NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Chief Officer of NTES appointed

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Services (NTFES) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Wayne Snell as Chief Officer of NT Emergency Service (NTES), following an extensive merit-based selection process.

    Mr Snell’s appointment brings stability and renewed energy to NTES, particularly following its transition to NTFES in 2024.

    With over 35 years of emergency management and leadership experience, Mr Snell has held senior management roles both nationally and internationally for more than 20 years. His career includes prominent positions at the Australian Civil Military Centre, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), and as Commander of the New South Wales State Emergency Service, State Operations.

    Additionally, Mr Snell has worked with leading state, national, and international policing organisations, including INTERPOL and the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

    His qualifications span emergency management, human resources, law enforcement, training, fire investigation, and forensic science.

    Mr Snell succeeds Ms Fleur O’Connor, who has made invaluable contributions to NTES during her time as Chief Officer. NTFES thanks Ms O’Connor for her dedication and service and wishes her all the best.

    Quotes from Commissioner, NT Fire and Emergency Services, Andrew Warton:

    “I am pleased to welcome Wayne into the role of Chief Officer with NTES. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience from his extensive career in emergency management both in Australia and internationally.”
    “I also want to express my sincere thanks to Ms. Fleur O’Connor for her significant contributions to the service.”

    Quotes from incoming Chief Officer, NTES, Mr Wayne Snell:

    “It is an honour to join the NT Emergency Service at such a pivotal moment, as it transitions into the NFES standalone agency.”

    “My focus will be on ensuring the safety of our communities, supporting our dedicated staff and volunteers, and strengthening our operational capabilities to respond effectively across the Territory.”

    “I look forward to bringing my leadership and experience to the Northern Territory and collaborating with the NTES team and the broader NTFES agency to enhance our community safety and capability.”

    Media contact
    Rickie Abraham

    8923 9803 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Britain need to strengthen dialogue, communication

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, co-chairs the 10th China-UK Strategic Dialogue with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy in London, Britain, on Feb. 13, 2025. [Photo/Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs]

    China and Britain need to strengthen dialogue and communication, said visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in London on Thursday when he co-chaired the 10th China-UK Strategic Dialogue with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China and Britain are different in system, history and culture, so it is only natural that there are some differences and disagreements.

    What is important is to establish an objective and rational understanding, and strengthen dialogue and communication in the spirit of mutual respect, he said.

    China regards Britain as an important strategic partner, stands ready to make good plans for high-level exchanges in the next stage, and deepen practical cooperation in various fields to promote a fresh outlook in bilateral relations in the new year, wang noted.

    China and Britain are both permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. Under the current circumstances, China and Britain should showcase their responsibility as major countries, practice multilateralism, support free trade, promote political settlement of hotspot issues, and jointly promote world peace and stability, he said.

    Wang also elaborated on China’s position on issues related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and others.

    The two sides exchanged in-depth views on the Ukraine crisis. Wang explained China’s position in a comprehensive manner, stressing that China has always been guided by “the four points about what must be done” put forward by President Xi Jinping, and called for “no expansion of the battlefields, no escalation of hostilities, and no fanning flames.”

    Wang said China welcomes all efforts committed to peace talks and supports the building of a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture, to ultimately realize long-term peace and stability in Europe. He added China is willing to work with all parties, including the European side, to continue to play a constructive role in this regard.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Peace by chocolate: One Syrian refugee family’s journey to sweet success

    Source: United Nations 2

    “War can kill anything in a person, but it cannot kill values ​​and hope. Syrians are a naturally happy people, and we aspire to live in a spirit of giving, generosity and hospitality.”

    Just desserts

    With these words, Tareq Hadhad described to UN News the difficult journey his family took from the Syrian capital to the remote Canadian city of Antigonish.

    The Hadhads are a long-established Damascene family and from it came judges, engineers and doctors for generations. But, what they are best known for is chocolate, a legacy that Mr. Hadhad’s father, Issam, built in 1986.

    That year, the senior Mr. Hadhad decided to leave mechanical engineering and start making chocolate despite the fact that there were only a few well-known companies in the Middle East in that field at the time.

    Chocolate for good

    The younger Mr. Hadhad said his father wanted to be in a field “that made people around him happy” as frustration prevailed among Syria’s youth after the events of 1982, when the Hafez al Assad regime committed the Hama massacre.

    Founded “from scratch”, the company grew to employ hundreds of people.

    In 2008, it began exporting to several countries in the Middle East and Europe in line the senior Mr. Hadhad’s aspiration: to “deliver the message of the Syrians all over the world” through a universal product that everyone knew and loved, his son explained, adding that the goal was not only to increase sales, but to embark on several development and relief projects in Syria.

    “My father believed that if you are successful in your life, you have a responsibility to raise others to success,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    Peace by Chocolate

    Isam Hadhad makes chocolate in the factory.

    Time for survival

    Before 2013, the entire family of more than 60 people lived in one building chockful of memories just south of the Al-Midan area in old Damascus, standing their ground for two years after the war began.

    “I lost many members of my family,” Mr. Hadhad said. “My sister’s husband was arrested, tortured and then killed in prison. Many of my cousins ​​ disappeared, some of whom we still know nothing about and some of whom were summarily executed.”

    The chocolate factory was targeted in airstrike in 2012 and the following year, as Mr. Hadhad and his brother were walking in a street in downtown Damascus, a missile fell nearby.

    “Amid the dust, I thought my brother was dead,” he said. “I picked him up and ran home. When I got there, I told the family this is not the time to build a business or study. This is a time for survival.”

    ‘We are not victims’

    The family made the excruciating decision to seek refuge in Lebanon, leaving everything behind. The following year, they learned that the regime’s forces had “looted their homes, burned them down and bombed them to cover up the crime”.

    “There are many Syrians who have lost much more than us,” Mr. Hadhad said. “We are not victims. We are victors regardless of the outcome because we were able to survive the war with our lives and start our lives again.”

    The family registered with the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, and moved many times in Lebanon until they settled in the city of Sidon. While Mr. Hadhad said the Lebanese people were very hospitable to the Syrians, because no official agreements had been signed, they could not work, rent homes or go to school.

    Refugees giving back

    Lebanon, as a country of four to five million people at the time, received more than a million Syrian refugees in a very short period of time.

    “That’s equivalent to 10 to 15 million American refugees entering Canada in a year or two,” he said. “Of course, the country wouldn’t be able bear that burden. But, Lebanon absorbed that burden over 13 years.”

    Indeed, the burden of the war wasn’t just on Syria and the Syrian people, but on the peoples of the entire region, including the Jordanians, Lebanese, Turkish and Iraqis.

    However, the Hadhad family was determined “at every stage of our refugee story to prove to the world that we can give to the host community and not take”.

    For his part, Mr. Hadhad spent most of his days in Lebanon volunteering with several relief organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNHCR, providing his expertise in healthcare to both Syrian refugees and their Lebanese hosts alike, having reached the final stages of his medical studies before leaving Syria.

    Canada bound

    The family’s goal was to return to Syria, but when that seemed like a distant dream and their fears grew for the future of the young children who had missed years of education, they began applying for resettlement in other countries.

    In 2015, despite many interviews at embassies from around the world, not a single one would accept them, Mr. Hadhad said.

    “Late that year, things changed,” he said. “The new Canadian Government had pledged to receive about 25,000 Syrian refugees, and my family was one of them.”

    Peace by Chocolate

    The Hadhad family celebrating Canada Day.

    UN intervention

    The UN was the turning point in the Hadhad family’s story. Without being identified as refugees by the UNHCR, they would not have been able to even apply for resettlement in Canada.

    The Canadian embassy conducts cross-checks through the UNHCR, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) also played a key role in their resettlement process.

    But, the major credit goes to Canadians themselves. The tragic drowning of toddler Alan Kurdi and his family in the summer of 2015 while trying to reach Europe had spread throughout the globe, the cause of Syrian refugees became a global cause.

    Canadian hospitality, one family at a time

    Community leaders in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, home to 5,000 residents and 5,000 students at St. Francis Xavier University, raised enough money to host one Syrian family that matched the Hadhads, and so they sponsored them without knowing their names, the way they looked or even their backgrounds.

    “The community in Antigonish are pioneers in their DNA, and when they saw they could make a difference, they started the process of registering an organization called SAFE (Syrian Antigonish Families Embrace),” Mr. Hadhad said.

    “I don’t know how people who are almost 8,000km away from Syria or Lebanon could be so concerned with our ability to restart our lives and to see my siblings and my sister Alaa’s children go to school. I did not expect that there would be human beings among us on this planet with such a spirit of giving because we lived through wars and saw how people kill each other.”

    He said he came to Antigonish, on the eastern coast of Canada, because of them and because they believed that he, as a person, had the same values, dignity, respect, rights and freedoms that apply to anyone in Canada.

    One peace won’t hurt

    This act left a huge mark on him and prompted the family to do everything in their power to give back to the Canadian community “that believed in us and our humanity and tried to support us in every way”, he said.

    “This community restored our faith in humanity. Regardless of the colour of your skin, your religion or where you were born, you are qualified to be a human being.”

    It was also the community “that gave us the idea of ​peace with its kindness and generosity that match our values”, he added.

    Peace by Chocolate

    The original factory shed built by members of the community and located on the family’s property next to their home.

    ‘Peace by Chocolate’

    To prove that nothing is impossible with hope, the family spotted a niche job opportunity to build on the legacy they were forced to leave behind in Syria. While it took decades to register their chocolate company in Syria due to government corruption, it took only a few weeks in Canada.

    From there, the road to success began on all levels.

    “Our project did not start for a purely economic reason, nor did it start for a purely humanitarian purpose; it combined the two,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    “That is why we named it Peace by Chocolate. Many companies around the world aim to make profits, but our goal was to support the community and at the same time to try to grow the company to become one of the largest companies in Canada.”

    ‘Canadians pull together’

    A few months after the opening of Peace by Chocolate in 2016, wildfires swept through Fort McMurray in Alberta in Canada’s mid-west. The Hadhads were watching the news as Canadians lost everything as their homes burned down, forcing them to seek refuge at Canadian Red Cross shelters.

    “Canadians always pull together, so we felt a responsibility to give back to the people who welcomed us with such warmth and kindness,” Mr Hadhad said, explaining that they launched a fundraising campaign, donating profits from Peace for Chocolate to help aid organizations.

    In September of that year, at the UN Leaders’ Summit on Refugees in New York, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted the Hadhad’s story and their contribution to the relief efforts in their new country just months after their arrival.

    Kindness pays off

    Since then, the Hadhad’s company has raised more than $655,000 to support relief projects for across Canada alongside 11 partnership agreements with such organizations as the Canadian Red Cross.

    “Thanks to the support of the Antigonish community and the country as a whole, we have been able to grow our company and have paid tens of millions in taxes to back into the Canadian economy,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    “Kindness pays off, and the best investment you can make is to be kind to others.”

    Peace by Chocolate is now the third largest employer in Antigonish, home to the company headquarters and factory. With the senior Mr. Hadhad as president and his son, Tareq, the CEO, the company has a branch in Halifax, the provincial capital, and its products are sold in more than a thousand stores across Canada.

    Mr. Hadhad said the Peace by Chocolate website has become the largest e-commerce platform in Canada’s Atlantic region, and it aspires to become the largest chocolate exporter in the country and to open branches in the United States, Japan and the Middle East.

    Peace by Chocolate

    Tareq and his father Isam meet Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for the first time.

    Refugee to employer

    Despite the major differences that separate the family from their new community, what brought them together was “much stronger”, and they never felt like outcasts at any time or that they are obstacles to becoming part of that community.

    Mr. Hadhad said any successful refugee or migration story has two sides. There is, of course, a major role for the host community to play, but “the main responsibility lies primarily with the migrant or refugee”.

    “No one is going to knock on your door and ask about your story or your ambitions for the future. The first step always comes from the migrant or refugee themselves to tell their story,” he said.

    That is exactly what he did. He spoke with the local newspaper shortly after arriving and made the front page. The word spread. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) sent a correspondent to visit the Hadhad’s every month to follow up on their integration.

    A sense of belonging

    In addition to the warm welcome from Canadians themselves, stability was a major factor in the family’s integration, with the Hadhads granted permanent residency upon arrival.

    In many countries, as a refugee, “you can’t think beyond an hour, a week or a month because your situation is always temporary,” Mr. Hadhad explained.

    “What Canada also gave us was ambition for sustainability,” he said. “You can think 10 or 20 years into the future or even for the rest of your life. You can build projects and plan. Canada gave us a sense of belonging and citizenship even before we became Canadian citizens.”

    He said he has the utmost respect for “the Canadian brand” and what it stands for.

    “Regardless of what politicians, individuals or economists do, I am proud to belong to this great country and to be a Canadian citizen today.”

    UNHCR/Darren Calabrese

    Tareq Haddad with his family and friends in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for his citizenship ceremony in January 2020.

    ‘More than a miracle’

    After more than 13 years of war, destruction and displacement, Mr. Hadhad described the fall of the Bashar al Assad regime as “more than a miracle” as many Syrians had lost hope of getting rid of the oppressive regime that had terrorised the country for more than 50 years.

    The future of Syria seems “very bright” to him, thanks to the efforts of its heroic people who refused to leave Syria and those who sought refuge in other communities around the world and built strong relationships there, he said.

    “My city, Damascus, is the oldest city in the world. It has survived much greater disasters than what happened to it in the past 50 years,” he said. “God willing, we are on the road to recovery, and I have a strong belief that the Syrian people will overcome all the difficulties of the war and build a country that we can all be proud of.”

    After 12 years in exile, he is now looking forward to visiting the country soon to meet those loved ones he left behind, including one of his sisters.

    Pride and duty to the homeland

    Supporting the Canadian community was a duty to pay back those that embraced the Hadhads in their hour of need, and now the family is focusing on its moral obligation to help their homeland.

    From working on licensing in the Middle East to be closer to collecting donations through Peace by Chocolate sales, the Hadhads aim to support relief organizations and those helping Syrian refugees return home. Efforts are also underway to connect the Syrian-Canadian community by presenting models of projects in Syria that it can support.

    “It is an honour for us to contribute to rebuilding it again and to support our Syrian people,” Mr. Hadhad said.

    Peace by Chocolate

    The Hadhad family and many supporters join them in the opening of their factory in Antigonish in 2017.

    Creating a happy ending

    In a message to people facing hardship and forced expulsion, Mr. Hadhad stressed that “believing in values, in oneself and in a bright future is very important, but what is more important is fighting despair in all its forms”.

    “I advise anyone anywhere around the world looking for an opportunity – if you don’t find it, create it yourself,” he said.

    “As long as we are able to continue our lives, we are able to create new opportunities for ourselves and our new communities. We must not forget to give back to the countries that opened their doors to us, and at the same time be proud of where we came from, because we are ultimately ambassadors for our culture, our countries, and our values.”

    Mr. Hadhad cited author Mary Robinson: “nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stolen vehicle ends with arrest in the bag

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    The driver of a stolen vehicle has landed in court after a search of the vehicle he was driving found a number of zip-lock bags containing methamphetamine.

    At about 10.25pm, Police were alerted to a stolen vehicle travelling on Dawson Road, Ōtara.

    Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says officers located the vehicle parked in a driveway and quickly took the driver and passenger into custody.

    “A search of the vehicle has located 16 grams of methamphetamine, split into zip-lock bags as well as electronic scales.

    “Though the quantity of drugs may not be considered large on a national scale, we know all too well how destructive methamphetamine is to communities.

    “We are committed to holding offenders to account and delivering on our intent to the community safe.”

    A 35-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with possession for supply of methamphetamine and receiving property.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister acknowledges outgoing Director-General

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown has today acknowledged the resignation of Director-General of Health and Chief Executive of the Ministry of Health, Dr Diana Sarfati, and thanked her for her service.

    “Diana was appointed in November 2022, having acted in the role from July 2022. She played a key role as the government’s chief health advisor and steward of New Zealand’s public health system during the health system reforms. 

    “Prior to this, Diana was National Director of Cancer at the Ministry of Health where she oversaw the implementation of the Cancer Control Agency, before being appointed its Chief Executive and National Director.

    “Diana has had a long, distinguished career in health as a public health physician, cancer epidemiologist, and health services researcher.

    “An experienced and respected leader, Diana has led the Ministry of Health during a challenging time as the last government’s reforms were being implemented.

    “I acknowledge Diana’s decision to step down from the role and thank her for her commitment to ensuring the health system delivers for New Zealanders.

    “I wish her all the very best for the future,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Significant milestones at North Shore’s Tōtara Haumaru Hospital

    Source: New Zealand Government

    This week marks a significant step in the delivery of healthcare services for the northern region with the opening of the final ward of Tōtara Haumaru, the country’s newest hospital facility on Auckland’s North Shore Hospital campus, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. “This facility has a critical role in reducing waitlists for Auckland’s fast-growing and ageing population. “It is encouraging to see progress already being made, with more than 2,500 New Zealanders having had their elective surgery at the hospital since it opened on 1 July 2024. “Acute and elective endoscopy activity is also ramping up, with 2,500 endoscopies completed at the new facility in addition to the elective surgeries. “The hospital has allowed for the expansion of some regional services, including vascular and plastic surgery, allowing local patients to have their surgery closer to home. “It has also enabled the regional expansion of robotically-assisted surgeries, resulting in a 40 per cent reduction in length of stay, and fewer complications and quicker recovery for patients. “The opening of the fifth and final ward this week increases capacity for women’s health and gynaecology services from 15 to 20 patients, delivering improved patient outcomes in a significantly enhanced environment.  “Ensuring that all New Zealanders can access timely, quality healthcare is a priority for the Government. “You can’t manage what you don’t measure, which is why the Government restored five key health targets, including a target of 95 per cent of patients to wait less than four months for a first specialist assessment and elective treatment by 2030.”While there is significant progress needed to meet these targets, I am pleased that patients in the region and further afield are benefiting from this state-of-the-art facility. This number will only grow as theatre capacity and resourcing continues to scale-up over time. “As Minister of Health, my focus is and always will be improving patient outcomes and ensuring access to timely, quality healthcare. “Reducing waitlists so that New Zealanders have shorter wait times for appointments and surgery is a key part of that,” Mr Brown says. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tech and Environment – Samsung New Zealand Delivers on Commitment to Tackle the Pacific Islands’ E-Waste Crisis

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung ships over 38 tons of e-waste to New Zealand for responsible recycling

    AUCKLAND, NZ – February 14, 2025 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is proud to announce that it has fulfilled its commitment to addressing the growing e-waste crisis in the Pacific Islands. In partnership with Blue Orca and Echo, Samsung New Zealand has successfully facilitated the transportation and recycling of over 38 tonnes of end-of-life appliances, electrical, and electronic equipment, collected across the Pacific Islands.

    In 2024, Samsung New Zealand engaged Blue Orca to assess e-waste challenges across five Pacific Islands – Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands, and Timor-Leste. The assessment revealed a lack of local recycling infrastructure, raising concerns about the environmental impact of unmanaged e-waste in the region.

    “The absence of local recycling options and the severe environmental consequences outlined in the report pushed us to take action,” said Shannon Watts, Marketing Director, Samsung Electronics New Zealand. “Through our collaboration with Blue Orca and recycling partner Echo, we’ve been able to drive meaningful change and address the critical e-waste issue facing Pacific Island communities. This initiative helps protect the environment and supports local communities by ensuring responsible recycling of electronic waste.”

    Samsung, Blue Orca, and Echo achieved a significant milestone by collecting and transporting 38,502 kg of e-waste from Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands to New Zealand for recycling. This effort resulted in the prevention of 228 kg of toxic metals from contaminating the soil and avoided 11,042 kg of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the protection of the environment and benefiting local communities.

    “This initiative is a crucial step toward mitigating the environmental impact of e-waste in the Pacific Islands. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration between Samsung, Blue Orca, and Echo,” added Watts. “We’re proud to have played a role in diverting a significant volume of end-of-life electronics from landfills, ensuring they are now being recycled ethically and responsibly.”

    This Pacific Islands recycling program further supports Samsung New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to its global Everyday Sustainability Environmental Strategy, as part of the company’s efforts to contribute to tackle climate change. Over the past two years, Samsung New Zealand, in collaboration with Echo, has successfully recycled more than 73 tonnes of e-waste through local collection drives in Auckland. These initiatives empower New Zealanders to take responsibility for recycling their electronic waste, ensuring that it is handled responsibly and sustainably.

    E-Waste Collection Breakdown:

    Total e-waste collected: 38,502 kg

    Greenhouse gas emissions avoided: 11,042 kg

    Toxic metals diverted from landfill: 228 kg

    Island Breakdown:

    Fiji:

    • 4,328 kg of e-waste collected

    • 1,241 kg of greenhouse gas emissions avoided

    • 25.6 kg of toxic metals diverted from landfill

    Tonga:

    • 13,863 kg of e-waste collected

    • 3,976 kg of greenhouse gas emissions avoided

    • 81.99 kg of toxic metals diverted from landfill

    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

    Cook Islands:

    • 7,400 kg of e-waste collected

    • 2,122 kg of greenhouse gas emissions avoided

    • 43.77 kg of toxic metals diverted from landfill.

    About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

    Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fireworks and open air fires prohibited in Strath Taieri zone

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has declared a prohibited fire season in Otago’s Strath Taieri zone from 8am on Saturday 15 February, until further notice.
    A prohibited fire season means no open-air fires are allowed and all fire permits are suspended.
    Fireworks will also be prohibited in Strath Taieri, which is possible under Section 52 of the Fire and Emergency Act.
    Strath Taieri is a large area of land in Otago which includes the Taieri River, the Rock and Pillar Range and the town of Middlemarch.
    Fire and Emergency Otago District Manager Phil Marsh says the area has an abundance of grass and scrub and experiences hot dry summers.
    “The current dry conditions are expected to continue, with blustery westerly winds forecast for the remainder of summer and into autumn,” he says.
    “This combination presents a very high fire risk, as dry grass and scrub can ignite easily and fire will rapidly spread.
    “As part of our ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of wildfire, we are also putting a ban on fireworks.
    “It only takes one spark to start a wildfire. The risk is far too high in these dry and windy conditions.”
    The Strath Taieri zone includes Te Papanui Conservation Park, home to a huge variety of native plants and animals.
    “We are urging everybody to do their part to protect this area from wildfire,” Phil Marsh says.
    “Along with the ban on fireworks, we ask people to be vigilant with other heat or spark-generating activities.
    “Using machinery or power tools and parking or driving vehicles near dry vegetation have the potential to start a wildfire that will spread quickly. You should avoid these activities on hot, windy days.
    “If you are camping in the area, always set up your gas cooker on a stable surface and away from long, dry grass.
    “Know the risks, and always check the local fire danger at www.checkitsalright.nz.”
    Please take extra care this weekend as the fire danger will be elevated in Strath Taieri and across Otago. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Funded annual health checks would prevent 100+ deaths a year – IHC

    Source: IHC New Zealand

    Funded annual health checks for people with intellectual disability will prevent more than 100 deaths a year and significantly reduce hospital admissions, saving $16.5 million annually – more than enough to cover the $13 million cost of the checks themselves, says IHC New Zealand.

    In a New Zealand Medical Journal article released today, IHC Advocate Shara Turner says it’s unacceptable that intellectually disabled New Zealanders should die much earlier than other New Zealanders, for preventable reasons.

    “Intellectually disabled people have the highest mortality risk of any group, with a life expectancy of up to 22 years shorter than the general population,” says Shara.

    “They are 2.7 times more likely to be admitted to the emer­gency department, 3.6 times more likely to be admitted to hospital for a condition that could have been avoided and have higher rates of lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer and mental health conditions.

    “We are urging the Government to see that annual health checks could lower the risk of early mortality for intellectually disabled people by up to 35 percent.”

    IHC’s own cost-benefit analysis using Treasury’s CBAx tool for healthcare costs shows that annual health checks would be fiscally positive and viable.

    Shara says there is robust international evidence about the benefits of the annual health check for this population.

    “Universal health checks for intellectually disabled people have been implemented in Australia and the United Kingdom since 2007, providing a proven and pragmatic model that could be adapted for Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Shara. “These checks would not only improve health outcomes but also relieve pressure on emergency departments and cut healthcare costs.”

    “Now is the time to act – investing in annual health checks can help close the health gap and ensure better, longer lives for one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most vulnerable populations.”

    About IHC New Zealand

    IHC New Zealand advocates for the rights, inclusion and welfare of all people with intellectual disabilities and supports them to live satisfying lives in the community. IHC provides advocacy, volunteering, events, membership associations and fundraising. It is part of the IHC Group, which also includes IDEA Services, Choices NZ and Accessible Properties.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: In the quest to appease Israel, the media undermine our basic rights

    In its eagerness to appease supporters of Israel, the media is happy to ride roughshod over due process and basic rights. It’s damaging Australia’s (and New Zealand’s?) democracy.

    COMMENTARY: By Bernard Keane

    Two moments stand out so far from the Federal Court hearings relating to Antoinette Lattouf’s sacking by the ABC, insofar as they demonstrate how power works in Australia — and especially in Australia’s media.

    The first is how the ABC’s senior management abandoned due process in the face of a sustained lobbying effort by a pro-Israel group to have Lattouf taken off air, under the confected basis she was “antisemitic”.

    Managing director David Anderson admitted in court that there was a “step missing” in the process that led to her sacking — in particular, a failure to consult with the ABC’s HR area, and a failure to discuss the attacks on Lattouf with Lattouf herself, before kicking her out.

    To this, it might be added, was acting editorial director Simon Melkman’s advice to management that Lattouf had not breached any editorial policies.

    Anderson bizarrely singled out Lattouf’s authorship, alongside Cameron Wilson, of a Crikey article questioning the narrative that pro-Palestinian protesters had chanted “gas the Jews”, as basis for his concerns about her, only for one of his executives to point out the article was “balanced and journalistically sound“.

    That is, by the ABC’s own admission, there was no basis to sack Lattouf and the sacking was conducted improperly. And yet, here we are, with the ABC tying itself in absurd knots — no such race as Lebanese, indeed — spending millions defending its inappropriate actions in response to a lobbying campaign.

    The second moment that stands out is a decision by the court early in the trial to protect the identities of those calling for Lattouf’s sacking.

    Abandoned due process
     The campaign that the group rolled out prompted the ABC chair and managing director to immediately react — and the ABC to abandon due process and procedural fairness. Yet the court protects their identities.

    The reasoning — that the identities behind the complaints should be protected for their safety — may or may not be based on reasonable fears, but it’s the second time that institutions have worked to protect people who planned to undermine the careers of people — specifically, women — who have dared to criticise Israel.

    The first was when some members — a minority — of a WhatsApp group supposedly composed of pro-Israel “creatives” discussed how to wreck the careers of, inter alia, Clementine Ford and Lauren Dubois for their criticism of Israel.

    The publishing of the identities of this group was held by both the media and the political class to be an outrageous, antisemitic act of “doxxing”, and the federal government rushed through laws to make such publications illegal.

    No mention of making the act of trying to destroy people’s careers because they hold different political views — or, cancel culture, as the right likes to call it — illegal.

    Whether it’s courts, politicians or the media, it seems that the dice are always loaded in favour of those wanting to crush criticism of Israel, while its victims are left to fend for themselves.

    Human rights lawyer and fighter against antisemitism Sarah Schwartz has been repeatedly threatened with (entirely vexatious) lawsuits by Israel supporters for her criticism of Israel, and her discussion of the exploitation of Australian Jews by Peter Dutton.

    Targeted by another News Corp smear campaign
    She’s been targeted by yet another News Corp smear campaign, based on nothing more than a wilfully misinterpreted slide. She has no government or court rushing to protect her.

    Meanwhile, Peter Lalor, one of Australia’s finest sports journalists (and I write as someone who can’t abide most sports journalism) lost his job with SEN because he, too, dared to criticise Israel and call out the Palestinian genocide. No-one’s rushing to his aide, either.

    No powerful institutions are weighing in to safeguard his privacy, or protect him from the consequences of his opinions.

    The individual cases add up to a pattern: Australian institutions, and especially its major media institutions, will punish you for criticising Israel.

    Pro-Israel groups will demand you be sacked, they will call for your career to be destroyed. Those groups will be protected.

    Media companies will ride roughshod over basic rights and due process to comply with their demands. You will be smeared and publicly vilified on completely spurious bases. Politicians will join in, as Jason Clare did with the campaign against Schwartz and as Chris Minns is doing in NSW, imposing hate speech laws that even Christian groups think are a bad idea.

    Damaging the fabric of democracy
    This is how the campaign to legitimise the Palestinian genocide and destroy critics of the Netanyahu government has damaged the fabric of Australia’s democracy and the rule of law.

    The basic rights and protections that Australians should have under a legal system devoted to preventing discrimination can be stripped away in a moment, while those engaged in destroying people’s careers and livelihoods are protected.

    Ill-advised laws are rushed in to stifle freedom of speech. Australian Jews are stereotyped as a politically convenient monolith aligned with the Israeli government.

    The experience of Palestinians themselves, and of Arab communities in Australia, is minimised and erased. And the media are the worst perpetrators of all.

    Bernard Keane is Crikey’s politics editor. Before that he was Crikey’s Canberra press gallery correspondent, covering politics, national security and economics. First published by Crikey.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Parliament has passed landmark election donation laws. They may be a ‘stich up’ but they also improve Australia’s democracy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joo-Cheong Tham, Professor, Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne

    Federal parliament has passed the biggest changes to Australia’s electoral funding laws in decades.

    The Albanese government’s Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Reform) Bill 2024 cleared the Senate on Wednesday night after just two hours of debate on amendments agreed to earlier by the Coalition. In blatant disregard for democracy, the government refused to refer the bill to a parliamentary committee for proper scrutiny.

    The amendments fail to address numerous deficiencies in the original bill that was introduced last November. Transparency has been wound back and hollow contribution caps have been locked in.

    In significant respects, however, the package is an improvement on the status quo, which has seen unrestricted donations and spending flourish. So, too, secrecy.

    We need to penetrate the sound and fury of partisanship and assess the substance of these laws. This will yield a much more nuanced picture than conveyed by cross bench claims of a major party stitch up.

    Some improvement to transparency

    The government originally proposed lowering the disclosure threshold for donations from $16,000 to $1,000. The revised bill settles on a new threshold of $5,000.

    The amendments fail to plug a loophole that allows a donor to give separately to all of the branches attached to a political party if each individual contribution is just under the threshold. For example, a donor could spread almost $45,000 to the nine state and federal branches of the ALP without being required to declare the amounts.

    But the new laws will usher in near-real time disclosure and substantially reduce “dark money”, a seismic shift from the secrecy and lack of timeliness in the regime it replaces.

    Hollow donation caps

    Under the reforms, a series of contribution caps have been introduced to curb the influence of big money in politics.

    In my assessment of the original bill, I highlighted how the caps would prevent multi-million dollar contributions from cashed-up individuals.

    The amendments go further by closing a number of sizeable loopholes. Self financing candidates, such as Clive Palmer and Malcolm Turnbull will be subject to the contribution caps. The current exclusions for membership and affiliation fees to associated entities – “disguised donations” – will also be caught by the caps.

    But any positives are emphatically outweighed by the “annual gift cap” more than doubling to $50,000. The same “spreading” loophole that applies to the disclosure obligations would allow a donor to to give just shy of this amount to each of a party’s state and federal branches across the country. The major parties could reap up to almost $450,000 per annum from a single donor.

    And the “overall gift cap” on total donations made to political parties and candidates is a generous $1.6 million, which means large contributions will still be permissible under the new framework.

    The government has also failed to remove the patently unfair provisions relating to “nominated entities”, which are likely to be used by the major parties as investment vehicles.

    As the Victorian Electoral Review Expert Panel has rightly noted, such entities:

    provide some (parties) with significantly more funds, creating a risk that those (parties) drown out other voices.

    Election spending contained and fairer

    The spending caps in the new finance laws are fundamentally unaltered by the government’s amendments.

    The $800,000 per electorate limit, and $90 million per party nationally, will contain the “arms race” that has necessitated “big money” fundraising and fuelled unfair contests.

    However, the limits are set too high and will benefit the established parties due to the narrow scope of the spending caps in individual electorates. This means the major parties will be able to shift funding to must-win seats without being caught by the electorate caps.

    This shortcoming has been seized upon as clear evidence that Labor and the Liberals are seeking to kneecap Teal election campaigns. While having some force, these criticisms should be viewed in the context of the current situation where the major parties have an unfettered ability to direct spending to marginal seats, a situation which the Teals are ironically defending with their opposition to spending caps.

    The importance of public funding

    The new regime includes a substantial jump in public funding from $3.50 to $5 per vote.

    Crossbenchers, such as Kate Chaney, are opposed, to the increase, saying it will entrench the might of the majors while making it harder for new independents:

    The effect of increasing public funding is that political parties don’t have to fundraise because they’ve got their war chests. But any challengers do have to fundraise.

    While there is a clear risk of unfairness, the crossbench position throws the baby out with the bathwater. It romanticises the role of private funding, skating over the risks of corruption and undue influence via large donations.

    The public funding of political parties and candidates is warranted. But there should be a conversation about the design and scope of taxpayer support.

    The political finance laws could be made considerably fairer by fixing the structural bias that favours incumbents, including teal MPs. And they don’t need to be as generous given the large flows of private funding that will continue under the shallow contribution caps.

    Unfinished business

    Bad processes tend to make bad laws. The government’s actions have cast a pall of illegitimacy over its political finance regime. The new framework is unfair and ineffectual in significant ways and yet democracy enhancing in others.

    We are all trustees of democracy, with an obligation to protect and deepen democratic practices. An urgent task in that continuing struggle is to protect the strengths of these laws while jettisoning the elements that are egregiously bad.

    Joo-Cheong Tham has received funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Council of Trade Unions, European Trade Union Institute, International IDEA, the New South Wales Electoral Commission, the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption and the Victorian Electoral Commission. He is a Director of the Centre for Public Integrity; Expert Network Member of Climate Integrity; a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in Australia; and the Victorian Division Assistant Secretary (Academic Staff) of the National Tertiary Education Union.

    – ref. Parliament has passed landmark election donation laws. They may be a ‘stich up’ but they also improve Australia’s democracy – https://theconversation.com/parliament-has-passed-landmark-election-donation-laws-they-may-be-a-stich-up-but-they-also-improve-australias-democracy-249588

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: ​’Ne Zha 2′ hits staggering 10B yuan milestone, climbs global box office chart

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    After breaking all box office records in China, including hitting the 10 billion yuan ($1.37 billion) milestone on Thursday, the Chinese smash animated film “Ne Zha 2” has now set its sights on shattering records worldwide.

    The characters Ne Zha and Ao Bing are projected on the towers of the Tianfu International Financial Center in Chengdu, Sichuan province, Feb. 13, 2025. The film’s director and his company are based in Chengdu, and two cities in the province claim to be the birthplace of the Ne Zha legend. [Photo/China.org.cn]

    When the historic moment arrived for the film to become the first to surpass 10 billion yuan at China’s box office, it was more than a filmmaking achievement or cultural phenomenon — it was a source of national pride for Chinese filmmakers, the industry and the public. 

    The China Film Association promptly issued a congratulatory message, stating: “This film has created a box office miracle, promoting excellent traditional Chinese culture and the modern zeitgeist, innovating the form of contemporary Chinese cinema, showcasing the relentless artistic pursuit of Chinese filmmakers, and greatly boosting the film industry’s confidence. The glory of ‘Ne Zha 2’ is a highlight for Chinese cinema and, more importantly, a significant moment marking its rise from plateau to peak.”

    Directed by Yang Yu, better known as Jiaozi, the film follows the mythological figures Ne Zha and Ao Bing, who are reborn in bodies formed from lotuses after a catastrophe and must team up to face threats from vengeful dragon kings and a scheming god. It combines visually spectacular animation with a folklore-inspired narrative, delivering a blend of action, humor, heart and traditional Chinese culture. It involved five years of meticulous efforts from a 4,000-strong crew, as well as the combined forces of 138 Chinese animation and special effects companies.

    During the Spring Festival holiday, the film grossed nearly 5 billion yuan in seven days, but its momentum shows no signs of slowing, thanks to the enthusiasm of Chinese audiences. It surpassed the previous record holder “The Battle at Lake Changjin,” which took 5.77 billion yuan, on Feb. 6 to become the highest-grossing domestic film of all time. Since then, it has gone on to quickly set several other records. It is now the most-watched film ever by total viewers in Chinese box office history, with more than 200 million admissions registered by Feb. 13.

    For the premium large format market, IMAX reported Thursday that “Ne Zha 2” had earned 562 million yuan in IMAX box office revenue within just 15 days of its release, surpassing “Avengers: Endgame” to become the highest-grossing IMAX release ever in China.

    Audience members attend the premiere of “Ne Zha 2” in Hollywood, Los Angeles, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo courtesy of CMC Pictures]

    Meanwhile, “Ne Zha 2” has also broken several records on the world stage. According to Maoyan Pro, the film is now the highest-grossing film in a single market worldwide, surpassing the $936.66 million record set by “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” in North America. On Feb. 8, it became the world’s first film to break into the $1 billion club in a single market, showcasing the immense potential of the Chinese market.

    Besides setting the single-market record, it is also the third-fastest film to reach the $1 billion mark worldwide, achieving the feat in just 12 days, following “Avengers: Endgame” (five days) and “Avengers: Infinity War” (11 days). By Feb. 14, with its China-only total, it became the third-highest-grossing animated feature worldwide in history and has already climbed to 17th on the global box office chart, including both animated and live-action films.

    A trailer for “Ne Zha 2” is displayed in Times Square, New York, Feb. 6, 2025. [Photo courtesy of CMC Pictures]

    Closely following its staggering box office growth has become a daily source of interest and entertainment for many fans, while analysts, big data algorithms and AI models continue to revise their projections daily. The latest projection, released Tuesday night by Maoyan Pro, suggests the film could reach 16 billion yuan for its entire run in the Chinese mainland alone — a figure beyond even the wildest imagination of those in the Chinese film industry. If it manages to reach this milestone, it would become the highest-grossing animated film of all time and the fifth-highest-grossing film in history, behind only the two “Avatar” installments, “Avengers: Endgame” and “Titanic.” These achievements would be remarkable for a Chinese film in a ranking dominated by Hollywood juggernauts. Notably, all of this would be accomplished solely with its China total, without contributions from overseas markets, unlike other global top-grossers that rely heavily on international markets.

    The potential for the film’s worldwide earnings is also being unleashed. “Ne Zha 2” began its global rollout on Feb. 13 through distributor CMC Pictures in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea, followed by the United States and Canada on Feb. 14, with reports that most showings are selling out quickly. The film will also be released in other international territories, including Singapore, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Greece later this year.

    Performers stage a dragon dance outside the TCL Chinese Theatre at the premiere of “Ne Zha 2” in Hollywood, Los Angeles, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo courtesy of CMC Pictures]

    A grand North American premiere of “Ne Zha 2” was held at the fully packed landmark TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on Feb. 8, receiving rave reviews. Hollywood producer Robert King praised the film’s quality and scale, noting that Chinese films have made significant strides in storytelling in recent years. Georges Chamchoum, executive director of the Asian World Film Festival, expressed deep appreciation for the cultural evolution of Chinese cinema. Meanwhile, Oscar-winning producer Andre Morgan, known for producing “Million Dollar Baby,” described the movie as “unbelievable.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Timaru traffic delays from Monday, Evans St/SH1

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Drivers are reminded to allow extra time travelling on SH1 through Timaru over the next few months as work starts on a new Timaru District Council watermain near the Showgrounds on Monday, 17 February.

    Evans St, between Grants Road and Waimataitai Street, is the area affected. (See map below). The watermain replacement work is expected to run into winter (May/June) and is weather dependent.

    Work hours will be 7.30 am to 6 pm.

    “There will be reduced lane widths and 30km/h temporary speed limits in the area which are likely to cause additional congestion and queue lengths especially at peak travel times,” says Chris Chambers, Maintenance Contract Manager South Canterbury, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA). 

    “Drivers should plan ahead and consider alternative routes if they want to avoid delays,” he says.

    More road work coming from NZTA, early March

    Early in March, NZTA will begin resurfacing a section of SH1 Evans St between Beverley Road and Te Weka St, south of the watermain works. 

    “We know that these multiple worksites will cause delays through Timaru,” says Mr Chambers. “But we are also pleased to be getting these road improvements underway after several years of patching and holding repairs.”

    To help ease the pressure please build extra time into your travel and avoid roadworks sites during peak times if you can, he says.

    Updates here: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions/canterbury/roadworks/497319(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New appointments to the National Film and Sound Archive board

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government has appointed Mrs Lucinda Brogden AM as Deputy Chair of the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia Board.

    Mr Joseph Thorp, Ms Caroline Lilley and Ms Jaclyn Lee-Joe have also been appointed as members of the Board, each for a term of three years.

    A treasured national collecting institution, the Archive collects, preserves and shares Australia’s audiovisual culture – providing an unbroken record of Australian creativity and diversity.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the appointments would strengthen the governance and strategic direction of the National Film and Sound Archive. 

    “Lucinda, Joe, Carol and Jackie have accomplished and varied careers in their respective fields with valuable experience working in Australia’s arts industry. 

    “Protecting our beloved cultural institutions for future generations means having the best leadership in place to safeguard them.”

    Mrs Lucinda Brogden AM has been a member of the Archive Board since December 2021 and has more than 30 years’ experience in accounting, finance and organisational psychology. She currently serves on a number of boards including as Chair of the Diabetes Australia Research Trust, Director of the Corporate Mental Health Alliance, Director at Australian Unity, and a Director of Be Kind Sydney. 

    In 2019, Mrs Brogden was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to workplace mental health and wellbeing. 

    Mr Joseph Thorp is currently the Chair of the Board of Directors of the State Theatre Company of South Australia. Following a career in international business, Mr Thorp serves as Secretary of Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Adelaide and Director of professional advisory services firm Slingsby Taylor Pty Ltd. Mr Thorp sits on a variety of other boards including the Governance and Nominations Committee at AnglicareSA, and as a Director of the Anglican Representative (National Redress Scheme) Limited. Mr Thorp has also served as Chairman and member of different boards including Chair of the Council of Governors of St Peter’s College, and Chair of Guide Dogs South Australia and Northern Territory.

    Ms Carol Lilley has over 25 years’ experience in financial statement audit, governance and assurance, internal audit and project and risk management, with a particular focus on government. She is currently a member of the Treasury, Department of Industry, Science and Resources and Aged Care Quality Safety Commission Audit and Risk Committees. Ms Lilley is also on the Financial and Performance Reporting Sub Committee and Chair of the Financial Statements Sub Committee. Previously Ms Lilley has been a member of the Audit and Risk Committees’ for Services Australia and for the National Library of Australia. She’s also previously served as Chair of the Department of Home Affairs Audit and Risk Committee and as a member of the Finance Committee of the Archive from 2014 to 2021. 

    Ms Jaclyn Lee-Joe has more than 20 years’ experience working in marketing and digital transformation roles across the media and entertainment, financial services, telecommunications, technology and aviation sectors. She is currently Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors of Football Australia, Co-Chair of the Local Operating Entity Women’s Asia Cup 2026, Board Director of Hayes Theatre Co, and an External Member of the University of Sydney’s Risk and Performance Senate Committee. Prior to this, Ms Lee-Joe has worked as an advisor and manager at multiple media and communications companies including Netflix, BBC, Canva, Skype, K-Box Global and Virgin Mobile. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 38-2025: *Update* Scheduled Outage: Saturday 15 February to Sunday 16 February 2025 – Multiple Systems

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    14 February 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    Approved arrangements operators, customs brokers, importers, manned depots, and freight forwarders who are required to book and manage requests for inspections through the Biosecurity Portal.

    Approved arrangements operators who will be required to view and/or update details of their Approved Arrangement via the Approved Arrangement Management Product (AAMP).

    Approved arrangement operators attempting to access online…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Balancing Environmental Considerations and Cost Optimization to Shape the Future of Sustainable Procurement: Daisuke Okumura

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Balancing Environmental Considerations and Cost Optimization to Shape the Future of Sustainable Procurement: Daisuke Okumura

    Key Figure in Raw Material Procurement for Sustainable EV Batteries
    Daisuke Okumura
    Engineering Procurement Promotion Department, Procurement DivisionMobility Energy Business DivisionPanasonic Energy Co., Ltd.
    Okumura joined the company in 2003, initially handling rare metal sales at the Corporate International Trade Division (at the time). He later spent five and a half years in Shanghai, China, gaining experience in group-wide centralized contracts for battery materials, steel, and resins. After returning to Japan, he engaged in lithium-ion battery material procurement. He is currently involved in cost reduction for raw materials, supplier selection, and BOM*¹ cost management, primarily for automotive applications.
    ＊1: Bill of Materials (BOM): The total cost of all components and materials required for product manufacturing.

    Taking on the Challenge of Reducing Environmental Impact Across the Entire Supply Chain
    As increasing importance is placed on sustainability and ESG, the role of procurement has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Sustainable procurement is now a key element of environmental consideration and social responsibility. In addition to the traditional Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD) criteria, reducing environmental impact has become a key factor in supplier selection.

    In the value chain of automotive lithium-ion batteries, a substantial portion of CO₂ emissions arises from raw material extraction, processing, and transportation, more so than battery production itself. Notably, the procurement of cathode and anode materials associated with battery performance and safety accounts for nearly half of these emissions. In response, Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd. has set a goal to halve its carbon footprint (CFP)*² by FY2030 compared to FY2021. To achieve this, the company is advancing initiatives to minimize environmental impact across the supply chain in addition to realizing net zero CO₂ emissions at its own plants (becoming carbon neutral).

    Additionally, procurement must quickly adapt to price fluctuations caused by factors beyond our control, such as geopolitical risks and policy changes. To enhance resilience, we are not only diversifying supply sources but also working closely with customers to identify and secure safer, higher-quality raw materials, strengthening the resilience of our procurement operations.
    ＊2: Carbon Footprint (CFP): CO₂ emissions converted from greenhouse gas emissions throughout the entire product life cycle—from raw material procurement to disposal and recycling of a product or service.

    Increasing the Local Procurement Rate to Accelerate a Sustainable Procurement Strategy
    Various initiatives are underway in the United States, the key battleground for automotive lithium-ion batteries. Since 2019, Panasonic Energy has partnered with the US-based battery recycling company Redwood Materials. Together, they are working to establish the first cathode material recycling system in the US by recycling battery waste materials from Panasonic Energy of North America’s factory and using them to manufacture new cathode materials.If successfully implemented, this initiative will also enhance local procurement rates in the US, aligning with the goal of strengthening North American supply chains. However, ensuring economic feasibility is critical to its success. In addition to improving material recycling rates, extensive discussions and negotiations are ongoing to keep costs competitive with existing cathode materials in the market.

    We showcased NMG’s environmentally friendly graphite powder at the Panasonic booth at CES 2025.

    Until now, much of the graphite used in anode materials came from Asia, creating issues with transportation costs and environmental impact. To address these issues, we have signed a long-term supply agreement with Canada-based Nouveau Monde Graphite (NMG), a company that produces graphite using renewable energy from hydropower.By accelerating this sustainable procurement strategy, we aim to reduce the CFP of battery production and establish a low-environmental-impact supply chain.
    In the increasingly competitive market for automotive lithium-ion batteries, survival depends not only on quality and cost but also on speed. Introducing new materials, including the evaluation process, has traditionally taken several years. This is too slow to keep up with rapid global changes.Recognizing this challenge, we are reviewing evaluation methods, risk management processes, and other key procedures. By working closely with our customers to gain their understanding and cooperation, we are working to shorten the time required for material adoption.

    Leading the Development of a Circular Economy for EV Batteries
    Our goal is to first build an environmentally conscious supply chain in the US to establish a circular economy for automotive lithium-ion batteries and then expand the initiative to Japan. To scale these efforts, connecting recycling companies and cathode material manufacturers is essential, creating a cohesive ecosystem. While there are significant technological and cost-related challenges to overcome, advocating for the importance of tackling these issues and leading the way is a crucial role of procurement.
    Panasonic Energy’s mission is “Achieving a society in which the pursuit of happiness and a sustainable environment are harmonized and free of conflict.” To me, harmony means balancing environmental responsibility with economic viability. Without achieving this balance, our mission cannot be fulfilled. It is an extremely challenging goal, but by driving reforms with both caution and boldness, we are committed to advancing the adoption of EVs—key to realizing a decarbonized society—and will continue to take on this challenge with determination.

    Touring a factory to select a new supplier (Okumura is second from the left)

    The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Aiming for a company where all individuals and teams keep going and taking on challenges: Elise Neel

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Aiming for a company where all individuals and teams keep going and taking on challenges: Elise Neel

    Leading strategies and innovations at Panasonic Well
    Elise Neel
    Panasonic Well LLCGlobal Head of Strategy & Innovation
    After serving as an executive in multiple companies, including her role as CEO of a digital mapping company, Elise Neel as a Senior Vice President of Verizon spearheaded the transformation of one of the largest and most profitable telecommunications company in the world, successfully shifting its focus towards software and service offerings. Under her leadership, her team developed over 130 patents in five years, 80% in the areas of artificial intelligence. Elise is the author of three of the AI-based patents. In October 2023, she joined Panasonic Well and currently supervises a broad range of areas, including portfolio and business strategy, new business development, innovation, ecosystem development, corporate development, marketing, and branding.

    Accelerating both internal and external collaboration, essential for innovations

    At Panasonic Well, one of the strategies we have focused on is expanding innovations through collaboration within and outside of the Panasonic Group. We have an expat program where many members from Japan come to Panasonic Well in the US for multiple years to accelerate learning and sharing of technologies, strategies, and ideas. Some of those expats were involved in the creation of Umi, a holistic digital family wellness platform and coach unveiled at CES 2025. We also provide opportunities for sharing know-how and cross-learning through Dojo programs.*1 In FY2025, we hope to increase programs like these.＊1: Programs for Panasonic Well employees to visit the Panasonic Group’s global sites and disseminate state-of-the-art technologies from Silicon Valley in the US throughout the Group.

    We have also been committed to building a business ecosystem.*2 A recent example is our global partnership with Anthropic, a leading AI safety and research company. We have tenaciously advocated for the adoption of ethical, safe and privacy-friendly AI tooling and platforms, not only for Panasonic Well but also across relevant departments in the Panasonic Group. Our efforts have led to the global strategic partnership with Anthropic announced at CES. Now under Panasonic Go, the strategic growth and transformation initiative announced at CES 2025, the Panasonic Group will endeavor to build a system to enhance the use of AI to drive increased efficiency and new revenue streams leveraging safe, reliable and ethical AI. Partnerships like Anthropic are just one example, of many, that we will have.＊2: A large economic network of various companies and organizations that collaborate to create greater value.

    You need not be ashamed of failure. Be ashamed to stop trying

    I’m in a position to support our staff in bringing about innovations. As part of my responsibilities, I always keep in mind the need to mitigate their fear of doing something different from others or encountering failure. I try to encourage them by stating, “You need not be ashamed of failures. Be ashamed to stop trying.” In Panasonic Well, there are people who started a company and those companies did not succeed. However, despite their past failures, they remain passionate and now lead our teams. They do not linger on disappointment but launch a counterattack. This is the most respectable attitude, and I hope to continue supporting such people.
    As for me, I try to join hands with many positive people. Even when you face a challenge, you can move ahead if everyone else can help others move together. I also make a point of expressing my gratitude to my team. Meanwhile, to keep going, it is important to maintain creativity by activating the brain and relaxing. I encourage my team to have such opportunities. For me, one of the ways is by ‘dancing’. Actually, the people dancing to Steve Aoki’s DJ performance right before the opening keynote at CES were me and my team.

    Ensuring a harmonious balance between the introduction of advanced technology and human-centered AI
    When I saw visitors and the media express understanding the opportunities we presented at CES, tears filled my eyes, recalling our hard work. However, it was only the beginning of our endeavor. I genuinely believe that Umi will prove quite effective in changing behaviors, including the activities and nutrition of all family members, because we created our service based on a comprehensive understanding of the problems and needs of families. I hope that Umi will expand globally.

    Through the opportunity at Panasonic Well, I helped to lead initiatives to further improve the lives of families while using responsible, ethical, and safe AI. Now through Panasonic Go, I look forward to the opportunity to extend this work and apply my experience in business transformation. I believe the onset of AI can help transform Panasonic Group to deliver greater value to our customers and help us work more efficiently as a team, and am excited to support Panasonic Group’s efforts to change people’s lives, communication, business, and society at large through the use of advanced technology and human-centered AI.

    The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Recognized with Top ‘A’ Rating by CDP for Climate Change Leadership for Third Consecutive Year

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Recognized with Top ‘A’ Rating by CDP for Climate Change Leadership for Third Consecutive Year

    Osaka, Japan, February 7, 2025 – Panasonic Holdings Corporation (PHD) has been named by CDP*1, an international non-profit organization, as an A-list*2 company for 2024 in recognition of its leadership in disclosure transparency and performance in the area of climate change. This marks the third consecutive year, and the sixth time overall, that PHD has achieved CDP’s highest rating.

    CDP is widely recognized as the global standard for corporate environmental reporting, and the ratings published annually by CDP are widely used to drive investment and procurement decisions toward a net zero, sustainable and resilient economy. In 2024, more than 24,800 companies, representing two-thirds of the global market value, reported their environmental data through CDP. Earning an “A” rating from CDP indicates that a company has been evaluated as positioning climate change as a critical management issue and has effectively managed governance, strategy, risk management, metrics, and targets related to climate change as per the guidelines of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD)*3, which helps the company to gain the trust of investors and customers and facilitate its business.
    PHD received the highest “A” rating in the climate change category again for setting ambitious and meaningful goals to address and resolve climate change issues, for its emissions reduction activities, and for the transparency and comprehensiveness of its information disclosure. Moreover, in 2024, PHD received recognition from the international organization Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)*4 for its “Net-Zero Targets”.
    Committed to making sure that my children and grandchildren and yours, and future generations can enjoy a healthy environment, the Panasonic Group will continue to promote efforts to solve global environmental problems and transparent disclosure of environmental information to achieve the mission of realizing “an ideal society with affluence both in matter and mind.”
    *1: CDP is an international NGO headquartered in the United Kingdom. It conducts activities to urge companies and local governments to disclose information about their environmental measures.
    *2: CDP rates companies using nine grades (A, A-, B, B-, C, C-, D, D-, and F).
    *3: Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD): A framework for disclosing financial information on corporate climate change initiatives and impacts. The TCFD was established by the Financial Stability Board, which consists of central banks and other institutions from various countries, in response to a request from the G20.
    *4: A collaboration between the CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), with a global team composed of people from these organizations.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham, Whitehouse Lead Congressional Delegation To Munich Security Conference

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) will lead a bipartisan, bicameral congressional delegation to this weekend’s Munich Security Conference (MSC).

    In addition to hundreds of leaders and decision makers throughout the world, the 2025 MSC will include Vice President of the United States JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

    The MSC is widely considered the world’s leading forum for international security policy. The conference is a “marketplace of ideas” where initiatives and solutions are developed and opinions are exchanged. It also provides a venue for diplomatic initiatives and ideas to cooperatively address the world’s most pressing security concerns.

    Other congressional participants include:

    U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas)

    U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut)

    U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska)

    U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa)

    U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-California)

    U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-New Jersey)

    U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi)

    U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-Virginia)

    U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colorado)

    U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Delaware)

    U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii)

    U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina)

    U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland)

    U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri)

    U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Michigan)

    U.S. Representative William Timmons (R-South Carolina-04)

    Additional Information on the 2025 Munich Security Conference:

    https://securityconference.org/en/msc-2025/

    YouTube Channel for the 2025 MSC Panels and Discussions:

    www.youtube.com/@MunSecConf

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Waikato & Bay of Plenty state highway works February 2025 

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    When the sun continues to shine, road workers across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty are continuing to make significant progress on many worksites.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) and its contractors are completing an ambitious programme to improve safety and resilience of the state highway network, making the most of the summer months in which they’re able to reseal and re-construct roads, says Sandra King, Bay of Plenty System Manager. 

    “The recent spell of good weather has allowed our contractors to make great progress on their maintenance programmes, some ahead of schedule, across both regions. Examples include completing the rebuild of both State Highway 2 north of Tauranga at Snodgrass Road and State Highway 27 in Matamata, several asphalting sites on State Highway 29 Kaimai Range and the scheduled closure on the Kaimai Range. 

    “We appreciate everyone’s patience, especially where we have road closures and detours, or multiple worksites in the same area. This scale of work shows our investment in the region, and commitment to improving people’s journeys. 

    “Due to the work taking place there will inevitably be delays to some journeys. As always, our key focus is to keep road users and contracting crews safe at all times,” says Ms King. 

    This work forms part of the government’s $2.07 billion investment into road and drainage renewal and maintenance across 2024-27 via the State Highway Pothole Prevention fund. 

    To plan ahead and see where disruptive works are, people can use the NZTA Journey Planner (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) This is kept up to date in real time so you can see all disruptive activity and potential hazards on the state highway network. 

    Waikato Bay of Plenty works as at 14 February 2025 [PDF, 510 KB]

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH2 Waipawa road rebuild taking shape

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Roading crews are making good progress on the SH2 road rebuild (rehabilitation) in Waipawa between Victoria Street and Tamumu Road.

    The first stage of work, installing kerb and channel, has now been finished with more than 360 metres of concrete poured in the installation.

    The focus now shifts to the rebuild of this stretch of road. Crews will begin from next Monday (17 February), working at night for approximately 4 weeks.

    The work will be carried out under stop/go traffic management between 8pm and 5am Mondays to Fridays (finishing each week at 5am on Saturday).

    The rebuild will be done section by section to reduce traffic impacts and during the work, access for residents and businesses will remain and there will be on street parking – just not on the section of state highway being worked on.

    Rebuilding the road will involve recycling the existing road materials with cement added to the road, to extend the life of the road and provide a smoother surface, improving the journey through this stretch of road.

    At the same time, Central Hawke’s Bay District Council was scheduled to complete work on the southbound footpath this year, which was beside the area of State Highway 2 that NZTA is working on. The two organisations aligned on this renewal, with NZTA contractors completing the road and Council-funded footpath construction work at the same time– minimising costs and disruptions to ratepayers.

    “State Highway 2 is the road that keeps us connected to each other, and the rest of the country,” says the council’s Community Infrastructure and Development General Manager Mark Kinvig.

    “The road’s part to play in the economic growth of the district and the accessibility it creates, allowing people to move around, cannot be underplayed.

    “Working together delivers what the community wants and needs, but for a lot less money. 

    “This translates into better roads for everyone,” says Mr Kinvig.

    At this stage, the rebuild project is expected to be complete mid-March, slightly earlier than initially planned.

    “We know this work has already involved some disruption to businesses and the community and we’re grateful for people’s support – without it, the works would undoubtedly take longer to complete,” says NZTA Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations Rua Pani.

    SH2 resealing between Waipukurau and Takapau – day work

    Starting this week, a stretch of SH2 between Takapau and Waipukurau will be resealed over the next 6 weeks.

    Crews will be working onsite Monday to Friday from 7am to 6pm each weekday.

    The road will be under stop/go traffic management and road users should expect possible delays of up to 20 minutes.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Upcoming Auckland state highway closures

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Key maintenance works will see upcoming closures on two busy Auckland state highways.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) asks people to plan ahead and allow additional time for their journeys if traveling during these works.

    State Highway 1 – Central Motorway Junction night closures (10pm to 5am)

    • A full northbound closure on State Highway 1 (SH1) between the Ellerslie Panmure Hwy and Symonds St will be in place on Sunday 16 and Monday 17 February.
    • A full northbound closure between Mt Wellington Hwy and Ellerslie Panmure Hwy will be in place Tuesday 18 February.
    • A full northbound closure between the Ellerslie Panmure Hwy and Gillies Ave on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 February, for road resurfacing. Work will continue into the following week from Monday 24 to Thursday 27 February.

    Motorists traveling northbound on SH1 from Ellerslie to the Central Motorway Junction should detour via Great South Rd, Broadway, Khyber Pass and Grafton Rd to the State Highway 16 Wellesley St westbound on-ramp, where they can rejoin SH1.

    Motorists traveling northbound on SH1 to State Highway 16 westbound should detour via Great South Road, Greenlane West, Balmoral Rd and St Lukes Rd.

    Motorists traveling northbound on SH1 from Mt Wellington Hwy to Ellerslie should detour via Great South Road.

    Detours will be signposted and are expected to add no more than 15 minutes to northbound journeys.

    As well as ensuring a smooth, skid-resistant surface, road resurfacing helps to protect the important structural layers underneath, improves watertightness to help prevent potholes, and extends the life of the road.

    State Highway 18 – Tauhinu Road to Albany Highway night closures (9pm to 5am)

    Overnight closures of State Highway 18 eastbound between Tauhinu Rd and Albany Hwy will take place over 10 nights in late February and early March while contractors reconstruct the road.

    Closures will take place between 9pm and 5am on the following dates:

    • Sunday 16 February to Tuesday 18 February
    • Sunday 23 February
    • Thursday 27 February
    • Sunday 2 March to Wednesday 5 March
    • Sunday 9 March

    During the closure, road users will be detoured via Upper Harbour Drive. The detour route will be signposted and is expected to add less than 10 minutes to eastbound journeys.

    Rebuilding the road, which often involves replacing all or most of the structural road layers, improves the longevity of the network, the resilience and ultimately the safety and efficiency for all road users. Nearby residents can expect increased noise during the works, however, contractors will work to minimise disruption as much as possible.

    For more information about the road reconstruction works, visit: SH18 Tauhinu Road to Albany Highway(external link)

    These works are weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) for up-to-date information, including any changes due to weather. 

    NZTA thanks everyone for their patience as we carry out these important works.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff Raise Alarm on Trump Administration Targeting Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Schiff Raise Alarm on Trump Administration Targeting Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid

    Senators: “We write to say no to Elon Musk and DOGE, and demand hands off Medicare or Medicaid”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) joined Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and 27 other Democratic Senators in demanding President Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) refrain from making cuts to Medicare and Medicaid to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. Their letter comes after Elon Musk and DOGE officials gained access to key payment and contracting systems at the Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services (CMS).

    In 2025, roughly 160 million Americans will rely on the programs CMS administers and oversees, including Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Health Insurance Marketplaces.

    Last year, 68 million seniors and people with disabilities — including 6.6 million Californians — relied on Medicare coverage for essential health care, including hospital visits, screenings for cancer, diabetes, and depression, and prescription drugs. Nearly 80 million Americans relied on Medicaid, making it the largest public health insurance program in the United States. That includes 15 million people enrolled in California’s Medicaid program, Medi-Cal, which covers almost a third of all adults and half of all kids in the state.

    “We write to say no to Elon Musk and DOGE, and demand hands off Medicare or Medicaid. We strongly oppose any efforts by Musk — or anyone else in your administration — cutting or damaging these vital programs. Medicare and Medicaid must not be raided to pay for tax cuts for billionaires,” wrote the Senators. “Every cut risks Americans paying more, waiting longer, and wading through more insurance red tape for care. Every cut risks hospitals and community health centers struggling harder to keep their doors open and forcing health providers and workers out of their jobs.”

    “It is dangerously unacceptable that an unelected Musk and his unqualified acolytes have access to sensitive CMS systems and are ready to bypass Congress to make life and death decisions affecting millions of Americans,” continued the Senators. “No one asked for this lawless approach to our critical government health care systems. We urge you to stop this threat to Americans’ health care, now.”

    In addition to Senators Padilla, Schiff, Markey, and Warren, the letter is also signed by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Senators Padilla and Schiff have fought relentlessly against the Trump Administration’s dangerous attacks on the American health care system. Last week, Senators Padilla and Schiff joined Senators Klobuchar, Sanders, and 30 other Senators in calling on Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services Dorothy Fink to end the unprecedented freeze on all external health communications and funding. After the Trump Administration paused crucial communications from federal health agencies last month, Senator Padilla joined Senator Schatz in introducing a resolution calling for uninterrupted health warning services for the American people.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear President Trump:

    We write with alarm at recent actions by your Administration that put Medicare and Medicaid at risk – threatening access to care for 140 million Americans. On February 5, Elon Musk and representatives of his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) gained access to key payment and contracting systems at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the agency that administers these vital programs. Masquerading as a false crusade against waste, fraud, and abuse, Musk appears intent to break the programs that seniors, people with disabilities, children, and families rely on to get their health care. We write to say no to Elon Musk and DOGE, and demand hands off Medicare or Medicaid. We strongly oppose any efforts by Musk – or anyone else in your administration – cutting or damaging these vital programs. Medicare and Medicaid must not be raided to pay for tax cuts for billionaires.

    Medicare and Medicaid are lifelines for millions of Americans. In 2024, 68 million seniors and people with disabilities seniors relied on Medicare coverage for essential health care, including hospital visits, screenings for cancer, diabetes, and depression, and prescription drugs. Nearly 80 million Americans relied on Medicaid, making it the largest public health insurance program in the United States. Medicaid provides funding to states for services at nursing homes, hospitals, rural health clinics as well as home health services, addiction and mental health services, and family planning. Americans rely on Medicaid for pregnancy and childbirth, as well as long-term services and supports to care for people with disabilities, older adults, and chronically ill Americans.

    But now, DOGE is invading CMS, posing immeasurable risks to Americans’ health care. DOGE representatives, with no training or expertise, could make unilateral, politically motivated decisions to target both beneficiaries and health care providers while blocking access to care and essential payments for services. Every cut risks Americans paying more, waiting longer, and wading through more insurance red tape for care. Every cut risks hospitals and community health centers struggling harder to keep their doors open and forcing health providers and workers out of their jobs.

    We continue to fight for a health care system that works better for all Americans, so they experience lower costs, shorter wait times, and receive better care. But your Administration, Elon Musk, and DOGE have already made that harder. Your Administration is already responsible for the shut-down of Medicaid portals across all 50 states, disruptions to vital health care communication, closures of community health centers, and significant delays in funding for life-saving health research. Cuts to Medicare and Medicaid will only serve to deepen the harm.

    It is dangerously unacceptable that an unelected Musk and his unqualified acolytes have access to sensitive CMS systems and are ready to bypass Congress to make life and death decisions affecting millions of Americans. No one asked for this lawless approach to our critical government health care systems. We urge you to stop this threat to Americans’ health care, now.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Students misled on halal school lunches

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    It’s been revealed that Muslim students have been misled on the Government’s school lunches, which were claimed to be halal.

    “It’s unacceptable that our Muslim students were served a meal that David Seymour’s lunch provider said was halal, when it fact it wasn’t,” Labour’s Ethnic Communities Spokesperson Jenny Salesa said.

    “Claiming a meal is religiously permissible for groups of students when it isn’t, breaks a trust we have fought long and hard to establish with communities who have long called Aotearoa home.

    “New Zealand is a culturally diverse nation, rich with people of all backgrounds and faiths – and they should feel comfortable expressing their identities here.

    “I back my local school principal in her push to ensure halal school lunches are as they claim to be, halal-certified.

    “David Seymour must front up and apologise to these students and their families for a false claim that has resulted in disrespect to their faith,” Jenny Salesa said.

    “It seems with each passing day, we hear about another mishap with David Seymour’s school lunches. First they were arriving late or not at all, then it was schools having to cover extra costs for distribution and clean up, and now they’re misleading religious students,” said Education Spokesperson Jan Tinetti.

    “They should have never tampered with these school lunches in the first place, but now they’ve created a huge mess that is distracting our students’ from their learning and causing headaches for schools across the country.”

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Nicola Willis tone deaf as 230 jobs lost

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Nicola Willis thought it was the perfect time to celebrate today, while 230 people lost their jobs.

    Her press release titled ‘Manufacturing increase welcomed’ landed as the people of Tokoroa are only just coming to terms with the closure of the Kinleith paper mill.  

    “Talk about tone deaf. People are hurting, whānau don’t know what to do, and instead of showing any kind of humility, Nicola Willis is sitting in her Beehive office patting herself on the back,” Labour Employment Spokesperson Willie Jackson said.

    “As she is crowing about the sector doing well, 230 people no longer have a job or an income.

    “Many of them would have thought the Government would act. Especially after the Deputy Prime Minister promised he’d do something about it. Instead, they’ve let the paper mill close with no plan to help the workers and Nicola Willis thought it was her time to shine.  

    “Shame on her, and shame on this Government for doing nothing,” Willie Jackson said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Holey Dollar returned to Polish Government

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    A rare silver coin has been returned to Republic of Poland representative, Deputy Minister, Marta Cienkowska at a ceremony in Canberra.

    Dating back more than 200 years, the coin was bought lawfully by a collector in the early 20th century and donated to a museum in Toruń where it became a protected object of Poland.

    It was stolen from the museum’s collection between 2011 and 2016, sold in two auctions in Europe, and then made its way to Australia through unlawful export.

    Acting on advice from the Office for the Arts and a restitution request from the Republic of Poland, the coin was seized by the Australian Federal Police under the Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986 in August 2024, enabling its return.

    The 1813 Holey Dollar is an example of coins used in the colony of New South Wales to address a currency shortage.

    Originally a Charles III Spanish Silver Dollar minted in Mexico in 1777, it was one of 40,000 Spanish reales imported by Governor Lachlan Macquarie. The centre was cut out to create two new coins and the outer ring became known as the ‘Holey Dollar’.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the handover showed Australia was serious about upholding diplomatic and international treaty commitments.

    “I want to recognise the expertise of everyone involved in this great outcome for both countries, from tracking this object to seizing it.

    “It’s important that we continue to work together to return culturally significant objects to their rightful homes. Their value can be expressed not only in monetary terms but through telling our shared history and stories.”

    For images of the coin, visit: Returns of foreign cultural property | Office for the Arts.

    For more information, visit: Movable cultural heritage | Office for the Arts.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Regeneration and regrowth in Aceh: 20 years on from the Indian Ocean Tsunami

    Source: Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research

    Working with women 

    Working with ACIAR, Dr Malem McLeod, a soil scientist with the NSW DPRID, highlighted the kelompok wanita tani (KWT) women’s farming groups as a particularly successful initiative that grew organically from local efforts. 

    ‘In the immediate aftermath of the tsunami, we met a group of women, of all ages, who were coming together, gardening using a vacant village land. It was a kind of a healing forum to recover from the loss of people and livelihoods and share the challenges of recovery while growing food for family consumption,’ said Dr McLeod. ‘It was also a place for socialisation and information exchange.’  

    The ACIAR-supported project tapped into this by facilitating the creation of around 30 women’s farming groups across the 4 regions of Aceh. Training was provided for local leaders and extension officers to help the women learn improved techniques for growing vegetables and engage with local business and government, leveraging the support from ACIAR.  

    In Aceh farming families, the man in the family is the main income earner through growing food crops such as rice and legumes. ‘Although the women contribute significantly to the work on growing the crops, the results are managed by the husband and most women are financially dependent on men,’ explained Dr McLeod. 

    By growing vegetables in groups, women were able to improve their household food security and generate their own income, which increased their confidence and independence.  

    Dr Malem McLeod, soil scientist
    NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

    ‘Some of the women’s group members became business-minded, even pre-selling their produce to wholesalers. The women also reported that working in the garden with the groups enhanced their physical health and wellbeing.’ 

    Technical training was provided for 245 women and agricultural extension officers, with about 750 women in farmer groups collectively benefitting by A$297,000 a year.  

    ‘The women’s groups facilitated a shift from financial dependence to self-reliant entrepreneurship,’ said Dr McLeod.  

    She noted that when new farming practices were introduced to men, they used it to improve their own food crop growing. But when new practices were shared with women, they brought them to the whole family and shared it with other women, effectively changing their whole community. ‘The information exchange and improvements became contagious,’ said Dr McLeod. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Holey Dollar returned to Polish Government

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    A rare silver coin has been returned to Republic of Poland representative, Deputy Minister, Marta Cienkowska at a ceremony in Canberra.

    Dating back more than 200 years, the coin was bought lawfully by a collector in the early 20th century and donated to a museum in Toruń where it became a protected object of Poland.

    It was stolen from the museum’s collection between 2011 and 2016, sold in two auctions in Europe, and then made its way to Australia through unlawful export.

    Acting on advice from the Office for the Arts and a restitution request from the Republic of Poland, the coin was seized by the Australian Federal Police under the Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Act 1986 in August 2024, enabling its return.

    The 1813 Holey Dollar is an example of coins used in the colony of New South Wales to address a currency shortage.

    Originally a Charles III Spanish Silver Dollar minted in Mexico in 1777, it was one of 40,000 Spanish reales imported by Governor Lachlan Macquarie. The centre was cut out to create two new coins and the outer ring became known as the ‘Holey Dollar’.

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the handover showed Australia was serious about upholding diplomatic and international treaty commitments.

    “I want to recognise the expertise of everyone involved in this great outcome for both countries, from tracking this object to seizing it.

    “It’s important that we continue to work together to return culturally significant objects to their rightful homes. Their value can be expressed not only in monetary terms but through telling our shared history and stories.”

    For images of the coin, visit: Returns of foreign cultural property | Office for the Arts.

    For more information, visit: Movable cultural heritage | Office for the Arts.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Advocates for Small Businesses in Federal Contracting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) to introduce the Simplifying Subcontracting Act to reduce complexity in federal government contracting and help more small businesses and entrepreneurs pursue contracts.

    “Qualified small businesses and entrepreneurs deserve the same access to federal government contracts as larger entities that currently dominate the contracting market,” said Crapo.  “Simplified, clearer language will improve their access to the federal contracting application process.”

    “Small businesses are vital to our economy but are often left out in federal government contracting due to overly complicated, bureaucratic language,” said Risch.  “The Simplifying Subcontracting Act requires certain federal government contracts to use plain language, enabling more small businesses to compete for these contracts.”

    The Simplifying Subcontracting Act, true to its name, is a simple, one-page bill that would require federal government contracts to use straightforward language when subcontracting work is given to small businesses.  This legislation mirrors the Plain Writing Act of 2010. 

    Additional co-sponsors include U.S. Senators John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Todd Young (R-Indiana) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado).

    The Idaho Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), Idaho Veteran Entrepreneurship Alliance and American Subcontractors Association support the bill.

    ?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Homemade taser found following flee

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Officers who attempted to stop a vehicle in Drury have taken a homemade weapon off the streets after the driver fled from Police.

    At about 2.50pm yesterday, Police signalled for a vehicle on Great South Road to stop, however it failed to do so and continued on towards Papakura.

    Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says the vehicle was on Te Napi Drive, Takanini after it had stopped.

    “Staff have quickly taken the driver into custody and a search of the vehicle has located a homemade taser, shotgun shell and ammunition.

    “This is a great result and yet another example that we are committed to keeping offensive weapons such as these out of our community.”

    A 29-year-old man will appear in Papakura District Court on 20 February charged with possession of an offensive weapon, unlawful possession of a restricted weapon, unlawful possession of ammunition and cannabis possession.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –