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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Reintroduces the Digital Integrity in Democracy Act 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Bill will increase accountability for election-related disinformation 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) led Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) this week in reintroducing the Digital Integrity in Democracy Act, legislation to increase accountability for social media platforms that knowingly host false election administration information. The bill aims to strengthen voting rights protections by carving out a narrow exception from existing legal immunity for social media platforms that intentionally or knowingly amplify election-related misinformation. 
    “Across the country, voting rights are under attack. We see that very clearly on social media, where carefully orchestrated campaigns target voters with false information in an effort to keep them from the ballot box. But social media platforms have been reluctant to intervene and remove this false information, letting these harmful lies live online. They need a reality check,” said Senator Welch. “Our bill seeks to hold social media platforms accountable for intentionally hosting false election administration information to ensure every voter can fairly participate in our democracy.” 
    “Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy. While election disinformation is not new, emerging technologies make it easier to deceive Americans about how to exercise their right to vote,” said Senator Klobuchar. “This legislation will combat efforts intended to disenfranchise voters by holding social media companies accountable for allowing false information on their platforms about voting like when and where to cast a ballot.” 
    “We must crack down on the spread of false information about our elections,” said Senator Merkley. “Preserving a government ‘of, by, and for the people’ depends on protecting voters from the quick, easy spread of misinformation on social media that can jeopardize voters’ ability to exercise their right to vote.” 
    “Falsehoods posted on social media about the time, place and manner of an election, and lies about voter eligibility requirements, are spread with the intent to suppress voter turnout,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud to cosponsor the Digital Integrity in Democracy Act, legislation that would hold large-scale social media companies accountable for removing these types of election falsities. This is a reasonable, balanced approach to protecting voters and our democracy, while also protecting free speech online.” 
    “Disinformation about elections on social media platforms is a threat to our democracy and to the right of all Americans to make their voices heard in our elections,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m glad to join Senator Welch and our colleagues in introducing this legislation to hold social media companies accountable for election disinformation shared on their platforms.” 
    The Digital Integrity in Democracy Act is endorsed by Common Cause and Stand Up America. 
    “All voters deserve access to trusted information about our elections. However, when social media companies knowingly allow and amplify false election information on their platforms, voters are left in the dark,” said Ishan Mehta, Common Cause’s Media and Democracy Program Director. “Common Cause thanks Senator Welch for introducing the Digital Integrity in Democracy Act to ensure that voters can get trusted information about elections when making their voices heard, and we encourage Congress to quickly pass this legislation.” 
    “Recent decisions at Meta show that social media companies do not want to take responsibility for the content on their platforms. They don’t care if misinformation and disinformation flow rampantly – they’re profiting from it. Instead, they want to exploit users as unpaid labor to do the fact-checking without any real oversight (i.e. Community Notes on Twitter/X and Facebook),” said Dayanita Ramesh, Senior Social Media Director at Stand Up America. “The truth still matters, particularly when it comes to our elections and our freedom to vote. Senator Welch’s Digital Integrity in Democracy Act would finally hold social media companies accountable for spreading lies about election information and voting access. We applaud Senator Welch’s leadership in demanding accountability from these platforms and ensuring the American people have the accurate information they need to exercise their freedom to vote.” 
    Learn more about the Digital Integrity in Democracy Act. 
    Read a section-by-section summary and full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Low-carbon liquid fuels of the Future Made In Australia

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    The Albanese Government is delivering $250 million to accelerate the pace of Australia’s growing domestic Low Carbon Liquid Fuels (LCLF) industry.

    This funding is part of the $1.7 billion Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund and will be provided as grants to support pre-commercial innovation, demonstration and deployment.

    Low carbon liquid fuels can be produced sustainably from waste, biomass such as agricultural feedstocks, or renewable hydrogen.

    Australia’s domestic LCLF industry will focus on supplying sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel in liquid fuel-reliant sectors, including transport (aviation, heavy vehicle, rail and maritime), mining, agriculture and construction.

    The development of low carbon fuels will drive economic growth and jobs in regional areas, including supporting diversification in agriculture, making good use of excess feedstock from crops, sugarcane and waste products such as tallow.

    CSIRO projects that a LCLF industry could contribute between AUD $6 billion to $12 billion annually in direct economic benefits, with greater gains from regional co-benefits including diversified income streams for farmers and regional communities.

    LCLFs not only help decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors of the economy but provide Australia with sovereign capability and resilience at a time of increasing international uncertainty. 

    Alongside the $250 million for low carbon liquid fuels, the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund is providing $500 million for clean energy technology manufacturing capabilities including electrolysers, batteries and wind towers.

    The Fund – a key element of the Future Made in Australia plan – will ensure Australia can maximise the economic and industrial benefits of the international move to net zero and secure Australia’s place in a changing global and strategic landscape. Funding is administered by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

    The investment in a wider domestic LCLF industry builds on the momentum of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Funding Initiative.

    This Sustainable Aviation Fuel Funding Initiative has seen the Albanese Government invest in $33.5 million across five projects to date, including LCLF production facilities in Bundaberg and Townsville, and enabling the supply of sustainable aviation fuel at Brisbane Airport.

    Funding from the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund is subject to the legislated Future Made in Australia Community Benefits Principles. The Albanese Government established these principles to ensure public investment and the private investment it attracts, has a direct and tangible benefit for local workers and businesses.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen:

    “The Australian Government is backing clean, green low carbon liquid fuels as an important part of our move towards net zero and long-term fuel security.

    “Australia has the know how and skills to meet the crucial task of decarbonising hard to abate sectors such as aviation, heavy transport and mining that rely on liquid fuels.

    “Investing in a Future Made in Australia means delivering the industries that will provide high end jobs, many in the regions, for future generations.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We know that industries vital to our national prosperity, like the transportation of people and goods across our vast land, are carbon intensive and hard to abate.

    “That’s why we’re investing hundreds of millions of dollars to develop – right here in Australia – the low carbon liquid fuels of the future that will reduce their environmental impact without preventing their operation or expansion.

    “We have all the ingredients in Australia to be a global clean energy superpower, and the Future Made in Australia fund will help bring that potential to reality.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Budget 2025: Investing in Alberta’s future | Budget 2025 : Investir dans l’avenir de l’Alberta

    As Alberta continues work to address increasing domestic and international economic pressures, Budget 2025 works to strengthen Alberta’s economy. This budget helps build communities, secure Alberta’s southern border and boost investments in the province’s economic future.

    “While we work closely with partners to find solutions to a possible trade conflict, we will continue our work to make sure Alberta’s economy is strong – in and outside of the energy sector – so that we can manage any turbulence that comes our way. Budget 2025 carves our path forward in the face of this uncertainty.”

    Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance

    Budget 2025: Supporting a strong workforce

    Alberta’s workforce is the backbone of the provincial economy. Budget 2025 continues the commitment to training and developing a skilled and resilient labour force to further grow Alberta’s economy and help businesses succeed, including: 

    • $26.1 billion over three years from the Capital Plan, to support about 26,500 direct and 12,000 indirect jobs each year through 2027-28.
    • $135 million for skilled trade programs such as apprenticeship and adult learning initiatives to help Albertans gain the skills and training needed for successful careers, and support access to job opportunities.
    • $2 billion in 2025-26 to support and expand early learning and child-care system so parents and caregivers can participate in training, education or work opportunities.  

    Budget 2025: Securing our borders

    • Alberta’s government is committed to being a good neighbour and trading partner, and part of this commitment involves taking measures to secure the Alberta-US border. Budget 2025 includes $29 million in 2025-26 for a new Interdiction Patrol Team within the Alberta Sheriffs to tackle illegal drug and gun smuggling, human trafficking, apprehension of persons attempting to cross the border illegally, and other illegal activities along Alberta’s international land border. Budget 2025 also includes a $15 million investment over two years for three new vehicle inspection stations located near borders to the USA.

    Budget 2025: Investing in post-secondary education

    Budget 2025 invests a total of $7.4 billion in post-secondary education, with an operating budget of $6.6 billion in 2025-26. This includes:

    • $78 million per year over the next three years to create more seats in apprenticeship classes across the province to build skilled trades and apprenticeship education that will respond to the needs of industry, support the economy and connect Albertans with jobs.
    • $113 million to support greater demand for scholarships and the Alberta Student Grant, with $60 million funded from the Alberta Heritage Scholarship Fund.
    • $4 million to the First Nations Colleges Grant which is distributed equally across five colleges in rural and remote Indigenous communities.

    “Our government is ensuring that Alberta students have the skills and training they need to meet the needs of today while preparing for the economy of the future. Budget 2025 makes foundational investments to meet the challenge of a rapidly growing population while supporting a sustainable post-secondary education system.”

    Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education

    Budget 2025: Building communities

    Alberta’s vibrant communities make Alberta the best place in Canada to live, work and raise a family. Budget 2025 invests in stronger communities across Alberta, including:

    • $17.2 million to increase grants made to municipalities in lieu of property taxes on government-owned property to 75 per cent, up from the current 50 per cent. By next year, the province will cover 100 per cent of the amount that would be paid if the property was taxable.
    • $820 million this year and $2.5 billion over three years in Local Government Fiscal Framework capital funding to help fund local infrastructure priorities.

    Budget 2025: Supporting trade and diversification

    Alberta continues to champion economic growth and policies that support productivity. Through Budget 2025, Alberta’s government will continue to build on current successes through:

    • Attracting more investment through low corporate income taxes. At eight per cent, Alberta’s corporate income tax rate is 30 per cent lower than the next lowest province.
    • Providing greater incentive for small- and medium-sized firms that increase their spending on research and development, with Alberta’s Innovation Employment Grant.
    • Promoting Alberta as a reliable partner in supporting North American and global energy security to investors. The province will optimize new and existing infrastructure to access new markets for Alberta’s energy and mineral resources.
    • Supporting Alberta’s agriculture producers and value-added processors, addressing barriers to trade by cultivating export markets, and working to increase market access for Alberta products.
    • Reinforcing Alberta as a critical contributor to North American energy security by continuing to advocate for our remarkable energy sector across Canada, the U.S., Germany, Japan and the rest of the world.

    Budget 2025: Investing in business and industry

    Budget 2025 continues to find ways to help Alberta’s economy grow through investments in business and industry and help our economy grow, including:

    • Support to attract investment in Alberta’s energy and mineral resource sector to accelerate opportunities in emerging resources.
    • $45 million over three years for the Investment and Growth Fund to attract investment into Alberta’s economy.
    • $1.8 million in Western Crop Innovations for industry-leading crop research.
    • $780,000 to support small- and medium-sized meat processors.
    • $3.1 million for the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine to expand toward a full-service veterinary diagnostic laboratory. This will give livestock producers and vets access to quicker, more affordable livestock diagnostics closer to home.

    “Budget 2025 builds a stronger Alberta by growing industries, creating high-quality jobs and expanding opportunities for workers and families. With strategic investments in innovation, infrastructure and workforce development, Alberta is rising to the challenge, strengthening our province for many years to come.”

    Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

    “We are advancing cutting-edge research in agriculture and supporting small and medium-sized businesses. Additionally, we are strengthening our agricultural infrastructure, ensuring quicker and more affordable services for livestock producers and veterinarians. We’re supporting innovation, attracting investment, and building a resilient economy for the future.”

    RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Related information

    • Budget 2025

    Related news

    • Budget 2025: Meeting the challenge (Feb 27, 2025)
    • Budget 2025: Meeting the challenge in health and education (Feb 27, 2025)

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    • Watch the Budget address
    • Watch the news conference
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    Le budget de 2025 relève le défi de l’incertitude en matière de commerce et de sécurité en mettant l’accent sur l’économie.

    À mesure que l’Alberta continue de répondre aux pressions économiques intérieures et internationales, le budget de 2025 vise à renforcer l’économie albertaine. Il contribue à bâtir des communautés, à assurer la sécurité de la frontière au sud de la province et à renforcer les investissements dans notre avenir économique.

    « Alors que nous travaillons en étroite collaboration avec des partenaires pour trouver des solutions à un différend commercial potentiel, nous poursuivons notre travail pour nous assurer que l’économie de l’Alberta est forte, dans le secteur de l’énergie et ailleurs, afin de pouvoir gérer toute perturbation. Le budget de 2025 trace la voie à suivre face à cette incertitude. »

    Nate Horner, président du Conseil du Trésor et ministre des Finances

    Budget 2025 : Soutenir une main-d’œuvre solide

    La main-d’œuvre albertaine est l’épine dorsale de l’économie provinciale. Le budget de 2025 maintient l’engagement envers la formation et le perfectionnement d’une main-d’œuvre qualifiée et résiliente de sorte à faire croître l’économie et aider les entreprises à réussir : 

    • 26,1 milliards de dollars sur trois ans provenant du plan d’immobilisations afin d’appuyer environ 26 500 emplois directs et 12 000 emplois indirects chaque année jusqu’en 2027-2028.
    • 135 millions de dollars pour des programmes de métiers spécialisés, comme des initiatives d’apprentissages et d’éducation des adultes de sorte à aider les Albertains à acquérir les compétences et à suivre la formation nécessaires pour mener des carrières fructueuses, ainsi qu’à soutenir l’accès aux possibilités d’emploi.
    • 2 milliards de dollars en 2025-26 pour appuyer et élargir le système d’apprentissage et de garde des jeunes enfants afin que les parents et les gardiens tirent parti de possibilités de formation, d’éducation ou d’emploi.  

    Budget 2025 : Assurer la sécurité de nos frontières

    • Le gouvernement de l’Alberta est résolu à être un bon voisin et un bon partenaire commercial, ce qui implique la prise de mesures pour assurer la sécurité de la frontière entre l’Alberta et les États-Unis. Le budget de 2025 prévoit 29 millions de dollars en 2025-26 pour une nouvelle équipe de « patrouille d’interdiction » (Interdiction Patrol Team) qui fait partie des shérifs de l’Alberta et sera chargée de lutter contre le trafic de drogue et d’armes et la traite de personnes, d’appréhender les personnes qui tentent de traverser la frontière illégalement et de surveiller d’autres activités illégales le long de la frontière internationale de la province. Le budget de 2025 comprend en outre un investissement de 15 millions de dollars sur deux ans pour trois nouveaux postes d’inspection de véhicules près de la frontière des États-Unis.

    Budget 2025 : Investir dans l’enseignement postsecondaire

    Le budget de 2025 investit en tout 7,4 milliards de dollars dans l’enseignement postsecondaire, le budget d’exploitation étant de 6,6 milliards de dollars en 2025-2026. Cette somme comprend :

    • 78 millions de dollars par années sur trois ans pour créer un plus grand nombre de places dans les cours d’apprentissage de toute la province en vue de renforcer les métiers spécialisés et les formations en apprentissage qui répondront aux besoins de l’industrie, soutiendront l’économie et mettront les Albertains en rapport avec des emplois.
    • 113 millions de dollars pour contribuer à satisfaire à la demande croissante de bourses et appuyer la bourse aux étudiants de l’Alberta (Alberta Student Grant), dont 60 millions de dollars provenant de l’Alberta Heritage Scholarship Fund.
    • 4 millions de dollars pour la subvention aux collèges des Premières Nations (First Nations Colleges Grant), cette somme étant répartie également entre cinq collèges dans des communautés autochtones rurales et éloignées.

    « Notre gouvernement veille à ce que les étudiants en Alberta possèdent les compétences et la formation nécessaires pour répondre aux besoins actuels, tout en se préparant à l’économie future. Le budget de 2025 réalise des investissements fondamentaux de sorte à relever les défis posés par une population en pleine croissance, tout en appuyant un système d’éducation postsecondaire durable. »

    Rajan Sawhney, ministre de l’Enseignement postsecondaire

    Budget 2025 : Bâtir des communautés

    Les communautés dynamiques de notre province font de l’Alberta le meilleur endroit au Canada où vivre, travailler et élever une famille. Le budget de 2025 investit dans des communautés plus fortes partout en Alberta :

    • 17,2 millions de dollars pour augmenter de 50 % à 75 % les subventions accordées aux municipalités en remplacement d’impôts fonciers à l’égard des propriétés qui appartiennent au gouvernement. D’ici l’année prochaine, la province couvrira 100 $ du montant qui serait versé si la propriété était imposable.
    • 820 millions de dollars cette année et 2,5 milliards de dollars sur trois ans en dépenses en capital du cadre fiscal des administrations locales (Local Government Fiscal Framework) afin d’aider à financer les travaux d’infrastructures prioritaires.

    Budget 2025 : Soutenir le commerce et la diversification

    L’Alberta continue de favoriser la croissance économique et des politiques qui appuient la productivité. Par l’entremise du budget de 2025, le gouvernement de l’Alberta continuera de tirer parti des réussites actuelles en faisant ce qui suit :

    • Attirer plus d’investissements grâce à un faible taux d’imposition sur le revenu des sociétés. En Alberta, le taux de 8 % est de 30 % inférieur à celui de la province qui se classe deuxième.
    • Offrir de plus grands stimulants aux petites et moyennes entreprises qui augmentent leurs dépenses en recherche et développement, par l’entremise de la subvention pour l’emploi et l’innovation (Alberta’s Innovation Employment Grant).
    • Promouvoir l’Alberta en tant que partenaire fiable pour soutenir la sécurité énergétique nord-américaine et mondiale auprès des investisseurs. La province optimisera les infrastructures nouvelles et existantes afin d’accéder à de nouveaux marchés pour les ressources énergétiques et minérales de l’Alberta.
    • Soutenir les producteurs agricoles albertains et les transformateurs à valeur ajoutée de l’Alberta, s’attaquer aux obstacles au commerce en cultivant les marchés d’exportation et s’employer à améliorer l’accès au marché pour les produits de l’Alberta.
    • Renforcer la position de l’Alberta en tant que contributrice essentielle à la sécurité énergétique de l’Amérique du Nord en continuant de promouvoir notre secteur énergétique remarquable au Canada, aux États-Unis, en Allemagne, au Japon et dans le reste du monde.

    Budget 2025 : Investir dans les entreprises et les industries

    Le budget de 2025 continue de trouver des moyens de favoriser la croissance de l’économie albertaine en investissant dans les entreprises et les industries :

    • Soutien visant à attirer des investissements dans le secteur de l’énergie et des ressources minérales de sorte à accélérer les possibilités dans le domaine des ressources émergentes.
    • 45 millions de dollars sur trois ans pour le fonds d’investissement et de croissance (Investment and Growth Fund) en vue d’attirer des investissements dans l’économie albertaine.
    • 1,8 million de dollars versés à Western Crop Innovations au titre de la recherche de pointe sur les cultures.
    • 780 000 $ pour appuyer les petites et moyennes entreprises de transformation de viande.
    • 3,1 millions de dollars pour la Faculté de médecine vétérinaire de l’Université de Calgary en vue d’un agrandissement menant à un laboratoire de diagnostic vétérinaire complet. Les éleveurs de bétail et les vétérinaires auront alors accès à un diagnostic plus rapide, plus abordable et plus proche.

    « Le budget de 2025 bâtit une Alberta plus forte en développant les industries, en créant des emplois de haute qualité et en élargissant les possibilités offertes aux travailleurs et aux familles. Grâce à des investissements stratégiques en innovation, infrastructure et perfectionnement de la main-d’œuvre, l’Alberta relève le défi pour être plus forte pendant de nombreuses années à venir. »

    Matt Jones, ministre de l’Emploi, de l’Économie et du Commerce

    « Nous faisons progresser la recherche de point en agriculture et nous appuyons les petites et moyennes entreprises. De plus, nous renforçons notre infrastructure agricole pour offrir des services plus rapides et plus abordables aux éleveurs de bétail et aux vétérinaires. Nous soutenons l’innovation, nous attirons les investissements et nous bâtissons une économie résiliente pour l’avenir. »

    RJ Sigurdson, ministre de l’Agriculture et de l’Irrigation

    Le budget de 2025 relève le défi auquel fait face l’Alberta grâce à des investissements continus dans l’éducation et la santé, une baisse des impôts pour les familles et un accent sur l’économie.

    Renseignements connexes

    • Budget 2025

    Nouvelles connexes

    • Budget 2025: Meeting the challenge | Budget 2025 : Relever le défi (27 février 2025)
    • Budget 2025: Meeting the challenge in health and education | Budget 2025 :  Relever le défi dans la santé et l’éducation (27 février 2025)

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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: $1.1 billion for a safer, more efficient Western Freeway

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, boosting our nation’s productivity and connecting our region’s communities by investing in our highway network. 

    We’re investing $1.1 billion to upgrade Victoria’s Western Freeway – the major highway connecting Melbourne to Adelaide, and our regions to both cities. 

    This brings our total investment in the Western Freeway corridor to $2.1 billion.

    Approximately 86,000 vehicles travel the Western Freeway stretch between Melton and Caroline Springs every single day, with this figure expected to rise to approximately 113,000 by 2031.

    It’s a critical transport route for passengers and freight, which links with major freight routes throughout the state including Midland, Sunraysia, Pyrenees, Henty and Wimmera Highways.

    The investment will go towards improving capacity and safety along the freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs, with upgrades to be identified and prioritised between the Australian and Victorian governments from the jointly funded business case being finalised by the Victorian Government. 

    $100 million will be allocated towards planning and early works to upgrade the intersection of the freeway with Brewery Tap Road in Warrenheip.

    In addition, we’re providing $6.1 million towards two bridge strengthening upgrades between Stawell and the South Australian border. 

    The Albanese and Allan Governments will undertake bridge strengthening works at the Dimboola Bridge over the Melbourne-Adelaide Railway Line and Dadswells Bridge over the Mt William Creek Floodplain, reducing transit times and providing better efficiency of freight movements between rural industries and manufacturers, while allowing for industry growth and regional development.

    Construction of these bridge upgrades is expected to commence in 2025 and end by 2026. 

    The Albanese Government remains dedicated to working for all Australians by delivering nationally significant infrastructure projects that enhance productivity and resilience, improve liveability, and promote sustainability.  

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We’re investing in the transport projects that matter most to Victorians, delivering a rail link to Melbourne Airport, fixing our regional and suburban roads, and strengthening our busiest freeways. 

    “We’re investing $2.1 billion in the Western Freeway corridor, $7 billion in the Melbourne Airport rail link, and $1 billion in a suburban road blitz because we care about our cities, our suburbs and our regions. 

    “The Liberals and Nationals starved Victorians of infrastructure funding over their decade in government, and we won’t let that happen again.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Gorton Brendan O’Connor: 

    “Those who regularly travel on this stretch of the Western Freeway know full well how much this $1 billion investment is needed. 

    “The Liberals ignored this for nine years while the traffic got heavier and the road conditions worsened. 

    “Only Labor Governments invest in the west.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $1.1 billion for a safer, more efficient Western Freeway

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Australia’s future, boosting our nation’s productivity and connecting our region’s communities by investing in our highway network. 

    We’re investing $1.1 billion to upgrade Victoria’s Western Freeway – the major highway connecting Melbourne to Adelaide, and our regions to both cities. 

    This brings our total investment in the Western Freeway corridor to $2.1 billion.

    Approximately 86,000 vehicles travel the Western Freeway stretch between Melton and Caroline Springs every single day, with this figure expected to rise to approximately 113,000 by 2031.

    It’s a critical transport route for passengers and freight, which links with major freight routes throughout the state including Midland, Sunraysia, Pyrenees, Henty and Wimmera Highways.

    The investment will go towards improving capacity and safety along the freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs, with upgrades to be identified and prioritised between the Australian and Victorian governments from the jointly funded business case being finalised by the Victorian Government. 

    $100 million will be allocated towards planning and early works to upgrade the intersection of the freeway with Brewery Tap Road in Warrenheip.

    In addition, we’re providing $6.1 million towards two bridge strengthening upgrades between Stawell and the South Australian border. 

    The Albanese and Allan Governments will undertake bridge strengthening works at the Dimboola Bridge over the Melbourne-Adelaide Railway Line and Dadswells Bridge over the Mt William Creek Floodplain, reducing transit times and providing better efficiency of freight movements between rural industries and manufacturers, while allowing for industry growth and regional development.

    Construction of these bridge upgrades is expected to commence in 2025 and end by 2026. 

    The Albanese Government remains dedicated to working for all Australians by delivering nationally significant infrastructure projects that enhance productivity and resilience, improve liveability, and promote sustainability.  

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

    “We’re investing in the transport projects that matter most to Victorians, delivering a rail link to Melbourne Airport, fixing our regional and suburban roads, and strengthening our busiest freeways. 

    “We’re investing $2.1 billion in the Western Freeway corridor, $7 billion in the Melbourne Airport rail link, and $1 billion in a suburban road blitz because we care about our cities, our suburbs and our regions. 

    “The Liberals and Nationals starved Victorians of infrastructure funding over their decade in government, and we won’t let that happen again.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Gorton Brendan O’Connor: 

    “Those who regularly travel on this stretch of the Western Freeway know full well how much this $1 billion investment is needed. 

    “The Liberals ignored this for nine years while the traffic got heavier and the road conditions worsened. 

    “Only Labor Governments invest in the west.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland’s flood resilience pilot a success

    Source: Auckland Council

    Aucklanders have come together to build flood resilience, with a successful pilot programme proving the power of community action. Their efforts have paved the way for region-wide expansion in 2025, helping more neighbourhoods prepare for future storms.

    As part of Council’s Making Space for Water programme – a response to the 2023 extreme weather events – the pilot focused on promoting partnership, inclusivity, and local leadership to enhance Auckland’s flood resilience.

    Running from September 2023 to December 2024, the pilot:

    • engaged 1,424 volunteers in resilience-building activities, including clearing critical stream blockages

    • partnered with 11 organisations to amplify community leadership

    • delivered 72 community events to improve flood awareness and stormwater management

    • planted 2,512 native plants in the right places to absorb water and reduce erosion.

    Building on this success, 12 community environmental organisations have now been contracted to expand the programme regionwide in 2025 strengthening flood preparedness in at-risk communities by:

    • increasing public workshops to improve flood literacy and understanding of healthy catchments.

    • expanding stream restoration efforts to support stormwater management.

    • strengthening partnerships with mana whenua and local organisations to enhance resilience.

    “The 2023 storms showed that we needed to strengthen community connections and invest in community engagement to foster resilience,” says Tom Mansell, Auckland Council’s Head of Sustainable Partnerships.

    “This initiative ensures communities aren’t just preparing for floods—they’re actively reducing risk through education and local initiatives.”

    Alanah Mullin from EcoMatters is involved in the initiative and highlights the importance of collective action. 

    “Flooding is a growing challenge, but we can all be part of the solution. Restoring waterways and planting the right native plants in the right places can help absorb stormwater and reduce the impact of heavy rain on our communities,” she says.

    “When the city’s drainage system is overwhelmed, healthy streams can play a crucial role in moving excess water to the sea. By working together, we’re making Auckland more resilient—one neighbourhood at a time.”

    Tom Mansell agrees.

    “This initiative shows the power of community-led action. We’re not just responding to past events—we’re building a more resilient Auckland for the future.”

    For more information or to get involved, visit the Auckland Council website. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) and Seven Feathers Casino Resort in Canyonville, OR, Celebrate Successful Deployment of QCI Enterprise Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), a leading provider of advanced data analytics solutions, and Seven Feathers Casino Resort are pleased to announce the successful deployment of the QCI Enterprise Platform. This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in data management and analytics for Seven Feathers Casino Resort, positioning them at the forefront of cutting-edge technology in the gaming and hospitality industry.

    The implementation of the QCI Enterprise Platform at Seven Feathers Casino Resort has been meticulously executed, with all data successfully verified for accuracy and security. This achievement showcases the commitment of both QCI and Seven Feathers Casino Resort to providing the most advanced and reliable data analytics capabilities available.

    Jay Ellenberger, General Manager of Seven Feathers Casino Resort, expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone, stating, “The successful deployment of the QCI Enterprise Platform represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for our guests. With QCI’s innovative solutions, we are able to make more informed decisions, tailor our services, and ultimately elevate the level of satisfaction among our valued patrons.”

    Andrew Cardno, CTO of Quick Custom Intelligence, commented on the partnership, saying, “We are delighted to collaborate with Seven Feathers Casino Resort and support their mission to deliver world-class experiences. Our QCI Enterprise Platform is designed to empower organizations like Seven Feathers with actionable insights derived from data, and we are excited to see our technology driving innovation and success within their operations.”

    The deployment of the QCI Enterprise Platform at Seven Feathers Casino Resort reinforces QCI’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive business growth and enhance customer experiences. This partnership exemplifies how organizations in the gaming and hospitality industry can leverage data analytics to gain a competitive edge and create memorable moments for their guests.

    ABOUT Seven Feathers Casino Resort
    Discover the ultimate getaway at Seven Feathers Casino Resort in Southern Oregon! With a modern gaming floor, award-winning dining, luxurious River Rock Spa, and top-notch entertainment, it’s the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Enjoy a 300-room hotel, heated pool, and exceptional service. Seven Feathers—where fun and comfort meet! Visit us at www.SevenFeathers.com

    ABOUT QCI
    Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI Enterprise Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 250 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and Europe. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $35 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI’s data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Dallas, and Tulsa. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com.

    ABOUT Andrew Cardno
    Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master’s level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew’s innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today’s mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industries—be it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSD—Andrew’s impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew’s work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors.

    Contact:
    Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence
    Phone: 858-349-8354

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New investment in toy libraries to support children with disability

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    The Albanese Government has reinforced its commitment to building a better future for children with disability or development delay by investing another $600,000 in toy libraries.

    Toy libraries offer families and carers an affordable way to borrow toys, puzzles and games that support children’s early learning and development through play.

    With this additional funding, our investment in Toy Libraries Australia now totals $2.3 million, supporting more than 280 toy libraries across the country.

    Today’s announcement will enable 30 toy libraries to extend their opening hours and offer low-sensory borrowing sessions. It will help some toy libraries hold specialised play sessions, train volunteers and buy specific toys, to better include families. A new specialist mobile service will also be set up to support toy libraries across Western Australia.

    Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth visited Unley Toy Libraries in Adelaide, South Australia today, which has a huge range of toys for children with disability.

    “This continued investment reinforces the Albanese Labor Government’s commitment to the early years and supporting Australian children with disability or development delay and their families,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “We know that all children learn through play, and toy libraries really help parents and carers to nurture children’s early development with tools and activities they may not otherwise have access to.

    “Children with disability or developmental delay and their families deserve to have cost-effective and accessible specialist sensory, fine motor and gross motor skill toys for play. This funding will ensure that toy libraries are more accessible across the country and properly equipped for all children.

    “We are proud to support organisations like Toy Libraries Australia, that empower and embrace children with disability to enrich their learning to achieve their full potential.” 

    Toy Libraries Australia CEO, Debbie Williams welcomed the additional Australian Government funding.

    “Families tell us that children with disability need additional support to access a toy library,” Ms Williams said.

    “That could be more space to move around, less sensory stimulus, or one-on-one time with the toy librarian. Additional sessions will allow toy libraries to meet these diverse needs and provide an inclusive and accessible service for all.”

    More than 50,000 families and 80,000 children access toy libraries every year. Memberships are usually as low as $2 a week.

    The facilities mean many families don’t have to buy large ranges of expensive toys for their children.

    The funding is delivering on an election commitment and supports families and children, and their development. It is in line with the Government’s commitment to the Early Years.

    More information on toy libraries is available at the Toy Libraries Australia website.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders, Scott, Schumer, Jeffries, Murray, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect the Rights of American Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, March 5 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, alongside Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Congressional and labor leaders, today reintroduced the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act), comprehensive labor legislation to protect the rights of workers to stand together and bargain for fairer wages, better benefits and safer workplaces. The legislation was renamed in honor of former AFL-CIO President Richard L. Trumka.

    Joining Sanders, Scott, Schumer, Jeffries and Murray on the PRO Act are Sens. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), as well as 210 cosponsors in the House.

    “Never before in the history of our nation have income and wealth inequality been greater than today. Workers are falling further and further behind. In response, millions of Americans have expressed their desire to join a union,” said Sanders. “However, the billionaire class is fighting with all its might to put down attempts by workers to exercise their constitutional right to unionize. That includes the decision by President Trump to illegally fire National Labor Relations Board Member Gwynne Wilcox and effectively shut down the NLRB. Without a functioning NLRB, corporate bosses can illegally fire unionizing workers, flagrantly violate labor laws and render free and fair union elections near impossible. Supporting the immediate reinstatement of Member Wilcox and the swift passage of the PRO Act would be major steps toward building real worker power. The PRO Act is long overdue and I am proud to be introducing this bill in the Senate.”

    “Unions are essential for building a strong middle class and improving the lives of workers and families. Regrettably, for too long, workers have suffered from anti-union attacks and toothless labor laws that undermined their right to form a union,” said Scott. “As union approval remains at record highs, Congress has an urgent responsibility to ensure that workers can join a union and negotiate for higher pay, better benefits, and safer workplaces. The PRO Act is the most critical step Congress can take to uplift American workers. I urge my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in advancing the most significant update for workers’ labor organizing rights in over eighty years.”

    “As we speak Donald Trump and his billionaire buddies are stealing the American dream away from working families, rigging every lever of society in favor of the billionaire class,” said Schumer. “That’s why we need the PRO Act, to empower hardworking Americans to bargain for better wages, benefits, and safer working conditions. I’ve been involved in this fight for a very, very long time, and I will stay in this fight for as long as it takes – until every worker gets the wage they deserve, until the right to organize is protected and encouraged and secure, and until we finally make the PRO Act the law of the land.”

    “Right now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk are attacking workers, including mass firing people by the tens of thousands, left and right, regardless of how important that work is,” said Murray. “Reintroducing the PRO Act is more important now than ever. This is about making sure we are not just pushing back—but also pushing forward: charting a positive vision for workers and daring Republicans to make their actions match their words. Who do you stand with—the billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump—whose favorite two words are ‘you’re fired?’ Or do you stand with hard working American women and men. People who just want fair pay, decent treatment, and a government that works to make their lives better, not worse? That should not be too much to ask! I’m going to keep fighting, come hell or high water, to make it easier for workers to join together and fight for the better pay and working conditions they deserve.”

    “When our unions are strong, the United States of America is strong,” said Jeffries. “While Republicans are focused on giving handouts to their billionaire donors, Democrats will continue to fight to make sure that every American worker can organize and thrive and fight for better wages, better pay, better safety conditions and better benefits. Thanks to the leadership of Ranking Member Bobby Scott, that is exactly what the PRO Act does and we will not rest until we get this legislation across the finish line.”

    “Billionaires know there’s no greater threat to their power than a union card,” said Clark. “That’s why they’re using miles of red tape to deny the American people their basic, constitutional right to organize. We can cut that red tape for good. The PRO Act is yet another chance for Republicans to show where they stand: with working people or their billionaire donors.”

    “The PRO Act will safeguard the fundamental right of American workers to collectively bargain and organize and will ensure workers receive fair treatment while holding their employers to just standards,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.). “I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to strengthen the right of our nation’s hardest-working men and women to organize and negotiate for better wages, benefits, and conditions. A strong workforce is the foundation of a strong nation, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to see this vital legislation through.”

    “Americans believe in the power of unions and tens of millions of working people would become union members tomorrow if they could. But American labor law is broken, weighted on the side of the bosses and against the workers. In too many workplaces, in too many industries across the country, big corporations and billionaire CEOs still retaliate against us for organizing. They refuse to negotiate our contracts, force us to sit through hours of anti-union propaganda, and engage in illegal union-busting every day. Now they have an unelected, unaccountable, union-buster trying to illegally fire tens of thousands of our fellow workers in federal jobs and an administration rolling back the workplace protections. The PRO Act is long overdue, and the American people agree. We urge elected leaders of both parties to move this critical legislation forward so that all workers have the chance to stand together and build better lives for themselves and their families,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.

    Large corporations and the wealthy continue to capture the rewards of a growing economy while working families and middle-class Americans are left behind. From 1979 to 2023, annual wages for the bottom 90% of households increased just 44 percent, while average incomes for the wealthiest 1% increased more than 180 percent.

    Unions are critical to increasing wages and creating a strong economy that rewards hardworking people. Through the power of collective bargaining, the typical union worker earns 16 percent more than the typical non-union worker.

    The American people’s support for unions is surging. According to a 2024 Gallup poll, 70 percent of Americans approve of labor unions — remaining at near record highs. Despite growing support for unions, billionaire- and special interest-funded attacks on the rights of workers, unions and labor laws have eroded union density and made it harder for workers to organize. The share of American workers who are union members has fallen from roughly one in three workers in 1956 to a new low of 9.9 percent in 2024. The PRO Act restores fairness to the economy by strengthening the federal law that protects the right of workers to join a union and bargain for higher pay, better benefits and safer workplaces.

    The PRO Act would protect the right to organize and collectively bargain by:

    • Bolstering remedies and punishing violations of the rights of workers through authorizing meaningful penalties for employers that violate their rights, strengthening support for workers who suffer retaliation for exercising their rights and authorizing a private right of action for violation of the rights of workers.
    • Strengthening the rights of workers to join together and negotiate for better working conditions by enhancing their right to support secondary boycotts, ensuring unions can collect “fair share” fees, modernizing the union election process and facilitating initial collective bargaining agreements.
    • Restoring fairness to an economy rigged against workers by closing loopholes that allow employers to misclassify their employees as supervisors and independent contractors and increasing transparency in labor-management relations.

    More than 18 organizations endorsed the PRO Act, including the AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), United Autoworkers (UAW), United Steelworkers (USW), Communications Workers of America (CWA), National Nurses United (NNU), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE), National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), the American Federation of Musicians, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA), Transport Workers Union (TWU), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).

    Read the bill text here.

    Read a fact sheet here.

    Read a section-by-section summary here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Funding cuts jeopardize global fight against tuberculosis, WHO warns

    Source: United Nations 2

    Health

    The UN World Health Organization (WHO) warned on Wednesday that severe funding cuts – particularly in the United States – are threatening decades of progress in the fight against tuberculosis (TB), still the world’s deadliest infectious disease.

    The health agency highlighted that essential prevention, testing and treatment services are collapsing, leaving millions at risk.

    The hardest-hit regions include Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific, where national TB programmes depend heavily on international support.

    “Any disruption to TB services – whether financial, political or operational – can have devastating and often fatal consequences for millions worldwide,” said Tereza Kasaeva, Director of WHO Global Programme on TB and Lung Health.

    Last week, UN Secretary-General António Guterres also raised the alarm over funding cuts, noting the immediate impact on key health programmes combatting HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and cholera.

    A devastating setback

    Over the past two decades, global TB programmes have saved more than 79 million lives, averting approximately 3.65 million deaths last year alone.

    A significant portion of this success has been driven by US Government funding, which has provided about $200 to $250 million annually – approximately a quarter of the total international donor funding secured.  

    The US has been the largest bilateral donor for programmes combatting the disease.

    However, newly announced cuts for 2025 through executive orders will have devastating impacts on TB response efforts in at least 18 high-burden countries, where 89 per cent of expected US funding was allocated for patient care.

    The impact will be particularly devastating in Africa, where treatment disruptions and staff layoffs could exponentially increase TB transmission rates.

    Immense burden

    Early reports from TB-affected countries indicate that funding constraints are already dismantling essential health services.

    Among the most pressing concerns are health worker layoffs, drug shortages and supply chain breakdowns, data and surveillance systems are collapse, and disruptions to TB research and funding.

    “Without immediate action, hard-won progress in the fight against TB is at risk. Our collective response must be swift, strategic and fully resourced to protect the most vulnerable and maintain momentum toward ending TB,” urged Dr. Kasaeva.

    Call for urgent action

    WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting governments and global partners in the fight against TB.

    “In these challenging times, WHO remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting national governments, civil society and global partners in securing sustained funding and integrated solutions to safeguard the health and well-being of those most vulnerable to TB,” the agency said.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta pushes back on illegal U.S. tariffs

    As part of its non-tariff retaliatory measures, Alberta is altering its procurement practices to ensure Alberta’s government, as well as agencies, school boards, Crown corporations and Alberta municipalities, purchase their goods and services from Alberta companies, Canadian companies or countries with which Canada has a free trade agreement that is being honoured.  

    “I will always put the best interests of Alberta and Albertans first. These non-tariff actions are measured, proportionate and put an emphasis on defending Alberta and Canada against these economically destructive tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, while breaking down restrictive provincial trade barriers so we can fast-track nation building resource projects and allow for the unrestricted movement of goods, services and labour across the country. I understand this is an uncertain time for many Albertans, and our government will continue to do all it can to prioritize Alberta’s and Canada’s world-class products and businesses as we face this challenge together. I also look forward to working with my provincial counterparts to help unite Canada and ensure free and fair trade throughout our country.” 

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    Alberta’s government has also directed Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis to suspend the purchase of U.S. alcohol and video lottery terminals (VLTs) from American companies until further notice. This will ensure Alberta and Canadian brands take priority in restaurants, bars and on retail shelves.

    “We are committed to putting Canadian businesses first. By suspending the purchase of U.S. produced alcohol, slot machines and VLTs, we are ensuring that Alberta and Canadian brands take priority in our restaurants, bars and retail stores. We will continue to take bold steps to support local industries and strengthen our economy.”

    Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction

    To encourage the purchase of stock from vendors in Alberta, Canada and other countries with which Canada has a free trade agreement, the government will help all Alberta grocers and other retailers with labelling Canadian products in their stores. In the coming weeks, Alberta’s government will augment these efforts by launching a “Buy Alberta” marketing campaign. Spearheaded by Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson, this campaign will remind Albertans of their options for local food and the importance of supporting Alberta’s agriculture producers and processers.

    “Alberta’s agriculture producers and processers are the best in the world. Although these U.S. tariffs are incredibly concerning, this “Buy Alberta” campaign will put a spotlight on Alberta’s farmers, ranchers and agri-food businesses and support Albertans in choosing goods from right here at home.”

    RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

    Building on Alberta’s reputation as a leader in removing barriers to trade within Canada, Alberta’s government will continue to push other provinces to match our ambition in providing full labour mobility and eliminating trade barriers through work like mutual recognition of regulations. This will allow for goods, services and labour from other provinces to flow into and out of Alberta without having to undergo additional regulatory assessments.

    “While no one wins in a tariff war, this situation underscores the need to develop Canada’s trade infrastructure and the diversification of our trading partners and could be the catalyst to unlocking Canada’s true potential. As we look at how best to support Albertans and our businesses, we must also work to reduce internal trade and labour mobility barriers while expanding markets for Alberta energy, agricultural and manufactured products into Europe, Asia, the Americas and beyond. Albertans and Canadians are counting on us.”

    Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

    Alberta’s government is also focused on doubling oil production. With U.S. tariffs in place on Canadian energy products, Alberta is looking elsewhere for additional pipeline infrastructure, including east and west, in order to get our products to new markets.

    Alberta’s government will continue to engage with elected officials and industry leaders in the U.S. to reverse these tariffs on Canadian goods and energy and rebuild Canada’s relationship with its largest trading partner and ally.   

    Quick facts

    • On March 4, U.S. President Trump implemented a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods and a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian energy.
    • The U.S. is Alberta’s – and Canada’s – largest trading partner. 
    • Alberta is the second largest provincial exporter to the U.S. after Ontario.
      • In 2024, Alberta’s exports to the U.S. totalled C$162.6 billion, accounting for 88.7 per cent of total provincial exports.
      • Energy products accounted for approximately C$132.8 billion or 82.2 per cent of Alberta’s exports to the U.S. in 2024.
    • About 10 per cent of liquor products in stock in Alberta are imported from the United States.
      • U.S. products represent a small minority of the beer and refreshment beverage categories; however, a significant number of wines originate in the U.S.
      • In 2023-24, about $292 million in U.S. liquor products were sold in Alberta.
    • Alberta has been a longstanding supporter of reducing barriers to trade within Canada. In 2019, the province removed 21 of 27 exceptions, including all procurement exceptions, and narrowed the scope of two others. Since then, the province has only added 2 exceptions, which allow for the management the legalization of cannabis.
      • Removing party-specific exemptions has helped facilitate even greater access to the Alberta market for Canadian companies in the areas of government tenders, Crown land acquisition, liquor, energy and forest products, among others.

    Related information

    • Premier Smith’s speaking notes
    • Response to U.S. tariffs: Premier Smith

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ‘Need not race’ approach to bowel cancer screening will save lives

    Source: ACT Party

    “The move to reduce the eligibility age for free bowel cancer screening to 58 is ‘need, not race’ in action, and will save lives,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “ACT campaigned against targeting services based on race, because this practice was unfair, inefficient, and led to perverse outcomes.

    “Bowel cancer screening was a classic example. In 2022, Labour set a lower eligibility age for Māori/Pacific people accessing the National Bowel Screening Programme.

    “However, bowel cancer does not discriminate on race. Māori and Pacific peoples have a similar risk of developing bowel cancer compared to other population groups at a given age.

    “It was true that a higher proportion of bowel cancers occur in Māori and Pacific peoples at a younger age, but that is because the overall demographics of those groups are younger. It has always been age that determines bowel cancer risk, not race.

    “Today, the Government has repurposed Labour’s funding to deliver an eligibility age of 58 for all population groups, down from the previous default of 60.

    “This is ‘need, not race’ in action. ACT campaigned on it, we secured it in our coalition agreement, the Minister of Health pushed officials, and the result was (after having to go overseas for the advice) that we can have good things and deliver wider health benefits to all New Zealanders.

    “It shows, when you use real science and real statistics you don’t have to be racist. The previous government got the science and statistics wrong, and practiced racism. We abhor racial discrimination and we’re proud to be part of seeing the back of it.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 6 March 2025 New home, new outlook on life Cece felt like she’d struck it lucky when she walked into her new Kāinga Ora home in Christchurch after living in emergency housing.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    “When they showed me the house I was crying. I felt like I was living in a dream and that I’d won Lotto. I moved in here on December 17 just in time for Christmas,” she says.

    Cece and her dog Ray Charles are now happily settled into their new home, which Cece has tastefully furnished with community donations and colourful op shop finds. Even the garden is sprinkled with bright ornaments.

    “When I moved in here, I only had two plates and Ray [the dog]. I’m so thankful for all the donations of furniture I’ve received,” she says.

    In 2011, Cece was walking across a pedestrian crossing on her way to work one morning when she was hit by a car and broke her hip. After having a hip replacement, she now lives with chronic back pain and uses a mobility scooter to get around when she’s not at home.

    Cece and Ray Charles

    When Cece had to move out of a private rental home three years ago, she struggled to find another suitable place to live. Emergency housing was the only option until she was matched to her new Kāinga Ora home.

    Cece says her new home is perfect for her. It has a concrete path up one side that allows her to drive her mobility scooter straight inside the gate to her house. There is also space inside her front door to park her mobility scooter if she needs it and the bathroom has a walk-in shower.

    Cece is also loving being part of a community in the new development where she lives, which includes several family homes. Until recently, she was a child and youth worker specialising in arts and crafts.

    Just a few days after moving into her new home, Cece held an impromptu arts and crafts session for her neighbours’ kids in the development’s communal area. “I’ve been given so much that I want to give it back. After the Christmas party, the kids left a gift on my doorstep on Christmas Day,” Cece says.

    Now that she’s settled into her new home, Cece is thinking about what to do next. “I’m planning to get another job and have been looking at teacher aide jobs. Or I might do my master’s degree,” she says.

    In the meantime, she’s enjoying every moment in her new home.

    “This house is such a blessing. Every morning, I clean any spot I can see. It’s a privilege to have this house.” 

    Page updated: 6 March 2025

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: ACM Research to Participate at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ACM Research, Inc. (“ACM”) (NASDAQ: ACMR), a leading supplier of wafer processing solutions for semiconductor and advanced packaging applications, today announced its participation in the 37th Annual ROTH Conference in Dana Point, California on Monday, March 17, 2025.

    Management will be available for one-on-one and small group meetings with institutional investors on Monday, March 17, 2025. For more information about the conference or to request a one-on-one meeting, please contact a Roth sales representative.

    About ACM Research, Inc.

    ACM develops, manufactures and sells semiconductor process equipment spanning cleaning, electroplating, stress-free polishing, vertical furnace processes, track, PECVD, and wafer- and panel-level packaging tools, enabling advanced and semi-critical semiconductor device manufacturing. ACM is committed to delivering customized, high-performance, cost-effective process solutions that semiconductor manufacturers can use in numerous manufacturing steps to improve productivity and product yield. For more information, visit www.acmr.com.

    © ACM Research, Inc. The ACM Research logo is a trademark of ACM Research, Inc. For convenience, this trademark appears in this press release without a ™ symbol, but that practice does not mean that ACM will not assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, its rights to such trademark.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    In the United States: The Blueshirt Group
    Steven C. Pelayo, CFA
    +1 (360) 808-5154
    steven@blueshirtgroup.co
       
    In China: The Blueshirt Group Asia
    Gary Dvorchak, CFA
    gary@blueshirtgroup.co

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Silvaco Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Achieved record gross bookings of $65.8 million and revenue of $59.7 million in full-year 2024

    Signed 46 new customers in 2024 and expanded relationship with existing customers across key markets including power, automotive, memory, foundry, and display

    Expanded Product Portfolio with the Acquisition of Cadence’s Process Proximity Compensation Product Line

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO) (“Silvaco” or the “Company”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable innovative semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and automation, today announced its fourth quarter and full year 2024 results.

    “We are proud to close out the year with strong momentum and growing customer traction, including 46 new customer wins in 2024 and multiple bookings on our AI based, flagship FTCO platform,” said Dr. Babak Taheri, Silvaco’s Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Taheri continued, “Our first acquisition as a public company marks a significant milestone in executing our M&A strategy for talent, technology and expanding through inorganic growth. With a continued focus on innovation and execution, we are well-positioned to build on this success and drive further growth in 2025 for our EDA and TCAD product lines.”

    Fourth Quarter 2024 and Recent Business Highlights

    • Acquired 13 new customers across key markets including Photonics, Power, Automotive, Memory, and Foundry, which represented approximately 9% of gross bookings for the quarter.
    • Announced a partnership with Micon Global to expand Silvaco’s reach across the EMEA market, leveraging Micon’s expertise to deliver cutting-edge TCAD, EDA, and SIP solutions to new customers.
    • Joined the SMART USA Institute under the CHIPS Manufacturing USA program to advance digital twin technologies in semiconductor manufacturing, reinforcing Silvaco’s leadership in innovation. We received our first booking from this program.
    • Received a $5.0 million follow-on order for FTCO™ digital-twin modeling product from a strategic memory customer. This order extends the footprint of our FTCO™ product line and further validates our strategic focus on this unique technology.
    • Achieved ISO 9001 certification, underscoring Silvaco’s commitment to quality and continuous improvement across its TCAD, EDA, and SIP product portfolio.
    • On March 4, 2025, Silvaco closed the acquisition of the Process Proximity Compensation (PPC) product line from Cadence Design Systems, Inc. The addition, an optical proximity correction suite of tools, is highly complementary to Silvaco’s EDA and TCAD tool suites.

    Full Year 2024 Business Highlights

    • Acquired 46 new customers across key markets including Power, Automotive, Government/Mil-Aero, Photonics, IOT, 5G/6G, Memory, and Foundry, which represented approximately 10% of gross bookings for the year.
    • Expanded Victory TCAD and Digital Twin Modeling Platform to Planar CMOS, FinFET and Advanced CMOS Technologies which is a necessary step to enable FTCO for Advanced Process.
    • Silvaco Announced that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the dismissal of all claims against Silvaco brought by Aldini AG.
    • Silvaco was added to the Russell 2000®, Russell 3000®, and Russell Microcap® indexes in September 2024.
    • Completed initial public offering in May 2024, raising $106 million net of underwriters’ fees.

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Results

    GAAP Financial Results

    • Revenue of $17.9 million, up 43% year-over-year and up 63% quarter-over-quarter.
      • TCAD revenue of $12.7 million, up 65% year-over-year.
      • EDA revenue of $4.2 million, up 57% year-over-year.
      • SIP revenue of $0.9 million, down 57% year-over-year.
    • GAAP gross profit and GAAP gross margin were $15.4 million and 86%, respectively, which includes the impact of $194,000 stock-based compensation expense, $249,000 amortization of acquired intangible assets, and $80,000 payroll taxes from the RSU lockup release, up from $9.8 million and 79% in Q4 2023.
    • GAAP net income of $4.2 million, compared to a GAAP net loss of $2.2 million in Q4 2023.
    • GAAP basic and diluted net income per share of $0.14, compared to GAAP basic and diluted net loss per share of $(0.11) in Q4 2023.
    • As of December 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities totaled $87.5 million.

    Key Operating Indicators and Non-GAAP Financial Results:

    • Gross bookings were $20.3 million, up 30% year-over-year.
    • As of December 31, 2024, the remaining performance obligation balance of $34.3 million, 46% of which is expected to be recognized as revenue in the next 12 months.
    • Non-GAAP gross profit and non-GAAP gross margin were $16.0 million and 89%, respectively, up from $9.8 million and 79% year-over-year.
    • Non-GAAP net income of $4.3 million, compared to Non-GAAP net loss of $(1.6) million in Q4 2023.
    • Non-GAAP diluted net income per share of $0.15, compared to Non-GAAP diluted net loss per share of $(0.08) in Q4 2023.

    Full Year 2024 Financial Results

    GAAP Financial Results

    • Revenue of $59.7 million, up 10% year-over-year.
      • TCAD revenue of $40.2 million, up 25% year-over-year.
      • EDA revenue of $14.6 million, up 4% year-over-year.
      • SIP revenue of $4.9 million, down 40% year-over-year.
    • GAAP gross profit and GAAP gross margin were $47.6 million and 80%, respectively, which includes the impact of $3.0 million stock-based compensation expense, $747,000 amortization of acquired intangible assets, and $80,000 payroll taxes from the RSU lockup release, up from $44.9 million and down from 83% in 2023.
    • GAAP net loss of $(39.4) million, compared to $(0.3) million in 2023.
    • GAAP basic and diluted net loss per share of $(1.53), compared to $(0.02) in 2023.

    Key Operating Indicators and Non-GAAP Financial Results:

    • Gross bookings were $65.8 million, up 13% year-over-year.
    • Non-GAAP gross profit and non-GAAP gross margin were $51.4 million and 86%, respectively, up from $44.9 million and 83% year over year.
    • Non-GAAP net income of $6.7 million, compared to $3.4 million in 2023.
    • Non-GAAP diluted net income per share of $0.25, compared to $0.17 in 2023.

    For a discussion of the non-GAAP metrics presented in this press release, as well as a reconciliation of non-GAAP metrics to the nearest comparable GAAP metric, see “Discussion of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation” in the accompanying tables below.

    Supplementary materials to this press release, including our fourth quarter 2024 financial results, can be found at https://investors.silvaco.com/financial-information/quarterly-results.

    First Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Outlook

    As of March 5, 2025, Silvaco is providing guidance for its first quarter of 2025 and its full-year 2025, which represents Silvaco’s current estimates on its operations and financial results. The financial information below represents forward-looking financial information and in some instances forward-looking, non-GAAP financial information, including estimates of non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating income (loss) and non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share. GAAP gross margin is the most comparable GAAP measure to non-GAAP gross margin, GAAP operating income (loss) is the most comparable GAAP measure to non-GAAP operating income (loss). GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share is the most comparable GAAP measure to non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share. Non-GAAP gross margin differs from GAAP gross margin in that it excludes items such as stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquired intangible assets, and payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release. Non-GAAP operating income (loss) differs from GAAP operating income (loss) in that it excludes items such as acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs, stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquired intangible assets, payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release, IPO preparation costs, and executive severance costs. Non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share differs from GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share in that it excludes certain costs, including IPO preparation costs, acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs, stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquired intangible assets, payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release, executive severance costs, change in fair value of contingent consideration, foreign exchange (gain) loss, loss on debt extinguishment, and the income tax effect on non-GAAP items. Silvaco is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the ultimate outcome of these exclusions without unreasonable effort. Therefore, Silvaco has not provided guidance for GAAP gross margin, GAAP operating income or GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share or a reconciliation of the forward-looking non-GAAP gross margin or non-GAAP operating income or non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share guidance to GAAP gross margin or GAAP operating income or GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share, respectively. However, it is important to note that these excluded items could be material to our results computed in accordance with GAAP in future periods.

    Based on current business trends and conditions, the Company expects for first quarter 2025 the following:

    • Gross bookings in the range of $16.0 million to $19.0 million, which would compare to $16.1 million in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Revenue in the range of $14.5 million to $17.0 million, which would compare to $15.9 million in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Non-GAAP gross margin in the range of 84% to 87%, which would compare to 88% in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Non-GAAP operating income in the range of ($1.0) million loss to $1.0 million income, compared to $3.3 million in the first quarter of 2024.
    • Non-GAAP diluted net income per share in the range of ($0.03) loss to $0.03, compared to $0.12 in the first quarter of 2024.

    For full year 2025, the Company expects:

    • Gross bookings in the range of $72.0 million to $79.0 million, which would represent a 9% to 20% increase from $65.8 million in 2024.
    • Revenue in the range of $66.0 million to $72.0 million, which would represent a 11% to 21% increase from $59.7 million in 2024.
    • Non-GAAP gross margin in the range of 84.0% to 89.0%, which would compare to 86% in 2024.
    • Non-GAAP operating income in the range of $2.0 million to $7.0 million, which would compare to $5.5 million in 2024.
    • Non-GAAP diluted net income per share in the range of $0.07 to $0.19, compared to $0.25 in 2024.

    Q4 2024 Conference Call Details

    A press release highlighting the Company’s results along with supplemental financial results will be available at https://investors.silvaco.com/ along with an earnings presentation to accompany management’s prepared remarks on the day of the conference call, after market close. An archived replay of the conference call will be available on this website for a limited time after the call. Participants who want to join the call and ask a question may register for the call here to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN.

    Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
    Time: 5:00 p.m. Eastern time
    Webcast: Here (live and replay)

    About Silvaco

    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains forward-looking statements based on Silvaco’s current expectations. The words “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “project”, “will”, and similar phrases as they relate to Silvaco are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current views and assumptions of Silvaco and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations.

    These forward-looking statements include but are not limited to, statements regarding our future operating results, financial position, and guidance, our business strategy and plans, our objectives for future operations, our development or delivery of new or enhanced products, and anticipated results of those products for our customers, our competitive positioning, projected costs, technological capabilities, and plans, and macroeconomic trends.

    A variety of risks and factors that are beyond our control could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements including, without limitation, the following: (a) market conditions; (b) anticipated trends, challenges and growth in our business and the markets in which we operate; (c) our ability to appropriately respond to changing technologies on a timely and cost-effective basis; (d) the size and growth potential of the markets for our software solutions, and our ability to serve those markets; (e) our expectations regarding competition in our existing and new markets; (f) the level of demand in our customers’ end markets; (g) regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries; (h) changes in trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs; (i) proposed new software solutions, services or developments; (j) our ability to attract and retain key management personnel; (k) our customer relationships and our ability to retain and expand our customer relationships; (l) our ability to diversify our customer base and develop relationships in new markets; (m) the strategies, prospects, plans, expectations, and objectives of management for future operations; (n) public health crises, pandemics, and epidemics and their effects on our business and our customers’ businesses; (o) the impact of the current conflicts between Ukraine and Russia and Israel and Hamas and the ongoing trade disputes among the United States and China on our business, financial condition or prospects, including extreme volatility in the global capital markets making debt or equity financing more difficult to obtain, more costly or more dilutive, delays and disruptions of the global supply chains and the business activities of our suppliers, distributors, customers and other business partners; (p) changes in general economic or business conditions or economic or demographic trends in the United States and foreign countries including changes in tariffs, interest rates and inflation; (q) our ability to raise additional capital; (r) our ability to accurately forecast demand for our software solutions; (s) our expectations regarding the outcome of any ongoing litigation; (t) our expectations regarding the period during which we qualify as an emerging growth company under the JOBS Act and as a smaller reporting company under the Exchange Act; (u) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce intellectual property protection for our technology; (v) our status as a controlled company; (w) our use of the net proceeds from our initial public offering, and (x) our ability to successfully integrate, retain key personnel, and realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Cadence’s PPC product line.

    It is not possible for us to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. Accordingly, you should not rely on any of the forward-looking statements. Additional information relating to the uncertainty affecting the Silvaco’s business is contained in Silvaco’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These documents are available on the SEC Filings section of the Investor Relations section of Silvaco’s website at http://investors.silvaco.com/. These forward-looking statements represent Silvaco’s expectations as of the date of this press release. Subsequent events may cause these expectations to change, and Silvaco disclaims any obligations to update or alter these forward-looking statements in the future, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Discussion of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    We use certain non-GAAP financial measures to supplement the performance measures in our consolidated financial statements, which are presented in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures include non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating income (loss), non-GAAP net income (loss), and non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share. We use these non-GAAP financial measures for financial and operational decision-making and as a mean to assist us in evaluating period-to-period comparisons.

    We define non-GAAP gross profit and non-GAAP gross margin as our GAAP gross profit and GAAP gross margin adjusted to exclude certain costs, including stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquired intangible assets and payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release. We define non-GAAP operating income (loss), as our GAAP operating income (loss) adjusted to exclude certain costs, including IPO preparation costs, acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs, stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquired intangible assets, payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release, and executive severance costs. We define non-GAAP net income (loss) as our GAAP net income (loss) adjusted to exclude certain costs, including IPO preparation costs, acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs, stock-based compensation expense, amortization of acquired intangible assets, payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release, executive severance costs, change in fair value of contingent consideration, foreign exchange (gain) loss, loss on debt extinguishment, and the income tax effect on non-GAAP items. Our non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share is calculated in the same way as our non-GAAP net income (loss), but on a per share basis. We monitor non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating income (loss), non-GAAP net income (loss) and non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share as non-GAAP financial measures to supplement the financial information we present in accordance with GAAP to provide investors with additional information regarding our financial results.

    Certain items are excluded from our non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating income (loss), non-GAAP net income (loss) and non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share because these items are non-cash in nature or are not indicative of our core operating performance and render comparisons with prior periods and competitors less meaningful. We adjust GAAP gross profit, GAAP gross margin, GAAP operating income (loss), GAAP net income (loss), and GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share for these items to arrive at non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating income (loss), non-GAAP net income (loss), and non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share because these amounts can vary substantially from company to company within our industry depending upon accounting methods and book values of assets, capital structure and the method by which the assets were acquired. By excluding certain items that may not be indicative of our recurring core operating results, we believe that non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating income (loss), non-GAAP net income (loss) and non-GAAP diluted net income (loss) per share provide meaningful supplemental information regarding our performance.

    We believe these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors and others because they allow for additional information with respect to financial measures used by management in its financial and operational decision-making and they may be used by our institutional investors and the analyst community to help them analyze our financial performance and the health of our business. However, there are a number of limitations related to the use of non-GAAP financial measures, and these non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for or in isolation from, our financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP. Other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate these non-GAAP financial measures differently or not at all, which reduces their usefulness as comparative measures.

           
    SILVACO GROUP, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Unaudited, in thousands except share and par value amounts)
      December 31,   December 31,
      2024   2023
           
    ASSETS      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 19,606     $ 4,421  
    Short-term marketable securities   63,071       –  
    Accounts receivable, net   9,211       4,006  
    Contract assets, net   11,932       8,749  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   3,460       2,549  
    Deferred transaction costs   –       1,163  
    Total current assets   107,280       20,888  
    Non-current assets:      
    Non-current marketable securities   4,785       –  
    Property and equipment, net   865       591  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net   1,711       1,963  
    Intangible assets, net   4,369       342  
    Goodwill   9,026       9,026  
    Non-current portion of contract assets, net   12,611       6,250  
    Other assets   1,698       1,825  
    Total non-current assets   35,065       19,997  
    Total assets $ 142,345     $ 40,885  
           
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 3,316     $ 2,495  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities   19,801       10,255  
    Accrued income taxes   1,668       1,626  
    Deferred revenue, current   7,497       7,882  
    Operating lease liabilities, current   744       735  
    Related party line of credit   –       2,000  
    Vendor financing obligations, current   1,462       –  
    Total current liabilities   34,488       24,993  
    Non-current liabilities:      
    Deferred revenue, non-current   3,593       5,071  
    Operating lease liabilities, non-current   946       1,198  
    Vendor financing obligations, non-current   2,928       –  
    Other non-current liabilities   307       221  
    Total liabilities   42,262       31,483  
    Commitments and contingencies      
    Stockholders’ equity      
    Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024; no shares authorized as of December 31, 2023   –       –  
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 28,526,615 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024; 25,000,000 shares authorized; 20,000,000 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023   3       2  
    Additional paid-in capital   130,360       –  
    (Accumulated deficit) Retained earnings   (28,012 )     11,392  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (2,268 )     (1,992 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   100,083       9,402  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 142,345     $ 40,885  
           
    SILVACO GROUP, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (Unaudited, in thousands except share and per share amounts)
                   
      Three months Ended December 31,   Twelve months Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
                   
    Revenue:              
    Software license revenue $ 13,870     $ 8,738     $ 43,991     $ 39,331  
    Maintenance and service   3,989       3,748       15,689       14,915  
    Total revenue   17,859       12,486       59,680       54,246  
    Cost of revenue   2,422       2,682       12,042       9,354  
    Gross profit   15,437       9,804       47,638       44,892  
    Operating expenses:              
    Research and development   5,283       3,337       20,740       13,170  
    Selling and marketing   3,983       3,833       18,300       12,707  
    General and administrative   7,529       4,570       37,571       17,881  
    Estimated litigation claim   (3,782 )     –       11,306       –  
    Total operating expenses   13,013       11,740       87,917       43,758  
    Operating (loss) income   2,424       (1,936 )     (40,279 )     1,134  
    Loss on debt extinguishment   –       –       (718 )     –  
    Interest income   1,077       2       2,976       6  
    Interest and other expenses, net   (67 )     (95 )     (899 )     (630 )
    (Loss) income before income tax provision   3,434       (2,029 )     (38,920 )     510  
    Income tax provision (benefit)   (723 )     218       484       826  
    Net (loss) income $ 4,157     $ (2,247 )   $ (39,404 )   $ (316 )
    (Loss) earnings per share attributable to common stockholders:              
    Basic and diluted $ 0.14     $ (0.11 )   $ (1.53 )   $ (0.02 )
    Weighted average shares used in computing per share amounts:              
    Basic and diluted   28,734,082       20,000,000       25,672,845       20,000,000  
                   
    SILVACO GROUP, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    (Unaudited, in thousands)
      Year Ended December 31
        2024       2023  
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net loss $ (39,404 )   $ (316 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:      
    Depreciation and amortization   1,285       601  
    Stock-based compensation expense   26,915       –  
    Provision for credit losses   351       220  
    Accretion of discount on marketable securities, net   (1,685 )     –  
    Estimated litigation claim   11,306       –  
    Loss on debt extinguishment   718       –  
    Change in fair value of contingent consideration   (27 )     325  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
    Accounts receivable   (5,971 )     1,378  
    Contract assets   (10,293 )     (5,208 )
    Prepaid expense and other current assets   (790 )     133  
    Other assets   57       (267 )
    Accounts payable   1,326       156  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities   (2,160 )     2,015  
    Accrued income taxes   74       (23 )
    Deferred revenue   (1,585 )     2,268  
    Other non-current liabilities   109       (102 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities   (19,774 )     1,180  
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Purchases of marketable securities   (99,630 )     –  
    Maturities of marketable securities   33,600       –  
    Purchases of property and equipment   (505 )     (339 )
    Net cash used in investing activities   (66,535 )     (339 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Proceeds from initial public offering, net of underwriting fees   106,020       –  
    Proceeds from issuance of convertible note, net of debt issuance costs   4,852       –  
    Proceeds from loan facility   4,250       –  
    Repayment of loan facility   (4,250 )     –  
    Proceeds from related party line of credit   –       1,000  
    Repayment of related party line of credit   (2,000 )     (1,000 )
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock for share-based awards   315       –  
    Payroll taxes related to shares withheld from employees   (4,575 )     –  
    Deferred transaction costs   (2,649 )     (650 )
    Contingent consideration   (74 )     (1,002 )
    Payments of vendor financing obligation   (588 )     –  
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   101,301       (1,652 )
    Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents   193       (246 )
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   15,185       (1,057 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   4,421       5,478  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 19,606     $ 4,421  
           
    SILVACO GROUP, INC.
    REVENUE
    (Unaudited)
                             
        2023   2024
        Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Year   Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Year
    Revenue by Region:                        
    Americas   35 % 29 % 31 % 29 % 31 %   27 % 51 % 31 % 40 % 38 %
    APAC   51 % 62 % 61 % 63 % 59 %   62 % 41 % 58 % 52 % 53 %
    EMEA   14 % 9 % 8 % 8 % 10 %   11 % 8 % 11 % 8 % 9 %
    Total revenue   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %
                             
    Revenue by Product Line:                        
    TCAD   62 % 62 % 52 % 62 % 59 %   66 % 69 % 59 % 71 % 68 %
    EDA   29 % 20 % 31 % 22 % 26 %   30 % 20 % 24 % 24 % 24 %
    SIP   9 % 18 % 17 % 16 % 15 %   4 % 11 % 17 % 5 % 8 %
    Total revenue   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %
                             
    Revenue Item Category:                        
    Software license revenue   75 % 71 % 74 % 70 % 73 %   77 % 74 % 62 % 78 % 74 %
    Maintenance and service   25 % 29 % 26 % 30 % 27 %   23 % 26 % 38 % 22 % 26 %
    Total revenue   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %
                             
    Revenue by Country:                        
    United States   34 % 28 % 28 % 28 % 30 %   51 % 30 % 39 % 39 % 37 %
    China   19 % 29 % 16 % 29 % 23 %   17 % 25 % 23 % 23 % 18 %
    Other   47 % 43 % 56 % 43 % 47 %   32 % 45 % 38 % 38 % 45 %
    Total revenue   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %   100 % 100 % 100 % 100 % 100 %
    SILVACO GROUP, INC.
    GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation
    (Unaudited, in thousands except per share amounts)
                   
      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      12/31/2024   12/31/2023   12/31/2024   12/31/2023
                   
    GAAP Cost of revenue $ 2,422     $ 2,682     $ 12,042     $ 9,354  
    Less: Stock-based compensation expense   (194 )     –       (2,974 )     –  
    Less: Amortization of acquired intangible assets   (249 )     –       (747 )     –  
    Less: Payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release   (80 )     –       (80 )     –  
    Non-GAAP Cost of revenue $ 1,899     $ 2,682     $ 8,241     $ 9,354  
    GAAP Gross profit $ 15,437     $ 9,804     $ 47,638     $ 44,892  
    Add: Stock-based compensation expense   194       –       2,974       –  
    Add: Amortization of acquired intangible assets   249       –       747       –  
    Add: Payroll tax from the IPO lockup release   80       –       80       –  
    Non-GAAP Gross profit $ 15,960     $ 9,804     $ 51,439     $ 44,892  
    GAAP Research and development $ 5,283     $ 3,337     $ 20,740     $ 13,170  
    Less: Stock-based compensation expense   (535 )     –       (5,091 )     –  
    Less: Executive severance   (215 )     –       (215 )     –  
    Less: Payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release   (397 )     –       (397 )     –  
    Less: Amortization of acquired intangible assets   (43 )     (82 )     (206 )     (339 )
    Non-GAAP Research and development $ 4,093     $ 3,255     $ 14,831     $ 12,831  
    GAAP Sales and marketing $ 3,983     $ 3,833     $ 18,300     $ 12,707  
    Less: Stock-based compensation expense   (388 )     –       (4,319 )     –  
    Less: Payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release   (85 )     –       (85 )     –  
    Less: IPO preparation costs   –       –       (178 )     –  
    Non-GAAP Sales and marketing $ 3,510     $ 3,833     $ 13,718     $ 12,707  
    GAAP General and administrative $ 7,529     $ 4,570     $ 37,571     $ 17,881  
    Less: Stock-based compensation expense   (1,410 )     –       (14,531 )     –  
    Less: Acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs   (523 )     (515 )     (4,629 )     (1,707 )
    Less: Executive severance   (200 )     –       (200 )     –  
    Less: Payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release   (163 )     –       (163 )     –  
    Less: IPO preparation costs   –       (45 )     (695 )     (1,221 )
    Non-GAAP General and administrative $ 5,233     $ 4,010     $ 17,353     $ 14,953  
    GAAP Estimated Litigation claim $ (3,782 )   $ –     $ 11,306     $ –  
    Add (Less): Acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs   3,782       –       (11,306 )     –  
    Non-GAAP Litigation claim $ –     $ –     $ –     $ –  
    GAAP Operating expenses $ 13,013     $ 11,740     $ 87,917     $ 43,758  
    Less: Stock-based compensation expense   (2,333 )     –       (23,941 )     –  
    Less: Acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs   3,259       (515 )     (15,935 )     (1,707 )
    Less: Executive severance   (415 )     –       (415 )     –  
    Less: Payroll tax from the IPO lock-up release   (645 )     –       (645 )     –  
    Less: IPO preparation costs   –       (45 )     (873 )     (1,221 )
    Less: Amortization of acquired intangible assets   (43 )     (82 )     (206 )     (339 )
    Non-GAAP Operating expenses $ 12,836     $ 11,098     $ 45,902     $ 40,491  
    GAAP Operating (loss) income $ 2,424     $ (1,936 )   $ (40,279 )   $ 1,134  
    Add: Stock-based compensation expense   2,527       –       26,915       –  
    Add (Less): Acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs   (3,259 )     515       15,935       1,707  
    Add: Payroll tax from the IPO lockup release   725       –       725       –  
    Add: Executive severance   415       –       415       –  
    Add: IPO preparation costs   –       45       873       1,221  
    Add: Amortization of acquired intangible assets   292       82       953       339  
    Non-GAAP Operating (loss) income $ 3,124     $ (1,294 )   $ 5,537     $ 4,401  
    GAAP Net (loss) income $ 4,157     $ (2,247 )   $ (39,404 )   $ (316 )
    Add: Stock-based compensation expense   2,527       –       26,915       –  
    Add: Amortization of acquired intangible assets   292       82       953       339  
    Add (Less): Acquisition-related estimated litigation claim and legal costs   (3,259 )     515       15,935       1,707  
    Add: Payroll tax from the IPO lockup release   725       –       725       –  
    Add: Executive Severance   415       –       415       –  
    Add: IPO preparation costs   –       45       873       1,221  
    Add: Loss on debt extinguishment   –       –       718       –  
    Add (Less): Change in fair value of contingent consideration   (9 )     (7 )     (27 )     325  
    Add (Less): Foreign exchange (gain) loss   (14 )     (3 )     404       335  
    Add: Income tax effect of non-GAAP adjustment   (566 )     (27 )     (831 )     (169 )
    Non-GAAP Net (loss) income $ 4,268     $ (1,642 )   $ 6,676     $ 3,442  
    GAAP Net income (loss) per share:              
    Basic and diluted: $ 0.14     $ (0.11 )   $ (1.53 )   $ (0.02 )
    Non-GAAP Net income (loss) per share:              
    Basic $ 0.15     $ (0.08 )   $ 0.26     $ 0.17  
    Diluted $ 0.15     $ (0.08 )   $ 0.25     $ 0.17  
    Weighted average shares used in GAAP and non-GAAP net income (loss) per share:              
    Basic   28,734,082       20,000,000       25,672,845       20,000,000  
    Diluted   28,849,041       20,000,000       26,841,901       20,000,000  
                   

    Investor Contact:
    Greg McNiff
    investors@silvaco.com

    Media Contact:
    Farhad Hayat
    press@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ending US birthright citizenship could have consequences for LGBTQ+ couples, lower-income parents and the surrogacy market

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Ashley Mantha-Hollands, Max Weber Fellow, Max Weber Programme for Postdoctoral Studies, European University Institute

    The first month of US President Donald Trump’s second term saw an onslaught of executive orders. The order aiming to change how birthright citizenship – the constitutional guarantee of citizenship to most children born within US territory – is granted could be the most consequential. Federal judges in Maryland, Washington state, Massachusetts and New Hampshire have issued nationwide injunctions against the order, and the San Francisco-based US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit rejected the Trump administration’s appeal.

    To date, most media outlets, civil and human rights organisations, and activist groups have expressed concern about how a change to birthright citizenship would impact undocumented people and their children. However, a change could also have a series of further consequences, particularly for children of LGBTQ+ couples and children born through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as surrogacy.

    There are at least three related outcomes to consider: tension between federal and state definitions of parentage, a heightened administrative burden for establishing proof of citizenship, and the potential harm to what is the world’s largest surrogacy market.

    Who are the parents? Not so simple

    In countries where children obtain citizenship based on the citizenship of their parents, the legal parameters of the family are of utmost importance. For this reason, countries often provide specific definitions of who “counts” as a parent. In the US, this responsibility falls to the states, which provide their own definitions. One common practice is known as the “parturient” rule, which holds that the person giving birth is the legal “mother” and her spouse the legal “father”. This practice is increasingly contested. With the rise of ART and, in particular, surrogacy, the person giving birth is not always the intended parent. In fact, at least 14 US states have recognized that the parturient rule does not encompass many types of family arrangements and have altered their administrative frameworks so that “intended parents” can be immediately placed on birth certificates.

    While the establishment of parentage occurs at the state level, establishing citizenship is a federal responsibility. As a result, the federal government also provides its own legal definition of parenthood. This definition includes the following family roles: a genetic parent, a non-genetic gestational parent, a non-genetic and non-gestational spouse of a genetic and/or gestational parent, and parents of an adopted child. By contrast, the definitions in Trump’s executive order would spark a return to traditional heteronormative definitions of parentage. The mother is defined as “the immediate female biological progenitor” and the father as “the immediate male biological progenitor”. Such definitions leave out not only most LGBTQ+ couples, but also some families seeking ART, because children born through these modalities may not be biologically related to the intended parents.

    If the order comes into force, it would result in a mismatch between federal and state definitions of parentage and likely invite many legal disputes, while leaving some children born through ART at risk of statelessness if their parents are unrecognized as such. Citizenship is vital to an individual’s personal security: stateless children can, in some cases, be separated from their intended parents. Moreover, without a legal status, children and their families cannot benefit from the full range of federal and state services, including access to the child welfare system, funding opportunities for higher education and health care. For example, according to officials in 24 states, children would lose benefits from the Children’s Health Insurance Program and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which all US-born babies are currently eligible to receive.

    The bureaucratic burden

    The administrative burden of citizenship recognition for newborns is another overlooked issue in discussions about Trump’s order. In most cases, a birth certificate from a US state is sufficient to prove one’s citizenship status. After a child is born, hospitals normally transmit birth-certified information to the local municipality. The child’s birth certificate is then issued three-to-five business days later. The certificate suffices for recognition of citizenship and for federal documentation such as a passport.

    The executive order would increase the administrative burden for recognising citizenship. It is unclear, however, whether this burden would fall on the states or the federal government.

    In the first scenario, state bureaucracies would need to check the parents’ immigration status prior to issuing a birth certificate. This would undoubtedly cause confusion, as each state would need to provide new guidance and training to local bureaucrats on the medley of US immigration statuses and their attendant rights. The processing times for issuing birth certificates would increase, as verification procedures would require additional documentation. The fees for issuing certificates, currently between $7 and $35, would likely rise as well, since bureaucrats would need to investigate each birth rather than issue certificates automatically.

    If the administrative burden falls on the federal government, birth certificates would be issued in the same way and at the same cost by the states, but they would no longer be sufficient to prove a child’s citizenship. In this case, the government would need to issue citizenship certificates, which are normally reserved for proof of citizenship for children born abroad. Each case would require an individual investigation rather than being automatic, and while it’s hard to say how much fees could rise, current fees for citizenship certificates for children born abroad are north of $1,300. The processing of passport applications would take longer and likely be more costly, too, because a system to verify the immigration status of a child’s parents will need to be set up.

    In 2012, the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP) released a report that outlined the potential impacts of ending the current approach to birthright citizenship. The report estimates, based on the costs of US citizenship certificates for children born abroad, that changing the existing law – which Trump’s order seeks to reinterpret – would cost parents “approximately $600 in government fees to prove the citizenship status of each baby and likely an additional $600 to $1,000 in legal fees”. The report describes these costs as a “tax” on “each baby born in the United States”.

    Alternately, the US could establish a new national ID card system, but this would also have bureaucratic costs. This type of ID card is common in European countries: with some variation between systems, cards can be used for travel within the EU (as an alternative to a passport) and are generally used to prove citizenship status to vote or receive certain social services. But unlike in the European states that issue these cards, the US government has no registry of vital records and would need a new administrative structure to create one. When the UK government discussed such a system in 2007, its total cost was estimated to be at least 5.75 billion pounds.

    The NFAP report mentions the federal systems that rely on the current practice of state-administered birth certificates and automatic citizenship to function. These systems include the Social Security Administration, which handles retirement, disability and family benefits, and the E-Verify system, which determines whether a person has authorisation to work in the US. The report states that systems such as E-Verify “have cost the American taxpayer billions of dollars. There is no reason to believe that a change to the Citizenship Clause requiring the verification of parents’ immigration status would be any less expensive.”

    Costs to the US surrogacy market

    The US surrogacy industry is the largest in the world. It is valued at over $20 billion (and is expected to grow to $195 billion by 2034), and attracts families from European and Asian countries where surrogacy is not as prevalent or is illegal. An important factor in the size of this market is the attractive environment for surrogacy arrangements. First, surrogacy is relatively mainstreamed in the US, and there are many companies that help with finding donors, surrogates and with navigating the legal process. Second, intended parents have the security of knowing their children will have immediate access to travel documents, such as a US passport, after birth. If a new definition of parentage goes into effect, thus removing the guarantee of US citizenship, the status of children born through surrogacy could be at risk. The attractiveness of the US surrogacy market would likely suffer, because parents would face time-consuming and costly steps to secure status and immigration documents to allow travel between the US and their home country.

    An unclear fate

    The approach to parenthood in the executive order on birthright citizenship aligns with the Trump administration’s overall push toward pronatalism and traditional heterosexual family models. Trump has also signed another executive order expanding access to in vitro fertilization (IVF) for “longing mothers and fathers”. The definition of parentage in this order also leaves out same-sex couples, who often receive IVF treatments.

    The fate of the birthright citizenship order is unclear, and it will likely end up reaching the Supreme Court. Legal debates must include the constitutionality of denying automatic citizenship to US-born children, the effect on children born via assisted reproductive technologies, and the bureaucratic and financial burdens placed on states and parents. While an end to birthright citizenship would immediately affect the children of undocumented people, taking a step back reveals other consequences that could impact the broader US public for generations to come.

    Les auteurs ne travaillent pas, ne conseillent pas, ne possèdent pas de parts, ne reçoivent pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’ont déclaré aucune autre affiliation que leur organisme de recherche.

    – ref. Ending US birthright citizenship could have consequences for LGBTQ+ couples, lower-income parents and the surrogacy market – https://theconversation.com/ending-us-birthright-citizenship-could-have-consequences-for-lgbtq-couples-lower-income-parents-and-the-surrogacy-market-250846

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Avondale’s new community hub gets set to connect

    Source: Auckland Council

    Great progress is underway in the preparations to build Te Hono – the new Avondale library, community hub, and upgraded town square.

    Deconstruction works are complete and the focus now shifts to site preparations that include the construction of retaining walls, ahead of the main construction phase beginning in spring 2025.

    Centrally located in Avondale’s town centre, when complete Te Hono aims to connect, inspire, and bring people together.

    “Our priority is to deliver Te Hono as soon as possible, at the same time as maximising value for money for ratepayers and keeping true to the community’s vision for a modern, purpose-built space for generations to enjoy,” says Taryn Crewe, Auckland Council’s general manager of Parks and Community Facilities.

    The project steering group of the council and Eke Panuku met on 24 February and agreed to run the enabling works and the main construction phase separately. This decision was taken to keep the project moving and ensure that the main construction phase is delivered at the right value.

    “The council is committed to delivering high-quality community projects that provide true value. Our intent is to manage capital projects effectively and ensure that every dollar is well spent for Aucklanders. This project reflects our commitment and strikes the right balance between fiscal responsibility and the community’s aspirations,” says Mrs Crewe.

    “This next stage of on-site work will effectively help the main construction phase this year to occur more quickly, after winter, and ensure steady progress. Come spring, you’ll see Te Hono come to life!”

    The project group continue their focus on minimizing compromises to the design, to ensure the final outcome delivers on the community’s vision and long-term needs keeping within the available budget.

    For more information, visit: Te Hono – Eke Panuku and OurAuckland

    Background Info

    Since 2019, Auckland Council and Eke Panuku Development Auckland have worked in partnership on the design and planning of Te Hono – the new Avondale library & community hub with an upgraded town square. The plan for a modern, flexible space aims to support learning, creativity, and community interactions, evolving alongside Avondale as a vibrant gathering place.

    Following an open selection process, the council signed a pre-construction services agreement with a main contractor in August 2022. Rising construction costs in 2023 resulted in a funding shortfall, so the Whau Local Board approved an updated design to simplify construction and minimise some of the costs. To secure the project’s future, Auckland Council reallocated $15 million in September 2023 from the planned Whau Aquatic and Recreation Centre development budget, reinforcing the project’s importance to the community.

    In September 2024, after finalising the detailed designs, the council’s steering group for this project invited the pre-construction services contractor to submit a final bid. After a thorough assessment and negotiations, both parties were unable to reach an agreement on the value for money and budget considerations.

    On 24 February 2025, the project steering group approved the decision to go-to-market via a competitive tendering process. 

    The council remains committed to delivering value for money within the approved overall budget for this project.

    Next steps

    At the council Project Steering Group on 24 February 2025, the decision was made to engage another council-approved contractor for the next stage of pre-construction, known as ‘enabling works’. This stage includes removing the remaining concrete and steel structure supporting the slip lane and constructing new retaining walls. This approach also allows the project to continue while the new competitive tendering process for a new main contractor is completed.

    The successful main contractor is expected to start on-site in spring 2025. 

    This approach also avoids the additional costs and risks of undertaking major earthworks during winter, including soil instability, sediment control and environmental mitigations.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland’s flood resilience pilot a success: community leadership drives expansion in 2025

    Source: Auckland Council

    Aucklanders have come together to build flood resilience, with a successful pilot programme proving the power of community action. Their efforts have paved the way for region-wide expansion in 2025, helping more neighbourhoods prepare for future storms.

    As part of Council’s Making Space for Water programme – a response to the 2023 extreme weather events – the pilot focused on promoting partnership, inclusivity, and local leadership to enhance Auckland’s flood resilience.

    Running from September 2023 to December 2024, the pilot:

    • engaged 1,424 volunteers in resilience-building activities, including clearing critical stream blockages
    • partnered with 11 organisations to amplify community leadership
    • delivered 72 community events to improve flood awareness and stormwater management
    • planted 2,512 native plants in the right places to absorb water and reduce erosion.

    Building on this success, 12 community environmental organisations have now been contracted to expand the programme regionwide in 2025 strengthening flood preparedness in at-risk communities by:

    • increasing public workshops to improve flood literacy and understanding of healthy catchments.
    • expanding stream restoration efforts to support stormwater management.
    • strengthening partnerships with mana whenua and local organisations to enhance resilience.

    “The 2023 storms showed that we needed to strengthen community connections and invest in community engagement to foster resilience,” says Tom Mansell, Auckland Council’s Head of Sustainable Partnerships.

    “This initiative ensures communities aren’t just preparing for floods—they’re actively reducing risk through education and local initiatives.”

    Alanah Mullin from EcoMatters is involved in the initiative and highlights the importance of collective action. 

    “Flooding is a growing challenge, but we can all be part of the solution. Restoring waterways and planting the right native plants in the right places can help absorb stormwater and reduce the impact of heavy rain on our communities,” she says.

    “When the city’s drainage system is overwhelmed, healthy streams can play a crucial role in moving excess water to the sea. By working together, we’re making Auckland more resilient—one neighbourhood at a time.”

    Tom Mansell agrees.

    “This initiative shows the power of community-led action. We’re not just responding to past events—we’re building a more resilient Auckland for the future.”

    For more information or to get involved, visit

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Unexplained death, Wairoa

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Inspector Dave de Lange:

    An investigation has been launched after the death of a man in Wairoa yesterday.

    Emergency services were called to a Lucknow Street address about 4pm after a man was found unresponsive.

    He was pronounced dead at the scene.

    His death is currently being treated as unexplained, and enquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances of what has occurred.

    A scene examination will commence at the property today, and a post-mortem examination will be carried out.

    Further information will be provided when it becomes available.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Bowel screening changes to save hundreds of lives

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has agreed to progressively lower the age of eligibility for bowel cancer screening tests to align with Australia.“Today, I am pleased to announce that we are taking the first step by lowering the age to 58, with redirected funding of $36 million over four years. “This means free bowel screening will become available to all New Zealanders from the ages of 58 to 74,” Health Minister Simeon Brown says.“Lowering the age of eligibility from 60 to 58 will see 122,000 Kiwis eligible for free tests in the first year and save hundreds of lives over the coming decades.“This is the first significant step we are taking to align our screening rate for bowel cancer with Australia as funding and access to additional colonoscopy resource becomes available.“The changes announced today are projected to prevent an additional 771 bowel cancers and an additional 566 bowel cancer deaths over the next 25 years.“Advice from the Ministry of Health clearly states that lowering the age to 58 for all New Zealanders will save even more lives than the previous government’s approach to lower the age to 50 for Māori and Pacific Peoples only.“Under our approach, we will be able to prevent 218 additional cancers and 176 additional deaths over 25 years in comparison to the settings proposed by the previous government.“This also aligns with the Government’s policy of ensuring that healthcare is delivered on the basis of need. “The evidence is clear: by delivering this first step for all New Zealanders, more lives will be saved. “The Government has also approved additional funding for targeted initiatives that aim to increase screening rates among population groups with low rates. Improving early detection of bowel cancers can be lifesaving, and this significant investment will be a game-changer for under-screened populations. “New Zealand has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer globally. Every year, more than 3,300 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer in New Zealand. Tragically, more than 1,200 Kiwis die from the disease. “We are committed to improving cancer detection and treatment for Kiwis. Last year we announced a $604 million uplift over four years to enable thousands more Kiwis to access life-saving cancer drugs.”“We will continue to deliver better outcomes for people with cancer as a result of the changes announced today.“By expanding eligibility for free bowel cancer screening tests, we will enable Kiwis to detect cancer earlier, undertake treatment, and ultimately save lives,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Safeguarding and strengthening Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages in schools

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Labor Government is delivering $11 million in grants to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language education in primary schools as part of its commitment to Closing the Gap.

    More than 40 communities across Australia will benefit from 26 projects under the First Nations Languages Education Program through community-driven collaborations to teach local languages.

    The initiative recognises that each community will have different aspirations and needs for teaching and sustaining First Nations languages. 

    The two-year projects will support the development of more than 100 trainee language educators and partnerships with more than 70 schools.

    The Program has been developed in partnership with First Languages Australia (FLA), the national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.

    The Program aims to progress Target 16 of Closing the Gap, to support a sustained increase in the number and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages being spoken.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:

    “This is all about strengthening the teaching of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.

    “It’s important we safeguard and strengthen local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages in community.

    “That’s why we’re providing funding to help more young Australians develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the first languages and cultures of this country.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:

    “As a proud Yanyuwa Garrwa woman, I know the importance of languages in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, the world’s oldest continuing cultures.

    “This investment in community led organisations will mean more First Nations languages are taught in schools, ensuring they thrive into the future.”

    Quotes attributable to First Languages Australia CEO, Beau Williams:

    “The First Nations Languages Education Program has empowered communities to design projects tailored to what they need, using the knowledge, people and resources they have available.

    “The program is a great investment in community led organisations and initiatives and will contribute to the revitalisation and maintenance of our languages.”

    Quotes from program participants

    Applicant- South Australia

    “Our language has not been used as an everyday language for some time. There are no fluent speakers, only two speakers confident in the use of grammar structures, and 10-12 speakers with pronunciation skills. 

    “Within the next five years, it is hoped that there will be enough language teachers for our language to be taught as a language in primary classrooms within the region. 

    “It is our hope that a broader and larger part of the community will be able to connect to the language stolen from their ancestors and them. They will have the opportunity to teach it to their children and their grandchildren. 

    “We will be able to reconnect with our way of passing on knowledge from Elders and old ones to our young people.”                 

    Applicant- Queensland

    “Our language is a highly endangered language, with less than 10 elderly speakers remaining and three speakers working on this project. We recall our childhood, when we started going to school the government took our language away from us, we weren’t allowed to speak our language at school. Now, the school is helping us to bring our language back as part of healing and walking together as a community.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ROK, USFK, CNFK Embark USS Carl Vinson, Exploring Operations and Capabilities

    Source: United States Navy (Fleet Command)

    by Ensign Rachael Jones

    03 March 2025

    AT SEA —

    Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, Commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea, ROK Navy Rear Adm. Kim Jihoon, Deputy Commander of Republic of Korea Fleet, and other guests, met with Rear Adm. Michael Wosje, commander, CSG-1, spoke to subject matter experts about carrier operations on the bridge and observed flight operations from the flight deck.

    General Brunson emphasized the carrier strike group’s capabilities and shared his thoughts on the critical role these forces play in maintaining regional security and a free and open Indo-Pacific. He also emphasized how they directly support USFK’s mission in the region.

    “The Carl Vinson’s carrier strike group operations demonstrate our commitment to bolster the defense of allies and partners and strengthen our ability to ‘fight tonight and win.’ This visit, especially when coupled with realistic all domain, joint and combined training, increases interoperability and ensures we build the readiness posture to deter aggression and maintain stability in the Republic of Korea and the region,” Brunson said. “The Carl Vinson’s presence here not only underscores the importance of both the maritime and air domains but also reaffirms our commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific by integrating these unique capabilities into our comprehensive all-domain approach.”

    The group observed flight operations and discussed how to enhance capabilities of future combined operations between ROK and U.S. Navy. Rear Adm. Kim’s visit aboard Carl Vinson highlighted the partnership and collaboration between the U.S. and ROK and demonstrated the U.S. commitment to security and stability in the region.

    “Deployment of the carrier strike group to the Korean peninsula is evidence that shows the determined willingness and executive ability for a robust combined defense posture of the Republic of Korea,” said Rear Adm. Kim.

    USFK’s mission is to deter aggression, and if necessary, defend the ROK to maintain stability in Northeast Asia.

    “Bringing senior U.S. and ROK leadership out to Vinson is an opportunity to showcase the strength, capability and lethality of a carrier strike group,” said Rear Adm. Neil Koprowski, commander, CNFK. “This visit reinforces our ironclad commitment to the ROK-U.S. alliance, supporting stability and security in the region.”

    CNFK is the U.S. Navy’s representative in the ROK. It provides leadership and expertise in naval matters that support the mission of USFK. CNFK works closely with the ROK Navy to improve institutional and operational effectiveness and to strengthen collective security efforts in the Korean Theater.

    The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group consists of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), embarked staffs of Carrier Strike Group ONE and Destroyer Squadron ONE, Carrier Air Wing Two, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett (DDG 104) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110). Carrier Air Wing Two is composed of nine squadrons flying the F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growler, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, CMV-22 Osprey and MH-60R/S Seahawks.

    The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    For more news from CSG-1 and Carl Vinson visit: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CSG1, https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN70

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: All-Russian competition “Far East – Land of Adventure” will be extended to the Arctic

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Yuri Trutnev took part in the award ceremony for the winners of the second season of the All-Russian travel competition “The Far East – Land of Adventure”

    March 5, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev announced this at the National Center “Russia” during the award ceremony for the winners of the second season of the All-Russian travel competition “Far East – Land of Adventure”. The order to expand the competition to Arctic territories was given by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    “I congratulate the winners and everyone who took part in the competition. Thank you for traveling, because it makes the world a better place, it makes your life better. You convey love for Russia, you convey love for our Far East. I am sure that the competition will continue. We will see many more wonderful films. The competition began with applications from two hundred people, this year the number of participants has tripled and amounted to more than six hundred people. At first glance, it seems that it is up to the person himself to decide where he will go to travel. But this is not so. With each route that travelers took through the Far East of our country, which they talked about and about which they made a film, people increasingly discover the beautiful Far Eastern territories,” Yuri Trutnev opened the ceremony.

    At the end of December, the application period for participation in the second season of the All-Russian competition for the best trip “The Far East – Land of Adventures” ended. In total, the organizing committee received 664 films, which is three times more than in 2022. Most often, participants went on a trip to the Sakhalin Region, where 142 films about active travel were shot. In addition, 112 films about adventures in the Khabarovsk Territory, 110 in the Kamchatka Territory, 70 in the Primorsky Territory, 57 in the Amur Region, 46 in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia), 42 films in the Republic of Buryatia, 26 in the Trans-Baikal Territory, 21 in the Jewish Autonomous Region, 20 and 18 films each in the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug and Magadan Region were admitted to the jury’s evaluation.

    The best video materials were selected by the jury members, including: TV journalist, author and host of the TV show “Neputevye Zametki” Dmitry Krylov, Arctic traveler, video blogger Bogdan Bulychev, TV host Valdis Pelsh, head of the project “More than a Journey” Olesya Teterina, State Duma deputy, author and host of the TV show “How the World Works” Timofey Bazhenov, producer of the VK project “Places” Nikita Afinogenov and other experienced travelers. The chairman of the jury was the editor-in-chief of the TV channel “My Planet” Nikolay Tabashnikov. In addition, the winners of the first season of the competition took part in the evaluation of the works: Elena Poddubnaya, Ernest Leonidov, Alisa Slyshchenko.

    The Grand Prix (the best trip to the Far East) was awarded to Moscow resident Ilya Bolshakov, a senior research fellow at the Geological Faculty of Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov, for a trip to the Sakhalin Region. On the Kuril Island of Onekotan, the traveler visited the extinct Krenitsyn volcano, which is also called a “volcano within a volcano” and is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. “As a child, I did not dream of becoming a traveler. I did not dream of mountains or tents. I grew up as an ordinary child. It is even more amazing now to realize that I have become a geologist. And together with my friends, I spent 26 days last summer on an uninhabited island in the Pacific Ocean. During this time, we walked more than 200 km, covered 15 km by water and conquered one of the most unusual mountains on Earth,” the traveler said.

    In the nomination “Best Hiking Trip”, the first and third places were awarded to trips around the Sakhalin Region. Both travelers are residents of Moscow. The first place was taken by Anastasia Kolonskaya for her trip around the Sakhalin Region. The contestant covered 100 km in ten days, inspired by the picturesque expanses of Kunashir Island. During her trip, she saw the Tyatya volcano, the columnar rock (kekur) Monakh, or, as it is also called, the Devil’s Finger, Cape Stolbchaty and many other places. The film was shot in the format of reading hiking notes and supplemented with the author’s sketches. Third place went to Grigory Gorchakov, who traveled to the northern Kuril Islands and delighted the jury with views of untouched, wild nature. Second place was awarded to Nikita Bulanov, a resident of Buryatia, for a trip around his region. An eight-minute video about the filming of the movie “Along the Taiga, Lake and Steppe” about a journey through the picturesque places of the republic and the difficult history of one family was submitted to the competition.

    First place in the nomination “Best Water Journey” was awarded to Viktor Kitsan. He submitted an eight-minute film “Home” about family, love, strength and a journey across the Sea of Japan. Second place in the nomination was awarded to Valery Reitenberg, a resident of Khabarovsk Krai, for a journey to the Kuril Islands. Third place was awarded to a journey across Kamchatka Krai. Vyacheslav Borisovsky, a resident of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, presented the film “Kamchatka. On Distant Shores”. The route of the journey on a sailing yacht ran from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky through Vilyuchinsky Bay, where the author took photographs of the volcano of the same name, to Cape Kekurny to photograph the life of walruses and listen to the bay.

    Two places in the nomination “Best Winter Trip” – the second and third – were taken by trips around Buryatia. The awards were received by residents of the region. Buda Tsydypov, who took second place, is engaged in organizing hiking tourism with a focus on mountaineering, helps in organizing ecological trails in the Eastern Sayan Mountains. He presented a route for climbing the highest peak of the Sayan Mountains, Munku-Sardyk. Third place was received by Elihan Batotsyrenov. He sent to the competition the film “Nukhen Daban – The Path of Discoveries” about the journey of a group of ten brave explorers through the majestic mountains. First place in the nomination was awarded to Mikhail Nepogodin, a resident of the Khabarovsk Territory, for a trip through the Badzhalsky Range – a mountain range located in the Verkhnebureinsky District.

    The winner in the category “Unlimited Possibilities” was Elena Zinovieva, who traveled around Kamchatka with her son. “My son has been blind since birth, but this does not stop us from traveling around Kamchatka. The most desired moment was when we crossed the Sea of Okhotsk by plane. The joyful emotions of the child when I tell him where we are flying are worth a lot. I am the child’s eyes and am always next to him,” says the traveler.

    12-year-old Diana Abazova won in the nomination “Best Children’s Travel”. The young resident of Khabarovsk Krai traveled to the place of power of her native region – Mount Magloy, considered sacred by the Nanai people.

    In the nomination “Best Journey with Marine Life” the winner was Muscovite Valentin Morozov for his trip to see bowhead whales in Wrangel Bay in Khabarovsk Krai.

    “A lot has been said about the unique nature of the Far Eastern regions. But I want to emphasize how incredible the people of the Far East are. In the ocean, in the mountains, in the harsh taiga, it is impossible to lie or dissemble. The feeling of elbow, support both in one’s own strength and in those who are nearby – this is what distinguishes the Far East and helps the region to develop rapidly. And of course, only such people, with a powerful character and a huge soul, can be allowed close to the mysterious inhabitants of the sea depths,” noted the Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexey Chekunkov.

    The winner of the special nomination “Best Trip to Chukotka” was Nikita Bereznyakov. He presented the film “On Foot in Chukotka. In the Footsteps of Ancient Eskimos”.

    “Chukotka is a special region in the Far East: a new day begins astronomically here, the sun rises. We have magnificent, unforgettable nature, one of the largest nature reserves “Beringia”, along the shores of which whales migrate. You can come and take pictures with them. When we established this nomination, we really wanted many films to be made. It is impossible to make a good film if you do not love the place you are talking about, if you do not love Chukotka. And love is very easily transmitted. And it really worked out. Many thanks to those who did it,” emphasized the Governor of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug Vladislav Kuznetsov.

    The non-competitive prize for “Best Nature Film” was awarded to the full-length film “Fire Fox”.

    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 Asia-Pac: DH investigates Legionnaires’ Disease cluster

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DH investigates Legionnaires’ Disease cluster
    **********************************************

    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 5) announced that it is investigating a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease (LD) cases involving four members of a tour group to Qingyuan and Foshan. The CHP appealed to those who participated in the package tours organised by the Sino Step Travel Services to Qingyuan and Foshan from February 20 to 28 to contact the CHP for health assessment and medical surveillance.       An epidemiological investigation was launched immediately after the CHP received a notification that a 77-year-old female was infected with LD. It was subsequently found that two males and one female who had joined the same tour group were also infected with LD. The four patients involved two males and two females, who aged between 61 and 77.       The four persons concerned joined the above tour groups to Qingyuan and Foshan during the incubation period (travel dates: February 20 to 22; tour code: LB3280). Initial investigation revealed that they did not have common local exposure history. Therefore, they are believed to have become infected during the outbound tour and were classified as imported cases.      The Sino Step Travel Services organised two other tours (both with tour code LB3280) with the same itineraries and hotel accommodation recently, held from February 21 to 23 and February 26 to 28 respectively. For the sake of prudence, the CHP is actively contacting the participants of the three tour groups to follow up on their health conditions. The CHP also appealed to them to call the CHP’s hotline (telephone number: 2125 2670) for follow up and medical surveillance. The hotline will be operating from tomorrow (March 6) to March 14, from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 1pm on Saturday and Sunday. They should seek medical advice immediately if they have a fever or feel unwell.          The CHP has informed the Travel Industry Authority and reported the case to the health authorities of Guangdong. Epidemiological investigations are still in progress.      Men, people aged over 50, smokers, alcoholics and persons with weakened immunity are more susceptible to LD. Some situations may also increase the risk of infection, including poor maintenance of water systems; living in areas with old water systems, cooling towers or fountains; using electric water heaters, whirlpools and spas or hot water spring spas; and recent stays in hotels or vessels.          Legionellae are found in various environmental settings and grow well in warm water (20 to 45 degrees Celsius). They can be found in aqueous environments such as water tanks, hot and cold water systems, cooling towers, whirlpools and spas, water fountains and home apparatus that support breathing. People may become infected when they breathe in contaminated droplets (aerosols) and mist generated by artificial water systems, or when handling garden soil, compost and potting mixes.     Immunocompromised persons should:

    Use sterile or boiled water for drinking, tooth brushing and mouth rinsing;
    Avoid using humidifiers, or other mist- or aerosol-generating devices; and
    If using humidifiers, or other mist- or aerosol-generating devices, fill the water tank with only sterile or cooled freshly boiled water, and not water directly from the tap. Also, clean and maintain humidifiers/devices regularly according to manufacturers’ instructions. Never leave stagnant water in a humidifier/device. Empty the water tank, wipe all surfaces dry, and change the water daily.

    The public should observe the health advice below:

    Observe personal hygiene;
    Do not smoke and avoid alcohol consumption;
    Strainers in water taps and shower heads should be inspected, cleaned, descaled and disinfected regularly or at a frequency recommended by the manufacturer;
    If a fresh-water plumbing system is properly maintained, it is not necessary to install domestic water filters. Use of water filters is not encouraged as clogging occurs easily, which can promote growth of micro-organisms. In case water filters are used, the pore size should be 0.2 micrometres (µm) and the filter needs to be changed periodically according to the manufacturer’s recommendations;
    Drain and clean water tanks of buildings at least quarterly;
    Drain or purge for at least one minute infrequently used water outlets (e.g. water taps, shower heads and hot water outlets) and stagnant points of the pipework weekly or before use;
    Seek and follow doctors’ professional advice regarding the use and maintenance of home respiratory devices and use only sterile water (not distilled or tap water) to clean and fill the reservoir. Clean and maintain the device regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. After cleaning/disinfection, rinse the device with sterile water, cooled freshly boiled water or water filtered with 0.2 µm filters. Never leave stagnant water in the device. Empty the water tank, keep all surfaces dry, and change the water daily; and
    When handling garden soil, compost and potting mixes:

    Wear gloves and a face mask;
    Water gardens and compost gently using low pressure;
    Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face;
    Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants; and
    Avoid working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses.

    ​​The public may visit the CHP’s LD page, the Code of Practice for Prevention of LD and the Housekeeping Guidelines for Cold and Hot Water Systems for Building Management of the Prevention of LD Committee, and the CHP’s risk-based strategy for prevention and control of LD.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 21:28

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Director of Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of CPC Central Committee and Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of State Council meets CE in Beijing (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Director of Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of CPC Central Committee and Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of State Council meets CE in Beijing (with photo)
    ******************************************************************************************

    ​The Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, Mr Xia Baolong, met the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, who was in attendance at the opening meeting of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), in Beijing today (March 5).     Mr Xia said that the Central Government remains committed in fully and faithfully implementing the principle of “one country, two systems”, and will continue to fully support Hong Kong and Macao in integrating into national development. Mr Xia noted that under the leadership of Mr Lee, the governance team of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has been resolutely implementing the guiding principles of important speeches by President Xi Jinping on Hong Kong and Macao affairs and the Central Government’s strategic decisions. Mr Xia said that by proactively identifying, adapting to, and driving change, the team has firmly safeguarded high-level security and strenuously promoted high-quality development, while uniting all sectors of society to focus on economic growth, pursue development and advance infrastructure, achieving good results in the areas. Mr Xia expressed his confidence that the HKSAR Government and the Hong Kong community will seize opportunities, pursue reforms and endeavour to fully leverage the institutional strengths of “one country, two systems”, consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre, establish an international hub for high-calibre talents, and in turn expedite the city’s transition from stability to prosperity, making greater contributions to the building of a great country in all respects and advancing toward national rejuvenation through Chinese modernisation.     Mr Lee expressed his gratitude for the Central Authorities’ support and recognition of the efforts of the HKSAR Government. He also expressed his gratitude for Mr Xia’s guidance and care for the HKSAR. Mr Lee said that 2025 marks the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan, and is an important year in further deepening reform comprehensively. He said that since assuming office, the current term of the HKSAR Government has striven to consolidate and realise the positioning of the “eight centres” under the 14th Five-Year Plan, proactively attracting businesses and talent while expanding economic and trade networks. The Government has introduced multiple reform measures, including over 600 policy initiatives spanning diverse sectors outlined in last year’s Policy Address, specially themed “Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future”. These measures aim to deepen reforms and uncover new economic growth areas, while upholding the city’s principle and embracing innovation. Mr Lee said that the measures will consolidate Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre, establish an international hub for high-calibre talents, accelerate Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology centre, and advance such developments as the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone.     Mr Lee remarked that the HKSAR Government will continue to unite all sectors of society in driving innovation and reform, and better understand, respond to and embrace changes. Giving full play to its institutional strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle and unique strengths in internationalisation, Hong Kong will further strengthen its bridging role between the Mainland and the world, actively integrate into national development, and contribute to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development and the Belt and Road Initiative, telling the good stories of the country and Hong Kong. Mr Lee highlighted that in collaboration with the community, the HKSAR Government will earnestly study and implement the spirit of the third session of the 14th NPC and the third session of the 14th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference National Committee, foster unity, and achieve greater development for Hong Kong, thereby making greater contributions to the building of a great country in all respects and advancing toward national rejuvenation.     Deputy Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council Mr Wang Linggui, and the Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Carol Yip, also joined the meeting.

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 23:01

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Keynote speech by SITI at GSMA Ministerial Programme of Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Keynote speech by SITI at GSMA Ministerial Programme of Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona (English only)
    ******************************************************************************************

    Following is the keynote speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) Ministerial Programme of the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, Spain on March 5 (Barcelona time): Distinguished speakers, guests, ladies and gentlemen,      Buenas tardes! Good afternoon! It is a privilege to join you all at the MWC Barcelona 2025, Europe’s pre-eminent mobile tech summit hosted in the fascinating city of Barcelona.           Renowned for its architectural brilliance and rich cultural tapestry, Barcelona is undoubtedly a beacon of creativity in Europe. More than ten thousand kilometers away, Hong Kong shares the same dynamic spirit and strong commitment to innovation. This brings me here today to share with you Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (I&T) landscape as well as opportunities that connect people around the world. Hong Kong: Our odyssey to be an International I&T Centre      Well known for the free, international and business-friendly environment, Hong Kong ranks first in Asia and third in the world in the Global Financial Centres Index. The success of this Asia’s World City is our spirit of embracing changes and evolving with times.           The theme of this year’s MWC Barcelona, “Converge, Connect, Create”, aptly encapsulates the key directions of Hong Kong’s new mission. We are racing to become an international I&T centre, as enshrined in our I&T Development Blueprint promulgated in 2022. We strive to perfect Hong Kong’s I&T ecosystem with conducive policies to support the development of strategic tech industries, including AI and robotics, life and health technologies, new energy and advanced manufacturing industries.           The Blueprint not only converges and connects our game plan on technological innovation and talent cultivation, but also creates new impetus to Hong Kong’s high quality development and enhances our citizens’ quality of life with day-to-day convenience brought about by technology innovation. Bridging the digital divide by building a Smart City and a Digital Inclusive Society      Hong Kong is among the world’s top 20 smart cities in the Smart City Index released by the IMD (International Institute for Management Development). One of the board development direction set out in our I&T Blueprint is to promote digital economy and develop Hong Kong into a smart city. Over the years, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has rolled out various measures to make Hong Kong a more advanced and livable smart city, such as developing new digital infrastructure, opening up public data, and enhancing government services by applying advanced technologies such as blockchain and IoT (Internet of Things).           Indeed, one of the best testimonies to a city’s I&T achievement is the degree of digitalisation. In Hong Kong, all submissions and payments to the Government have electronic options. More than three millions of people are enjoying the convenience and efficiency of accessing government services and online identity verification through a mobile application called “iAM Smart”. A corporate version of “iAM Smart”, nick-named CorpID, is upcoming too.      Known for the cultural diversity and international landscape, digital inclusiveness is an area that we take pride in. In Hong Kong, where the household broadband penetration rate and smartphone penetration rate are both approximately 97 per cent, the internet usage rate among Hong Kong citizens aged 65 and above rocketed, from 56 per cent in 2018 to 84 per cent in 2023, slightly ahead of the European rate of around 78 per cent.           Hong Kong’s life expectancy has seen a steady increase over the past half century, reaching 83 years for men and 88 years for women in 2023. As society becomes so digitally knitted and increasingly mobile, we recently launched the “Smart Silver” Digital Inclusion Programme for Elders, to address the challenges of an increasingly aging society. This programme fortifies our digital inclusive efforts by providing elders with community-based training and on-the-spot helpdesks to enhance elders’ knowledge on new digital technologies and support their navigation by common mobile applications. Hong Kong’s Research and Development (R&D) Excellence driving global I&T collaboration      Global collaboration is a necessity to tackle unprecedented challenges. Hong Kong is the only city in the world housing five of the world’s top 100 universities, providing a readily available pool of R&D capabilities, know-how and talent. These favourable conditions make possible many scientific and technological breakthroughs by harnessing cutting-edge innovations from both the East and the West.           You may wish to know that our flagship R&D initiative – InnoHK has built collaboration with more than 30 world-renowned universities and research institutes from 12 economies, set up a total of 30 research laboratories. Of these, 16 of them focus on AI and robotics-related technologies. Our goal is to converge top-notch researchers from all over the world to conduct world-class and impactful collaborative researches.      The vigorous development of AI is reshaping global economic landscape. Our AI Supercomputing Centre has just commenced operation, and the computing power will be ramped up gradually to 3 000 petaFLOPS this year. Newly announced in our annual Government Budget last week, we will earmark $1 billion Hong Kong dollars, equivalent to 120 million euros, for the establishment of the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute. Hong Kong stands ready to play a full role in promoting global I&T collaboration. Hong Kong: an Ideal Home to I&T enterprises and start-ups      In fact, Hong Kong stands in a prime location for I&T and business collaborations. With the distinctive advantages of “one country, two systems”, over 1 400 companies from outside Hong Kong have set up regional headquarters in Hong Kong, including some global tech giants. Our strategic location and unique role as a “super-connector” and “super value-adder” empower them to tap into the vast markets of Mainland China including the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the Asia-Pacific region and also the Belt-and-Road countries.           Hong Kong is also an ideal home for breeding I&T start-ups. According to the Global Start-up Ecosystem Report 2024, Hong Kong ranks first in Asia and third globally among the top 100 emerging ecosystems. As of 2024, the number of start-ups in Hong Kong has surged to about 4 700, reaching the record highs.           Our two I&T flagships, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and the digital tech-oriented Cyberport, provide robust support for start-ups through various incubation programmes. They also offer opportunities for start-ups to participate in I&T mega events, which include, of course, the MWC Barcelona. If you are interested in discovering Hong Kong’s vibrant I&T scene, be sure to visit the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion at Hall 6 and speak to our tech ventures there. Concluding remarks      Ladies and gentlemen, I hope my sharing just now could vividly show the colours of Hong Kong’s I&T scene, just like the beautiful city of Barcelona. Seeing is believing. I welcome you all to Hong Kong to explore more on our robust digital infrastructure, smart city initiatives and digital economy development.           Before I close, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to GSMA for inviting me to the Ministerial Programme. I wish everyone here a fruitful exchange. Gracias! Thank you!

    Ends/Wednesday, March 5, 2025Issued at HKT 23:25

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – STUDENT FILM SHOWCASE BRINGS FOCUS TO CLIMATE ACTION, March 5, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – STUDENT FILM SHOWCASE BRINGS FOCUS TO CLIMATE ACTION, March 5, 2025

    Posted on Mar 5, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

         JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

     

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

     

    STUDENT FILM SHOWCASE BRINGS FOCUS TO CLIMATE ACTION

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    March 5, 2025

    HONOLULU — The Sustainability Film Series: Student Film Showcase, an event highlighting action and engagement around climate change mitigation, takes place this Sunday, March 9, at the Doris Duke Theatre in Honolulu. Community members are invited to attend free of charge.

    The Sustainability Film Series, presented by the Hawaiʻi State Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission (CCMAC) in collaboration with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Institute for Sustainability and Resilience, the Better Tomorrow Speaker Series and the Honolulu Museum of Art, showcases a selection of short films on climate action created by students from the School of Cinematic Arts at UH Mānoa.

    Following the screenings there will be a Q&A with the filmmakers, offering an opportunity for the community to engage with the creative minds behind the films.

    The series explores contemporary topics and aims to inspire public engagement on important social and environmental issues impacting Hawaiʻi and the Pacific region. Through thought-provoking films and a lively panel discussion, the event seeks to build connections among students and the broader community to support cooperative action toward lasting climate change solutions.

    Event details:

    • Date and Time: Sunday, March 9, 5:00 p.m.
    • Location: Doris Duke Theatre at the Honolulu Museum of Art
    • Admission: Free with registration
    • Register online at www.honolulumuseum.org/events

    # # # 

     

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    Flyer: attached

     

    Event Registration (direct link): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sustainability-film-series-student-film-showcase-tickets-1236615031849?aff=oddtdtcreator

    For more information, contact Bill Unruh, Climate Outreach Leader at: [email protected].

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396

    Email: Dlnr.comms@hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS RELEASE: DBEDT REDUCES HAWAI‘I ECONOMIC GROWTH RATE TO 1.7 PERCENT FOR 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    NEWS RELEASE: DBEDT REDUCES HAWAI‘I ECONOMIC GROWTH RATE TO 1.7 PERCENT FOR 2025

    Posted on Mar 5, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

    KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOMOHALA PĀʻOIHANA, ʻIMI WAIWAI A HOʻOMĀKAʻIKAʻI

     

    RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS DIVISION

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    1. EUGENE TIAN

    CHIEF STATE ECONOMIST

     

    DBEDT REDUCES HAWAI‘I ECONOMIC GROWTH RATE TO 1.7 PERCENT FOR 2025

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    March 5, 2025

    The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) released its first quarter 2025 Statistical and Economic Report today. In the report, DBEDT adjusted its economic growth projections for 2025 to 1.7 percent, lower than the 2.0 percent projected in the previous quarter. The downward adjustment was mainly due to the expected slowdown in tourism growth, higher projected consumer inflation and increasing policy uncertainty at the national and international levels. Economic growth is expected to reach 2.0 percent in 2026 and to continue steady growth to 1.8 percent in 2028. The labor market is expected to remain stable, with low unemployment.

     

    The resilience of Hawaiʻi’s economic growth in the next few years will rely on the strong performance of construction, real estate, health care, professional services, and the continued recovery of tourism.

    Economic Recovery Status

    As measured by real gross domestic product (GDP), Hawai‘i’s economy rebounded to exceed pre-pandemic (first three quarters of 2019) levels by 1.5 percent during the first three quarters of 2024. Hawai‘i’s overall economy was fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels by the third quarter of 2023. By comparison, the U.S. economy has been fully recovered since the first quarter of 2021. Hawaiʻi was the second-slowest state in terms of economic recovery from the 2019 COVID recession. The U.S. economy was 12.6 percent higher than the 2019 level for the same indicator during the same period.

    While tourism-related sectors (Accommodation, Transportation, Retail Trade, Recreation, and Food Services) have only recovered to 94.5 percent of pre-pandemic levels as of the third quarter of 2024, non-tourism sectors have shown firm growth. Compared to real GDP in the last quarter of 2019, the Information sector has grown by 35.1 percent; the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector by 25.0 percent; the Agricultural sector by 14.9 percent, and the Health Care and Social Assistance sector by 12.9 percent. The Wholesale Trade, Utilities, Accommodation and Food Services, and Other Services sectors are still below real GDP levels for the first three quarters of 2019.

    Compared to 2019, statewide non-agriculture annual average payroll jobs were still short by 20,900 jobs in 2024. However, Construction annual average payroll jobs were above 2019 levels by 4,000 jobs, Health Care and Social Assistance by 2,900, and Private Educational Services by 700. Job counts in all other sectors were still lower than the levels in 2019. Retail Trade lost the most jobs at 6,900, followed by Financial Activities at 3,200, and Accommodations at 3,000.

    During 2024, total visitor arrivals recovered 93.3 percent from the levels of 2019. Visitors from the U.S. increased by 6.7 percent, while international visitor recovery was 64.9 percent. The recovery rate of Japanese visitors was 45.7 percent and for Canadian visitors, the recovery rate was 80.2 percent.

    Visitor arrivals to the island of Maui during 2024 were 76.6 percent of the level in 2019. Arrivals to O‘ahu were at 94.5 percent and arrivals to Hawai‘i Island were at 98.0 percent of the same period 2019 levels. Visitor arrivals to Kaua‘i were flat between the two periods.

    Construction Industry Continues Booming

     

    Statistics in the construction industry were great in 2024 and will have positive impacts on activities in 2025 and beyond. DBEDT estimates that construction activity in 2025 will be stronger than previously expected for several reasons:

    1. The value of all building permits approved in 2024 increased by 27.1 percent from 2023 and most of these projects will be under construction in 2025.
    2. The number of residential housing units authorized in 2024 increased by 78.1 percent as compared with 2023, and it was the highest in the past 17 years.
    3. Construction completed as measured by the state contracting tax base increased 20.3 percent during the first 10 months of 2024 from the same period in 2023. DBEDT estimated that total construction value in 2024 could be over $14 billion.
    4. Based on preliminary estimates, construction industry payroll jobs increased 9.2 percent in 2024 as compared with 2023.
    5. A significant number of government construction projects are either ongoing or in the pipeline to be started.
    6. More than 1,000 hotel units are either under construction or will start construction, with plans to open in 2025 and 2026.

     

     

    Home Sales and Prices Continue Increasing

     

    After declining 26 percent in 2023, Hawai‘i home sales as recorded at the Bureau of Conveyances increased 15.1 percent during 2024. Sales of single-family homes increased 14.3 percent and sales of condominium homes increased 15.9 percent. The average sale price of single-family homes was $1,093,445 during 2024, representing an 8.1 percent increase compared to 2023. The average sale price for condominium homes was $797,674, representing an increase of 5.7 percent from the year before.

     

     

    Tourism Industry Growth is Likely to Slow Down

     

    According to the airline schedules, total air seats to the state will decrease by 1.1 percent during the first 10 months of 2025. The decrease is mainly due to the decrease in flights from international locations, especially from Japan. The number of air seats on international flights is expected to decrease by 5.5 percent during the first 10 months of 2025 as compared with the same period in 2024. Air seats will decrease 5.5 percent from Japan, decrease 5.1 percent from Canada, and decline 3.2 percent from the Other Asia market, but will increase 1.7 percent from the Oceania market (Australia and New Zealand).

    The number of scheduled air seats from the continental U.S. is flat during the first 10 months of 2025, an increase of a mere of 0.1 percent. While air seats from the U.S. East will increase 2.7 percent, seats will decrease by 0.2 percent from the U.S. West market. Part of the decrease in the air seats from the U.S. West market is the result of flight consolidations between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines after their merger.

     

     

    Labor Market Remains Stable

     

    In 2024, the unemployment rate decreased 0.1 percentage point from the previous year’s 3.0 percent, to reach 2.9 percent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Hawai‘i was among the 17 U.S. states without statistically significant unemployment rate changes from December 2023 to December 2024 (seasonally adjusted). Hawai‘i’s unemployment rate was the 10th lowest in the U.S. during 2024.

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, Hawai‘i’s non-agricultural wage and salary jobs averaged 645,800 jobs, an increase of 10,400 jobs or 1.6 percent from the same quarter of 2023.  In 2024, average non-agricultural wage and salary jobs increased 0.9 percent or 5,500 jobs from the previous year. The job increase in the fourth quarter of 2024 was due to job increases in both the private sector and the government sector. In that quarter, the private sector added about 8,600 non-agricultural jobs compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. The number of jobs increased the most in Construction, which added 3,400 jobs or 8.9%, followed by Health Care and Social Assistance, which added 2,100 jobs or 2.8 percent, Food Services and Drinking Places, which added 1,900 jobs or 2.9 percent, Professional and Business Services, which added 1,400 jobs or 2.0 percent, and Accommodations, which added 700 jobs or 1.8 percent in the quarter.

    The average number of weekly initial unemployment claims was 1,090 during 2024, lower than the weekly average experienced in 2019 at 1,200. All counties have seen decreased and stable unemployment claims, but the average weekly unemployment claims for Maui County numbered 204 during 2024, 42 percent higher than the 2019 level of 144.

    DBEDT expects that the labor market conditions will remain stable and that the unemployment rate will improve slightly in 2025.

    Consumer Inflation Remains High

    Honolulu consumer inflation, as measured by the Honolulu Consumer Price Index for Urban Consumers (CPI-U), was 4.4 percent in 2024, 1.4 percentage points higher than the state’s inflation rate in 2023. This measurement was 1.5 percentage points above the 2.9 percent U.S. inflation rate.

    In 2024, Honolulu consumer inflation was mainly driven up by Housing which increased 7.1 percent compared to 2023, and Food and Beverages (3.8 percent). Housing normally accounts for 50 percent of Honolulu consumer inflation.

    In January 2025, the Honolulu consumer inflation rate was at 4.1 percent, still higher than the U.S. consumer inflation at 3.0 percent. Honolulu consumer inflation in January 2025 was mainly in transportation (+6.8 percent), housing (+4.4 percent), and food and beverages (+4.4 percent).

    National and International Economic Conditions

    U.S. real GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the fourth quarter a year ago, according to the latest estimate released by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Real GDP increased 2.8 percent in 2024 from the 2023 annual level.

    Policy uncertainty with respect to the imposition of tariffs and potential trade wars have negatively impacted the U.S. and global outlook for growth and inflation.

    According to the most recent (February 2025) economic projections by the top 50 economic forecasting organizations published in Blue Chip Economic Indicators, U.S. economic growth is expected to be 2.2 percent in 2025 and 2.0 percent in 2026.

    In February 2025, compared to January 2025, the Blue Chip International Consensus Forecasts for economic growth have been revised downward for 2025 in Canada and for the European countries. It was revised upward (0.1 percentage point) for Japan. The projected Japanese exchange rate was maintained at around 148.1 yen per dollar in 2025.

    The Federal Reserve kept its fed funds rate (FFR) target unchanged at its January 28-29 FOMC meeting. The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rates twice last year, reducing the Federal Funds rate by 75 basis points to a range of 4.5 percent to 4.75 percent. The market expectations of the future number and magnitude of cuts by the Federal Reserve have been reduced in recent surveys. Inflation expectations have also been revised upward.

    Forecasting Results

     

    In the newly released report, DBEDT predicts that the economic growth rate for Hawai‘i, as measured by the year-over-year percentage change in real GDP, to slow down to 1.7 percent in 2025, reflecting policy uncertainty at the national and international levels. Economic growth is expected to reach 2.0 percent in 2026 and will show steady growth to around 1.8 percent in 2028.

     

    Visitor arrivals are projected to increase by 1.0 percent in 2025 and will grow at a stable pace of around 2 percent each year between 2026 and 2028. Full recovery in arrivals will not happen until 2028 when 10.4 million visitors will come to the state. Visitor spending is projected to be $21.3 billion in 2025 and is expected to increase to $23.7 billion by 2028.

     

    Non-agriculture payroll jobs are expected to grow by 1.2 percent in 2025, with growth of 1.1 percent, 1.0 percent and 0.9 percent in 2026, 2027, and 2028, respectively. A full recovery of non-agriculture payroll jobs is expected to occur in 2027, when the total will reach 658,800 jobs, surpassing the 2019 total of 658,600.

     

    The state unemployment rate is expected to be 2.9 percent in 2025 and will improve to 2.7 percent in 2026, and 2.6 percent in 2027 and 2028. Personal income is expected to grow at 4.9 percent in 2025, 4.8 percent in 2026, 4.6 percent in 2027 and 4.5 percent in 2028.

     

    As measured by the Honolulu Consumer Price Index for Urban Consumers, inflation is expected to be at 3.9 percent in 2025, which is higher than the projected U.S. consumer inflation rate of 2.7 percent for the same year. Hawai‘i consumer inflation is expected to decrease to 2.9 percent by 2028.

     

    Hawai‘i’s population is expected to increase by 0.2 percent each year for 2025 and 2026 and at 0.3 percent each year for 2027 and 2028.

     

     

    Statement of DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka

    While the domestic and international economic outlook has become more uncertain, we expect Hawai‘i’s economy to demonstrate resiliency. In addition to firm performance in the construction industry, we will continue to see growth in other industries including professional services and healthcare. We expect that the tourism industry will continue to recover in the next few years, even if at a slower pace than previously anticipated.

     

    With the income tax reform and the increase in the supply of affordable housing, we expect that living in our state will be more affordable and support our state’s workforce formation and retention.

     

    The full report is available at dbedt.hawaii.gov/economic/qser/.

     

    # # #

     

    Media Contacts:

    Dr. Eugene Tian

    Research and Economic Analysis Division

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
    Phone: 808-586-2470
    Email:     [email protected]

     

    Laci Goshi

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    Cell: 808-518-5480

    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Intelligence Vice Chair Warner on Move to Cease Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chairman Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement:
    “The Trump administration has followed its recent ill-advised and weak decision to cut off military assistance to Ukraine by now also callously shutting off intelligence sharing with the hard-pressed Ukrainians as they continue to defend their country against the ongoing military onslaught of Vladimir Putin’s army. Instead of standing up to Putin, President Trump has given away American power to Russia – from voting at the UN with Russia and North Korea and against all of our allies, to directly negotiating with Russia at the highest levels while excluding Ukraine, to refusing to condemn Vladimir Putin’s dictatorship while unjustly calling the democratically elected Ukrainian president a ‘dictator’ and ejecting him from the White House. And, all the while, Putin has not let up on his illegal assault against Ukraine. Allied intelligence support has been crucial to enable Ukraine to defend itself from the first days of the conflict in February 2022, to unmask Russian invasion plans and intentions, and to save countless innocent lives. Let me be clear: Cutting off intelligence support to our Ukrainian partners will cost lives.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the Post-Budget Webinar on the theme ‘Investing in People’

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the Post-Budget Webinar on the theme ‘Investing in People’

    The vision of Investment in People is based on 3 pillars: Education, Skill and Healthcare”; increasing investment in these sectors will contribute to actualizing the dream of Viksit Bharat: Prime Minister

    “Through day-care cancer centres and digital healthcare infrastructure, we want to take quality healthcare to the last mile”

    “Initiatives like ‘Heal in India’ are attracting medical tourists from around the world. Efforts are being made to establish India as a global tourism and wellness hub”

    Since 2014, the number of medical colleges has surged from 387 to 780; remarkable increase observed in undergraduate and postgraduate medical seats, with an increase of 130% and 135% respectively: Union Health Minister

    There is a need for creating a curriculum that is more vibrant, meaningful and fit to current challenges, optimum utilization of existing health infrastructure and emphasised the need to enhance the soft skills of the medical students: Shri Nadda

    Posted On: 05 MAR 2025 9:34PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Post-Budget Webinar on employment via video conferencing, today. The theme of the webinarwas “Investing in People, Economy, and Innovation,”which was attended by 29 Ministries of the Government of India, 100 panelists and more than 25,000 participants to discuss 43 articles of the recent Union Budget 2025-26.

    Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister underlined that “the theme of the webinar, ‘Investing in People’, defines the roadmap of Viksit Bharat and the impact of this theme can be seen at a large level on the budget.” He underlined that “the budget has emerged to be the ‘blueprint of India’s future’ where investing in people, economy and innovation has been given equal priority to investment in infrastructure and industry.”

    Prime Minister emphasized that “capacity-building and talent-nurturing will prove to be the foundation stones of the country’s progress, therefore in the next stage of development, we need to increase investment in these sectors. For which, all the stakeholders need to come forward as it is not only necessary for the economic success of the country but also for the success of all organizations.”

    Prime Minister highlighted that “the vision of Investment in People is based on 3 pillars: Education, Skill and Healthcare” and urged all the stakeholders “to increase investment in these sectors” and contribute to the government’s vision for these sectors to actualize the dream of Viksit Bharat.

    Highlighting the government’s efforts and the budget’s provisions, the Prime Minister stated that “in the budget, 10,000 additional medical seats have been announced and the government is working with the target of adding 75,000 seats in medical education in the next 5 years.”

    Highlighting the developments in the healthcare landscape, the Prime Minister stated that “tele-medicine facility is being expanded to all the Primary Health Centres.ThroughDay Care Cancer Centres and digital healthcare infrastructure, we want to take quality healthcare to the last mile that will ensure significant transformation in people’s lives.”

    Highlighting the importance and potential of the tourism sector, the Prime Minister stated that initiatives like “Heal in India” are attracting medical tourists from around the world” and “efforts are being made in the direction of making India a global-level tourism and wellness hub.” He urged all the stakeholders in the healthcare sector “to grab this opportunity and invest to promote health tourism” and emphasized on “utilizing the potential of Yoga and wellness tourism.”

    The Prime Minister also called for a detailed discussion and an extended roadmap for increasing the scope of medical tourism and urged all the stakeholders to work in the direction of making the budget announcements a reality so that their benefits can be taken to the people.

    Addressing the gathering, Union Minister for Health & Family, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda stated that “the biggest investment is the investment in people”. He underlined that the government is working with a “holistic approach” that focuses not only at the curative aspect but also on the preventive, palliative, and rehabilitative approach. He added that “we are also trying to include the AYUSH and other medical systems to ensure the availability and access to heathcare for the people.”

    Shri Nadda stated that “since the cancer treatment is a lengthy process with long cycle of chemotherapy, the government is focusing on engaging with Day Care Cancer Centres rather than big hospitals to ensure engagement of patients, post-chemotherapy sessions. The government will establish Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs) in all district hospitals over the next three years, with establishing 200 this year itself.”

    Underlining the importance of strengthening the medical health system, the UnionHealthMinister reiterated the budget announcements of additional medical seats. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure the availability and accessibility of quality healthcare to the people through more than 1.75 lakh Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs and facility of voluntary screenings for individuals aged 30 years and above at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs for oral, breast and cervical cancers along with the screening for hypertension and diabetes.

    Shri Nadda highlighted the government’s efforts for facilitating self-assessment of healthcare facilities and ensure the adherence of all the Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs with the National Quality Assurance Standards. He also added that “since 2014, the number of medical colleges has surged from 387 to 780 today, He emphasized the remarkable increase in both undergraduate and postgraduate medical seats, with an increase of 130% and 135% respectively.”

    Shri Nadda also underlined the key challenges identified and suggestions made during the webinar, including faculty development, periodic assessment of faculty gaps and timely recruitment after assessment to avoid any hindrances before running education and ensure smooth functioning in medical colleges. He also supported the suggestions like faculty pooling among medical institutes, hiring retired teachers as visiting faculties for making the unviable institutions viable; incorporation of competency-based medical education, early clinical exposure for students, and enhanced communication skills for both students and faculty.

    Additionally, he also advocated for including latest developments in technology, Artificial Intelligence, tele-medicine, digital healthcare in the revised curriculum of medical education. In his concluding remarks, he urged “for creating a curriculum that is more vibrant, meaningful and fit to current challenges” and “optimum utilization of existing infrastructure and medical faculty. He also emphasised the need to add soft skills to increase the empathy, ethics and communication skills of the medical students.”

    Shri Nadda highlighted the developments made in medical infrastructure for ensuring cancer care in the country like the establishment ofNational Cancer Institute (NCI) of AIIMS, Jhajjar, upgradation of Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), Kolkata, establishment of Oncology departments in all 22 AIIMS. Citing a recent LANCET study, he underlined that “timely cancer treatment initiation has improved significantly because of the Ayushman Bharat Jan Aarogya Yojna. Patients enrolled under AB-PMJAY saw 90% rise in access to cancer treatment within 30 days.”

    In his concluding remarks, the Union Health Minister stated that “the Government will continue its efforts through the holistic approach to ensure healthcare for allwhile working in the direction of strengthening the base of the medical educationpyramid through ensuring the training and recruitment of nursing, paramedics and assistive staff.”

    In his address during the inaugural session of the Webinar, Dr. V. K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, focused on strengthening key aspects of the health sector. Highlighting significant advancements in India’s healthcare and medical education sectors, he stated that “the number of medical colleges in India has surged by an impressive 102% over the past decade, increasing from 387 to 780, resulting in a greater number of government medical colleges than private institutions, thereby enhancing affordability for aspiring medical students”. Dr. Paul emphasized the remarkable increase in both undergraduate and postgraduate medical seats, with undergraduate seats.He also discussed the key initiatives that include a special scheme aimed at upgrading district and referral hospitals into medical colleges; the introduction of the District Residence Program links public healthcare with medical education, allowing postgraduate residents to gain real-life experience in district hospitals.

    Addressing the rising burden of cancer, Dr. Paul underscored the urgent need for early detection, with a nationwide screening initiative reaching 26 crore people for oral cancer, 18crorefor breast cancer, and 9 crore for cervical cancer.He outlined the strategic roadmap for rolling out DCCCs nationwide, which includes the target of establishing one Day Care Cancer Centre in every district.Hereiterated the government’s commitment towards establishing cancer institutes and tertiary cancer care systems while ensuring financial coverage for cancer care through Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) that offers multiple care packages, while affordable medications through Jan AushadhiKendras. He concluded his remarks with a vision for a healthcare system that meets the standards of developed nations by 2047, describing the budget announcements as “aspirational and game-changing.”

    Ms Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, underscored the importance of collaboration between the central and state governments. She pointed out that the immediate priority is to identify high-burden districts for the first phase of implementation. She noted that India sees approximately 50% of cancer patients seeking treatment in tertiary hospitals, often leading to overcrowding and delays. The government aims to significantly reduce this burden by enabling district-level chemotherapy and immunotherapy services. She also emphasised the need for timely infrastructure development and the establishment of strong referral pathways linking DCCCs to State Cancer Institutes and tertiary hospitals.

     

    The Secretary also addressed the importance of workforce capacity-building. While oncologists are essential for specialised care, training general physicians, nurses, and pharmacists to manage chemotherapy administration and supportive care at DCCCs will be a game-changer. She called for increased partnerships with medical colleges, cancer research institutes, and nursing training centres to create a steady pipeline of skilled healthcare workers for these centres.

    A breakout session on strengthening cancer care in the country, was also organized during the webinar, focusing on expanding Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs). The session highlighted the government’s commitment to making cancer treatment more accessible and decentralised, in line with the Union Budget 2025-26 announcement of establishing 200 new DCCCs in district hospitals.Several experts shared insights on different aspects of the initiative that included: the need for structured training programs to equip medical professionals with the skills required to deliver quality treatment at DCCCs; importance of standardising chemotherapy protocols across all centres to maintain uniformity in treatment; challenges of drug procurement and the need for efficient supply chain management, particularly for life-saving oncology drugs that are often expensive and require specialised handling. Tamil Nadu and Odisha officials presented their successful models of decentralised cancer care, offering practical solutions for other states. These models demonstrated how strategic investments in district-level cancer care have resulted in earlier diagnosis, better treatment outcomes, and reduced patient migration to metropolitan hospitals.

    The session concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders. State governments were urged to fast-track the establishment of DCCCs by allocating necessary resources and ensuring trained personnel are available. Healthcare institutions were encouraged to support research, training, and service delivery. The private sector was invited to contribute through funding and infrastructure support. At the same time, civil society organisations were encouraged to promote awareness, early detection, and patient support programs.

    The Post-Budget Webinar on Budget Announcement also included a breakout session on“Expansion of Medical Education”. The panelists provided their insights and suggestions for the implementation of this ambitious initiative of expanding medical education in the countrywhich aligns with the broader objective of enhancing the accessibility, quality and sustainability of medical education in the country.

    The webinar was attended by officers from Ministry of Health & Family Welfare along withrepresentatives from NMC, ICMR, State Health Ministries, renowned doctors, medical professionals and faculty from renowned medical institutions.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –