NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rehab services complex opens

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today officiated at the opening ceremony of the Siu Lam Integrated Rehabilitation Services Complex, the largest of its kind in the city showcasing government support and commitment to disabled people and their carers.

    Addressing the ceremony, Mr Chan commended the design of the services complex which makes full use of its spatial advantages as well as incorporates smart technology and rehabilitation equipment to create a safe and comfortable living environment for the service users.

    He was also pleased to learn that the services complex smoothly implements a medical-social collaboration model, where close communication and flexible arrangements enable quality medical services for the residents with fewer hospital visits.

    Mr Chan noted that the Social Welfare Department’s (SWD) estimated recurrent expenditure on rehabilitation and medical social services has reached $12.6 billion in 2025-26, a 35% increase in comparison with that of five years ago, demonstrating the Government’s commitment in supporting people with disabilities.

    The Chief Secretary said the Government will continue to strive for service enhancements, including providing additional places for rehabilitation services so that the total number of these places will reach around 39,900 by 2028-29 to meet the keen demand.

    Accompanied by Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun and other officials, Mr Chan presided at the services complex’s unveiling ceremony. The guests also toured the residential care and day training facilities prior to the ceremony.

    Located at 12 and 20 Hong Fai Road, Siu Lam, Tuen Mun, the services complex was designed and constructed by consultants and contractors commissioned by the SWD, and started operation in phases starting December 2023.

    It is operated by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, SAHK and the New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, providing a total of 1,150 residential care places and 560 day training places for mentally handicapped people, physically handicapped people as well as people in mental recovery.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: 20th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK FAIR

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    MEDIA ADVISORY: 20th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK FAIR

    Posted on Feb 27, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    NADINE Y. ANDO

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

    20th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK FAIR

    MEDIA ADVISORY

    What: National Consumer Protection Week Fair

    When: Thursday, March 7, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

    Where: Fourth Floor of the Hawai‘i State Capitol

    Details: National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) will take place March 3 – 9, 2024 and serves as a significant annual event dedicated to raising awareness about consumer rights and educating the public on avoiding frauds and scams. NCPW is a time when government agencies, consumer protection groups and organizations work together to share information on these important issues. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) is sponsoring the 20th Annual NCPW Fair in Hawai‘i.

    Attendees will have the chance to connect with more than two dozen vendors offering practical solutions and resources for protecting consumer rights. This fair is a unique opportunity for citizens to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions, safeguard their finances and protect their families online. By attending, individuals contribute to the collective effort toward building a more informed and resilient community. For more details on what to expect and footage from previous years, please watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyHhCnpYHb0.

    Entry to the state Capitol: The state Capitol has implemented increased security measures. All visitors entering the Capitol are required to go through metal detection screening from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. All visitors may enter the Capitol through three entry points: Two at street level (elevator Cores 1 and 3) which are located at the Diamond Head makai and ʻEwa mauka corners of the Capitol Rotunda, and through the main basement entrance. Please arrive early to allow extra time to go through the security checkpoints.

    # # #


     Media Contact:

    Communications Office
    Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

    Phone: 808-586-2760
    Email: [email protected]

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom partners with 21 Brazilian state governors to protect the environment, cut harmful pollution

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 27, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – California and a consortium of 21 Brazilian states are partnering together to combat pollution and foster sustainable economic growth. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom and Governor Renato Casagrande of the Brazilian state of Espírito Santo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today that establishes a four-year partnership between California and the Brazilian consortium of states leading on environmental protections, Consórcio Brasil Verde (CBV).

    Together with these 21 Brazilian states, California is committed to advancing a bold, collaborative action plan that tackles pollution, protects public health and safety, and creates good-paying jobs.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    This collaboration encompasses clean air, transportation and energy; adaptation; forest management; and more. The full text of the MOU is available here. R20 Regions of Climate Action – an organization founded by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to support subnational climate work – played a key role in supporting this MOU.

    “This is a historic opportunity to join efforts and share knowledge between Brazilian states and California, which is a reference in combating climate change,” said Governor Renato Casagrande. “The partnership not only reaffirms our commitment to sustainability but also highlights the importance of active participation from everyone in building solutions that benefit our planet.”

    How we got here: California met its 2020 climate target six years ahead of schedule thanks to world-leading climate policies and partnerships across the U.S. and around the world, created to share best practices and support cooperation on climate work.

    • Last year, Governor Newsom welcomed a new international partnership with South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province to collaborate on climate and economic efforts. Also last year, Governor Newsom welcomed delegations from Sweden and Norway and signed renewed climate partnerships with the two governments.
    • In 2023, Governor Newsom led a California delegation to China, where California signed five MOUs – with China’s National Development and Reform Commission, the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu, and the municipalities of Beijing, and Shanghai. The trip also resulted in a first-of-its-kind declaration by China and California to cooperate on climate action like aggressively cutting greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning away from fossil fuels, and developing clean energy.
    • Also in 2023, California signed a MOU with the Chinese province of Hainan, as well as with Australia.
    • In 2022, California signed Memorandums of Cooperation with Canada, New Zealand and Japan, as well as Memorandums of Understanding with China and the Netherlands, to tackle the climate crisis. The Governor also joined with Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia to recommit the region to climate action.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Feb 26, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced multiple clemency actions. He granted pardons in three cases. He also sent multiple clemency cases to the Board of Parole Hearings, initiating the process for granting clemency in fifteen cases. He also sent two…

    Feb 26, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today released a new economic vision for California’s future with a bold plan, realized locally. The unveiling comes alongside the announcement of more than $245 million in investments to help support workers statewide,…

    Feb 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today issued a statement in response to the Trump administration’s announcement that it had released more than $315 million of obligated money to create new water storage at the future Sites Reservoir and at the existing San…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Failure to consult Indigenous Peoples on future pandemics will further harm children’s education

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The failure of governments around the world to consult Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 school closures and other emergency pandemic responses violated their rights, as children continue to feel the effects five years after the first global lockdown, Amnesty International said in a new report today.

    Indigenous leaders interviewed by Amnesty International for its report What If Indigenous Consent Is Not Respected?, testified to sharp and sustained increases in post-pandemic absenteeism and school dropout rates, of more than 80 per cent in some cases, among Indigenous children in more than 10 countries. Indigenous leaders and activists also voiced concerns that the often discriminatory, desultory or non-existent response by authorities to the educational needs of Indigenous children during the pandemic worsened long-standing inequities faced by Indigenous communities – with Indigenous girls and children with disabilities particularly disadvantaged. Going forward, the organization is calling for Indigenous Peoples to be consulted during future pandemics.  

    The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic.

    Chris Chapman, Amnesty’s researcher on Indigenous rights

    “The Indigenous leaders and activists we spoke to felt completely ignored by governments during the pandemic, which had an enduring and damaging impact on their rights and prospects,” said Chris Chapman, Amnesty International’s Researcher on Indigenous Rights.

    “They said that remote learning solutions were often unavailable to Indigenous children. Those in rural areas, where Indigenous communities often lacked devices, internet connections, electricity and the technological knowledge or capacity to participate in virtual classes or remote learning, were worst affected.”

    When lower-tech solutions such as printed materials were distributed to other groups, Indigenous communities in several different countries said they were passed over, ignored, or asked to pay for them.

    Indigenous campaigner Sylvia Kokunda said: “For the most part these materials were distributed by the local government, since it can be easier for the village chairperson to identify the people in this community. However, local officials would not give the materials to these Batwa people, they would give only to their people.”

    Radio or television-based educational broadcasting during the pandemic was often unavailable in Indigenous languages. An Ogiek activist said that although Sogoot FM 97.1, an Ogiek language radio station, was used to reach the community to inform them about Covid-19 and its impacts, it was not used for school coursework.  

    The report is based on data and more than 80 interviews or collected responses that Amnesty International gathered to explore how Indigenous students around the world were impacted by pandemic-related school closures, including in Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Kenya, Mexico, Nepal, Russia, Taiwan and Uganda. There are 476 million Indigenous people worldwide in more than 90 countries, belonging to 5,000 different Indigenous groups and speaking more than 4,000 languages.

    Technology, discrimination and dropout rates

    Where Indigenous families had limited access to technology for remote learning during the pandemic, boys were often prioritized.

    According to Indigenous women activists from Nepal,“If some families have a mobile, then only one or two will use it. And if there are more children in the house, one has to sacrifice their education. When it comes to the sacrifice, the girls are sacrificed more.”

    Even if Indigenous students had devices capable of being used for remote learning, their families were sometimes unable to afford sufficient data. In addition, remote teaching was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    Children with learning difficulties or disabilities which required specialist teaching, for instance through use of sign language or braille, were often excluded, including among Indigenous communities.

    Interviewees in many states said there was often little or no government monitoring, or consideration of the effectiveness of alternative learning initiatives for Indigenous communities. Information on how to access education when schools closed – and they stayed shut for more than 18 months in some countries – was rarely provided in Indigenous languages.

    “Boys who had begun working as motorcycle taxi drivers to earn money for their families also dropped out.

    Indigenous activist from Kenya

    Students with little or no access to education during the pandemic often worked instead, and never returned to schools when they reopened. Those who did return when schools reopened, often found that they had fallen behind their classmates. If they were unwilling to retake a year, or could not be supported financially, they too dropped out.

    In Kenya, the majority of dropouts of Ogiek students were girls, especially girls who got pregnant during Covid-19 or were subjected to early marriage. However, it affected boys too. An Indigenous activist from Kenya said: “Boys between the ages of 12 and 18 who had begun working in jobs such as motorcycle taxi drivers or farm workers to earn money for themselves and their families also dropped out.”

    Some schools across many states never reopened, further reducing access to education for Indigenous children, Indigenous activists reported.

    Asked to reply to Amnesty’s findings, the Mexican government stated that it responded to the “unprecedented challenge of Covid-19″ by working with Indigenous schools and teachers to roll out a set of measures including distributing materials in five Indigenous languages, sometimes in printed formats where access to internet or devices was restricted, developing new digital educational materials, and capacity-building for schools and parents to use digital platforms.

    Recommendations

    “Significantly more resources are now required to safeguard, restore and improve the educational opportunities and rights of Indigenous communities,” Chris Chapman said.

    “States must work with Indigenous communities to immediately restore and enhance the right to education for all Indigenous children including a focus on re-enrolling Indigenous girls, and Indigenous students with disabilities.”  

    Alongside the report, Amnesty International has shared a guide for researchers who wish to investigate the extent to which the human right to participate effectively in decision-making has been violated, especially when it comes to Indigenous communities.  

    “Governments must consult with Indigenous Peoples on Covid-19 response measures and other pandemic and emergency response measures, otherwise they risk violating their right to consultation, and their right to give or withhold their consent to decisions affecting them. Our study highlights the risks of failing to take into account the realities, cultures and rights of Indigenous Peoples,” said Chris Chapman.

    “While our report sets out the devastating impact of this lack of inclusion, it’s hoped that Amnesty’s guide will ensure Indigenous people are included in discussions that affect them in the future. Every child has the right to free, high-quality primary education. States must therefore ensure that no child is left behind.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: An interview with Chris Chapman

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Chris Chapman is Amnesty International’s Advisor on Indigenous Peoples’ Rights. Working with communities around the world, he has seen how states continue to violate the rights of Indigenous Peoples, failing to involve them in decisions that affect them, most recently during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Inspired by the incredible people he’s met and interviewed, and his years working in human rights, Chris has now penned a research guide on how to assess whether people have been effectively involved in decisions that affect them and been able to influence them.

    Can you tell me about your role at Amnesty and what it involves?

    I am a researcher and advisor for Indigenous Peoples’ rights. I’m currently focusing on conservation and protected areas and how they impact Indigenous Peoples. Quite often, protected areas are established on lands claimed by Indigenous Peoples. For example, on the borders of Paraguay and Brazil, an Indigenous People has been evicted to make way for a hydroelectric dam. The company has created protected nature reserves around the new borders of the river, yet the displaced Indigenous People have no right to go into those nature reserves, due to lack of consultation by governments.

    I also support people at Amnesty who are doing research on the situations of Indigenous Peoples and provide advice.

    Is there a piece of research that has had a lasting impact on you?

    I was inspired by a joint project between Amnesty’s human rights education team and our Philippines office. They worked with communities all over the Philippines, shared lots of resources on running human rights campaigns, and now they apply these to the most important and pressing issues in their communities. It’s a great example of how Amnesty can share skills and experience and empowers others.

    Another inspiring experience was working with Elias Kimaiyo, an activist and leader for the Sengwer Indigenous People in Kenya. We worked together on a report that came out in 2018. Elias never had the opportunities many of us have had but it’s not held him back. He tells the truth about what is happening to the Sengwer whether it’s to his local MP, in Nairobi, or in Geneva or Brussels. He’s also an amazing photographer and video maker. While I was writing up the research, I learnt he had been out in the field filming the Kenya Forest Service who were evicting his people from their forest. He was shot at by one of the rangers and it permanently damaged his arm. But he continues the work.

    When governments take decisions that might impact on people’s human rights, there is an obligation to consult those people and involve them meaningfully in decision-making.

    Chris Chapman

    What’s the aim of Amnesty’s new research guidelines, Public participation in decision-making ?

    Amnesty’s new guide is for researchers on how to research processes of public participation in decision-making. When governments take decisions or implement projects that might impact on people’s human rights, there is usually an obligation to consult those people and involve them meaningfully in decision-making.

    This guide provides guidance to researchers who want to research such processes to make sure the government has fully complied with its obligations. The researchers could be from NGOs like Amnesty, or academics, or people from the affected communities themselves. It’s about seeing if things are being done as they should – whether that involves consulting the public on projects such as clearing informal settlement housing, building a dam, or passing a new law which will affect a particular group of people.

    The research guide is incredibly engaging – it’s beautifully presented and packed with photographs, so hopefully it’s appealing and useful to those who want to use it. Within it, there’s a series of practical tools for researchers, such as example lists of questions which you need to ask in a particular situation. For example, if a mine or a dam is being built, there is a checklist for what information communities should receive. I really hope researchers will pick it up and use it.

    Why is the guide needed?

    When the public aren’t consulted by the government on issues that affect them, it can affect their human rights negatively. In some cases, governments just tell people what they’re going to do without listening to them. In addition, Indigenous Peoples have the right to free, prior and informed consent, which means that they should be not only consulted, but that the proposal should not go ahead against their will.

    During the pandemic, governments were scrambling to take emergency action very quickly – they closed schools and learning went online. Many Indigenous communities who live in rural areas didn’t have sufficient access to the Internet. In some cases, there weren’t enough devices for a remote connection for schooling and materials weren’t provided in specific languages.  

    Aymara indigenous women walk their children to the Ladislao Cabrera school during their first week of face to face classes, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The children of the Machacamarca highlands town in Bolivia started face to face classes, due to the lack of means to access virtual education.

    Governments took steps to close down schools without taking into account the issues Indigenous peoples would face. They weren’t ready for these challenges and failed to adapt their policies, which led to a detrimental impact on children’s education. Their schooling effectively ended, causing a long-lasting impact.

    How does it feel to hear these stories?

    It’s really sad. Sometimes we talk about how human rights researchers get a bit blasé because they hear so many accounts and you’re exposed to human rights violations every day. But when you hear first-hand accounts, it’s obviously going to affect you and if it doesn’t, maybe it’s time to reach out for support, as it could be a sign that you’ve reached burn out.

    How could Indigenous Peoples be included in their government responses to emergencies?

    Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines have put an emergency response protocol in place, covering what the government should do when there’s an emergency. Initially designed for floods and hurricanes, it could easily be adapted for pandemics.

    The plan details what the government should do immediately after a disaster, as well as numerous initiatives that can be done immediately or staggered over time. It’s a great idea and if Indigenous Peoples have such a protocol, governments should comply with them, it would provide a starting point for knowing how to consult on pandemic responses.

    Finally, how did you get into this area of work?

    I was always interested in human rights. I was a member of a local Amnesty group in my twenties and passionate about dealing with injustices in the world. I travelled around and worked in Guatemala just as the peace accords had been signed, ending decades of civil conflict. There were people who had gone into exile and who wanted to return, or they had gone into hiding in remote places in Guatemala. They wanted to return to normal life, but they wanted international observers in their communities because they still didn’t trust the army. So I worked in a rainforest community for five months, teaching maths, and getting involved in the community’s activities – it was an incredible experience where people told me about what happened during the civil war. It was powerful and inspired me to work within the human rights field.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 28 February 2025 Donors making a difference: community engagement to promote, provide and protect the health and well-being of all

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO defines community engagement as “a process of developing relationships that enable stakeholders to work together to address health-related issues and promote well-being to achieve positive health impact and outcomes”.

    WHO’s partners and donors support the Organization to work in this area as there are undeniable benefits to engaging communities in promoting health and well-being. At its core, community engagement enables changes in behaviour, environments, policies, programmes and practices within communities.

    Below are some country stories that demonstrate the breadth of community engagement work that WHO conducts, resulting in more positive health outcomes for the people in these communities than before.

    Uganda trains district health workers on community-based approach to Ebola

    Uganda trains Community Health workers from Kole, Mukono and Wakiso districts on community-based approach to Ebola. Photo by: WHO/Sadat Kamugisha 

    Uganda’s Ministry of Health conducted a training on Ebola disease detection and management for Community Health Workers representatives from Kole, Wakiso, and Mukono districts. Participants focused on multi-sectoral action to safeguard communities from emerging zoonotic diseases with pandemic potential such as Ebola.

    Communities play an integral role in raising awareness, supporting case identification, tracing contacts, and maintaining essential health services. The emphasis on collaboration with local leaders, volunteers, and health workers is vital for effective responses to public health emergencies. Building on lessons learned from past health crises, Uganda has already made substantial advancements in emergency preparedness.

    The three-day event was supported by WHO, and the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team (UK-PHRST), which is a UK aid project funded by the Department of Health and Social care. The community protection approach is a central component of WHO’s new Health emergency prevention, preparedness, response, and resilience framework.

    Visit the WHO/Uganda web page to read the full story.

    Community engagement for access to health services in Lao PDR

    CONNECT team members discuss community health priorities in Khammouane Province, Lao PDR. Photo by: WHO/Enric Catala

    Developed by the Lao Ministry of Health and Ministry of Home Affairs in response to COVID-19 with the support of WHO and partners, the CONNECT initiative enhances local governance and community engagement for equitable access to public services, particularly health.

    Supported by USAID, the Australian Government and Luxembourg, as of July 2024, CONNECT reached over 230 villages across 10 provinces (including Vientiane Capital) and support already in-place for expansion to all provinces.

    An external evaluation of implementation in 12 villages found an increase in essential service uptake for maternal health and improved attitudes towards using primary care; increased trust in health providers; increased sense of ownership of health at community level; and increased vaccination uptake and confidence, especially among ethnic groups and previously unreached communities.

    Visit the WHO/WPRO web page to read the full story.

    Côte d’Ivoire community radios boost public awareness on mpox outbreak

    Community radios, pillar of the fight against mpox. Photo by: WHO/Toiherou De Marfere Sidibe

    A network of community radio stations, known as Radio Santé, comprises 350 stations in West African, with over half based in Côte d’Ivoire. Launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic with major support from WHO, Radio Santé has become a preferred channel for disseminating reliable, verified health information. It brings together nearly 1000 journalists and communications specialists.

    Radio Santé is an interactive and accessible tool for mobilizing communities around health issues, throughout Côte d’Ivoire and across borders. Health authorities use Radio Santé to counter rumours and misinformation, and to strengthen community engagement, which is crucial to curbing the spread of diseases such as mpox.

    After WHO declared mpox as a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024, Radio Santé devoted its health talk show to mpox. 185 Ivorian community radio stations have since broadcasted messages on mpox. Over 50 programmes have been produced and broadcast in eight countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo.

    Visit the WHO/Côte d’Ivoire web page to read the full story.

    Bolivia strengthens social participation in health for indigenous population

    Indigenous organizations are clear about their requests. They want free and equitable access to health care, an improved indigenous health network, incorporation of traditional medicine, and the consideration of the indigenous population’s culture, customs, and practices. Photo by: WHO/PAHO

    The Ministry of Health and Sports of Bolivia is engaging indigenous populations in community participation processes, creating space for them to discuss health topics, share concerns, and contribute to a health improvement plan.

    The meaningful inclusion and engagement of indigenous populations in health policy planning, taking into account the social determinants of health, is critical to ensure context-specific interventions, uptake of guidance and services, and positive health outcomes for all.

    PAHO/WHO, through the Universal Health Coverage Partnership, has supported the Ministry of Health and Sports of Bolivia in this endeavour since 2021. The UHC Partnership operates in over 125 countries, representing over 3 billion people. It is supported and funded by Belgium, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and WHO

    Visit the PAHO/AMRO web page to read the full story.

    Weaving hope in Honduras: the community wisdom that saves lives

    Maternal health in Honduras Hermelinda shares her experience. Photo by: WHO/Honduras

    In Honduras, high rates of maternal and neonatal mortality are often the result of multiple factors, including socioeconomic barriers, lack of access to adequate healthcare services, gaps in education and awareness about maternal and child health, and cultural differences.

    Hermelinda Hernández, who is familiar with the local practices and beliefs of her community and also recognizes the value of professional medical interventions, participated in the “Knowledge Dialogues Methodology” workshop organized by the Honduran Ministry of Health with the support of PAHO/WHO and funded by Global Affairs Canada.

    The workshop aimed to promote mutual understanding between midwives and healthcare providers to reach agreements that improve the health of women, and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability within the community.

    Visit the PAHO/AMRO web page to read the full story.

    Grassroots heroes in Cambodia

    Mrs Say Sa with her Baby in Cambodia’s Principal of Health Centre Kok Chuk. Photo by: Aforative media

    In Cambodia, village chiefs stepped up to create a healthier future for their communities. In villages across 25 provinces, 2000 village chiefs and nearly 5400 village health support groups received trainings, organised by the Ministry of Heath with support from WHO and the EU.

    This equipped the chiefs with knowledge and skills necessary to control transmission of COVID-19, influenza, and other respiratory diseases, and collaborate with authorities more closely on health issues facing their communities.

    The chiefs then shared their newfound knowledge during community dialogues, which then transformed how community members adopted healthier practices. Empowered with accurate information, communities embraced protective measures during times of high COVID-19 transmission.

    Visit the WHO/WPRO web page to read the full story, and more on EU’s support to WHO in ASEAN region.

    Bolstering public awareness to help curb mpox spread in Uganda

    Dr Kenneth Kabali, WHO Field Coordinator for Busoga Sub-region sensitizes the community on mpox in Mayuge district, Eastern Uganda. Photo by: WHO/Abdu Mutwalibu Seguya

    Uganda witnessed an upsurge in mpox cases, with laboratory-confirmed cases increasing from 24 as of 21 September to 413 as of 7 November 2024. Health authorities, with support from WHO and partners, worked closely with communities to raise awareness about the dangers of the disease and how to stay safe, and address misinformation and stigma.

    The risk communication and community engagement team reached more than 100 fishmongers, fisherfolk, boda boda (motorbike taxi) riders, 8000 school children and 30 sex workers. In addition, 500 teachers in the district have been oriented on mpox.

    WHO is also using mass media to expand the reach of mpox response communication. With funding from USAID, WHO has contracted 10 regional radio stations and 2 national TV stations to raise awareness and promote preventative behaviour.

    Visit the WHO/AFRO web page to read the full story.

    Combating measles: a comprehensive community-centred approach in Ethiopia

    Combating measles, a comprehensive community-centred approach in Ethiopia. Photo by: WHO/Hassen Ali

    In the districts of Sidama, Central, and South Ethiopia, access to healthcare is often challenging, exacerbated by various health emergencies. A community-led initiative made remarkable progress in combating measles, malaria, and malnutrition through collaborative efforts between local health facilities, community health workers, and government agencies.

    The initiative received significant financial support from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) bolstering community-based intervention efforts.

    By leveraging collaboration between healthcare facilities, community health workers, and local communities, this initiative represents a beacon of hope in improving healthcare access and outcomes in regions of Ethiopia.

    Visit the WHO/Ethiopia web page to read the full story.

    WHO races to contain malaria resurgence in southeastern Iran

    Malaria resurgence in Iran. Photo by: WHO/Iran

    A race against time is underway in southeastern Iran, where the resurgence of malaria threatens to undo years of progress. The dramatic rise in cases has been attributed to the devastating floods in neighbouring Pakistan in September 2022 which led to an expansion of malaria breeding sites.

    WHO, with crucial support from the Government of Japan, is on the ground in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, battling this public health emergency and working to protect vulnerable communities. Japan’s generous contribution provided 4902 mosquito dome tents offering families protection from infected mosquitos, 50 000 malaria rapid diagnostic tests enabling health care workers to quickly identify and treat infected individuals, and 1655 kg of insecticides, deployed to contain mosquito populations at their source. The combined resources are estimated to benefit 77 400 people in the province.

    In December 2024, a WHO mission observed a proactive approach to malaria control demonstrated by local health workers as they conducted house-to-house screenings, distributed mosquito nets and educated communities on how to use them.

    Visit the WHO/Iran web page to read the full story.

    Mali: screening for malnutrition in affected children to avoid complications

    Screening for malnutrition in affected children to avoid complications, Mali. Photo by: WHO/Razzack Saizonou

    Malnutrition among children is one of the main health problems that the affected populations of Ségou had to face after severe floods hit Mali between July and October 2024. Having lost everything including their food reserves and their means of subsistence, people found themselves in a very precarious situation.

    Among the more than 370,000 people affected by these floods, children, who represent 45% of the affected population, are particularly vulnerable. To enable access to health care, WHO, with thanks to the Central Emergency Response Fund, supported the deployment of mobile clinics on relocation sites.

    In the Ségou region, three sites were set up and equipped with medical tents. Medical staff go there five times a month. Between July and October 2024, nearly 700 children suffering from malnutrition were identified in the three health districts of the Ségou region.

    Visit the WHO/Mali web page to read the full story in French.

    Effective community engagement saving lives in Tanzania during cholera outbreak

    Abdul Zachari, a young man is washing his hands. Photo by: WHO/Clemence Eliah

    The recurrence of Cholera outbreaks has been a threat to many lives in the United Republic of Tanzania for decades now. In mid-2024, situation reports from the Ministry of Health indicated that, the outbreak have been reported in 19 regions of Tanzania Mainland. Thanks to flexible funding available for responding to outbreaks such as this, WHO has been able to support the Government’s efforts to control cholera outbreaks. Risk Communications and Community Engagement (RCCE) Experts worked on the ground delivering an intensive community sensitization in over 92 households and 32 villages . The joint and community-based action plan against Cholera outbreak was built jointly, this way enhancing 54 community members and local authorities from the affected wards and districts. The community engagement strategies adopted generate local solutions tailored to control and prevent further transmissions in these areas. In addition, WHO applied behavioral science approaches to guide tailored interventions to community protection and resilience – and as a result, enhancing many lives in Tanzania.

    Visit the WHO/Tanzania web page to read the full story.

    * * * *

    Read more about the WHO’s community engagement work.

    The donors and partners acknowledged in this story are (in alphabetical order) Australia, Belgium, Canada, the European Union (ECHO), France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund, and the USA Agency for International Development.

    WHO’s work is made possible through all contributions of our Member States and partners. WHO thanks all donor countries, governments, organizations and individuals who are contributing to the Organization’s work, with special appreciation for those who provide fully flexible contributions to maintain a strong, independent WHO.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/SOUTH KOREA – Fertility rate reverses trend: Church community works to restore hope

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Foto di sq lim su Unsplash

    Seoul (Agenzia Fides) – The number of newborns and the fertility rate in South Korea are bucking the trend and rising for the first time in nine years of steady decline. According to the 2024 demographic trends, data released by the Korea Institute of Statistics, the number of births last year was 238,300, 8,300 more than the previous year, representing the first increase in the number of births since 2015. The fertility rate, i.e. the number of children a woman has in her lifetime, meanwhile rose to 0.75, an increase of 0.03 compared to the previous year. However, according to the report, Korea’s fertility rate is still well below the average of 1.51 for member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). According to the Institute of Statistics, there are three reasons for the increase in the number of births: an increase in the population in the fertile age group, an increase in marriages that have been delayed by the pandemic, and also the beginning of a “cultural” shift in young people’s values regarding marriage. Joo Hyung-hwan, vice chairman of the government’s Low Birth Rate and Aging Society Committee, which was set up specifically to deal with these phenomena, said, “This year, the number of newborns will increase by 10,000 compared to last year, to about 250,000, and the total fertility rate will be about 0.79,” referring to the number of pregnancy and childbirth registrations received at workplaces. “The positive changes are obvious,” he said, emphasizing “that this is the result of the joint efforts of not only the government, but also companies and local authorities.” To counter the low birth rate, the government plans to expand parental leave for men, increase tax support for companies that excel in balancing work and family life, and require companies to raise awareness among their employees about work-life balance.In 2024, President Yoon Suk Yeol, currently under impeachment, proposed a new ministry to address the “national demographic crisis,” taking a more comprehensive approach that would not only focus on financial support and childcare, but also – as a broad national debate has shown – address the culture so that a balance between work and family can be found. To this end, companies would be encouraged to encourage their employees to become parents. In June 2024, the committee announced a package of “measures to reverse the trend of low birth rates.” A change in social practices and the work system could prove crucial in a country where the birth rate has fallen to the lowest in the world over the past decade.Sociologists have noted that Korean women have prioritized career advancement over marriage or parenthood, and another contributing factor has been the rising cost of housing and living and the cost of raising a child. But now, economists say, the demographic crisis has become the biggest risk to the growth of Asia’s fourth-largest economy and its social security system, as the population of 51 million could halve by the end of the century if the trend is not reversed.Father Oh Seok-jun, head of the Seoul Archdiocese Committee for Life, urged people not to view the low birth rate as “just a matter of numbers,” nor as a phenomenon that can be tackled with reproductive technologies, as some claim. It is necessary to “look at the issue from a spiritual and hopeful point of view”: “A child is a gift of grace granted by the Lord through the perfect union of love between a man and a woman. This is why the Catholic Church, in its pastoral care with young people and couples, invites them to look to the future with hope.” This is an approach that also characterizes the Holy Year under the motto “Pilgrims of Hope.” In this context, the Yeokchon-dong parish of the Archdiocese of Seoul held a “Blessing Ceremony for Families with Three or More Children” on February 23 to sensitize couples to the protection of life and to overcome the serious crisis of the low birth rate in Korea. Yuliana Kim Min-jeong, head of the family department in the parish, said: “It was good for the faithful to see how couples with three children live a life of faith and turn to the Lord in these rough times. We hope that their testimony will have a positive influence and give encouragement and hope to young couples.” At the level of mentality and social trends, a culture that tends towards individualism and questions the couple relationship must also be overcome. According to the census conducted by the Korea Statistics Institute, the percentage of single-person households in Korea exceeded 35 percent in 2023. In 2000, there were 2.2 million single-person households in the country, in 2015 there were over 5 million, and in 2023 there were 7.8 million. The Catholic Church, especially in the context of pastoral care for young adults, plays an active role in supporting those who, after entering the world of work, choose to live alone and create a “single” household: the aim is to propose to them forms of positive socialization that allow them to open up to others and develop interpersonal relationships, looking at their lives from the perspective of self-giving and not only from the perspective of self-interest. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 28/2/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs raids suspected illicit cigarette storage centre in Kwai Chung industrial building (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs raids suspected illicit cigarette storage centre in Kwai Chung industrial building (with photo)
    Hong Kong Customs raids suspected illicit cigarette storage centre in Kwai Chung industrial building (with photo)
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         Hong Kong Customs yesterday (February 27) raided a suspected illicit cigarette storage centre in Kwai Chung and seized about 300 000 suspected illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of about $1.4 million and a duty potential of about $1 million.      During an anti-illicit cigarette operation conducted in Kwai Chung yesterday afternoon, Customs officers intercepted a suspicious local woman outside an industrial building unit on Castle Peak Road. About 37 000 suspected illicit cigarettes were seized from her trolley, and the woman, aged 71 and claiming to be unemployed, was immediately arrested. Later, Customs officers escorted the woman to the industrial building unit for a search and further seized about 270 000 suspected illicit cigarettes.     Customs will continue to trace the source of the illicit cigarettes, and the likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.     The arrested woman has been charged with “dealing with goods to which the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance applies” and will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on March 21.     Customs will also continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis for interception at the source, as well as through its multipronged enforcement strategy targeting storage, distribution and peddling, to spare no effort in combating illicit cigarette activities.     Customs stresses that it is an offence to buy or sell illicit cigarettes. Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.     ???     Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/en).

     
    Ends/Friday, February 28, 2025Issued at HKT 14:45

    NNNN

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Design is key to India’s legacy and future development: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Design is key to India’s legacy and future development: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal

    National Institute of Design celebrates 44th Convocation Ceremony, 430 students awarded degrees

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 11:52AM by PIB Delhi

    Design is not only about aesthetics, it is an innovation that has its impact on India’s legacy and will play a role in the country’s development. This was stated by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal during his address at the 44th Convocation Ceremony of National Institute of Design (NID) on Thursday, February 27, 2025. He further noted that the fresh graduates will act as a bridge between the legacy and the future of this country.

    President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Shri Acharya Devvrat, Governor of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Minister of State Commerce and Industries Shri Jitin Prasada and Governing Council Members also graced the event. 

    Highlighting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s call for ‘Make in India’ and ‘Design in India’ for the world, Minister Goyal noted that the fresh graduates will make it a reality. He stressed that these graduates as problem solvers, innovators and designers will be working for the world. “You will be the architect of the world, the world is waiting for you”, he said. 

    Emphasising on the growing importance of design across sectors from space to semiconductors, Shri Goyal pointed out that the first stage of the Chandrayaan space mission was the satellite’s design that led to its success. He asserted that India’s design capabilities will be on display in audio-visual technologies to gaming, sustainability, toys and more.   

    Possibilities in design are endless. We have to create new ideas, innovation on a large scale catering to 140 crore people of the country. Inclusive growth and development is our country’s will and strength. Create, disrupt and leave a mark in the world with your capabilities, the  Minister said. 

    The 44th Convocation Ceremony saw 430 students from various disciplines being awarded degrees from the National Institute of Design.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

    (Release ID: 2106818) Visitor Counter : 103

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM greets everyone on occasion of National Science Day

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 10:00AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi greeted everyone today on the occasion of National Science Day. He wrote in a post on X:

    “Greetings on National Science Day to those passionate about science, particularly our young innovators. Let’s keep popularising science and innovation and leveraging science to build a Viksit Bharat. 

    During this month’s #MannKiBaat, had talked about ‘One Day as a Scientist’…where the youth take part in some or the other scientific activity.”

    ****

    MJPS/SR/SKS

    (Release ID: 2106799) Visitor Counter : 47

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKMA announces participating banks for RMB Trade Financing Liquidity Facility

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

         The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) announced today (February 28) the list of banks for the RMB Trade Financing Liquidity Facility (RMB TFLF) in Phase 1 (see Annex), effective from today.
          
         About RMB50 billion of the total size of RMB100 billion of this facility has been allocated to the participating banks. A specific quota is assigned to each bank based on the pipelines as expected by the bank, and referencing the bank’s existing scale of relevant business, among other factors. The banks can now apply for RMB funds from the HKMA from today through the RMB TFLF based on their provision of RMB trade finance to corporate customers within the assigned quota.
          
         The HKMA will closely review the implementation of the RMB TFLF, including its operation, banks’ RMB trade finance activities and facility usage, as well as market development needs. Subject to the operation of the facility and market demand, we plan to proceed to the next phase of quota allocation around the middle of this year. Banks not yet ready in Phase 1 are encouraged to continue developing their RMB trade finance business so as to be ready to join in later phases. Terms and operation details of the RMB TFLF are found in this Circular.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY HON. FALEOMAVAEGA TITIMAEA TAFUA, MINISTER OF MCIL AT THE SIGNING OF THE SAMOA DECENT WORK COUNTRY PROGRAM 2024-2028. – 20th February 2025.

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    Reverend, Houlton Faasau

    Regional Director for the ILO in the Pacific – Mr Martin Wandera,

    ILO Officials from Fiji and the National ILO Coordinator in Samoa,

    Members of the Samoa National Tripartite Forum (SNTF),

    Members of the National Occupational Safety and Health (NOSH) Taskforce,

    Members of the Child Labour Taskforce,

    Senior Executives of Government Agencies, Private Sector and Non-Government Organizations,

    Distinguished Partners and Guests;

    Talofa lava with a smile,

    A smile is one of the identities of the Pacific people which is part of our great hospitality to welcome all visitors to our beautiful shores.

    It is a new day and further testament to the merciful Grace of our Father in Heaven, through His divine leadership and protection over our great nation.

    In particular, the Government of Samoa and its people welcome the ILO Regional Director in the Pacific, Mr Martin Wandera with warm greetings from another Pacific Island, the paradise and the pearl of the Pacific, Samoa, Talofa lava.

    I am sure we are joined in the belief that Samoa is a blessed nation, mostly when we continue to witness on a daily basis the suffering and grief we have been spared from, the long effect of Covid-19, Whooping Cough, climate change crisis, and all its worst scenarios we foresee on media or surrounding environment in the face of developments. Yet; we are here today, building a strong future, the future of decent work and commitment to fair labour conditions for our people and for all.

    Todays’ event marks another milestone for the signing of our fourth Decent Work Country Program since Samoa became a member of the ILO. The government can not achieve the set priorities under this program without the support and contributions from our employers and workers, civil society and all others. They have played a major role to ensure public and private partnerships as well as employer and employee relationships define how we effectively implement this program as we did in the previous programs. With any labour work; we encounter problems, and with problems, we learn lessons and educate ourselves to come up with solutions.

    The Decent Work Country Programs (DWCP) is the framework for delivering ILOs support to promote Decent Work for all of its member countries. The priorities of the DWCP are aligned with the Pathway for the Development of Samoa, the United Nations Pacific Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-2027, and its contribution to achieve the 2030 Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals.

    We acknowledge the ongoing determinations and commitment by the ILO in supporting the labour system in Samoa through a variety of activities and the development of this new DWCP. However, the end of a tunnel, is the beginning of a new journey. The journey of ensuring implementation and planning and evaluations are in good grounds, for the future of Samoa in decent work programs.

    In addition, we acknowledge the great effort and contributions from our stakeholders in the government, private sector, civil societies and everyone who have played their part to ensure we achieve the priority areas of our Decent Work Country Program within the next four years. Without your deep assurance and support, our goals could not be achieved.

    May our Lord be the center of every work we do, so that the achievements of our work today, will be enjoyed by our people living tomorrow.

    I wish you all a pleasant day.

    God Bless

    Faafetai tele lava

    Saunoaga Autu Afioga i le Minisita o Pisinisi, Alamanuia ma Leipa le afioga Faleomavaega Titimaea Tafua i le sainiga o le Lona 4 o Polokalame ma Galuega Talafeagai a Samoa 2024-2028

    (Aso Tofi, 20 Fepuari 2025, Tanoa Tusitala, 9.00am)

    Susuga i le faafeagaiga, Houlton Faasau

    Faatonu Sili a le Faalapotopotoga Faavaomalo o Leipa i le Pasefika, Mr Martin Wandera;

    Faapea ma ana Ofisa Soo Upu mai le Malo o Fiti ma Samoa nei

    Sui ole Fono Aoao Faatafatolu o Samoa

    Sui a le Komiti Faafoe o le Saogalemu ma le Soifua Maloloina i Samoa

    Sui o le Komiti Faafoe mo le Faafaigaluegaina o Fanau

    Ofisa Sili o Matagaluega ma Ofisa a le Malo, Pisinisi Tumaoti ma Faalapotopotoga Tumaoti

    Ma le mamalu i Paaga ma Valaaulia

    Talofa Lava ma le laufofoga fiafia,

    Manatu o lenei faamoemoe, o lea ua tufala tulima le lupe sa talifau i le atu folasa o Tupu, ina ua mae’a ona megamega i tafua le aneanea, ae fa’atili foemuli le Tautai sa fai ma To’o taumua; ma le folauga ua tutaga eleele i lenei taeao ua manū to mai lagi. Malo afua; malo ua maua ile Alofa ma le Agalelei ole Silisili Ese.

    O paia ole taeao ma le aso e le toe faafuluina faa-ie se’ese’e a matuau’u, aua e tala-tau Toga, ae tala Tofi Samoa, ile afua mai ile matāsaua ole Tuimanua, se’ia pā’ia le si’uolefanua na malele ai le Nafanua, tali i Lagi se Ao o lou Mālo. E Faigata Tama ma o latou Aiga, Aiga foi ma Tama, usoga Tumua ma Pule, Ituau ma Alataua, Aiga i le Tai ma le Vaa o Fonoti. Ae matua le tu’u le aufai tatalo isi o tatou atunuu, Tulou, tulouna lava.

    Ua tatou aofia poto i lenei taeao, sei o tatou molimauina le sainiga o le lona 4 o Polokalame mo Galuega Talafeagai (DWCP) a Samoa, e faavae mai i fuafuaga a le Faalapotopotoga Faavaomalo o Leipa mo ona sui auai. E faafetaia ai le lagolagosua a sui ole Fono Aoao Faatafatolu a Samoa (SNTF), sui o Komiti Faafoe ole Saogalemu ma le Soifua Maloloina faapea ma le Faafaigaluegaina o Fanau, o matagaluega ma faalapotopotoga a le Malo, ma le Vaega tumaoti, aua le lauliliuina o lenei polokalama ina ia ‘ausia matāti’a ua faata’atitia, mo le atinaeina o galuega e gafatia ma talafeagai aua se soifua manuia o nai o tatou tagata.

    Ia manuia tele lo tatou faamoemoe i lenei taeao.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Address by Prime Minister Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa at the Farewell reception for the outgoing UN Resident Coordinator

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    Taumeasina Island Resort, Tuesday 18 February 18:30pm

    Talofa lava and good evening to you all.

    I am happy to join you this evening to bid farewell to Mr. Themba Kalua, who has served with dedication and commitment as the United Nations Resident Coordinator for Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau.

    Let me first of all acknowledge the successful conclusion of the Government of Samoa–UN Country Implementation Plan (CIP) Workshop today, which brought together government officials, UN agencies, and stakeholders to set the priorities for our cooperation over the next three years. I am grateful to all who contributed their time, expertise, and insights to this important process.

    Mr. Kalua, your tenure has been marked by steadfast leadership in strengthening the partnership between Samoa and the United Nations. Your efforts have added to Samoa’s voice and priorities being heard in regional and global discussions; your advocacy has led to increased UN technical expertise and engagement in areas important to our national development.

    Notably, your tenure, though shortened, has fostered a more coordinated and integrated UN engagement, aligning with the UN Secretary-General’s reform agenda, which Samoa has strongly supported.

    I would like to highlight three significant achievements of your tenure:

    1️. Advancing Samoa’s SDG Implementation & National Priorities through the joint UN technical support for the preparation of Samoa’s Third Voluntary National Review (VNR), which was successfully presented at the High-Level Political Forum last year.

    Additionally, we appreciate your support for the SDG Acceleration Initiative which the UN launched last year to help drive targeted actions in climate action including NDC 3.0, food systems transformation, gender-based violence, non-communicable diseases and economic development. The joint programs launched have reinforced collaborative, high-impact solutions to some of our development challenges.

    2. UN’s Support to CHOGM 2024.

    Samoa’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in October 2024 was a historic milestone. We thank you for your role in mobilizing and coordinating UN technical support to forums and events at CHOGM.

    3. Hosting the UN Secretary-General in Samoa

    Your leadership also ensured the successful hosting of the historic visit of the United Nations Secretary-General to Samoa last year. This visit reinforced the importance of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the global development agenda and reaffirmed Samoa’s role as a strong advocate for climate action, resilience, and sustainable development.

    We are pleased to know that you will continue to influence the global agenda in ways that matter to Samoa and other SIDS in your new post.

    Congratulations on your appointment as Director for the Pact for the Future Implementation in the Executive Office of the UN Secretary-General.

    Samoa contributed to this landmark resolution, and we look forward to working with you in your new capacity to ensure that the unique challenges and aspirations of our region remain visible and well-supported at the highest levels of the UN.

    We value our partnership with the United Nations, and I am confident that the Samoa UN Country Team will continue to build upon the strong foundation you and your predecessors have helped establish.

    On behalf of the Government and people of Samoa, I would like to express my gratitude for your service to Samoa. We wish you all the very best and look forward to continuing our collaboration in your new role.

    SOIFUA

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: KEYNOTE ADDRESS by the Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa to Official Open the Peer and Collective Learning (PCL) Talanoa (Forum) for Polynesian Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) 2025.

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    17th February, 2025 @ 9:30AM – Sheraton Hotel, Apia.

    Rev Maauga Motu,

    Members of the Diplomatic Corp,

    Private Sector and Civil Society Organizations,

    Representatives of Organizations of persons with disabilities from the Polynesian Sub Region,

    President of the Nuanua o le Alofa,

    Distinguished guests,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Talofa lava,

    I am honored to deliver the Keynote Address as Prime Minister of the Independent State of Samoa, to officially open the Peer and Collective Learning (PCL) -Talanoa (Forum) for Polynesian Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) 2025.

    The Government of Samoa is committed to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. We are intentional to uphold the SDG mantra of ‘Leave No One Behind’ in our national development actions, our sectoral policies, programs and practices. Since ratification in 2016, we have taken concrete steps to implement the UNCRPD through our development efforts. The National Development Plan of Samoa demonstrates commitment to safeguard persons with disabilities across its priority areas. The National Disability Policy has translated the CRPD into national action to ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are realised through services and access to opportunities for persons with disabilities and their families.

    Some specific areas of progress are; disability disaggregated data with the Washington Group short set of questions in our 2016 and one of the first three countries in the Pacific to produce its disability monograph out of the census. Recently, in 2021, through the partnership with UN agencies and the strong leadership of Nuanua O Le Alofa (NOLA) we have implemented the cash transfer program to persons with disabilities. We acknowledge the commitment and leadership from Nuanua O Le Alofa in its advocacy in supporting and working alongside Government to make a difference to the lives of persons with disabilities and their families. Like many other countries in our Pacific, ensuring that persons with disabilities are part of National Development Plans is another top priority to Samoa.

    I am told that this week you have your ‘peer and collective learning exchange program’, a platform established by the Disability Rights Fund to support your learning and cross learning amongst organisations of persons with disabilities in the Polynesia subregion. The dialogue this week or Talanoa as the Samoan say, is constructive dialogue to enable your learning, support your growth, enable your development is also key to our indigenous way of learning. I am sure you are here to share your experiences, knowledge and discuss solutions that you can take back home, solutions to remove barriers, influence systems and processes and ensure that we as Government are inclusive of persons with disabilities and to understand your diverse needs, ensuring that NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND in our communities.

    From a Government’s perspective, this is also an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the diverse initiatives that Governments within our sub region have to protect, promote and ensure the rights of persons with disabilities. To engage in constructive dialogue and to contribute to national developments and nation building as key partners and beneficiaries of these developments, whether its accessing health services, employment opportunities or any other mainstream services. I am aware that the Government must ensure that specific services such as sign language, peer support, carers or personal assistances are keys to your inclusion and participation.

    I wish you well in your deliberations and learning this week. I now declare your meeting officially open.

    Soifua.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: JOINT MEDIA RELEASE WITH SAMSUNG NEW ZEALAND – Samoa Takes a Significant Step in Tackling the E-Waste Crisis with Samsung New Zealand’s Support

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    [20th February 2025]- The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) Samoa is pleased to announce a significant milestone in addressing Samoa’s growing e-waste issue. In partnership with Samsung Electronics New Zealand, Blue Orca, Echo, and the Samoa and Tokelau Association of Recyclers (S.T.A.R), over 12.9 tons of electronic waste (e-waste) have been successfully transported to New Zealand for responsible recycling.

    E-waste continues to be one of the largest and most challenging waste streams in Samoa, with limited options available for safe disposal and recycling. The collaboration between MNRE, Samsung New Zealand, and other key partners marks a major step in addressing the environmental threat posed by e-waste, which contains toxic metals that can severely affect our natural ecosystems.

    Under the Moana Taka Partnership initiative with Swire Shipping, 12,911 kg of e-waste were collected and shipped to New Zealand, where they will be recycled responsibly. This initiative prevented 76.35 kg of toxic metals from contaminating the soil and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 3,702 kg, providing significant environmental and community benefits.

    Samoa’s participation in this program follows a 2024 assessment conducted by Blue Orca, which highlighted the limited local recycling infrastructure across the Pacific Islands. The findings emphasized the need for greater action in managing e-waste responsibly, as the region faces mounting environmental pressures.

    “The initiative led by Samsung New Zealand and their partners is a crucial step in protecting Samoa’s environment. With e-waste being one of our most significant waste streams, this partnership plays an essential role in ensuring that we handle electronic waste in a responsible and sustainable way”

    This is the message from the Waste Management and Pollution Control Division of the MNRE. Furthermore, the Ministry is committed to working with all stakeholders to create solutions that reduce waste and promote sustainability across the nation.

    The program also aligns with MNRE’s ongoing efforts to address waste management and environmental protection in the Pacific Islands. It complements the Ministry’s broader strategy to minimize harmful waste, raise awareness on environmental conservation, and foster regional cooperation on sustainability issues.

    Samsung New Zealand’s commitment to sustainability, alongside its ongoing collaboration with local organizations like Echo, has already seen the successful recycling of over 73 tonnes of e- waste in New Zealand through collection drives and awareness campaigns.

    “We are proud of our ongoing partnership with MNRE Samoa and local stakeholders like S.T.A.R., who play an integral role in this initiative,” said Shannon Watts, Marketing Director for Samsung Electronics New Zealand. “Together, we are taking tangible steps toward mitigating the environmental impact of e-waste in Samoa and the broader Pacific region.”

    The Ministry encourages the public to continue supporting these efforts by responsibly disposing of their electronic waste and participating in future recycling programs. As we move forward, MNRE Samoa will continue to work closely with international and local partners to strengthen Samoa’s waste management infrastructure and foster a more sustainable future for all Samoans.

    E-Waste Collection Breakdown:

    Samoa:

    • 12,911 kg of e-waste collected

    • 3,702.8 kg of greenhouse gas emissions avoided

    • 76.35 kg of toxic metals diverted from landfill

    ENDS

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESS RELEASE – Samoa Airways Responds to False Allegations of Drug Transport in Coffin

    Source: Government of Western Samoa

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    APIA, Samoa – Samoa Airways would like to address the false and damaging allegations made by an individual named Mau Hunt this week regarding the transport of an empty coffin from Pago Pago, which he claims contained illegal drugs. These claims are entirely unfounded, and we would like to clarify the situation for the public and our valued customers.

    Samoa Airways has strict guidelines and processes in place to ensure the safe and respectful transport of human remains, should a coffin need to be transported on one of our aircraft. All coffins transported by Samoa Airways are accompanied by family members or authorized representatives, and the entire process is fully documented and compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

    We want to emphasize that Samoa Airways has never transported a coffin in the manner described by Mr. Hunt, and there is no truth to the allegations of drug trafficking associated with any cargo we have handled. The safety and security of our passengers and cargo is a top priority, and we take any attempt to undermine the integrity of our operations seriously.

    These allegations not only harm the reputation of Samoa Airways, but they also erode the trust that the public has in the professionalism and dedication of our staff. In light of the severity of these false claims, Samoa Airways is referring the matter to the Police. We are committed to fully cooperating with any investigation and will take all necessary steps to protect the integrity of our airline.

    We strongly advise against the circulation of misinformation that could damage the trust and reputation of Samoa Airways, as well as the livelihoods of our dedicated employees.

    We remain committed to providing safe, reliable, and professional services to our passengers, and we thank our customers for their ongoing trust and support.

    END.

    SOURCE – Samoa Airways

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Korean F&B delegation visits Hong Kong to explore business opportunities (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Korean F&B delegation visits Hong Kong to explore business opportunities (with photos)
    Korean F&B delegation visits Hong Kong to explore business opportunities (with photos)
    **************************************************************************************

         ​Subsequent to the visit by the Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), Ms Alpha Lau, to Seoul, Korea, last week (February 20 and 21) to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages, a delegation of Korean food and beverage companies visited Hong Kong from February 25 to 27 to explore business opportunities in the city. InvestHK and its Korean office, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Tokyo) and Korea Franchise Association, co-organised a three-day business delegation trip. The visit facilitated exchanges between the Korean and local food and beverage (F&B) companies, further promoting business opportunities in Hong Kong’s F&B industry.      On the first day of the trip, the Head of Tourism and Hospitality at InvestHK, Ms Sindy Wong, shared Hong Kong’s business advantages and the local F&B market landscape with the delegation, helping companies gain a deeper understanding of the city’s business environment. The event featured a series of themed seminars, networking sessions and business matching opportunities with local restaurant operators. The seminars included case studies and insights into the retail property market.  Additionally, the delegates visited Tai Kwun, Soho, and Tsim Sha Tsui to gain first-hand insights into the latest developments in Hong Kong’s F&B and retail property scene. These visits also provided an opportunity for them to explore the potential for Korean specialty cuisine to enter and thrive in the local market.       “Hong Kong and Korea have for a long time enjoyed strong ties across many areas, including trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges. We are a city of culinary delights, with over 17 000 places for food, including 79 Michelin-star restaurants, six of Asia’s 50 best restaurants, and nine of Asia’s 50 best bars,” said Ms Lau. At the welcome dinner on the first day of the trip, Ms Lau warmly welcomed the Korean business delegation and said, “We hope the delegation finds the programme useful and makes great business connections, and also new friends, on this trip. We are confident that they will find partners to establish their restaurants here and join our exciting F&B scene in the near future.”     ​Seeing that the visit concluded successfully with a fruitful outcome, the Principal Hong Kong Economic and Trade Representative (Tokyo), Miss Winsome Au, stated, “Our office is pleased to drive this first Korean business delegation mission to Hong Kong. Indeed, Korean cuisine is garnering increasing attention in Hong Kong, thanks to the global popularity of K-culture. Our office will continue our efforts in supporting this joint initiative of promoting mutual understanding between Hong Kong and Korean companies, and we hope that these efforts will lead to more investment and collaboration in various fields.”      The Chief Executive Officer of PSP F&D Co Ltd, Mr Park Sangyoung, stated, “The vibrant dining atmosphere in Hong Kong makes it an ideal platform to showcase Korean culinary culture. We are very optimistic about the market prospects. This event has given us the opportunity to share Korea’s diverse food culture and also helped us build valuable partnerships with Hong Kong’s F&B industry. This will serve as a solid foundation for our future expansion into Hong Kong and the wider Asian market.”      The Chief Executive Officer of ALL F&B Co Ltd, Mr Bang Kyoungseok, added, “Hong Kong consumers’ passion for Korean cuisine, along with their high standards for food quality, perfectly aligns with our brand philosophy. We understand more about the Hong Kong market through this event and will start planning our development here. We look forward to bringing the most authentic Korean dining experience to Hong Kong.”      The Chief Operating Officer of LUBUDS, Ms Berfa Chow, said, “Netflix’s Korean cuisine reality show ‘Culinary Class Wars’ has become globally famous, further boosting the popularity of Korean cuisine in Hong Kong’s dining scene. We are thrilled for the opportunity to explore collaboration with several renowned Korean restaurant groups. Combining their expertise with our in-depth local market knowledge, we are confident in delivering more top-notch, authentic Korean dining experiences to Hong Kong consumers while seizing this exciting market opportunity.”      The Vice Chairman of Fulum Group Holdings Limited, Professor Keith Wu, stated, “From K-dramas and K-pop to Korean cuisine, Korean culture is going viral and young consumers show a strong appetite for authentic Korean dining. We are excited to explore collaborations with well-known Korean restaurant brands, aiming to strategically enhance our offerings with more Korean elements and further enrich our brand portfolio.”

     
    Ends/Friday, February 28, 2025Issued at HKT 12:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Views on green transit plan received

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government announced today that it received 27 expressions of interest (EOIs) submissions for the Smart & Green Mass Transit System (SGMTS) project in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen and Yuen Long South New Development Areas (NDAs).

    The Transport Department explained that it, together with the Transport & Logistics Bureau, invited relevant system suppliers and operators to submit EOIs for the SGMTS project in the NDAs on December 20 last year.

    The department said that the EOIs, after analysis, will serve as a reference for firming up the specific requirements and designs of the SGMTS and the relevant infrastructure, as well as ascertaining the delivery mode and financial arrangements of the project.

    Once it makes reference to the views gathered, the Government can explore various procurement options and review the feasibility of shortening the overall programme of the project, the department added.

    The Government plans to invite tenders for the project in 2026 and award the contract in 2027.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on IIFL Samasta Finance Limited

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated February 24, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹33.10 lakh (Rupees Thirty Three Lakh Ten Thousand only) on IIFL Samasta Finance Limited (the company) for non-compliance with certain provisions of the ‘Non-Banking Financial Company – Systemically Important Non-Deposit taking Company and Deposit taking Company (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2016‘ and ‘Reserve Bank of India (Know Your Customer (KYC)) Directions, 2016‘ issued by RBI. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under clause (b) of sub-section (1) of Section 58G read with clause (aa) of sub-section (5) of Section 58B of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

    The statutory inspection of the company was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the company advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions.

    After considering the company’s reply to the notice, oral submissions made during the personal hearing and additional submissions made by it, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the company were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    1. The company charged interest on loans for a period prior to the date of actual disbursement of loan / issuance of cheque to certain borrowers in contravention of RBI directions on ‘Fair Practices Code’;

    2. The company failed to classify certain loan accounts with overdues of 90 days or more as Non-Performing Assets (NPAs);

    3. It classified certain loan accounts which were NPA as ‘standard asset’ without realisation of entire arrears of interest and principal amount due; and

    4. It allotted multiple customer identification codes to certain individual customers instead of a Unique Customer Identification Code (UCIC) to each individual customer.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the company with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the company.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2281

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary-General/Bangladesh, Ramadan, Türkiye & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (27 February)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/Bangladesh
    Secretary-General/Ramadan Message
    Türkiye
    Haiti
    Ukraine
    Sudan
    Democratic Republic of the Congo/Jean-Pierre Lacroix
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Staff Security

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/BANGLADESH
    Every year, the Secretary-General does a Ramadan solidarity visit, where he likes to visit and fast with a Muslim community, which is facing distress. He began this tradition when he was High Commissioner for Refugees. In his own words, the Secretary-General said that Ramadan embodies the values of compassion, empathy and generosity. It is an opportunity to reconnect with family, with community and a chance to remember those less fortunate. These missions are to remind the world of the true face of Islam.
    This year, the Secretary-General will be going to Bangladesh from the 13-16 March. He will travel to Cox’s Bazaar to join an Iftar and meet with Rohingya refugees who have been forcibly displaced from their homes in Myanmar, and also, of course, with the host Bangladeshi communities who have been generously in hosting the refugees from Myanmar.
    During his visit, he will also be in the capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka, where he will meet with the Chief Adviser for the interim government, Professor Muhammed Yunus, as well as with young women and men and representatives from civil society.

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/RAMADAN MESSAGE
    In his annual message at the start of Ramadan, the Secretary-General expressed a special message of support to all those who will spend this sacred time in displacement and violence. From Gaza and the wider region, to Sudan, the Sahel and beyond.
    The Secretary-General stands with all those who are suffering and joins those observing Ramadan to call for peace and mutual respect.

    TÜRKIYE
    On the reports coming out of Türkiye regarding Abdullah Öcalan, the imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party, the PKK, and his message calling for fighters to lay down their arms and the PKK to dissolve itself, the spokesperson said that the Secretary-General welcomes this important development. This represents a glimmer of hope, which would lead to the resolution of a long-standing conflict.

    HAITI
    The World Food Programme (WFP) today said that, as part of their emergency response in Haiti, they continue to provide critical food assistance, cash-based transfers, and hot meals across the Artibonite, Nord, and Ouest departments. This includes $1.2 million in cash assistance, as well as nearly 3,000 meals distributed in border regions to Haitians deported back to their country.
    Last week, the WFP organized the first of two humanitarian cargo flights from Panama City to Port-au-Prince. This was the first humanitarian cargo flight to land at the Port-au-Prince airport since its closure lastNovember.
    The flight carried medicines, vaccines, and medical supplies for eight humanitarian organizations. A second flight is scheduled in about one month.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=27%20February%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nX1Wlh5xwHk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English Translation of Opening Address by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the Plenary Session with the President of the European Commission (February 28, 2025)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 FEB 2025 5:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Your Excellencies,

    I warmly welcome you all to India. The engagement of the EU College of Commissioners with a single country on such a broad scale is unprecedented.

    It’s the first time that so many of my ministers have collected together for any bilateral discussions. I remember how you said that India and the EU are natural partners at the Raisina Dialogue in 2022. And that strengthening and energizing ties with India, will be a priority for the EU in the coming decade.

    And now, you’re visiting India at the very beginning of your new term.This is a milestone moment for India and the EU.

    Excellencies,

    The world is currently undergoing unprecedented change. AI and emerging technologies are leading to socio-economic transformations.

    Geo-economic and political circumstances are rapidly evolving. And old equations are breaking down. In times like these, the partnership between India and the EU becomes even more important.

    A shared belief in democratic values, strategic autonomy, and rule-based global order unite India and the EU.Both countries are mega diverse market economies. In a sense, we are natural strategic partners.

    Excellencies,

    India and the EU have completed twenty years of strategic partnership. And with your visit, we are laying the foundation for the next decade.

    In this context, the remarkable commitment shown by both parties is commendable. About twenty ministerial level meetings have taken place in the last two days.

    The Trade and Technology Council meeting was also successfully organised this morning. Both teams will present a report on the ideas generated and the progress made.

    Excellencies,

    I would like to identify some priority areas of cooperation.

    The first is Trade and Investment. It is crucial to conclude a mutually beneficial FTA and Investment Protection Agreement as soon as possible.

    The second is strengthening the Supply Chain Resilience. Our capabilities can complement each other in sectors such as Electronics, Semiconductors, Telecom, Engineering, Defence, and Pharma.This will strengthen diversification and de-risking, and will aid in the creation of a secure, reliable and trusted supply and value chain.

    The third is Connectivity. The IMEC Corridor launched during the G20 Summit is a transformational initiative. Both the teams must continue working on it with strong commitment.

    The fourth is Technology and Innovation. To realise our shared vision of tech sovereignty, we must continue to make swift progress ahead. In areas such as DPI, AI, Quantum Computing, Space and 6G, both parties must work together to connect our industries, innovators, and young talents.

    The fifth is Climate Action and Green Energy Innovation. India and the EU have prioritised the Green transition. Through cooperation in sustainable urbanization, water, and clean energy, we can become drivers of global green growth.

    The sixth is Defence. We can fulfil each others’ needs through co-development and co-production. We must work to prioritise each other in export control laws.

    The seventh is Security. There is a need for greater cooperation on challenges arising from terrorism, extremism, maritime security, cyber security and space security.

    The eighth is People-to-People Ties. It should be a priority for both parties to make Migration, Mobility, Schengen Visas and EU Blue Cards simple and smooth. This stands to fulfil the needs of the EU. And India’s young workforce shall be able to make an even greater contribution to Europe’s growth and prosperity.

    Excellencies,

    For the next India-EU Summit, we must move forward with ambition, action and commitment.

    In today’s AI era, the future shall belong to those who demonstrate vision and speed.

    Excellency, I now invite you to share your thoughts.

    *****

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2106997) Visitor Counter : 84

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by DSJ at closing ceremony of National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung kwok-kwan, at the closing ceremony of the National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong) today (February 28):

    Mr Zhao (Vice Chairman and General Manager of China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited, Mr Zhao Zhenhua), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

    Good afternoon. As we gather here today to conclude the National Training Course for Talents Handling Foreign-related Arbitration (Hong Kong), I am reminded of the saying that “time flies when you are having fun. It seems like just yesterday we were welcoming you to this Course. Yet, here we are, at the end of an enriching journey that has spanned several days of insightful lectures, engaging dialogues and practical experience.

    First, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Justice, the China University of Political Science and Law, and the China Legal Service (H.K.) Limited for their support and trust in the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy. We are deeply grateful for their support and assistance, which have been crucial to the success of this Course. I eagerly anticipate our continued collaboration and future endeavors together.

    I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to each of you for your active participation and valuable contributions. The thoughtful questions you asked, the insightful perspectives you shared, and the engaging discussions you participated in have all significantly enriched our collective learning experience.

    As you may be aware of, the Supreme People’s Court and the Ministry of Justice of the People’s Republic of China have jointly issued the (Opinions on Giving Full Play to the Role of Arbitration to Serve the High-quality Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area), expanding the scope of arbitration services regarding “Hong Kong-invested enterprises choosing Hong Kong Law” and “Hong Kong-invested enterprises choosing Hong Kong as the arbitration place.

    The new measures, effective from February 14 of this year, include that (i) Hong Kong-invested enterprises registered in Shenzhen and Zhuhai may choose Hong Kong law as the applicable laws in contracts, regardless of the proportion of investment; and (ii) Hong Kong-invested enterprises registered in the nine Mainland municipalities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) may choose Hong Kong as the place of arbitration to resolve commercial disputes, in addition to being able to agree on the Mainland as the arbitration location.

    These new measures implement the content of the Second Agreement Concerning Amendment to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement Agreement on Trade in Services in October last year, providing investors and enterprises in the GBA with more and broader legal services options. They also establish a better, more diversified dispute resolution mechanism based on joint discussion, joint construction, and shared benefits.

    The Opinions provide suggestions for accelerating the construction of world-class arbitration institutions in the GBA, establishing unified first-class arbitration rules and online negotiation and resolution platforms in the GBA, expanding the service areas of arbitration institutions in the nine Mainland municipalities of the GBA, improving the arbitration and succession mechanisms, as well as the judicial supervision mechanisms, and establishing a training mechanism for foreign-related arbitration.

    The Department of Justice of the Hong Kong Special Administration Region will continue to actively co-operate with municipalities in the GBA to promote the integrated development, seeking to give full play to Hong Kong’s capability in nurturing foreign-related legal talents, and assist the country in providing more training for foreign-related talents.

    As the Academy strives to continuously improve and enhance our training programmes, we would greatly appreciate your feedback on this Course. As you all hail from diverse backgrounds in government, universities, lawyers’ associations and enterprises, and are all leaders and experts in your respective fields, your insights and suggestions are very invaluable to us, helping us tailor future courses to better meet your needs and expectations.

    As we move forward, let us continue to build on the connections and insights that we gained from this Course. I wish you all a safe journey back home, and continued success in your professional pursuits. Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKETO, Brussels celebrates Chinese New Year across Europe and highlights Hong Kong’s exciting year ahead (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) hosted vibrant Chinese New Year receptions across various European countries, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake. The receptions, held in Luxembourg (February 12), Lisbon, Portugal (February 17), The Hague, the Netherlands (February 20), and Bucharest, Romania (February 25), were well-received by distinguished guests and partners.

         The receptions provided an opportunity to reflect on Hong Kong’s achievements and share the city’s vision. HKETO, Brussels emphasised Hong Kong’s dynamic calendar of world-class events that solidify its reputation as “Events Capital of Asia”.  Stepping into 2025 with great dynamism and enthusiasm, Hong Kong is set to host an array of high-profile events spanning business, sports, arts, and culture. “Hong Kong is entering the new year with energy and glamour, full of exciting events that highlight our dynamic cosmopolitan spirit,” stated the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Yung.

         In 2024, Hong Kong recorded 45 million international arrivals, nearly 10 000 foreign and Mainland companies, 2 700 family offices and 4 700 start-ups, demonstrating that Hong Kong remains a magnet for visitors and businesses alike. Hong Kong is poised for further success with upcoming initiatives, such as a lowered liquor tax, to enhance its appeal to international visitors and fulfil its role as the international financial, trade and shipping centre.

         “Hong Kong’s distinct advantages were recognised in the latest international rankings,” Ms Yung said during the receptions, noting that Hong Kong is ranked among the world’s top three international financial centres, the freest economy in the world, and among the top five in global competitiveness. Ms Yung elaborated that global investors continue to have confidence in Hong Kong, as evidenced by the continuous inflow of funds and growth in bank deposits. The asset and wealth management sector in Hong Kong is also handling over US$4 trillion, representing more than a 30 per cent increase in six years.

         HKETO, Brussels also highlighted Hong Kong as a hub for international cultural exchange, where East meets West. In Lisbon, guests experienced a unique cultural fusion centred on ballet that blends classical technique with contemporary sensibility, performed by Lam Chun-wing, a well-known Hong Kong-born ballet dancer, and an original transcription of Debussy’s “Prélude” for piano solo by the renowned French pianist Alexandre Tharaud. The performance was accompanied by breathtaking video projections specifically produced for the occasion, showcasing Hong Kong’s lesser-known natural landscapes and revealing a side of Hong Kong far removed from its urban reputation as a bustling financial hub of skyscrapers and dense modernity.

         In The Hague, an ensemble of talented Hong Kong musicians presented a vibrant mix of popular cantopop songs and moving opera arias. The outstanding performance by the soprano and tenor singers, accompanied by keyboard, won enthusiastic applause from the audience.

         The receptions in Luxembourg, Lisbon, The Hague and Bucharest brought together 700 guests, including officials from national governments, consulates and embassies, financial and business sectors, academia, cultural and creative sectors, media and the Chinese community. They were co-organised with Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council; the Luxembourg Chamber of Commence and the China-Luxembourg Chamber of Commercefor the reception in Luxembourg, the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association for the reception in The Hague, with the support of The Portugal-Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the reception in Lisbon, and the National Confederation for Female Entrepreneurship for the reception in Bucharest.                                          

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointment of self-recommended youth members to Advisory Committee on Recycling Fund announced

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appointment of self-recommended youth members to Advisory Committee on Recycling Fund announced
    Appointment of self-recommended youth members to Advisory Committee on Recycling Fund announced
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         The Government today announced (February 28) the appointment of Ms Melody Wong Yee-ting and Ms Syalis Kwok Mei-sin as new members to the Advisory Committee on Recycling Fund through the Member Self-recommendation Scheme for Youth (MSSY) for a term from March 1, 2025, to July 31, 2027.     To facilitate the operation of the Recycling Fund, the Advisory Committee on Recycling Fund was established in August 2015 to advise and make recommendations to the Government on matters relating to the overall administration and operation of the Recycling Fund. Furthermore, the Government regularly recruits young persons aged between 18 and 35 who are eager to serve the community to join the Government’s advisory committees through the MSSY with a view to providing more opportunities for young people to participate in policy discussions.     The membership of the Advisory Committee on Recycling Fund is as follows:      ChairpersonDr Daniel Yip Chung-yin MembersMs Bonnie Chan Jo-yingMr Nathan Chau Cheuk-yinDr Chung Shan-shanMs Judy Ho Pui-SuenDr Amie Lai GorMr Nicholas Lai Yui-manDr Barry Lee Chi-hongDr Frank Leung Yat-cheongMr Yuet Ngai-keungDr Edward Chan Chi-wingMr Jude Chow Chee-pingMs Melanie Kwok Hoi-yeeProf Raymond Leung Hai-mingMs Sabrina Leung Heung-yingMr Harvey Liu Wing-taiMr Thomas Wong Cheung-chiMs Melody Wong Yee-ting*Ms Syalis Kwok Mei-sin* * New members appointed through the MSSY

     
    Ends/Friday, February 28, 2025Issued at HKT 12:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCST at opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SCST at opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 (English only)
    Speech by SCST at opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 (English only)
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         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Belt & Road International Symposium 2025 today (February 28):     President Julia Lau (President of the Hong Kong Institute of Architects), 葉副部長 (Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Ye Shuiqiu), 孟建民副理事長 (Vice Chairman of the Architectural Society of China, Dr Meng Jianmin), Ar Saifuddin (President of Architects Regional Council Asia, Mr Saifuddin Bin Ahmad), Ar Gonthier (President of International Union of Architects, Ms Regina Gonthier), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,      Good morning. It gives me great pleasure to join you this morning at the opening of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) Belt and Road International Symposium 2025. This is my first time attending an HKIA event as the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, but actually I am very happy to see many old friends in this distinguished audience.           As an important strategy of the Central People’s Government, the Belt and Road Initiative has entered its golden era. Themed as “Cultiversal – The Tapestry of Cultural Diversity & Universality”, the Symposium today is held at an opportune time. I believe many of us would actually look forward to hearing from the prestigious speakers to share their insights on urban-rural integration, heritage and modernity, and other interesting topics on architecture. May I give a warm welcome to these elites from Hong Kong, the Mainland of China and seven other countries.            In the coming two days, we will be exploring innovative possibilities for the future with a view to promoting Hong Kong’s architectural services to the Mainland of China and countries along the Belt and Road Initiative.           Funded by the Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, today’s Symposium aims at fostering the exchange of local and international professionals in the industry of architecture. The objective also aligns with the policy direction of the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) under my Bureau.           The CCIDA is dedicated to fostering a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. The architecture sector, being one of the major components of our robust cultural and creative industries, has been a close partner of the CCIDA. We have also sponsored the HKIA Biennale Foundation to organise the Hong Kong Collateral Event at Biennale Architettura – International Architecture Exhibition and Hong Kong Shenzhen Bi-City Biennale of UrbanismArchitecture (Hong Kong) to promote Hong Kong’s architecture in the international arena and to the local public. I am thrilled to learn that the Hong Kong Collateral Event has developed into a roving exhibition which also tours in one Belt and Road country and the Mainland of China in each edition.           Speaking of the development of creative industries in Hong Kong, the Government promulgated the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development in November last year, setting out a clear vision, principles and strategic directions for the development of the industries, thereby further consolidating Hong Kong’s position as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. We will continue to support the cultural and creative industries, including the architecture sector, to tap into new markets and promote cultural exchanges, in particular with Belt and Road countries and regions.           Before I close, I would like to congratulate the HKIA for organising another successful edition of the Symposium. Thank you.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 28, 2025Issued at HKT 11:52

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Lifesaving services at gazetted beaches in March

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Lifesaving services at gazetted beaches in March
    Lifesaving services at gazetted beaches in March
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         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (February 28) the following arrangements on lifesaving services for the period from March 1 to 31: Deep Water Bay Beach, Repulse Bay Beach, Stanley Main Beach, Big Wave Bay Beach, Clear Water Bay Second Beach, Silverstrand Beach, Silver Mine Bay Beach, Golden Beach, Lido Beach and Casam Beach——————————————————————————————————–Lifesaving services provided from 8am to 5pm daily     The arrangements on lifesaving services in other months and at other gazetted beaches will be announced separately. Swimmers should pay attention to safety when enjoying the fun of swimming, and should only go to beaches where lifesaving services are provided. Please do not enter the water when the red flag is hoisted.

     
    Ends/Friday, February 28, 2025Issued at HKT 11:46

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government announces appointments to Advisory Committee on Chinese Medicine Development Fund

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government announced today (February 28) the appointment of Ms Serena Lau Sze-wan as the Chairperson of the Advisory Committee on Chinese Medicine Development Fund, as well as the appointment of 16 new non-official members and the reappointment of nine incumbent non-official members to the Committee.
     
         The aforementioned appointments will take effect from March 1, 2025, for a term of two years.

         The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, welcomed the new Chairperson and members to the Committee. He also expressed gratitude to the outgoing Chairperson, Professor Douglas So Cheung-tak, for the Committee’s effective operation under his leadership over the past six years, making a valuable contribution to the development of the Chinese medicine (CM) sector. Professor Lo also thanked the outgoing members for their insights and contributions to the Committee during their tenure. 

         Officially launched in June 2019, the Chinese Medicine Development Fund (CMDF) is the first dedicated fund set up to support CM development, with the objective of enhancing the overall standard of the CM sector to promote the high-quality development of CM in Hong Kong on all fronts. Having regard to the needs of different stakeholders in the sector, the CMDF has launched various support programmes of different aspects to provide support in areas such as talent nurturing, quality enhancement, market development, public education as well as scientific research and innovation.

         As of the end of January this year, an accumulative total of more than 8 800 funding applications were approved by the CMDF, benefitting more than 3 million members of the sector, the general public and relevant organisations, including registered and listed Chinese medicine practitioners (CMPs), CM drug personnel, CM clinics, manufacturers and wholesalers of proprietary Chinese medicines (pCms), retailers and wholesalers of Chinese herbal medicine (Chm), CM-related organisations, local universities and education institutions. Major achievements of the CMDF are listed below: 
     
    • Talent nurturing: Close to 3 500 CMPs and CM drug personnel have received subsidies to attend CM professional training programmes for continuously upskilling their professional knowledge and ability. The CMDF has also supported programme providers to design and organise innovative training projects, benefiting over 41 300 practitioners. The CMDF has supported 85 CMPs and CM drug personnel to participate in the Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Talent Training Programme co-organised by the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Health Bureau to cater for the need of establishing a talent pool;
     
    • Quality enhancement: The CMDF has supported more than 550 CM clinics and 220 Chm retailers/wholesalers to upgrade their facilities and equipment with a view to enhancing service quality and the safety and quality control of CM drugs. The CMDF has also supported nearly 180 pCm manufacturers/wholesalers to engage consultancy services or technical support for over 760 pCm products, thereby levelling up the quality of Hong Kong-registered pCm products;

    • Market development: The CMDF has provided subsidies for 12 Hong Kong-registered pCm products for external use to be registered and sold on the Mainland through streamlined approval procedures to promote industry development;

    • Research and applied studies: The CMDF has supported the commencement of 72 CM research and applied studies projects which are instrumental in driving academic and clinical research as well as the professional and industry development of CM in Hong Kong; and
     
    • Publicity and promotion: The CMDF has supported more than 1 100 CM publicity and public education activities of various forms, targeting audiences such as kindergarten, primary and secondary school students, and elderly persons.

         The membership of the Committee with effect from March 1, 2025, is as follows:

    Chairperson
    ———–
    Ms Serena Lau Sze-wan

    Non-official members
    —————————
    *Mr Au Ho-ting
    #Dr Chris Chan Kam-wa
    #Professor Chen Haiyong
    #Ms Rosanna Choi Yi-tak
    *Mr William Chung Wai-lim
    #Mr Fong Wai-leuk
    #Dr Gan Pei-tzeng
    #Ms Ada Ho Ching-ying
    #Dr Ku Ping-yui
    #Dr Kwok Tsz-kin
    #Mr Dominic Lam Chun-hong
    *Mr Lam Kar-yeung
    *Miss Anita Lee Yan-kwan
    #Ms Catherine Leung Chau-yung
    *Mr Samuel Li Hin-yeung
    *Mr Ling Kwan-yee
    #Mr Ling Wai-man
    *Mrs Vivian Mak Tang Wai-man
    #Professor Anderson Shum Ho-cheung
    *Dr Timothy Tam Tin-lok
    *Mr Sky Tang Man-chun
    #Dr Tse Man-li
    #Dr Tung Shong
    #Mr Harry Yeung Kwok-chun
    #Professor Jerry Yeung Wing-fai

    Ex-officio members
    ——————–
    Representative(s) from the Health Bureau
    Representative(s) from the Department of Health
    Representative(s) from the Hospital Authority
    Representative(s) from the Innovation and Technology Commission 
     
    Note:
    # New appointees
    * Reappointees

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience – Professor Carlos Montes, Cambridge Business School

    Source: Government of India

    Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience – Professor Carlos Montes, Cambridge Business School

    UPI transactions in month of January, 2025 surpassed 16.99 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎23.48 lakh crore, marking the highest number recorded in any month

    Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 11:01PM by PIB Delhi

    Prof. Carlos Montes, who is on a tour to India for attending and speaking at the NXT event at the Bharat Mandapam tomorrow, was briefed about the working and achievements of UPI system, today.

    Prof. Carlos leads the Innovation Hub for Prosperity at the Cambridge University Business School.

    A presentation on UPI was given by the DFS and NPCI Team to Prof. Carlos Montes about the functioning,  success and trends of UPI in India. In the briefing, senior officers  from the Department of Financial Services (DFS),  M/o Finance including Shri  Sudhir Shyam    (Economic Adviser) and Shri  Jignesh Solanki (Director)  were present among  others.

    Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an opportunity to other countries to learn from the Indian experience and get ideas on how to adopt it in their own countries, said Professor Carlos Montes, Lead Innovation Hub, University of Cambridge Business School 

    For the first time, UPI transactions in the month of January, 2025 surpassed 16.99 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎23.48 lakh crore marking the highest number recorded in any month.

    After the demonstration, Prof. Montes said that he was glad to see the success of the UPI payment system. The growth of UPI shows that the government is making sure that the technology that they develop is user friendly for citizens, and that there is a regular and constant innovation in the same which explains the high adoption rate of UPI in India, Prof. Montes added. He further said that it  also has potential for other countries to learn from the experience and get ideas on how to adopt it in their own countries.

    For FY 2023-24, the digital payments landscape has demonstrated remarkable expansion. UPI remains the cornerstone of India’s digital payment ecosystem contributing to 80% of the retail payments across the country. The total transaction volume exceeded 131 billion and the value exceeded ₹‎200 lakh crore for the FY 2023-24. Its ease of use, combined with a growing network of participating banks and fintech platforms, has made UPI the preferred mode of real-time payments for millions of users across the country.

    As of Jan, 2025, 80+ UPI Apps , 641 banks  are currently live on UPI ecosystem. In FY 24-25 (till Jan, 2025), the P2M transactions contribute 62.35% and P2P transactions contribute 37.65% of the overall UPI volume. The contribution of P2M transactions reached 62.35% in Jan, 2025 where 86% of these transactions are upto a value of INR 500. This indicates the trust that UPI enjoys among citizens for making low value payments.

    UPI: Transactions (by Volume in mn) for Jan’2025

     

     

    UPI Global Expansion:

    Shri Sudhir Shyam, Economic Adviser at Department of Financial Services (DFS) said that India’s digital payments revolution is extending beyond its borders. UPI is rapidly expanding globally, enabling seamless cross-border transactions for Indians traveling abroad. Currently, UPI is live in over 7 countries, including key markets such as [UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius], allowing Indians to make payments internationally. This expansion will further bolster remittance flows, improve financial inclusion, and elevate India’s stature in the global financial landscape.

    Sh. Sundar also said that some other countries have also shown interest in UPI.

    Demonstration of UPI

    Sh. Jignesh Solanki added that while volume of total online transactions have increased massively over the years, the share is taken by UPI mainly due to ease and low cost of the transactions. Government is focussed on bringing new innovations that will help UPI expand in uncovered areas as well.

    The session ended with a small demonstration of working of UPI to the delegation as well.

    ******

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2106794) Visitor Counter : 23

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Strengthening India-EU Cooperation: WCD Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi Meets European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness & Crisis Management, Ms.Hadja Lahbib

    Source: Government of India

    Strengthening India-EU Cooperation: WCD Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi Meets European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness & Crisis Management, Ms.Hadja Lahbib

    Meeting marked a significant step towards reinforcing India-EU ties in promoting policies for women empowerment and collaborative efforts for the welfare of women and children

    Posted On: 27 FEB 2025 10:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, met with Ms. Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, today at Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi. The meeting was part of the high-level visit of the President of the European Commission, Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, who is accompanied by the College of Commissioners, comprising 26 Ministers, during their visit to India from 27th to 28th February 2025.

    During their discussions, Union  Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi and Commissioner Ms. Hadja Lahbib explored avenues to strengthen India-EU collaboration in the areas of women’s empowerment, and child welfare. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering inclusive policies that enhance the well-being of women and children, particularly those from vulnerable and marginalized communities.

    Smt. Annpurna Devi highlighted key initiatives of the Government of India, including Mission Shakti, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and various other schemes & programs aimed at financial and digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, and increasing women’s participation in decision-making and leadership roles. She emphasized India’s unwavering commitment to building a safe and inclusive society where women and children can thrive.

    Ms. Hadja Lahbib commended India’s progress in women empowerment and reiterated the European Union’s commitment to strengthening partnerships in this domain. She underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges related to women empowerment and crisis response.

    The meeting marked a significant step towards reinforcing India-EU ties in promoting policies for women empowerment and collaborative efforts for the welfare of women and children.

    Union  Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi also emphasized that India, under the visionary leadership of  Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is advancing with the vision of Women-Led Development to realize the goal of Viksit Bharat.

    ****

    SS/MS

    (Release ID: 2106793) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Deductions for Assisted Reproductive Service Expenses) Ordinance 2025 takes effect upon gazettal

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government published in the Gazette today (February 28) the Inland Revenue (Amendment) (Tax Deductions for Assisted Reproductive Service Expenses) Ordinance 2025 (Amendment Ordinance) to amend the Inland Revenue Ordinance to introduce a tax deduction for assisted reproductive (AR) service expenses under salaries tax and personal assessment, with immediate effect. The relevant bill was passed in the Legislative Council on third reading on February 19 this year. The tax deduction is applicable to qualifying AR service expenses paid starting from the year of assessment 2024/25.

         All AR services received for medical reasons are qualifying AR services for claiming the tax deduction, meaning the following two categories of persons are eligible to claim tax deduction for relevant expenses:

    (i) infertile couples or persons under specified circumstances, including persons undergoing sex selection of embryos to avoid sex-linked genetic diseases, or single persons continuing to receive a procedure where gametes were, or an embryo was, placed in the body of a woman pursuant to the procedure when they were the parties to a marriage; and

    (ii) cancer patients or any other patients who may be rendered infertile as a result of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or other medical treatment.

         Expenses paid by a taxpayer, by the taxpayer’s spouse (who is not living apart from the taxpayer), or by both of them for the qualifying AR services are allowable deductions for the taxpayer. The maximum amount of deduction allowable for a year of assessment is $100,000. For married taxpayers, the maximum amount of deduction allowable for both the taxpayer and the spouse is $100,000 in total.

         The Inland Revenue Department may request the taxpayer to provide the Proof of Qualifying AR Service Expenses in support of the deduction claimed. The Government has published a standard form of the Proof, which is available on the website of the Council on Human Reproductive Technology (CHRT) (www.chrt.org.hk/english/publications/files/form_of_proof.pdf). For members of the public who have paid for the abovementioned qualifying AR service expenses on or after April 1 last year (regardless of whether such services were received in the current year of assessment), and intend to claim tax deductions for such expenses, they may now obtain the Proof retrospectively from centres holding an artificial insemination by husband licence, a treatment licence or a storage licence issued by the CHRT (licensed centres). The Proof should be signed by a registered medical practitioner who holds clinical responsibility for the relevant reproductive technology procedure, certifying the date and amount of qualifying AR service expenses paid by the taxpayers for their tax deduction claims.

         Members of the public may visit the Inland Revenue Department’s website (www.ird.gov.hk/eng/tax/ars.htm) for more information on tax deductions for AR service expenses. Information on the licensed centres is available on the CHRT’s website (www.chrt.org.hk/english/licensed/licensed.html).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –