Category: Asia Pacific

MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Helene in South Carolina Tops $150M
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Helene in South Carolina Tops $150M

FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Helene in South Carolina Tops $150M
As of Oct. 19, FEMA has approved more than $154 million in federal disaster assistance to help more than 211,047 South Carolina households recover from Hurricane Helene. This includes:
- More than $11 million in housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
- More than $142 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs, such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
FEMA has completed more than 23,000 home inspections for Hurricane Helene survivors. Along with state and federal partners, nine Disaster Recovery Centers have been opened with more to come in affected areas.

In addition, the National Flood Insurance Program has received 302 claims from South Carolina policyholders and has paid out $213,000.

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation who were affected by Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance at this time. Residents can apply for FEMA assistance in several ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. (This is the fastest way to apply.)
- In person at any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 29169).
- On your phone using the FEMA mobile app.
- By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. The telephone line is open every day. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link. FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
kwei.nwaogu
Sat, 10/19/2024 – 17:38

MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Joint Declaration by G7 Defence Ministers to reaffirm common determination to address security challenges
Source: Government of Canada News

We, the G7 Defense Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, with the participation of the NATO Secretary General, have gathered in Naples to reaffirm our enduring unity and common determination to address, in a cohesive and concrete manner, security challenges, at a time in history marked by great instability.
October 19, 2024 – Naples, Italy – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Preamble

We, the G7 Defense Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, with the participation of the NATO Secretary General, have gathered in Naples to reaffirm our enduring unity and common determination to address, in a cohesive and concrete manner, security challenges, at a time in history marked by great instability.

In this spirit, we strongly reaffirm our commitment to promote respect for the United Nations Charter, to implement tangible measures to help safeguard peace and security, and to oppose any action aimed at undermining the free and open rules-based international order.

We:
- reiterate our unwavering support for Ukraine, which has for nearly three years defended itself against Russia’s brutal and full-scale illegal war of aggression. We condemn Russia, which has put in place a posture of confrontation and destabilization on a global scale, also resorting to hybrid warfare and the irresponsible use of nuclear rhetoric;
- believe that the G7, along with other international partners, can play a key role in the process of achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with international law, with respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. This cannot be done without continuing to work to achieve the widest possible international support for Ukraine, fostering a renewed sense of trust, based upon the inclusion of like-minded countries;
- commit to identifying cooperative solutions to address the growing need for defense industries to be able to sustain a high pace of production, work on building and strengthening resilient and reliable defense industry, including on issues related to supply needed for Defense;
- recognize the need for a more cooperative approach in defense-related research and development, also in terms of sharing and leveraging expertise and knowledge, while fostering a safe environment to prevent malign access, in order to maintain competitive advantage, including in the field of emerging and disruptive technologies;
- acknowledge the relevance of finding effective solutions to ensure the extended sustainability of military operations and proper regeneration of forces;
- are also committed to containing and countering information manipulation and the spread of misinformation and disinformation;
- condemn Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack on Israel on October 7^th, 2023, which has unleashed a spiral of violence that threatens the entire Middle Eastern region;
- are united in supporting the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza and a sustainable pathway to a two-state solution;
- are concerned by the latest events in Lebanon and the risk of further escalation. We express concern over all threats to UNIFIL’s security. The protection of peacekeepers is incumbent upon all parties to a conflict. We also reaffirm the importance of supporting UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces in their role of ensuring the stability and security of Lebanon.
- condemn the attacks perpetrated by the Houthis against maritime shipping transiting the area including the Red Sea, Bab el Mandeb Strait and Gulf of Aden, reaffirming the right to preserve freedom of navigation, protect shipping lanes and defend ships and personnel, in accordance with international law and UNSCRs 2722 and 2739;
- condemn Iran’s direct military attack against Israel on 13 April and 1 October, 2024, and call on Iran to refrain from providing support to Hamas, Hezbollah, Houthis and other non-state actors, and taking further actions that could destabilize the region and trigger an uncontrolled process of escalation;
- express our concerns about strategies pursued by some state actors towards Africa, including predatory economic practices, and disinformation, that create instability;
- reaffirm our commitment to the strengthening of the stability and security of African countries, stressing the importance of an integrated approach, through practical and coordinated actions with African partners in the field of peace, security and defense, notably in the areas of capacity building, security and defense sectors reform, as well as interoperability. In this sense, we look forward to bilateral and multilateral partners’ initiatives on the “southern neighborhood”, including EU and NATO activities;
- recognize that climate change is a defining challenge with a profound impact on our security that can aggravate demographic, economic, and political challenges to peace and stability worldwide, and especially in the most vulnerable countries;
- reaffirm that the multilateral system, with the United Nations and its Charter at the center, must be strengthened. We are committed to take the necessary actions adopted at the UN Summit of the Future and to continue to support and adapt UN Peace Operations as a critical tool to maintain international peace and security;
- reaffirm our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, whose crucial role in global prosperity and security we recognize, and our commitment to fostering our security and defense partnerships with Indo-Pacific countries;
- reaffirm that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to international security and prosperity;
- express our serious concern about the situation in the East and South China Seas and reiterate our strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion, including in the maritime and air domains;
- express our deep concern at China’s support to Russia, which is enabling Russia to maintain its illegal war in Ukraine and has significant and broad security implications, as well as the strengthening of military cooperation between China and Russia;
- condemn the continued development of North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, in direct violation of relevant UNSCRs, and express our concern about its increasing military cooperation with Russia.
Support to Ukraine

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we, the G7 with NATO, have played a central role in supporting Ukraine’s right to self-defense in order to counter Russia’s aggression, to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, reaffirming the primacy of international law, including the UN Charter and the principle of the inviolability of national sovereignty.

We reaffirm our unwavering support for the freedom, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine for as long as it takes.

We continue to condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s blatant breach of international law, including the UN Charter, its repeated and deliberate attacks against civilian and critical infrastructures, the use of actions of hybrid warfare, as well as Russia’s irresponsible nuclear rhetoric.

We believe that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is posing a threat to international security, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the rules-based international order.

We support Ukraine’s right to self-defense and reaffirm our commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, including by implementing bilateral security commitments and arrangements based on the G7 “Joint Declaration in support of Ukraine” signed in the margins of the NATO Vilnius Summit, bilateral security agreements and arrangements signed with Ukraine, and the Ukraine Compact endorsed in the margins of the NATO Washington Summit.

We therefore reaffirm the importance of synergy and coherence between the support provided by NATO, the EU and on a bilateral or multilateral basis. In this regard, we support the mechanism of enhanced political consultations between Ukraine and the Alliance established with the NATO-Ukraine Council. We support the assistance initiatives of the EU and NATO, including the military support through the European Peace Facility, the EU Military Assistance Mission for Ukraine, negotiations for Ukraine’s accession to the European Union, and the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine. We also support the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, including the work of its Capability Coalitions, and recall the launch of the Ukraine Compact at the NATO Washington Summit. We welcome initiatives aimed at supporting Ukrainian defense industry and innovation, which are instrumental to enable Ukraine’s self-defense.

We underscore our intent to continue to provide assistance to Ukraine, including military assistance in the short and long term. We support Ukraine on its irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership.

We consider it imperative to continue supporting the education and training needs of the Ukrainian Defense and Security Forces in the short and long term, given the need for force regeneration and reconstitution. We welcome NATO’s and EU’s respective efforts through NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine and EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine, which will provide support also to the long-term development and reform of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, including military assistance. In coherence with Apulia G7 Leaders’ Communiqué, Extraordinary Revenues stemming from immobilized Russian sovereign assets, held in the EU and other relevant jurisdictions, will be used for supporting Ukraine, including military, budgetary and reconstruction assistance in the short and long term, as consistent with G7 members’ respective legal systems.

We consider it a priority to work now to find solutions to create a Ukrainian military interoperable with supporting member states and NATO, capable of defending Ukraine now and deterring further attacks in the future. This process must be based on coordinated and sustained actions across relevant state and international actors.

We reiterate that our ultimate goal remains a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in accordance with international law, as set out in the UN Charter and its principles, that ensures respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Middle East

We express our concern about the escalation in the Middle East.

We reiterate our firm condemnation of the brutal terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas on 7 October 2023. We call for an immediate ceasefire and the prompt release of all hostages. This attack has triggered a spiral of violence, also involving Israel and Hezbollah, deeply affecting civilians. A dangerous cycle of attacks and retaliation risks fueling uncontrollable escalation in the Middle East, which is in no one’s interest. We encourage all parties to engage constructively to de-escalate current tensions and emphasize the importance for all parties to act in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law. We reiterate the absolute need for the civilian population to be protected and that there must be full, rapid, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access, as a matter of absolute priority.

The conflict in the Gaza and the dramatic humanitarian crisis have highlighted the need to start a political process necessary to avoid further military escalation and achieve a stable and lasting security situation. We therefore reaffirm the need to continue working towards a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, a stable security situation, and an increased and unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to the innocent civilian population.

We welcome UNSCR 2735 and reaffirm our commitment to support a political process towards achieving a two-state solution, as the only option for ensuring the long-term peaceful coexistence of Israelis and Palestinians, addressing both Israel’s legitimate security needs, alongside a sovereign, viable and democratic Palestinian state.

We commend initiatives to train and advise Palestinian Authority security forces, and support the broader reform of the security and judiciary building on the positive experience of successful capacity building initiatives, including those for the Palestinian Civil Police, an improvement for the Palestinian people.

We reaffirm the need to identify, with other partners, within the framework of the relevant international organizations, viable solutions for post-conflict stabilization, governance and security, and in this regard we stand ready to support, when security conditions permit, post-war initiatives aimed at stabilizing the region.

We support the restoration of security and stability on the Lebanon-Israel border, including the protection of local populations.

We are concerned by the latest events in Lebanon and the risk of further escalation. We reiterate our call for a full cessation of hostilities consistent with the full implementation of UNSCR 1701 and a diplomatic solution to the fighting, recognizing the fundamental stabilizing role of the Lebanese Armed Forces and reaffirming the essential role of UNIFIL. We express concern over all threats to UNIFIL’s security. The protection of peacekeepers is incumbent upon all parties to a conflict.

We unequivocally condemn Iran’s ballistic missiles large-scale attacks against Israel and emphasize the importance for all parties to act in accordance with international law, including international humanitarian law.

We unequivocally reiterate commitment to the security of Israel.

We express our deep concern at the intensification of military cooperation between Iran and Russia, including in the supply of ballistic missiles, UAVs, military equipment and sensitive technology, aimed at circumventing the sanctions regime.

We are committed to maintaining freedom of navigation, protecting sea-lanes and defending seafarers and ships from attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, in line with the UNSCR 2722. We call on the Houthis to immediately cease their escalatory measures that increase regional instability, and immediately release the vessel “Galaxy Leader” and its crew. We welcome the significant contributions of the G7 to maritime security initiatives in the region.

We also believe it is crucial to prevent the conflict from spreading across the region. We call on all parties to avert an all-out war, a situation that would irreversibly destabilize the entire region and project further tension and instability around the world.

Africa

We believe that the African continent and the G7 share great potential for partnership and shared objectives, aware that the complex balances and the combined effects of growing demographics and climate change imply the need for an ongoing and shared development agenda.

We express our commitment to support the governments of African countries in setting the conditions that form the basis of sustained security, stability, and prosperity.

We recognize the significant impact several state and non-state actors have had on the economy and security of Africa. However, some aspects of this unbalanced influence have led to poor environmental, social and governance standards, supply chain dominance, debt unsustainability and labor and transparency concerns. The G7 endorses fair defense and economic partnerships that are mutually beneficial and equitable, through cooperation with African countries and its regional organizations.

We will continue our commitment to supporting peace, prosperity and stability in Africa, including within the EU integrated approach, combining different foreign policy tools, including civilian and military Common Security and Defence Policy missions and operations. Moreover, we welcome the assistance measures provided to African partners under the European Peace Facility, as a critical enabler of African ownership by strengthening the capacity of African Armed Forces and supporting African-led peace support operations. We see training, interoperability, the development of common protocols, the exchange of personnel and NATO’s Defence and related Security Capacity Building activities as effective tools for creating the right conditions for fostering security.

Indo-Pacific

We affirm our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, based on the rule of law and upholding the principle of the peaceful resolution of disputes without resorting to the threat or use of force. The region is central to global growth, geopolitical developments and military balance.

The importance of the Indo-Pacific goes beyond the economic dimension alone, with many developed and developing countries having direct interests in promoting peace, security and prosperity in the region, including through defense and security partnerships. We seek constructive and stable relations with China and recognize the importance of direct and candid engagement to express concerns and manage differences, particularly with regards to international peace and security.

We express our serious concern about the situation in the South and East China Seas, and as stated in the Apulia G7 Leaders’ Communiqué, we reiterate our strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.

There is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we are strongly opposed to China’s repeated obstruction of freedom of navigation, militarization of disputed features and coercive and intimidating activities, as well as the dangerous use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea.

We reaffirm the universal and unified character of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and reaffirm its important role in setting out as the legal framework that governs activities in the oceans and the seas. We also reiterate that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on July 12, 2016, is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings.

We reaffirm that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is indispensable to international security and prosperity. We are concerned about provocative actions, particularly the recent People’s Liberation Army military drills around Taiwan. There is no change in the basic positions of the G7 members on Taiwan, including stated one China policies. We call for a peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

We express our deep concern at China’s increasing support to Russia’s war economy, and call on China to cease the transfer of dual-use materials, including weapons components and equipment that are substantial inputs for Russia’s defense sector which are enabling Russia to maintain its illegal war in Ukraine. We express our concern about destabilizing actions resulting from the strengthening military cooperation between China and Russia.

We condemn North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. We reiterate our call for a complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantlement of all North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs. We also condemn the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including North Korea’s export and Russia’s procurement of North Korean ballistic missiles in direct violation of relevant UNSCRs, as well as Russia’s use of these missiles against Ukraine. We are concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear or ballistic missile-related technology to North Korea, which also violates relevant UNSCRs.

In this sense, acknowledging the relevance of the stability of the Indo-Pacific region to global dynamics, we are committed to coordinating our respective security and defense presence in the area, aimed at ensuring that regional security is preserved in accordance with international law.

We are committed to continue the dialogue with all partners in the region, as well as exploring increased participation in regional exercises and further operational cooperation in the region to deal with growing regional security challenges.

Defense readiness

We recognize these interconnected security challenges and acknowledge the need to respond decisively, including by continuing to strengthen the defense industry, encouraging robust engagement and industrial cooperation with partners. We welcome complementary initiatives launched in NATO and the EU.

We recognize the importance of ensuring reliable, predictable and stable access to finance for defense industries, acknowledging the specificities of the defense sector, fully taking into account sustainable finance policies, regulations, reporting and standards. We envisage greater cooperation, coordination and synergy aimed at a strong, responsive, secure, competitive and resilient defense industrial capacity and production. We will work on exploring multinational cooperation on efficient procurement, and aggregating demand to improve efficiencies. We consider it of paramount importance to keep our military edge through the responsible research and development and prompt adoption of new technologies, especially those in the emerging and disruptive technologies domain.

We highlight the relevance of an in-depth dialogue among G7 members on the challenges and opportunities for industrial resilience, work on building and strengthening resilient and reliable defense industry, including on issues related to supply needed for Defense.

We will continue working to improve interoperability, building upon the shared standards already in place.

We recognize the need to reduce heavy reliance on fossil fuels, and minimize and mitigate emissions, sharing best practices on energy transition, in order to preserve interoperability, protecting military effectiveness, and manage risks and vulnerabilities.

We acknowledge the need to share best practices about how to ensure buy-in and involvement from society, also to generate a credible and skilled workforce as a pillar of deterrence and defense. We recognize the importance of continuing to discuss and share each G7 member’s efforts to strengthen defense readiness.

Conclusions

We, the G7 Defense Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, with the participation of the NATO Secretary General, reaffirm our commitment, enduring unity and shared determination to address international security challenges together, in cooperation with international organizations and partners who share our respect for, and commitment to, the rules-based international order and international law, including the UN Charter.
MIL OSI Canada News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Coronation Road, Morrinsville

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

One person has died following a two-vehicle crash involving a motorbike and a car on Coronation Road, Morrinsville.

The crash was reported around 6:50pm.

The Serious Crash Unit has conducted a scene examination and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

The road has since reopened.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Ohaupo Road, Peacocke

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

One person has died following a single vehicle crash on Ohaupo Road, Peacocke overnight.

Police were called to the crash just after 10pm.

The Serious Crash Unit attended and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

The road has since reopened.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Celebrating the Navy’s Birthday by Supporting the Hawaii Community

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii –

The U.S. Navy marks an impressive milestone this month – the 249th anniversary of its founding.

As we celebrate our rich naval history, Navy and civilian personnel in Hawaii reflect on their role as members of the island community. Many consider it a privilege to call Hawaii home and seek every opportunity to show how much they treasure this place. Their gratitude takes on greater significance this year as the countdown begins to the Navy’s 250th birthday in 2025.

Service to others and a commitment to the greater good are values the Navy holds in high regard. That’s why beginning this month, the Navy will highlight 250 acts of voluntary community service performed by Sailors and civilian personnel in Hawaii during their free, non-work compensated time. The year-long, statewide initiative is called “Laulima Navy.”

Reflecting the Hawaiian value of laulima, translated as “many hands working together,” the 12-month commemoration underscores the Navy’s responsibility to the community and the ways Navy personnel volunteer alongside partners to help and support their neighbors.

“The success of Laulima Navy is rooted in teamwork, which is an integral part of the Navy mission. About 20 commands and components operating in Hawaii have pledged their support for the initiative and will join in highlighting their own ongoing community partnerships,” said Rear Admiral Steven Barnett, commander of Navy Region Hawaii and Navy Closure Task Force- Red Hill. “The depth and breadth of many of these relationships, particularly on the island of Kauai, reflect the Navy’s sincere and longstanding desire to respect and honor its neighbors and the places and traditions important to them.”

Sponsored by Commander, Pacific Fleet (PACFLT) and managed by Commander, Navy Region Hawaii (CNRH) Public Affairs, Laulima Navy kicks off on Oct. 19, 2024 on Oahu with a clean-up of the Pearl Harbor Historic Trail/Bike Path, which stretches 18.6 miles from Halawa Landing to Nanakuli, linking Leeward neighborhoods, historic sites, recreational areas, regional attractions, and nature along the old Oahu Railway & Land Company right-of-way. Navy volunteers will work alongside rotary clubs, community groups, companies, government agencies and the City & County of Honolulu to clean trash and debris from the heritage site, which serves as an important historic, cultural and natural resource for the community.

An important component of Laulima Navy is storytelling. “We will shine the light on the benefitting organization, highlighting its mission, its work and its people,” explained Barnett. “By shifting the focus to our community partners, we can amplify their work and, in the process, inspire others – in and outside of the Navy – to support their programs and initiatives.”

Other voluntary community service and support projects that have been identified thus far include Adopt-A-Highway, Girl Scouts STEM Fest, blood drives, school visits to Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Facility, PACFLT Band concerts, Loko i‘a Pā‘aiau workdays, and workdays at Halealoha Haleamau burial vault. Dozens of individuals also regularly volunteer with Native Hawaiian organizations, community groups, non-profit organizations, arts programs and youth sport groups in their free time. Their continuing commitment and support will be recognized as part of Laulima 2025.

“Supporting our neighbors through volunteerism has been a longstanding commitment for the Navy. It takes on greater significance as we celebrate our 249th birthday and begin the countdown to our 250th,” Barnett added. “Our commitment to the community will continue well beyond 2025. It’s an enduring promise that is part of the Navy’s mission.”

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Clendon Park

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

One person has died following a two-vehicle crash in Clendon Park overnight.

Emergency services were called about 2.50am to Roscommon Road after a report of a crash involving a ute and a motorbike.

The motorcyclist has since died.

The Serious Crash Unit has examined the scene, and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Military Sealift Command Far East Participates in Sama Sama

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

SUBIC BAY, Philippines –

As part of the eighth iteration of Exercise Sama Sama 2024, Military Sealift Command (MSC) Far East participated in refueling-at-sea familiarization training aboard the Philippine Navy (PN) frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF 150), at Subic Bay, Philippines, Oct. 8-9.

“MSC Far East makes sure every U.S. military ship in the Indo-Pacific region is able to get fuel, ammo, and supplies; this can include services to our allies and partners,” said U.S. Navy Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate Andrew Werner, MSC Far East, out of Singapore. “Without a Combat Logistics Force (CFL) or refueling ships, our fleet of ships, and those of some allies, such as the Philippines, would not be able to refuel at sea.”

Sama Sama 2024, which was held Oct. 7-18, was hosted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Navy, and featured participation from allies and partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including personnel and assets from Australia, Canada, France and Japan.

MSC Far East provided subject-matter-expert instruction for the refueling-at-sea familiarization training, along with members attached to Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, out of Singapore.

“The purpose of the training was to get the PN familiar with underway replenishment gear on a ship, how to set it up, and how to conduct a safe underway-replenishment,” said Werner. “MSC Far East has Boatswain’s mates that are subject-matter-experts and can train the Philippine Sailors. We do the similar training with other allies and partners.”

Underway replenishments of allied partners present a unique opportunity to strengthen partnerships and exercise compatibility of logistics systems.

“The training went over the fundamentals of refueling and replenishing at sea,” said U.S. Navy Chief Boatswain’s Mate Francisco Fuentes, DESRON 7. “We also conducted hands-on training and observed their on-station procedures for refueling-at-sea, and looked at their replenishment-at-sea stations forward of the ship.

“It was important for us to do hands-on training because it helped them understand our safety procedures, maintenance requirements, and types of equipment we use and our station procedures. This helps with our interoperability.”

According to Werner, he hopes that the training was beneficial to the PN, and they can mutually build upon interoperability.

“Every Navy does evolutions a little different and we were able to show them how on our U.S. Navy conducts a safe refueling—just about every week—when underway on deployment,” added Werner. “They were excited and motivated to learn and I look forward to working with them again in the future.”

Sama Sama 2024 is a multilateral engagement that includes a sea and shore phase that will incorporate medical, engineering, logistics and symposiums, while diving and explosive ordnance disposal teams, naval vessels and maritime surveillance aircraft conduct exercises focused on anti-submarine, surface and air warfare, and maritime domain awareness.

MSC Far East supports the U.S. 7th Fleet and ensures approximately 50 ships in the Indo-Pacific Region are manned, trained, and equipped to deliver essential supplies, fuel, cargo, and equipment to warfighters, both at sea and on shore.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, MSC exists to support the joint warfighter across the full spectrum of military operations, with a workforce that includes approximately 6,000 Civil Service Mariners and 1,100 contract mariners, supported by 1,500 shore staff and 1,400 active duty and Reserve military personnel.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Ng and Minister MacAulay statement on Canada’s CPTPP dairy tariff rate quota dispute with New Zealand

Source: Government of Canada News

Statement

The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, and the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, issued the following statement about Canada’s dairy tariff rate quota (TRQ) policies under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

October 19, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, and the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, issued the following statement about Canada’s dairy tariff rate quota (TRQ) policies under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

“Canada is very disappointed that New Zealand has decided to continue to challenge Canada’s dairy TRQ system. We have been through this before and have consistently and successfully defended our dairy sector and supply management from trade challenges under CUSMA and the CPTPP.

“The Government of Canada will always defend our supply management, firmly standing up for Canada’s dairy industry, farmers and workers and the communities they support.

“New Zealand continues to be an important, like-minded partner for Canada and we will engage in the process in good faith. We are confident that Canada’s new policies fulfill Canada’s obligation to eliminate the non-conformity identified by the panel.”

Associated links

Contacts

Huzaif Qaisar
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
343-575-8816
Huzaif.Qaisar@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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Media Relations
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
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Web: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Firearms incident, Wiri

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

An investigation is underway after a firearms incident in Wiri overnight has left one person injured.

Police were called about 1am to Felicia Place, after a report of a disorder incident involving two groups of people.

Shots were reportedly fired, and one of the groups left in a vehicle.

One person was discovered with minor injuries and was transported to hospital for assessment.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

Police would like to hear from anyone in the area who witnessed the incident, or who might have information to help with our enquiries.

If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

Please use the reference number 241020/5741.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Global Combat Air Programme update
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Defence Secretary John Healey attended the G7 Defence Ministers summit in Naples where he discussed progress on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
Defence Secretary John Healey today attended the G7 Defence Ministers summit in Naples, where he met with Italy’s Defence Minister Guido Crosetto and Japan’s Defence Minister Gen Nakatani to discuss the latest progress on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).

Mr Healey congratulated Gen Nakatani on his recent appointment, and all three ministers spoke of the importance of protecting regional peace and stability in an increasingly more dangerous world.

They welcomed the excellent progress being made by the GCAP industry partners and discussed the latest on preparations for the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO), now that the UK has successfully ratified the international treaty.

Once ratified in all three Parliaments, the treaty will enter into force and the GIGO can be established. This will be the next major milestone for the programme, and is due to take place before the end of this year.

UK Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

This meeting of G7 allies takes place amid huge global uncertainty and growing Russian aggression. In these serious times, serious international partnerships are vital.

It was a pleasure to meet my Japanese and Italian counterparts to discuss progress on our GCAP programme, including treaty ratification and other upcoming milestones.

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Published 19 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Attracting investment on agenda for Singapore trip

Source: New Zealand Government

Seeking investment to support the delivery of large regional projects is on the agenda for Regional Development and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones as he heads to Singapore to meet potential investors, business leaders and policymakers.

“Attracting more overseas investment is a vital part of the Coalition Government’s economic strategy. We are already taking steps to remove the barriers and red tape holding back international capital through measures such as reforming the overseas investment law,” Mr Jones says.

“New Zealand has close economic ties with Singapore, based on a history of trade and innovation, and it is recognised as a trusted and valuable partner and business destination. I want to hear about the opportunities investors and industry in Singapore are interested in exploring and share more about our work to develop a pipeline of investible infrastructure opportunities.

“This country is facing a massive infrastructure deficit. Foreign investment could play a significant role in closing the gap while benefiting our businesses and communities, particularly in our regions.”

During his visit, Mr Jones will meet Singaporean government representatives and participate in a ministerial leaders’ panel discussion at the Singapore International Energy Week forum, an annual platform for energy professionals, policymakers, and commentators to share best practices and solutions within the global energy sector.

“The forum focuses on ensuring a reliable and secure energy supply and promotes effective competition in the energy market which, in light of our recent domestic challenges, is at the forefront of many New Zealanders’ minds,” Mr Jones says.

“I look forward to contributing to that discussion by sharing New Zealand’s experiences.”

New Zealand and Singapore will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its bilateral diplomatic relations in 2025 and are working to elevate the New Zealand-Singapore Enhanced Partnership signed in 2019.

Mr Jones leaves for Singapore today and returns to New Zealand on 26 October.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation Hoon targets antisocial road users in Invercargill

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Invercargill Police have ordered 36 vehicles off the road after an operation across Friday and Saturday nights, targeting antisocial road users and illegally modified vehicles.

In executing this operation Police enlisted the support of VTNZ to inspect vehicles over the two nights, making use of legislation under the Land Transport Act which allows for vehicles stopped within five kilometres of a specified testing site to be directed there for an immediate inspection.

In leading this operation Road Policing Officer Senior Constable Paul Moylan noted how Invercargill Police have been focusing on a specific group of road users.

“This Operation has been planned to target vehicles and individuals that have been identified as belonging to a group organising ‘skid meets’ in rural locations around Invercargill.

“These drivers regularly congregate and ‘lap’ the Invercargill CBD area before heading out into rural areas.

“Aside from examples of extremely risky driving behaviour, many of these vehicles are illegally modified to the point where they are a danger to the drivers and every other motorist they share the road with.”

Operation Hoon certainly highlighted this, with 36 vehicles receiving pink or green stickers through the testing station.

One extreme example of illegal and unsafe modification seen by the team was the use of a pair of jandals as suspension bump stops.

Southern District Road Policing Manager Inspector Craig Brown says the results of the operation have shown Police’s intent in dealing with the ongoing issue of antisocial road use in Invercargill.

“These drivers pose an unnecessary risk to everyone on the road through their behaviour and the state of their vehicles.

“To get this many unsafe cars off the roads over just two evenings is a great success for our teams, and goes a long way in making sure we can keep the roads safer, and help other motorists feel safer too.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash following fleeing driver incident, Invercargill

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Please attribute to Southern District Commander Superintendent Jason Guthrie:

Three people have been seriously injured after a driver fleeing from Police collided with another vehicle in Invercargill overnight.

About 1.40am, Police attempted to stop a vehicle on Venus Street, Georgetown.

The driver failed to stop and fled from Police. Police did not engage in a pursuit due to the manner of driving.

A short time later the vehicle travelled through the intersection of Janet and Ness Streets and collided with another vehicle, the crash also caused damage to a property.

One occupant of the fleeing vehicle has sustained critical injuries, and the other has sustained serious injuries.

An occupant from the other vehicle has also sustained critical injuries, and another sustained minor injuries.

The Serious Crash Unit has examined the scene, and the road currently remains closed while staff work at the scene.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area unless you are a resident.

As standard practice the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority under the Memorandum of Understanding between Police and the Authority.

Police would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, or who might have dashcam or CCTV footage from the crash area the time of the crash.

If you can help, please update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number P060341410.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza Crisis – Last remaining hospitals in North Gaza under siege and population trapped – MSF

Source: Médecins Sans Frontières

20 October 2024 – “The northern part of the Strip has been under siege for over two weeks, it is absolutely crucial to ensure the protection of the few remaining functional healthcare facilities. People must be able to continue to access medical care and lifesaving treatments. We call on the Israeli forces to immediately stop their attacks on hospitals in North Gaza,” says Anna Halford, MSF emergency coordinator in Gaza.

According to the Ministry of Health and health workers on the ground, Israeli forces are currently besieging and targeting the Indonesian, Al-Awda and Kamal Adwan hospitals. More than 350 patients are reported to be trapped inside, including pregnant women and people who just underwent surgical operations. These patients require continuous medical treatment and are unable to leave.

“The ever-worsening escalation of violence and non-stop Israeli military operations that we have been witnessing over the past two weeks in northern Gaza have horrifying consequences,” says Halford. Tens of thousands of people remain trapped in Jabalia camp under daily bombing, including six of our staff unreachable due to electricity blackout, while one of our colleagues was killed after sustaining injuries from shrapnel. “When hospitals are attacked, their infrastructure destroyed, and the electricity cut off, the lives of patients and medical staff are under threat.”

Hundreds of people in need of vital care must urgently be evacuated as their lives are in danger. Essential items, including food, are only entering in quantities that are largely insufficient for the population in the north of the Strip.

“This is purely and simply a collective punishment imposed on Palestinians in Gaza, who must choose between being forcibly displaced from the North or killed. We fear that this will not stop,” says Halford.

“Israel’s all-out war on Gaza seems to have no end in sight. Israel’s allies bear a heavy responsibility for this dire situation, caused by their unwavering support for the war. They must immediately do everything in their power to obtain a sustained ceasefire. Not tomorrow, not in a week. Now,” says Halford.

MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Information sought – serious crash, Hawke’s Bay Expressway

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police are asking for the public’s help after a serious crash on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway that has left two people in critical condition.

Emergency services were called to the expressway about 11.35pm on Saturday after a three-car crash.

Two people from one vehicle were critically injured, and the driver of another vehicle sustained serious injuries.

The occupants from one of the vehicles fled the scene and have not yet been located.

It is believed they were picked up by another vehicle beyond the crash scene.

The Serious Crash Unit has examined the scene, and our enquiries are ongoing.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the crash, or who has information that might assist our enquiries.

We’d especially like to hear from anyone who has dashcam footage from around the time of the incident, which may have captured a white Mazda 6 station wagon or a green Ford Falcon travelling south on the Expressway.

If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

Please use the reference number P060340360.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MINISTER FOR HEALTH MR ONG YE KUNG TO MAKE WORKING VISIT TO CHINA

Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

Minister for Health, Mr Ong Ye Kung, will make a working visit to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, from 20 to 25 October 2024, at the invitation of Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Secretary of the CPC Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Regional Committee Ma Xingrui. Minister Ong and Secretary Ma used to co-chair the Singapore-Guangdong Collaboration Council, when the latter was Guangdong Governor.

2. Minister Ong will meet Secretary Ma and other senior officials. He will also visit local healthcare institutions. He will be accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry of Health.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: New advertising campaign calls for more young people to volunteer

Source: Ministers for Social Services

20 October 2024

The Albanese Labor Government has launched an awareness campaign today to encourage young people to consider taking up a volunteer role to strengthen the nation’s volunteering sector.

The campaign, called Hanging out to help out, will shine a light on the benefits of volunteering by challenging assumptions and highlighting the positive personal impacts for younger Australians.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of volunteering among young people ages 15-18 and showcases the diverse range of volunteering options, that it can be fun, done with friends and the personal development that results.

Advertising will be live from 20 October 2024 to 30 June 2025 across social media, digital video (YouTube music), digital audio (streaming and podcasts) and search activity.

Formal volunteering in Australia has been declining since 2010 and dropped sharply in 2020 at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 83 per cent of volunteer-involving organisations saying they need more volunteers.

Research shows there is currently limited awareness among 15–18-year-olds of the need for young volunteers, and limited understanding of the flexible and variable aspects of volunteering.

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth will today launch the campaign at the Glenelg Surf Life Saving Club in Adelaide.

Minister Rishworth said volunteering brough so many benefits to all those involved and particularly ensuring more young people could take up on volunteering opportunities was so important.

“Young people are the future of volunteering, they can make such a big difference in their communities and gain lifelong skills while making friendships along the way”, Minister Rishworth said.

“We know from research that people who participate in volunteering activities prior to entering the workforce makes a substantial difference in their participation rate for the rest of their lives.”

“Through this campaign, we want young Australians to consider the personal benefits of volunteering and the positive impact it can have on mental health and community participation, and social involvement more generally.”

The campaign will direct those interested in volunteering to potential opportunities near them and information on how they can access them.

The Albanese Government is investing over $81 million through its Volunteering and Community Connectedness programs through 30 June 2026 to support volunteering.

Last year The National Strategy for Volunteering, funded by the Department of Social Services, was launched which provides a blueprint for the next 10 years that will enable volunteering in Australia to thrive by providing strategic objectives for the sector and all governments to work towards.

To find out more visit volunteering.gov.au.

MIL OSI News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal water incident, Manukau Harbour

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

One person has died following a water incident on the Manukau Harbour this morning.

Police were alerted to a boat capsizing just before 10am.

Six other people were recovered from the water and are being treated by ambulance staff.

We wish to thank volunteers from Coastguard Waiuku, Coastguard Papakura and Auckland Coastguard Air Patrol for their assistance.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Indonesia’s new president, Prabowo Subianto, finds democracy ‘very tiring’. Are darker days ahead for the country?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Lindsey, Malcolm Smith Professor of Asian Law and Director of the Centre for Indonesian Law, Islam and Society, The University of Melbourne

Former General Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia’s eighth president today. Twenty-five years ago he was a pariah, and for good reason.

He faced accusations of human rights abuses in Papua and East Timor, and in 1998, special forces troops under his command had abducted democracy activists in Jakarta, 13 of whom have never been seen again. Those who did return had been tortured.

The students had been calling for the resignation of President Soeharto, Prabowo’s father-in-law, who finally stepped down in May 1998 after widespread rioting that many believe Prabowo helped engineer. Then, backed by troops under his command, Prabowo tried to storm the presidential palace, gun in hand, to threaten the new president, BJ Habibie.

Prabowo never went on trial for the disappearances of the activists, though he was banned from travelling to the United States for two decades.

And his cherished military career quickly ended – he was dismissed from the army for “misinterpreting orders”. Disgraced, and seen as embodying the violence and repression of Soeharto’s regime, Prabowo went into voluntary exile in Jordan. It seemed he had no future in the democratic Reformasi (reformation) system that began to emerge from the ruins of the repressive New Order.

But Prabowo was far from finished. His rehabilitation and extraordinary climb to the presidency may now signal the end of Indonesia’s fragile, aspirational liberal democracy and a return to the New Order model.

The end of Reformasi?

It is clear enough that Prabowo has no enthusiasm for democracy. He has said, for example, that it “very, very tiring” and “very, very messy and costly”.

Gerindra, the political party he founded and leads, even has, as its number one mission statement, a return to the Constitution “as stipulated on 18 August 1945”. This is the authoritarian original version of the Constitution that Soeharto relied on to rule. It did not guarantee human rights or a separation of powers, and it gave huge power to the president, who was not elected and had no term limit.

This Constitution was amended after Soeharto fell to bring in a liberal, democratic model. So, a return to the original 1945 Constitution would in itself likely end Indonesia’s hard-won, if troubled, democracy.

But Prabowo may not need to go this far to enjoy the sweeping power his former father-in-law exercised. Many of the elements of the New Order are already in place. Much of the work of dismantling Indonesia’s liberal democracy has already been done by the outgoing president, Joko Widodo (Jokowi), whose son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is now Prabowo’s vice president.

For example, a key pillar of the New Order was “dual function”, a doctrine that allowed serving military members to take civilian posts, allowing them to dominate the government. This was abolished after Soeharto fell.

But amendments to the civil service law passed last October again allow active members of the army and police to occupy civilian positions. Proposed amendments to the Indonesian National Army (TNI) Law now being debated could expand this. When questioned about the army’s return to civilian life, the armed forces commander welcomed the changes, saying the army would not be exercising a “dual function” but a “multi-function”.

Likewise, under Soeharto, repressive laws tightly restricted press freedom. Now, a controversial new criminal code that comes into force in 2026 will reinstate prohibitions on criticising the government that the Constitutional Court had previously struck out. A proposed new Broadcasting Law would also ban “broadcasting investigative journalism content”.

Under the New Order, civil society activism was also harshly restricted. In the last ten years under Jokowi, there has been a steady escalation of defamation actions and threats against government critics. And a law passed in 2017 allows the government to dissolve non-governmental organisations without any judicial process. Already, three NGOs have been banned.

Many activists now speak openly of their fear of being targeted and intimidated by government trolls or even the intelligence agencies. Others fear Prabowo will use his links to Muslim civil society organisations to pressure or delegitimise other groups he sees as critics.

Read more:
Journalists in Indonesia are being killed, threatened and jailed. A new draft law could make things even worse

Keeping the elites happy

Prabowo is also following in the footsteps of Soeharto and Jokowi by building a massive coalition in the national legislature, the DPR. More than 80% of members are already on board, with only one party holding out.

Prabowo will also expand his cabinet, allowing him to award places to supporters and co-opt others, including members of civil society. This will further weaken the opposition.

This kind of government of elite “unity” makes politics opaque. Political fights take place behind the scenes, resolved by power plays and deals before measures go to a vote. It would make the national legislature not much more than a rubber stamp, as it was under Soeharto.

This assumes Prabowo can manage Indonesia’s powerful political bosses – especially the feuding former presidents Megawati Soekarnoputri and Jokowi. Together, they now control the two biggest parties in the legislature (PDI-P and Golkar, respectively).

The still hugely popular Jokowi backed his former bitter enemy Prabowo in the February elections because he saw this as a way to maintain influence after he left office. But Prabowo will be reluctant to share real power with anyone for long. His relationship with Jokowi is likely to be one the biggest challenges to his rule.

Dealing with an obstructive court

One of the few remaining obstacles to Prabowo acquiring the sort of dictatorial powers Soeharto exercised is the Constitutional Court, which has the power to strike out laws. Prabowo will not want a non-compliant and obstructive (that is, independent) Constitutional Court. Already politicians are openly discussing the need to “assess its performance”.

If the legislature passes laws to weaken the court, the court could just strike them out, as it has done in the past.

But the court was established by the amendments to the original 1945 Constitution. This means that if government cannot pass laws to weaken the court, stack the court or intimidate independent judges, a return to the 1945 Constitution could be used to eliminate it.

Prabowo would need to feel his rule is secure and that he has the rock-solid support of the elites before doing this, but it is certainly possible. Returning to the original Constitution would simply require a two-thirds vote in the MPR, Indonesia’s highest representative assembly.

Bold promises on the economy

Soeharto’s system was based on a Faustian bargain that allowed him to rule corruptly and oppressively in return for high economic growth and development that lifted millions out of poverty.

Prabowo is likely to adopt the same approach. He campaigned on an annual GDP growth target of 8%, a rate reached under Soeharto, but never by subsequent governments. Jokowi also placed great emphasis on development (infrastructure in particular), but never got much above 5% growth per year.

Many are optimistic about the economy under the new president. Prabowo’s father was a prominent economist and a finance minister. Prabowo has also asked Jokowi’s highly-regarded finance minister, Sri Mulyani, to stay in her role.

However, Prabowo comes to office with some enormously expensive commitments that would make Sri Mulyani’s job extremely difficult. These include his free school lunches program (upwards of US$30 billion, or A$45 billion), which Sri Mulyani has publicly questioned, and Jokowi’s signature new capital city, Nusantara, currently under construction. (The initial phase alone will cost at least US$35 billion, or A$52 billion).

Moreover, Prabowo’s main priority will be to keep the elites happy and maintain his enormous coalition. His supporters and allies – including his brother, tycoon Hashim Djojohadikusumo who has funded his political career – will all demand access to concessions and lucrative appointments for their cronies to make good the vast amounts spent on the February elections. Rational economic policy-making will therefore be highly constrained.

Foreign investment has always been the key to high growth in Indonesia, but despite the constant rhetoric about Indonesia being open for business, it will undoubtedly remain protectionist in practice under Prabowo. That will likely make the 8% GDP annual growth target impossible.

More active foreign relations

Prabowo, who was educated overseas and speaks English fluently, feels comfortable on the global stage. He will want a more prominent place in world affairs for his country, reflecting its vast size and new status as a middle-income country.

As Jokowi’s defence minister, he was active internationally, even attempting to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. And, to his obvious delight, countries like the US that had previously denied him entry have congratulated him on his victory.

Prabowo’s main foreign affairs challenge will be the same as his predecessor’s: managing the difficult relationship with China.

Indonesians are deeply suspicious of China, an attitude driven by a potent mixture of deeply rooted racist attitudes, fear of communism and anxiety about China’s hegemonic ambitions. However, Indonesia is a major recipient of Belt and Road investments and the elite rely heavily on Chinese trade and investment.

Like Jokowi, Prabowo will have to manage this difficult balance.

Back to the future

Indonesian civil society leaders are already talking about the new administration as “New Order Volume II” or “neo-New Order”, and it is easy to see why. All the signs point to a continuation under Prabowo of the process begun under Jokowi: a slide towards something that looks much more like Soeharto’s system than the liberal democracy reformers tried to construct 25 years ago.

There is nothing in Prabowo’s past or his campaign promises to suggest otherwise. Perhaps the only question is how quickly it happens and how far he will go.

Tim Lindsey receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

– ref. Indonesia’s new president, Prabowo Subianto, finds democracy ‘very tiring’. Are darker days ahead for the country? – https://theconversation.com/indonesias-new-president-prabowo-subianto-finds-democracy-very-tiring-are-darker-days-ahead-for-the-country-241256

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parapet – Integrated Risk Management

Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

Headline: Parapet – Integrated Risk Management

Parapet has introduced a comprehensive suite of new Integrated Risk Management (IRM) solutions aimed at empowering businesses to better navigate the complexities of modern risk landscapes. Designed to address evolving regulatory requirements, operational risks, and cybersecurity threats, the new offerings provide companies with robust tools for risk assessment, compliance management, and business continuity planning. This launch underscores Parapet’s commitment to equipping organizations with innovative, user-friendly solutions that support sustainable growth and resilience.

The post Parapet – Integrated Risk Management first appeared on PR.co.nz.

– –

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointments to Museum Advisory Committee

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Appointments to Museum Advisory Committee
Appointments to Museum Advisory Committee
*******************************************

The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau announced today (October 20) appointments to the Museum Advisory Committee (MAC) and its three standing sub-committees, namely the Art Sub-committee (ASC), the History Sub-committee (HSC) and the Science Sub-committee (SSC), with the appointment of Professor Douglas So Cheung-tak as Chairperson of the MAC, Professor Desmond Hui Cheuk-kuen as Chairperson of the ASC, Professor Joshua Mok Ka-ho as Chairperson of the HSC and Professor Alexander Wai Ping-kong as the Chairperson of the SSC. All appointments are for a two-year term up to October 19, 2026. The MAC and its three standing sub-committees, established on October 20, 2016, comprise members of different backgrounds with a great wealth of professional expertise and experience relevant to the work of the museums, including professionals, academics, museum experts, collectors, art promoters, entrepreneurs, marketing and public relations experts, and community leaders. The MAC and its three standing sub-committees advise the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) on strategies for development, promotion and management of the public museums. A spokesman for the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau thanked all the Chairperson and members of the MAC and its standing sub-committees for their ardent support and invaluable contributions in the past years, including Professor Ching Pak-chung, the outgoing SSC Chairperson; nine outgoing MAC members (Mr Aaron Raj Chandrasakaran, Ms Liza Cheung Lai-sang, Dr Allen Fung Yuk-lun, Ms Elaine Kwok, Dr Kwong Chi-man, Mr Lau Hang-on, Mr Alan Lau Ka-ming, Ms Helen So Hiu-ming and Mr Eliott Hancock Suen), and six outgoing co-opted members (Ir Thomas Chan Kwok-cheung, Mr Chan Sing, Ms Fanny Iu Kai-fan, Mr Freeman Lau Siu-hong, Ms Lo Ning and Mr James Mok Hon-fai), and looked forward to receiving the valuable advice of the new MAC and its standing sub-committees on the development of the public museums. The membership list and terms of reference of the MAC are as follows: ChairpersonProfessor Douglas So Cheung-tak MembersProfessor Karen Chan Ka-yin*Mr Michael Chan Sze-wahMs Rowena Cheung Po-manMs Amanda Cheung Zee-yin*Mr Chiu Tsang-heiMr Stanley Choi Tak-shing*Dr Crystal Fok Lo-mingMs Elizabeth Fung Hoi-yung*Mr Andy Hei Kao-chiangProfessor Desmond Hui Cheuk-kuenMr Christopher Kwok Kai-wang*Mr Edmund Lai Man-kitMs Tendy Lam Pui-tung*Mr Lam Shu-kam*Ms Josephine Lee Yuk-chiMr James Li Tsz-shu*Mr Warren Luk HuaMs Erica Ma YunProfessor Joshua Mok Ka-hoMs Joyce Ng Sheung-ching*Ms Provides Ng Tsing-yin*Dr Ng Tsz-yanDr Chloe Suen Yin-wahMr James Tong Wai-pongProfessor Alexander Wai Ping-kong*Dr Jimmy Wong Kam-yiuMs Anna Yau Wai-yu Official MembersRepresentative of Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau*Representative of Tourism Commission*Representative of Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency*Representative of Education Bureau*Representative of Leisure and Cultural Services Department* *Newly appointed Members Terms of Reference To advise the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services on a wide range of subject matters concerning the public museums and related offices managed by the LCSD:

positioning, image-building and branding;
business development strategies including but not limited to acquisition and use of museum collections, organisation of exhibitions and education programmes, identification of research projects, sponsorship and partnership initiatives;
marketing and publicity strategies on the promotion of the museums both locally, in the Mainland and overseas;
development of community engagement strategies to reach out to a wider community and stakeholders (e.g. local artists, collectors, local and overseas museums, cultural organisations, and educational institutions);
measures to strengthen the operational efficiency and accountability of public museums; and
any other matters as proposed by the LCSD.

The membership lists and terms of reference of the three standing sub-committees are attached in Annexes 1 to 3.

Ends/Sunday, October 20, 2024Issued at HKT 9:00

NNNN

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice president meets with Indonesian President Joko Widodo

Source: China State Council Information Office

Visiting Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Saturday.

At the invitation of the Indonesian government, Han, as the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping, will attend the inauguration of President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta on Sunday and visit Indonesia from Saturday to Monday.

Han pointed out that the past 10 years have witnessed high-level development of China-Indonesia relations, and the two heads of state have jointly led the upgrading of China-Indonesia relations into a new era of building a community with a shared future.

Han said China is willing to work with Indonesia to carry forward the fine tradition of bilateral friendship and cooperation, deepen all-round strategic coordination, jointly promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, ensure smooth operation of major cooperation projects such as the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway, continuing to write a new chapter of solidarity, cooperation and mutual benefit.

It is hoped and believed that President Joko will, as always, support the development of bilateral relations and contribute to carrying forward the traditional friendship between the two countries, Han said.

Joko said that in recent years, the comprehensive strategic partnership between Indonesia and China has been developing with sound momentum and bilateral cooperation has achieved fruitful results.

Noting the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway is a landmark cooperation project between the two countries and a symbol of their friendship, Joko said Indonesia is willing to make joint efforts with China to continue to ensure efficient operation of the railway.

Indonesia attaches great importance to developing relations with China, he said, noting that under the leadership of the new Indonesian government, bilateral relations will continue to be lifted to new levels.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Navy Relieves U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan Regional Maintenance Center Commanding Officer and Executive Officer

Source: United States Navy

Rear Adm. William Greene, commander of Navy Regional Maintenance Center, relieved Capt. Zaldy Valenzuela and Cmdr. Art Palalay of duties as SRF-JRMC commanding officer and executive officer, respectively. Capt. Dan Lannamann has temporarily assumed command. Cmdr. Timothy Emge, SRF-JRMC’s operations officer, has assumed the position of executive officer until a permanent replacement is selected.

The Navy holds commanding officers and others in authority to the highest standards. Naval leaders are entrusted with significant responsibilities to their Sailors and commands.

SRF-JRMC is located in Yokosuka, Japan and provides intermediate-level and depot-level repair for Navy ships and U.S. 7th Fleet.

For additional questions, please contact the Naval Sea Systems Command public affairs officer, Susan Mainwaring at susan.a.mainwaring.civ@us.navy.mil

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Iran holds int’l short film festival

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

The 41st Tehran International Short Film Festival (TISFF) kicked off on Friday in the Iranian capital, the official news agency IRNA reported.

According to IRNA, 107 short works will compete for top awards in the festival’s international section.

The submitted works, including 59 fiction films, 21 animated movies, 18 documentaries, and nine experimental films, were from India, China, Poland, the United States, Egypt, Greece, France, Palestine, Türkiye, Spain, Argentina, Brazil, Russia, Australia, Japan, Germany, Italy and Cuba.

Held for consecutively over the past four decades, the TISFF is one of the oldest short film festivals in the region.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Shaolin festival opens with over 2,500 kung fu practitioners

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

The opening ceremony of the 13th Zhengzhou International Shaolin Wushu Festival was held in Dengfeng of Zhengzhou, Henan province, on Saturday.

With 2,560 kung fu practitioners from 56 countries and regions participating in the competition, the festival provides an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and culture of Shaolin kung fu.

Sven Husmann, 50, expressed his enthusiasm for attending the opening ceremony, emphasizing the event’s role as cross-cultural exchange and mutual learning.

“We aim to get the spirit of this festival and carry it back to Germany upon our return to Europe,” he remarked,

The festival showcased a diverse range of activities, including traditional Shaolin Wushu competitions, an international fight competition, and US-China youth training camp.

People also witnessed Khmer Boxing, a traditional Cambodian martial art, at the Shaolin Temple.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Anniversary of Equal Pay Act shows we have more to do

Source: New Zealand Government

The anniversary of the Equal Pay Act is a reminder that we still have work to do to achieve equality for women across this country, Minister for Women Nicola Grigg says.

“Today marks the anniversary of the Equal Pay Act that was introduced in 1972. Over the past few decades, pay equity in New Zealand has improved, but women are still paid on average 8.2 per cent less than men.

“While we have made significant progress, there is still work to do and we must continue to keep the pressure on this issue. My ambitions for the future are that there would be no pay gap in the public and private sector, and that is what we should all work towards.

“Recent data shows that, at 6.1 per cent, the public service gender pay gap is the lowest it has ever been, and has halved since 2018. Across New Zealand the pay gap is trending downwards but while this is a wonderful achievement, we cannot be complacent.

“It requires continuous efforts across the public and private sector to ensure that we can continue to see results. This can be achieved by supporting women into leadership, lifting incomes, and providing businesses with the tools to calculate, understand and address their gender pay gaps.

“In June our Government announced that we are developing a pay gap calculation tool in partnership with business so that there is a consistent method for businesses to calculate their pay gaps and take steps to address them.

“Groups like the Global Women and Champions for Change are proving the benefits of promoting women in leadership and addressing pay gaps, including better financial performance and decision making. This work continues to be supported by the Ministry for Women.

“I am excited to say that we will have an announcement on the pay gap calculation tool in the coming weeks.

“We know that gender pay gaps are complex, nuanced – and stubborn – which is why bringing sunlight to the issue is essential to creating meaningful and sustainable change. As calculating pay gaps will not fix the issue in silo, our Government is also focused on growing the economy and providing women more choice and freedom in their careers through schemes like FamilyBoost and raising parental leave by 6 per cent.

“Women deserve to be paid fairly and to be supported to succeed, and we are doing everything we can to ensure this happens,” Ms Grigg says.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mountaineering Safety Promotion Day 2024 and 55th Anniversary of the CAS Mountain Search and Rescue Company held (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Civil Aid Service (CAS) held the Mountaineering Safety Promotion Day 2024 and the 55th Anniversary of the CAS Mountain Search and Rescue Company with various government departments and mountaineering organisations today (October 20) at the Free Space, Kwun Tong Town Centre with a view to enhancing public awareness of hiking safety and reducing accidents arising from mountaineering activities amid celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

     Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Siu Chak-yee, said that the mountaineering safety promotion day can help members of the public acquire essential safety knowledge and skills, and enhance their awareness of potential dangers. He praised the CAS for its outstanding contribution to protecting the lives of hikers as an indispensable member of Hong Kong’s emergency rescue system. At the opening ceremony, Mr Siu also presented certificates to those who had successfully completed the Mountain Casualty Handling Course and awarded a trophy to the winning team of the 55th Anniversary of the CAS Mountain Search and Rescue Company Competition.

     Other attending guests included the Director of Fire Services, Mr Andy Yeung, as well as representatives from the Government Flying Service; the Auxiliary Medical Service; the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department; the Office of the Communications Authority; the Hong Kong Observatory; the Leisure and Cultural Services Department; the Lands Department and various mountaineering organisations.

     Game booths were set up to promote mountaineering safety, whereas a wide range of mountaineering equipment, such as digital maps, watches for recording rescuer locations, high-resolution live broadcasting cameras and the Unmanned Aircraft System, were showcased. In addition, to enhance public understanding of mountain rescue work, CAS members also demonstrated techniques of mountain search and rescue missions and handling procedures of injured persons. To mark the 55th anniversary of the CAS Mountain Search and Rescue Company this year, a designated booth was also set up to introduce the Mountain Search and Rescue Company as well as showcase the equipment used over the years.

     Other highlights included a rescue demonstration by the Fire Services Department rescue dogs and a performance by police dogs. A recruitment exercise of CAS adult members and cadets was also conducted at the event.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – 450 health jobs to go even where managers can’t afford to lose staff
Source: PSA

About 450 health workers both on the front line and in essential supporting roles will take voluntary redundancy, with more job losses expected as government budget cuts continue to bite, the PSA says.

And PSA members are reporting that amongst the approximately 450 redundancies there are a substantial number who were given voluntary redundancy even though their redundancy applications were not approved by their line managers.

This occurred because senior management overturned line managers’ decisions. Amongst this group are many front-line hospital workers, Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Organiser Ashok Shankar says.

“While line managers know they can’t afford to lose staff, job cuts are continuing at any cost,” Shankar says.

Redundancies impact frontline staff in hospitals and specialist services, and essential support staff in planning and funding, and national public health.

“The redundancy process has been done irrespective of the impacts on service delivery. The data shows essential workers will be impacted. This means public health, safety and wellbeing will be impacted too. It also shows the health sector can’t afford to lose these essential people and if the government wishes to keep the nation healthy, cuts need to stop.

A hiring freeze is also negatively impacting those who remain in health employment. Positions have been left vacant and remaining staff are picking up the shortfall, working unpaid overtime, and skipping breaks and meals. Clinical staff are concerned that loss of these workers on the frontline will impact their ability to deliver care.

Shankar says the situation is unsustainable.

“Redundancies mean remaining staff are heading towards burnout and this poses a threat to public health and safety.

“The staffing cuts are impacting essential services and it’s not too late for the government to reverse its decision on health cuts.

“A lack of staff poses a real and imminent threat to public health and safety. It is clear fatigue, and frustration are growing, and the burden of this is weighing heavily not just on health workers, but also communities.

“It’s been a difficult time for the health sector, and for those who have dedicated their lives to caring for our communities. Their work is vital for the health, wellbeing and safety of all New Zealanders.

“The community has already started to feel the effect of these cuts, but there is more to come. We are at breaking point in more ways than one. A strong, robust, well-staffed health sector is vital for not only the imminent future, but for the future generations of Aotearoa.

“We implore the government to change its perspective on its cuts to health,” Shankar says.

By the numbers:

Total number of expressions of interest received across the sector: approximately 860

Total number of voluntary redundancies accepted to date: approximately 450.

The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health and community groups.
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Another squirrel monkey dies

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Leisure & Cultural Services Department (LCSD) announced that the other Common Squirrel Monkey at the Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Gardens (HKZBG) that was put under isolated surveillance was found dead today.

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department (AFCD) will conduct a necropsy on the animal to ascertain if the cause of death was the same as the earlier cases.

A total of 11 animals at the HKZBG have passed away since October 13.

At present, one De Brazza’s Monkey that has been isolated since October 13 remains under isolated surveillance and is being given medication.

The LCSD will keep the HKZBG’s Mammals Section closed to monitor the health conditions of the animals, and continue to provide protective gear and health monitoring for staff who take care of animals. At present, the health conditions of the staff concerned are normal.

The LCSD added that it has all along been communicating with the Department of Health’s Centre for Health Protection and the AFCD to ensure that appropriate protective measures are taken.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: More than money: The geopolitics behind Saudi Arabia’s sports strategy

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Aaron Ettinger, Associate Professor, International Relations, Carleton University

There’s a saying in sports journalism: “The answer to all your questions is money.” But in the case of Saudi Arabia’s massive sports investment programs during the reign of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, money is not the whole story.

In a simple sense, there is a clear profit motive. With US$925 billion in assets in 2023, Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund exists to convert oil revenues into even greater national income.

Last year, the country’s Public Investment Fund reported $36.8 billion in profits. Since 2016, it has spent $51 billion on sports properties.

The point is not to turn bin Salman into the world’s greatest sports impresario. Rather, it’s that he’s seeking to improve the economic and geopolitical situation of Saudi Arabia through sports investments while ensuring the long-term survival of the Saudi regime.

Beyond Newcastle United, LIV Golf

Investing in sports is a common way for developing countries to announce their arrival on the global stage. Instead of one-and-done mega events, Saudi Arabia is pursuing a more dispersed and diverse approach.

The Public Investment Fund’s highest profile investments are well known, especially the 2021 purchase of Newcastle United of the English Premier League and the LIV golf tour that challenged the PGA’s decades-long dominance of the sport.

Beyond golf and soccer, Saudi Arabia has also spent dizzying sums on lower profile investments in esports, wrestling and motorsports. In other games, like chess and snooker, the profit motive is less clear.

The logical conclusion is that Saudi Arabia treats its sports investments as a loss leader — an unprofitable activity meant to stimulate more profitable activity somewhere else. In the words of Public Investment Fund’s 2022 annual report, international investment pools “allow Saudi Arabia to extend its global reach and influence.”

But what does that really mean?

‘Sportswashing’

The conventional term for Saudi Arabia’s strategy is sportswashing, the practice of reputation-laundering in the hopes that a cleaner national image will translate into soft power on the world stage.

Read more:
Sportswashing is just about everywhere – but it may be backfiring on the countries that do it

But that explanation doesn’t go far enough. For bin Salman, the suite of sports investments and properties is only a small part of a larger strategy to prepare Saudi Arabia for a 21st century when global oil demand is expected to fall by mid-century and geopolitics will become more complicated.

This is no secret: Saudi Arabia’s official grand strategy — Vision 2030 — envisions the complete modernization of the country’s economy and foreign policy. Saudi Arabia’s sports diplomacy is therefore part of a broader geopolitical strategy to prepare Saudi Arabia for an era of multipolarity, when power is distributed among several states.

Sports diplomacy also normalizes western financial and political engagement with the Saudi regime. Internationally, bin Salman wants to cultivate economic and security relationships with entities whose interests align with those of the Saudi royal family and the Saudi state, thereby ensuring the long-term health of both.

Regular interactions between Saudi Arabia and the West create an understanding that Riyadh is a “normal” place to do business — and if it’s good business, there is no reason to risk the relationship with too much rancour over its authoritarianism and abysmal human rights record. Sports investing, in short, is a Saudi hedge against western abandonment.

The allure of the big payday

To western eyes, the most troubling implication of Saudi sports investment is the normalization of authoritarian capitalism — economic freedom without political freedom — as a feature of the emerging international order.

Along with China, Russia, Singapore and others, Saudi Arabia represents an alternative to western democratic capitalism as a pathway to development.

This would be surprising to a previous generation of scholars and policymakers who once thought that free markets and free societies were a self-reinforcing phenomenon.

But given the staying power of authoritarian capitalism, doing business with dictators and strongmen has become inevitable and even desirable in some cases. In the sports world, few have resisted the charms of a huge payday.

Closely related to authoritarian capitalism is democratic backsliding. Around the world, the quality of democracy and freedom is eroding, and the slow-drip normalization of economic intercourse with authoritarian capitalists is part of that erosion.

Read more:
Could the world’s autocrats successfully plot to defeat the West?

How to proceed?

So can anything be done? Western states have options, but they’re limited.

After all, Saudi Arabia’s investments are legal and eagerly sought after by both private and public sectors.

Western officials can put up resistance to the awarding of mega events to authoritarian states. But mewling about problematic hosts means little unless liberal democracies are prepared to pay the hosting costs themselves, which they are increasingly unwilling to do.

Meanwhile, authoritarians are eager to host mega events and attract the prestige that comes with them. Currently, for example, Saudi Arabia is the sole bidder for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Countries could try regulatory intervention to delimit the extent of Saudi influence. National security is often used as a pretext for blocking foreign investments in strategically important sectors, like ports and 5G wireless networks.

Saudi plan is working

But golf and video games do not rise to the level of national security concern, so American regulators are unlikely to step in. Political intervention from the United States Congress or the White House is even less likely. Saudi Arabia is a key part of the American strategy on the Middle East to confront Iran, and quibbling too intensely about human rights or sports investment is not worth the strategic costs.

The genius of Saudi Arabia’s enterprise is that it’s power projection by consent. Investors and fans want what bin Salman is selling, governments have limited recourse and critics are left to grasp at standard, out-dated arguments.

For Saudi Arabia, however, its sports charm offensive is about more than money. It’s about an investment in the future prosperity and security of the kingdom and the longevity of the Saudi dynasty. So far, the plan is working.

Aaron Ettinger does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. More than money: The geopolitics behind Saudi Arabia’s sports strategy – https://theconversation.com/more-than-money-the-geopolitics-behind-saudi-arabias-sports-strategy-240512

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 24, 2025