NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI China: Eagle Yang’s reputation soars after US tryouts

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    A virtual unknown before the draft combine, China’s NBA prospect Yang Hansen has introduced himself, big time, to league scouts, with his impressive outing at the trial camp turning heads.

    Dubbed “baby Jokic” by his Chinese fans, Yang has finally put his intriguing blend of size, skills and basketball IQ on display for club executives in the NBA, after the 19-year-old center, a fan of three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic, completed last week’s Draft Combine in Chicago with flying colors.

    The Qingdao Eagles’ Yang Hansen (L)  goes for a layup during the game against the Zhejiang Lions at the 2024-2025 CBA league in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province on April 23, 2025. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

    After being scrutinized in a series of physical tests, skill drills, interviews and five-on-five scrimmages at the combine event, Yang has significantly raised his draft stock, according to multiple United States media platforms and draft analysts, with the young pro having emerged as a potential first-round pick, from his projected mid-second round slot before the tryout.

    At the combine, which gathered 75 top prospects from the US collegiate system, the G-League and overseas programs, Yang measured solidly.

    He stands at a towering 7-foot-1 (2.16-meters) without shoes (2nd overall), posting a 9-foot-3 standing reach (fourth overall). He also ranked fifth among all the centers in the shuttle run, lane agility and three-quarter sprint at the event, showing excellent mobility and coordination for a post player of his stature.

    Through a total 37 minutes from two scrimmages, Yang showed off his size and all-around game for the first time under the watchful eyes of NBA franchise scouts and front-office staff, after honing his game for two years playing in the CBA with the Qingdao Eagles.

    Despite his current weaknesses in conditioning, strength and speed in defensive rotations, Yang contributed 12 points, on 5-for-7 shooting, and two assists in his first scrimmage, and backed it up with another 11 points on 75 percent shooting, six assists and six rebounds in the second.

    He certainly stood out, to say the least.

    “No matter Yang’s short-term future, it’s clear he improved his standing while in Chicago, and is now firmly on NBA radars, even if he still has work to do on his game,” ESPN basketball insider Jonathan Givony wrote in his draft analysis.

    Another ESPN pundit Jeremy Woo agreed, saying that the scrimmages really worked well to enhance Yang’s draft prospects.

    “Overall, Yang looked like he belonged at the combine, and held his own against an experienced, physical opponent in Michigan’s Vlad Goldin, exceeding expectations for many who were unfamiliar with him coming in,” Woo wrote in his analysis.

    After watching Yang’s performance in Chicago, Derek Parker, a Draft Digest staff writer with Sports Illustrated, listed the young Chinese national team member as one of the surprises of the combine camp.

    And he believes Yang is still just scratching the surface of his huge potential as an all-rounder.

    “Yang likely won’t be able to avoid G-League time if drafted, given how high the skill jump to the NBA will be, and certain negatives like conditioning and foot speed,” Parker wrote.

    “But, there’s a very real chance that, with his feel for the game — and most notably his high passing prowess for a big man — that he could play NBA minutes down the road.

    “Should any singular team fall in love with his skill set as a potential passing hub with scoring and defensive upside, he could very well earn first-round buzz at this year’s draft.”

    Yang’s relatively stronger-than-expected performance at the combine event, however, should be kept in perspective, with most projected lottery picks, such as toppick favorite Cooper Flagg of Duke, sitting out all the scrimmages.

    The humble youngster seems to have dealt all the hype and buzz with a cool head.

    “The small exam has been done. It went quite smoothly overall,” Yang posted on his social media account on Sunday.

    “I appreciate all the encouragement and support. Yet, I should face the gap between myself at the moment, and the highest level, with an objective eye. Whatever result it brings, each step counts on the journey,” said Yang, who will turn 20 on June 26 — the night of the draft in Brooklyn, New York.

    Developed in Qingdao’s youth system, Yang first garnered international attention when he led China to a third-place finish at the FIBA U18 Asian Championship in 2022.

    He then tallied 12.6 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.7 assists and a tournament-leading 5 blocks at the U19 World Cup in Hungary, where he was named on the youth tourney’s All-Second Team.

    In only his second professional season in the CBA, Yang has averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3 assists and 2.6 blocks per game in 45 starts with the Qingdao Eagles in the 2024-25 regular season, before leading the No 8 seed into quarterfinals of the playoffs, where Qingdao was narrowly edged out 3-2 by the league-leading Zhejiang Lions in the best-of-five series last month.

    Having been selected into the All-CBA first team in his first two seasons, Yang’s untapped potential, despite being relatively unknown to fans abroad, became evident in the US when Klutch Sports Group, a sports agency founded by LeBron James’ business partner Rich Paul, signed him in January.

    Yang met Paul right after arriving in Los Angeles earlier this month for the Draft Combine, and will continue attending tryouts after being invited by a growing list of NBA franchises, according to Klutch Sports Group.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Is taking photos on a plane allowed?

    Source:

    Reviewed May 2025

    Can passengers take photos and videos on a plane? That’s a good question when most of us have easy access to our phones and inflight Wi-Fi being increasingly offered to passengers. Another public setting where this question might arise is recording of patients and staff in hospitals. Read our AskUs answer to the question, ‘Can I record someone without telling them?‘

    An important consideration is whether the recording is taking place in a public or private space. Generally, the Privacy Act says taking photos or recordings in public places is allowed. It also depends on who is taking the photo or making the recording, and whether the photos could be categorised as highly offensive.

    Businesses

    If you’re an agency (business or organisation) or if you’re taking the photo or making the recording on behalf of a business or agency, you need to consider the general obligations around collection of personal information (see principles 1-4 of the Privacy Act).

    Individuals

    If you are an individual and you’re taking the photo or making the recording in a personal capacity, it won’t usually be an issue under the Privacy Act. Most passengers on planes and visitors to hospitals will fall into this category, and if they were to make a recording on a flight, it will be in their personal capacity. But there are two things that a passenger should keep in mind.

    1. It is always good practice to seek permission when an individual is the subject of your photo or recording. This is courteous and respectful of the privacy of others
    2. The use of some public facilities, for instance, parks or swimming pools, will be subject to conditions that may impose limits on what you can film or record. For example, many swimming pools have clearly stated policies that photos and recordings are not permitted. Similar restrictions could apply to a passenger planeor a hospital.

    While a commercial space like a passenger plane is essentially a public space, the airline may impose rules around whether a passenger can film or record. It can set this out in its passenger terms and conditions and in its passenger education.

    However, the personal capacity exemption does not apply where the collection, use or disclosure could be “highly offensive”. This means there are circumstances where it generally isn’t appropriate for individuals to take photos or make recordings, even when they’re in a public space.

    Emergencies

    Is it acceptable for other passengers to film a mid-air medical emergency involving another passenger and post it online? We don’t think so. A medical situation would likely involve sensitive information about an individual who is vulnerable, and so this could be considered highly offensive.

    In our view, an incident that may be embarrassing to an airline does not mean it is highly offensive. The case involving United Airlines and David Dao on a US domestic flight is a famous example. In this case, video taken by other passengers of Mr Dao being forcibly removed from the flight after he refused to give up his seat was used as key evidence.

    What happens when people disagree? 

    Individual passengers and air crew may disagree about whether photos or recordings are acceptable. Ultimately, all parties should exercise restraint, consideration and common sense on a flight, as they should in other walks of life. If you wouldn’t want someone to do it to you, don’t do it to others.

    , , , ,

    Back

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: Promoting research and development of Hong Kong

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Tang Fei and a written reply by the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, in the Legislative Council today (May 21):
     
    Question:
     
    According to a research publication released by the Legislative Council Secretariat last month, the number of research and development (R&D) personnel per million population in Hong Kong is significantly lower than that of neighbouring regions, and the proportion of local research postgraduates is continuously declining. There are views that research postgraduates also face multiple challenges in employment and the transformation of research outcomes. If such issues are not addressed in a timely manner, Hong Kong’s future innovation development and economic restructuring will be affected. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) given that according to the aforesaid research publication, Hong Kong currently has only 4 809 researchers per million population, lagging far behind Singapore and South Korea, whether the Government has drawn up specific measures to attract and nurture local R&D talent, particularly in STEM fields; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; whether it has set specific targets and timelines to increase the number of local R&D personnel in the next three years;
     
    (2) given that according to the aforesaid research publication, in the 2022-2023 academic year, only 63 per cent of research postgraduates from universities funded by the University Grants Committee secured full-time employment within six months after graduation, and only 11.6 per cent of graduates could manage to find jobs directly related to their studies, whether the Government has tailor-made support measures to address the employment challenges faced by research postgraduates, so as to help them maximise their potential and meet the needs of the local R&D industry; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) as there are views pointing out that while Hong Kong’s R&D outcomes reach international standards, they fall short in terms commercialisation and industrialisation, whether the Government will strengthen efforts to promote industry-academia-research collaboration to enhance the industrialisation of R&D outcomes and foster the development of an innovative economy; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The Government has all along been dedicated to promoting the development of innovation and technology (I&T), with a view to driving economic restructuring and more diversified development. Apart from the nation’s clear support for Hong Kong’s development into an international I&T hub under the 14th Five-Year Plan, the recently promulgated 2024-2035 master plan on building China into a leading country in education also proposed to establish an integrated co-ordinating mechanism for education, technology and talent, strengthening the supportive role of education for science and talent, closely tying in with the development of technological innovative centres in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the development of a highland for high-level calibre and platform for attracting talent, and enhancing the overall efficacy of the innovation system.
     
    The replies from the Education Bureau and the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau to the Hon Tang Fei’s question are as follows:
     
    (1) and (2) The Government has been expanding the local research and I&T talent pool through a multi-pronged approach. On the front of nurturing talent, the Government guides the University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities to align their planning with the nation’s strategy of invigorating China through science and education, and support the goal of developing Hong Kong into an international I&T hub, including setting the key performance indicators in the 2022 Policy Address with 35 per cent of the students pursuing UGC-funded programmes to study in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) subjects. In addition, publicly-funded research postgraduate (RPg) places have been gradually increased from 5 595 in the 2022/23 academic year to 7 200 places in the 2024/25 academic year. Together with the gradual uplift of the over-enrolment ceiling from 70 per cent in the 2021/22 academic year to 100 per cent, institutions could flexibly enrol 14 400 RPg students at most, which is an increase of more than half, to constantly expand the I&T and research talents of Hong Kong.
     
    Additionally, the STEM Internship Scheme under the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) subsidises undergraduates and postgraduates taking full-time STEM-related programmes to enrol in short-term internships, so as to foster their interest early in pursuing careers in I&T after graduation. The Research Talent Hub under the ITC also provides funding support for eligible companies or organisations to engage university graduates to conduct research and development (R&D) work.
     
    For attracting talent front, the InnoHK Research Clusters has successfully attracted R&D talents from all over the world to Hong Kong, with over 2 500 local, overseas and Mainland researchers involved, and has provided training for over 1 200 PhD students. The ITC will launch the Frontier Technology Research Support Scheme, with a view to attracting international top-notch talents to conduct basic research in frontier technologies in Hong Kong and nurture local researchers.
     
    According to the report “Hong Kong Innovation Activities Statistics 2023” released by the Census and Statistics Department in December 2024, the number of R&D personnel has reached 43 403 in 2023, which has increased steadily over the years.
     
    (3) With an aim to enhance the I&T ecosystem and Hong Kong’s competitiveness on the I&T front, the Government has been promoting collaboration among the industry, academic and research sectors through various measures, and adopting a multi-pronged approach to support commercialisation of R&D outcomes of local universities. For example, the $10 billion Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-plus Scheme under the Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) funds, on a matching basis, research teams from universities with good potential to become successful start-ups to transform and commercialise their R&D outcomes, while industry sponsorship is a mandatory requirement. Furthermore, the ITF will continue to provide annual funding to the Technology Transfer Office of each of the eight UGC-funded universities, thereby supporting the development of innovative ideas and R&D outcomes into new products or services. The R&D centres set up by the Government have also been taking forward industry-driven applied R&D work that suits market needs and transferring technologies to the industries through contract researches, licensing arrangements, etc to commercialise their R&D outcomes. Meanwhile, the Government facilitated the establishment of the Hong Kong New Industrialisation Development Alliance. Pooling together talent and resources from various fields, the Alliance aims to serve as a platform for collaboration among the Government, industry, academia, research and investment sectors. With a view to promoting co-operation among enterprises and organisations, we believe that the Alliance will also be conducive to the promotion of transformation and commercialisation of R&D outcomes.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ ‘running out of patience’ – Peters lashes Israel over Gaza aid blockade

    RNZ News

    New Zealand has joined 23 other countries calling out Israel and demanding a full supply of foreign aid be allowed into the territory.

    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters told RNZ Morning Report today it was “intolerable” that Israel had blocked any aid reaching residents for many weeks.

    The UN is warning that 14,000 babies are estimated to be suffering severe acute malnutrition in Gaza and ideally they need to get supplies within 48 hours.

    The UK, France and Canada have expressed their frustration, with the UK’s Foreign Secretary David Lammy telling Parliament the war in Gaza had entered a “dark new phase” and the UK was cancelling trade talks with Israel.

    Although the situation had come about because of acts of terrorism by Hamas, for residents in Gaza it had become “intolerable”, Peters told Morning Report.

    “We’ve had enough of this and we want the matter resolved and now.”

    A full resumption of aid should have happened a long time ago and it was essential that the United Nations be involved in delivering it.

    ‘Had enough of it’
    “… we’ve just simply had enough of it, utterly so [from Israel].”

    The statement by the countries reaffirmed what had been said for a long time that Israel must make aid available.

    New Zealand also opposed Israel’s latest expansion of military operations in Gaza, Peters said.

    The Palestinian Authority and countries such as Egypt and Indonesia understood New Zealand’s position.

    “We just want to sort this out and the long-term thing [Palestinians’ future alongside Israel] has got to be resolved as well.

    “Israel needs to get the message very clear — we are running out of patience and hearing excuses.”

    Asked if the Israeli ambassador should be called in so the message could be conveyed more clearly, he said it would be a symbolic gesture that would not help starving babies.

    Israel already knew what this country’s stance was, he said.

    It was an appalling situation that had started with “unforgivable terrorism” but Israel had gone “far too far” in its response, Peters said.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Win tickets to fly Bendigo to Sydney as Bendigo Airport celebrates milestone

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    Bendigo Airport is buzzing with excitement as it celebrates a major milestone – over 100,000 passengers have enjoyed the QantasLink Bendigo to Sydney flight service.

    To mark this incredible achievement, Bendigo Airport is launching an exciting competition with four Qantas return flight tickets to Sydney up for grabs.

    Bendigo Airport Manager Vicki Bayliss said the 100,000-passenger milestone illustrated the growing success of the regional airport service.

    “In April 2019, the city welcomed the arrival of QantasLink and regular passenger flights between Bendigo and Sydney,” Ms Bayliss said.

    “Despite the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting the airport’s growth for a time, the community returned when borders opened to support this important service, and I would like to thank you for contributing to the airport’s continuing success.

    “It is clear word is out about the advantages of flying from Bendigo Airport’s new terminal.

    “It is a stress-free experience when you choose Bendigo Airport, with ample cheap parking close to the new terminal building, a seamless and quick check-in, and great customer service from our dedicated staff.

    “The service is proving popular with the business community and holidaymakers.

    “There were just over 5,000 passengers when the service first started in 2019 and six years on it has increased to 100,000 which is significant growth.

    “To have an airport in central Victoria is so convenient and important for Greater Bendigo residents and for people living in surrounding shires.

    “It means less time commuting to Melbourne and more time enjoying your trip. Flying direct to Sydney from Bendigo Airport takes less than two hours and provides connection access to more than 100 destinations across Australia and internationally.

    “Flights between Bendigo and Sydney can now carry more people with a faster flight time after the introduction of Qantas’s expanded Dash 8-400 fleet last October.”

    To celebrate the milestone of 100,000 passengers, Bendigo Airport, in collaboration with Qantas, is launching an exciting competition in the City of Greater Bendigo’s free GB magazine. The autumn edition is hitting mailboxes this week. There is also a digital version on the City’s website for residents who do not have access to a printed copy.

    For your chance to win one of four return flight tickets from Bendigo to Sydney on QantasLink, complete the entry form and enter a code. The competition is open until 11:59 PM (AEST) Friday, May 30. Terms and Conditions apply.

    “Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Enter the GB magazine competition now and you might be one of four lucky GB magazine readers who will soon be flying up and away from Bendigo Airport,” Ms Bayliss said.

    To view the digital version of GB magazine, visit:

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s lesser-known destinations draw more inbound tourists

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    .

    Basking in the sunshine, John Jammet and his wife sat in the courtyard of a traditional house in the historic Pingyao County of north China’s Shanxi Province, with coffee in hand. Their trip seemingly offered them a glimpse into the lives of Chinese back in the day.

    “Last night we traveled in the main streets and the lanterns were very beautiful,” said the man from France. “What attracted me most were a lot of young girls and boys wearing traditional clothes. It showed that they love their culture and history.”

    Fascinated by the video game “Black Myth: Wukong,” Jammet became interested in the culture behind it, and thus decided to come to China and have a look. The couple carefully planned their trip, with it including China’s capital Beijing, Pingyao, the ancient capital Xi’an in northwest China and the picturesque Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in south China, reflecting their quest to see “both modern cities and traditional culture.”

    “In the Western world, I think there is misunderstanding about China, because our countries are different,” he explained. “It is important to see with our own eyes what’s the truth about China. For me, China is safe and clean, people are kind and helpful.”

    At the mention of China, images that immediately jump into the minds of many foreign tourists are normally the Great Wall, giant pandas and the many skyscrapers in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai in east China.

    Thanks partly to China’s eased visa policies, an increasing number of foreign tourists are now also turning their attention to lesser-known destinations to delve deeper into Chinese history and culture, just like Jammet and his wife.

    Foreign tourists learn to make traditional wheaten food at a homestay in Pingyao, north China’s Shanxi Province, May 15, 2025. (Photo by Qiao Yan/Xinhua)

    OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

    As of the beginning of May, China has granted unilateral visa-free entry to people from 38 countries, and has extended its visa-free transit period to 240 hours for travelers from 54 countries.

    In 2024, China recorded 64.88 million border crossings by foreign nationals, an 82.9-percent increase year on year. In the first quarter of 2025, this number stood at 17.44 million, up 33.4 percent compared to the same period in 2024.

    During the five-day May Day holiday, the most recent vacation in China for family outings and tourism, statistics regarding air ticket bookings on Chinese travel services platform Qunar showed that in addition to the megacities of Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the lower-tier cities of Chengdu, Xiamen, Nanjing, Chongqing and south China’s Haikou were also among the top-ranking destinations for non-Chinese tourists. In addition, hotel bookings made by foreign passport holders in Zhuhai, east China’s Qingdao and central China’s Wuhan grew by 70, 60 and 50 percent respectively.

    Hotels, restaurants and even hairdressers in residential areas not very close to traditional attractions in Beijing are beginning to greet foreign tourists, while small cities and counties are also seeing more inbound visitors.

    Zachary Iziah Smith, an American travel blogger, poses for a photo at Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, northwest China’s Gansu Province, April 11, 2025. (Xinhua)

    Kang Mobei is general manager of a shop affiliated to the Gansu Provincial Museum, which sells creative cultural products inspired by items in the museum, like a green fluffy toy based on the iconic copper galloping horse.

    Notably, Gansu Province in northwest China is home to many historical sites, including the Mogao Grottoes UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the May Day holiday, she found more foreign tourists in her shop, many of whom came from countries like Australia, Indonesia, Thailand and Japan.

    “Some of them had already been to the museum, and a few even showed me pictures they found on social media platforms like ‘rednote’ when asking for products,” said Kang, who observed that some customers had fluffy toys from other creative cultural product shops dangling from their bags.

    With overseas customers in mind, the store installed POS machines for international bank cards and carried out language training for their staff.

    A foreign visitor (L) learns how to make matcha beverage at a tea industrial park in Jiangkou County, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

    EASIER, FASTER, BETTER KNOWN

    To meet this increasing demand from foreign customers for niche tourist destinations, Chen Wanni and Chen Min last year founded China Explorer Tour (CET), a tour operating company specializing in authentic food, adventure and cultural-immersion themed retreats and experiences across China.

    “It was more successful than we had expected,” said Chen Wanni, admitting that she was prepared for a loss in the first year, but surprisingly they managed to break even. The referral rate of the tourist routes reached 60 percent, with many customers recommending to their friends to come back, while quite a few have come more than once.

    “Tourism is not only an industry, but also a window for overseas travelers to learn about China,” she said.

    Chen Min informed Xinhua that more and more overseas tourists are expressing interest in China’s lesser-known destinations, in addition to the traditional attractions, representing the maturity of the nation’s tourism industry in recent years.

    Tom Peacock-Nazil from Britain last September booked a 10-day tour with CET, and visited not only Beijing and Xi’an but also southwest China’s Guizhou Province, where he saw both the stunning beauty of nature and various ethnic cultures.

    “I realized I had massively underestimated China,” he said. “I think I’ve fallen in love with China. That’s mainly because we’ve been off the beaten track. I’m dying to come back and I’ve been learning about other provinces. I’ve got plans already.”

    Tom Peacock-Nazil (2nd R) and other tourists pose for a photo in Leishan County, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, in September 2024. (China Explorer Tour/Handout via Xinhua)

    Sun Weili, a regional manager with the Chinese travel platform Trip.com Group, noted that the surge in foreign tourists for in-depth tours in China is a result of combined efforts. “Along with eased visa policies, they can also feel the convenience in terms of payment and traffic, as well as more diversified tours,” he said.

    For instance, a 16-day luxury train tour from Chengdu to Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has attracted overseas visitors, which promises to take them to an in-depth journey to the northwestern region. So far tickets for all the 10 trips between May and October have been sold out, with 70 percent of the customers inbound tourists.

    Meanwhile, thanks to movies, video games and social media, Chinese culture is better promoted across the world, luring more curious overseas visitors to have a closer look. “We are more open and confident,” Sun said.

    Zhang Jun, who is with a travel agency in Datong in Shanxi, has worked as a tour guide for 18 years. He has noted the huge development of inter-city transportation which has made self-guided tours possible. “For instance, we used to sit in overnight trains and transfer to reach Pingyao from Beijing. But now the journey takes less than four hours.”

    John Jammet this time traveled in China for 15 days, which he found not enough to explore the country. “China is big,” he said. “I might need to spend a month here.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash: State Highway 12, Matakohe

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Motorists are advised to expect delays on State Highway 12, west of Gallid Road, Matakohe.

    Emergency services are in attendance at a crash, reported at around 1.15pm.

    A car has left the road and landed in a ditch.

    Police advise that although both lanes are currently open, traffic restrictions are in place.

    A ‘stop-go’ system will be implemented to enable the vehicle to be retrieved.

    An update will be provided in due course regarding injuries.

    ENDS.

    Nicole Bremner/NZ Police 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Hassan Presses Homeland Security Secretary Noem on Protecting Constitutional Rights and Secures Commitment to Follow Court Orders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – During a Senate Homeland Security Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) questioned Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about preserving the fundamental constitutional protection of habeas corpus, which requires that the government provide a reason for detaining or imprisoning someone, as well as an opportunity for that person to seek judicial review of their detention. There have been recent reports that the Trump Administration is considering unilaterally suspending habeas corpus. Senator Hassan also pressed Secretary Noem on critical national security challenges, including the rise of AI-enabled cybercrime targeting seniors and vulnerabilities in U.S. critical infrastructure from attacks by adversaries like China. 
    To watch Senator Hassan’s hearing questions, click here.
    Senator Hassan began by questioning Secretary Noem about the fundamental constitutional protection of habeas corpus after the Trump Administration stated it was considering suspending this right. Secretary Noem incorrectly defined habeas corpus as “a constitutional right that the President has to be able to remove people from this country.” Senator Hassan explained that “habeas corpus is the legal principle that requires that the government provide a public reason for detaining and imprisoning people. If not for that protection, the government could simply arrest people, including American citizens, and hold them indefinitely for no reason.” She emphasized that “habeas corpus is the foundational right that separates free societies like America from police states like North Korea. As a Senator from the Live Free or Die state, this matters a lot to me and my constituents and to all Americans.” 
    Senator Hassan then secured a commitment from Secretary Noem that she would follow court orders if the President attempted to suspend habeas corpus and a federal court reversed that order. “I’m glad that you have now committed to following court orders. I’m glad you believe in the basic freedom for Americans if ordered to do so by a court,” said Senator Hassan. 
    Senator Hassan then asked how the Department of Homeland Security is addressing increasingly sophisticated cyber criminals targeting Americans. These criminals use new tools and techniques, including artificial intelligence-generated imagery, to rob Americans, including seniors who lost $5 billion to scammers in 2024 alone. Senator Hassan also raised concerns about recent reports that the Chinese government installed remote access to Chinese-made power inverters, potentially allowing China to disable parts of our power grid. She pushed Secretary Noem to bolster DHS’s efforts to partner with state and local governments on cybersecurity. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 21, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 21, 2025.

    Australian para sport has issues everywhere – here’s what must be fixed ahead of the Brisbane Paralympics
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katherine Raw, Lecturer, Sport Management, Swinburne University of Technology Bratislav Kostic/Shutterstock Australia’s underwhelming performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics has raised serious questions about how well our adaptive sport system is working. The Paris games returned our lowest medal tally since 1988, from our smallest team since

    What’s the difference between skim milk and light milk?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Margaret Murray, Senior Lecturer, Nutrition, Swinburne University of Technology bodnar.photo/Shutterstock If you’re browsing the supermarket fridge for reduced-fat milk, it’s easy to be confused by the many different types. You can find options labelled skim, skimmed, skinny, no fat, extra light, lite, light, low fat, reduced fat,

    AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathryn Locke, Associate Researcher in Digital Disability, Centre for Culture and Technology, Curtin University Chansom Pantip/Shutterstock Since the recent explosion of widely available generative artificial intelligence (AI), it now seems that a new AI tool emerges every week. With varying success, AI offers solutions for productivity, creativity,

    NZ Budget 2025: science investment must increase as a proportion of GDP for NZ to innovate and compete
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicola Gaston, Director of the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Shutterstock/Olivier Le Queinec A lack of strategy and research funding – by both the current and previous governments – has been well documented, most comprehensively in the first report

    Starvation of Gaza – a distressing continuation of a decades-old plan
    SPECIAL REPORT: By Jeremy Rose Reading an NBC News report a couple of days ago about a Trump administration plan to relocate 1 million Gazans to Libya reminded me of a conversation between the legendary Warsaw Ghetto leader Marek Edelman and fellow fighter and survivor Simcha Rotem that took place more than quarter of a

    Spotify continues to change music. What’s next – will AI musicians replace music made by humans?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Spotify was started, according to its official claims, because its founders “love music and piracy was killing it”. In Mood Machine, music journalist Liz Pelly argues this is rewriting history. In fact, she

    Feats of the human body behind Tom Cruise’s stunts in Mission: Impossible movies
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Baumgardt, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol He’s leapt from cliffs, clung to planes mid-takeoff and held his breath underwater for as long as professional freedivers. Now, at 62, Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt for one final mission – and

    After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham After a two-hour phone call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on May 19, US president Donald Trump took to social media to declare that Russia and Ukraine will “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire and an end to

    The public service has a much smaller gender pay gap than the private sector. It’s a big achievement
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leonora Risse, Associate Professor in Economics, University of Canberra NDAB Creativity/Shutterstock After two years of publishing the gender pay gaps of Australia’s private-sector companies, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency has released public-sector employer data for the first time. The report shows a stark contrast between the private

    For making stars, it’s not just how much gas a galaxy has that matters – it’s where it’s hiding
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barbara Catinella, Professor and Senior Principal Research Fellow, International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), The University of Western Australia One of the galaxies mapped by WALLABY: the red shade shows the atomic hydrogen gas content of the galaxy, overlaid on an optical image showing the stars.

    The Queensland melioidosis outbreak is still growing. What’s keeping this deadly mud bug active?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thomas Jeffries, Senior Lecturer in Microbiology, Western Sydney University ap-studio/Shutterstock The outbreak of the deadly “mud bug” melioidosis in north Queensland has not yet abated since it began at the start of this year. So far there have been 221 cases and 31 deaths from the disease

    ‘Outdated and irrelevant’: what do young Australians think of their schooling?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jun Eric Fu, Senior Research Fellow, Youth Research Collective, The University of Melbourne LBeddoe/Shutterstock Australia’s school system – and whether it is doing its job – is often under the microscope from politicians, experts and parents. The most recent NAPLAN results in 2024 triggered a wave of

    Culture at the core: examining journalism values in the Pacific
    ANALYSIS: By Birte Leonhardt, Folker Hanusch and Shailendra B. Singh The role of journalism in society is shaped not only by professional norms but also by deeply held cultural values. This is particularly evident in the Pacific Islands region, where journalists operate in media environments that are often small, tight-knit and embedded within traditional communities.

    The band is breaking up: has the Coalition stopped making sense?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University I remember seeing footage, several years ago, of a jubilant Malcolm Turnbull, then prime minister and Liberal leader, speaking in Tamworth to loyal members of the National Party. These were the rank and file who had spent weeks

    Health chief ‘conductor of an orchestra who’s never played an instrument’
    ANALYSIS: By Ian Powell In February 2025, Dr Diana Sarfati resigned, not unexpectedly, as Director-General of Health after only two years into her five-year term. As a medical specialist, and in her role as developing the successful cancer control agency, she had extensive experience in New Zealand’s health system. However, she did not conform to

    Victorian budget has cash to splash on health, transport but new levies, job cuts, rising debt signal pain ahead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Hayward, Emeritus Professor of Public Policy, RMIT University There was not a lot of cheer in the media reporting ahead of the 2025/6 Victorian budget released on Wednesday. Debt and deficits dominated the coverage. All eyes turned to new treasurer, Jaclyn Symes, to see if in

    RBA cuts interest rates, ready to respond again if the economy weakens further
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock speaks at a forum during the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington in April. Jose Luis Magana/AP The Reserve Bank of Australia cut the official interest rate for the

    The Coalition is on a break, but the Nationals risk finding their former partner doesn’t want them back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda Botterill, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University In the weeks since the federal election, there’s been much speculation about the future of the Coalition agreement. In their soul-searching, it seemed possible the Liberals might pull the pin, given the degree of their

    Israel slammed over ‘cynical’ sidestep of global rulings on Gazan humanitarian aid
    Asia Pacific Report Israel has been accused of “manipulation” and “cynical” circumvention of global decisions calling for unrestricted humanitarian aid access to the besieged Gaza enclave. “In a clear act of defiance against international humanitarian obligations, the occupying state has permitted only nine aid trucks to enter the Gaza Strip — covering both the devastated

    Keith Rankin Analysis – The Aratere and the New Zealand Main Trunk Line
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. Government-owned Kiwirail is supposed to be presiding over the New Zealand Main Trunk (Railway) Line, from Auckland to Invercargill. As such it runs a ferry service (The Interislander) between New Zealand’s North and South Islands. We are being told by Kiwirail (and see today’s report on Radio NZ) that the only

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Submissions open for the Anzac Day Amendment Bill

    Source:

    This bill would amend the Anzac Day Act 1966 to cover conflicts and persons who have served New Zealand in past or future times of war or in warlike conflicts that are not currently covered by the Act.

    Tell the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee what you think

    Make a submission on the bill by 11.59pm on Thursday, 22 May 2025.

    For more details about the bill:

    ENDS

    For media enquiries contact:

    Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee staff

    fadt@parliament.govt.nz

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at LME Asia Metals Seminar 2025 (English only) (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the LME Asia Metals Seminar 2025 today (May 21):

    Carlson (Chairman of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX), Mr Carlson Tong), Bonnie (Chief Executive Officer of the HKEX, Ms Bonnie Chan), John (Chairman of the London Metal Exchange (LME), Mr John Williamson), Matthew (Chief Executive Officer of the LME, Mr Matthew Chamberlain), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Releases Statement on New Golden Dome Announcements

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement after President Donald J. Trump announced new plans and leadership for the Golden Dome missile defense system:
    “Golden Dome will help protect our homeland and our troops deployed abroad against the threat of advanced long-range missiles from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. I applaud the President for his leadership on Golden Dome, and I am proud that Congressional Republicans will make a $25 billion down payment on Golden Dome in the defense reconciliation bill. We cannot maintain deterrence without space superiority and an improved ability to conduct air and missile defense. General Guetlein has his work cut out for him, but I am confident he is the right person for the job.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on Financial Service Providers (Registration and Dispute Resolution) Amendment Bill

    Source:

    Media Release

    Organisation:   Finance and Expenditure Committee

    For release:     21 May 2025

    Have your say on Financial Service Providers (Registration and Dispute Resolution) Amendment Bill

    The Finance and Expenditure Committee is calling for submissions on the Financial Service Providers (Registration and Dispute Resolution) Amendment Bill. The closing date for submissions is 11.59pm on Monday, 23 June 2025.

    This bill is one of three that the Finance and Expenditure Committee is considering related to financial services. The other two bills are the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Bill and the Financial Markets Conduct Amendment Bill.

    Please take care to upload your submission on the relevant bill. 

    Financial dispute resolution is a free way for consumers to resolve disputes with their bank, insurer, KiwiSaver provider, or other financial service provider. This bill would make two changes to financial dispute resolution. The changes aim to ensure:

    • improved oversight of approved dispute resolution scheme performance, by requiring the responsible Minister to decide how the schemes must undertake their independent reviews
    • effective and impartial governance of the schemes’ boards, by providing for a regulation-making power that can be used to set skills, experience, and independence requirements of board members.

    Tell the Finance and Expenditure Committee what you think:

    Make a submission on the bill by 11.59pm on Monday, 23 June 2025.

    For more details about the bill:

    ENDS

    For media enquiries contact:

    Finance and Expenditure Committee Staff

    fe@parliament.govt.nz

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on Financial Markets Conduct Amendment Bill

    Source:

    Media Release

    Organisation:   Finance and Expenditure Committee

    For release:     21 May 2025

    Have your say on Financial Markets Conduct Amendment Bill

    The Finance and Expenditure Committee is calling for submissions on the Financial Markets Conduct Amendment Bill. The closing date for submissions is 11.59pm on Monday, 23 June 2025.

    This bill is one of three that the Finance and Expenditure Committee is considering related to financial services.  The other two bills are the Financial Service Providers (Registration and Dispute Resolution) Amendment Bill and the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Bill.

    Please take care to upload your submission on the relevant bill.

    The bill would:

    • change minimum requirements for fair conduct programmes to allow for more flexibility and to reduce unnecessary prescription and compliance costs
    • require the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) to issue a single licence covering different classes of market services
    • change provisions that require firms holding a licence under the Financial Markets Conduct Act, or authorised bodies, to obtain regulatory approval from the FMA before certain changes in firms take effect
    • introduce on-site inspection powers for the FMA to, without notice, enter and remain at a place of business of a financial markets participant for compliance monitoring purpose
    • make a number of other technical amendments.

    Tell the Finance and Expenditure Committee what you think:

    Make a submission on the bill by 11.59pm on Monday, 23 June 2025.

    For more details about the bill:

    ENDS

    For media enquiries contact:

    Finance and Expenditure Committee Staff

    fe@parliament.govt.nz

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Bill

    Source:

    Media Release

    Organisation:   Finance and Expenditure Committee

    For release:     21 May 2025

    Have your say on Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Bill

    The Finance and Expenditure Committee is calling for submissions on the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Bill. The closing date for submissions is 11.59pm on Monday, 23 June 2025.

    This bill is one of three that the Finance and Expenditure Committee is considering related to financial services. The other two bills are the Financial Service Providers (Registration and Dispute Resolution) Amendment Bill and the Financial Markets Conduct Amendment Bill.

    Please take care to upload your submission on the relevant bill.

    This bill would:

    • transfer regulatory responsibility for credit contracts and consumer finance from the Commerce Commission to the Financial Markets Authority
    • make certain alignments between the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 and other financial markets legislation to support a consistent and proportionate regulatory system, including transitioning lenders from a certification to a licensing regime
    • remove features of the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 (such as the due diligence duty for directors and senior managers) that are unnecessary because of, or do not fit as well with, the new regulatory approach (including the adoption of a licensing model)
    • limit the situations in which a creditor’s failure to make required initial or variation disclosure can mean that the debtor is not liable for the costs of borrowing.

    Tell the Finance and Expenditure Committee what you think:

    Make a submission on the bill by 11.59pm on Monday, 23 June 2025.

    For more details about the bill:

    ENDS

    For media enquiries contact:

    Finance and Expenditure Committee Staff

    fe@parliament.govt.nz

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The opening of the 2nd Lhasa Import Expo 2025 will mark a new chapter in international trade and economic cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    On May 16, under the theme of “Opening Up a New Lhasa, Opening Up New Opportunities for Everyone”, the 2nd Lhasa Import Expo 2025 opened in Pavilion 2 of the Xizang Exhibition Center. More than 250 companies and nearly 600 representatives from 31 countries and regions including Europe, Africa, South America, South Asia, Central Asia, ASEAN, Japan, the Republic of Korea, as well as Xiangang, Macao and Taiwan are participating in the event. As one of the key events celebrating the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Xizang Autonomous Region, the scale of the expo has been significantly expanded compared with the first session. Its aim is to build an international platform for economic cooperation and promote the deepening integration of Lhasa into foreign trade and the global supply chain.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The One China Principle Cannot Be Challenged, UNGA Resolution 2758 Cannot Be Distorted – Chinese Ambassador to Belarus

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Minsk, May 21 /Xinhua/ — The one-China principle cannot be challenged, UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 cannot be distorted, Chinese Ambassador to Belarus Zhang Wenchuan said in an article published in the SB. Belarus Segodnya newspaper on Monday.

    He noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Taiwan. The return of Taiwan to China is an important part of the results of the victory in World War II and the post-war international order.

    “I have noticed that recently, some countries have been distorting and challenging UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, spreading absurd claims such as that the resolution ‘does not confirm, equate or reflect the consensus on the one-China principle’, and rekindling the so-called ‘undefined status of Taiwan’ theory, thereby attempting to undermine the legal basis of the one-China principle. Such rhetoric, like the attempts of some countries to deny the enormous contribution of the Soviet people, including the Belarusian people, to World War II, not only distorts historical facts, but also openly challenges the authority of the UN and the post-war world order. This is extremely absurd and dangerous,” Zhang Wenchuan notes in his article.

    The diplomat particularly emphasized that the historical context and legal facts of Taiwan’s belonging to China since ancient times are obvious. There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan has been an integral part of China’s territory since time immemorial, which has long been a historical fact and international consensus.

    He also pointed out in the article that UNGA Resolution 2758 resolved the issue of who is the legitimate representative of China, which strengthened the international community’s commitment to the one-China principle. This resolution completely and finally secured China’s sole place in the UN from the political, legal and procedural points of view, and completely excluded any questions about the so-called “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan”. Challenging UNGA Resolution 2758 is tantamount to challenging the post-World War II world order and the authority of the UN.

    “Any action that challenges UNGA Resolution 2758 is not only a challenge to China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also a challenge to the authority of the UN and the international order established after World War II, and a flagrant reversal of history. Not only will 1.4 billion Chinese never agree with this, but all people around the world who defend truth and peace will also not support it,” the diplomat emphasized.

    “China and Belarus are all-weather and comprehensive strategic partners. Both sides unswervingly and firmly support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major issues, jointly safeguard the results of the victory in World War II and the post-war international order, and unite against all vile acts aimed at distorting the truth and history. China and Belarus will continue to uphold historical justice, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and jointly advance the great cause of building a community with a shared future for mankind,” Zhang Wenchuan concluded. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Case Receives 2025 National Statesmanship Award From U.S. Association Of Former Members Of Congress

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)

    (Washington, DC) — U.S. Representative Ed Case (HI-01) was presented with the 2025 Statesmanship Award by the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress (FMC) in a ceremony tonight in Washington, D.C.

    In presenting the prestigious award to Case, the FMC said:  “U.S. Representative Ed Case, who has the rare distinction of being both a current Member and a former Member, is a leader on issues ranging from education to environmental protection and more, bringing his collaborative and collegial approach to often-difficult debates as a member of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations and otherwise.

    “He exemplifies a pragmatic and productive approach to legislating that FMC considers essential for the nation’s success.”

    Case was joined in receiving this year’s award by U.S. Representative Young Kim (R-CA, and a graduate of St. Andrews Priory (now St. Andrews Schools) in Honolulu), and U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ).

    On receiving the award, Case said: “I’m deeply honored and somewhat embarrassed to receive this award, as there are a number of my House colleagues who deserve it.

    “I have always believed as they do that our representative democracy relies absolutely on inclusion and responsiveness to real citizen concerns with real practical problem solving. That is the only approach that will lead us out of this disturbing time to deep national division and polarization and validate to the rest of our world that democracy remains the best path forward.

    “It doesn’t mean that we ignore deep policy disagreements and debates and make the tough decisions when required. But it does mean that we must consciously and constantly work to strengthen the institutions and ability of our government to solve them. 

    The FMC (https://www.usafmc.org/) was founded over a half century ago and, at some 800 members today, is a “bipartisan, nonprofit, voluntary alliance of former United States Senators and Representatives, advocating for representative democracy at home and abroad.”

    Its annual Statesmanship Award is given to Members who have demonstrated a life-long dedication to solutions-based governing, respectful debate, and placing the interests of citizens above politics.

    Case served as U.S. Representative for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District from 2002 to 2007, following which he continued his involvement with Congress on various FMC efforts.  He was re-elected to the U.S. House in 2018 and is now serving his sixth full term in the House. He has served on the House Committee on Appropriations since his return to Congress, currently on the Subcommittees on Defense and on Homeland Security. Among other activities, he serves as Vice Chair of the House Problem Solvers Caucus (https://problemsolverscaucus.house.gov/), a bipartisan group of Members of Congress -evenly split between Republicans and Democrats – committed to advancing common-sense solutions to key issues facing our nation.

    ###

    Attachments: Pictures of U.S. Representatives Ed Case and Young Kim at tonight’s Statesmanship Awards ceremony, along with the Award to Case.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Kathryn Locke, Associate Researcher in Digital Disability, Centre for Culture and Technology, Curtin University

    Chansom Pantip/Shutterstock

    Since the recent explosion of widely available generative artificial intelligence (AI), it now seems that a new AI tool emerges every week.

    With varying success, AI offers solutions for productivity, creativity, research, and also accessibility: making products, services and other content more usable for people with disability.

    The award-winning 2024 Super Bowl ad for Google Pixel 8 is a poignant example of how the latest AI tech can intersect with disability.

    Directed by blind director Adam Morse, it showcases an AI-powered feature that uses audio cues, haptic feedback (where vibrating sensations communicate information to the user) and animations to assist blind and low-vision users in capturing photos and videos.

    Javier in Frame showcases an accessibility feature found on Pixel 8 phones.

    The ad was applauded for being disability inclusive and representative. It also demonstrated a growing capacity for – and interest in – AI to generate more accessible technology.

    AI is also poised to challenge how audio description is created and what it may sound like. This is the focus of our research team.

    Audio description is a track of narration that describes important visual elements of visual media, including television shows, movies and live performances. Synthetic voices and quick, automated visual descriptions might result in more audio description on our screens. But will users lose out in other ways?

    AI as people’s eyes

    AI-powered accessibility tools are proliferating. Among them is Microsoft’s Seeing AI, an app that turns your smartphone into a talking camera by reading text and identifying objects. The app Be My AI uses virtual assistants to describe photos taken by blind users; it’s an AI version of the original app Be My Eyes, where the same task was done by human volunteers.

    There are increasingly more AI software options for text-to-speech and document reading, as well as for producing audio description.

    Audio description is an essential feature to make visual media accessible to blind or vision impaired audiences. But its benefits go beyond that.

    Increasingly, research shows audio description benefits other disability groups and mainstream audiences without disability. Audio description can also be a creative way to further develop or enhance a visual text.

    Traditionally, audio description has been created using human voices, script writers and production teams. However, in the last year several international streaming services including Netflix and Amazon Prime have begun offering audio description that’s at least partially generated with AI.

    Yet there are a number of issues with the current AI technologies, including their ability to generate false information. These tools need to be critically appraised and improved.

    Is AI coming for audio description jobs?

    There are multiple ways in which AI might impact the creation – and end result – of audio description.

    With AI tools, streaming services can get synthetic voices to “read” an audio description script. There’s potential for various levels of automation, while giving users the chance to customise audio description to suit their specific needs and preferences. Want your cooking show to be narrated in a British accent? With AI, you could change that with the press of a button.

    However, in the audio description industry many are worried AI could undermine the quality, creativity and professionalism humans bring to the equation.

    The language-learning app Duolingo, for example, recently announced it was moving forward with “AI first” development. As a result, many contractors lost jobs that can now purportedly be done by algorithms.

    On the one hand, AI could help broaden the range of audio descriptions available for a range of media and live experiences.

    But AI audio description may also cost jobs rather than create them. The worst outcome would be a huge amount of lower-quality audio description, which would undermine the value of creating it at all.

    AI shouldn’t undermine the quality of assistive technologies, including audio description.
    Ground Picture/Shutterstock

    Can we trust AI to describe things well?

    Industry impact and the technical details of how AI can be used in audio description are one thing.

    What’s currently lacking is research that centres the perspectives of users and takes into consideration their experiences and needs for future audio description.

    Accuracy – and trust in this accuracy – is vitally important for blind and low-vision audiences.

    Cheap and often free, AI tools are now widely used to summarise, transcribe and translate. But it’s a well-known problem that generative AI struggles to stay factual. Known as “hallucinations”, these plausible fabrications proliferate even when the AI tools are not asked to create anything new – like doing a simple audio transcription.

    If AI tools simply fabricate content rather than make existing material accessible, it would even further distance and disadvantage blind and low-vision consumers.

    We can use AI for accessibility – with care

    AI is a relatively new technology, and for it to be a true benefit in terms of accessibility, its accuracy and reliability need to be absolute. Blind and low-vision users need to be able to turn on AI tools with confidence.

    In the current “AI rush” to make audio description cheaper, quicker and more available, it’s vital that the people who need it the most are closely involved in how the tech is deployed.

    Kathryn Locke is employed as a researcher on the Australian Research Council’s discovery grant, “Diversifying audio description in the Australian digital landscape”.

    Tama Leaver receives funding from the Australian Research Council. This work is supported by the discovery grant, “Diversifying audio description in the Australian digital landscape”. He is a chief investigator in the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child.

    – ref. AI is now used for audio description. But it should be accurate and actually useful for people with low vision – https://theconversation.com/ai-is-now-used-for-audio-description-but-it-should-be-accurate-and-actually-useful-for-people-with-low-vision-256808

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Firearm recovered following callout in Manurewa

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police have made two arrests and removed a firearm from the community in Manurewa.

    On Tuesday afternoon, Manurewa Police were called to a Great South Road property after a man was reportedly trying to gain entry.

    Counties Manukau Central Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Warrick Adkin says Police were called at about 3.40pm.

    “It was reported that a known offender was likely involved, and concerningly for us it was reported that he was in possession of a firearm,” he says.

    “Armed staff made an approach to the address, and located the victim who was unharmed, and the offender had not gained entry.”

    Meanwhile, the Police Eagle helicopter had deployed into the Manurewa area and located a vehicle of interest parked in Browns Road.

    “Eagle observed a man and woman exit an address and get into this vehicle and tracked it to South Mall,” Inspector Adkin says.

    Armed Police staff approached the parked vehicle and quickly took both occupants into custody.

    Inspector Adkin says methamphetamine was located in the vehicle, and a 42-year-old woman was arrested in relation to this.

    “No firearm was located in the vehicle; however a search of the Browns Road property located a cut down firearm, which is an excellent outcome.”

    “Seizing illegal firearms such as this, will reduce harm in our community and enhance public safety.” 

    A 38-year-old man will appear in the Manukau District Court charged with unlawful possession of a pistol and ammunition, along with speaks threateningly.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, State Highway 1, Timaru

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A person has died following a crash in Timaru this morning.

    Emergency services were called to the single-vehicle crash on Evans Street, State Highway 1, about 9.50am.

    Part of the road is expected to remain closed until later this afternoon while the Serious Crash Unit carries out a scene examination.

    The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: HKSAR gov’t launches 9 major tourism projects

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    HONG KONG, May 20 — China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on Tuesday announced nine projects to be implemented by the city’s working group on developing tourist hotspots.

    The nine projects to be implemented are: Hong Kong Industrial Brand Tourism, Victoria Park Bazaar, Creating a Pink Trumpet Tree Garden, Featured community: In-depth travel in Old Town Central, Featured community: In-depth travel in Kowloon City, Disciplinary Services Pioneer Tours, Opening of the Former Yau Ma Tei Police Station, “Four Peaks” Tourism, and Revistalizing the Former Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard Pier.

    The hotspots span across the territory, underlining the concept of “tourism is everywhere in Hong Kong.” There are indoor and outdoor hotspots, locales for visits and explorations, as well as places for enjoying the ecology and scenery.

    Cheuk Wing-hing, deputy chief secretary for Administration of the HKSAR government, said that new travel patterns and tourists’ preferences increasingly value hotspots with unique features that are part of the flavor of Hong Kong. The nine projects will bring tourists new experiences that are more in-depth and fascinating.

    The HKSAR government proposed in the 2024 Policy Address to set up a Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots, aiming to identify and develop tourist hotspots of high popularity to enhance the travel experience for tourists.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China welcomes, supports Pakistan, India handling differences through dialogue

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Beijing, capital of China, May 20, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China welcomes and supports Pakistan and India in properly handling their differences through dialogue, achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire and seek fundamental solutions, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in Beijing on Tuesday.

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when holding talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Mohammad Ishaq Dar, saying that this is in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of both sides, conducive to regional peace and stability, and also the common expectation of the international community.

    China and Pakistan have maintained close strategic communication on consolidating traditional friendship, strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation and jointly addressing challenges, which reflects the high level of bilateral relations, Wang said.

    He added that as ironclad friends, China will, as always, firmly support Pakistan in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, in resolutely combating terrorism, and in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs. Wang also emphasized China’s commitment to continuously deepening the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership with Pakistan.

    He called on both sides to join hands to create an upgraded version of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and promote cooperation on industry, agriculture, energy and minerals, human resources development, counter-terrorism and security.

    Dar said Pakistan cherishes the brotherly friendship with China, firmly adheres to the one-China principle, and supports China in safeguarding its national interests and dignity.

    He added that Pakistan admires China’s new development achievements, especially in innovation and sci-tech progress, looks forward to strengthening all-round cooperation with China, and hopes to continue to receive strong support from China in overcoming current difficulties and promoting national development, security and stability.

    Pakistan will do its best to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, projects and institutions in Pakistan, he said.

    Dar briefed on the latest situation following the ceasefire understanding between Pakistan and India, as well as Pakistan’s considerations. He thanked China for upholding justice and making unremitting efforts and significant contributions to the ceasefire and promoting peace, noting that Pakistan will resolutely safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and is willing to maintain dialogue with India and ease the situation.

    The two sides also exchanged views on strengthening regional cooperation and deepening coordination in multilateral mechanisms.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: World Health Assembly adopts global pandemic agreement

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The 78th World Health Assembly is held in Geneva, Switzerland, May 20, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The World Health Assembly (WHA), the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), adopted the global pandemic agreement on Tuesday.

    The “pandemic agreement” proposes the establishment of a series of new platforms and mechanisms aimed at comprehensively reforming the existing systems for pandemic surveillance, prevention, and response. It seeks to promote research and equitable sharing of pandemic-related products, adjust the production and distribution order of such products, and further improve the global public health governance system, with a particular focus on addressing fairness challenges in international health development.

    WHO member states, meeting on Monday in Committee A of the WHA, approved a resolution calling for adoption of the pandemic agreement. According to a press release on the WHO website, the resolution outlines several steps to advance global preparedness and pave the way for the agreement’s implementation.

    It includes the launch of a process to draft and negotiate an annex to the agreement that would establish a Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing system (PABS) through an Intergovernmental Working Group. The result of this process will be considered at next year’s WHA. Once the Assembly adopts the PABS annex, the pandemic agreement will then be open for signature and consideration of ratification, including by national legislative bodies.

    Following the adoption of the agreement, the Chinese delegation told Xinhua that China has been actively engaged in the agreement negotiation process. Guided by the vision of building a global community of health for all, China has upheld true multilateralism, advocated for greater solidarity and cooperation among countries, and supported the WHO in playing its central coordinating role.

    The Chinese delegation also noted that China has worked with all parties to improve the global health governance system and strengthen global capacity for prevention, preparedness, and response. On technical issues such as pandemic prevention and surveillance, China maintained a science-based approach, put forward constructive textual proposals, and actively contributed to the drafting process, playing an important role in promoting consensus among member states.

    In addition, China, along with countries including Brazil, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, actively responded to the legitimate concerns of developing countries regarding equitable access to health products under the framework of the Group for Equity. These efforts demonstrated China’s image as a responsible major country.

    WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told the assembly that “the WHO pandemic agreement will run among the most significant achievements in the history of this organization and of global health,” underscoring that it places humanity in a stronger position than ever before to prepare for and respond to pandemics.

    In November 2021, a special session of the WHA established an intergovernmental negotiating body tasked with drafting a pandemic agreement under the WHO framework to enhance global capacities for pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response.

    On April 16 this year, the WHO announced that, following more than three years of intensive negotiations, member states had reached a consensus on the draft text of the agreement, which was then submitted for consideration at the 78th session. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Spurs boss Postecoglou: ‘I’m not a clown’

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Tottenham Hotspur coach Ange Postecoglou insisted on Tuesday that his future at the club doesn’t depend on whether he leads it to success in Wednesday’s Europa League final against Manchester United in the Basque city of Bilbao.

    The two sides travel to the San Mames Stadium after disastrous domestic seasons with Manchester United are 16th in the Premier League, while Tottenham is a place below in 17th after suffering 21 league defeats and conceding 61 goals.

    Ange Postecoglou, manager of Tottenham Hotspur, attends the press conference at the Singapore Festival of Football held at the National Stadium in Singapore, July 25, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua)

    That has left to speculation that even if Postecoglou’s side lifts the trophy and qualifies for the Champions League as a result, he will leave at the end of the season.

    “Whatever happens beyond tomorrow is irrelevant when you think about the opportunity that exists right now and that is to provide something special for this football club, its supporters and everyone that has worked so hard for a trophy.”

    “If I was worried about my tenure at this football club, it’s fair to say we wouldn’t be in this position because I would have been distracted long ago,” responded the coach when asked about his future.

    Postecoglou said he was focused on “giving this football club its best opportunity that it has had for a while to do something special.”

    “Whatever happens after that, I’m very comfortable that I will continue trying to win trophies wherever I am,” he continued.

    Despite Tottenham’s poor league season, he insisted he has worked to the “process of getting the club to a position where they can challenge for trophies and at the same time, rejuvenate the squad and change the playing style. It has been a fair assignment with plenty of challenges along the way.”

    “With such a big game tomorrow, there is an opportunity to fulfil at least the main task I was given which was to bring trophies to the club,” continued Postecoglou, who was annoyed by a journalist who asked if Wednesday’s result would mean he would go down in history or infamy.

    “That depends on your outlook but I’ll tell you one thing, irrespective of tomorrow, I’m not a clown and never will be,” he replied.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What’s the difference between skim milk and light milk?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Margaret Murray, Senior Lecturer, Nutrition, Swinburne University of Technology

    bodnar.photo/Shutterstock

    If you’re browsing the supermarket fridge for reduced-fat milk, it’s easy to be confused by the many different types.

    You can find options labelled skim, skimmed, skinny, no fat, extra light, lite, light, low fat, reduced fat, semi skim and HiLo (high calcium, low fat).

    So what’s the difference between two of these common milks – skim milk and light milk? How are they made? And which one’s healthier?

    What do they contain?

    Skim milk

    In Australia and New Zealand, skim milk is defined as milk that contains no more than 1.5% milk fat and has at least 3% protein. On the nutrition information panel this looks like less than 1.5 grams of fat and at least 3g protein per 100 millilitres of milk.

    But the fat content of skim milk can be as low as 0.1% or 0.1g per 100mL.

    Light milk

    Light milk is sometimes spelled “lite” but they’re essentially the same thing.

    While light milk is not specifically defined in Australia and New Zealand, the term “light” is defined for food generally. If we apply the rules to milk, we can say light milk must contain no more than 2.4% fat (2.4g fat per 100mL).

    In other words, light milk contains more fat than skim milk.

    You can find the fat content by reading the “total fat per 100mL” on the label’s nutrition information panel.

    How about other nutrients?

    The main nutritional difference between skim milk and light milk, apart from the fat content, is the energy content.

    Skim milk provides about 150 kilojoules of energy per 100mL whereas light milk provides about 220kJ per 100mL.

    Any milk sold as cow’s milk must contain at least 3% protein (3g protein per 100mL of milk). That includes skim or light milk. So there’s typically not much difference there.

    Likewise, the calcium content doesn’t differ much between skim milk and light milk. It is typically about 114 milligrams to 120mg per 100mL.

    You can check these and other details on the label’s nutrition information panel.

    How are they made?

    Skim milk and light milk are not made by watering down full-cream milk.

    Instead, full-cream milk is spun at high speeds in a device called a centrifuge. This causes the fat to separate and be removed, leaving behind milk containing less fat.

    Here’s how fat is removed to produce skim and light milk.

    Who should be drinking what?

    Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend we drink mostly reduced-fat milk – that is, milk containing no more than 2.4g fat per 100mL. Skim milk and light milk are both included in that category.

    The exception is for children under two years old, who are recommended full-cream milk to meet their growing needs.

    The reason our current guidelines recommend reduced-fat milk is that, since the 1970s, reduced-fat milk has been thought to help with reducing body weight and reducing the risk of heart disease. That’s because of its lower content of saturated fat and energy (kilojoules/calories) than full cream milk.

    However, more recent evidence has shown drinking full-cream milk is not associated with weight gain or health risks. In fact, eating or drinking dairy products of any type may help reduce the risk of obesity and other metabolic disorders (such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes), especially in children and adolescents.

    The science in this area continues to evolve. So the debate around whether there are health benefits to choosing reduced-fat milk over full cream milk is ongoing.

    Whether or not there any individual health benefits from choosing skim milk or light milk over full cream will vary depending on your current health status and broader dietary habits.

    For personalised health and dietary advice, speak to a health professional.

    Margaret Murray 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. What’s the difference between skim milk and light milk? – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-between-skim-milk-and-light-milk-255608

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australian para sport has issues everywhere – here’s what must be fixed ahead of the Brisbane Paralympics

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katherine Raw, Lecturer, Sport Management, Swinburne University of Technology

    Bratislav Kostic/Shutterstock

    Australia’s underwhelming performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics has raised serious questions about how well our adaptive sport system is working. The Paris games returned our lowest medal tally since 1988, from our smallest team since 2004.

    This result hasn’t gone unnoticed.

    Ahead of the 2032 Brisbane games, now is the time to rebuild and strengthen grassroots disability sport across the country.

    To do this, we must focus on inclusive, sustainable and community-driven approaches that truly support people with disabilities from the very start.

    Issues at grassroots level

    Grassroots disability clubs are vital to the health of para sports in Australia.

    These local clubs give people with disabilities the chance to be active, which supports both physical and mental wellbeing.

    Just as importantly, they provide places where people can build friendships, feel included and develop a sense of belonging.

    Many paralympians start their journey in these environments; they’re not just places to play sport, they’re key to developing future talent.

    Current and former athletes have called for more and better participation opportunities in adaptive sport.

    Paralympian Leanne Del Toso called for more support for women’s wheelchair basketball after Australia missed qualification for the Rio and Paris Olympics.

    It shouldn’t be about funding, it shouldn’t be about access, it should be about equality.

    The message is clear: we need to rebuild from the ground up, starting with a stronger and more supportive grassroots system.



    Read more:
    If we truly want our Paralympic athletes to shine, their coaches need more support

    What are the main problems?

    Australia’s para sports system is often fragmented and inconsistent, especially compared to mainstream sports such as swimming or athletics, which usually have national pathways, structured support and a clear line from beginner to elite.

    But adaptive sports are often run in disconnected ways across different states, clubs or organisations.

    This system is often difficult to navigate for aspiring athletes.

    Another big part of the problem is the “mainstreaming” of adaptive sport: instead of creating separate systems designed specifically for people with disabilities, many sports fold disability sport into their existing structures.

    While this can sound inclusive, it often creates problems.

    Research shows this approach can actually narrow who gets to participate.

    Many organisations and leagues tend to follow a standard competitive model that doesn’t work for everyone, especially those with more complex needs.

    Even well-meaning attempts at inclusion can backfire if they don’t involve people with disability.

    That’s why researchers now believe adaptive sport only works when paired with real disability-specific knowledge, community consultation and strong systems of accountability.

    Without that, we risk reinforcing the very inequalities we’re trying to fix.

    Another problem is the lack of participation data.

    One of the main sources of sports participation data in Australia is the AusPlay survey.

    This gives some insight into who is playing sport and being active, but it doesn’t give enough detail when it comes to disability sport.

    For instance, while the AusPlay survey indicates 51% of adults with a disability engage in physical activity once per week, it lacks specificity regarding the activities these people participate in.

    This makes it hard for policymakers, funders and sport organisations to make smart decisions, as they don’t have enough information about who is participating, where the gaps are or how things are changing over time.

    With better data, we could target resources where they’re needed most, especially in communities that currently miss out.

    Some possible solutions

    If we want to fix these problems, we need a different approach.

    That starts with co-design: involving people with disabilities in designing the systems, programs and policies that affect them.

    It’s not just about asking for feedback, it’s about giving real decision-making power.

    A great example of this is Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT, which has embraced co-design and made it a core part of its programs.

    This has led to a 380% increase in membership over five years, and a record number of affiliated clubs across their network.

    This success shows what’s possible when sport organisations stop designing systems for people with disabilities and start designing with them.

    When people feel valued and heard, they are more likely to get involved and stay involved.

    Recent initiatives, such as the new para unit launched by the Western Australian Institute of Sport (the original home of Australia’s Paralympic movement), demonstrate promising steps towards a more cohesive para sport system.

    But grassroots sport isn’t about medals. While we all love to celebrate paralympic success, local sport has a much bigger role to play.

    It helps people with disabilities stay healthy, feel included and connect with their communities. It can change lives on and off the field.

    As we look to Brisbane 2032, it’s clear paralympic success doesn’t start at the top. It starts in the community and on local fields.

    If we invest now in grassroots sport and centre people with disabilities in the design and delivery of programs, we can create a stronger and more inclusive future for para sport in Australia.

    The author would like to acknowledge the contributions of Mick Garnett to discussions on the future of adaptive sport in Australia.

    Katherine Raw 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. Australian para sport has issues everywhere – here’s what must be fixed ahead of the Brisbane Paralympics – https://theconversation.com/australian-para-sport-has-issues-everywhere-heres-what-must-be-fixed-ahead-of-the-brisbane-paralympics-256450

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Superannuation on government-funded Parental Leave Pay

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    From 1 July 2025, the ATO will pay super on government-funded Parental Leave Pay – known as a Paid Parental Leave Super Contribution (PPLSC). To be eligible, each person must receive Parental Leave Pay from Services Australia for a child born or adopted from 1 July 2025. PPLSC is:

    • based on the Superannuation Guarantee rate, and will include an interest component
    • paid as a lump sum after the end of the financial year in which Parental Leave Pay was received
    • paid to the super fund where superannuation contributions are currently paid (including SMSFs).

    We’ll pay the first PPLSC in the 2026–27 financial year.

    If Parental Leave Pay is shared with another person, a superannuation contribution will be paid to each person’s superannuation fund, based on their portion of the Parental Leave Pay.

    It’s important that an eligible person:

    For more information about PPLSC, visit ato.gov.au/PPLSC

    Looking for the latest news for Super funds? You can stay up to date by visiting our Super funds newsroom and subscribingExternal Link to our monthly Super funds newsletter and CRT alerts.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: EV battery giant CATL lists in Hong Kong, marking largest IPO in years

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Guests attend the listing ceremony of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) at the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in south China’s Hong Kong, May 20, 2025. CATL was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on Tuesday, with the stock code 3750. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) on Tuesday listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange with shares surging over 10 percent at market opening.

    CATL announced allocation results showing that, before the exercise of the overallotment option, the Hong Kong public offering was oversubscribed by about 150.2 times, raising a total of approximately 35.66 billion HK dollars (4.55 billion U.S. dollars), with net proceeds of 35.33 billion HK dollars after deducting listing expenses.

    On its listing day, CATL opened at 296 HK dollars, rising 12.55 percent from its offering price of 263 HK dollars. By midday, it traded at 307.6 HK dollars, up 16.96 percent, with a turnover exceeding 5.7 billion HK dollars.

    Paul Chan, financial secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, said at the listing ceremony that CATL’s listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange can accelerate its global strategic expansion.

    Leveraging Hong Kong financing to support international growth is set to be a trend for mainland enterprises in export development, marking a new milestone in Hong Kong’s role in serving national development strategies, Chan added.

    Bonnie Chan, chief executive officer of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX), said that in terms of funds raised, CATL’s IPO is the largest in Hong Kong in recent years and the biggest globally so far this year. This demonstrated the depth of the Hong Kong market and its solid fundamentals in supporting large-scale financing projects.

    CATL is an innovative new energy technology company, primarily engaged in the research, development, production, and sales of EV batteries and energy storage system batteries. It is already listed on the A-share market. (1 U.S. dollar equals 7.82 HK dollars) 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Yili’s new product enters Hong Kong to accelerate global expansion

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese dairy giant Yili on Tuesday held a global product launch in Hong Kong, officially introducing its infant formula brand Pro-Kido to the local market.

    At the launch event, Yili’s Global Maternal and Infant Nutrition Research Center unveiled several advanced breast milk research findings and announced a strategic partnership with Hong Kong health retail chain Mannings.

    Currently, Yili has accumulated data on over 10 million breast milk components and secured more than 290 invention patents.

    Zhang Yipeng, vice president of Yili Group, said that the company aims to use Hong Kong as a gateway to seize opportunities with global partners and continue providing high-quality, nutritious, healthy and delicious products to consumers worldwide.

    Margaret Lau, head of Baby Care, Confectionery and GMS at Mannings HK, said this collaboration reflected the shared brand vision and market positioning, adding that Mannings looks forward to deepening its strategic partnership with Yili to bring more high-quality health solutions to Hong Kong families.

    Yili has established 15 innovation centers worldwide. It has built a high-standard supply chain covering dairy sources, raw materials, equipment, and quality control, forming deep partnerships with over 2,000 suppliers from 39 countries and regions. 

    MIL OSI China News –