NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.00 lakh (Rupees Three Lakh only) on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Maintenance of Deposit Accounts – Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had levied penal charges for non-maintenance of minimum balance in savings bank account, without notifying the customers by SMS / email / letter, etc.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/267

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹50,000/- (Rupees Fifty Thousand only) on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Placement of Deposits with Other Banks by Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had breached prudential inter-bank (gross) exposure limit.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/266

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹7.50 lakh (Rupees Seven Lakh Fifty Thousand only) on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Income Recognition, Asset Classification, Provisioning and Other Related Matters – UCBs’, ‘Co-operative Banks- Interest Rates on Deposits’, and specific directions issued by RBI under ‘Supervisory Action Framework (SAF)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had:

    1. regularised Non-Performing Accounts (NPAs) without repayment through genuine sources;

    2. opened certain savings deposit accounts in the name of ineligible entities; and

    3. offered higher interest rates on deposits than those offered by the State Bank of India, in non-adherence to directions under SAF.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/265

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI China: CICG leads delegation to Foire de Paris 2025

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

    At the 119th Foire de Paris that kicked off on April 30, China International Communications Group (CICG) organized the 2025 “Souffle d’Orient” Chinese culture theme exhibition and a series of cultural exchange activities to showcase everything new and trendy in Chinese society and culture and foster people-to-people and cultural exchange.

    The Chinese culture theme exhibition is inaugurated at the 119th Foire de Paris on April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Yu Tao, vice president of CICG; Irina Bokova, former director-general of UNESCO; Yang Xinyu, ambassador and permanent delegate of the People’s Republic of China to UNESCO; Carine Préterre, executive vice director of the Comexposium Group; Liang Ke, deputy secretary of the CPC Working Committee of the Administration of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone; Catherine Ruggeeri, chief supervisor of Cultural Industries, French Ministry of Culture; and Vincent Montagne, president of the Paris Book Festival, attended the opening ceremony and delivered speeches. Over 100 representatives from the cultural, art, publishing, and business communities of China and France participated in the event.

    Yu Tao, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Yu said that exchange and mutual learning between the Chinese and European civilizations will not only solidify the public foundation for bilateral relations, but also serve as a global model, injecting stability into a turbulent world. Looking ahead, he emphasized the importance of promoting exchanges in education, science and technology, and culture, so that the seeds of peace can take root in people’s hearts around the world, enabling them to work together toward a brighter future for a community with a shared future for mankind, Yu said.

    Irina Bokova, former director-general of UNESCO, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Bokova said that both Chinese and European cultures are significant global forces with profound historical legacies. She said China’s participation in the Foire de Paris exemplifies that national rejuvenation begins with its cultural revival and awakening. Today, China places great emphasis on culture, which has become the bedrock and source of social harmony and innovative development in Chinese society. Dialogue between Chinese and French civilizations can bring positive energy to the progress of human civilization, Bokova said.

    Yang Xinyu, ambassador and permanent delegate of the People’s Republic of China to UNESCO, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Yang stated that culture is the soul of people and a bridge for interpersonal connections. UNESCO’s mission is to promote cultural diversity, and China has always attached great importance to cultural openness and inclusivity, Yang said. China’s participation in the Foire de Paris enables people to share their respective cultures and provides an excellent opportunity to promote mutual learning among different civilizations. This exhibition is not only a window showcasing China’s global cultural outreach but also an open invitation from China to people from across the world, Yang said.

    Carine Préterre, executive vice director of the Comexposium Group, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Préterre said that the Foire de Paris is the largest fair in France and across Europe. Since its inception in 1904, it has been dedicated to introducing cultures and innovations from around the world to the French public. She said her organization’s fruitful cooperation with CICG at the Foire de Paris embodies the friendship between China and France. She said she looks forward to the Chinese Culture Theme Exhibition introducing the charm of Chinese culture to French visitors.

    Liang Ke, deputy secretary of the CPC Working Committee of the Administration of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Liang said that Shenzhen, positioned at the forefront of China’s reform and opening-up, stands as a vibrant, innovative, and captivating international metropolis. She said that, at the Foire de Paris, the city is delighted to promote two cultural tourism projects: the Shenzhen Qianhai Huafa Snow World, the world’s largest indoor ski resort, and the Bay Area Store of Shenzhen Book City, China’s largest cultural complex dedicated to books. Qianhai, with its openness and innovation, is reaching out to the world. She said that friends from all sectors are cordially invited to experience Qianhai’s appeal and seize the opportunities for shared development.

    Catherine Ruggeeri, chief supervisor of Cultural Industries, French Ministry of Culture, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Ruggeeri said that this year marks the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations. Amidst a volatile and ever-changing international landscape, cultural dialogue is of paramount importance in nurturing EU-China relations. Both sides should remain committed to strengthening people-to-people exchanges and the development of cultural and creative industries through pragmatic cooperation platforms like the Foire de Paris, so as to inject new cultural vitality into the friendship between China and France, Ruggeeri said.

    Vincent Montagne, president of the Paris Book Festival, delivers a speech. [Photo/CICG]

    Montagne said that while the internet and modern technology have posed significant challenges to books, the number of new books published over the past two decades has surpassed the entire volume of publications before that period, with a historic number of manuscripts submitted by young authors. “Light still resides within books,” he said. Montagne said he looks forward to in-depth collaboration with Chinese publishing houses to jointly drive the prosperity and development of the book market.

    The exhibition features seven themed zones: Themed Books, Cultural and Creative Products from the National Museum of China, Panda Culture, Hehe Culture, Central Plains Culture, Sanjin Culture, and Science and Technology Innovation Culture. Approximately 2,000 exhibits are on display, spanning five categories: books, cultural and creative products, artworks, porcelain and ceramics, and sci-tech innovations. 

    Notable exhibits include the multilingual series of “Keywords to Understand China,” “Xingbao the Giant Panda,” “Nezha Conquers the Dragon King,” and “Hanshan’s Poems” among the books; panda-themed merchandise, Taizhou Embroidery apparel from Zhejiang province, mulberry silk embroidery, Jinqing straw-woven products, Shanxi iron teapots, Yigenteng table screens, and the intangible cultural heritage Ni Gugu (clay sculpture) among cultural and creative products; Linhai paper-cuttings, mortise and tenon structural components, crystal-carved plates featuring the “Two Hehe Sages,” glass artworks of “Hanshan and Shide,” and traditional costumes from the “Blue Rhythm and Brocade Memories” collection among artworks; and AI translation devices and AI photo frames among sci-tech innovations.

    Cultural performance is staged at the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    During the exhibition, various themed promotional events were hosted, such as the Shenzhen Theme Day and the Henan Theme Day, featuring intangible cultural heritage performances and cultural shows. These events attracted nearly 10,000 visitors and garnered enthusiastic responses.

    On the opening day, Steven Abajoli, chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Foire de Paris, presented the Honorary Contribution Award to CICG. He commended CICG for meticulously crafting an exquisite exhibition pavilion, presenting a diverse array of cultural products, and organizing creative cultural performances, all of which brought the distinctive appeal of Chinese culture to the Foire de Paris and the French public. This marked the third consecutive year that CICG has received this accolade.

    China Pavilion. [Photo/CICG]

    Founded in 1904, the Foire de Paris is one of the world’s oldest, largest, and most prestigious comprehensive exhibitions. After three years of dedicated efforts, the “Souffle d’Orient” Chinese culture theme exhibition, organized and curated by CICG, has emerged as a highlight at the Foire de Paris, garnering positive public acclaim.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Apollo Funds to Acquire Hav Energy from HitecVision

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and STAVANGER, Norway, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo (NYSE: APO) and HitecVision, a leading investor in the European energy industry, today announced that Apollo-managed funds (the “Apollo Funds”) have agreed to acquire maritime liquefied natural gas carrier (“LNGC”) infrastructure platform Hav Energy LNG Holding AS (“Hav Energy”) from HitecVision. Financial terms were not disclosed.

    Established by HitecVision in 2022, Hav Energy invests in LNGC infrastructure projects in partnership with Knutsen LNG, a large owner-operator of LNGCs globally, and jointly owns a portfolio of 10 newbuild LNGCs which are 100% contracted on long-term charters with investment grade counterparties. The portfolio includes two modern operating vessels and eight under construction at the Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard in Korea due to be delivered in 2025 and 2026.

    Global LNG imports are forecast to reach over 600 million metric tons annually by 2040, driven by growth in Asia and Europe as well as efforts to cut emissions in heavy industries and transportation, and expectations for robust new liquification capacity coupled with limited newbuild LNG vessel supply also provide strong tailwinds supporting Hav Energy’s future growth trajectory.

    Apollo Partner Joseph Romeo said, “Hav Energy has quickly scaled into a top platform facilitating the global transport of LNG, which we view as a bridge fuel capable of reducing emissions for rapidly growing power demand. We are excited to work with the Hav Energy team and their aligned, well-regarded partners in Knutsen to accelerate growth of the platform, which we believe can serve as a vital infrastructure link supporting enhanced energy resiliency for customers around the world.”

    Hav Energy CEO Randi Vestbø said, “This transaction represents a critical juncture for Hav Energy as we continue to build a next-generation fleet of LNG infrastructure carriers and pursue attractive growth opportunities to expand our capabilities alongside our new partners at Apollo. We are grateful for the guidance, backing and strategic support from HitecVision, which has been instrumental in our development and positions us for our next phase of growth as industry tailwinds continue to drive long-term LNG demand globally.”

    HitecVision Senior Partner Jan H. Solstad said, “We are proud that we in partnership with Knutsen LNG and the Hav management team have been able to develop Hav LNG into a differentiated, highly scalable platform, leveraging HitecVision’s significant expertise in building companies within the energy space. With a leading management team, strong institutional partners and clear strategy, we believe Hav Energy is well positioned for future success.”

    Thommessen, Stephenson Harwood LLP and Vinson & Elkins LLP served as legal counsel to the Apollo Funds. HitecVision has been advised by DNB Markets and law firm BAHR.

    About Apollo

    Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of March 31, 2025, Apollo had approximately $785 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

    About Hav Energy

    Hav Energy is a Norway-based energy infrastructure company established by HitecVision in 2022. The current asset portfolio has 10 state-of-the-art newbuild LNG vessels co-owned and operated by Knutsen LNG. 

    About HitecVision

    HitecVision is a Norwegian private equity firm and a leading provider of institutional capital to Europe’s energy industry. For almost four decades, we have been investing in the energy sector, starting out in the oil and gas industry before turning to the current focus on decarbonisation and energy transition. We have about EUR 9 billion in assets under management, and is headquartered in Stavanger, with offices and investment professionals in Oslo, London and Milan. Our 65-person team focuses on developing profitable and sustainable companies, working closely with our management teams and boards.

    Contacts

    For Apollo:

    Noah Gunn
    Global Head of Investor Relations
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    212-822-0540
    IR@apollo.com.

    Joanna Rose
    Global Head of Corporate Communications
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    212-822-0491
    Communications@apollo.com.

    For HitecVision:

    Birgitte Kolstad
    Director Investor Relations
    Birgitte.Kolstad@hitecvision.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Scality expands distribution with Ingram Micro in ANZ and the South Pacific region

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Scality, a global leader in cyber-resilient storage software for the AI era, announced today the expansion of its distribution network with Ingram Micro in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific region. The growth builds on Scality’s North American relationship with Ingram Micro, giving more organizations in ANZ and the South Pacific region access to Scality’s industry-leading ARTESCA and RING object storage software through the region’s largest IT distributor.

    The collaboration equips local businesses and enterprise organizations with sovereign, scalable, and cyber-resilient storage to defend against modern ransomware threats while supporting the increasing demands of AI-powered workloads. Ingram Micro’s established network of partners ensures seamless delivery and expert support for Scality’s solutions to enterprise and government customers across the region.

    “The growing threat of ransomware and the acceleration of AI have made secure, high-performance storage a top priority for enterprises in our region,” said Brett Lobwein, country manager for Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific at Scality. “Expanding our reach with Ingram Micro allows us to meet demand through trusted local channels that provide the expertise and support needed for organizations to protect their data and modernize their IT infrastructure.”

    The expanded relationship is a natural progression following a year of record-breaking channel momentum for Scality. As highlighted in Scality’s recent partner momentum announcement, 60% of sales are now driven by the VAR community.

    Meeting sovereign data requirements with cyber-resilient storage
    With governments enforcing more regulations for local, sovereign data protection and cybersecurity readiness, Scality’s solutions help organizations meet stringent compliance requirements. ARTESCA and RING provide immutable, scalable, and cost-effective storage that ensures data remains secure and accessible—even in the face of ransomware attacks.

    “Scality strengthens our ability to deliver solutions that address the growing need for sovereign, cyber-resilient data protection,” said Stuart Murray, vendor business manager at Ingram Micro. “With Scality, we help customers to safeguard critical data while innovating for the next generation of AI infrastructure.”

    About Scality
    Scality solves organizations’ biggest data storage challenges — growth, security, performance, and cost. Designed for end-to-end cyber resilience, only Scality S3 object storage with CORE5 safeguards data at every level of the system, from API to architecture. Its patented MultiScale Architecture enables limitless, independent scalability in all critical dimensions to meet the unpredictable demands of modern workloads. The world’s most discerning companies depend on Scality to accelerate high-performance AI initiatives, optimize cloud deployments, and defend their data with confidence. Recognized as a leader by Gartner, Scality software is reliable, secure, and sustainable. Follow us on LinkedIn. Visit www.scality.com and our blog.

    Media Contact:
    Jon Lavietes
    A3 Communications
    +1 415-572-4408
    jon.lavietes@a3communications.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3aef05d1-c540-40ef-8955-953123d4362c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How did sport become so popular? The ancient history of a modern obsession

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Konstantine Panegyres, Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History, The University of Western Australia

    Roman mosaics discovered in Sicily show women playing different sports. David Pineda Svenske/Shutterstock

    It’s almost impossible to go a day without seeing or hearing about sport.

    Walk around any city or town and you will almost always catch a glimpse of people playing sports in teams or participating solo.

    Turn on the TV or radio and you’ll be able to find some kind of sport being played at international or national level.

    Why do people love sport so much?

    To answer this question, it’s worth a dive back into ancient history.

    An ancient person’s perspective

    One of the most famous figures from the ancient world, Saint Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD), once wrote that when he was a boy he was obsessed with playing sports:

    I liked to play ball as a boy and my playing slowed my progress in learning to read and write.

    The earliest portrait of Saint Augustine in a 6th century fresco, Lateran, Rome.
    Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    In fact, Saint Augustine was so preoccupied with playing ball that his teacher was said to sometimes beat him for it. His teacher said it was bad to waste one’s youth on such things – it’s better to study hard.

    Why was Saint Augustine obsessed with ball games? He loved to win:

    I loved to play games […] in these games I was overmastered by my vain desire to excel, so I used to strive to win, even by cheating.

    Plenty of people today probably share Saint Augustine’s view that winning is one of the things that make sport enjoyable.

    Of course, there are many other reasons why people might like to play sport.

    What sports did they play?

    If you walked down a city street in ancient Greek and Roman times, it’s likely you’d come across children or even adults playing a ball game.

    Handball games played in ancient Greece.
    Gardiner, E. Norman/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    The Roman playwright Plautus (3rd/2nd century BC) even has one of his characters complain about people “who play ball in the street”.

    Ball games were probably the most popular sporting activity in the ancient world and could be played in many different ways.

    In one ball game, called episkyros, two teams competed against each other. If one team got the ball over the line behind the other team, they scored. Feet and hands could be used and tackles were permitted.

    Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

    Of course, many other sports were also popular: athletics, swimming, wrestling, lifting weights and boxing were all favourites.

    Ancient ideas about the origins of sports

    For the ancient Greeks, the earliest mention of a ball game appears in the Odyssey, an epic poem composed by the poet Homer in probably the eighth or seventh century BC.

    In the Odyssey, Nausicaa, daughter of the King of the Phaeacians, plays a ball game with some other girls on the beach. While they throw the ball, they sing songs:

    Then when they had had their joy of food, she and her handmaids, they threw off their headgear and fell to playing at ball, and white-armed Nausicaa was leader in the song.

    During the game, Nausicaa throws the ball too far. Her maid can’t catch it and the ball flies into the sea. All the girls shout out when it goes flying.

    Already in the 3rd century BC, Nausicaa was sometimes regarded as the inventor of ball games. However, other people attributed the invention of ball games to different regions of Greece, saying the games were invented by the Sicyonians or Spartans.

    But it is unlikely any Greeks were the original inventors of ball games.

    In Egypt, thousands of years before Homer’s epics, there are already artistic depictions of ball games.

    For example, in the tomb of the Nomarch of the 11th Dynasty (c. 2150-2000 BC), Baqet III, there is artwork showing women playing ball games and men wrestling each other.

    Ancient ball games.
    J. Murray/Picryl, CC BY

    Baqet III, whose tomb contained these artistic depictions of various sports, was likely a true sports lover.

    Why did people like sports?

    People liked ball games for many different reasons.

    One was for the sheer fun and excitement. Another was because they were considered a healthy type of exercise.

    Ancient Greek and Roman doctors even told their patients to play ball games to become healthier.

    For example, the famous ancient Greek physician Galen (129-216 AD) wrote an essay titled On Exercise with a Small Ball.

    He argued “exercises with a small ball are superior to other kinds of exercises”.

    He claimed ball games were especially healthy because they moved all of the muscles and because teamwork was good for the soul.

    People in the ancient world also thought just watching sport could be something worth doing.

    The writer Lucian of Samosata (born 120 AD), for instance, said watching athletes competing for glory could help to encourage men to achieve similar feats: “many of the spectators go away in love with manfulness and hard work”, wrote Lucian.

    So it seems there’s nothing new about our modern love of playing and watching sports, and this obsession will probably continue for thousands of years into the future.

    Konstantine Panegyres 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. How did sport become so popular? The ancient history of a modern obsession – https://theconversation.com/how-did-sport-become-so-popular-the-ancient-history-of-a-modern-obsession-254057

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Diagnosed incident cases of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma to reach nearly 230,000 in 2033 across 7MM, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Diagnosed incident cases of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma to reach nearly 230,000 in 2033 across 7MM, says GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    The diagnosed incident cases of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (B-cell NHL) in the seven major markets (7MM*) are projected to increase from 200,844 in 2023 to 229,804 in 2033, with an annual growth rate (AGR) of 1.44%, while five-year diagnosed prevalent cases will increase from almost 634,000 to over 714,000 at an AGR of 1.26%, forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report “B-Cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Epidemiology Forecast to 2033,” estimates that in 2033, the US will have the highest number of diagnosed incident cases of B-cell NHL across the 7MM with over 106,600 cases, whereas Spain will have the lowest number with approximately 9,500 cases. Similarly, the US is projected to have the highest number of five-year diagnosed prevalent cases at almost 356,600 compared to Spain with lowest number of cases at nearly 28,000.

    Zachary Natale, MPH, Senior Epidemiologist at GlobalData, says: “Despite the progress that has been made, B-cell NHL remains a complex spectrum of malignant neoplasms, each of which exhibits idiosyncratic clinical manifestations and behaviors.”

    Though early detection and improved therapeutics have improved the prognosis for countless B-cell NHL patients, its wide-ranging clinical courses on account of subtype-specific disease behaviors and treatments makes B-cell NHL a challenging cancer to manage, especially among less prominent subtypes such mantle cell lymphoma.

    Natale concludes: “Due to its heterogenous impact on the clinical course of patients, it is imperative for healthcare workers, public health professionals, and researchers to develop a more nuanced understanding of B-cell NHL’s subtypes to best address them as respective diseases.”

    *7MM: The US, 5EU (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK) and Japan.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Australia card acquiring market to hit $700 billion in 2025 as growth set to slow amid global uncertainty, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Australia card acquiring market to hit $700 billion in 2025 as growth set to slow amid global uncertainty, says GlobalData

    Posted in Banking

    The Australian card acquiring market is projected to grow by 5.5% to reach AUD1.1 trillion ($713.4 billion) in 2025. Despite this growth, global economic uncertainty linked to recent US tariffs may weigh on momentum, slowing the pace of expansion compared to previous years of stronger performance driven by cashless trends and consumer spending, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s Merchant Acquiring Analytics reveals that the card acquiring value in Australia registered a growth of 7.5% in 2024, driven by the rise in consumer spending and increasing consumer preference for cashless transactions. However, the current global uncertainty because of latest US tariffs can pose a challenge for the Australia’s overall economic growth, which is expected to impact even payment industry resulting a slower growth in card acquiring value in 2025.

    Asha Lalitha, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Domestic transactions with Australian-issued cards dominate the acquiring space in the country, accounting for over 97% of the total value of acquiring transactions. Well-established card acceptance infrastructure, nearly-100% banking population, and the burgeoning e-commerce market are all contributing to this.”

    The number of POS terminals per one million inhabitants in Australia rose from 36,012 in 2020 to 40,055 in 2025. In addition to the traditional POS terminals, companies are offering POS solutions designed to target SMEs. For instance, Fiserv launched “Clover” POS solution in March 2025, especially targeting SMEs operating in the hospitality, service, and retail sectors.

    Debit cards accounted for 59% of the total domestic card acquiring value in 2024. Credit and charge cards, on the other hand, accounted for 75.3% share in the total foreign card acquiring value, supported by high usage of foreign issued credit and charge cards for purchases of goods and services in Australia both online and in-person.

    Traditional banks such as Commonwealth Bank (CommBank), Westpac, and National Australian Bank held significant share in Australia’s card acquiring space, accounting for around 60% of total acquiring value in 2024. CommBank is the leading operator in the Australian merchant acquiring market. The bank offers a wide range of POS terminals, including mobile POS terminals. In May 2023, CommBank rolled out the Smart Mini reader for small businesses, enabling them to accept all types of card payments. The terminals are equipped with features such as surcharging, tipping, and digital receipts.

    In addition to banks, non-bank financial institutions such as Tyro, Worldline, and Fiserv also have a presence in the acquiring space in the country.

    Asha concludes: “The Australian card acquiring market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5%, reaching AUD1.3 trillion ($866.7 billion) by 2029. This growth is supported by strong consumer awareness of digital payments, wider merchant acceptance, and a rising preference for contactless and e-commerce transactions.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: JACET Charges – Nightcliff

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (JACET) has arrested and charged a 69-year-old male for possession of child abuse material.

    On Friday 2 May 2025, detectives from the JACET conducted a lawful search of a residence in Nightcliff. 

    During the search police seized items including two computers, multiple USB thumb drives and a mobile phone after locating child abuse material at the residence.

    The 69-year-old male has been charged with Possess or control child abuse material, Access child abuse material and Fail to comply with reporting obligations.

    He has been remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court on 6 May 2025.

    For online safety tips you can visit the eSafety Commissioner website for more information at https://www.esafety.gov.au/.

    Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://crimestoppers.com.au/.

    You can also make a report online by alerting the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation via the ‘Report Abuse’ button at www.accce.gov.au/report.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements summarises visitor arrivals to Hong Kong during Labour Day Golden Week of Mainland

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements, led by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, today (May 6) announced that the overall number of visitors to Hong Kong reached around 1.1 million following the conclusion of the five-day Labour Day Golden Week of the Mainland (May 1 to 5) yesterday (May 5), representing an increase of 22 per cent over the same period last year. All aspects of receiving visitors operated smoothly.

         Mr Chan said, “During this year’s Labour Day Golden Week, a variety of festive events were organised across Hong Kong. Apart from the festival-themed drone show over Victoria Harbour on May 1, there were also the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, the Buddha Bathing Ceremony at the Po Lin Monastery, the Buddha’s Birthday Carnival at Victoria Park, and a series of activities in Shau Kei Wan in celebration of the Tam Kung Festival, among others. These distinctive cultural experiences were well received, fostering a vibrant atmosphere and showcasing Hong Kong’s unique cultural charms, enabling both visitors and the general public to immerse themselves in Hong Kong’s authentic culture.”

    Visitor flow, situation of control points, and traffic and public transport arrangements 

         During the Labour Day Golden Week, the Immigration Department recorded a total of around 1.1 million inbound visitors to Hong Kong through various sea, land and air control points. Among them, Mainland visitors accounted for about 920 000, representing a year-on-year increase of about 20 per cent and around 84 per cent of the total arrivals; and the number of non-Mainland visitors was around 180 000, representing a year-on-year increase of about 31 per cent.

         The arrival of Mainland visitors peaked on May 2 with around 270 000 Mainland visitors arriving in Hong Kong. During the Golden Week, the Express Rail Link West Kowloon Control Point received the highest number of Mainland visitors, followed by the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point. The overall operation of the control points and transport services ran smoothly.

         Throughout the Labour Day Golden Week, the Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre of the Transport Department (TD) operated 24 hours a day to closely monitor the traffic conditions and public transport services in all districts, boundary control points, major stations and tourist spots across Hong Kong, and took prompt measures to address service demands.

         For cross-boundary traffic, the TD steered public transport operators to enhance their service capacity with a view to meeting the cross-boundary passenger demand. Regarding local public transport services, the TD co-ordinated with various public transport operators proactively to enhance their capacity, reserve sufficient vehicles and manpower to meet the travel needs of visitors, and deploy additional staff to maintain passenger order. The overall traffic conditions were mostly smooth during the festive period.

    Mega events

         The drone shows held at the Wan Chai Harbourfront and Gold Coast attracted a large number of locals and tourists. The raceday on May 4 and the Cheung Chau Bun Festival held yesterday also attracted numerous visitors to experience the unique atmosphere of horse racing tourism and the traditional festival of Hong Kong.

    Major tourist attractions, inbound tour groups and hotel occupancy rate

        Visitors to Hong Kong during the Labour Day Golden Week were spread across different tourist attractions in the city. The overall hotel occupancy rate reached 90 per cent in general. High visitor flow and good order were observed at major tourist attractions including theme parks, the Peak, Ngong Ping, temples, etc. Visitors were also found at outlying islands and hiking trails. Local areas like Old Town Central, Yau Ma Tei and Kennedy Town emerged as popular urban walking routes.

         In terms of Mainland inbound tour groups, over 900 Mainland inbound tour groups brought nearly 33 000 visitors to Hong Kong during the Golden Week, with around 70 per cent engaged in overnight itineraries. The number of tour groups significantly exceeded the record of the same period last year by 60% and surpassed pre-pandemic levels. 

         “During the Labour Day Golden Week, the city was vibrant and bustling, with many people in the retail and catering sector indicating that they saw growth in their businesses compared to last year. The smooth operation of various hospitality arrangements was attributable to the collaboration of relevant government departments, organisations and industries in making comprehensive preparations and responses, as well as the co-operation of the public and tourists. The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau will follow up with relevant departments and the trade to review the experiences from the Labour Day Golden Week and optimise various aspects. These include enhancing the telecommunication network capacity at high-traffic points, strengthening information dissemination and improving amenities for tourists under the new travel patterns, so as to continue to provide quality travel experiences for tourists visiting Hong Kong in the future,” said Mr Chan.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Land Registry releases statistics for April

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Land Registry releases statistics for April——————————–
    *   The number of searches of land registers made by the public in April was 368 426 (-6.3 per cent compared with March 2025 and -5.9 per cent compared with April 2024)Issued at HKT 15:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCSD launches first Hong Kong ICH Month in June (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹In the 2024 Policy Address, the Chief Executive proposed organising Hong Kong ICH Month to promote the safeguarding and passing on of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). In support of the annual Cultural and Natural Heritage Day on the second Saturday of June designated by the country, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Office (ICHO) of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will launch the first Hong Kong ICH Month in June with the theme of ICH Around Town, presenting a series of rich and diversified activities involving over 80 ICH performances, 60 interactive experiential booths and 20 ICH Highlight Tours to give the public and tourists greater insight into the ICH of Hong Kong and the Mainland, and enable them to experience the cultural richness of ICH and the pleasure it brings.

         â€‹Activities throughout the month will cover over 100 ICH items and bring together over 50 ICH practitioners, including representative bearers of national ICH. This annual ICH month is expected to attract over 100 000 participants.
     
         â€‹Among the fascinating activities to be held during Hong Kong ICH Month 2025, the free ICH Highlight Tours will bring the public and tourists to six selected districts, namely Yau Tsim Mong, Tsuen Wan, Tai Po, Sha Tin, Eastern and the Islands, and explore special ICH of the communities. Registration will open on May 16 and details will be announced later. Information maps and guides of the ICH Highlight Tours as well as videos will be rolled out at the end of May to help the public and tourists learn more about the relevant ICH items in these districts.

         â€‹Carnivals or fun days will be held in various districts across Hong Kong on several weekends and Sundays in June, which will be suitable for all ages. Under the theme of ICH festive events across Hong Kong, the Hong Kong ICH Month 2025 Opening Ceremony cum ICH Carnival to be held on May 31 and June 1 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, and will have performances including Hakka unicorn dance in Hang Hau in Sai Kung, floating colours parade in Cheung Chau, Engor, Cantonese opera excerpts and dragon/lion dance. There will also be interactive booths showcasing Yip Man Wing Chun; rowing of dragon boat on land, which is a part of Hoi Luk Fung/Hoklo traditional wedding ceremonies (dragon boat dance); and unicorn dance, etc.
     
         â€‹The ICH Infinity∞ Fun Day at the Hong Kong ICH Centre in Sam Tung Uk Museum in Tsuen Wan, scheduled for June 14 and 15, will present an ICH fashion show and Nanyin performances with a fusion of tradition and innovation. Interactive booths featuring blown sugar and face threading techniques will also be available.
     
         â€‹The Vibrant ICH will be held at the New Town Plaza and Sha Tin Town Hall on June 22. Under the theme of “ICH Encounter: Hong Kong X Jiangxi”, in addition to performances and booths featuring Hong Kong ICH items including the Pok Fu Lam fire dragon dance, puppetry and the Chinese brush making technique, there will also be performances of the representative items of the national ICH such as Gannan traditional tea plucking opera and Xingguo mountain song.

         â€‹The ICH Flavours Carnival to be held at Oil Street Art Space on June 28 and 29 will feature the food culture of ICH. Participants can experience the making techniques of Jiangxi Gannan Hakka pounded tea, shrimp paste blocks and shrimp paste, sweet potato cake and rice dumpling with lye at the workshops and booths.
     
         â€‹Another highlight is the “Genesis and Spirit – Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition on Jiangxi’s Ganzhou Hakka Culture” (tentative title) at the Hong Kong Central Library, which runs from June 14 to July 1. The exhibition will introduce representative Hakka-related ICH items of Ganzhou in Jiangxi, together with around 40 other representative ICH items from the province. During the exhibition period, there will be over 40 performances, demonstrations, interactive experiential activities, talks, etc.
     
         â€‹The LCSD will collaborate with the cultural promotion organisation ICH June to hold a seminar on the theme of “Safeguarding and Developing ICH at the Same Time” at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum on June 14. Scholars and ICH bearers from the Guangdong-Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) will be invited to participate and explore the transmission and development of ICH in the GBA from an academic perspective. A “public unconference” will also take place on the same day to engage secondary school students, tertiary students, youth culture groups, and members of the public in discussions on ICH-related issues.
     
         â€‹Hong Kong ICH Month 2025 is presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the ICHO of the LCSD, with ICH June as a strategic partner. For details, please visit the website www.icho.hk/en/web/icho/hk_ich_month_2025.html.
     
         â€‹For programme details of strategic and other partners, please visit the following websites and social media:

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Auctions of vehicle registration marks to be held on May 24 and 25

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Transport Department (TD) today (May 6) announced that the auctions of vehicle registration marks will be held on May 24 (Saturday) and 25 (Sunday) at Meeting Room S221, L2, Old Wing, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai.
     
         “A total of 200 traditional vehicle registration marks (TVRMs) will be put up for public auction in the morning session, and 120 personalised vehicle registration marks (PVRMs) will be put up for auction in the afternoon session at each auction. The lists of marks have been uploaded to the department’s website, www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/index.html(ii) the identity document of the purchaser if it is different from the successful bidder;
    (iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation if the purchaser is a body corporate; and
    (iv) a crossed cheque payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. Any bidder who wishes to bid for both TVRMs and PVRMs on the same day, should bring along at least two crossed cheques for payment of auction prices (for an auctioned mark paid for by cheque, the first three working days after the date of auction will be required for cheque clearance confirmation before processing of the application for mark assignment can be completed). Successful bidders may also pay through the Easy Pay System (EPS), but are reminded to note the maximum transfer amount in the same day of the payment card. Payment by post-dated cheque, cash, credit card or other methods will not be accepted.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NMCG Approves Key Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation via ecosystem restoration in 62nd Executive Committee Meeting

    Source: Government of India

    NMCG Approves Key Projects for Ganga Rejuvenation via ecosystem restoration in 62nd Executive Committee Meeting

    The meeting chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General, NMCG, focuses on sustainability in river rejuvenation

    Namami Gange program has been recognised as one of the Top Ten, World Restoration Flagship initiatives by UN Decade (UNEP&FAO)

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 3:48PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant push towards holistic river and environmental rejuvenation, the 62nd Executive Committee (EC) Meeting of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), chaired by Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director-General, NMCG, focused on sustainability in river rejuvenation. Conservation of critical wetlands and promoting the reuse of treated wastewater through city specific reuse plans and were deliberated in the meeting. The Committee approved projects that align with the mission’s objectives of ecosystem restoration across the Ganga basin. It may be noted that Namami Gange program has been recognised as one of the Top TEN, World Restoration Flagship initiatives by UN Decade (UNEP&FAO)

    In another important development, the EC gave the green light to the “Conserving and Sustainably Managing NathmalpurBhagad (Wetland) in Bhojpur District, Bihar” project, with an estimated cost of ₹3.51 crore. The project is the fifth wetland being undertaken under NGP. It aims to establish an effective management arrangement for NathmalpurBhagad. So far, under Namami Gange conservation of 4 wetlands have been already sanctioned at:

    1. KalewadaJheel, Muzaffarnagar, UP
    2. Namiya Dah Jheel,Prayagraj, UP
    3. Reoti Dah Wetland, Ballia, UP
    4. Udhwa Lake (Ramsar Site) Sahibganj, Jharkhand

    It focuses on integrating biodiversity and ecosystem service values into river basin conservation and developmental planning. The project proposes a dual approach with interventions at the sub-basin (Ghaghara, Gomti & Sone confluence) and site levels (NathmalpurBhagad), including activities such as wetland delineation, hydrological regime enhancement, species and habitat conservation, ecological assessment, risk evaluation, capacity building, communication and outreach, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the wetland ecosystem.

    Nathmalpur Wetland

     

    The EC also approved funding of ₹34.50 lakh for the “Capacity Building Initiatives for making water-sensitive cities in the Ganga Basin” project for the preparation of City Plans and training on the reuse of treated wastewater for Agra and Prayagraj Districts in Uttar Pradesh. The project aims at preparation of city level reuse plan aligned to the National Framework for Safe Reuse of Treated Water (SRTW) developed by NMCG.

     

    Nathmalpur Wetland

    These project approvals reaffirm NMCG’s commitment to integrated water management and environmental restoration. As the Mission continues to evolve, such strategic decisions will play a pivotal role in achieving the vision of a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable river ecosystem for future generations.

    The meeting was attended by Sh. Mahabir Prasad, Joint Secretary and Financial Advisor of Ministry of Power, (additional charge) River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti; Sh. Nalin Srivastava, Deputy Director General of NMCG; Sh. Anoop Kumar Srivastava, Executive Director (Technical); Sh. Brijendra Swaroop, Executive Director (Projects) Sh. S.P. Vashistha, Executive Director (Administration); Sh. Bhaskar Dasgupta, Executive Director (Finance); Sh. Prabhash Kumar, Additional Project Director of Uttar Pradesh SMCG and Sh. S. Chandrasekhar, I.F.S., Chief Conservator of Forest -cum- State Nodal Officer, Environment & Climate Change, Bihar.

    ***

    Dhanya Sanal K

    (Release ID: 2127245) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Labour Department to hold seminar on Minimum Wage Ordinance

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Labour Department to hold seminar on Minimum Wage Ordinance 
    The main provisions of the Minimum Wage Ordinance, including the new Statutory Minimum Wage rate of $42.1 per hour effective from May 1, and good human resource management practices will be introduced in the seminar. Employers, employees and human resource practitioners are welcome to attend.
     
    The seminar will be conducted in Cantonese, and admission is free. Seats will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and the enrolment deadline is June 5. The enrolment form can be downloaded from the Labour Department’s website (www.labour.gov.hk/eng/news/MWOseminar2025.htmIssued at HKT 14:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Labour Department investigates fatal work accident in Fanling

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Labour Department (LD) is investigating a fatal work accident that happened in Fanling this afternoon (May 6) in which a man died.

         The LD immediately deployed staff to the scene upon receiving a report of the accident, and is now conducting an investigation to look into its cause.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Institute of Foreign Trade receives approval to establish off-campus centre at GIFT City, Gujarat

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Institute of Foreign Trade receives approval to establish off-campus centre at GIFT City, Gujarat

    Move aligns with NEP 2020; will offer flagship MBA (International Business) and promote trade research

    IIFT GIFT City centre to strengthen India’s trade education ecosystem and support export-led growth

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 10:37AM by PIB Delhi

    The Ministry of Education, Government of India, has approved the establishment of an off-campus centre of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi, at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The centre will be set up in accordance with the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023.

    The approval under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, comes after IIFT’s successful compliance with the conditions laid out in the Letter of Intent (LoI) issued in January 2025. These included submission of a development roadmap to establish a multidisciplinary institution with over 1,000 students, availability of qualified faculty, detailed academic programmes, plans for a permanent campus, and creation of a state-of-the-art library.

    Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, congratulated IIFT on receiving the approval, stating: “Heartiest congratulations to @IIFT_Official on getting approval to open its new off-campus centre in @GIFTCity_, India’s global financial hub. This paves the way for training talent in the institute’s flagship programme, MBA (International Business), besides short-term training programmes and research in the area of International Trade.”

    The upcoming GIFT City campus will be located on the 16th and 17th floors of GIFT Tower 2. It will offer IIFT’s flagship MBA (International Business) programme, along with specialised short-term training courses and research in international trade and related fields.

    The initiative aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to promote multidisciplinary learning and expand access to high-quality education.

    Established in 1963 under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, IIFT is a premier institution dedicated to capacity building in international trade. It was declared a Deemed to be University in 2002, holds an A+ grade from NAAC, and is accredited by AACSB, making it part of a select group of globally recognised business schools.

    The GIFT City campus is expected to significantly contribute to India’s trade education ecosystem and support the nation’s aspiration of becoming a global export powerhouse.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2127199) Visitor Counter : 14

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public housing residents and applicants convicted by court for making false statements

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         A spokesman for the Housing Department (HD) (May 6) reminded public rental housing (PRH) residents and applicants to declare truthfully their income and assets.
     
         In a total of four separate prosecution cases, two public PRH residents and two PRH applicants who did not declare to the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) their ownership of domestic property/land in Hong Kong or landed property on the Mainland were convicted by the Court for making false statements knowingly or neglecting to furnish information specified in declaration forms.
     
         The information of the four cases is provided below:
     
    Case 1

         A PRH resident living in Lee On Estate in Shatin did not declare in 2024 Income and Assets Declaration Forms that he owned land/property in Hong Kong. A subsequent investigation revealed that this resident owned a portion of the ownership of six pieces of lands in North District, New Territories at the material time.
     
    Case 2

         A PRH resident living at Lung Hang Estate in Shatin did not declare in a 2024 Income and Assets Declaration Form that he owned domestic property in Hong Kong. A subsequent investigation revealed that this resident had owned a domestic property in Tuen Mun with another person under a joint tenancy at the material time. 

         The PRH residents in Cases 1 and 2 were prosecuted for neglecting to furnish information specified in the declaration forms, contrary to Section 27(a) of the Housing Ordinance. They were convicted on April 28 this year in Shatin Magistrates’ Courts. Given the gravity of the offence, the defendants were respectively sentenced to a fine of $30,000 and two months’ imprisonment (suspended for 24 months), and a fine of $15,000 and two weeks’ imprisonment (suspended for 12 months). The HD had already earlier recovered one subject PRH flat and has issued a Notice-to-Quit to another subject tenant.
     
    Case 3
     
         A PRH applicant applied for PRH in 2017. She did not declare on the form of Applicant’s Declaration submitted to the HD in 2021 her ownership of domestic property in Hong Kong during the period from her application for PRH to the date she submitted the form. A subsequent investigation revealed that she owned a domestic property in Hung Hom during the said period and she would not be eligible for PRH application.
     
    Case 4
     
         A PRH applicant applied for the PRH in 2016. She did not declare on the form of Applicant’s Declaration submitted to the HD in 2023 her ownership of landed property at the date she submitted the form. A subsequent investigation revealed that she owned a landed property in Guangdong Province when she was submitting the form. She would not be eligible for PRH application.
     
         The PRH applicants in Cases 3 and 4 were prosecuted by the HD for making a false statement in respect of their PRH applications, contrary to Section 26(1)(c) of the Housing Ordinance. They were convicted in the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts on April 28 this year. Given the gravity of the offences, the defendants were both sentenced to 14 days’ imprisonment (suspended for 24 months) and were fined $8,000 and $5,000 respectively. The relevant PRH applications have been cancelled.

         The spokesman reiterated that all households living in PRH should complete their Income and Asset Declaration Forms accurately, as doing so provides the foundation for the assessment of rent and their eligibilities for continuing residence. Before furnishing particulars specified in the requisition required by the HA, households should read the content and completion guidelines of the Income and Assets Declaration Forms carefully and compute their income and assets in accordance with the methods specified. Otherwise, they may be liable to prosecution for making a false statement, contrary to Section 26(1)(a) of the Housing Ordinance. If convicted, the maximum penalty is a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months. Or they may be liable to prosecution for refusing or neglecting to furnish information as specified in a declaration form, contrary to Section 27(a) of the Housing Ordinance. If convicted, the maximum penalty is a fine of $25,000 and imprisonment for three months. The HD will take action to recover the undercharged rent incurred due to the inaccurate information furnished by the households, or even recover their PRH units.
     
         The spokesman also reminded all PRH applicants that if any persons are convicted by the courts for making a false statement during the PRH application, contrary to Section 26(1)(c) of the Housing Ordinance, the maximum penalty is a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months. The PRH application concerned will be cancelled while any allocated PRH unit will be recovered by the HD.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government expresses gratitude to Chief Executive of Consumer Council for actively promoting and protecting consumer rights and interests

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         In response to the announcement made by the Consumer Council today (May 6) that its Chief Executive, Ms Gilly Wong Fung-han, would leave the Council upon the completion of her contract today, the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, thanked Ms Wong for her active promotion and protection of consumer rights and interests over the years.
     
         Mr Yau said, “Ms Wong has served as the Chief Executive of the Council since 2012. Under her leadership, the Council has been committed to safeguarding the rights and interests of consumers. Also, it has been keeping pace with the times, including stepping up publicity and education to protect consumer rights and interests in response to the growing popularity of online shopping, as well as assisting elderly consumers to strengthen their self-protection capabilities. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Ms Wong for her contributions and wish her the best in her future endeavours in various fields.”
     
         The Council is conducting a recruitment exercise for the post of Chief Executive, and will announce the selection result and appointment arrangement in due course.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Caritas Medical Centre announces root cause analysis report of previous sentinel event

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
     
    The spokesperson for Caritas Medical Centre (CMC) today (May 6) announces the root cause analysis report of a previous sentinel event:
     
         A 75-year-old male non-communicative patient with a history of hypertension and Alzheimer’s disease was admitted to CMC for abdominal pain and constipation on February 28. According to hospital records, the patient started a puree diet instead of a minced diet in February.
     
         The patient was restricted from eating and drinking until March 2, when a fluid diet was resumed as his condition improved. On March 3, a doctor ordered DAT (abbreviation of the term “diet as tolerated”), intending to resume the patient’s usual diet, while the term concerned was interpreted as a regular diet by a nurse. The patient choked while being fed a regular diet and passed away during the afternoon on the same day despite resuscitation efforts.
     
         CMC announced the incident afterward and a Root Cause Analysis Panel was formed to analyse the incident. After reviewing the case, the Panel concluded that the root cause of the incident was the varied interpretations of the term concerned, which led to communication gaps and misaligned practices among the clinical team.
     
         The Panel considered that multiple factors were involved in this sentinel event. There was a lack of communication between medical and nursing staff regarding dietary orders. The inclusion of a DAT as a standard diet type in some electronic systems might have created the perception that the instruction referred to a specific diet type. Additionally, some nursing teaching materials equate the term with a regular diet, which could also have contributed to varied understanding in daily clinical practice.
     
         The Panel also found that DAT was not a standard option in the electronic bed panel system, but the term concerned was entered as free text, leading to varying interpretations of the patient’s dietary requirements. Moreover, there was no standardised process for patient assessment, diet selection, and documentation of diet tolerance.
     
         The Panel made the following recommendations:
     

    1. The interpretation of the term DAT should be aligned and communicated to staff;
    2. The use of DAT as a diet type option in all forms and electronic systems should be removed to eliminate ambiguity;
    3. The dietary management workflow from patient assessment to communication to meal provision should be enhanced; and
    4. The terminology for diet options in the Dietetics and Catering Order System should be standardised with the electronic bed panel system. The interface between these systems should be improved to synchronise data and minimise the risk of misinterpreting dietary orders.

     
         The Hospital Authority (HA) has aligned the definition of the term DAT. It is now explicitly defined as a flexible dietary approach tailored to the patient’s individual tolerance, preferences, and medical condition, subject to professional assessment. It does not imply any specific food texture.
     
         CMC will implement the relevant recommendations to enhance medical and nursing staff training to ensure proper understanding and implementation of the aligned definition of the term concerned in daily practice. The hospital has met with the patient’s family to explain the report’s findings, and expressed deep condolences to the family members. CMC will maintain communication with the family and provide necessary assistance.
     
         CMC has submitted the report to the HA Head Office. The hospital also expressed gratitude to the panel. Membership of the panel is as follows:
     
    Chairperson:
    Dr Lau Ka Hin
    Clinical Stream Coordinator (Medical), Hong Kong East Cluster
     
    Members:
    Professor Chair Sek Ying
    Vice-Director of Research, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong
     
    Mr Chan Man Nok
    Chief Nursing Officer, Nursing Services Department, Hospital Authority
     
    Ms Sandy Chang
    Cluster Manager (Dietetics), Kowloon Central Cluster
    (Joined on March 6)
     
    Dr Raymond Cheung
    Chief Manager (Patient Safety and Risk Management), Hospital Authority
     
    Mr Lam Yan Ki
    Department Manager (Speech Therapy), Kowloon East Cluster
     
    Dr Lau Chi Hung
    Chief of Service (Surgery), Queen Elizabeth Hospital
     
    Dr Ben Wong
    Clinical Services Coordinator (Surgery), Caritas Medical Centre

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia on his historic second term

    Source: Government of India

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia on his historic second term

    The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP)

    They agreed to remain in touch and looked forward to their next meeting

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 2:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with The Hon Anthony Albanese today and congratulated him on his historic re-election as the 32nd Prime Minister of Australia. 

    The Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) between the two countries. They noted that in its five years, the CSP has seen robust cooperation developing across a diverse range of sectors. They stressed on the role played by the vibrant Indian origin diaspora in cementing bilateral ties. 

    The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global matters of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to working together in promoting a free, open, stable, rules-based and prosperous Indo-Pacific. 

    Prime Minister invited PM Albanese to visit India including for the Annual Summit and the QUAD Summit to be hosted in India later in the year. The leaders agreed to remain in touch.

     

    ***

    MJPS/ST

    (Release ID: 2127230) Visitor Counter : 96

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates Bharat Telecom 2025; Highlights India’s Export Potential

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Inaugurates Bharat Telecom 2025; Highlights India’s Export Potential

    India Showcases Global Telecom Ambitions at Bharat Telecom 2025

    Minister Scindia: “We’re not just connecting villages; we’re connecting futures. Every tower we raise, every byte we transmit, brings 1.4 billion people closer to opportunity”

     “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bold vision and unwavering resolve have transformed India from a digital follower into a global digital leader — turning aspirations into infrastructure, and policy into progress.” Minister Scindia

    Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar:  “Today, India stands ready not merely as a market or consumer but as a creator, partner and trusted provider of world-class telecom solutions. The narrative has changed from a historical made-for-India to made-by-India.”

    More than 130 foreign delegates from over 35 countries participate

    Over 80 leading Indian Telecom and ICT companies showcased innovative products and solutions across multiple domains

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 1:41PM by PIB Delhi

    “Bharat Telecom is not just a conference — it is a declaration of India’s intent to shape the future of global connectivity through innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth.” said Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, while inaugurating Bharat Telecom 2025 in New Delhi today. He said, “When ideas, innovation, and intent come together in harmony, they create not a cacophony, but a symphony — and Bharat Telecom is that symphony of global collaboration and opportunity.”

    Organized by the Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC), in collaboration with Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Bharat Telecom 2025 plays a significant role in India’s vision to become a global hub for telecom manufacturing, services, and exports. The event was inaugurated in the presence of Dr.Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications, alongside industry leaders, foreign delegates, and innovators from across the telecom value chain. The two-day event Bharat Telecom 2025, besides providing an interactive platform for stakeholders, also showcases an Exclusive International Business Expo.

    In his inaugural remarks, Minister Scindia further highlighted India’s growing role as a telecom exporter and a hub of innovation, backed by progressive reforms and production-linked incentives. “We’re not just connecting villages; we’re connecting futures. Every tower we raise, every byte we transmit, brings 1.4 billion people closer to opportunity”, Minister Scindia asserted. He highlighted, “It is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bold vision and unwavering resolve that have transformed India from a digital follower into a global digital leader — turning aspirations into infrastructure, and policy into progress.”

    Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia highlighted “In just 22 months, we connected 99% of our villages with 5G and brought 82% of our population onto the network, deploying 470,000 towers—this is not evolution; it is a telecom revolution.” He pointed out, “This digital highway we have built across India is not merely about communication—it is the infrastructure of infrastructure, empowering 1.4 billion citizens with access to healthcare, education, governance, and economic opportunity.”

    The minister emphasized India’s extraordinary rise as a global digital powerhouse, attributing it to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He pointed out that India has not only caught up with the world in areas like 4G and 5G, but is now leading the charge, with sweeping reforms and technological innovation shaping the country’s trajectory. Shri Scindia underlined the role of India’s telecom sector as a transformative force and described the nation’s evolution from expensive, limited mobile access in the 1990s to now being the world’s second-largest telecom market and the cheapest data provider.

    Speaking at the session, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications, said, “There are moments in a nation’s journey when it not only participates in global conversations but defines their course. Today, India stands ready not merely as a market or consumer but as a creator, partner and trusted provider of world-class telecom solutions. The narrative has changed from a historical made-for-India to made-by-India.”

    Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar emphasized that India is undergoing a pivotal transformation in the global telecom arena, evolving from a consumer to a creator of technology. He highlighted that this progress was driven by the Digital India initiative launched a decade ago and supported by forward-thinking government policies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Citing initiatives like the production-linked incentive scheme, progressive spectrum management, and the Telecom Technology Development Fund, he pointed to India’s dramatic rise in domestic manufacturing, exports, and innovation. He further mentioned that India now plays a significant role in global supply chains, including producing 15% of the world’s iPhones. He concluded by outlining the country’s future focus on 6G leadership, satellite broadband expansion, and quantum communication networks to strengthen digital sovereignty.

    Mr. Arnob Roy, Chairman, TEPC, in his welcome address said, “Bharat Telecom showcases the transformative power of India’s indigenous telecom ecosystem, highlighting our unparalleled growth and innovation in the global telecom industry.” He acknowledged the Indian government’s strategic policies that have fostered innovation and manufacturing in the Telecom sector, and invited delegates to explore the innovations at the Bharat Telecom exhibition 2025.

    Bharat Telecom 2025 has been conceptualised to reinforce India’s position as a reliable and trusted telecom products manufacturing and export destination, by highlighting the country’s growing capabilities in telecom equipment, ICT services and next-generation digital technologies. Over 80 leading Indian Telecom and ICT companies showcased innovative products and solutions across multiple domains.

    The event saw enthusiastic international participation, with more than 130 foreign delegates from over 35 countries, representing government bodies, private enterprises etc. It also featured thematic exhibitions, conference sessions, high-impact B2B meetings, strategic networking sessions and knowledge-sharing forums focusing on cutting-edge communication technologies such as 5G, Optical Fibre, Broadband Infrastructure, Satellite Communication, IoT, AI-driven Networks and more.

    About TEPC:

    Established in 2009 under the Foreign Trade Policy of the Government of India, the Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC) plays a vital role in promoting and facilitating the export of telecom equipment and services. Its mandate spans the entire telecom ecosystem, including ICT hardware and software, infrastructure products, system integration, consultancy, and service provision. TEPC serves as a key platform for diverse stakeholders such as equipment manufacturers, system integrators, service providers, and other entities operating within the telecom sector.

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    Samrat

    (Release ID: 2127228) Visitor Counter : 89

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “Smart Silver” Digital Inclusion Programme for Elders well received (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    “Smart Silver” Digital Inclusion Programme for Elders well received  
         The Programme provides funding support to 12 district service organisations to set up a total of 40 community-based help desks across all 18 districts, and to provide regular and fixed-point training on digital technologies and technical support for elderly people aged 60 or above, particularly singleton or doubleton elderly people living in old districts and public housing. The implementing organisations use an easy-to-understand approach to encourage the elderly to learn how to use practical mobile applications and digital services in their daily lives. This includes using popular government mobile applications such as “iAM Smart”, eHealth, HA Go and My SmartPLAY as well as learning about cybersecurity, assisting the elderly in enhancing their ability to use digital technologies more effectively and appropriately.
     
         To further strengthen the current work on digital inclusion for elderly people, the DPO will proactively co-ordinate and consolidate the “Smart Silver” Digital Inclusion Programme for Elders along with its digital inclusion measures, such as the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Outreach Programme for the Elderly, the Enriched ICT Training Programme for the Elderly and mobile digital service stations to achieve greater synergy among various programmes. For instance, elderly people who have completed the basic training on digital technologies at the community-based help desks will be introduced to participate in the Enriched ICT Training Programme for the Elderly if they seek to deepen their digital knowledge and enhance their digital capability. They can also serve as volunteers in the activities of the ICT Outreach Programme for the Elderly to introduce the use of digital technologies to other elderly people. Coupled with the online learning modules of the Elderly IT Learning Portal, the DPO comprehensively addresses the needs of the elderly in learning digital technologies.
     
         “The DPO will continue to expand its regional collaboration network and encourage the implementing organisations of the ‘Smart Silver’ programme to bring together different sectors of the community, such as the District Services and Community Care Teams, the Senior Police Call, the innovation and technology industry and professional organisations, in the course of implementing the digital inclusion initiatives to benefit more elderly people. At the same time, the DPO actively reaches out to various District Councils (DC) to introduce the programme details, encourage collaboration among DC members, and leverage their community networks to further engage more elderly people, thereby enhancing the programme’s social impact. The DPO hopes that members of the public will actively encourage the elderly around them to participate in the digital inclusion activities of the Programme, and join hands with the Government to promote the adoption of digital technologies by the elderly, so as to build a digitally inclusive and caring society,” the spokesman added.
     
         For relevant details about various programmes of “Smart Silver”, please visit the DPO website (www.digitalpolicy.gov.hk/en/our_work/digital_government/digital_inclusion/Issued at HKT 15:20

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to visit Laos to promote GBA’s development opportunities and Hong Kong’s unique advantages

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to visit Laos to promote GBA’s development opportunities and Hong Kong’s unique advantages 
         Ms Chan will attend the “Business and Investment Opportunities in Hong Kong – Gateway to Greater Bay Area” seminar hosted by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore. She will also participate in a discussion titled “Hong Kong – A Super-connector and Super Value-adder between the Greater Bay Area and Laos” and exchange views with participants to promote how Hong Kong can help Lao enterprises and talent seize the tremendous opportunities brought about by GBA development.
     
         During her stay in Vientiane, Ms Chan will call on the officials of the Chinese Embassy in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Laos. She will also meet with representatives of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Lao Chinese Chamber of Commerce to learn about the latest developments in Laos and to promote the development opportunities of the GBA.
     
         Ms Chan will conclude her visit and return to Hong Kong on May 8.
    Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: A relatively dry and bright April

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         With drier northeast monsoon affecting Hong Kong for most of the time and less moisture supply to the coast of southern China in the month, April 2025 was drier than usual in Hong Kong. The monthly mean relative humidity was 74 per cent, the second lowest on record for April since 1947. Moreover, the total rainfall in the month was 57.1 millimetres, only about 37 per cent of the normal of 153.0 millimetres. The accumulated rainfall recorded in the first four months of the year was 125.5 millimetres, about 42 per cent of the normal of 300.4 millimetres for the same period. The month was also sunnier than usual. The monthly total sunshine duration was 155.6 hours, about 37 per cent above the normal of 113.2 hours. April 2025 was warmer than usual with a mean temperature of 23.7 degrees, 0.7 degrees above the normal of 23.0 degrees.

         Under the influence of the northeast monsoon and a broad band of clouds covering southern China, the weather was mainly cloudy and cold with one or two light rain patches on the morning of the first day of the month. The temperatures at the Observatory fell to a minimum of 12.9 degrees that morning, the lowest of the month. With the band of clouds thinning out, there were sunny periods during the day. The weather became fine and dry the next day. Under the influence of a dry easterly airstream, it remained fine and very dry on the afternoon of April 3. While it was generally fine at first on April 4, a band of clouds gradually covered the coast of Guangdong, leading to cloudier weather that afternoon and the following two days. There were occasional showers on April 5, with around 10 millimetres of rainfall recorded over many places. With the band of clouds thinning out, the weather became mainly fine on April 7. It was dry and rather warm during the day. Winds were weak over the coast of Guangdong on April 8 and 9. The weather in Hong Kong was rather warm with sunny periods.

         A southerly airstream brought humid weather in the following three days. Locally, there were fog patches on the morning of April 11, with the visibility in the harbour once falling below 1 000 metres. Moreover, a trough of low pressure over northern Guangdong developed into a cold front on the morning of April 12. As the cold front edged closer to the coastal region, local showers increased with a few squally thunderstorms that afternoon. More than 10 millimetres of rainfall was recorded over many places, and rainfall even exceeded 20 millimetres over Tai Po District. The cold front moved across the coastal areas around that evening. Under the influence of the associated intense and dry northeast monsoon, showers eased off with temperatures falling gradually that night. Strong northerly winds also affected many parts of Hong Kong that night and at first the next day, with winds occasionally reaching gale force offshore and on high ground. The intense monsoon also transported sand and dust southwards from Mongolia and brought widespread sandstorms to many inland areas in China. Under the influence of the very dry continental airstream and the sand and dust weather, the weather was very dry with visibility slightly dropping to around 5 to 6 kilometres over parts of the territory from April 13 to 15. The relative humidity over many places on these three days fell below 40 per cent. The relative humidity recorded at the Observatory on April 13 once fell to 21 per cent, the lowest record in April since the establishment of the automatic weather station at the Observatory’s Headquarters in 1984. With plenty of sunshine and weaker winds on April 15, the temperatures at the Observatory soared to a maximum of 33.0 degrees that afternoon, the highest of the month. It also marked the earliest occurrence of very hot weather in a year and the second highest maximum temperature for April on record.

         An easterly airstream affected the coast of Guangdong on April 16 and 17. While the local weather was mainly fine and dry during the day on April 16, it became mainly cloudy the next day with coastal fog in the morning and at night. The visibility at Waglan Island once fell below 1 000 metres. With a humid southerly airstream replacing the easterly airstream that afternoon, the weather was cloudy with a few showers in the following two days. There was coastal fog from April 18 to 21. The southerly airstream continued to affect the coast of Guangdong and brought hot weather to Hong Kong from April 20 to 24. The maximum temperature recorded at the Observatory was 30.6 degrees on April 20, making it one of the warmest day of Easter on record.

         A trough of low pressure affected inland Guangdong on April 24 and edged closer to the coastal areas in the evening, bringing showers and a few squally thunderstorms that night and the next day. Showers were heavy on the morning of April 25. More than 30 millimetres of rainfall was recorded over many places, and rainfall even exceeded 50 millimetres over the eastern part of Hong Kong Island, Kwun Tong and Tseung Kwan O. With a fresh to strong easterly airstream setting in that night, the weather was cloudy with a few showers and became cooler in the following two days. There were also fog patches on April 27. The visibility at Waglan Island once fell below 1 000 metres. Another trough of low pressure over inland Guangdong edged closer to the coastal areas gradually that night. Apart from coastal fog on the morning of April 28, there were showers and one or two thunderstorms that day with rainfall exceeding 10 millimetres over many places, and around 30 millimetres of rainfall was even recorded over the northern part of the New Territories. Affected by a relatively dry easterly airstream, the weather was generally fine on the last two days of the month.

         There was no tropical cyclone over the South China Sea and the western North Pacific in April 2025.

         Details of issuance and cancellation of various warnings/signals in the month are summarised in Table 1. Monthly meteorological figures and departures from normal for April are tabulated in Table 2.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Reaffirms Commitment to Buddha’s Teachings at UN Vesak Day-2025 in Vietnam

    Source: Government of India

    India Reaffirms Commitment to Buddha’s Teachings at UN Vesak Day-2025 in Vietnam

    Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Conveys President and PM’s Greetings at UN Vesak Celebrations

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 4:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, today addressed a distinguished global gathering at the United Nations Vesak Day-2025 Celebrations held at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Ho Chi Minh City. On behalf of President Smt. Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Rijiju extended warm greetings to the international audience celebrating this sacred occasion.

    In his address, Shri Rijiju emphasized the enduring relevance of Lord Buddha’s teachings in today’s world and highlighted India’s ancient and continuing commitment to sustainability, peace, and human dignity. He underscored how the message of the Buddha serves as a guiding light in the face of contemporary global challenges.

    The grand ceremony was graced by the presence of the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, H.E. Luong Cuong, and the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, among several heads of state and spiritual leaders. Eminent Buddhist figures including the Supreme Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Most Venerable Thich Tri Quang, and the Chairman of the International Organizing Committee for UNDV, Most Venerable Prof. Dr. Pra Brahmapundit, were also present.

    The 2025 celebrations, themed “Solidarity and Tolerance for Human Dignity; Buddhist Wisdom for World Peace and Sustainable Development,” convey a powerful message amid global uncertainties.

    Sacred Holy Relics of Lord Buddha are being exhibited with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the Mahabodhi Society of India, the National Museum of India, and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). The relics are currently on display at Thanh Tam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City and will travel to Tay Ninh, Hanoi, and Ha Nam until May 21, 2025.

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    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

    (Release ID: 2127263) Visitor Counter : 14

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Minority Affairs Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju addresses opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak

    Source: Government of India

    Minority Affairs Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju addresses opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak

    Shri Rijiju underlines significance of presence of Holy Buddha Relics in Ho Chi Minh City coinciding with the UN Day of Vesak celebrations

    Shri Rijiju meets President of Vietnam, Mr. Luong Cuong

    Posted On: 06 MAY 2025 4:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju addressed the opening ceremony of the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City today, which was also addressed by the President of Vietnam, Mr. Luong Cuong, President of Sri Lanka, Shri Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Sanghraja of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Thich Tri Quang and other leaders. Shri Rijiju conveyed warmest greetings and message on behalf of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.  He noted that timeless teachings of Lord Buddha offer profound insights and solutions to most of the present global challenges.  He mentioned that India’s initiative of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) to promote awareness about the impact of individual choices on our shared planet was deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy. He also invited the followers of Lord Buddha to visit the sacred sites associated with teachings of Lord Buddha in India and connect with this living heritage. Shri Rijiju also underlined the significance of the presence of Holy Buddha Relics in Ho Chi Minh City coinciding with the United Nations Day of Vesak celebrations.

    Shri Rijiju separately met the President of Vietnam, Mr. Luong Cuong.  While recognizing the healthy progress in multi-dimensional cooperation between India and Vietnam, both leaders’ sides affirmed support for further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. Mr. Cuong appreciated Government of India’s sending of Holy Buddha Relics to Vietnam. The President of Vietnam accompanied by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs of India, the Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs of Vietnam, Politburo Member and Party Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City paid their respects to the Holy Buddha Relics brought from Sarnath near Kashi to the pagoda (temple) in Ho Chi Minh City.

    Shri Kiren Rijiju also visited an exhibition of Indian sculptures of Lord Buddha as well as digital restoration of Buddhist monuments in India on the sidelines of the United Nations Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.  He also visited a comparative exhibition of Buddhist art and sculptures in India and Vietnam which brings out that over one and half millennia old Buddhist connections between the two countries extended beyond spirituality to the fields of art and culture.

    ***

    SS/ISA

    (Release ID: 2127261) Visitor Counter : 47

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – Private Landowners on Maui Nui Sought to Assist Axis Deer Control, May 5, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – Private Landowners on Maui Nui Sought to Assist Axis Deer Control, May 5, 2025

    Posted on May 5, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

         JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DAWN N.S. CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

     

     

    PRIVATE LANDOWNERS ON MAUI NUI SOUGHT TO ASSIST AXIS DEER CONTROL

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    May 5, 2025

      

    KAHULUI, MAUI – Axis deer continue to negatively impact Maui Nui forested watersheds, agricultural land and population centers. To combat these problems, the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) is inviting eligible private landowners and lessees to apply to the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) to achieve appropriate, sustainable population levels.

    This program aims to incentivize landowners on Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi to increase the number of axis deer removed from their properties and enhance protection efforts for the state’s threatened natural and agricultural resources. Applicants awarded a contract will be eligible to receive up to $50 for each qualifying deer tail presented. Awards are based on the availability of funds.

    All axis deer harvest/control must abide by all applicable laws, including Hawai‘i Administrative Rules Chapter 123, Rules Regulating Game Mammal Hunting.

    The deadline to submit proposals is May 19, 2025 at 4 p.m. Once approved, the LIP for each participant is 12 months. Compensation for deer in any given fiscal year is limited to the annual legislative appropriation for the program, and no further compensation will be paid once the funding allocation is exhausted.

    Watershed partnerships spend hundreds of thousands of dollars annually building fences to keep feral ungulates from trampling native plants. Left unchecked, axis deer will steadily decrease overall forest health. Recent harvest rates suggest a promising trend toward minimizing environmental and economic damage to property and land and reducing the overall deer population.

     

    # # # 

     

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    For more information and to apply: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dofaw/files/2025/04/DOFAW-AXIS-DEER-5_Fillable-1.pdf

     

    Video – Molokaʻi Axis Deer Aerials (December 2021): https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/kjumendb8em88g1xcmpav/Molokai-Axis-Deer-Aerials-James-Espaniola-SOTs-Dec.-2021-Original-12-11-21.mp4?rlkey=i7r66p24glxcub5w27u8j944l&st=mnc6opn8&dl=0

     

     

    Photographs – Axis Deer: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ql3pl15r9gwwzkonrdd39/AGQ_aF2Z432KWRWkBwYVxtE?rlkey=0ib9xdwz1h1twdbsbb3prk724&st=qu8zk7bl&dl=0

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Patti Jette

    Communications Specialist

    Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396 

    Email: [email protected] 

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Latest news – Meeting of 8 May 2025 jointly with D-US Delegation – Delegation for relations with the People’s Republic of China

    Source: European Parliament

    The China Delegation (D-CN) will hold an ordinary meeting jointly with the United States Delegation (D-US) on Thursday 8 May 2025 at 9:00-10:30 in Strasbourg.

    The meeting will focus on the US-Europe-China triangle in an increasingly multipolar world with:

    • Mr Niklas Kvarnström, Managing Director for Asia and Pacific, EEAS; and
    • Mr François Godement, Special Advisor and Resident Senior Fellow – U.S. and Asia, Institute Montaigne.

    The meeting will be held in camera.

    MIL OSI Europe News –