NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27
    Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on October 27
    ***************************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) today (October 9) announced that an auction of personalised vehicle registration marks (PVRMs) will be held on October 27 (Sunday) in Meeting Room S421, L4, Old Wing, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai.      “A total of 240 approved PVRMs will be put up for public auction. A list of the marks has been uploaded to the department’s website, http://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/index.html,” a department spokesman said.      The reserve price of each of these marks is $5,000. Applicants who have paid a deposit of $5,000 should also participate in the bidding (including the first bid at the reserve price). Otherwise, the PVRM concerned may be sold to another bidder at the reserve price.      People who wish to participate in the bidding at the auction should take note of the following points: (1) Bidders are required to produce the following documents for completion of registration and payment procedures immediately after successful bidding: (i) the identity document of the successful bidder;(ii) the identity document of the purchaser (if the purchaser and the successful bidder are different persons);(iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation (if the purchaser is a body corporate); and(iv) a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. 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. (2) Purchasers must make payment of the purchase price through EPS or by crossed cheque and complete the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM immediately after the bidding. Subsequent alteration of the particulars in the Memorandum will not be permitted. (3) A PVRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle which is registered in the name of the purchaser. The Certificate of Incorporation must be produced immediately by the purchaser if a vehicle registration mark purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate. (4) The display of a PVRM on a motor vehicle should be in compliance with the requirements stipulated in Schedule 4 of the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations. (5) Any change to the arrangement of letters, numerals and blank spaces of a PVRM, i.e. single and two rows as auctioned, will not be allowed. (6) The purchaser shall, within 12 months after the date of auction, apply to the Commissioner for Transport for the PVRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. If the purchaser fails to assign the PVRM within 12 months, allocation of the PVRM will be cancelled and arranged for re-allocation in accordance with the statutory provision without prior notice to the purchaser.      “Upon completion of the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM, the purchaser will be issued a receipt and a Certificate of Allocation of Personalised Registration Mark. The Certificate of Allocation will serve to prove the holdership of the PVRM. Potential buyers of vehicles bearing a PVRM should check the Certificate of Allocation with the sellers and pay attention to the details therein. For transfer of vehicle ownership, this certificate together with other required documents should be sent to the TD for processing,” the spokesman added.      For other auction details, please refer to the Guidance Notes – Auction of PVRM, which is available at the department’s licensing offices or can be downloaded from its website, http://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/pvrm_auction/index.html.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 9, 2024Issued at HKT 14:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Capital enterprises increased food production with the support of the city

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Today, the capital’s food industry is represented by 290 enterprises employing over 60 thousand people. In the first eight months of this year, producers, with the active support of the city, increased the production of food and beverages. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “Moscow’s industrial enterprises successfully provide residents with critically important goods: clothing and footwear, medicines, medical equipment, household chemicals, and food products. On behalf of Sergei Sobyanin, the city provides industrialists with comprehensive support, which is aimed at strengthening technological sovereignty and creating the necessary volumes of in-demand products. Thus, from January to August 2024, Moscow saw an increase in food production. In particular, the production of fish products more than doubled, meat and dairy products by 10 percent, bakery and flour confectionery by seven percent, and beverages by 16 percent. In addition, during this period, Moscow enterprises shipped food products worth more than 472.3 billion rubles, which is almost 20 percent more than the same period in 2023,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    From January to August, industrialists produced over 200.9 thousand tons of sausages, more than 53.8 million cans of fruit and vegetable preserves, about 27 thousand tons of cheese and cottage cheese, approximately 327 thousand tons of bread and bakery products, as well as almost 30 thousand cans of fruit and vegetable juices.

    Goods produced in the city are in demand both within the Moscow agglomeration and in other regions of the country, as well as abroad. Get advice on developing an export business direction you can hereSince 2022, the capital’s producers of non-raw material, non-energy products have found new partners in the markets of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the CIS countries.

    “Based on the results of the first eight months of 2024, meat processing plants delivered goods to customers worth almost 106 billion rubles, and dairy plants – almost 60 billion. In addition, bread and bakery producers shipped more than 63 billion rubles. The volume of beverage deliveries amounted to 54 billion rubles and exceeded the results of January-August 2023 by 41 percent,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    Moscow is the largest industrial and scientific-engineering center of Russia. There are more than 4.5 thousand industrial enterprises in the capital, employing over 750 thousand people. Every year, 150 new technology companies open here and dozens of investment projects are implemented, providing the city with additional jobs.

    The capital has developed a set of measures aimed at increasing Moscow’s investment attractiveness for domestic industrialists and developing production. Comfortable conditions have been created for small, medium and large enterprises – today, manufacturers have access to more than 20 systemic and anti-crisis support tools.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145002073/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Maintenance mediation scheme set

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Home & Youth Affairs Bureau today announced the launch of the Maintenance Mediation Pilot Scheme to assist the parties concerned to resolve disputes on the related matters through mediation rather than court proceedings.

    Launched through the Community Care Fund, the scheme subsidises a non-governmental organisation to provide mediation services on maintenance to people in need, offering an alternative way for maintenance payers and payees to settle disagreements other than court proceedings.  

    Parties involved in maintenance payment disputes are eligible to apply for the pilot scheme free of charge, provided that one of the parties is a Hong Kong resident and meets the income limit.

    The bureau noted that this can encourage maintenance payers in default of payment to engage in mediation.

    The three-year pilot scheme is expected to process a total of 1,200 cases, benefitting 2,400 separating or divorcing persons.

    Based on the Hong Kong Family Welfare Society (HKFWS)’s extensive experience and well-established network in relation to the relevant mediation services and publicity work, the bureau has appointed HKFWS as the service operator of the pilot scheme.

    Call 2561 9229 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 113th R.O.C (Taiwan) National Day Dinner hosted by the Double Tenth Celebration Committee

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu, Mrs. Vicki Wu and TECO staff attended the 113th R.O.C (Taiwan)National Day Dinner Event hosted by the Double Tenth Celebration Committee, with over 400 guests including friends from NSW State Parliament, city councils and Taiwanese communities.
    DG Wu extended his gratitude for the support and effort of the Committee and Taiwanese communities. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Peace, Friendship and Innovation”—perfectly aligns with Taiwan’s roadmap for development and the vision for the future.
    Taiwan is eager for peace and stability, because we know the military conflict is against the benefits of the universe. We thank Australian government and friends in keeping steadfast support for Taiwan and opposing any unilateral change of the status quo of Taiwan Strait. As an innovation powerhouse and vibrant democracy, Taiwan plays a vital role in global supply chains. Taiwan will continue to work with Australia to protect our democratic system and shared values. DG Wu also thanked Communities’ support and attendance of our National Day Reception on Thursday. The impressive turnout reflected Australian friends’ unwavering support and appreciation.
    The guest speakers recoginized the great contribution and active engagement of Taiwanese communities, which enriches the multicultural harmony of Australian society. They all look forward to more collaborations between Australia and Taiwan to benefit both sides.
    Besides the Taiwanese business and artwork display, exhibition of Taiwan indigenous literature and amazing performances. DG Wu also witnessed the charity donation of AUD 6,000 to the Smith Family, which highlights Taiwan’s role as a force for good in the world.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FSTB and Bloomberg establish strategic collaboration to enhance Hong Kong’s family office ecosystem

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FSTB and Bloomberg establish strategic collaboration to enhance Hong Kong’s family office ecosystem
    FSTB and Bloomberg establish strategic collaboration to enhance Hong Kong’s family office ecosystem
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) announced today (October 9) the establishment of Hong Kong Family Office Nexus, a strategic collaboration between the FSTB and Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) with the goal of attracting family offices from around the world to establish or expand their presence in Hong Kong and reinforcing the city’s status as a leading global asset and wealth management hub.      The strategic collaboration was forged following a pivotal meeting in New York this April between the Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, and the Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies, Mr Michael Bloomberg. Their discussions centred on Hong Kong’s policy initiatives to transform the city into a global hub for family offices and philanthropic activities, and how the two parties shall collaborate to further the efforts.      The partnership with Bloomberg will focus on four key pillars, namely community building, knowledge sharing, technology support and philanthropic collaboration. The FSTB, together with Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) and the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy (HKAWL), will collaborate with Bloomberg on various initiatives to bolster Hong Kong’s family office ecosystem.      Mr Hui said, “Michael and I share a common vision to develop Hong Kong into a global centre for family offices and philanthropists. His insights, together with Bloomberg’s extensive international reach and its expertise in financial data and technology, will be invaluable to further enhance Hong Kong’s appeal to family offices worldwide. It is our great pleasure to partner with Bloomberg to reinforce Hong Kong’s enduring strength as an international financial hub and showcase our commitment to fostering further development and innovation in wealth management and charitable giving. We look forward to working closely with Bloomberg to create an environment where family offices and philanthropic initiatives will thrive.”      The Head of Asia Pacific, Bloomberg, Mr Bing Li, said, “Hong Kong is one of the world’s most compelling family office destinations, with a distinct combination of expertise, regulatory settings and deep financial markets. The Hong Kong Government has a clear goal to grow Hong Kong as a world-class family office hub, and Hong Kong Family Office Nexus seeks to equip that group with the tools and support they need to succeed here. Bloomberg is proud to contribute to the long-term development of Hong Kong’s family office community.”      Titled “Hong Kong Family Office Nexus”, the partnership will encompass the following four key pillars and components: 1. Community Building: The involved parties will co-organise seminars for family office industry professionals covering topics of interest, including impact investing and alternative asset allocation. Bloomberg will also establish a dedicated digital content hub, the Hong Kong Family Office Nexus Knowledge Hub, to host information related to Hong Kong’s family office sector for ongoing community building. It will be available to the Hong Kong family office community in the coming months; 2. Knowledge Sharing: Bloomberg will curate a family office guidebook, providing guidance on setting up family offices in Hong Kong and introducing relevant policy initiatives, such as tax concessions offered and the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme; 3. Technology Support: Bloomberg will support InvestHK’s family office clients by offering access to Bloomberg’s suite of family office solutions, including Bloomberg Terminal trials, a range of financial and alternative data, and opportunities to learn from Bloomberg’s global network of experts. Bloomberg will also join InvestHK’s Network of Family Office Service Providers, contributing insights and expertise on the latest trends of technology solutions for the family office sector; and 4. Philanthropic Collaboration: The HKAWL will collaborate with Bloomberg Corporate Philanthropy on opportunities for family offices and high-net wealth individuals to engage in Hong Kong’s philanthropic community.      In addition, Bloomberg will introduce a new summit in Hong Kong focused on wealth management in March 2025. This event will complement and amplify the impact of the FSTB’s annual flagship event, the Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit (WGHK).  Strategically scheduled to coincide with WGHK 2025, this collaborative effort aims to create synergy, sustaining and building upon the growing momentum in Hong Kong’s family office sector. The dual summits will offer an unparalleled platform for family office principals and professionals to exchange insights, explore opportunities, and shape the future of wealth management in the region. Other initiatives of Hong Kong Family Office Nexus will commence in phases in late 2024.      The Director-General of Investment Promotion, Ms Alpha Lau, said, “We believe that the additional content on Bloomberg’s extensive platforms regarding Hong Kong’s family office sector will complement InvestHK’s efforts in showcasing Hong Kong’s vibrant family office ecosystem to our global audience. We look forward to collaborating with Bloomberg during the extended week at next March’s Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit to amplify industry impact and highlight the city’s status as a leading family office hub.”      The Executive Director of the Financial Services Development Council, Dr King Au, said, “We are taking a significant step in enhancing our city’s family office ecosystem. This collaboration underscores our commitment to solidifying Hong Kong as a premier destination for family offices globally, fostering innovation, knowledge sharing, and philanthropy. We aim to create a vibrant community that attracts and supports family offices, driving sustainable growth and bolstering Hong Kong’s status as a leading international financial hub.” 

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 9, 2024Issued at HKT 15:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taiwan Tamkang University President Dr. Huan-Chao Keh and his team visited TECO

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    Taiwan’s Tamkang University President Dr. Huan-Chao Keh led the dream AI team to Australia and paid a visit to Director General David Cheng-Wei Wu.
    President Keh shared his observations regarding the capacity of Taiwan’s Hi-tech and AI, international student exchange and mandarin learning programs, and future development of Taiwan’s advanced education.
    Worth mentioning is Tamkamg’s College of Artificial Innovative Intelligence is recognised by AI industry since it is the only university member invited to join the “Taiwan AI Alliance” and serves as a co-organizer.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Australia’s TPG Telecom Taps Mavenir to Boost Voice Security For Mobile Users and Block AI-Driven Scam Calls

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RICHARDSON, Texas, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mavenir, the Network Software Provider building the future of networks with cloud-native solutions that run on any cloud, today announces that its advanced machine learning (ML) technology is being used by TPG Telecom to protect mobile users from the increasing scourge of AI-driven scam and spam voice calls – resulting in a 280 per cent increase in the number of fraudulent calls being blocked before they reach TPG Telecom customers’ mobile phones.

    The Australian telco is already benefiting from Mavenir’s intelligent SpamShield technology protection for SMS messaging for several years. Mavenir is now supplying its robust, real-time CallShield solution –to protect TPG Telecom’s customers across its Vodafone, TPG, iiNet and felix brands from the nuisance and threat of automated and deepfake voice calls initiated by fraudsters.

    In the first six months of this year, Mavenir’s CallShield technology has blocked almost 19 million fraudulent mobile calls from reaching TPG Telecom’s customers. This equates to blocking 103,000 illicit calls from reaching customers per day, and more than triple the 4.9 million calls blocked in the first half of 2023. This represents some of the highest scam and spam call prevention figures in the industry.

    TPG Telecom also uses Mavenir’s SpamShield platform to stop fraudulent SMS from reaching its mobile users. In the first six months of 2024, Mavenir’s technology blocked more than 59.6 million fraudulent text messages from reaching TPG Telecom’s customers.

    Communication Service Providers (CSPs) globally are facing a constantly evolving flow of unsolicited spam and fraud traffic – across both data and voice services – which is increasingly driven by sophisticated AI techniques, making it very difficult to detect and control. In addition to creating a poor experience for users and significant revenue losses for operators, a 2022 report by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission highlighted that phone scams cost Australians a concerning A$141 million in losses. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the regulator of the country’s telecommunications system, is spearheading industry action to crack down on spam and scam calls and ensure that consumers are adequately protected – enforcing regulatory compliance from operators and supporting the roll-out of effective security solutions from technology vendors. Mavenir’s CallShield solution uses real-time machine learning technology to carry out automated security analysis and proactive defense across voice services – helping operators to stay one step ahead of the scammers. The CallShield solution provides CSPs with 360-degree control to effectively address specific situations within their networks with unrivalled speed and flexibility. While traditional detection and prevention techniques are based on deterministic rules that can be easily detected and bypassed, CallShield’s ML detection algorithms with built-in intelligence adapt to current network conditions and subscriber behavior to continually detect and block attempted activity from spammers and fraudster.

    TPG Telecom Chief Technology Officer Giovanni Chiarelli said: “Our business is built on the trust of our customers. We are committed to embracing new technologies that provide the best possible protection against the nuisance and threat of malicious harm posed by these spammers and scammers. We are pleased Mavenir’s CallShield technology is providing real-time, automated security analysis and effective security for customers across our voice services.”

    Jan Schaar, Asia Pacific Regional Vice President for Mavenir, added: “The speed and sophistication of the techniques being employed by scammers and fraudsters means that a reactive security approach based on purely “reporting” spam is no longer enough. To offer mobile users the assurance and peace of mind they need today, we need to work harder and smarter, and remain one step ahead at all times – continuously learning from and anticipating the scammers’ next move. Our SpamShield platform, with its powerful ML-driven engine, is already delivering state-of-the-art, proactive security and protection across TPG’s messaging services. We are happy to now be extending the solution span by providing our robust CallShield technology – ensuring that TPG’s mobile customers can now enjoy the same superior protection from nuisance and malicious threats that arrive in the form of unwanted voice calls.”

    Notes to editor:

    TPG official Press Release – TPG Telecom stops spams and scams from reaching customers with new call blocker

    CallShield – Mavenir

    SpamShield / Messaging Fraud – Mavenir

    About TPG Telecom

    TPG Telecom is an Australian telecommunications company which is home to some of Australia’s most-loved telecommunications brands including Vodafone, TPG, iiNet, AAPT, Internode, Lebara and felix. As the second largest telecommunications company listed on the ASX, TPG Telecom has a strong challenger spirit and a commitment to delivering the best services and products to its customers. http://www.tpgtelecom.com.au.

    TPG Telecom PR Contact:
    media@tpgtelecom.com.au

    About Mavenir:

    Mavenir is building the future of networks today with cloud-native, AI-enabled solutions which are green by design, empowering operators to realize the benefits of 5G and achieve intelligent, automated, programmable networks. As the pioneer of Open RAN and a proven industry disruptor, Mavenir’s award-winning solutions are delivering automation and monetization across mobile networks globally, accelerating software network transformation for 300+ Communications Service Providers in over 120 countries, which serve more than 50% of the world’s subscribers. For more information, please visit http://www.mavenir.com

    Mavenir PR Contacts:
    Emmanuela Spiteri
    PR@mavenir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the Plenary Session of the 44th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, attended the Plenary Session of the 44th ASEAN Summit held at the National Convention Center in Vientiane, Lao PDR today. SG Dr. Kao reported on the progress of ASEAN Community-building in 2024 to the ASEAN Leaders and highlighted the key deliverables of Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship under the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the Plenary Session of the 44th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Eviden drives quantum adoption with installation of IQM Spark quantum computer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    This IQM quantum computer will enable Eviden’s clients to engage in quantum programming and applications.

    Paris, France – October 9, 2024 – Eviden, the Atos Group business leading in advanced computing today announces having signed a partnership with IQM Quantum Computers – a global leader in designing, building, and selling superconducting quantum computers – to make quantum computing a reality across businesses and organizations.

    While performance is key, the stability and fidelity of the qubits have become a crucial element in the near quantum revolution to run accurate operations. To tackle this challenge, IQM Spark™ is a superconducting quantum computer which offers high single-qubit and two-qubit gates fidelity, ensuring reliable and accurate quantum applications.

    Eviden has therefore installed IQM SparkTM, a quantum computer tailored for educational purposes and experimental research, for its customers to learn, experiment, and start developing real-life quantum proofs-of-concept. With this significant milestone in the journey toward quantum adoption, Eviden reaffirms its dedication and commitment to making quantum computing technology more accessible to everyone.

    With complete physical access to this machine installed in Eviden’s flagship factory (Angers, France), the Group’s users and clients will benefit from flexible and immediate experimentation. Remote-as-a-service access through an Eviden private cloud will also be deployed to make this technology broadly accessible.

    Access to a IQM SparkTM will allow research labs, universities, and industry players to better learn and understand quantum computing technology and discover programming approaches, noise models, usage constraints, and more.

    Eviden will also leverage the machine to provide access to the Eviden R&D and internal consulting community, to enhance quantum applications and integration with HPC clusters, and to improve Eviden’s compilers and create new noise-aware compilers.

    Access to the machine will be part of Eviden’s Qaptiva offering, a complete quantum computing application development environment, enriched by consulting services and an ecosystem of software and hardware partners.

    Dr. Cédric Bourrasset, Global Head of HPC-AI and Quantum Computing, Eviden, Atos Group highlighted “Hosting our very first quantum computer is a major step in our quantum computing journey. With this milestone, Eviden now combines quantum emulation and quantum computing processing to offer a tangible solution to enter the world of quantum physics. This comes with great benefits for programming without the high costs and complexities usually inherent to such technologies, therefore making quantum computing more affordable and accessible.”

    Dr. Mikko Välimäki, Co-CEO at IQM Quantum Computers, said: “The installation of IQM Spark, the first fully functional quantum computer at Eviden, adds to the growing network of our systems deployed globally and demonstrates our commitment to accelerate commercial quantum adoption for businesses. We are confident that our system will provide significant value to Eviden’s clients while we look forward to collaborating with other enterprises in their quantum journey.”

    “Through our partnership with Eviden, we are not only providing cutting-edge quantum computing technology but also enabling educational and experimental opportunities for future quantum innovators in France as they develop applications and proofs-of-concept, accelerating the journey toward widespread quantum adoption,” added the Vice President Global Business and Marketing at IQM Quantum Computers, Sylwia Barthel de Weydenthal.

    ***

    About Eviden1

    Eviden is a next-gen technology leader in data-driven, trusted and sustainable digital transformation with a strong portfolio of patented technologies. With worldwide leading positions in advanced computing, security, AI, cloud and digital platforms, it provides deep expertise for all industries in more than 47 countries. Bringing together 47,000 world-class talents, Eviden expands the possibilities of data and technology across the digital continuum, now and for generations to come. Eviden is an Atos Group company with an annual revenue of c. € 5 billion.

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 92,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea), and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    About IQM Quantum Computers:    

    IQM is a global leader in designing, building, and selling superconducting quantum computers. IQM provides both on-premises full-stack quantum computers and a cloud platform to access its computers anywhere in the world.  

    IQM customers include the leading supercomputing centres, enterprises, and research labs which have full access to IQM’s software and hardware.  IQM has over 280 employees with offices in Espoo, Munich, Paris, Warsaw, Madrid Singapore, and Palo Alto  

    Press contacts

    Atos Group: Constance Arnoux – constance.arnoux@eviden.com – +33 (0)6 44 12 16 35

    IQM: press@meetiqm.com – +358504790845    

    1 Eviden business is operated through the following brands: AppCentrica, ATHEA, Cloudamize, Cloudreach, Cryptovision, DataSentics, Edifixio, Energy4U, Engage ESM, Evidian, Forensik, IDEAL GRP, In Fidem, Ipsotek, Maven Wave, Profit4SF, SEC Consult, Visual BI, Worldgrid, X-Perion. Eviden is a registered trademark.
    Eviden is a registered trademark. © Eviden SAS, 2024.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected cannabis buds worth about $130 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Hong Kong Customs seized about 500 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds with an estimated market value of about $130 million at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound on September 27.
          
         Through risk assessment, Customs on that day inspected a seaborne consignment, declared as carrying soy beans, arriving in Hong Kong from Canada, at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound. Upon inspection, Customs officers found the batch of suspected cannabis buds concealed inside 83 bags of soy beans.
          
         After a follow-up investigation and a controlled delivery operation, Customs officers arrested two men and one woman aged between 44 and 55, who were suspected to be connected with the case, during September 27 and October 2. An investigation is ongoing.
          
         Customs reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary returns. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
          
         Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, cannabis and tetrahydro-cannabinol (THC) are classified as dangerous drugs. Importation of products (including food or drinks) containing cannabis or THC into Hong Kong is prohibited unless the relevant provisions in the Ordinance are complied with. In order to avoid breaching the law inadvertently, special attention should be paid to the packaging labels of those products.
          
         Trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
          
         Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Correctional officer stops assault on person in custody

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Correctional officer stops assault on person in custody
    Correctional officer stops assault on person in custody
    *******************************************************

         ​A correctional officer stopped a person in custody assaulting another person in custody at Pik Uk Prison today (October 9).     At 10.02am today, a 49-year-old male person in custody attacked a 39-year-old male person in custody in a dining hall. The officer at the scene immediately stopped the assailant and called for reinforcement.     During the incident, the victim sustained injuries to his head, arm and back. After examination and treatment by the institution Medical Officer, he was referred to a public hospital for further treatment. The assailant sustained an injury to his leg. He did not need to be sent to a public hospital after examination and treatment by the institution Medical Officer.     The case has been reported to the Police for investigation.     The two persons in custody were sentenced to imprisonment for the offence of trafficking in a dangerous drug and taking employment after landing in Hong Kong unlawfully and remaining in Hong Kong without the authority of the Director of Immigration in August 2013 and September 2023 respectively.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 9, 2024Issued at HKT 15:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Leaders in an Interface with Parliamentary Heads of ASEAN

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, attended the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) at the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The Interface served as an important forum to promote solidarity, understanding and cooperation among the ASEAN Member States, and for an exchange of views between the legislative and executive branches.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN joins ASEAN Leaders in an Interface with Parliamentary Heads of ASEAN appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends Retreat Session of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, took part in the Retreat Session of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit at the National Convention Center in Vientiane today. During this session, ASEAN Leaders engaged in an exchange of views on regional and international issues of common interest and concern.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends Retreat Session of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets Prime Minister Feleti Teo of Tuvalu

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai meets Prime Minister Feleti Teo of Tuvalu
    2024-10-08

    On the morning of October 8, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Prime Minister Feleti Teo of Tuvalu and his wife. In remarks, President Lai thanked Tuvalu for speaking up for Taiwan at numerous international venues, and for its staunch support. Indicating that Taiwan and Tuvalu are both maritime nations, the president said that our nations will continue to address the challenges posed by climate change together and establish even closer collaboration in such areas as medicine and public health, agriculture and fisheries, and information and communications technology (ICT). President Lai stated that with resilience and courage, we will continue to defend freedom and democracy and ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region.
    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
    Talofa! [Greetings (Tuvaluan)] I extend a warm welcome to Prime Minister Teo, who is visiting Taiwan for the second time since taking office this February. In May, he attended the inauguration ceremony for Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao and myself. On this occasion, he is the chief guest for our National Day celebrations. We are delighted that Tuvalu is part of so many of Taiwan’s most important moments. Prime Minister Teo, we are truly thankful for how much you value and support our bilateral relations.
    Tuvalu spoke up for Taiwan at this year’s World Health Assembly and more recently at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), helping in our efforts to expand our international participation. At the UNGA, Prime Minister Teo actively urged the international community to recognize that UNGA Resolution 2758 does not preclude Taiwan’s participation in the UN system. I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Tuvalu for its staunch support and assistance.
    At the UNGA, Prime Minister Teo also described the double threat that Tuvalu faces due to climate change and sea level rise. Taiwan is a maritime nation as well, and we empathize deeply with Tuvalu. Having established a National Climate Change Committee directly under the Office of the President, we aim to combine the strengths of all sectors to enhance Taiwan’s adaptation mechanisms in response to extreme weather risks. And by boosting exchanges with other countries, we hope to share our experiences and policies.
    In recent years, Taiwan and Tuvalu have cooperated on a number of projects, including the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project. And going forward, our nations will continue to address the challenges posed by climate change together. We will also establish even closer collaboration in such areas as medicine and public health, agriculture and fisheries, and ICT so as to mutually advance development and prosperity.
    Taiwan and Tuvalu are just like brothers – or taina, as you say in Tuvaluan. Thank you once again for your visit, which will help continue to deepen our diplomatic alliance. With resilience and courage, we will continue to defend freedom and democracy and ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. I wish you all a fruitful and successful trip.
    Prime Minister Teo then delivered remarks, first conveying to President Lai and the people and government of Taiwan congratulations on our 113th National Day to be celebrated on Thursday. He indicated that Tuvalu shares the same month for its national day celebrations, having celebrated their 46th Day of Independence just the past week.
    Prime Minister Teo said that this is his second visit to Taipei. The first was his first overseas visit as prime minister, he noted, and he had come to witness President Lai’s inauguration. Prime Minister Teo said that he is doubly more honored this visit, as he was invited to be chief guest for this year’s National Day celebrations.
    Prime Minister Teo indicated that when his government was inaugurated in February, it immediately announced 21 priorities, one of those being to elevate and advance its relationship with Taiwan to a more comprehensive and integrated relationship. Our diplomatic relationship dates back to 1979, the prime minister said, which is the year just after Tuvalu gained independence. This year, he noted, we have celebrated 45 years of trusted friendship, and in the Pacific, Tuvalu is Taiwan’s oldest diplomatic ally. The prime minister said that our relationship is grounded firmly on democratic principles and values, which include respect for the rule of law, respect for democratic institutions and the doctrine of the separation of powers, and mutual respect for the integrity of national sovereignty.
    Prime Minister Teo stated that at the annual meeting of the UNGA, he made a very strong statement in support of Taiwan’s reintegration into the UN and related international systems. The UNGA’s main theme this year is to not leave anyone behind, he emphasized, so it was quite hypocritical for the UN system to not include Taiwan. The prime minister also remarked that there is nowhere in UNGA Resolution 2758 that makes any reference to Taiwan, and said that as long as he is in office, he and Tuvalu will continue to advance that strong advocation in support of Taiwan’s participation and reintegration into the global system.
    The prime minister went on to discuss the top priority and challenge of climate change – in particular, climate change-induced sea level rise, explaining that Tuvalu’s response to sea level rise is the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project and saying he is very grateful for Taiwan’s continued support. With Taiwan’s reinvigorated climate efforts, he said, he looks forward to future cooperation. Prime Minister Teo then acknowledged the other types of assistance that Taiwan has provided in terms of training and scholarships.
    Prime Minister Teo concluded his remarks by thanking President Lai once again for the invitation to serve as chief guest in the Double Ten celebration, saying that he and his delegation very much look forward to the event and reiterating Tuvalu’s congratulations and best wishes for our 113th National Day.
    The delegation also included Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour and Trade Paulson Panapa.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the Plenary Session of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, attended the Plenary Session of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit held at the National Convention Center in Vientiane, Lao PDR today. SG Dr. Kao reported on the progress of ASEAN Community-building in 2024 to the ASEAN Leaders and highlighted the key deliverables of Lao PDR’s ASEAN Chairmanship under the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN attends the Plenary Session of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI China: DPRK to cut off roads, railways connected to ROK

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) will completely cut off roads and railways connected to the Republic of Korea (ROK) beginning Wednesday amid the precarious situation on the Korean Peninsula, the General Staff of the Korean People’s Army (KPA) was quoted by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) as saying.

    The KPA General Staff stressed that the gravity of the situation on the peninsula can not be overlooked, with daily military exercises in the ROK region near the DPRK’s southern border, the frequent presence of US strategic nuclear assets, and the repeated talk about the “end of the regime” in the DPRK, said the report.

    The acute military situation on the peninsula requires the DPRK armed forces to take stronger measures to effectively defend national security, it added.

    “To this end, a project will be launched first on Oct 9 to completely cut off roads and railways connected to the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and fortify the relevant areas of our side with strong defense structures,” the report said.

    The KPA General Staff said the move is “a self-defensive measure for inhibiting war and defending the security of the DPRK”.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Scientists work to make this world a better place”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Federico Gallo – Research Fellow Center for Neuroeconomics and Cognitive Research Institute of Cognitive Neurosciences, National Research University Higher School of EconomicsIn 2023, he received the award “For special achievements in career and public life among foreign graduates of the National Research University Higher School of Economics.” In an interview, Federico talked about how he came to science and why he stayed in it, and also revealed the secret of an effective remedy against old age.

    The Beginning of the Journey: From Ancient Greek to Neuroscience

    Since childhood, I loved books, especially books about science, history, and the English language. I studied in a classical school, that is, I studied ancient Greek and Latin, antiquity. I was a very inquisitive child, and I was lucky that my family and friends always supported this inquisitive research nature in me. Then I realized that I wanted to connect my life with science, but I did not know which field exactly.

    At first, I decided that I wanted to become an astrophysicist and entered the physics department. But soon I realized that I was more attracted to mathematics and thought about changing my specialty. Then my mother, a high school teacher, advised me to pay attention to neuroscience. At that time, it was a completely new field of research. I was attracted by the fact that it combined several fields of knowledge, including the exact sciences, psychology, and linguistics. Even now, it seems to me that interdisciplinarity is the most remarkable and strong side of neuroscience.

    In 2011, I entered the University of Milan. Our first class was taught by Professor Andrea Moro. Incidentally, he was a student of Noam Chomsky himself, one of the most important intellectuals of the 20th century, who influenced the development of cognitive sciences in the world. I was fascinated not so much by the subject that Andrea taught, but by his approach to science. When it came time to write my thesis, I really wanted him to be my supervisor. But it so happened that Andrea received a new important position, and he did not have enough time to deal with scientific supervision. Then he recommended that I contact his wonderful colleague Professor Jubin Aboutalebi.

    Jubin was working on the topic of bilingualism. Even before we officially met, we accidentally bumped into him in the university corridors. He already knew that I was going to write my thesis with him, and immediately asked what age group I would like to work with. To be honest, I was a little confused, since I hadn’t had time to think about it yet. But I answered that I was interested in the elderly, because the whole world was gradually getting older. At that time, scientists had just begun to study the connection between bilingualism and aging.

    The next morning I was already in Jubin’s lab. Our friendship and close collaboration continues to this day, and the topic of bilingualism and aging has become the main focus of my research.

    Of course, all the knowledge I received both at school and at the university helped me a lot, but it was not decisive in my development as a scientist. The main thing is the people with whom life brings you together. I was very lucky: my scientific supervisors, family, friends, my fiancée Lisa always accepted and supported me.

    On working in Russia: “At HSE, you do science and don’t notice whether you’re in Russia, Italy, or the Philippines”

    Dzhubin has a friend and colleague, Andrey Myachikov, a leading research fellow at the HSE Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience. Together with another colleague from HSE, Yuri Shtyrov, they offered me to become a link in the collaboration between Milan and Moscow. Andrey won me over by the fact that he specially flew to Milan to meet me long before the competition for a postgraduate position opened. As a result, I received a scholarship from the government and HSE and moved to Moscow for postgraduate study.cognitive science program. At the same time, when I was already getting ready to go to Russia, I received an invitation to Barcelona, I received a prestigious scholarship named after Marie Curie. However, I was so inspired by the collaboration with my future scientific supervisors that I did not even have the thought to consider a new offer and change my decision.

    I remember my postgraduate years with great warmth and gratitude. I conducted research at the Center for Neuroeconomics and Cognitive Research, now part of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience. I was inspired by the trust that my senior colleagues placed in me, although I was only a young postgraduate student. I felt free and independent as a researcher, but at the same time I could always count on the attention and support of my “seniors.” This allowed me to become a truly mature, independent researcher. Many thanks to my scientific supervisors and staff at the center Andrey Myachikov, Yuri Shtyrov, Victoria Moiseyeva, Anna Shestakova for always believing in me.

    The Institute of Cognitive Neurosciences became my home, and I didn’t feel like a foreigner who found himself in a Russian academic environment. Thanks to the opportunities that HSE provides, you do science and don’t notice whether you are in Russia, Italy or the Philippines.

    After my PhD, I entered the postdoc program. Now I am probably one of the oldest employees of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience. I recently received a very prestigious Marie Curie fellowship and left Russia for a while. But I continue to work on my projects remotely, supervising several master’s and PhD students. I have seen for myself how people’s attitudes change if they see that you are confident and passionate about what you do. This evokes respect and even admiration. Therefore, one of the important tasks for me is to support young researchers, I try to give them confidence, give them the opportunity to be proud of themselves.

    On modern neuroscience, bilingualism and aging: “I may say something unpleasant, but the brain begins to age at 20–25 years old!”

    The main topic of my research is cognitive aging. I study how a person’s lifestyle affects the aging process, what factors can slow it down. I may say something unpleasant now, but the brain begins to age at 20-25, so it is very important to know where to invest in order to ensure a successful old age.

    One of the powerful factors that slow down cognitive aging is bilingualism. Bilingualism is not necessarily fluency in two languages from birth. The modern approach interprets it as knowledge of a second language at least at some level. Even if you start learning a foreign language as an adult, you will become bilingual and replenish your cognitive reserve.

    The cognitive reserve is the savings account of our brain, we replenish it throughout life when we get an education, new skills, play sports. In old age, when the brain requires additional resources to continue its usual activity, it begins to gradually use the funds in this account. If you have managed to accumulate a lot of funds during your life, the brain will be able to spend them for a long time and function normally, despite age-related changes.

    Our recent studies have shown that not only the fact of learning a second language, but also its choice can affect the functioning of the brain in old age. It turns out that close languages, that is, similar to each other, such as Spanish and Portuguese, are more useful for the brain in the long term than distant languages, with radically different grammatical and lexical-semantic structure. When we begin to learn a new language, we certainly train our brain, it learns to switch between language systems and not mix them. If the languages are distant, it is more difficult for a person to learn at first, but at the same time he can easily separate his native and foreign languages and not confuse them. If the languages are close, a person learns a new language much easier, but in order not to mix the two systems, the brain has to be constantly tense. That is, when learning Chinese, for example, the brain of Russians is very tense at the beginning, but then relaxes and becomes lazy, but in the case of Belarusian, it is constantly in good shape. So, as a cure for old age, it is more useful to learn related languages.

    About the future and dedication of scientists

    My colleagues and I are currently working on a large-scale project: a meta-analysis comparing all protective factors in terms of their positive impact on successful aging. I may be biased, but I think one of the most important areas of science is finding solutions to combat neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease. The number of diagnoses increases every year. We must study the causes and mechanism of the disease well, and then look for appropriate treatment. In this sense, bilingualism is one of the important and, most importantly, economically beneficial tools for the state to combat cognitive impairment in old age.

    In research work, it is important for me to feel that with our discoveries and results we make this world a better place. In my opinion, it is the desire to improve the world that should be the goal of a scientist. It is a pity that many people forget about this today.

    In a sense, I am an idealist. Science should not pursue selfish commercial goals. The most important part of it is dedication. I hope that I will leave a better world than the one I came into.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/scene/971833712.html

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: FLYR and Riyadh Air Partner to Deliver the World’s First Digitally-Native Airline, Utilizing Offer and Order Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Together, Riyadh Air and FLYR are transforming the passenger experience with shopping cart capabilities for passengers at every touch point

    Riyadh Air’s digital guest journey will be revealed at Future Investment Initiative Institute in Riyadh at the end of October

    SAN FRANCISCO and RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FLYR, the technology company that unlocks freedom to innovate for the travel industry, and Riyadh Air, one of the most forward-thinking airlines globally, today announced a strategic partnership that will shape the future of passenger travel. Through this partnership Riyadh Air will become the first full service carrier to operate on a fully native offer and order based technology to deliver a modern retailing platform and experience to its customers. Both FLYR and Riyadh Air have adopted the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) guiding business architecture principles for IT in modern airline retailing.

    Comments on the news:

    Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, said: “At Riyadh Air, innovation is at the core of everything we do. We are not just launching an airline; we are launching a new era of air travel. Our partnership with FLYR empowers us to harness the latest technologies to deliver a truly personalized and seamless travel experience, exceeding expectations at every step of the journey and offering our guests a virtually unlimited range of options at every touchpoint.”

    Alex Mans, Founder and CEO of FLYR, said: “Backed by the hopes, dreams, and financial might of a nation that is 92 percent urban and just 29 years of age on average, Riyadh Air embodies the future. Our partnership represents a significant step forward for the airline industry, proving that airlines can indeed say goodbye to the legacy PSS and welcome the future of retailing with Offer and Order. Together, we will set a new standard and demonstrate how a more responsive, personalized, and end-to-end travel experience is possible while simultaneously remaining compatible with technologies of the past.”

    An integral part of this step forward in airline retailing is how FLYR’s technology directly enables Riyadh Air to craft the digital retail experience today’s travelers have come to expect from most other industries. By easily introducing key capabilities such as shopping cart-like experiences, customers can book and change plans seamlessly, accessing everything they need for their trip in one location – from Riyadh Air flights and ancillaries, to third-party integrations including hotels and activities. FLYR provides the foundation for Riyadh Air to deliver these experiences in the form of several key technology solutions:

    • Offer Management capabilities, often referred to as “making the customer promise”, are delivered through Product Catalog, Stock Keeper, and Offer Translator enable Riyadh Air to deliver personalized offers to its customers across all touch points. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), Riyadh Air is able to introduce and distribute new products in real-time, while delivering tailored options for all customers across every touchpoint.
    • Order Management capabilities built upon IATA’s open ONE Order standard, will enable Riyadh Air to have order as the “single source of truth” for all downstream systems and processes. Riyadh Air is able to unify the entire customer journey including air and non-air products including airfare, seat selection, baggage, ancillaries, and third party products – into a single order. FLYR’s implementation of ONE Order supports all products the airline chooses to sell, including those from third parties, to be stored and managed centrally.
    • Digital Customer Experience capabilities orchestrate modern booking flows and integrate various systems involved with the retailing flow, visibly positioning Riyadh Air as the world’s first truly digitally native airline by offering exceptional and seamless travel experiences from booking to landing.

    Riyadh Air is shaping the future of flying, ushering in a new era for the travel and flying experience. The world-class, full-service airline is committed to sustainability and the highest safety standards across its advanced fleet of aircraft. Collaborating closely with airline partners such as Delta Air Lines, Singapore Airlines, and more, Riyadh Air will offer a seamless, globally connected travel experience unlike any other. Riyadh Air and FLYR will reveal the comprehensive digital guest journey at the Future Investment Initiative (FII), the flagship investment conference in Riyadh, at the end of October.

    About FLYR
    FLYR is a technology company that unlocks freedom to innovate for the travel industry – eliminating legacy constraints to enable real-time decision making and create the experiences travelers seek. Cloud native, FLYR leverages technologies including deep learning, an advanced form of AI. FLYR is helping airlines and hospitality businesses around the globe improve revenue performance, reduce cost, and modernize their e-commerce experience. Learn more at http://www.flyr.com.

    About Riyadh Air
    Riyadh Air, a PIF company, is a world-class airline. Launched in March 2023, the airline will be a digitally led, full-service airline that adopts the best global sustainability and safety practices across its advanced fleet of aircraft. Riyadh Air will equip its aircraft with the most advanced, state-of-the-art features with innovative, best-in-class cabin interiors and experiences, including next generation digital in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity solutions. Riyadh Air will connect guests to over 100 destinations around the world by 2030 through offering an exceptional guest experience with an authentic, warm Saudi hospitality at its heart. Website: http://www.riyadhair.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37141509-0fe2-4527-8863-7a52d06dcff6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why did Japan’s new leader trigger snap elections only a week after taking office? And what happens next?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Craig Mark, Adjunct Lecturer, Faculty of Economics, Hosei University

    Japan’s new prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, has been in the job for just over a week. But today, as had been widely expected, he dissolved Japan’s parliament, the Diet, triggering a snap election for later this month. It’s the fastest dissolution by a postwar leader in Japan.

    The typically short campaign will officially start on October 15, with election day on October 27.

    So, why is this election happening so soon after Ishiba took office? And what could happen next?

    Why hold elections now?

    Ishiba became prime minister on September 27 after finally winning the contest to be leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on his fifth attempt. He narrowly beat the ultra-nationalist Sanae Takaichi, denying her bid to become Japan’s first female prime minister.

    By holding a snap election for the House of Representatives, a year before it is required under the Constitution, Ishiba is hoping to catch the opposition parties off guard and secure a more solid mandate to pursue his policy agenda. He’s banking on the public rallying behind a new face and image for his party, following the unpopularity of former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

    The LDP should win next month’s election handily, despite the turbulence caused by recent scandals and leadership changes in the party. The LDP is still far ahead of the opposition in recent polling. A large number of people, however, remain uncommitted to any political party.

    The first approval rating poll for Ishiba’s new cabinet was also just over 50%. That’s lower than the polling for Kishida’s first cabinet three years ago. This indicates the public is not as enthusiastic for the new prime minister as the LDP might have hoped.

    The main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) has also just elected a new leader, former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda. It is hoping to boost its consistently low opinion poll ratings by attempting to project an image of reliability and stability.

    What is Ishiba promising?

    In his first policy statement to the Diet last week, Ishiba pledged to revitalise the economy, particularly through doubling subsidies and stimulus spending for regional areas. He also promised to address wage growth, which remains weak due to cost of living pressures. It has been made worse by the relatively weak yen.

    Ishiba also wants to boost investment in next-generation technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing. And he indicated he may support an increase in the corporate tax rate. This could tap the massive cash reserves of major corporations to fund regional revitalisation programs. It could also provide more support to families of young children to boost Japan’s sagging birth rate.

    Tax hikes would also be necessary to maintain the higher defence spending that began under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and continued under Kishida.

    To appease the conservative wing of his party, which had backed Takaichi in the LDP leadership contest, Ishiba has backtracked on several policy positions he had previously supported. This includes reducing Japan’s reliance on nuclear power, allowing women to keep their family names after marriage, legalising same-sex marriage, and encouraging the Bank of Japan to gradually increase interest rates.

    Ishiba also conceded his proposal to pursue an “Asian-style NATO” will have to remain a longer-term ambition, after officials from India and the US expressed doubts over the proposal.

    Ishiba has confirmed, after some initial uncertainty, that his party will not endorse ten Diet members in the election who were implicated in a slush fund scandal that had damaged Kishida’s government. These Diet members are mainly from the large conservative wing of the party, removing some internal opposition to the new prime minister.

    However, public doubts over Ishiba’s commitment to genuine party reform, as well as infighting from the resentful remaining members of the conservative wing, could also result in a drop in support for the LDP.

    Is there any hope for the opposition?

    If it fares poorly in the election, the LDP could be even more dependent on support from its coalition partner, the Komeito Party, to retain control of the lower house and remain in government.

    The Komeito Party is backed by the Buddhist Soka Gakkai religious movement. It currently has 32 members in the Diet, compared to 258 for the LDP.

    To even have a chance of forming a minority government, the main opposition CDP (which has 99 seats currently) will need to present an appealing alternative policy program, which it has so far been unable to do. Japan has not had a minority government since 1993.

    Should the LDP-Komeito coalition nevertheless drop below the 233 Diet members required to maintain a majority, the second-largest opposition party, the populist, right-wing Japan Innovation Party, could find itself holding the balance of power.

    Ishiba’s challenge in this early election is not only to win enough votes to retain government, but to be electorally successful enough to hold off his rivals from the conservative wing of the LDP. They will be seeking to exploit any future failures by Ishiba to pressure him to step down early.

    If that were to happen, Takaichi would likely be a leadership contender again.

    Craig Mark 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. Why did Japan’s new leader trigger snap elections only a week after taking office? And what happens next? – https://theconversation.com/why-did-japans-new-leader-trigger-snap-elections-only-a-week-after-taking-office-and-what-happens-next-240888

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four arrests and nine companies seized in anti-mafia operation in Italy and Brazil

    Source: Eurojust

    Eurojust supported this international operation, which hit a notorious mafia organisation. Investigations into the criminal organisation uncovered an elaborate scheme that was laundering money from Italy to Brazil, through several companies. The operation on 7 October led to the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of nine companies in Italy, Hong Kong and Brazil.

    The suspects arrested today were involved in the mafia organisation and used extortion, money laundering and the fraudulent transfer of valuables to facilitate important mafia organisations. The main suspect in the scheme set up multiple companies in Brazil using straw men and shell companies. The companies were used to hide the criminal gains of mafia organisations from Italy.

    The investigations revealed that other companies active in the property and hospitality sectors in Italy, Hong Kong and Brazil were part of this elaborate money-laundering scheme. During the operation, nine companies were seized, as well as money worth EUR 350 000.

    The operation on 7 October is the second action from a joint investigation team (JIT) set up at Eurojust between Italian and Brazilian authorities. The JIT has been investigating the mafia organisation since 2022. The first operation took place on 13 August and led to the arrest of a member of a mafia family and the freezing of assets worth EUR 50 million. 

    The Italian and Brazilian authorities have been investigating the activities of the mafia organisation since 2022 through a JIT, set up with the support of Eurojust. Their investigations uncovered the activities of the organisation in Switzerland and Hong Kong.

    The following authorities were involved in the actions:

    • Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office of Palermo – District Antimafia Directorate; Guardia di Finanza – G.I.C.O. (Organized Crime Investigative Group) of Palermo
    • Brazil: Federal Prosecutor’s Office of Rio Grande do Norte

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic and transport arrangements for triathlon event in Central and Wan Chai districts this weekend

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Transport Department (TD) today (October 9) reminded members of the public that the following special traffic and transport arrangements will be implemented in phases this weekend (October 12 and 13) to facilitate the holding of the triathlon event in Central and Wan Chai districts:
     
    1. Road closures

    From 10am on Saturday (October 12) to 6pm on Sunday (October 13), the section of Expo Drive between Legislative Council Road and Expo Drive Central will be temporarily closed; and
    From 1am on Sunday to about 6pm, road closure and diversion measures will be implemented in the vicinities of the Central Harbourfront and Wan Chai North (including Yiu Sing Street, Lung Wo Road, Lung Hop Street, Lung Tat Path, etc).

    2. Public transport arrangements
         To tie in with the road closure arrangements in the vicinities of Central and Wan Chai North, cross-harbour bus route No. H2 (to Central (Star Ferry)) will be temporarily diverted to operate via Connaught Road Central from 12.30pm on Sunday until the closed road is reopened to traffic at about 6pm.
     
         Members of the public are advised to make use of public transport services as far as possible to avoid traffic congestion and unnecessary delays. During the event, the TD and the Police will closely monitor the traffic situation. The Police may adjust the traffic arrangements subject to the prevailing crowd and traffic conditions in the areas. Members of the public should pay attention to the latest traffic news through radio, television or the “HKeMobility” mobile application.
          
         For details of the special traffic and public transport arrangements, members of the public may visit the TD website (www.td.gov.hk), its mobile application “HKeMobility” or passenger notices issued by the relevant public transport operators.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cluster of Rhinovirus/Enterovirus cases in Kwai Chung Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Cluster of Rhinovirus/Enterovirus cases in Kwai Chung Hospital
    Cluster of Rhinovirus/Enterovirus cases in Kwai Chung Hospital
    **************************************************************

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:     The spokesperson for Kwai Chung Hospital made the following announcement today (October 9):     Three female patients (aged 33 to 64) in a ward of learning disabilities have been presenting with fever or respiratory symptoms since October 2. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patients and their test results were positive for Rhinovirus/Enterovirus. The three patients are being treated in isolation and are in stable condition.     Enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted according to prevailing guidelines. Droplet and contact precautions, hand hygiene, cleaning and disinfection of the environment and equipment have also been strengthened.     The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation in the ward concerned. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for follow-up.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 9, 2024Issued at HKT 16:40

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers pre-recorded remarks at the 2nd China-ASEAN International Conference on Physical Fitness & Health Promotion

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr. Kao Kim Hourn today delivered pre-recorded remarks at the 2nd China-ASEAN International Conference on Physical Fitness and Health Promotion, held in Xi’an, China. In his remarks, Dr. Kao highlighted the importance of addressing aging population challenges and integrating innovative health technologies for overall wellness. The convening of the conference helps foster regional collaboration in improving health and wellness in communities across ASEAN and China.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers pre-recorded remarks at the 2nd China-ASEAN International Conference on Physical Fitness & Health Promotion appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 19th Meeting of Hong Kong/Guangdong Expert Group on Co-operation in Informatisation held in Guangzhou

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong/Guangdong Expert Group on Co-operation in Informatisation convened its 19th meeting in Guangzhou today (October 9) to deepen sustained co-operation in informatisation between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Guangdong Province.

         The Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, and the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Industry and Information Technology of Guangdong Province (GDDIIT), Mr Qu Xiaojie, reviewed the work progress and achievements of the Expert Group over the past year. They discussed and exchanged views on the work plan in the coming year, and agreed to continue strengthening co-operation in five areas of informatisation:

    1. accelerating development of a Guangdong-Hong Kong smart city cluster;
    2. deepening collaboration on cross-boundary e-commerce between Hong Kong and Guangdong;
    3. enhancing informatisation for cross-boundary customs clearance;
    4. continuing to deepen the innovation and technology (I&T) co-operation; and
    5. expediting co-operation in telecommunications business and infrastructure between Hong Kong and Guangdong.

         Mr Wong said in the meeting that “Guangdong’s Research Report on Development of New Quality Productive Forces 2023” revealed that Guangdong has established significant competitive advantages in three major sectors including artificial intelligence (AI), high-end manufacturing, and biomedicine. This resonated well with the emphasis of the Hong Kong I&T Development Blueprint that Hong Kong should focus on the development of I&T industries of strategic importance such as life and health technology, AI and data science, as well as advanced manufacturing and new energy technology industries. He hoped that the Digital Policy Office (DPO) and the GDDIIT could jointly explore avenues for promoting collaboration in the development of AI and digital industries between the two places.

         Officials from relevant departments, including the DPO, the Office of the Communications Authority, the Innovation and Technology Commission, the Marine Department, and Hong Kong Customs attended the meeting on behalf of the HKSAR Government. Mainland representatives who attended the meeting included officials from the GDDIIT, the Guangdong Provincial Administration of Government Service and Data, the Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province, the Radio and Television Administration of Guangdong Province, the Guangdong Communications Administration, the Guangdong Sub-Administration of the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China, the Department of Transport of Guangdong Province, the Department of Commerce of Guangdong Province, the Guangdong Provincial Development and Reform Commission, and the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee. Members of the HKSAR delegation also comprised representatives from research institutions and industry organisations, including the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute, the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre, the Cyberport, and GS1 Hong Kong.

         With the arrangement of the GDDIIT, the Hong Kong delegation visited the Guangzhou Digital Technology Group after the meeting to learn more about the enterprise’s developments on AI, smart city solutions and its exploration of data elements.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKMA and HKAB support ICAC’s launching of Banking Industry Integrity Charter

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

         The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Hong Kong Association of Banks (HKAB) fully support the Banking Industry Integrity Charter (Integrity Charter) introduced by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). The two organisations co-hosted today (October 9) a launching ceremony for the Integrity Charter together with the ICAC. Senior management from 30 banks, including those from major retail banks and private wealth management banks in Hong Kong, attended the ceremony. Representatives of the Chinese Banking Association of Hong Kong and the Private Wealth Management Association also attended the event (see Annex).
          
         The HKMA has long been encouraging banks to further their work in integrity building. The ICAC launched the Integrity Charter to create a platform for communication through public-private partnership, helping banks to implement effective integrity management and anti-corruption measures. The ICAC will provide anti-corruption recommendations tailored for the banking industry, share anti-corruption cases with the industry, and arrange regular thematic training for banks to further support the industry’s efforts in integrity building and promoting honest and responsible business practices. Banks participating in the Integrity Charter will commit to further strengthening their internal anti-corruption capabilities and promoting an integrity culture among their business partners.
          
         The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue; the Commissioner of the ICAC, Mr Woo Ying-ming; and the Chairman of the Hong Kong Association of Banks, Ms Luanne Lim, officiated at the ceremony to mark the launch of the Integrity Charter. During the event, the ICAC also showcased for the first time the logo specially designed for the Integrity Charter.
          
         In his welcome remarks, Mr Yue said, “Customer trust is an important pillar for the sustainable development of the banking industry. The professionalism and ethical conduct of banks and their frontline staff are key to building customer trust. The launch of the Integrity Charter by the ICAC is conducive to maintaining the stability of the Hong Kong banking system, and also helps to consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. It provides strong support for the Hong Kong banking industry to develop new markets, including the Middle East and Southeast Asia.”
          
         Mr Woo said in his welcome remarks, “Hong Kong is widely recognised as one of the most corruption-free places in the world and its financial sector is vibrant and thriving. The Integrity Charter combines the two advantages of Hong Kong – integrity and finance – underlining the banking industry’s commitment to integrity and enhancing its anti-corruption capabilities, to maintain and develop Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre.”
          
         Ms Lim said, “The Integrity Charter will help the public better understand banks’ determination to maintain a clean society and combat corruption collectively.” She encouraged members of the association to participate in the Integrity Charter.
          
         For further information about the Integrity Charter, please visit the webpage of the ICAC’s Corruption Prevention Advisory Service at cpas.icac.hk/EN/Info/TP_Library?cate_id=10046.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Family office collaboration unveiled

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau today announced the establishment of the Hong Kong Family Office Nexus, a strategic collaboration between the bureau and Bloomberg L.P.

    The partnership is aimed at attracting family offices from around the world to establish or expand their presence in Hong Kong, and at reinforcing the city’s status as a leading global asset and wealth management hub, the bureau said.

    Specifically, it will focus on four “pillars”, namely community building, knowledge sharing, technological support, and philanthropic collaboration. Together with Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy, the bureau will work with Bloomberg on various initiatives designed to bolster Hong Kong’s family office ecosystem.

    The bureau said the alliance was forged following a pivotal meeting in New York, in April, between Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui and Founder of Bloomberg L.P. & Bloomberg Philanthropies Michael Bloomberg. Their discussions centred on Hong Kong’s initiatives to establish itself as a global hub for family offices and philanthropy, and how the two parties might collaborate on achieving this goal.

    Mr Hui said: “Michael and I share a common vision to develop Hong Kong into a global centre for family offices and philanthropists. His insights, together with Bloomberg’s extensive international reach and its expertise in financial data and technology, will be invaluable to further enhance Hong Kong’s appeal to family offices worldwide.

    “We look forward to working closely with Bloomberg to create an environment where family offices and philanthropic initiatives will thrive.”

    Additionally, the bureau said Bloomberg will inaugurate a new wealth management summit in Hong Kong next March. With a view to sustaining and building on growing momentum in Hong Kong’s family office sector, the event will coincide with the bureau’s Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit. 

    Other Hong Kong Family Office Nexus initiatives will commence in phases from late 2024, the bureau stated.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CJ to attend 19th Conference of Chief Justices of Asia and the Pacific in Malaysia

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Judiciary:
     
         Chief Justice Andrew Cheung, Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal, will leave Hong Kong tomorrow (October 10) to attend the 19th Conference of Chief Justices of Asia and the Pacific in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

         The Conference will be held from October 11 to 14. It is a biennial event which seeks to provide the Chief Justices and senior judges of the Asia and Pacific region with a forum to discuss various issues of common interest to judiciaries in the region. It will cover a number of legal and judicial issues, including the rule of law, cross-border judicial co-operation and use of technology in court. Chief Justice Cheung will be the moderator-cum-speaker of a discussion session on international co-operation and cross-border issues. He will also attend the opening ceremony of the 37th LAWASIA Conference (Note), which will be held in Kuala Lumpur on October 13.

         Chief Justice Cheung will return to Hong Kong on October 14. During his absence, Mr Justice Roberto Alexandre Vieira Ribeiro, Permanent Judge of the Court of Final Appeal, will be the Acting Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal.
     
    Note: LAWASIA, or the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific, is a regional association of lawyers, judges, jurists and legal organisations. It holds annual conferences to provide a platform to facilitate the discussion of regional developments in various legal issues. All Chief Justices participating in the Conference of Chief Justices of Asia and the Pacific are, in line with tradition, invited to join part of the LAWASIA Conference.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AIS and Huawei Launch RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program to Expedite AN L4 Evolution

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: AIS and Huawei Launch RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program to Expedite AN L4 Evolution

    [Bangkok, Thailand, October 9, 2024] AIS Thailand and Huawei have jointly launched the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, a collaborative initiative aimed at driving wireless intelligence innovation and building robust, high-quality intelligent wireless networks.
    AIS is dedicated to realizing its strategic goal of Autonomous Networks (AN) L4 by 2025. In collaboration with Huawei, AIS has made substantial progress in wireless intelligence over the past two years, successfully developing applications like base station outage detection and compensation, and intelligent traffic burst optimization. These innovations have boosted network traffic and operational efficiency while significantly improving user experience and satisfaction. As a result, AIS has achieved its strategic goal of AN L3 in critical wireless scenarios.
    The RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program unites Huawei, telecom operators, and industry partners to develop innovative intelligent wireless network applications and business models through state-of-the-art intelligence technologies like foundation models and digital twins. The goal is to uncover new business opportunities and economic value in the wireless sector. As a vital partner, AIS is considered an important partner of this program, marking a significant step towards achieving the strategic vision of a Level 4 Autonomous Network, where the system can manage the network almost 100% on its own.
    AIS and Huawei have announced their intention to collaborate on three key subjects.
    First, they will work together on how to leverage decision-making intelligence technologies to deliver a reliable and unique experience for 5G and future 5G-A users.
    Second, how to apply digital twin technology to improve the ability of making decisions with multiple objectives in mind for intelligent energy saving features, achieving optimal energy saving while ensuring more performance counters.
    Third, how to use generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technologies to acquire network operation and maintenance expertise, diagnose issues, and offer expert advice for resolution and forecasting.
    Kitti Ngarmchatetanarom, Chief Technology Officer AIS said: “Through our partnership with Huawei, we have achieved significant advancements in the AN field over the past few years. By fully embracing the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, we have poised to further enhance our network operations, provide a tailored and exceptional user experience for each individual, accelerate our transition to AN L4, and evolve from a conventional communications service provider to a pioneering force in cognitive technology.”
    Calvin Zhao, President of Huawei Wireless Network MAE Product Line, stated: “Huawei has always been committed to working closely with operators and industry partners to improve network productivity and unlock new business prospects and value for the industry. Through the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, Huawei will team up with AIS to pioneer innovations in foundation models and digital twin technologies. Huawei will also support AIS in setting a new standard for AN L4 in 5G network deployment, driving the wireless intelligence revolution together.”
    The RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program has gained significant recognition from operators since its launch at MWC Shanghai in June 2024. With continued operator and industry partner involvement, this program will propel intelligent innovation in the industry, offering a robust technical framework and real-world case studies to accelerate the wireless AN sector’s progress toward L4 capabilities. This initiative will support the global development of intelligent wireless networks.
    AIS Thailand and Huawei have jointly launched the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AIS and Huawei Launch RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program to Expedite AN L4 Evolution Oct 09, 2024

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: AIS and Huawei Launch RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program to Expedite AN L4 Evolution
    Oct 09, 2024

    [Bangkok, Thailand, October 9, 2024] AIS Thailand and Huawei have jointly launched the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, a collaborative initiative aimed at driving wireless intelligence innovation and building robust, high-quality intelligent wireless networks.
    AIS is dedicated to realizing its strategic goal of Autonomous Networks (AN) L4 by 2025. In collaboration with Huawei, AIS has made substantial progress in wireless intelligence over the past two years, successfully developing applications like base station outage detection and compensation, and intelligent traffic burst optimization. These innovations have boosted network traffic and operational efficiency while significantly improving user experience and satisfaction. As a result, AIS has achieved its strategic goal of AN L3 in critical wireless scenarios.
    The RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program unites Huawei, telecom operators, and industry partners to develop innovative intelligent wireless network applications and business models through state-of-the-art intelligence technologies like foundation models and digital twins. The goal is to uncover new business opportunities and economic value in the wireless sector. As a vital partner, AIS is considered an important partner of this program, marking a significant step towards achieving the strategic vision of a Level 4 Autonomous Network, where the system can manage the network almost 100% on its own.
    AIS and Huawei have announced their intention to collaborate on three key subjects.
    First, they will work together on how to leverage decision-making intelligence technologies to deliver a reliable and unique experience for 5G and future 5G-A users.
    Second, how to apply digital twin technology to improve the ability of making decisions with multiple objectives in mind for intelligent energy saving features, achieving optimal energy saving while ensuring more performance counters.
    Third, how to use generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technologies to acquire network operation and maintenance expertise, diagnose issues, and offer expert advice for resolution and forecasting.
    Kitti Ngarmchatetanarom, Chief Technology Officer AIS said: “Through our partnership with Huawei, we have achieved significant advancements in the AN field over the past few years. By fully embracing the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, we have poised to further enhance our network operations, provide a tailored and exceptional user experience for each individual, accelerate our transition to AN L4, and evolve from a conventional communications service provider to a pioneering force in cognitive technology.”
    Calvin Zhao, President of Huawei Wireless Network MAE Product Line, stated: “Huawei has always been committed to working closely with operators and industry partners to improve network productivity and unlock new business prospects and value for the industry. Through the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program, Huawei will team up with AIS to pioneer innovations in foundation models and digital twin technologies. Huawei will also support AIS in setting a new standard for AN L4 in 5G network deployment, driving the wireless intelligence revolution together.”
    The RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program has gained significant recognition from operators since its launch at MWC Shanghai in June 2024. With continued operator and industry partner involvement, this program will propel intelligent innovation in the industry, offering a robust technical framework and real-world case studies to accelerate the wireless AN sector’s progress toward L4 capabilities. This initiative will support the global development of intelligent wireless networks.
    AIS Thailand and Huawei have jointly launched the RAN Intelligence Pioneers Program

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special meeting of Pest Control Steering Committee convened to enhance interdepartmental collaboration in preventing spread of dengue fever and rat Hepatitis E virus (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The interdepartmental Pest Control Steering Committee (PCSC) convened a special meeting today (October 9) to discuss the response measures for preventing the local transmission of dengue fever (DF) through imported cases, the work plan for mosquito control in the coming year, as well as follow-up actions in response to the recent human infection of rat Hepatitis E virus (HEV).
         
    Preventing the spread of DF

         In the meeting, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health explained to the attendees the details of the latest imported DF cases and the CHP’s risk assessment. As of October 3, the CHP has recorded a total of 77 DF cases this year, including 73 imported cases (12 from the Mainland) and four local cases. The number of imported DF cases this year has surpassed the 62 cases recorded last year, with 13 cases recorded within the two-week period from September 20 to October 3. The patients had traveled to Guangdong Province (Foshan (nine cases) and Shenzhen (one case)), India (two cases), and Nepal (one case) during the incubation periods. According to the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangdong Province recorded over 3 000 local DF cases in September, 1 764 local DF cases within the past week from September 30 to October 6, with the highest numbers of cases reported in Foshan, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Jiangmen and Zhongshan. The continued occurrence of DF cases outside Hong Kong, coupled with the frequent travel by residents to and from Guangdong, Hong Kong and other areas, resulted in an increased risk of importing DF cases into Hong Kong, posing a risk of local transmission.

         While the local gravidtrap index has shown a downward trend with the passing of the rainy season, in view of the DF situation in other areas, the Government not only instructed various bureaux and departments, as well as trade stakeholders, to strengthen territory-wide mosquito prevention and control work to prevent the local spread of DF in early October, but also discussed response measures with the bureaux and departments in today’s meeting.
         
    Mosquito control

         The representative from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) reported to the PCSC that the mosquito infestation this year continues to be under control, and the overall trend of the gravidtrap index for Aedes albopictus this year is similar to that of last year. The FEHD has also conducted site inspections with relevant departments, and provided them with professional advice and technical support to assist them in formulating and implementing effective anti-mosquito measures swiftly, as well as strengthening publicity and education in parallel. The departments will pay special attention to environments prone to mosquito breeding under their purviews, and proactively strengthen their mosquito preventive and control measures at places under their management, including carrying out regular inspections of the surrounding environment, eliminating potential mosquito breeding places, removing stagnant water, applying larvicides at appropriate locations, aptly placing more mosquito trapping devices and applying ultra-low volume foggers, etc. Looking ahead, the FEHD will continue to work closely with other departments and proactively take mosquito control actions, including eliminating potential mosquito breeding places, as well as the timely conducting of fogging operations in a concerted manner until the end of the rainy season. The departments will closely monitor the situation of mosquito infestation as reflected by the surveillance indices, and constantly update the list of mosquito infestation hotspots to adjust and plan their work based on the actual situation to ensure rapid and effective mosquito prevention and control efforts.

    Investigation of human infection of HEV
     
         Regarding the recent case of human infection of HEV, the CHP’s epidemiological investigations revealed that the patient resides in Hung Hom. She claimed that she did not have direct contact with rodents or rats, and had no travel history during the incubation period, indicating that this is a locally acquired infection.
          
         The CHP and the FEHD reported to the PCSC that in response to the above-mentioned HEV case, the FEHD has carried out follow-up work over the past two weeks, including visiting the patient’s residence and surrounding areas to conduct rodent infestation investigations, providing advice on rodent control measures to property management personnel; as well as inspecting the patient’s residence, the places she visited before onset of the disease and the surrounding public areas, and stepping up street washing, rodent prevention and control work.
          
         In the meeting, the FEHD reminded all bureaux and departments to diligently implement various rodent prevention and control measures in areas under their purview. Anti-rodent work requires co-operation from all sectors. The PCSC appealed to members of the public and all sectors to strengthen rodent prevention and control measures in their respective areas and tie in with the rodent prevention and control work of the Government to reduce the risk of HEV transmission.
          
         The Environment and Ecology Bureau will also meet with the trade later to gather the collective efforts of different sectors, promoting cross-sector, multidisciplinary and public participation in preventing the spread of DF and HEV.
          
         The meeting today was chaired by the Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong. Government bureaux, departments and organisations attending the meeting were the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department; the Architectural Services Department; the Buildings Department; the Civil Engineering and Development Department; the Development Bureau; the Department of Health; the Drainage Services Department; the Education Bureau; the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department; the Environmental Protection Department; the FEHD; the Government Property Agency; the Hospital Authority; the Home Affairs Department; the Housing Department; the Highways Department; the Information Services Department; the Lands Department; the Leisure and Cultural Services Department; the Marine Department; the Social Welfare Department; and the Water Supplies Department.   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –