NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Expressions of Interest called for Tonkin Highway interchanges

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    The transformation of Tonkin Highway continues to progress, with an Expression of Interest released today for contractors to tender for upgrades planned south of Roe Highway.

    The project will see grade-separated interchanges constructed at Hale Road and Welshpool Road, and the highway widened to a six-lane dual carriageway between Roe Highway and north of Kelvin Road, improving safety and reducing delays along the heavily congested route.

    A Principal Shared Path will also be added to the eastern side of Tonkin Highway with shared path connections to adjacent communities.

    Tonkin Highway is a key transport corridor connecting the city’s industrial centres including international ports, airports, intermodal rail freight terminals and major industrial lands. More than 50,000 vehicles use this section of Tonkin Highway every day, of which 13 per cent are heavy vehicles. 

    Due to this travel demand, congestion is high and growing, with Tonkin Highway projected to have the fifth-highest ‘delay cost’ of all major road corridors across Western Australia by 2031.

    A Design and Construct Contract is expected to be awarded in mid-2025, with construction to start in late 2025.

    The project is expected to support around 2,500 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase.

    The $366 million project is jointly funded by the Australian ($293 million) and State ($73 million) governments.

    Development work is also ongoing for an interchange at Kelvin Road to be delivered in the future, following environmental approvals.

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

    “Our Government is busy at work delivering on what WA needs for the future.

    “Right across the State we’re investing in roads and infrastructure which will improve travel times and safety, and Tonkin Highway will be an important addition to that suite of upgrades.

    “It will also create thousands of jobs in the local community and unlock training opportunities for Western Australians wanting to obtain new skills.”

    Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

    “The Tonkin Highway Interchanges project forms part of our broader Tonkin Highway Transformation program, to support long-term transport and infrastructure planning along Perth’s eastern road corridor.

    “This stretch of Tonkin Highway is a notorious bottleneck, particularly the intersection with Welshpool Road which regularly rates as one of the worst for congestion.

    “Tonkin Highway is a major freight route in the Perth metropolitan region, but with significant congestion, our Government is taking action to make this road smoother, safer and more efficient.

    “This project will complement the Tonkin Gap Project, which recently reached completion, and is providing commuters with faster travel times and a safer journey.

    “This important upgrade project will improve safety and the movement of freight and people by creating free-flowing traffic conditions.”

    Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Burt Matt Keogh:

    “I’ve been advocating for years on behalf of our community to make Tonkin Highway faster and safer, and I’m glad the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments are working together on this important project for Perth’s South Eastern suburbs.

    “The congestion on Tonkin Highway has been increasing for years, these upgrades will make a massive difference for our growing community. I can’t wait to see works get underway.

    “Only Labor is making the infrastructure investments we need to build a better Burt.”

    Quotes attributed to State Member for Forrestfield Stephen Price:

    “People in my community are heavily impacted by the congestion build up along this section of Tonkin Highway, which is why it’s critical we take action to make travel on this road smoother and safer for all.

    “Whilst these changes will significantly improve this section of Tonkin Highway, they will cause some disruption from mid-2025, so we will be engaging closely with the community to inform them about likely impacts.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Deaths of eight animals probed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Leisure & Cultural Services Department said today that eight animals were found dead yesterday in the Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Gardens (HKZBG), adding that necropsy and laboratory tests were arranged immediately to ascertain the causes of their deaths.

    The dead animals include one De Brazza’s Monkey, one Common Squirrel Monkey, three Cotton-top Tamarins and three White-faced Sakis.

    The department said it had liaised with the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department on the matter.

    It added that with the test results pending the Mammals Section of the HKZBG has been closed from today for disinfection and cleaning.

    The department will closely monitor the health conditions of other animals. Other facilities in the HKZBG remain open.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI to conduct 4-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction under LAF on October 14, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    On a review of the current and evolving liquidity conditions, it has been decided to conduct a Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction on October 14, 2024, Monday, as under:

    Sl. No. Notified Amount
    (₹ crore)    		 Tenor
    (day)    		 Window Timing Date of Reversal
    1 75,000 4 12:00 Noon to 12:30 PM October 18, 2024
    (Friday)

    2. The operational guidelines for the auction as given in the Reserve Bank’s Press Release 2019-2020/1947 dated February 13, 2020 will remain the same.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1280

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: India coronary stent market set for 4% CAGR growth during 2024-2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    India coronary stent market set for 4% CAGR growth during 2024-2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Medical Devices

    As coronary artery disease (CAD) cases continue to rise in India, the demand for advanced treatment options such as drug-eluting stents (DES) is gaining momentum. Against this backdrop, India coronary drug eluting stent market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4% from 2024 to 2033, forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report “Coronary Stents Market Size by Segments, Share, Regulatory, Reimbursement, Procedures and Forecast to 2033” reveals that India’s coronary drug eluting stent market accounts for around 32% of the Asia-Pacific market in 2024.

    Sahajanand Medical Technologies (SMT), an India-based developer and manufacturer of minimally invasive coronary stent systems, has recently received approval from the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for its flagship drug-eluting stent, Supraflex Cruz. This approval enables SMT to expand into the highly regulated Australian market, highlighting India’s growing influence in the global medical device sector.

    Kanchan Chauhan, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While drug eluting stents have significantly improved patient outcomes, treating tortuous and calcified lesions remains a challenge due to the complex structure of the vessels. Stents with enhanced flexibility, ultrathin struts, and lower crossing profiles are designed to address these challenges more effectively by reducing complications such as restenosis and promoting faster recovery. Increasing the availability of such advanced solutions is crucial for enhancing cardiovascular care.”

    Supraflex Cruz delivers a combination of the sirolimus drug and a biodegradable polymer promoting faster vessel healing and reducing the risk of restenosis. The stent has been approved in over 80 countries, and with the recent TGA approval, it is set to be introduced in Australia, further solidifying its reputation for safety and efficacy.

    Chauhan concludes: “As India continues to innovate in the cardiovascular space, the international success of devices such as Supraflex Cruz highlights the country’s growing presence in cardiovascular market. With increasing foreign interest and a developing domestic market, India has the potential to enhance its role in the global medical device industry.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Consumer demand for novelty and customization compels brands to explore new product segments in India, finds GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Consumer demand for novelty and customization compels brands to explore new product segments in India, finds GlobalData

    Posted in Consumer

    Novelty and experimentation trends have changed the consumption patterns of consumers. Consequently, brands are continuously innovating in line with the growing personalization trend to maintain consumer interest while gaining a competitive edge over the rivals in India. New market disruption will help the brands tap into emerging markets and enhance their relevance, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Savitha Kruttiventi, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Brands need to ensure they meet consumers’ needs and expectations of novelty and uniqueness along with the important dietary considerations. In line with this, Keventers, an India-based milkshake and ice cream brand, launched waffles for the first time as part of its expansion strategy. These 100% vegetarian waffles are available in six different flavors and cater to consumers who have special dietary preferences such as vegetarians. The brand also allows consumers to customize their waffles with their favorite ice cream toppings. The manufacturer leveraged its brand image to enter a new product segment.”

    Francis Gabriel Godad, Consumer Business Development Manager, GlobalData India, notes: “In the current competitive landscape, it is extremely important to prioritize innovation to thrive. Manufacturers must focus on launching products that are innovative and align with consumers’ preferences to create deeper connections with them. In GlobalData’s 2024 Q2 consumer survey, 74% of Indian consumers admit that they find novelty/uniqueness to be an essential feature influencing purchase decisions^.

    “Consumers in India are actively on the lookout for the brands that give them options to customize according to their interest. 65% of Indian consumers admit that their purchase decisions are always or often influenced by products’ alignment with their needs and personality. Hence, brands need to embrace customization to have a higher chance of enhancing their customer satisfaction and brand loyalty among consumers.”

    Kruttiventi concludes: “Consumers are seeking novel products that align with customization and personalization trends. This highlights the need for the brands to adapt and innovate to retain their customer base. Brands that emphasize these factors tend to gain a competitive edge and attain success in the long run.”

    ^GlobalData 2024 Q2 Consumer Survey – India, published in July 2024, with 897 respondents

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APAC EV infrastructure market to expand at 13.5% CAGR over 2024-29, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    APAC EV infrastructure market to expand at 13.5% CAGR over 2024-29, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Automotive

    Governments worldwide currently face the challenge of creating the strong infrastructure required to accelerate the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is experiencing significant growth in this area, with China leading as a major EV market and boasting an extensive infrastructure. Government agencies and private entities in other nations in the region, such as South Korea, India, Japan, and Indonesia, are also actively participating and investing in the expansion of charging station networks. Against this backdrop, the APAC EV infrastructure market is expected to record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5% over 2024–29, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Global Sector Overview & Forecast: EV Infrastructure Q3 2024,” reveals that the automotive EV infrastructure market covering two types of charging stations, fast charging stations powered by direct current and slow charging stations powered by alternating current, is estimated at 3.3 million units in 2024 and is forecast to reach 6.2 million units by 2029 in the APAC region.

    Madhuchhanda Palit, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “To facilitate the widespread adoption of EVs in the APAC region, it is critical to enhance the EV charging infrastructure. Considering that APAC is the most densely populated region in the world, the prospect of long wait times at charging stations may deter potential EV consumers. Therefore, to achieve the electrification goals set by the governments of APAC countries and to drive EV adoption, there is an urgent need to augment the quantity of EV charging stations, with a particular focus on fast charging stations.”

    Several initiatives are underway to address the need to expand EV infrastructure. For instance, Volt, an EV charging company within the infrastructure division of Singapore-based Keppel, announced in July 2024, the deployment of a new fast-charging hub in the country. This hub features ratings of 360 kilowatts and 120 kilowatts, enabling electric cars to be charged in as little as 10 minutes.

    Palit adds: “The expansion of fast-charging stations for EVs is essential, but there is also a pressing need to ensure equitable distribution across the nation. This distribution challenge has impeded EV adoption, even in countries like China, which is the world’s largest EV market. In China, the concentration of EV charging infrastructure in urban areas far exceeds that in rural areas. This disparity may discourage potential EV customers in rural areas and those planning longer journeys.”

    Additionally, the overabundance of chargers in urban areas can lead to underutilization, while those along highways and in rural areas may not meet peak demand during holidays, resulting in potential profit loss and job cuts for EV charging businesses in both urban and rural settings.

    A significant percentage of EV charging stations still rely on electrical power produced using fossil fuels, which can limit the environmental benefits of EVs. However, the landscape has changed significantly in recent years, with multiple initiatives by both the public and private sectors to transition the power source to renewable energy. For example, in India, The Climate Pledge, co-founded by Amazon and Global Optimism, announced in September 2024, an investment of $2.7 million in a new project, the Joint Operation Unifying Last-mile Electrification (JOULE), to build a network of shared EV charging stations powered by renewable energy in Bengaluru.

    Recognizing the concerns and needs for growth in the sector, multiple innovations are being introduced at various stages of implementation. For instance, crowdsourced EV charging, V2G power management, and bidirectional charging are some of the innovations in the early stages of development with steadily rising adoption rates. Meanwhile, EV inductive charging and dual-voltage charging stations are examples of innovations in the maturing stage, which have become well-established within the industry.

    Palit concludes: “Establishing adequate infrastructure is a time-sensitive matter, and the pace of progress varies among different nations. The increasing demand for EVs, coupled with substantial investments and research and development efforts, is expected to drive significant growth in the EV infrastructure sector in the near future.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Thomas Road upgrades delivering safer, faster travel

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Both heavy vehicle drivers and regular commuters are now enjoying safer and smoother travel along Thomas Road, south of Perth, thanks to the completion of an $81 million upgrade.

    The south-east is an important and fast-growing area, with large volumes of heavy vehicles and other through traffic travelling to and from the South West and Wheatbelt regions.

    Both projects were jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments.

    The program of works commenced in early 2022, with a range of improvements delivered including:

    • dual carriageway between Kwinana Freeway and Bombay Boulevard;
    • construction of a roundabout at Bombay Boulevard and a four-metre-wide pedestrian and cyclist path with lighting;
    • construction of a dual lane roundabout at Thomas Road and Nicholson Road and upgrades on approach to the intersection;
    • construction of a dual lane roundabout at Thomas Road and Kargotich Road;
    • additional street lighting between Bombay Boulevard and Kargotich Road; and
    • added safety measures between Kwinana Freeway and Cumming Road including shoulder widening, new line markings, raised reflectors and resurfacing.

    The final package of works involved the construction of new two-lane roundabouts at the intersections of Nicholson and Kargotich Road.

    The new roundabouts will improve safety and traffic efficiency for the more than 19,000 vehicles that pass through the intersections daily.

    Further upgrades are planned for the road through the Tonkin Highway Extension, which is expected to commence construction next year.

    The State and Federal Governments have also delivered a new traffic bridge over the rail line on Thomas Road as part of the METRONET Byford Rail Extension project, removing a level crossing and significantly improving road safety in the area.

    Quotes attributed to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

    “The Australian Government will continue to partner with the Western Australian Government to deliver upgrades that will increase road safety, reduce congestion and improve travel times.

    “The completion of the Thomas Road upgrades ensures the best possible outcome for motorists and heavy vehicle traffic for this fast-growing region, now and into the future.”

    Quotes attributed to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

    “Thomas Road is a critical route for both the movement of freight and for local communities, which is why we implemented this program of works to make the road safer for all.

    “The safety upgrades have included additional lanes, more street lighting and roundabouts – all of which will provide a safer and smoother journey for road users.

    “These upgrades will improve traffic flow and reduce congestion while making it safer for heavy vehicles, including oversize, over-mass loads, to traverse this key freight route.

    “These upgrades are just one example of how our Government is investing to make the road network safer for everyone in the community.”

    Quotes attributed to Federal Member for Burt Matt Keogh:

    “It’s fantastic that the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments are delivering the infrastructure investment our community needs to keep business and people moving.

    “Bottlenecks on Thomas Road have been an issue for residents in Byford and Oakford for some time. Thanks to these upgrades, people will now be able to get between work and home safely and quickly.”

    Quotes attributed to State Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones:

    “Road safety remains a critical issue for people in our community, and I am thrilled to see this important project reach completion.

    “Our Government is investing billions of dollars to improve the transport infrastructure for communities in the Darling Range electorate, including the METRONET Byford Rail Extension and the Tonkin Highway Extension and Thomas Road Upgrade.

    “These projects will fundamentally transform our community, and my focus is to get them delivered, so people can start to enjoy the benefits.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia has led the way regulating gene technology for over 20 years. Here’s how it should apply that to AI

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Powles, Associate Professor of Law and Technology; Director, UWA Tech & Policy Lab, Law School, The University of Western Australia

    Since 2019, the Australian Department for Industry, Science and Resources has been striving to make the nation a leader in “safe and responsible” artificial intelligence (AI). Key to this is a voluntary framework based on eight AI ethics principles, including “human-centred values”, “fairness” and “transparency and explainability”.

    Every subsequent piece of national guidance on AI has spun off these eight principles, imploring business, government and schools to put them into practice. But these voluntary principles have no real hold on organisations that develop and deploy AI systems.

    Last month, the Australian government started consulting on a proposal that struck a different tone. Acknowledging “voluntary compliance […] is no longer enough”, it spoke of “mandatory guardrails for AI in high-risk settings”.

    But the core idea of self-regulation remains stubbornly baked in. For example, it’s up to AI developers to determine whether their AI system is high risk, by having regard to a set of risks that can only be described as endemic to large-scale AI systems.

    If this high hurdle is met, what mandatory guardrails kick in? For the most part, companies simply need to demonstrate they have internal processes gesturing at the AI ethics principles. The proposal is most notable, then, for what it does not include. There is no oversight, no consequences, no refusal, no redress.

    But there is a different, ready-to-hand model that Australia could adopt for AI. It comes from another critical technology in the national interest: gene technology.

    A different model

    Gene technology is what’s behind genetically modified organisms. Like AI, it raises concerns for more than 60% of the population.

    In Australia, it’s regulated by the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator. The regulator was established in 2001 to meet the biotech boom in agriculture and health. Since then, it’s become the exemplar of an expert-informed, highly transparent regulator focused on a specific technology with far-reaching consequences.

    Three features have ensured the gene technology regulator’s national and international success.

    First, it’s a single-mission body. It regulates dealings with genetically modified organisms:

    to protect the health and safety of people, and to protect the environment, by identifying risks posed by or as a result of gene technology.

    Second, it has a sophisticated decision-making structure. Thanks to it, the risk assessment of every application of gene technology in Australia is informed by sound expertise. It also insulates that assessment from political influence and corporate lobbying.

    The regulator is informed by two integrated expert bodies: a Technical Advisory Committee and an Ethics and Community Consultative Committee. These bodies are complemented by Institutional Biosafety Committees supporting ongoing risk management at more than 200 research and commercial institutions accredited to use gene technology in Australia. This parallels best practice in food safety and drug safety.

    The Gene Technology Regulator has a sophisticated decision-making structure.
    Office of The Gene Technology Regulator, CC BY

    Third, the regulator continuously integrates public input into its risk assessment process. It does so meaningfully and transparently. Every dealing with gene technology must be approved. Before a release into the wild, an exhaustive consultation process maximises review and oversight. This ensures a high threshold of public safety.

    Regulating high-risk technologies

    Together, these factors explain why Australia’s gene technology regulator has been so successful. They also highlight what’s missing in most emerging approaches to AI regulation.

    The mandate of AI regulation typically involves an impossible compromise between protecting the public and supporting industry. As with gene regulation, it seeks to safeguard against risks. In the case of AI, those risks would be to health, the environment and human rights. But it also seeks to “maximise the opportunities that AI presents for our economy and society”.

    Second, currently proposed AI regulation outsources risk assessment and management to commercial AI providers. Instead, it should develop a national evidence base, informed by cross-disciplinary scientific, socio-technical and civil society expertise.

    The argument goes that AI is “out of the bag”, with potential applications too numerous and too mundane to regulate. Yet molecular biology methods are also well out of the bag. The gene tech regulator still maintains oversight of all uses of the technology, while continually working to categorise certain dealings as “exempt” or “low-risk” to facilitate research and development.

    Third, the public has no meaningful opportunity to assent to dealings with AI. This is true regardless of whether it involves plundering the archives of our collective imaginations to build AI systems, or deploying them in ways that undercut dignity, autonomy and justice.

    The lesson of more than two decades of gene regulation is that it doesn’t stop innovation to regulate a promising new technology until it can demonstrate a history of non-damaging use to people and the environment. In fact, it saves it.

    The UWA Tech & Policy Lab receives funding from nationally competitive research grants and philanthropic partners. The present research was supported by GA308883: Effective Ethical Frameworks for the State as an Enabler of Innovation, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Julia Powles is the Director of the Lab and has served as an independent member of the National AI Centre’s Think Tank on Responsible AI, the Australian Government’s National Robotics Strategy Advisory Committee, and the Advisory Panel supporting the Australian Parliamentary Inquiry into the Use of Generative AI in the Australian Education System. Through each of these bodies, she has provided advice on comparative AI regulation.

    Haris Yusoff 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. Australia has led the way regulating gene technology for over 20 years. Here’s how it should apply that to AI – https://theconversation.com/australia-has-led-the-way-regulating-gene-technology-for-over-20-years-heres-how-it-should-apply-that-to-ai-240571

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Chief Executive to deliver Policy Address to LegCo

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Chief Executive to deliver Policy Address to LegCo
    Chief Executive to deliver Policy Address to LegCo
    **************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:     The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting on Wednesday (October 16) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. During the meeting, the Chief Executive will deliver the Policy Address.     The agenda of the above meeting can be obtained via the LegCo Website (www.legco.gov.hk). Members of the public can watch or listen to the meeting via the “Webcast” system on the LegCo Website. To observe the proceedings of the meeting at the LegCo Complex, members of the public may call 3919 3399 during office hours to reserve seats.

     
    Ends/Monday, October 14, 2024Issued at HKT 14:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Advancing Uzbekistan’s Sustainable Development via PPP Road Projects

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    PPP progress

    The PPP Development Department (PPPDD), established in 2018 under the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MOEF), monitors PPP progress in Uzbekistan. As of 5 August 2024, the government had signed 973 PPPs, totaling about $2.152 billion. These include 463 water management projects, 220 heating system projects, 91 education projects, 52 healthcare projects, and only 2 in transportation. Most PPP projects are small, averaging about $2.2 million each. The benefits of PPPs are more tangible for large projects, such as roads. Currently, no road PPPs have been signed, but two are in the pipeline: the Tashkent-Andijan Road (TAR), estimated at $5.35 billion, and the Tashkent-Samarkand Road (TSR), estimated at $1.4 billion.

    Road construction and rehabilitation typically require higher investment than other infrastructure sectors. The World Bank estimates Uzbekistan’s Road Development Plan faces a $1.5 billion annual funding gap. Mobilizing private sector and external financiers is crucial to bridge this gap.

    PPP projects generally progress through six phases: project identification, appraisal, structuring, tendering, delivery, and operation. Both the TAR and TSR are at the structuring stage. For TAR, the World Bank funded a pre-investment study in 2015 at a cost of $2.85 million, building on a pre-feasibility study completed in 2020. An investment teaser was prepared in December 2023, and the government invited expressions of interest by March 2024, with prequalification expected later in the year. The TSR feasibility study, funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), began in 2019 but remains incomplete.

    Besides TAR and TSR, other potential PPP road projects include the Kungrad-Daut-Ata A380 Highway (KDH) operations and maintenance, a nationwide electronic tolling system, real-time traffic monitoring, weigh-in-motion systems, the Takhtakaracha tunnel construction, and the development of a new road crash and vehicle operations and maintenance database.

    In December 2023, EBRD approved a €10 million loan to establish the Uzbekistan PPP Project Development Facility (UPDF), which will finance the preparation of priority PPP projects, including in the road sector.

    Uzbekistan’s PPP framework

    Uzbekistan’s PPP framework is built on the 2019 PPP Law (amended in 2021), Resolution 259 (2020), and a draft toll road law developed with World Bank support. The draft law aims to provide a foundation for tolling roads, complementing the existing PPP Law, and was expected to be submitted to Parliament by June 2024.

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recommended improving fiscal risk assessments, including for state-owned enterprises and PPPs, to better manage external borrowing and integrate investment planning into the medium-term budget. Uzbekistan’s public debt rose from 28% of GDP in 2019 to 36.8% in July 2023, reaching $31.5 billion. The Debt Law caps public debt at 60% of GDP, with policies tightening if debt reaches 50%. Attracting private sector financing for high-cost road projects is essential to avoid increasing the public debt burden.

    Tolling system for roads

    The government plans to introduce toll roads to ease budget constraints and improve road services. A draft toll law, prepared with World Bank assistance, aims to establish tolling mechanisms. Preliminary estimates suggest toll fees for the TAR route could be $5-7 for cars and $15 for trucks and buses. Tolling alone may not cover construction and operations and maintenance costs, requiring availability payments or co-funding from development partners.

    The ADB has supported road infrastructure in Uzbekistan with $1.3 billion from 2007 to 2022. The Ministry of Transport requested ADB’s assistance in introducing a tolling system, with the KDH project selected to pilot this system. The KDH could become the first ADB-supported PPP road project in Uzbekistan, with potential involvement in other PPP efforts, such as transforming State Unitary Entities (SUE) for road operations and maintenance and improving urban bus services in Karakalpakstan.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Exercise empowers lung cancer patients to take active role in treatment

    Source: University of South Australia

    14 October 2024

    Coughing, chest pain and a shortness of breath – they’re all distressing symptoms of lung cancer. So, while exercise may seem a counterintuitive activity for lung cancer patients, new research shows otherwise.

    In a cornerstone review from a team of global experts*­ – including Southern Cross University and the University of South Australia – researchers show that exercise may not only improve quality of life and treatment effectiveness, but also boost survival rates for lung cancer patients.

    Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In Australia, it is estimated that 15,122 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year alone.

    Examining the effects of exercise on various lung-cancer associated health outcomes, researchers have now developed recommendations for patients and health practitioners, to support exercise before, during and after lung cancer treatments.

    Combined aerobic and resistance training, performed 2-5 times per week, is typically prescribed across the cancer continuum. Researchers say that exercise can support lung cancer patients by:

    • Improving quality of life: Exercise programs demonstrate improvements in fitness, strength, and quality of life for people with lung cancer before, during, and after treatment.
    • Reducing symptoms: Exercise can help manage cancer-related symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, and muscle weakness.
    • Reducing post-op complications: Preoperative exercise programs may lead to reduced postoperative complications and shorter hospital stays.
    • Boosting wellbeing: Exercise during treatment can help patients maintain muscle mass, reduce fatigue, and improve psychological well-being.
    • Increasing appetite: Exercise may play a role in managing cancer cachexia (a common complication of cancer that causes you to lose significant amounts of skeletal muscle and body fat) and can be safe for patients with bone metastases when properly prescribed.
    • Easing advanced symptoms: Exercise can be beneficial even for patients with advanced-stage lung cancer, helping to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

    Lead author Southern Cross University’s Associate Professor Kellie Toohey says to optimise exercise interventions for lung cancer patients, an integrated approach across interdisciplinary care teams was needed.

    “Lung cancer care involves a broad range of healthcare professionals – oncologists, clinical exercise physiologists, dieticians, psychologists, and physical therapists – all of whom must work together to support a patient with exercise,” Associate Professor Toohey says.

    “To facilitate this integration, we need to educate healthcare providers and patients about exercise in lung cancer care.

    “By highlighting the mental and physical benefits of exercise, we hope that patients can be empowered to take a more active role in their treatment and recovery, potentially transforming their lung cancer journey from passive endurance to active participation in health improvement.”

    UniSA researcher Dr Ben Singh says the research challenges beliefs about the inability of people with lung cancer to exercise.

    “There’s an often-held misconception that lung cancer patients are too ill or frail to exercise, particularly because their illness affects their lungs and breathing. But contrary to this belief, research shows that exercise can have many benefits for people with lung cancer,” Dr Singh says.

    “Exercise has the potential to counteract many health issues, not only improving their quality of life, but also potentially influencing treatment outcomes.

    “This is particularly striking given the historically poor prognosis associated with lung cancer.

    “Regular, tailored exercise can help improve a patient’s physical condition, helping them better tolerate the physical demand of diagnosis, surgery, treatment, and recovery. It can also vastly improve a patient’s mental health, helping counteract feelings of depression and anxiety, so often associated with a lung cancer diagnosis.”

    Notes for editors:

    *This research has been conducted by a team of researchers from Southern Cross University, University of Canberra, University of Sydney, University of Technology Sydney, Edith Cowan University, Flinders University, Queensland University of Technology, University of Notre Dame Australia, University of South Australia, Universidade de Caxias do Sul (Brazil), Institute for Respiratory Health, University of Western Australia, University of Queensland, University of Pittsburgh (USA), Campbelltown Hospital, University of Melbourne, The Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Griffith University, and Cancer Council Queensland.

    Media contacts

    Southern Cross University: Sharlene King, media office, M +61 429 661 349 E scumedia@scu.edu.au
    UniSA: Annabel Mansfield, media & communications, M +61 479 182 489 E Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au
    UniSA contact for interview:  Dr Ben Singh E: Ben.Singh@unisa.edu.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Large Grassfire – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) responded to a large grassfire in Alice Springs over the weekend.

    Around 11pm on Friday 11 October 2024, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a grass fire near Kurrajong Drive , East Side, with the fire moving in a westerly direction towards nearby residences.

    NTFRS Firefighters and volunteers deployed and began working to protect lives and property, particularly in the areas behind Burke Street, while Bushfires NT assisted with aerial surveys.

    Four grass fire units and two tankers worked throughout the night battling the blaze with the fire burning an estimated 180 hectares. Firefighting efforts concluded around 5:20pm on Saturday 12 October.

    The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

    Thankfully no lives or property was lost.

    NTFRS Acting District Officer Anthony Blakeley said “I would like to commend the huge effort from NTFRS and Volunteer firefighters, who worked long hours in challenging conditions, protecting the Alice Springs Community.

    “Alice Springs residences are no strangers to wildfires and mitigation strategies are crucial to ensuring your families safety. Update your Bushfire Survival Plan, Ensure you have 4 metre firebreaks around your property and clear and remove all loose debris.”

    To find out more information, visit https://www.pfes.nt.gov.au/fire-and-rescue-service/publications  and stay up to date with the Australian Warning System by checking the Fire Incident Map (https://www.pfes.nt.gov.au/incidentmap)  or by subscribing to alerts and warnings on the NTPFES website via https://pfes.nt.gov.au/newsroom/subscribe-ntpfes-media-releases-alerts.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: The government of New Caledonia launches a geographic information portal dedicated to natural hazards

    MIL OSI Translation. French Polynesian to English –

    Source: Government of New Caledonia

    In order to better inform the population about the natural risks to which New Caledonia is exposed, the government of New Caledonia is providing a new geographic information portal. In collaboration with the Digital and Modernization Department (DINUM), the Department of Industry, Mines and Energy of New Caledonia (DIMENC) has developed and put online the “Géorisque” portal: https://georisque.georep.nc/

    This portal provides simplified access to geographic data relating to natural hazards in the territory. To date, the information available concerns land movements, marine submersion, coastal erosion, and the presence of environmental asbestos. This data is regularly updated and enriched by the relevant services.

    As an extension of the Coastal Observatory (OBLIC), the Géorisque portal offers explanatory notices to facilitate the understanding and use of data. Users can explore interactive mapping, consult summary dashboards by municipality, and download or print maps according to their specific needs. Direct access to data layers is also available via the Géorep portal: https://dimenc.georep.nc.

    In a participatory approach, Géorisque also allows the population to contribute to enriching information by reporting new observations or events linked to natural risks.

    This project is part of the New Caledonian government’s desire to improve public awareness of environmental risks. In particular, it responds to a recommendation made in March 2024 by the Territorial Chamber of Auditors in its report on civil security policy in the area of major climate risks in New Caledonia.

    The data collected and disseminated on this portal aims to support local public policies, whether in the areas of housing, transport or risk prevention, and thus to strengthen coordination between the competent authorities.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 219-2024: Scheduled Outage: Friday 18 October to Saturday 19 October 2024 – BICON, DAFF messaging, EVE, SeaPest

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    14 October 2024

    Who does this notice affect?

    All clients required to use the following systems during this planned outage:

    • Biosecurity Import Conditions System (BICON)
    • External Verification for eCertificates (EVE)
    • Seasonal Pests (SeaPest)

    All clients submitting the below declarations during this planned outage:

    • Full Import Declaration (FID)
    • Long Form Self Assessed Clearance (LFSAC)
    • Short Form Self Assessed…

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” available to public on Wednesday

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, will release “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” on Wednesday (October 16).
     
         The full text of the Policy Address will be released at http://www.policyaddress.gov.hk after the Chief Executive has completed his speech.
     
         Copies of the Policy Address and other related publications will be available for public collection from the time the Chief Executive has completed his speech at the 20 Home Affairs Enquiry Centres (HAECs) of the Home Affairs Department (HAD). Please browse the HAD website (www.had.gov.hk/en/public_services/public_enquiry_services/ctec.htm) for the opening hours of the HAECs.
     
         Leaflets containing the highlights of the Policy Address will also be available at the following places:
     
    * 16 government office buildings:
     
    Queensway Government Offices, Admiralty
    Immigration Tower, Wan Chai
    Revenue Tower, Wan Chai
    Wanchai Tower, Wan Chai
    North Point Government Offices
    Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices
    Ho Man Tin Government Offices
    Lai Chi Kok Government Offices
    Mongkok Government Offices
    Trade and Industry Tower, Kowloon City
    To Kwa Wan Government Offices
    West Kowloon Government Offices, Yau Ma Tei
    Sha Tin Government Offices
    Tai Hing Government Offices, Tuen Mun
    Tai Po Government Offices
    Tsuen Wan Government Offices
     
    * Seven public libraries:
     
    Hong Kong Central Library, Causeway Bay
    City Hall Public Library, Central
    Kowloon Public Library, Kowloon City
    Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library, Yuen Long
    Sha Tin Public Library
    Tsuen Wan Public Library
    Tuen Mun Public Library
     
    *Five museums:

    Hong Kong Museum of Art
    Hong Kong Heritage Museum
    Hong Kong Museum of History
    Hong Kong Science Museum
    Hong Kong Space Museum

    * 61 shopping centres in public housing estates:
     
    Hong Kong
    ———–
    Siu Sai Wan Plaza, Chai Wan
    Wan Tsui Shopping Centre, Chai Wan
    Oi Tung Shopping Centre, Shau Kei Wan
    Hing Tung Shopping Centre, Shau Kei Wan
    Stanley Plaza, Stanley
    Wah Fu (II) Commercial Complex, Aberdeen
    Shek Pai Wan Shopping Centre, Aberdeen
     
    Kowloon
    ———
    Lei Yue Mun Plaza, Yau Tong
    Yau Lai Shopping Centre, Yau Tong
    Kai Tin Shopping Centre, Lam Tin
    Tsui Ping North Shopping Circuit, Kwun Tong
    Shun Lee Commercial Centre, Kwun Tong
    On Kay Commercial Centre, Ngau Tau Kok
    Lok Wah Commercial Centre, Ngau Tau Kok
    Sau Mau Ping Shopping Centre, Sau Mau Ping
    Tsz Wan Shan Shopping Centre, Tsz Wan Shan
    Choi Wan Commercial Complex, Ngau Chi Wan
    Chuk Yuen Plaza, Wong Tai Sin
    Temple Mall South, Wong Tai Sin
    Fung Tak Shopping Centre, Diamond Hill
    Lok Fu Place, Wang Tau Hom
    Shek Kip Mei Shopping Centre, Sham Shui Po
    Hoi Fu Shopping Centre, Mong Kok
    Oi Man Plaza, Ho Man Tin
    Homantin Plaza, Ho Man Tin
     
    New Territories East
    ———————
    Choi Yuen Plaza, Sheung Shui
    Ching Ho Shopping Centre, Sheung Shui
    Fu Shin Shopping Centre, Tai Po
    Tai Wo Plaza, Tai Po
    Heng On Commercial Centre, Ma On Shan
    Yan On Shopping Centre, Ma On Shan
    Mei Tin Shopping Centre, Sha Tin
    Hin Keng Shopping Centre, Sha Tin
    Kwong Yuen Shopping Centre, Sha Tin
    Sha Kok Commercial Centre, Sha Tin
    Mei Lam Commercial Centre, Sha Tin
    Wo Che Plaza, Sha Tin
    Pok Hong Shopping Centre, Sha Tin
    Yue Tin Court Commercial Centre, Sha Tin
    Shui Chuen O Plaza, Sha Tin
    Shek Mun Shopping Centre, Sha Tin
    Queens Hill Shopping Centre, Fanling
    TKO Gateway, Tseung Kwan O
    Po Lam Shopping Centre, Tseung Kwan O
    TKO Spot, Tseung Kwan O
     
    New Territories West and Islands
    ———————————-
    T Town, Tin Shui Wai
    Tin Shui Shopping Centre, Tin Shui Wai
    Tin Yan Shopping Centre, Tin Shui Wai
    Tin Ching Shopping Centre, Tin Shui Wai
    Long Ping Commercial Centre, Yuen Long
    Long Shin Shopping Centre, Yuen Long
    Butterfly Plaza, Tuen Mun
    Leung King Plaza, Tuen Mun
    Tai Hing Commercial Centre, Tuen Mun
    Siu Hong Commercial Centre, Tuen Mun
    Yan Tin Shopping Centre, Tuen Mun
    Hung Fuk Shopping Centre, Hung Shui Kiu
    Cheung Fat Plaza, Tsing Yi
    Lei Muk Shue Shopping Centre, Tsuen Wan
    Kwai Chung Shopping Centre, Kwai Chung
    Fu Tung Plaza, Tung Chung
     
         The public can watch the live broadcast of the delivery of the speech by the Chief Executive in the Legislative Council and the press conference with a simple click into the Policy Address webpage (www.policyaddress.gov.hk).
     
         They can also access “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” webpage through the e-Stations located at the 20 HAECs in the 18 Districts.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Canyon County of State of Idaho in US suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 14) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Canyon County of the State of Idaho in the United States (US), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

         A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 40 950 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat and about 13.86 million poultry eggs from the US in the first six months of this year.

         “The CFS has contacted the American authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kevin, Founder of UXUY: From Uniswap entering the public chain arena to seeing new opportunities in Telegram’s custom public chain

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, Oct. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On the evening of October 10, Uniswap, the world’s largest decentralized cryptocurrency exchange, officially announced the launch of UniChain, a Layer 2 network built on Ethereum. Though it’s currently only live on the testnet, it has already captured significant market attention. $UNI’s price surged dramatically, increasing by 15% within 24 hours.

    While media quickly reignited the old debate of whether “UNI can be further empowered,” my focus is on the release of UniChain itself. This launch could shake up the existing public chain landscape and redefine the competitive dynamics between DApps and public chains. It’s becoming clear that public chains will evolve beyond mere transfers and transactions, paving the way for diverse application scenarios. In other words, a new cycle of multi-chain growth in the crypto ecosystem is upon us.

    The crypto ecosystem is entering a multi-chain era

    Major exchanges and projects are rolling out their own public chains to serve their specific use cases. For example, Coinbase launched Base, Binance introduced BNB Chain, OpBNB, and Greenfield, and OKX recently rolled out X Layer. In the decentralized social space, the blockchain-based platform Farcaster was built on Base, and its flagship channel, Degen, not only issued the $DEGEN token but also launched a Layer 3 solution on Base.

    Public chains are becoming more specialized and diversified, with tighter integration between chains and specific applications. The question now is: Are we entering the season of Chain Summer?

    I’m confident that we’ll soon witness the rise of countless new public chains and novel application scenarios.

    Uniswap founder Hayden Adams stated:

    Just as Uniswap is the liquidity hub of the Ethereum network, UniChain has the potential to become the DeFi hub across many chains.

    Degen stands as a great example of the fusion between social platforms and public chains. By rewarding users for high-quality content, Degen enhances platform usability, attracts new users, and generates a growth flywheel. Degen’s founder, Jacek Trociński, explained: “The creation of the Degen chain is intended to provide developers with a vibrant playground and offer users a safe space to experiment with funds. Think of it as the blockchain version of Las Vegas—not so much about gambling, but more about the excitement of exploration and entertainment.”

    Crypto developers are using the Degen chain to introduce innovative community governance models and participation mechanisms, including consumption, gaming payments, and more.

    Telegram’s growing crypto ecosystem

    With 900 million users, Telegram is rapidly becoming a new hub for the crypto world. A multitude of crypto DApps are being developed on the platform, and its vast user base has attracted the attention of major exchanges and projects.

    Diverse application scenarios, such as blockchain gaming (GameFi), Real World Assets (RWA), and decentralized finance (DeFi)—are thriving, driving a growing demand for custom public chains.

    UXUY, a decentralized multi-chain wallet built for Telegram, has officially launched its custom mainnet feature. Users can now easily create and manage over 100 EVM-compatible mainnets and testnets through the UXUY Telegram wallet, including emerging networks like DuckChain, a Layer 2 network on Ton. This allows users to seamlessly participate in airdrops and interact with DApps on new public chains, all without the need for complex operations.

    In addition, UXUY Connect will support custom mainnets, offering developers greater flexibility in building diverse DApps. This custom network and testnet support enhances the development experience, allowing comprehensive testing and smooth deployment across different environments, meeting the needs of increasingly complex crypto applications.

    UXUY is committed to actively supporting emerging public chains and new infrastructure, embracing the new era of multi-chain growth.

    About UXUY

    UXUY is a next-gen decentralized multi-chain infrastructure incubated and invested in by Binance Labs. It has already launched both APP and Bot products across iOS, Android, and the Telegram ecosystem.

    UXUY Wallet (@UXUYbot) is the first self-custody multi-chain wallet on Telegram, supporting a wide range of blockchains, including Bitcoin Lightning Network, BNB Chain, Base, TON, Arbitrum, TRON, and more. UXUY has created the first decentralized multi-chain wallet and DApp application center based on Telegram, with over 1.5 million users already onboarded. The goal of UXUY Wallet is to bring 900 million users into the multi-chain crypto ecosystem.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Development Bureau imposes regulating actions on contractor involved in fatal industrial incident at construction site in Ho Ma Tin

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Development Bureau imposes regulating actions on contractor involved in fatal industrial incident at construction site in Ho Ma Tin
    Development Bureau imposes regulating actions on contractor involved in fatal industrial incident at construction site in Ho Ma Tin
    ******************************************************************************************

         A spokesman for the Development Bureau (DEVB) said today (October 14) that the Government attaches great importance to construction site safety. In response to the fatal industrial incident at the construction site in Ho Man Tin yesterday (October 13), the DEVB, being the party to procure services for public works, has suspended the contractor concerned from tendering for public works contracts pursuant to the regulating regime.      The spokesman said that the contractor concerned was under the List of Approved Contractors for Public Works. The DEVB issued a notification to the contractor concerned today to suspend it from tendering for public works contracts in buildings category with immediate effect. The contractor concerned has to conduct an independent safety audit to review its safety management system. Taking cognisance of the outcome of the independent safety audit, the contractor is required to submit an improvement action plan and implement improvement measures, with a view to demonstrating that it has an effective safety management system before uplifting of the suspension from tendering can be considered. The suspension from tendering is not only confined to future tender exercises but is also applicable to tender exercises with procedures initiated but not concluded.     The Labour Department is investigating this industrial incident and will handle it in accordance with the law. Subject to the investigation findings, the DEVB will impose further regulating actions on the contractor concerned later on, including extension of the period of suspension from tendering for public works contracts and even removal from the List.

     
    Ends/Monday, October 14, 2024Issued at HKT 15:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: This beautiful peacock spider was only found two years ago. Now it could be dancing its last dance

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lizzy Lowe, Vice Chancellor’s Research Fellow in Ecology and Entomology, Edith Cowan University

    If you notice a tiny, strikingly coloured spider performing an elaborate courtship dance, you may have seen your first peacock spider.

    New species of peacock spider are discovered every year; the tally is now 113. One newly discovered species, Maratus yanchep, is only known to exist in a small area of coastal dunes near Yanchep, north of Perth.

    As Perth’s suburbs sprawl ever further north and south, it means one problem – the housing crisis – is worsening another, the extinction crisis.

    The dunes which are home to Maratus yanchep are just 20 metres from land being cleared for large new estates.

    If the species was formally listed as threatened, it could be protected. But the spider was only described in 2022 and has not been listed on state or federal threatened species lists. That means Maratus yanchep has no protection, according to the state government.

    What’s so special about a spider?

    Peacock spiders are tiny. Many have bodies just 4–5 mm across. The males only put on their mating displays during short periods of the year, typically August to September. Their size and habits also make it hard to learn about their populations and preferred habitats. This is partly why we’re only now realising how many peacock spider species there are.

    Concerted effort by enthusiasts such as Jurgen Otto has greatly expanded our knowledge. Of the 113 described species, each has distinctive colouring and its own dances (males have the colour and the moves). But we know there are more species of peacock spider waiting to be recognised by western science.

    Many species of peacock spider are only known from within a very small area of suitable habitat.

    This puts the species at high risk of extinction because a single threat such as a large bushfire or a suburban development can destroy all their habitat at once.

    Peacock spiders such as this Maratus tasmanicus are tiny but pack a lot of personality.
    Kristian Bell/Shutterstock

    How can this be allowed?

    Before any native bushland is cleared in Australia, developers have to undertake an environmental impact survey to look for threatened species and assess what damage the development would do. If a threatened species is found, the development can be scaled back or denied.

    The problem is, these surveys only look for species known to be in danger. If a species isn’t listed on Australia’s growing list of threatened species, it won’t be looked for.

    But Maratus yanchep has not been assessed to see if it is threatened. This means it has no protection from development.

    This points to a wider problem. Large, well-known Australian vertebrates such as koalas and platypuses tend to get more attention – and conservation efforts – than humble invertebrates. We face an uphill battle to conserve our wealth of invertebrates.

    Worldwide, many invertebrates are in real danger of disappearing. Australia is home to at least 300,000 invertebrate species, dwarfing the 8,000-odd vertebrates – but only 101 are currently listed under the federal government’s laws protecting threatened species, the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act. The problem here is we don’t have enough data to assess most invertebrate species for formal conservation listing and protection.

    Data takes money

    Listing a species as threatened requires a large amount of data on where the species is and isn’t found. This takes time and specialist knowledge. But funding is scarce.

    As a result, our efforts to gather data on invertebrates often relies on passionate volunteers and enthusiasts, who may often pick one genus – say peacock spiders – and set out to expand our knowledge.

    When clear and immediate threats do appear – such as clearing coastal dunes in Yanchep – we are again reliant on the unpaid work of volunteers to gather information.

    The problem of sprawl

    Perth is one of the longest cities in the world. Its suburbs sprawl for 150 kilometres, running from Two Rocks in the north to Dawesville in the south.

    Many Perth residents want to live by the coast, driving demand for new housing on the city outskirts. This drives destruction of native bushland and pushes species towards extinction. Some species tolerate the change from bushland to suburbia, but these are a minority – less than 25%. Small, localised species are at highest risk of extinction.

    Perth’s sprawl shows no sign of slowing. Land clearing for housing has contributed to the worsening plight of the Carnaby’s cockatoo. Fifty years ago, the iconic cockatoo flew over the city in flocks as large as 7,000. There’s nothing like that now.

    Perth’s urban sprawl now stretches beyond Yanchep. Pictured: Yanchep’s beach. The bush area in the background is where maratus yanchep lives.
    Kok Kin Meng/Shutterstock

    What can we do?

    Efforts are underway to protect Maratus yanchep. The not-for-profit charity Invertebrates Australia is working to nominate it for the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species. Greens MP Brad Pettitt raised the issue in Parliament in August.

    The one thing peacock spiders have going for them is their looks. They are spectacularly beautiful. They’re also easily identified by the distinct patterns on the males – for most species you don’t need expert training to tell them apart, just decent eyesight.

    As a result, peacock spiders have drawn attention from dozens of amateur arachnologists and photographers who collect and share information on where they can be found. This citizen science data is often able to be used as evidence in listing a species as threatened – and unlocking vital protection.

    Images of these spiders also boosts their public profile and support for their protection.

    Despite the recent groundswell of interest in saving this tiny spider, it may be too late. To avoid the mass extinction of iconic Australian species, we must find better ways of building without large-scale habitat clearing.



    Read more:
    Photos from the field: zooming in on Australia’s hidden world of exquisite mites, snails and beetles

    Lizzy Lowe is affiliated with Invertebrates Australia

    Jess Marsh is affiliated with Invertebrates Australia.

    Dr Leanda Denise Mason is affiliated with Centre for People, Place, and Planet.

    – ref. This beautiful peacock spider was only found two years ago. Now it could be dancing its last dance – https://theconversation.com/this-beautiful-peacock-spider-was-only-found-two-years-ago-now-it-could-be-dancing-its-last-dance-238437

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the 4-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction held on October 14, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 4-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 75,000
    Total amount of offers received (in ₹ crore) 24,070
    Amount accepted (in ₹ crore) 24,070
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.49
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.49
    Partial Acceptance Percentage of offers received at cut off rate NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1283

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government appoints Chairman of Securities and Futures Commission

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government appoints Chairman of Securities and Futures Commission
    Government appoints Chairman of Securities and Futures Commission
    *****************************************************************

         The Government announced today (October 14) that the Chief Executive has, pursuant to the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571), appointed Dr Kelvin Wong Tin-yau as the Chairman of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) for a term of three years from October 20, 2024, to October 19, 2027.      Dr Wong was a Non-Executive Director (NED) of the SFC from 2012 to 2018 and a member of the Listing Committee of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited from 2007 to 2013. He is currently the Chairman of the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council (AFRC).      The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, “Dr Wong has been dedicated to serving the financial services industry of Hong Kong, with extensive experience in the operation of the securities and futures markets, capital market development, corporate governance and financial regulatory matters. Under his stewardship, the AFRC smoothly implemented the accounting and audit regulatory reforms, bringing Hong Kong’s regulatory regime in line with international developments. I expect that under Dr Wong’s leadership, the SFC will continue to uphold its dual role as a regulator and facilitator of market development to ensure the fair, transparent and orderly operation of the local securities and futures markets, and to strive for reforms and innovations, with a view to solidifying and enhancing Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.”      Dr Wong will continue to serve as the Chairman of the AFRC up to December 31, 2024.      With the incumbent SFC Chairman, Mr Tim Lui Tim-leung, completing his tenure, Mr Chan said, “Under Mr Lui’s leadership, the SFC actively supports the Government’s policies, seamlessly collaborates with other financial regulators in Hong Kong, and closely monitors the financial market to ensure an orderly and smooth operation. The SFC continues to promote innovations such as implementing a number of market reform measures in co-ordination with the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, and with the staunch support of the central ministries, proactively furthers the development of the Connect Schemes with the Mainland. The SFC also persistently fosters the development of regulatory regimes, with examples including the implementation of the licensing regime for virtual asset trading platforms to facilitate the sustained responsible development of the sector. Moreover, the SFC actively participates in international regulatory co-operation and standard formulation. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mr Lui for his well-recognised achievements over his six-year leadership of the SFC.”

     
    Ends/Monday, October 14, 2024Issued at HKT 16:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Consultation conclusions on proposed renaming of Virtual Bank

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Consultation conclusions on proposed renaming of Virtual Bank
    Consultation conclusions on proposed renaming of Virtual Bank
    *************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:     ​The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) published today (October 14) the conclusions on the public consultation on the proposal to rename “Virtual Bank” (Conclusions Paper). The Conclusions Paper sets out the key comments received in the consultation, the HKMA’s responses to these comments, and the HKMA’s conclusions on the proposed renaming.     The HKMA received a total of 26 submissions from various parties including industry/professional associations, virtual banks and members of the public in the consultation. The respondents were broadly supportive of the proposal, and the majority of them agreed with the proposed new name “Digital Bank”. The HKMA will embark on the amendments to the Guideline on Authorization of Virtual Banks to effect the new name “Digital Bank” shortly.     The Conclusions Paper is available on the HKMA website.

     
    Ends/Monday, October 14, 2024Issued at HKT 16:05

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: World sci-tech forum builds consensus on sustainable development

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The 2024 World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF) will convene in Beijing from Oct. 22 to 24. As a major event in the global science community, the forum will gather scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, and other leading figures from around the world to share insights and technological solutions for sustainable development.
    The China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) initiated the forum in 2019 and has held five successful sessions to date. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the inaugural WSTDF, highlighting the forum’s role in building consensus and deepening cooperation.
    Since its inception, the forum has explored new approaches and fostered innovation, establishing itself as a world-class hub for pioneering ideas. It has created an international platform for scientific exchange and collaboration, a venue for bringing together leading talents, and a driving force for global sustainable development. These efforts have significantly contributed to advancing the Global Development Initiative and promoting the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind.
    Sci-tech innovation: The way to sustainable development
    In his congratulatory letter to the first forum, President Xi stressed the role of scientific and technological innovation in addressing global challenges. He noted that the ongoing revolution in science and technology and industrial transformation significantly impacts human civilization and global governance.
    “Promoting sustainable development with sci-tech innovation has become the way that we must take to solve some important global issues of common concern,” Xi said.
    The past five sessions of the forum have always focused on advancing sustainable development through technological innovation, covering crucial topics from basic science to climate change, the digital economy and green innovation. The forum has invited global scientific leaders to present their latest research and propose solutions to pressing challenges.
    Each year, the forum releases a list of the top 10 scientific issues concerning the development of human society, evaluating major global challenges and promoting the achievement of the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. The second forum introduced the World Journal Clout Index of Scientific and Technological Periodicals and included the results on the “Innovation China” platform. The third, fourth and fifth forums released the annual IUPAC Top 10 Emerging Technologies in Chemistry.
    The research findings released by the forum represent the collective wisdom of the scientific community, showcasing advancements in science and technology while offering practical solutions for global challenges and sustainable development goals.
    Building consensus: A platform for global exchange
    Beyond technological discussions, the forum serves as a vital space for building international consensus and fostering cooperation. President Xi has highlighted China’s commitment to openness and collaboration, expressing hope that the forum will help scientists, educators and entrepreneurs from different countries build consensus, exchange ideas, and deepen cooperation to contribute wisdom and strength to building a community with a shared future for mankind.
    The WSTDF serves as more than just a platform for scientific discussion; it is a vital opportunity for building global consensus and fostering international cooperation. Since its inception in 2019, the forum has consistently brought together Nobel laureates, leading scientists, educators, economists and entrepreneurs. Each year, it attracts about 200 distinguished participants from over 20 countries and regions, including academicians, experts, heads of major scientific organizations, prominent entrepreneurs and university presidents.
    The forum facilitates communication through high-level dialogues, keynote speeches and roundtable discussions, creating valuable connections among scientists, entrepreneurs and policymakers. These exchanges encourage in-depth reflection and foster consensus on critical scientific issues. Over the past five years, the forum has drawn thousands of scientific leaders globally, publishing reports and generating influential scientific policy initiatives.
    A notable example is the “Openness, Trust, and Cooperation” initiative introduced at the third forum by 260 scientific organizations, emphasizing the international scientific community’s commitment to unity and collaboration. The initiative outlined concrete measures such as maintaining the legitimate boundaries of scientific openness, fostering mutual trust and respect among collaborators, and finding common ground for cooperation.
    At the fourth forum, the organizers partnered with globally recognized scientific organizations to launch the initiative of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development and Discipline Development Report. It called for a renewed global focus on fundamental scientific research, deepening practical cooperation, promoting science popularization, and advancing sustainable development.
    In this era of profound transformation, forming a broad consensus is crucial for leading global scientific development. The WSTDF provides a foundation for uniting global wisdom and building a better future.
    Building bridges for global collaboration
    The WSTDF aims to foster deeper cooperation among governments, industry, and academia, which aligns with President Xi’s vision. It promotes an open, collaborative ecosystem to address global challenges.
    Each forum focuses on international cooperation, promoting the sharing of global scientific resources through initiatives like establishing international scientific issues and talent databases for global cooperation.
    The inaugural forum introduced an innovative model for organizing the event through a collaborative approach involving CAST, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Engineering and internationally renowned scientific organizations. This partnership established a flagship platform facilitating cooperation between China’s scientific community and the global science community.
    The second forum emphasized collaboration, introducing the Innovation and Cooperation Forum of Open Science and Open Source as a parallel session. The third forum promoted discussions on global cooperation in scientific and technological innovation.
    The fourth forum continued with the theme of “Openness, Trust, and Cooperation,” establishing a sub-forum for collaboration between academicians and multinational companies. This initiative aimed to deepen international cooperation in fundamental research, industry partnerships and technological innovation. The fifth forum, based in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, focused on international regional cooperation, resulting in a series of high-quality recommendation reports.
    After five years of progress, the WSTDF has become a key platform for global innovation and scientific collaboration. The 2024 forum, themed “Science and Technology for the Future,” will focus on six key ideas: intelligence, interdisciplinary, infrastructures, innovation, interaction, and integration. It will continue gathering global wisdom to empower high-quality development and promote international scientific cooperation and innovation.
    Guided by the principles of President Xi’s congratulatory letter, the WSTDF remains committed to building a community with a shared future for mankind. By deepening international cooperation, building global consensus and advancing the three global initiatives — the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative — the forum aims to continue providing strong momentum for global scientific innovation, illuminating the path toward a better, more sustainable future.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Funding Scheme on Promotion of Family Education 2024-25 opens for application from today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau and the Family Council have launched a new five-year Funding Scheme on the Promotion of Family Education today (October 14) and invite a 2024-25 round of applications. The deadline for applications is November 22.
          
         The Scheme seeks to subsidise non-profit-making community family education projects to raise public awareness of family education and its importance, and further promote family values to enhance family well-being and social harmony.
                                         
         The Scheme covers various family-related themes such as education for new parents, parent-child education, maintenance of family relationships, strengthening of family cohesion and solidarity, inheritance of good family values and traditional virtues, and other marriage-related subjects, etc to meet the needs of different families. Apart from the above-mentioned themes, applicant organisations may apply for funding to organise suitable projects with other family-related themes having regard to the concern or needs of the community. A proposed project may feature more than one theme provided that they are family-related. The funding cap for each 12-month and 18-month project is $800,000 and $1,200,000 respectively.
          
         Details of the Scheme, including the application guide and application form, are available on the website of the Scheme (www.pfe.gov.hk). Interested eligible bodies and non-governmental organisations may submit applications.
     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Appointments – PSA looks forward to working with new Public Service Commissioner

    Source: PSA

    The PSA hopes the new Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche will be a good advocate for the value of the public service in supporting the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders.
    The PSA congratulates Sir Brian on his appointment. He has taken on this role at a very challenging time when the public service has been eroded by the Government through spending cuts and job losses.
    The PSA looks forward to having a constructive relationship with Sir Brian to ensure the public service is recognised for the great work it does.
    Through his long and distinguished service in many roles, he knows the value public service workers bring to issues. He has worked with governments in the past which have continued to build the public service so it can meet our challenges as a nation.
    We hope he brings to the role the courage to remind Ministers of the critical role that the public service plays.
    Te Kawa Mataaho, the Public Service Commission, has provided valuable leadership in recent years in building a public service that has provided rewarding career paths and one that has driven a consistent reduction in gender pay gaps, well ahead of the private sector.
    The PSA urges Sir Brian to weigh the progress that has been made when he takes on the role next month so he can provide quality advice to the Government that helps it better understand how the public service is helping us progress as a nation. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Update on postal services to United States

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Hongkong Post announced today (October 14) that, as advised by the postal administration of the United States, due to the impact of hurricane, mail delivery services to areas with postcodes 006–009, 214–268, 300–352, 354–399, 700, 701, 703–708, 710–714, 716–729 and 801–851 are subject to delay.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Commissioner initiated investigation into informed consent finds systems weaknesses

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    A Commissioner initiated investigation into patient consent for the involvement of junior medical staff, students and other trainees at North Shore Hospital has found systems weaknesses but no breach of the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (the Code).
    The Health and Disability Commissioner, Morag McDowell, initiated the investigation following a complaint from a registered nurse who was concerned that trainee doctors and medical students had provided services and received teaching in obstetric and gynaecology services, without patient consent.
    The Commissioner’s opinion considers how consent processes apply to teaching and clinical care situations, having regard to the qualifications and experience of the medical staff providing care.
    In particular, the Commissioner noted the distinction between medical students (who are not qualified as doctors), and trainees (qualified doctors undertaking specialist training – some of whom may be at the start of their careers and others who are very advanced but not yet qualified as a specialist in their chosen field). A critical issue for the investigation was to consider in what circumstances a patient’s participation in teaching needed to be specifically consented to.
    In the course of the investigation, it was identified that informed consent practices, policies and procedures were significantly inconsistent across Aotearoa New Zealand. There was also a lack of clarity about the application of the Code, which clearly requires that teaching involving patients must be undertaken only with their knowledge and consent.
    “Consumers cannot be involved in teaching without giving informed consent, and providers of health and disability services must ensure they have a robust system and culture for obtaining that consent,” said Ms McDowell.
    Ms McDowell found weaknesses in Health NZ Waitemata’s system – including its consent forms – noting the processes minimised student or trainee clinician’s involvement, and didn’t prompt introductions for explanations of the role, involvement or degree of supervision of the trainee. Where verbal discussions may have been held about teaching, they were not adequately documented, she said.
    In relation to the involvement of medical students, Ms McDowell said “Clinicians must be mindful that informed consent is more than just a tick box exercise, and they must be alive to individual patient circumstances. The wording of Health NZ’s 2018 consent form and apparent reliance on it to justify all medical student involvement beyond observation, was a significant weakness in Health NZ’s consent practices.”
    In relation to trainees, who are qualified doctors, there is more complexity when it comes to consent processes. While all medical student involvement in patient care represents teaching, trainees are not always providing care in situations where teaching is taking place, and therefore specific consent about teaching is not required. Each case will turn on its own facts.
    Ms McDowell’s adverse comment addressed consent and policy forms, medical students in theatres, trainees who are part of the team, sensitive examinations, and procedures under general anaesthesia.
    “Basic courtesy and respect for patients apply and, wherever practicable, consumers should know who is to be providing their care and what they will be doing. This is information that a reasonable consumer can expect to receive,” said Ms McDowell. She emphasised the particular importance of sharing this information when consumers are undergoing sensitive or intimate examinations.
    Ms McDowell commended the nurse for raising her concerns, first to Health NZ and then to HDC, noting her complaint offered an opportunity to address significant inconsistencies in approaches to informed consent and knowledge of the Code. She also commended Health NZ for its efforts in undertaking a careful, ongoing review and improvement of its informed consent policy and practice.
    She made a range of recommendations including that Health NZ Waitematā develop patient information about clinical teaching to ensure it is easy to understand and emphasises patient choice. She has also asked Health NZ to report back on progress on its national policy on informed consent. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Kings Quarry extension declined consent under COVID-19 Fast-track Act

    Source: Environmental Protection Authority

    An independent panel has declined resource consent to expand a quarry in Wainui, Auckland.
    Kings Quarry Limited applied for resource consent under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020.
    The project involved expanding an existing quarry at Pebble Brook Road in Wainui, Auckland.
    The decision comes 196 working days after the application was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority.
    The Environmental Protection Authority is not involved in the decision-making. We provide procedural advice and administrative support to the panel convenor, Judge Laurie Newhook, and the expert consenting panel he appoints.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Clear skies and colder temperatures on the way – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 14 – Thursday 17 October – While showers and wind gusts of up to 90km/h, and possibly also thunderstorms and hail affect northern and central Aotearoa New Zealand today (Monday), MetService is forecasting clear skies for much of the working week.

    A low-pressure system west of Taranaki resulted in a wet and windy start to the week for much of the country, with especially persistent and heavy rain for the south coast of the North Island. MetService’s Kelburn weather station recorded its fifth wettest 9am-9am period for October, measuring 70.2mm of rain, with records there tracing back to 1927. While this persistent rain is on its way out this afternoon, further showers and gusty winds are expected for the North Island as the low begins to traverse the country.

    MetService meteorologist Ngaire Wotherspoon says, “The passage of the low brings a risk of thunderstorms and hail for much of the North Island, with the risk mainly inland for areas south of the Bay of Plenty. Auckland and Northland could see strong wind gusts of 90 km/h this evening.”

    Down south it’s a fine day, but an approaching cold front brings rain with snow to 800 metres over the Deep South tonight. As the front sweeps northwards over the country on Tuesday, colder temperatures will be noticeable, alongside a period of rain for eastern areas.

    Behind the front, skies clear and winds ease, though the cold air lingers. Frosts are in store for the South Island and interior North Island, and daytime temperatures in the east are expected to be 4 – 6°C below their October averages.

    “We expect this fine weather to stick around for much of the working week, before taking a wetter turn over the upper South Island on Friday,” adds Wotherspoon.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –