s 2024 objectives are:

    • Revenue growth in constant currencies between +17% and +18% (c. 19.5% priorly)
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin of approximately 34% (approximately 33% priorly)
    • Cash Conversion Rate of c.80% confirmed

    Appendices

    YTD 2024 revenue by revenue stream

    In € million 9M 2024 9M 2023 Variation
    YoY    		 Variation
    in cc*
    Recurring revenue 118.0 96.4 +22.5% +22.9%
    SaaS & Hosting 59.6 46.6 +27.8% +28.0%
    Evolutive support 35.9 29.8 +20.4% +21.1%
    Subscription support 8.4 6.3 +34.8% +35.0%
    Maintenance 14.1 13.6 +3.4% +3.5%
    Non-recurring revenue 15.5 15.3 +1.9% +2.0%
    Perpetual license 6.1 3.6 +70.1% +70.4%
    Implementation & others non-recurring 9.4 11.7 -19.2% -19.1%
    Revenue with customers 133.6 111.6 +19.7% +20.0%
    Other revenue – 0.7    
    Total revenue 133.6 112.3 +18.9% +19.3%

    * Revenue evolution in constant currencies, i.e. at 9M 2023 average exchange rates

    Q3 2024 revenue Investors & Analysts conference call

    Planisware’s management team will host an international conference call on October 23, 2024 at 8:00am CET to details Q3 2023 performance and key achievements, by means of a presentation followed by a Q&A session. The webcast and its subsequent replay will be available on planisware.com.

    Upcoming event

    • February 27, 2025:        FY 2024 results publication

    Contact

    About Planisware

    Planisware is a leading business-to-business (“B2B”) provider of Software-as-a-Service (“SaaS”) in the rapidly growing Project Economy. Planisware’s mission is to provide solutions that help organizations transform how they strategize, plan and deliver their projects, project portfolios, programs and products.

    With more than 700 employees across 14 offices, Planisware operates at significant scale serving around 600 organizational clients in a wide range of verticals and functions across more than 30 countries worldwide. Planisware’s clients include large international companies, medium-sized businesses and public sector entities.

    Planisware is listed on the regulated market of Euronext Paris (Compartment A, ISIN code FR001400PFU4, ticker symbol “PLNW”). For more information, visit: https://planisware.com/

    Connect with Planisware on: LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

    Disclaimer

    Forward-looking statements

    This document contains statements regarding the prospects and growth strategies of Planisware. These statements are sometimes identified by the use of the future or conditional tense, or by the use of forward-looking terms such as “considers”, “envisages”, “believes”, “aims”, “expects”, “intends”, “should”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “thinks”, “wishes” and “might”, or, if applicable, the negative form of such terms and similar expressions or similar terminology. Such information is not historical in nature and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of future performance. Such information is based on data, assumptions, and estimates that Planisware considers reasonable. Such information is subject to change or modification based on uncertainties in the economic, financial, competitive or regulatory environments.

    This information includes statements relating to Planisware’s intentions, estimates and targets with respect to its markets, strategies, growth, results of operations, financial situation and liquidity. Planisware’s forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this document. Absent any applicable legal or regulatory requirements, Planisware expressly disclaims any obligation to release any updates to any forward-looking statements contained in this document to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances, on which any forward-looking statement contained in this document is based. Planisware operates in a competitive and rapidly evolving environment; it is therefore unable to anticipate all risks, uncertainties or other factors that may affect its business, their potential impact on its business or the extent to which the occurrence of a risk or combination of risks could have significantly different results from those set out in any forward-looking statements, it being noted that such forward-looking statements do not constitute a guarantee of actual results.

    Rounded figures

    Certain numerical figures and data presented in this document (including financial data presented in millions or thousands and certain percentages) have been subject to rounding adjustments and, as a result, the corresponding totals in this document may vary slightly from the actual arithmetic totals of such information.

    Variation in constant currencies

    Variation in constant currencies represent figures based on constant exchange rates using as a base those used in the prior year. As a result, such figures may vary slightly from actual results based on current exchange rates.

    Non-IFRS measures

    This document includes certain unaudited measures and ratios of the Group’s financial or non-financial performance (the “non-IFRS measures”), such as “recurring revenue”, “non-recurring revenue”, “gross margin”, “Adjusted EBITDA”, “Adjusted EBITDA margin”, “Adjusted Free Cash Flow”, “cash conversion rate”, “churn rate” and “Net Retention Rate” (or “NRR”). Non-IFRS financial information may exclude certain items contained in the nearest IFRS financial measure or include certain non-IFRS components. Readers should not consider items which are not recognized measurements under IFRS as alternatives to the applicable measurements under IFRS. These measures have limitations as analytical tools and readers should not treat them as substitutes for IFRS measures. In particular, readers should not consider such measurements of the Group’s financial performance or liquidity as an alternative to profit for the period, operating income or other performance measures derived in accordance with IFRS or as an alternative to cash flow from (used in) operating activities as a measurement of the Group’s liquidity. Other companies with activities similar to or different from those of the Group could calculate non-IFRS measures differently from the calculations adopted by the Group.

    Non-IFRS measures included in this document are defined as follows:

    • Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as Current operating profit including share of profit of equity-accounted investees, plus amortization and depreciation as well as impairment of intangible assets and property, plant and equipment, plus either non-recurring items or non-operating items.
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin is the ratio of Adjusted EBITDA to total revenue.
    • Adjusted FCF (Free Cash Flow) is calculated as cash flows from operating activities, plus IPO costs paid, if any, less other financial income and expenses classified as operating activities in the cash-flow statement, and less net cash relating to capital expenditures.
    • Cash Conversion Rate is defined as Adjusted FCF divided by Adjusted EBITDA. Planisware considers Cash Conversion Rate to be a meaningful financial measure to assess and compare the Group’s capital intensity and efficiency.
    • Net cash position is defined as Cash minus indebtedness excluding lease liabilities.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Unifiedpost Group announces changes in Leadership team and Board composition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    INSIDE INFORMATION

    La Hulpe, Belgium – 23 October 2024, 7:00 am. CET – INSIDE INFORMATION – Unifiedpost Group SA (Euronext Brussels: UPG) (Unifiedpost, Company), a leading provider of integrated business communications solutions, announces the appointment of Nicolas de Beco as its CEO, effective December 1, 2024. Founder and current CEO Hans Leybaert will transition to Executive Chairman. Additionally, the Board has co-opted two new members: Crescemus BV, represented by Pieter Bourgeois, and PDMT Investments LLC, represented by Peter Mulroy. The Board further plans to nominate potential Board members at the next Ordinary General Shareholder Meeting. These changes align with our commitment to enhance governance and strengthen the position of Unifiedpost.

    Summary of appointments:

    • Nicolas de Beco has been appointed as the new CEO of Unifiedpost, effective December 1, 2024. Nicolas succeeds Hans Leybaert, who will transition to Executive Chairman of the Board.
    • Crescemus BV, represented by Pieter Bourgeois, has been co-opted as a non-executive director, replacing AS Partner BV, represented by Stefan Yee, who stepped down on October 1, 2024. Crescemus will represent Alychlo NV in the Board. The mandate will take effect as from October 23, 2024.
    • PDMT Investments LLC, represented by Peter Mulroy, has been co-opted as independent director, replacing Sopharth BV, represented by Philippe De Backer, who stepped down on October 1, 2024. The mandate will take effect as from October 23, 2024.
    • The Board plans to nominate four potential Board members at the next Ordinary Shareholder Meeting in May 2025.

    Appointment of Nicolas de Beco as CEO; Hans Leybaert becomes executive chairman.

    Unifiedpost is pleased to announce Nicolas de Beco as its new CEO, effective December 1, 2024. Nicolas will succeed Hans Leybaert, who will transition into the role of Executive Chairman. Nicolas brings extensive experience in scaling SaaS businesses and driving operational excellence, both of which are essential to Unifiedpost’s current strategic priorities, as the company continues to execute on its organic growth plans and capitalise on opportunities arising from regulatory reforms across Europe. Hans Leybaert will remain on board to guide the strategy implementation of the company.

    Hans Leybaert stated, “We welcome Nicolas as our new CEO, and I am excited to transition into the role of Executive Chairman. Nicolas brings a wealth of experience to Unifiedpost, having served as Senior Vice President of Strategy at Quadient and President of the French Foreign Trade Advisors in New England. His proven ability to understand and address customer needs aligns with our commitment to customer-centric innovation. I am confident that this transition will keep Unifiedpost on track to becoming the leading digital platform for administrative, financial, payment, and communication processes. Nicolas will bring fresh ideas that will accelerate our growth.”

    Nicolas de Beco stated: “I’m excited to join Unifiedpost, Europe’s leading SaaS provider for Financial Automation. With the support of 1.000+ dedicated employees and a strong base of 1,3 million customers, I look forward to leading the team towards sustained, profitable growth and shareholder returns.”

    Co-optation of new Board members

    Following the announcement on July 8, 2024, Stefan Yee, representing AS Partners BV, has decided to voluntarily step down as chairman and member of the Board after nearly 10 years of service since 2014, effective October 1, 2024. Additionally, Philippe De Backer, representing Sopharth BV, has also stepped down from the Board effective October 1, 2024, due to a new professional commitment that prevents his continued service on the Unifiedpost Board.

    Following this, the Board of Directors has decided to co-opt Pieter Bourgeois, representing Crescemus BV, and Peter Mulroy, representing PDMT Investments LLC, as directors effective October 23, 2024. Pieter Bourgeois, who will replace Stefan Yee, is the CEO of Alychlo NV and will represent Alychlo on the Board. Peter Mulroy, replacing Philippe De Backer, will serve as an independent director and brings over 40 years of experience in global trade, receivables, and supply chain finance. The Board will seek ratification of these appointments from the Ordinary General Shareholder Meeting in May 2025. These changes reflect Unifiedpost’s commitment to maintaining a diverse and experienced Board, ensuring strong corporate governance. The newly appointed members’ extensive international experience aligns with Unifiedpost’s ambitions to accelerate the growth of digital services and enhance value for our shareholders and customers.

    Commenting on the announcement, Hans Leybaert stated, “First and foremost, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Stefan Yee and Philippe De Backer for their significant contributions to Unifiedpost during their tenure on our Board. Their insights and dedication have been invaluable to our growth. As we welcome Pieter Bourgeois and Peter Mulroy as new members, I am confident that their expertise will further enhance our governance. Pieter, representing Alychlo, underscores our commitment to a strong Board, while Peter’s extensive background in global trade and finance will be instrumental as we continue to advance our strategic objectives. We look forward to the fresh perspectives our new Board members will bring while building upon the strong foundation laid by their predecessors”.

    Pieter Bourgeois, CEO of Alychlo, added, “As long-term investors, we have always believed in the company’s potential and the value it can unlock for all shareholders. We appreciate the collaborative approach taken by Unifiedpost’s leadership to implement these governance changes, which we believe are a testament to Unifiedpost’s commitment to adopt best practices and strengthen oversight. I am honoured to join the board and look forward to working collaboratively with my fellow directors and management to drive sustainable growth, operational excellence, and long-term value creation for all stakeholders.”

    Planned nominations by the Board.

    To further expand the experience of the Board and give it a more international character, the Board shall propose to nominate four additional directors at the next Ordinary General Shareholder Meeting, scheduled for May 20, 2025:

    • Nathalie Van den Haute, representing Quilaudem BV, shall be proposed to be nominated as a non-executive director. Nathalie is an Investment Principal at Alychlo NV and will represent Alychlo on the Board. She has extensive experience in corporate finance and equity capital markets, having held various leadership positions at KBC Securities.
    • Koen Hoffman, representing Ahok BV, shall be proposed to be nominated as an independent director. Koen is the CEO of Value Square and serves on the boards of Greenyard, Fagron, and MDxHealth in independent capacities.
    • Leanne Kemp shall be proposed to be nominated as an independent director. Leanne is the founder and CEO of Everledger. A prominent figure in the technology sector, she co-chairs the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Future of Manufacturing and participates in the Global Future Council on Blockchain. Additionally, Leanne leads workstreams at the Global Blockchain Business Council, co-chairs the Sustainable Trade Action Group for the World Trade Board and serves on the IBM Blockchain Platform Board of Advisors.  
    • Nicolas de Beco, representing Beco Global Consulting LLC, shall be proposed to be nominated as executive director.

    The Board shall propose to nominate them for a four-year term, effective from the next Ordinary General Shareholder Meeting. Additionally, the Board shall propose that the shareholders align the terms of the mandates for Crescemus BV and PDMT Investments LLC with this four-year term.

    With these changes to its governance structure, Unifiedpost highlights the international experience of its Board. This reinforces the company’s ambition to become a leading Pan-European player in its market segment.

    Please visit Unifiedpost’s website for more information about the Board of Directors.

    Contact:
    Alex Nicoll
    Investor Relations
    Unifiedpost Group
    alex.nicoll@unifiedpost.com

    About Unifiedpost Group

    Unifiedpost is a leading cloud-based platform for SME business services built on “Documents,” “Identity” and “Payments”. Unifiedpost operates and develops a 100% cloud-based platform for administrative and financial services that allows real-time and seamless connections between Unifiedpost’s customers, their suppliers, their customers, and other parties along the financial value chain. With its one-stop-shop solutions, Unifiedpost’s mission is to make administrative and financial processes simple and smart for its customers. For more information about Unifiedpost Group and its offerings, please visit our website: Unifiedpost Group | Global leaders in digital solutions

    Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: The statements contained herein may include prospects, statements of future expectations, opinions, and other forward-looking statements in relation to the expected future performance of Unifiedpost Group and the markets in which it is active. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions regarding future events. By nature, they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that appear justified at the time at which they are made but may not turn out to be accurate. Actual results, performance or events may, therefore, differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable law, Unifiedpost Group does not undertake any obligation to update, clarify or correct any forward-looking statements contained in this press release in light of new information, future events or otherwise and disclaims any liability in respect hereto. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: WithSecure Interim report 1 January – 30 September 2024: Elements software continues growth, profitability maintained despite challenges in services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WithSecure Corporation, Interim report 1 January – 30 September 2024, 23 October 2024 at 8.00 EEST

    WithSecure Interim report 1 January – 30 September 2024: Elements software continues growth, profitability maintained despite challenges in services

    Highlights of July – September 2024 (“third quarter”)

    • Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR)1 for Elements Cloud products and services2 increased by 11% to EUR 81.8 million (EUR 73.8 million)
    • Elements Cloud ARR decrease from previous quarter was 1%
    • Net Revenue Retention for Elements Cloud was 104%
    • Revenue for Elements Cloud increased by 9% to EUR 20.7 million (EUR 19.0 million)
    • ARR for Cloud Protection for Salesforce increased by 38% to EUR 10.2 million (EUR 7.4 million)
    • CPSF Revenue increased by 20% to EUR 2.4 million (EUR 2.0 million)
    • Cyber security consulting revenue declined by 1% to EUR 7.5 million (EUR 7.7 million)
    • Adjusted EBITDA for WithSecure was EUR 1.9 million (EUR -2.3 million)
    • Items affecting comparability (IAC) of EBITDA were EUR -0.4 million (EUR -0.2 million).
    • Consulting-related goodwill was impaired by EUR 15.5 million in the third quarter
    1. Annual recurring revenue (ARR) of cloud products is calculated by multiplying monthly recurring revenue of last month of quarter by twelve.  Monthly recurring revenue includes recognized revenue within the month excluding non-recurring revenue
    2. Elements Cloud includes Elements Cloud portfolio software and services as well as the managed services

    Highlights of January – September 2024

    • Revenue for Elements Cloud products and services increased by 10% to EUR 61.8 million (EUR 56.4 million)
    • CPSF revenue increased by 5% to EUR 6.6 million (EUR 6.3 million)
    • Cyber security consulting revenue increased by 2% to EUR 23.6 million (EUR 23.2 million)
    • Adjusted EBITDA for WithSecure was EUR 0.7 million (EUR -16.3 million)
    • Items affecting comparability (IAC) of EBITDA were EUR -0.9 million (EUR -3.4 million).

    Outlook for 2024

    Outlook for 2024 (updated on 11 October 2024)
    Annual recurring revenue (ARR) for Elements Cloud products and services will grow by 6–14 % from the end of 2023. At the end of 2023, Elements Cloud ARR was EUR 78.4 million.

    Revenue from Elements Cloud products and services will grow by 8–12 % from previous year. Previous year revenue from Elements Cloud was EUR 76.1 million.

    Total revenue of the group will grow by 2– 5 % from previous year. Previous year revenue of the group was EUR 142.8 million.

    Adjusted EBITDA of full year 2024 will be positive.

    Outlook for 2024 (previous)
    Annual recurring revenue (ARR) for Elements Cloud products and services will grow by 10–20 % from the end of 2023. At the end of 2023, Elements Cloud ARR was EUR 78.4 million.

    Revenue from Elements Cloud products and services will grow by 10–16 % from previous year. Previous year revenue from Elements Cloud was EUR 76.1 million.

    Total revenue of the group will grow by 6–12 % from previous year. Previous year revenue of the group was EUR 142.8 million.

    Adjusted EBITDA of full year 2024 will be positive.

    Figures in this report are unaudited. Figures in brackets refer to the corresponding period in the previous year, unless otherwise stated. Percentages and figures presented may include rounding differences and might therefore not add up precisely to the totals presented.

    CEO Antti Koskela

    In the third quarter of 2024, WithSecure ARR for Elements Cloud products and services grew by 11 % to EUR 81.8 million (EUR 73.8 million). Elements Cloud revenue grew by 9 % to EUR 20.7 million (EUR 19.0 million). Despite the slightly disappointing revenue growth, profitability of both Elements Company segment and WithSecure Group was positive at the Adjusted EBITDA level. Cloud Protection for Salesforce business returned to the growth track, with ARR growth of 38 %.

    In the Elements Company, Elements software continued to perform with good year-on-year growth. In the DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) region, the revenue growth slowed down slightly, mostly due to the weakness of the German economy. In other European regions and Japan, the revenue and ARR growth continued. In Managed services, some large customers churned during third quarter. This development was affected by our increasing focus on selling managed services to mid-market customers through the Elements platform. However, despite the increase in the number of customers, revenue did not fully compensate for the churned accounts. Of the geographic regions, mostly the UK and the US have been impacted by the Managed services development.

    Exposure Management, introduced in SPHERE’24 reached General Availability during the third quarter. The customer demand for the newest module of Elements has remained high. Also, our AI assistant Luminen became available for all Elements customers in the third quarter.

    Elements Company Adjusted EBITDA was EUR 2.0 million (EUR -0.5 million), as a result of the cost savings of 2023 and continuous efficiency measures.

    In Cloud Protection for Salesforce (CPSF), focused efforts on improving sales efficiency resulted in breaking through the 10 million ARR threshold. ARR grew by 38 % to EUR 10.2 million (EUR 7.4 million). Revenue grew by 20 % to EUR 2.4 million (EUR 2.0 million). We continue to develop CPSF as an independent business in WithSecure. Profitability of the CPSF is moving towards break-even with the improving revenue.

    Cyber security consulting revenue was slightly below previous year’s level and was EUR 7.5 million (EUR 7.7 million). In some key accounts, we saw financial constraints in the third quarter. In the long term, we continue to see solid demand for cyber security consulting service. As announced on 31 October 2023, the Cyber security consulting business is under strategic review. We are in active discussions regarding divestment of the business, but no decision has been taken so far.

    Due to the gaps between actual and expected revenue, we lowered the financial outlook for 2024. For the changes in consulting revenue estimates and increased equity market risk, we recorded an impairment of the consulting-related goodwill of EUR 15.5 million in the third quarter.

    At the end of September, WithSecure’s headquarters moved to the new premises in Wood City, Helsinki. This is part of our plan of creating dynamic and collaborative workplaces, to welcome our employees and visitors and to foster well-being and creativity.

    Financial performance

    (mEUR) 7-9/2024 7-9/2023 Change % 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 Change % 1-12/2023
    Revenue 36.1 34.8 4% 109.2 104.8 4% 142.8
    Gross Margin 26.2 24.2 9% 78.4 72.6 8% 100.2
    % of revenue 72.6 % 69.5 %   71.8 % 69.3 %   70.2 %
    Other operating income1 0.7 0.2 227% 1.6 1.0 53% 1.4
    Operating expenses1 -25.0 -26.6 6% -79.2 -90.0 12% -117.7
    Sales & Marketing -13.7 -15.2 10% -42.9 -52.4 18% -68.1
    Research & Development -8.4 -8.2 3% -26.5 -27.6 4% -36.3
    Administration -3.0 -3.3 10% -9.8 -10.0 2% -13.3
    Adjusted EBITDA2 1.9 -2.3 182% 0.7 -16.3 -104% -16.1
    % of revenue 5.2 % -6.5 %   0.7 % -15.6 %   -11.3 %
    Items affecting comparability (IAC)              
    Other items -0.6 -0.1 -468% -1.6 -0.4 -301% -1.4
    Restructuring -0.4 -0.1 -303% -0.4 -4.4 90% -8.9
    Divestments 0.6     1.2 1.4 -15% 1.4
    EBITDA 1.5 -2.5 -160% -0.1 -19.7 99% -25.1
    % of revenue 4.1 % -7.1 %   -0.1 % -18.8 %   -17.6 %
    Depreciation & amortization, excluding PPA3 -2.6 -2.5 -5% -7.4 -7.6 2% -10.2
    Impairment -15.5 -6.2 -150% -15.5 -6.2 -150% -6.2
    PPA amortization -0.5 -0.6 15% -1.7 -1.8 4% -2.4
    EBIT -17.2 -11.8 46% -24.8 -35.3 30% -43.9
    % of revenue -47.5 % -33.8 %   -22.7 % -33.7 %   -30.7 %
    Adjusted EBIT2 -0.8 -4.8 84% -6.7 -23.9 72% -26.3
    % of revenue -2.1 % -13.7 %   -6.1 % -22.8 %   -18.4 %
    1. Excluding Items Affecting Comparability (IAC) and depreciation and amortization. In 2023 excludes also costs of services provided to F-Secure under TSA and equivalent income charged for TSA services. 
    2. Adjustments are material items outside the normal course of business associated with acquisitions, integration, restructuring, gains or losses from sales of businesses and other items affecting comparability. For reconciliation and a breakdown of adjusted costs, see Note 6 (Reconciliation of alternative performance measures)
    3. Amortization of intangible assets from business combinations (PPA, purchase price allocation, related amortizations). 
    (mEUR) 7-9/2024 7-9/2023 Change % 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 Change % 1-12/2023
    Earnings per share, (EUR)1 -0.10 -0.06 -69% -0.13 -0.16 18% -0.23
    Deferred revenue       65.7 65.7 0% 66.9
    Cash flow from operations before financial items and taxes -0.6 -9.0 94% -5.7 -22.5 75% -19.9
    Cash and cash equivalents       21.6 30.0 -28% 36.6
    ROI, % -60.8 % -33.3 % -82% -27.1 % -30.9 % 12% -30.5 %
    Equity ratio, %       66.6 % 79.1 % -16% 73.3 %
    Gearing, %       4.0 % -18.3 % -122% -22.2 %
    Personnel, end of period       983 1,147 -14% 1,087
    1. Based on the weighted average number of outstanding shares during the period 175,976,169 (1-9/2024). Earnings per share has been recalculated for comparative periods using average weighted share amount after share issues.

    Events after period-end
    No material changes regarding the company’s business or financial position have taken place after the end of the quarter.

    Additional information
    This is a summary of WithSecure’s interim report 1 January – 30 September 2024. The full report is a PDF file attached to this stock exchange release. Full report is also available on the company website.

    Webcast
    WithSecure’s CEO Antti Koskela and CFO Tom Jansson will present the results in a webcast on 23 October starting at 14.00 EEST. The webcast will be held in English and can be accessed at

    https://withsecure.videosync.fi/q3-2024

    Questions in written format are requested in the webcast portal. Presentation material and the webcast recording will be available on the company website

    Materials | Investor Relations | WithSecure™

    Financial calendar
    WithSecure will publish its financial information dates of 2025 later in the fourth quarter of 2024. WithSecure observes at least a three-week (21 days) silent period prior to publication of financial reports, during which it refrains from engaging in discussions with capital market representatives or the media regarding WithSecure’s financial position or the factors affecting it.

    Contact information

    Tom Jansson, CFO
    WithSecure Corporation

    Laura Viita, VP, Controlling, investor relations and sustainability
    WithSecure Corporation
    +358 50 487 1044
    investor-relations@withsecure.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TGS Announces Birmingham-Gemini 3D Seismic Survey in Appalachian Basin

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OSLO, Norway (23 October 2024) – TGS, a global leader in energy data and intelligence, today announced an extension to the Birmingham 3D seismic survey covering 276 square miles. The survey is strategically located on the western flank of the Appalachian Basin, aligning with the most prospective trend of the Utica-Point Pleasant formation and Clinton sands.

    Kristian Johansen, CEO of TGS, commented: “The Birmingham-Gemini 3D survey reflects TGS’ commitment to uncovering the Appalachian Basin’s potential. Combined with our well-log database and analytical products, it provides clients with critical insights to drive exploration and production success, highlighting our dedication to delivering premium geoscience data for informed decision-making.”

    The Birmingham-Gemini 3D seismic survey will target key formations in the Appalachian Basin, including the Ordovician Trenton, Black River, Utica/Point Pleasant, Cambrian reservoirs, and Silurian Clinton sands. Positioned up-dip from the Utica condensate and gas trend, the survey aims to explore the under-explored Point Pleasant oil window.

    Using advanced seismic imaging, the project will map deep structures to identify hydrocarbon traps, analyze facies changes and optimize well placement. These insights will aid operators in refining exploration and production strategies.

    TGS will enhance the seismic data by integrating it with its extensive Appalachian geologic and well database, including over 480,000 well logs. Proprietary formation tops and well performance metrics, available through the TGS Well Data Analytics platform, provide clients with comprehensive analysis for deeper insights into the region’s potential.

    Recording for the Birmingham-Gemini 3D survey will commence in early 2025, with the fully processed dataset available to clients by year-end.

    This project is supported by industry funding.

    For more information, visit TGS.com or contact:

    Bård Stenberg
    IR & Business Intelligence
    Mobile: +47 992 45 235
    investor@tgs.com

    About TGS
    TGS provides advanced data and intelligence to companies active in the energy sector. With leading-edge technology and solutions spanning the entire energy value chain, TGS offers a comprehensive range of insights to help clients make better decisions. Our broad range of products and advanced data technologies, coupled with a global, extensive and diverse energy data library, make TGS a trusted partner in supporting the exploration and production of energy resources worldwide. For further information, please visit http://www.tgs.com (https://www.tgs.com/).

    Forward Looking Statement
    All statements in this press release other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, which are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove accurate. These factors include volatile market conditions, investment opportunities in new and existing markets, demand for licensing of data within the energy industry, operational challenges, and reliance on a cyclical industry and principal customers. Actual results may differ materially from those expected or projected in the forward-looking statements. TGS undertakes no responsibility or obligation to update or alter forward-looking statements for any reason.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LC: Speech by CS in presenting Government Minute in response to Report No. 82 of Public Accounts Committee

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech (translated from Chinese) by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, in presenting the Government Minute in response to Report No. 82 of the Public Accounts Committee in the Legislative Council today (October 23):

    President, 

         Laid on the table today is the Government Minute (GM) responding to Report No. 82 of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) presented to the Legislative Council (LegCo) on July 17, 2024.

         I welcome the Report of the PAC and am grateful for the time and efforts devoted by the Chairman of the PAC, Mr Shiu Ka-fai, and members of the PAC. The Government accepts all the PAC’s various recommendations and sets out in detail in the GM the specific responses of the relevant bureau and departments (B/Ds). The PAC conducted public hearings on the chapters on “Emergency dental services and elderly dental care support” and “Provision and monitoring of Rehabus services”. I would like to highlight the key follow-up measures taken and progress made by the Government and relevant organisations in response to the recommendations.

         Regarding improvements to the services of the General Public (GP) Sessions, the Department of Health (DH) has adjusted the preliminary registration time at nine dental clinics to prevent elderly persons from waiting until midnight. Among these, the time of disc distribution and formal registration at the Mona Fong Dental Clinic have also been adjusted so that patients can receive service after formal registration as soon as possible. The DH will roll out an online electronic disc distribution and registration system before the end of this year. By then, members of the public will no longer need to queue in person for obtaining discs, and will receive real-time information on the remaining disc quotas, i.e. they will know the number of disc quotas remaining on a real-time basis, so as to ensure that all quotas can be fully utilised. The system will give registration priority to elderly persons aged 65 or above. In addition, the Government will enhance emergency dental services targeting the underprivileged groups with financial difficulties in collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) under a new service model in 2025. The target is to provide additional service capacity which will be at least two times the current capacity of GP sessions. To ensure limited resources can be deployed to those in need (in particular the underprivileged groups), the Government will examine the cost-effectiveness and service arrangement of the GP sessions, and consider the need of introducing means tests or other eligibility criteria for emergency dental services, or other proposals such as replacement by provision of services to underprivileged groups in need by NGOs. This is to ensure the effective use of public healthcare resources.

         Regarding dental services in public hospitals, the DH has convened joint service meetings with the Hospital Authority (HA) and maintained relevant information as recommended in the Report. The HA also regularly monitors the achievement of targets on the waiting time for new case appointments at its Oral Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Clinics, and assess patients’ conditions in a timely manner so as to arrange their first appointments as soon as possible. Furthermore, the DH and the HA have initiated discussions on the merging of hospital dental services and will take into account the observations and recommendations in the Audit Report.

         To alleviate the manpower shortage, the DH is conducting the year-round recruitment of local full-time and part-time dentists, provides incremental credits based on the applicants’ work experience, and relaxes the Chinese language proficiency entry requirements for the positions. The latest batch of 10 part-time contract dentists took office sequentially from July to September 2024, and 42 full-time dentists took office in September 2024. In addition, following the passage of the Dentists Registration (Amendment) Bill 2024 by the LegCo on July 10, 2024, the DH has been working with the Dental Council of Hong Kong to admit the first batch of non-locally trained dentists to Hong Kong through the new mechanism in the first quarter of 2025 so as to serve the public.

         As for elderly dental care support, the DH has further ascertained the reasons for non-participation in the Outreach Dental Care Programme for the Elderly (ODCP) of residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs), day care centres for the elderly, and NGOs. The DH has also established a new mechanism with the Social Welfare Department to follow up with non-participating RCHEs and strengthen promotional work in encouraging the RCHEs to join the ODCP. Moreover, the DH has taken measures to ensure the participating NGOs’ fulfilment of their responsibilities according to the funding and service agreement terms. Except for during the COVID-19 epidemic when there were restrictions on visits to the RCHEs, the overall target number of service in 2023-24 were met.

         The DH has encouraged more private dentists to enrol in the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme (EHVS) through various means, such as introducing the EHVS at meetings or events organised by the Hong Kong Dental Association. The DH will continue to send reminder notifications and messages through the eHealth System (Subsidies) to healthcare service providers enrolled in the Scheme regularly, reminding them to update their enrolment particulars. Upon receiving notifications of change of particulars from healthcare service providers, the DH will process them and update the information on the website of the EHVS as soon as practicable. In addition to making use of private dental services in Hong Kong, eligible elderly persons may make use of the Elderly Health Care Vouchers (EHCVs) to pay for outpatient dental services at the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH) and its Huawei Li Zhi Yuan Community Health Service Center (Huawei CHC) since 2015 and 2023 respectively. Moreover, the Government launched the Elderly Health Care Voucher Greater Bay Area Pilot Scheme (Pilot Scheme) in 2024. From June to September this year, the Pilot Scheme has been implemented in seven integrated services medical institutions or dental healthcare institutions that provide dental services in Guangzhou, Nansha, Zhongshan, Dongguan and Shenzhen, and eligible Hong Kong elderly persons may choose from more service points. Together with the two service points at the HKU-SZH and the Huawei CHC, elderly persons may pay for outpatient dental service fees with the EHCVs at a total of nine services points of the medical institutions in Mainland cities within the Greater Bay Area.

         Regarding the Elderly Dental Assistance Programme (EDAP) funded by the Community Care Fund, the services under the programme have been optimised from July 2, 2024 with the essential requirement of fitting removable dentures relaxed. This allows eligible elderly persons to receive dental services specified under the EDAP even if they are not suitable for dentures. This enhancement measure aims to encourage eligible elderly persons to manage dental diseases at an early stage by opting for preventive and curative dental services, thereby retaining their natural teeth as much as possible and avoiding tooth extractions and denture fittings. To further encourage the elderly persons to apply for services under the EDAP, the Health Bureau (HHB) is promoting the above programme through district service units. The implementing agent has held briefing sessions to introduce the EDAP to dentists and encourage their participation. Apart from strengthening its communication with the implementing agent, the HHB has taken measures to ensure that improvements have been made to the EDAP implementation, including enhancing the eligibility checking mechanism to cover all eligibility criteria, publishing a list of participating dentists and dental clinics, and revising the guidelines provided to service units to specify the appointment scheduling process for applicants who have not indicated their preferred dentist and dental clinic. To expedite the processing of long outstanding cases, the implementing agent has amended the guidelines issued to dentists and dental clinics to clearly include the time limit for claiming fees, and has increased manpower and enhanced computer performance.

         Based on the recommendations of the Working Group on Oral Health and Dental Care, the Government will strive to develop and promote primary dental care services in the future to help citizens manage their oral health, and to put prevention, early identification, and timely intervention of dental diseases into practice. The Government will also explore how to continue developing appropriate dental care services targeted at the underprivileged groups, including persons with financial difficulties, persons with disabilities or special needs and high risk groups. The target of the Working Group is to issue the Final Report before the end of its term by late 2024, and to present to the Government recommendations on implementing various policy directions and the development of dental services.

         Regarding Provision and monitoring of Rehabus services, the Labour and Welfare Bureau (LWB) and the Transport Department (TD) have actively followed up on the comments and recommendations made by the Audit Commission and the PAC on the provision and monitoring of Rehabus services.

         The TD is collecting data on the travelling needs of persons with disabilities through the Rehabus operators (the operators) for assessing the demand for Rehabus services. The LWB will review the policy and models of service delivery of Rehabus services upon receipt of relevant data and assessment. The TD is also reviewing the existing arrangement of signing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the operators and considering the adoption of other legally binding regulatory approaches for more effective monitoring of Rehabus services.

         To monitor the performance of the operators, the TD implemented various measures to ensure the operators’ strict compliance with the requirements stipulated in MOUs, including convening meetings of the Rehabus Management Committee and the Users’ Liaison Group as required, submitting the financial documents in a timely manner, etc. The TD also increased its regular meetings with the operators from once every quarter to once a month, and will conduct service reviews on an annual basis and set additional performance pledges.

         Regarding the procurement of vehicles, the TD updated the relevant procurement guidelines with the operators and formulated an action checklist to ensure that staff concerned strictly comply with the relevant procurement requirements and procedures.

         As regards the provision of scheduled route service, the TD is closely monitoring the operator’s review of the existing services and progress of route consolidation. In addition, as per the TD’s advice, the operator has provided connecting services to nearby railway stations or interchanges since September 2024 as an option for applicants who have been waiting for the service for some time. This arrangement will help reduce the number of applicants for the service, hence will shorten the waiting time as well.

         As for the provision of dial-a-ride (DAR) service, the TD urged the operator to step up its efforts in recruiting drivers. The shortage of drivers has improved, and the rate of rejected orders of DAR service due to insufficient drivers also dropped. The TD is also closely monitoring the operator’s adoption of the new integrated computer system in arranging shared-use service, with a view to exploring the feasibility of further enhancing the shared-use arrangement.

         Regarding the provision of feeder service, the TD reviewed with the operator the hospital routes and recreational routes with low patronage, and will continue to consolidate and enhance the service to improve operational efficiency. Subject to the manpower arrangement of drivers, the TD is also exploring with the operator the feasibility of further shortening the booking time of recreational route service.  Furthermore, the TD explored with the operators the setting of a limit on the maximum number of carers for DAR service and feeder service, and will consult the stakeholders in due course. The TD will continue to monitor the operator’s implementation of various service enhancement pledges, increase the number of monitoring surveys, step up spot checks on the operator and accounting records, etc.

         President, I would like to thank the PAC again for its efforts and suggestions. The B/Ds concerned will strictly adhere to their responses and implement various improvement measures as set out in the GM with full efforts.

         Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From nail-standing to managing emotions: “Youth of Moscow” will hold a series of events in a multi-format space

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The project “Youth of Moscow” opens a new program “Megapolis of your ideas”. It includes educational and entertainment events aimed at developing creativity and forming useful skills. These are various master classes, lectures and a board game championship. They will be held at the site of the multi-format space of the project.

    “As part of the survey “Moscow – the youth capital of Russia” we were able to learn even more about what events are interesting to our youth. Based on the data received, a new program was formed that satisfies the main interests of the children. Now they will be able to find even more opportunities and develop in the areas that they themselves have chosen,” noted

    Ekaterina Dragunova, Chairman of the City Committee for Public Relations and Youth Policy.

    The events of the “Megapolis of Your Ideas” program are prepared taking into account the interests of young city dwellers. Thus, within the framework of the “Life in Balance” direction, dedicated to a healthy lifestyle, a series of thematic master classes will be held, for example, on nail-standing and managing emotions. In addition, everyone will be able to meet with experts and take part in discussions on such topics as positive thinking, developing self-discipline and motivation.

    The “Code of the Future” direction will be dedicated to self-development. Guests will enjoy lectures from experts on the following topics: finances and resources, idea generation, working with artificial intelligence, and others.

    The “Connections on Connection” direction will help young city dwellers make new acquaintances. They will join a board game championship, including mafia, jenga and monopoly. In addition, the organizers have prepared master classes on modeling, self-care and self-defense, as well as meetings dedicated to films and computer games.

    You can try your hand at creativity at master classes on linocut, painting clay pots, dancing and playing musical instruments, which will be held as part of the “Art of Being Yourself” direction.

    Sergei Sobyanin: The Youth of Moscow project is four years old

    The program will begin on October 24 at 6:00 PM with a hip-hop master class. It will be conducted by professional dancer Anna Kuzminkova. Pre-registration is required. by link.

    On October 28 at 18:00 there will be a lesson by nailingThe leader will help participants overcome their fears and gently enter into the practice.

    On October 31 at 6:00 p.m., everyone is invited to a hip-hop master class by Vladislav Falileev, winner of the title “Mr. Moscow Student 2023”. He will show beginner dancers a few simple moves and learn choreographic combinations with them. To participate, you must pre-register by link.

    Previously, the City of Assignments project conducted a survey called “Moscow — the youth capital of Russia.” Young residents could share their opinions about what kind of events they are interested in, where they most often find information about them, and when it is more convenient for them to attend them.

    Based on the voting results, key areas of interest to young people were selected: healthy lifestyle, expanding the circle of acquaintances (networking meetings), new knowledge and creativity. They became the basis for the program “Megapolis of your ideas”. You can take part in it for free, preliminary registration is required on the portal.

    The organizer of the series of events is the project “Youth of Moscow” of the city Committee on Public Relations and Youth Policy. The project helps identify and implement the requests of the capital’s residents. During its work, more than 3.5 thousand events were organized, in which over two million people took part.

    You can find out more about the opportunities for young Muscovites on the portal “Youth of Moscow” and project pages in social networks.

    The “City of Tasks” project has been operating since 2022. With its help, residents of the capital can monitor the work of city services, participate in environmental, sports and other events. The project is being developed by the State Institution “New Management Technologies” and the city Department of Information Technology.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145641073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin told how administrators are being prepared for work in Moscow medical institutions

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The My Administrator project has been running for four years. It first started working in outpatient clinics, and then in outpatient oncology centers, hospital admissions departments, and flagship emergency centers. About the project and the people who are bringing it to life, in his blog Sergei Sobyanin.

    “Since the first days of work, the calling card of Moscow public service centers “My Documents” has been sincere service. And four years ago, friendly, responsive administrators, capable of finding an approach to solving any problem, came to the city’s healthcare institutions,” the Mayor of Moscow wrote.

    Today, more than two thousand administrators work in 347 buildings of medical organizations in the city. Specialists help patients understand the work of the unified medical information and analytical system, register with a polyclinic, and sign up for examinations. They also maintain contact with relatives and resolve many other organizational and everyday issues. In total, over four years, administrators have come to the aid of patients more than 195 million times.

    To become an administrator, you first need to work in the My Documents offices: hone your skills in confident and friendly communication with people, immerse yourself in the corporate culture of government service centers and, finally, understand whether all this suits you.

    Then you need to undergo training at the educational center “Academy of Sincere Service”. Here, future administrators are introduced to the specifics of work in clinics, flagship centers and admissions departments, their proactive behavior skills are developed, and they are also taught options for solving non-standard situations. And only after that can they begin to perform their duties in medical institutions.

    Guided by the principle of “people first” that was laid down in multifunctional centers, administrators strive to devote time to each patient. They already have many good stories in their collection.

    Marina Grigoryan, an administrator at the City Clinical Hospital No. 67 named after L.A. Vorokhobov, told about one of them. One day, a neurosurgeon approached her and asked her to help a patient. The girl lost consciousness on the street, and passersby called an ambulance. Sofia (that was the patient’s name) came to visit her boyfriend from another city and went for a run, where everything happened. The girl did not remember her friend’s phone number or the address of his apartment. And only after remembering his nickname on a social network, Sofia was able to write a message using the administrator’s account. The young man came to pick her up, and everything ended well.

    “Once a patient with a head injury was admitted to the emergency room. This in itself is very unpleasant. But it was clear that the woman was upset about something else. After talking to her, I found out that the patient was in a hurry to catch the bus, slipped and fell, hitting her head hard. Because of this, she will not be able to meet her grandchildren who came to visit and spend the long-awaited weekend with them. Then we helped her call her grandchildren via video link. And after she was discharged, we called a taxi home,” Olga Shibaeva, an administrator at the V.P. Demikhov Hospital, shared her story.

    Tatyana Belikova, administrator of Diagnostic Center #3, Branch #1, told how, while working in the information terminal area, she was helping a visitor reschedule her appointment for a fluorography and noticed that the woman’s hands were shaking and her face was sweating. When asked about her health, she replied that she was dizzy and had difficulty breathing. But the woman was in a hurry to get the examination done quickly so that she could make it to work. But Tatyana saw that the person needed urgent help. She promised to reschedule the fluorography for another time and insisted on an immediate visit to the doctor on duty. And as it turned out, she was right: the woman began to lose consciousness. She was immediately seated in a wheelchair and taken to the doctor. It was a heart attack. The clinic’s cardiologist provided emergency assistance and gave the order to call an ambulance. The patient was hospitalized and given the necessary treatment.

    And Elina Evgrafova, an administrator at Branch No. 4 of City Children’s Polyclinic No. 10, recalled how during her shift a father with five small children came to the doctor on duty. He looked confused and did not understand what to do. Elina met the family at the entrance, taught the children how to use the shoe cover machines, helped them undress and make an appointment with the doctor. And then she and the children, while they were waiting for an appointment, played “The Swan Flew.” The kids were happy, and the head of the family was very grateful for the sincere and friendly attitude. The visit to the polyclinic turned out to be not only successful, but also fun.

    Sergei Sobyanin spoke about the introduction of sincere service in healthcare institutions

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11917050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious assault at Elizabeth

    Source: South Australia Police

    Three teenagers have been arrested following an assault at Elizabeth this afternoon.

    Just after 2.30pm on Wednesday 23 October, police were called to a shopping centre on Elizabeth Way following reports of a disturbance between a group of youths in the food court.

    ​During the altercation, a boy was allegedly stabbed in the torso.

    ​A 18 -year-old boy was taken to hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

    ​Police located the suspects nearby.

    Three teenage boys have been arrested, 17-year-old from Salisbury East, a 16-year-old boy from Brahma Lodge and a 14-year-old from Elizabeth Vale.

    ​They are expected to be charged later today.

    ​Police are investigating the incident and will review CCTV footage to identify other people involved in the assault.

    ​There was no disruption caused to centres trading.

    Police ask if anyone witnessed the assault to please call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sampo plc’s share buybacks 22 October 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 23 October 2024 at 8:30 am EEST

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks 22 October 2024

    On 22 October 2024, Sampo plc (business code 0142213-3, LEI 743700UF3RL386WIDA22) has acquired its own A shares (ISIN code FI4000552500) as follows:                

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks Aggregated daily volume (in number of shares) Daily weighted average price of the purchased shares* Market (MIC Code)
      5,548 41.04 AQEU        
      42,058 41.04 CEUX
      1,009 41.02 TQEX
      43,104 41.05 XHEL
    TOTAL 91,719 41.05  

    *rounded to two decimals                

    On 17 June 2024, Sampo announced a share buyback programme of up to a maximum of EUR 400 million in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052. On 16 September 2024, the Board of Directors of Sampo plc resolved to increase the share buyback programme to EUR 475 million. The programme, which started on 18 June 2024, is based on the authorisation granted by Sampo’s Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2024.

    After the disclosed transactions, the company owns in total 9,134,466 Sampo A shares representing 1.66 per cent of the total number of shares in Sampo plc, taking the issuance of shares on 16 September 2024 into account.

    Details of each transaction are included as an appendix of this announcement.

    On behalf of Sampo plc,
    Morgan Stanley

    For further information, please contact:

    Sami Taipalus
    Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    The principal media
    FIN-FSA
    DEN-FSA
    http://www.sampo.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ringkjøbing Landbobank’s quarterly report for the first three quarters of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    Euronext Dublin
    London Stock Exchange
    Other stakeholders

    23 October 2024

    Ringkjøbing Landbobank’s quarterly report for the first three quarters of 2024

    The bank’s board of directors and general management have today approved the quarterly report for the first three quarters of 2024.

    With net profit of DKK 1.77 billion for the first three quarters of 2024, the bank specifies the expected results for net profit for 2024 to the top of the DKK 2,000-2,350 million range.

    Core earnings

    (DKK million) Q1-Q3 2024 Q1-Q3 2023 2023 2022 2021 2020
    Total core income 3,067 2,785 3,828 2,862 2,433 2,179
    Total expenses and depreciation 761 708 963 891 817 788
    Core earnings before impairment charges 2,306 2,077 2,865 1,971 1,616 1,391
    Impairment charges for loans etc. +2 -1 -1 -2 -68 -223
    Core earnings 2,308 2,076 2,864 1,969 1,548 1,168
    Result for the portfolio etc. +56 -36 -7 -69 +7 -9
    Amortisation etc. on intangible assets 15 15 20 20 17 15
    Tax 579 484 682 385 309 224
    Net profit 1,770 1,541 2,155 1,495 1,229 920

    Highlights of the first three quarters of 2024

    • The net profit is DKK 1,770 million, equivalent to a 22% p.a. return on equity
    • Earnings per share – measured on net profit – increase by 20% to DKK 69
    • Core income increases by 10% to DKK 3,067 million
    • Costs increase by 8%, and the cost/income ratio decreases to 24.8%
    • In the first three quarters of 2024, the bank carried impairment charges of DKK 2 million to income based on strong credit quality while, in the first nine months of 2024, the total management estimates increased by DKK 52 million 
    • Highly satisfactory increase in customer numbers and growth of 9% in loans, 4% in deposits and 14% in funds in custody accounts
    • The bank’s brands remain highly ranked in the annual Voxmeter Image survey where the Ringkjøbing Landbobank brand takes first place.
    • The expected result for 2024 is specified to be at the upper end of the upwardly adjusted DKK 2,000-2,350 million range

    Yours sincerely

    Ringkjøbing Landbobank

    John Fisker
    CEO

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –