NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI: Aimfinity Investment Corp. I Announces Extension of the Deadline for an Initial Business Combination to October 28, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Wilmington, Delaware, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Aimfinity Investment Corp. I (the “Company” or “AIMA”) (Nasdaq: AIMAU), a special purpose acquisition company incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company, today announced that, in order to extend the date by which the Company mush complete its initial business combination from October 28, 2024 to November 28, 2024, on October 28, 2024, I-Fa Chang, manager of the sponsor of the Company, has deposited into its trust account (the “Trust Account”) an aggregate of $60,000 (the “Monthly Extension Payment”).

    Pursuant to the Company’s third amended & restated memorandum and articles of association (“Current Charter”), effectively April 23, 2024, the Company may extend on a monthly basis from April 28, 2024 until January 28, 2025 or such an earlier date as may be determined by its board to complete a business combination by depositing the Monthly Extension Payment for each month into the Trust Account. This is the seventh of nine monthly extensions sought under the Current Charter of the Company.  

    About Aimfinity Investment Corp. I

    Aimfinity Investment Corp. I is a blank check company incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. The Company has not selected any business combination target and has not, nor has anyone on its behalf, initiated any substantive discussions, directly or indirectly, with any business combination target with respect to an initial business combination with it. While the Company will not be limited to a particular industry or geographic region in its identification and acquisition of a target company, it will not complete its initial business combination with a target that is headquartered in China (including Hong Kong and Macau) or conducts a majority of its business in China (including Hong Kong and Macau). 

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    As previously disclosed, on October 13, 2023, the Company entered into that certain Agreement and Plan of Merger (as may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “Merger Agreement”), by and between the Company, Docter Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), Aimfinity Investment Merger Sub I, a Cayman Islands exempted company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Parent (“Purchaser”), and Aimfinity Investment Merger Sub II, Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Purchaser (“Merger Sub”), pursuant to which the Company is proposing to enter into a business combination with Docter involving an reincorporation merger and an acquisition merger. This press release does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the proposed business combination and is not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the business combination. AIMA’s stockholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the proxy statement/prospectus and the amendments thereto and other documents filed in connection with the proposed business combination, as these materials will contain important information about AIMA, Purchaser or Docter, and the proposed business combination. When available, the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials for the proposed business combination will be mailed to stockholders of AIMA as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed business combination. Such stockholders will also be able to obtain copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), without charge, once available, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to AIMA’s principal office at 221 W 9th St, PMB 235 Wilmington, Delaware 19801.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, both as amended. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the pending transactions described herein, and the parties’ perspectives and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the proposed transaction, including the anticipated initial enterprise value and post-closing equity value, the benefits of the proposed transaction, integration plans, expected synergies and revenue opportunities, anticipated future financial and operating performance and results, including estimates for growth, the expected management and governance of the combined company, and the expected timing of the transactions. The words “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan” and similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, assumptions (including assumptions about general economic, market, industry and operational factors), known or unknown, which could cause the actual results to vary materially from those indicated or anticipated.

    Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: (i) risks related to the expected timing and likelihood of completion of the pending business combination, including the risk that the transaction may not close due to one or more closing conditions to the transaction not being satisfied or waived, such as regulatory approvals not being obtained, on a timely basis or otherwise, or that a governmental entity prohibited, delayed or refused to grant approval for the consummation of the transaction or required certain conditions, limitations or restrictions in connection with such approvals; (ii) risks related to the ability of AIMA and Docter to successfully integrate the businesses; (iii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the applicable transaction agreements; (iv) the risk that there may be a material adverse change with respect to the financial position, performance, operations or prospects of AIMA or Docter; (v) risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed transaction; (vi) the risk that any announcements relating to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of AIMA’s securities; (vii) the risk that the proposed transaction and its announcement could have an adverse effect on the ability of Docter to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their suppliers and customers and on their operating results and businesses generally; (viii): risks relating to the medical device industry, including but not limited to governmental regulatory and enforcement changes, market competitions, competitive product and pricing activity; and (ix) risks relating to the combined company’s ability to enhance its products and services, execute its business strategy, expand its customer base and maintain stable relationship with its business partners.

    A further list and description of risks and uncertainties can be found in the prospectus filed on April 26, 2022 relating to AIMA’s initial public offering, the annual report of AIMA on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended on December 31, 2022, filed on April 17, 2023, and in the Registration Statement/proxy statement that will be filed with the SEC by AIMA and/or its affiliates in connection with the proposed transactions, and other documents that the parties may file or furnish with the SEC, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate only to the date they were made, and Aimfinity, Docter, and their subsidiaries undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of any potential transaction and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of AIMA, Purchaser or Docter, nor shall there be any sale of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    AIMA, Docter, and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management, and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of AIMA’s shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of AIMA’s shareholders in connection with the proposed business combination will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus on Form F-4 to be filed with the SEC.

    Contact Information:

    Aimfinity Investment Corp. I
    I-Fa Chang
    Chief Executive Officer
    ceo@aimfinityspac.com
    (425) 365-2933
    221 W 9th St, PMB 235
    Wilmington, Delaware 19801

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Sets New Benchmark in TV Security With FIPS 140-3 Certification

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics today announced that its proprietary cryptography module, Samsung CryptoCore,1 has earned the prestigious FIPS 140-3 certification2 from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This certification underscores Samsung’s commitment to providing industry-leading security and data protection for Smart TV users.
     
    “As home entertainment systems become more connected, it becomes critical for technology companies to safeguard the personal data that enables the seamless connectivity enjoyed by so many,” said Yongjae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of the R&D Team, Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “By integrating the FIPS 140-3-certified CryptoCore into our Smart TVs, Samsung is taking our commitment to secure home entertainment a step further and ensuring that our users can freely experience the value of our products.”
     
    Beginning in 2025, Samsung CryptoCore will be fully integrated into Tizen OS,3 Samsung’s Smart TV operating system, enhancing the security of key products such as TVs, monitors and digital signage. With Samsung CryptoCore embedded in Tizen OS, personal data linked to Samsung accounts will be securely encrypted, SmartThings authentication information will be protected from external hacking threats and content viewed on TVs will benefit from enhanced copyright protection.
     
    Since 2015, Samsung has equipped its Smart TVs with Samsung Knox,4 a security platform that has earned Common Criteria (CC) certification5 for 10 consecutive years. But with its newly acquired FIPS 140-3 certification, Samsung has strengthened its defenses against hacking and data breaches even further, proactively protecting personal information with advanced encryption technology.
     
    Recognized by governments in 10 countries,6 the FIPS 140-3 certification requires comprehensive testing of cryptographic modules to ensure their security, integrity and reliability. For users, this means Samsung Smart TVs offer cutting-edge protection against privacy breaches, allowing them to enjoy their content, connect smart devices and engage with IoT services securely and without concerns.
     

     
    1 Samsung CryptoCore is a software library that encrypts and decrypts data during both transmission and storage.2 Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140-3 covers the security requirements for cryptographic modules.3 Tizen OS 9.0.4 Samsung Knox provides privacy protection on its Smart TVs through features like Tizen OS Monitoring, Phishing Site Blocking and Knox Vault. Knox Vault is available only on the QN900D and QN800D models.5 Common Criteria (CC) certification is a global security standard recognized by 31 countries for IT product integrity.6 Recognized in the United States, Canada, UK, Germany, France, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Ports Australia conference

    Source: Australian Ministers for Infrastructure and Transport

    **CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY**

    As always, I begin by acknowledging the Muwinina People as the custodians of this land. We acknowledge and pay our respects to all Tasmanian Aboriginal Communities.

    Tasmania is one of the most beautiful places in our nation and a fitting setting for the Ports Australia Conference.

    We recognise the ongoing custodianship that Indigenous Australians have shown towards these lands and I extend this respect to all First Nations people joining us today.

    Thank you as well to Mike for that kind introduction, and to Stewart, your Chair, thank you very much for the invitation and for all the work that you do throughout the course of the year.

    It is wonderful to see so many public and private leaders from around the world come together.

    I would also like to extend a particular welcome to the Minister for Infrastructure for the Kingdom of Tonga.

    Like Australia, your nation relies on shipping. It is wonderful to have you here.

    I also want to recognise Dr Patrick Verhoeven, the Managing Director of the International Association of Ports and Harbours, and Jens Meier, the CEO of Hamburg Port Authority, who have travelled such a long way.

    Your presence underlines the inherently global nature of this industry, and I hope you enjoy your time here in our beautiful country.

    This is in fact my second time in Tasmania in the last two weeks. 

    Last week I was in the north, this week I’m in the south.

    On both these visits, I have had the pleasure of engaging with Tasmania’s proud maritime industry.

    Last week, I was in Burnie to commission the new shiploader – a project which replaced an essential piece of infrastructure that had been in place for five decades.

    The new shiploader doubles the capacity of the old, and can serve ships up to Panamax size, creating local jobs and growing local industry.

    It is a project that pays tribute to both the maritime past and future of this great state, as well as setting the local economy up for decades of success to come.

    It also speaks to how essential maritime logistics are to our day-to-day lives.

    At the port I could see woodchips going to China, as well as cars and supermarket produce coming into the state.

    It is too easy to miss the magic that defines our modern world, but when you take even a moment to think about it, it is truly extraordinary. 

    That port in Burnie on the north coast of Tasmania is connected to a global network that stretches to every corner of our planet. 

    Everything that we rely on, relies in turn on shipping – which is why it is such a pleasure to be here today with some of the many, many hardworking people who underpin this essential industry.

    Events like these are key to fostering a strong, robust sector – and year after year, Ports Australia does a wonderful job bringing you together and advocating for your industry.

    I stand here today as a minister in a government that knows that ports are a primary driver of our economy and workforce. 

    As well as facilitating international trade and the movement of goods throughout the region, our ports are strategic assets and critical infrastructure.

    They are vital to sustaining our island nation. 

    The most recent report from Ports Australia shows exactly this. 

    Ports move an overwhelming 99 per cent of Australia’s international trade by volume, and importantly, over 694,000 local jobs are facilitated by Australia’s port activities. 

    This works out to a staggering one in every 20 jobs across the nation. 

    Container transport has seen a huge increase.

    As have vehicle imports. 

    The most recent numbers show that cruise ships have soared to 18% higher than pre-pandemic numbers.

    You take our goods to the world, and you bring the world to us.

    Of course, these numbers, while good news, bring pressures of their own. 

    This story of growth underlines the need to ensure that our infrastructure, our investments and our policies are positioned to support a sustainable, reliable and productive supply chain. 

    That’s why our government is making investments like those at the Port of Burnie, and it is also why my department led a review earlier this year into the national freight and supply chain strategy. 

    In total, 71 submissions were received from a variety of stakeholders, including from maritime and associated peak bodies.

    Of course, I acknowledge and thank Ports Australia for their submission and engagement throughout the Review process.  

    The review found that while the foundations of the strategy remain strong, productivity, resilience, decarbonisation and data should be strengthened in the strategy and new National Action Plan.

    We are already doing the work of refreshing the strategy and action plan to address the findings of the review, and I look forward to updating you further in due course.

    But, of course, the findings of the review touch on challenges that are faced across our entire economy and society – none more so than the need to act to mitigate climate change. 

    The Albanese Government is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. 

    Achieving these ambitious economy-wide targets will require concerted action across all sectors, including this one. 

    Right now, transport contributes 21 percent of Australia’s direct emissions. 

    Adding to that challenge, transport is one of the hardest sectors to abate.

    So, our work here is vital.

    That is why we released the Transport Net Zero Roadmap for consultation earlier this year. 

    While that roadmap covered all modes of transport, it was of particular importance for the maritime sector.

    As we know, decarbonisation will rely on a combination of low carbon liquid fuels (LCLFs), hydrogen, electrification and efficiency improvements.

    Of these, LCLFs offer the clearest pathway for decarbonisation within liquid fuel-reliant sectors that cannot readily electrify in the near-term. 

    This includes maritime, aviation, heavy vehicle and rail, as well as mining, manufacturing and agricultural sectors.

    The bad news is that we need a lot of liquid fuels, but the good news is that Australia is well-placed with comparative advantages in the production of LCLFs: 

    • We have rich renewable energy resources; 
    • We use advanced farming practices that embody low carbon emissions;  
    • We are able to achieve economies of scale;
    • We have significant refining and port infrastructure; 
    • And we have the ability to both enable and encourage domestic fuel consumption, as well as support export capability.

    As part of our Future Made in Australia agenda, the Government is fast-tracking support for an LCLF industry.

    The government announced $18.5 million as part of the recent Budget, to support a domestic LCLF industry through the development of a certification scheme for those fuels.

    And $1.7 billion over the next ten years will go towards a Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund.

    This funding will be used in part to support nascent LCLF production technologies through research and development, to help de-risk developments, and to attract private sector investment.

    And we will continue to work with industry on further steps as needed.

    By successfully building a local LCLF industry we will increase fuel security, strengthen regional economies, diversify income streams for farmers, and meet our decarbonisation objectives – it’s hard to find a bigger win-win than that. 

    To speak even more specifically to the challenges of this sector, we’ve created a Maritime Emission Reduction National Action Plan, the MERNAP for short.

    The MERNAP aims to support Australia’s national emissions reduction targets, contribute to the global decarbonisation of shipping, and future-proof the Australian maritime sector to avoid costly and disruptive transitions later, ensuring an equitable transition, particularly for the maritime workforce, safeguarding jobs and skills for the future.

    The vision is that by 2050, Australia will fully leverage the global maritime decarbonisation transition, benefiting our ports, vessels, and the broader energy sector. 

    This will showcase Australia’s unique comparative advantages while supporting a fair and balanced transition for the industry.

    The MERNAP Consultative Group has played a vital role in shaping this action plan, and I’d like to acknowledge those here today, including: Maritime Industry Australia Limited, the Maritime Union of Australia, and of course, Ports Australia.

    To support the development of MERNAP, we undertook extensive public consultations that revealed to us that the future of the maritime sector will be powered by multiple energy sources, all of which will require new skills, and see us facing new challenges around technology readiness for alternative fuels. 

    Safety, operational efficiencies, and strong partnerships across the value chain will be critical to driving this transition.

    The Albanese Government remains committed to ensuring that Australia’s maritime industry is prepared for the future, ready to contribute to our national emissions targets, and able to thrive in a decarbonised global economy – including through initiatives like Green Shipping Corridors – partnering with nations, such as New Zealand, Singapore and South Korea. 

    I have focused a lot on what fuels our maritime sector, but there is, of course, an even more important element – the people who run it.

    I am proud to say that our plan to establish a Strategic Fleet is underway. 

    This fleet will provide assistance in times of crisis, supply chain disruption, or natural disaster. And it will support industries reliant on shipping, such as heavy manufacturing.

    Tenders to participate in the Strategic Fleet Pilot will close on 29 November. 

    Through this process, three vessels that will be privately owned and commercially operated will be selected for the pilot. 

    This is a major step towards fulfilling our commitment to establish a Strategic Fleet of up to twelve Australian flagged and crewed vessels. 

    This will strengthen our sovereign maritime capabilities while supporting our maritime workforce. 

    The creation of a strategic fleet is a central government policy that will shape our workforce for decades to come. 

    I strongly encourage all interested parties to take part in this process and to consider what role they can play.

    The tender process is being managed by my Department, which is seeking innovative tenders that will deliver the objectives of the Pilot Program. 

    These include providing the Commonwealth with certainty of access to the strategic fleet, to move cargo in times of need, crisis or national emergency. And to support of the needs of Defence —including in training and logistical capacities.

    The Albanese Government is seeking to have pilot vessels on the water as soon as possible.

    While it is not a silver bullet to solve all of the issues of our current and emerging seafarer shortage, the Strategic Fleet and the work being undertaken by Industry Skills Australia through the Maritime Industry Workforce Plan, will support our maritime workforce by increasing the amount of Australian qualified seafarers at a time of a growing global shortage. 

    The independent reviews of the Shipping Registration Act and the Coastal Trading Act being conducted by Ms Lynelle Briggs AO and Emeritus Professor Nicholas Gaskell will also contribute to the modernisation of Australia’s shipping regulatory framework, ensuring the Acts are fit for purpose and support the long-term sustainability of an Australian Maritime Strategic Fleet, and the maritime industry more broadly. 

    Public consultation has commenced and I encourage you all to make your voices heard.

    As you can see, there is a lot to do in your sector and we are a government that is determined to get on with doing it.

    The reforms the Albanese Government is delivering will do our part to support a productive, resilient supply chain, while positioning Australia to thrive in the new net zero economy.

    Thank you for having me, and all the best with the rest of your conference.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at Cathay Pacific Airways Cocktail Reception in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (English only) (with photo/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Cathay Pacific Airways Cocktail Reception in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia today (October 29, Riyadh time):Lavinia (Chief Customer and Commercial Officer of Cathay Pacific, Ms Lavinia Lau), ladies and gentlemen,     Good evening. I am delighted to be here, with you, tonight, just one day after the exhilarating inaugural flight of Cathay Pacific’s relaunched Hong Kong to Riyadh service.     For that, for reconnecting Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia through this vital new route, and the huge potential it brings, I am grateful to Cathay Pacific. Your dedication to excellence in service is internationally recognised. And this flight resumption is a clear testament to Cathay’s commitment to Hong Kong and our strategic development.     I can tell you that the high-powered delegation I’ve brought with me to Riyadh is equally exciting. They count more than 100 Hong Kong financial, business and entrepreneurial leaders, eager to connect with Saudi business. With you.     During our three-day stay here in Riyadh, we’re meeting with business, finance and technology companies, with investors and government leaders, too. Our goal is clear: to expand ties with Saudi Arabia, building friendship and exploring the many mutually beneficial collaboration opportunities this renewed connection will surely create.     The new service, in short, marks a new chapter for the ever-growing ties between our two cities, our two regions.     It helps, and enormously, that Hong Kong is the global gateway to China. We are also part of China’s “Air Silk Road” initiative, seeking to enhance connectivity, economic and trade cooperation, as well as cultural exchange with countries and regions along the Belt and Road.     Saudi Arabia sits at the crossroad between three continents. The resumption of flights underlines the strategic importance of the country’s location, and will boost economic, cultural, business and people-to-people ties between Saudi Arabia and China, Hong Kong included; and all the more so, between the East and West.     With this reinstated service, I know the people of Hong Kong would be eager to dive into all sorts of adventures around different Saudi cities, your timeless culture, deserts, World Heritage sites and so much more. And, yes, Hong Kong also looks forward to welcoming you to Asia’s world city, the East meets West centre of international cultural exchange. And good times, too.     Ladies and gentlemen, please join me now in a toast: to Cathay Pacific, to the continuing growth of Hong Kong-Saudi ties and to the promising future that awaits our two economies and peoples.     I know you will enjoy this very special evening.     Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS leads Hong Kong delegation to Future Investment Initiative (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FS leads Hong Kong delegation to Future Investment Initiative (with photos/video)
    FS leads Hong Kong delegation to Future Investment Initiative (with photos/video)
    *********************************************************************************

         ​The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan yesterday (October 29, Riyadh time) led a delegation from the financial and innovation sectors on a visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.     Mr Chan, along with the delegation, attended the first day of the 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII). He was one of the speakers in the panel discussion titled “Is the Global South Now the Engine of Growth?”. This session focused on how the Global South could promote economic innovation, build resilience, and maintain growth while addressing the complexities of the international environment and the challenges of climate change.     During the discussion, Mr Chan stated that as an international financial centre, Hong Kong is actively promoting the development of green finance and green technology. He emphasised that Hong Kong could provide capital support for infrastructure and green projects in the Global South and guide funding to new projects through innovative financial products, such as securitised loans.     In response to a question, Mr Chan noted that a number of countries in the Global South are considering how to manage risks related to their trade and reserve currencies. Some are increasingly using their own currencies more for settlements. He mentioned that Hong Kong is collaborating with multiple central banks to launch the Project mBridge, aiming for faster, more cost effective, and more secure cross-border payments and settlements. He also pointed out that digitalisation and green transformation will be significant trends for the future development of the Global South, and investing in suitable projects in these areas will yield long-term returns. Furthermore, the development of fintech will help make financial services more accessible and inclusive, facilitating leapfrog development for developing countries. Hong Kong can contribute to the Global South in these areas.     During the FII, Mr Chan witnessed, together with the Minister of Investment of Saudi Arabia, Mr Khalid Al-Falih, the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement between the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and Beta Lab, a venture capital firm focused on deep technology in Saudi Arabia. Both parties will share resources, recommend startups to each other, facilitate connections within their startup networks, and jointly engage in market promotion and events.     A number of delegation members also spoke at various sessions of the FII, promoting Hong Kong’s unique advantages as a “super connector” and “super value-adder,” and how it can connect the Mainland and global capital markets and investors in multiple ways.     In the evening, Mr Chan and the delegation members attended a reception hosted by the Cathay Pacific; as well as a reception organised by the Hang Seng Investment Management to celebrate the upcoming listing of its exchange-traded fund.     Mr Chan will continue his visit in Riyadh today (October 30, Riyadh time).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 9:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Impact of Climate Risk on Fiscal Space: Do Political Stability and Financial Development Matter?

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The findings highlight the impact on economies most vulnerable to climate change. The results suggest that factors such as political stability and financial development have the potential to alleviate these effects. It reveals that the influence of climate risk on fiscal capacity is more significant in situations of limited fiscal space. Implementing fiscal consolidation emerges as a crucial factor in mitigating the negative impact of climate risks on fiscal capacity, with political stability and financial development also playing pivotal roles.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul Attends Nava Diwali Festival

    Source: US State of New York

    Earlier today, Governor Hochul delivered remarks and attended the Nava Diwali Festival to honor and celebrate Diwali, the largest holiday that takes place across South Asia and Indo-Caribbean communities each year in the fall.

    VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Thank you, Mr. President. It’s always great to be back here celebrating this most beautiful of holidays. I want to thank Melinda Katz for being one of the hosts every year, inviting us and all of the elected officials, my partners in government. But this is about the community. This is about the community coming together at a time when it seems like we’re so divided, that the politics is so ugly and people are not feeling united in one cause.

    This candle lighting reminds us that we are together in this journey. That light will always prevail over darkness. And goodness over evil. And if we keep those values in mind, we will persevere and prevail over all the negativity that seems to permeate our politics and our society today. So, let us leave here refreshed and renewed in the belief that lightness – light will prevail, and goodness will prevail over evil.

    Those are such important values to all of us in this wonderful community. I thank all of you for the honor of being your Governor. Thank you everyone. Thank you to all of our elected officials as well.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Japan: Momentum for marriage equality grows with Tokyo High Court ruling

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In response to today’s Tokyo High Court ruling recognizing the unconstitutionality of Japan’s ban on same-sex marriage, Amnesty International’s East Asia Researcher Boram Jang said:

    “This decision marks a critical step towards marriage equality in Japan and offers renewed hope to same-sex couples across the country.

    “This case is also a reminder of the lengthy and fragmented legal battles couples must endure to exercise rights to equality that should already be protected. It is an injustice that weighs heavily on their lives.

    “The Japanese government must take action to legalize same-sex marriage across the country. It is time to introduce national legislation that brings marriage equality to everyone in Japan, rather than relying on inconsistent and inadequate responses at the local government level. All couples, no matter their gender or sexual orientation, deserve the same legal rights, protections, and the dignity that comes with recognition under the law.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI China: China renews anti-dumping duties on imported ethanolamines

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) on Tuesday announced its decision to renew anti-dumping duties on ethanolamines imported from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

    The duties were initially introduced in 2018 for a period of five years as such imports had caused substantial damage to China’s domestic industry.

    Following the end of the term last year, the MOC launched investigations to review the anti-dumping at the request of the domestic industry.

    The MOC said in a ruling that if the duties were terminated, the dumping practice and related damage would likely continue or reoccur.

    The duties will be levied for another five years starting Wednesday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ARJ21 jetliner completes its longest commercial route flight

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An ARJ21 jetliner is pictured at Wuhan Tianhe International Airport in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province, Oct. 25, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s homegrown regional jetliner, the ARJ21, successfully completed its longest commercial route flight Tuesday, landing in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou from Manado, Indonesia.

    According to the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC), this is also the first China-bound international flight operated by an overseas airline using the Chinese aircraft.

    Starting from the end of November, there will be a daily round trip between the two cities, up from three round trips per week in the initial stage, all operated by TransNusa of Indonesia using the ARJ21 aircraft.

    TransNusa has received three ARJ21 aircraft from COMAC since December 2022 and opened eight routes with ARJ21.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Myanmar mark 10 years of biodiversity conservation partnership

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China and Myanmar celebrated a decade of collaboration in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development at a ceremony held in Nay Pyi Taw on Tuesday.

    The event highlighted a decade of commitment, collaboration and collective actions of China and Myanmar towards biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

    Deputy Minister for Myanmar’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation U Min Thu expressed gratitude to the Chinese Academy of Sciences for its financial and technical support to Myanmar for biodiversity conservation and cooperation research.

    He noted that the decade of Myanmar-China cooperation has provided valuable opportunities and experiences for mutual learning in biodiversity conservation.

    Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar Zheng Zhihong said that over the past 10 years, China-Myanmar cooperation on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development has achieved fruitful results. China and Myanmar have established the Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, carried out nine large-scale joint scientific expeditions, collected and recorded tens of thousands of species, and published more than 100 papers.

    Relying on the Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, the two sides have helped Myanmar cultivate scientific research talent, and contributed to Myanmar’s economic development and people’s livelihood, he added.

    By building on the solid foundation of the past decade, the two countries will further strengthen cooperation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, making greater contributions to the sustainable development of the two countries, especially Myanmar, the minister counselor said.

    Gong Haihua, director of the Division of Asian and African Affairs, the International Cooperation Bureau of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said that in the past years, the two sides witnessed successful cooperation in many areas, and she expressed hope that more fruitful cooperation will be carried out in the future.

    About 100 participants, including officials and researchers from the two countries, attended the event. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Venom’ boosts Chinese box office as hopes rise for sustained market heat

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    “I never thought Venom was anything more than a villain, but this film moved me to tears,” one Weibo user remarked, reflecting on the unexpectedly strong response to “Venom: The Last Dance.”

    The latest installment in Sony’s “Venom” franchise debuted in China on Oct. 23, striking an emotional chord with local audiences. Maroon 5’s “Memories” scored the film’s reflective moments, adding to its impact on moviegoers.

    Opening during what is typically a quiet period for China’s box office — between the National Day holiday in early October and the end-of-year moviegoing period, which begins in late November — “Venom: The Last Dance” defied seasonal expectations and drove total box office revenue for Oct. 21-27 to 620 million yuan (about 87 million U.S. dollars). According to ticketing platform Maoyan, “Venom: The Last Dance” alone raked in 326 million yuan over the course of the week, more than 50 percent of the overall figure.

    Maoyan projects the film to end its China box office run with over 580 million yuan in earnings.

    Sony Pictures took to Chinese social media to celebrate the film’s success, highlighting its impressive five-day run at the top of China’s daily box office — a rare feat for Hollywood releases in recent years.

    While the influence of Hollywood films has generally waned in China compared to a decade ago, the success of “Venom” suggests certain U.S. franchise titles can still capture a diverse range of viewers.

    This can also be seen in the mixed reception other recent Hollywood releases have received in China. “Joker: Folie à Deux,” which premiered on Oct. 16, hasn’t matched the box office impact of its 2019 predecessor but has nevertheless found an audience in fans of more complex narratives. While some viewers have found the sequel’s introspective tone to be a departure from the first installment, others have lauded it as a bold, deconstructed take on the Joker mythos.

    The real test now is whether “Venom” can sustain its momentum through the schedule of upcoming releases.

    Dong Wenxin, a film critic and cinema manager, has noted the surprising strength of the post-holiday period, which is often considered a cold season for the box office. “Is this truly a cold season?” Dong asked, noting that strong releases can keep theaters busy even in typically quiet months.

    She expressed hope that “Cesium Fallout,” a disaster film starring Hong Kong veteran actor Andy Lau and set for release on Nov. 1, could be a candidate to sustain the market heat following “Venom.”

    Hollywood’s broader performance in China this year has been mixed, with “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” and “Alien: Romulus” currently standing as the only two U.S. films in the annual top 12, grossing close to 960 million and 790 million yuan, respectively.

    Industry watchers are now setting their sights on the end-of-year moviegoing period, which begins on Nov. 22, with Dwayne Johnson’s “Red One” scheduled to arrive in theaters on Nov. 8.

    Johnson’s name recognition in China, cemented by his role in the “Fast & Furious” film series, has generated widespread anticipation for “Red One.” “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw,” the last installment in the blockbuster franchise to feature the U.S. actor, earned 1.4 billion yuan in China in 2019.

    Despite no longer being a guaranteed box office draw, Hollywood titles still provide the variety that keeps China’s theatrical landscape dynamic. As 2024 enters its final quarter, industry insiders are cautiously optimistic that a well-curated slate can maintain momentum, offering a promising close to the year.

    To date, China’s 2024 box office has totaled 38.3 billion yuan — a 22 percent drop from the same period last year, underscoring the high stakes for Hollywood and domestic releases alike in the months ahead. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Minister for Manpower of Singapore

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this morning met with Singapore’s Minister for Manpower and the host of the 28th ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Meeting (ALMM) Dr. Tan See Leng in Singapore. Dr. Kao congratulated Singapore and reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s full support for Singapore’s ALMM Chairmanship in 2024-2026. They also exchanged views on the Chair’s priorities, including the development of the post-2025 ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Work Programme and strategies to strengthen ALMM’s role in the ASEAN Community building efforts.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Minister for Manpower of Singapore appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SEE attends seminar on ecological and environmental protection of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao GBA (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, attended a seminar in Shenzhen yesterday (October 29) held by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) on the ecological and environmental protection work of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). The seminar aimed to deepen the promotion of ecological and environmental protection work in the GBA, exchange related major work progress and suggestions among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, and explore measures to support the GBA in accelerating the building of an international first-class beautiful bay area. The Secretary of the Leading Party Members Group of the MEE, Mr Sun Jinlong, also attended and gave an important speech at the seminar.
     
         During the seminar, Mr Tse highlighted four key areas regarding the initiatives and strategies of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) in promoting ecological and environmental protection in the GBA. These include enhancing environmental governance to build a beautiful Hong Kong, promoting green and low-carbon transformation, green transportation development, and advocating for the building of “Zero-waste City.”
     
         Mr Tse said, “Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao have effective co-ordination mechanisms in various environmental aspects to promote ecological and environmental protection in the GBA. The Hong Kong SAR will continue to actively participate and co-operate, contributing to the development of picturesque landscapes and a beautiful bay area. Looking ahead, we look forward to collaborating with Mainland cities in the GBA to jointly promote a circular economy, facilitate green transformation and explore collaborative opportunities for the development of green industries in the GBA with a view to supporting the high-quality development of the entire GBA.”
     
         Attendees of today’s seminar included representatives from the Hong Kong and Macao work office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the People’s Government of Guangdong Province, the MEE, the Department of Ecology and Environment of Guangdong Province, the Ecology and Environment Bureau of Shenzhen, Zhuhai and Guangzhou Municipalities and the Environmental Protection Bureau of the Macao SAR. The Permanent Secretary for Environment and Ecology (Environment), Miss Janice Tse, and the Director of Environmental Protection, Dr Samuel Chui, also attended the seminar.
     
         Mr Tse returned to Hong Kong in the afternoon.      

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Approves $500 Million Loan to Support Climate and Disaster Resilience in Pakistan

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (29 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $500 million policy-based loan to support climate change and disaster risk reduction and resilience in Pakistan.

    The Climate and Disaster Resilience Enhancement Program (CDREP) will strengthen Pakistan’s institutional capacity for planning, preparedness, and response; increase inclusive investment in disaster risk reduction and climate resilience; and support the scale up of disaster risk financing using a risk-layered approach.

    Pakistan is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and disasters triggered by natural hazards in Asia and the Pacific. Average losses from disaster events exceed $2 billion per year. Women and other vulnerable groups are disproportionately affected by climate change and disaster events.

    “This program builds on ADB’s longstanding work in Pakistan to understand and reduce climate and disaster risks and support effective disaster response,” said ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov. “We are proud to support an integrated and comprehensive approach to climate and disaster risk management, including a portfolio of disaster risk financing instruments for timely and adequate funding for disaster response.”

    The program supports enhanced capacity for disaster risk mapping and modeling for investment and development decisions. It enhances coordination for disaster monitoring and response. It supports enhanced planning and prioritization of gender-sensitive and resilient public investments, including integrated flood risk management and nature-based solutions. 

    The program supports mobilization of climate finance from public and private sources. This includes issuance of a domestic green sukuk (Islamic bond). A key innovation of the program is the use of ADB’s Contingent Disaster Financing option for the first time in the Central and West Asia region. This will provide quick disbursing budget support in the event of a disaster.

    The program will support the establishment of a solidarity fund to facilitate the uptake of risk transfer solutions such as agriculture insurance. The program also supports shock-responsive social protection to deliver cash assistance in the event of a disaster.

    ADB has also approved a technical assistance grant of $1 million to support implementation of the program.

    Pakistan was a founding member of ADB. Since 1966, ADB has committed over $52 billion in public and private sector loans, grants, and other forms of financing to promote inclusive economic growth in Pakistan and improve the country’s infrastructure, energy and food security, transport networks, and social services.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Appoints New Country Director for Bhutan

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    THIMPHU, BHUTAN (29 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Sonomi Tanaka as its new Country Director for Bhutan.

    Ms. Tanaka will lead ADB’s operations in Bhutan and policy dialogue with the government, development partners, and other stakeholders. She will implement the newly approved country partnership strategy (CPS) 2024–2028 for Bhutan which aligns closely with the 13th Five-Year Plan of the government that aims to develop Bhutan into a sustainable and prosperous economy.

    “I look forward to working closely with the government and the people of Bhutan to reinforce Bhutan’s development efforts by strengthening public sector management, enabling private sector development, building climate-adaptive and resilient infrastructure, and enhancing human capital development to increase youth employability,” said Ms. Tanaka.

    Ms. Tanaka has over 30 years of professional experience, including 25 years with the ADB. In 2020, she was appointed as Country Director of ADB’s Resident Mission in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, where she led the formulation of the CPS 2024-2028 and advanced critical policy reforms in collaboration with the World Bank and other partners to address macroeconomic challenges. She previously served as chief of the Gender Equity Thematic Group, responsible for overseeing and advising on ADB-wide operations to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. Ms. Tanaka has worked extensively on gender and development, poverty reduction, social analysis, social protection, and community participation issues in Asia and the Pacific. Her sectoral expertise spans education, finance, health, infrastructure, natural resources management, public sector management, and urban development. Prior to joining ADB, she held roles in the World Bank’s South Asia Department and in development institutions in Japan.

    Ms. Tanaka is a national of Japan and holds a master of arts in gender and development from the Institute of Development Studies, Sussex University and a post-graduate diploma in development studies from the Institute of Developing Economies Advanced School in Japan. She has a bachelor’s degree in international relations from the University of Tokyo.

    Bhutan became a member of ADB in 1982. ADB has committed around $1.2 billion in loans, grants and technical assistance to the country, including cofinancing. ADB’s priority areas for support in Bhutan include energy, transport, urban infrastructure, water supply and sanitation, education, agriculture and natural resources, and finance. As of October 2024, ADB’s Bhutan portfolio includes 15 projects worth around $363 million.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB to Improve Rural Livehoods, Ecosystems and Climate Resilience in Qixia City, Shandong, PRC

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    MANILA, PHILIPPINES (30 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $150 million loan to enhance the ecological and climate resilience, as well as rural livelihoods in Qixia City in Shandong Province, the People’s Republic of China (PRC).  

    “The Shandong Qixia Ecological Function Conservation Demonstration Project will provide a model of integrated city ecosystem management,” said ADB Country Director for the PRC Safdar Parvez. “The project will benefit more than 429,000 residents through enhanced natural resources, environmental living conditions, and livelihood opportunities. The practices and experiences in this ecologically sensitive area could be replicated in other parts of the PRC, as well as in other countries.”

    Qixia City serves as the primary water source for coastal Yantai municipality in northeast Shandong Province, a major apple-growing area. However, intensive use of agricultural chemicals and plastic has damaged soil and water quality in the vicinity. Climate change is also increasing the frequency and magnitude of weather-related disasters. The degradation of natural capital in the city is disrupting agriculture and food security.

    To improve sustainability practices for agriculture and rural livelihoods, the project will conduct soil testing and apply organic fertilizers and soil conditioners to improve soil quality, as well as promote ecotourism to provide a sustainable source of income for local communities, while also raising awareness about the importance of conserving the ecosystem.

    The project will pilot a smart orchard system that will have modern and environment-friendly practices, such as sensors, data analytics, automation, optimized fertigation, and pest control. It will also strengthen rural solid waste collection management. All contribute to more sustainable production systems with reduced chemical fertilizer and pesticide use.

    To protect natural capital, the project will rehabilitate degraded river courses through bank protection, flood control, and excavation of river blockages. It will also construct forest fire prevention pathways and implement sustainable forest pest control. Institutional capacity and coordination on integrated ecosystem management will also be strengthened.

    As part of ADB’s Yellow River Ecological Corridor Program, aligned with the PRC’s Yellow River Basin Ecological Protection and High-quality Development Plan, the project aims to adopt a model of integrated ecosystem management and building climate resilience. It has significant regional benefits, as it addresses the complex ecological and environmental challenges in the Yellow River region.

    The total project cost is estimated to be $362 million, with $212 million counterpart financing from the government, which includes $85 million cofinancing from the Agricultural Development Bank of China. More than $99 million of the ADB financing is earmarked for climate adaptation and mitigation. It is expected to be completed in 2030.

    ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Replicating ADB Projects from the People’s Republic of China

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Transcript

    Projects in the PRC offer rich potential for learning and replication—both domestically and abroad.

    Echoes of Success assembles five case studies in demonstration and replication of ADB-financed projects in the PRC.

    The five projects span diverse sectors—from nature conservation, green finance, water management, and energy efficiency, to road safety.

    Jiangsu Yancheng Biodiversity Protection Project restored nature reserves, and strengthened wetland protection and habitat management.

    The project’s insights in nurturing coexistence of rare species and humans have been applied to other wetlands, and inspired ADB’s Regional Flyway Initiative.

    Shandong Green Development Fund Project is a funding mechanism that mobilizes investment for climate projects and the environment.

    It has stimulated similar green finance initiatives in Southeast Asia, Central, and West Asia.

    Shaanxi Mountain Road Safety Demonstration Project is ADB’s first standalone road safety project.

    It adopts international road safety inspection, impact assessment, and design.

    The road safety program has been replicated in the PRC and Mongolia and won a global award from the International Road Federation.

    Shaanxi Accelerated Energy Efficiency and Environment Improvement Financing Project channeled funding to small and medium-scale clean energy investments in energy efficiency and emission reduction.

    The project’s pollution reduction, renewable energy heating, energy conservation technologies were replicated in two cities in Henan province.

    Wuhan Urban Environmental Improvement Project integrated sludge treatment and disposal systems, rehabilitated lakes, and strengthened water management.

    Lessons from the project design and implementation were applied to ADB projects in Huangshi and Huainan.

    Successful replication of projects requires active knowledge exchange, strong government support, and official recognition.

    ADB and the PRC will continue to promote regional and global development by sharing best practices and lessons in the PRC with other developing countries. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police target organised crime group and seize significant quantity of cannabis

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Last week Police across Counties Manukau, Auckland City and Waitemata Districts executed over 30 search warrants at addresses around the Districts, targeting an organised crime group using residential properties to set-up sophisticated indoor cannabis growing systems.

    The termination has resulted in a significant seizure of illegal drugs and the arrest of 11 people. 3,385 cannabis plants at various growth-stages have been seized and destroyed, along with 48 kilograms of dried cannabis. The estimated total value of the seizures, based on estimated yield of the plants, is $18 million.

    The majority of those arrested were in New Zealand illegally and a result, Immigration New Zealand has deported 11 Vietnamese nationals. All 11 have left New Zealand and are back in Vietnam.

    Enquiries are ongoing utilising intelligence gathered during the operation and Police cannot rule-out the possibility of further arrests.

    Acting Detective Inspector Greg Brand of Auckland City Police says the arrests come as a result of an investigation that has spanned Tamaki Makaurau and which targeted a sophisticated and profit-driven criminal syndicate.

    “This group were cultivating and dealing in large amounts of cannabis and their actions mirror similar operations recently uncovered in Australia where criminal groups, primarily of Vietnamese descent, were running a large number of indoor cannabis growing operations,” says Acting Detective Inspector Brand.

    “Make no mistake, these syndicates are well connected to gangs and this cannabis is a large source of income for their illegal operations.

    “Often the properties used by these groups will appear innocuous and will not really attract neighbours’ attention. However the operations that are set-up within are capable of producing large quantities of cannabis to sell.

    “These individuals are significantly modifying rental properties to cultivate cannabis with extremely dangerous electrical installations.

    “Not only is this extremely dangerous and creates a significant fire risk, we’d estimate millions of dollars’ worth of electricity is being stolen every year to run these operations.”

    Police is working alongside Immigration New Zealand in relation to the foreign nationals involved in this investigation, as we want to ensure migrant communities are kept safe from those who would exploit the conditions of their work visas.

    WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

    Police are reminding landlords to be vigilant when renting out their properties.

    • Ensure there are regular property inspections.
    • Carry out thorough vetting: get two forms of photo ID and sight the original document, compare the photo with the applicant.

    It’s important for the community to remain vigilant as well.

    If you see suspicious activity, such as deliveries of easy grow and fertilizer bags being dropped off, or signs that an electricity meter has been tampered with, please contact Police.

    • Report any information you have by calling 105
    • Go online to make a report at www.police.govt.nz/use-105
    • Contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
    • If migrant communities are concerned with possible exploitation, contact MBIE on 0800 20 90 20

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    Note for media: a small number of video clips are available for release to media outlets, please contact Police Media team for download details.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USNS Carl Brashear Conducts RAS During Keen Sword 25 [Image 1 of 5]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Maintenance window scheduled to begin at February 14th 2200 est. until 0400 est. February 15th

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USNS Carl Brashear Conducts RAS During Keen Sword 25 [Image 5 of 5]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 25, 2024) – The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Takanami-class destroyer JS Ōnami (DD-111) approaches the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7) to conduct a refueling-at-sea during Keen Sword 25, Oct. 25, 2024. Keen Sword is a biennial, joint and bilateral field-training exercise involving U.S. military and Japan Self-Defense Forces personnel, designed to increase readiness and interoperability while strengthening the ironclad U.S.-Japan alliance. (Courtesy Photo)

    Date Taken: 10.25.2024
    Date Posted: 10.29.2024 22:20
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  • MIL-Evening Report: Pacific leaders’ mission to Nouméa – Mapou says New Caledonia at ‘turning point’

    By Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific presenter/Bulletin editor

    A three-day fact-finding mission, headed by three Pacific leaders, has wrapped up in Nouméa, and New Caledonia’s President Louis Mapou says the French territory is at a “turning point”.

    The semi-autonomous Pacific territory has been riddled with violent unrest since May.

    While tensions have reportedly eased for now, the main political decision-making body for the Pacific region has been in Nouméa this week on a “strictly observational” but “critical mission”.

    New Caledonia’s President Louis Mapou . . . “They willingly shared their own history.” Image: 1ère TV

    Territorial President Louis Mapou told reporters why the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) “troika -plus” visit was so important.

    “They have a shared intention with government members, drawing on their own experience in the region: the Cook Islands, which are in free association with New Zealand; Tonga, a country that was never colonised; and the Solomon Islands, which have experienced interethnic conflicts in the northern part, where youth played a significant role,” he said.

    “And finally, Fiji, which gained independence, decided to withdraw from the Commonwealth, and is now re-evaluating its connection with the British Crown. So, they willingly shared their own history.

    “They pointed out that in each of these histories, it was often the internal decisions of the populations involved that ultimately shaped the choices made about their country’s future.”

    What a pleasant honour to have Hon. Prime Minister @slrabuka welcomed by @LegionEtrangere & @RSMA_NC , writing a poem about his visit in New-Caledonia as a member of the @ForumSEC high level Troïka-Plus information mission . pic.twitter.com/HVVoebqPfA

    — Véronique Roger-Lacan (@rogerlacanv) October 28, 2024

    Hope and perspective
    Local government spokesperson Charles Wea said the visit brought hope and perspective.

    “It is important that that people from New Caledonia can arrive to express their views, and also the political perspectives, in terms of political future,” he said.

    “The process of decolonisation, for example, which is quite a major subject topic that will be in the discussion with a mission”

    Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni led the PPIF troika-plus delegation — Rabuka was the “plus” factor.

    “We are not there to judge you or to tell them what to do right now. It is a preliminary visit. So, basically, we just want to listen.”

    While it is a fact-finding mission, there are some indisputable facts, such as New Caledonia being on the United Nations Decolonisation List.

    Tuvalu MP Simon Kofe has expressed his thoughts on this.

    Pacific ‘needs to support decolonisation’
    “My position is for independence, we need to continue supporting the decolonisation of the Pacific,” Kofe told RNZ Pacific.

    Hu’akavameiliku’s views were somewhat more diplomatic.

    “I do believe that there is a way of having some sovereignty and control of your country. There are various models in the Pacific. You have Niue and Cook Islands. Then you have American Samoa.

    “We are not the ones who will tell [New Caledonia] what is working and what is not. We respect their sovereignty.”

    But amid the politicking, a Kanak leader from the Protestant Church of Kanaky New Caledonia, Billy Wetewea, said people were struggling.

    In particular, the indigenous population, who were battling inequities in education, employment and health, he said.

    “The destruction that the youth have made since May, was a kind of expression of the frustration towards all of these social injustices,” he said.

    “We are fighting for our humanity. So, it’s for the dignity of our humanity, and our humanity is the humanity of everyone.”

    ‘Neither marginalised nor mistreated’
     The pro-France loyalists, however, have a different perspective.

    “Contrary to what some separatists suggest, the Kanak people are neither marginalised nor mistreated,” they said in a statement.

    “On the contrary, [Kanaky people are] one of the most advantaged in our Oceanian region.”

    Wea said the Pacific leaders had the chance to hear from all sides involved in the unrest.

    The findings will be presented to the 18 Pacific leaders at next year’s leaders meeting.

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

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Four property owners fined over $104,000 in total for failing to comply with fire safety directions

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Four property owners fined over $104,000 in total for failing to comply with fire safety directions
    Four property owners fined over $104,000 in total for failing to comply with fire safety directions
    ******************************************************************************************

         Four property owners were convicted and fined over $104,000 in total at the Eastern Magistrates’ Courts on October 17 for failing to comply with fire safety directions issued under the Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance (FS(B)O) (Cap. 572).      The Buildings Department (BD) issued fire safety directions under section 5(2)(a)(ii) of the FS(B)O to the respective owners of four domestic flats in a 70-year-old composite building on Lockhart Road, Causeway Bay, requiring them to comply with the fire safety construction requirements by providing fire-rated doors at the unit entrances, which open directly to staircases.      Failing to comply with the statutory directions, the four owners were prosecuted by the BD and were convicted by the court. Each of them was fined $26,120.      “According to the FS(B)O, failing to comply with a statutory direction issued under the ordinance without reasonable excuse is a serious offence. The BD may instigate prosecution proceedings against the owner”, a spokesman for the BD said today (October 30).      Pursuant to section 5(8) of the FS(B)O, any person who, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with a statutory direction, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine at level 4 ($25,000 at present) and to a further fine of $2,500 for each day of non-compliance. Upon conviction, an application may also be made to the court for a Fire Safety Compliance Order against the owner under section 6(1) of the FS(B)O directing the owner to comply with the requirements of the direction.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: New direct air service links Guiyang with Singapore

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Tianjin Airlines announced on Tuesday that a direct flight route will be available starting Nov. 15, connecting Guiyang, the capital city of southwest China’s Guizhou Province, with Singapore.

    The new air service will operate with an Airbus A320 aircraft, offering four round-trip flights per week, with each flight lasting approximately four hours or more.

    This will be the only direct flight from the mountainous province to Singapore, further expanding the international air routes available from China’s southwestern region.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 2nd ‘Smile of Cambodia’ event kicks off at famed Angkor Wat

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The second “Smile of Cambodia” event was held in front of the famed Angkor Wat here in northwest Siem Reap province on Tuesday, aiming at promoting culture and the world heritage site to tourists.

    Angkor Wat is a major ancient temple in the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony of the two-day event, Phoeurng Sackona, minister of culture and fine arts, said the event was designed to promote culture and enhance tourism to attract international visitors to the Angkor.

    “This event has not only promoted Cambodia’s arts, culture, tradition and custom, but also contributed to revitalizing the tourism sector, which is one of the key catalysts for the kingdom’s economic growth,” she said.

    Sackona said the event was hosted by the APSARA National Authority (ANA), a government agency responsible for managing, safeguarding and preserving the Angkor Archaeological Park, in collaboration with the Khmer Artists Association.

    According to the ANA, activities during the two-day event include exhibitions of local cuisine and souvenirs, entertainment programs, and cultural shows, among others.

    The 401-square-km Angkor Archaeological Park, which is Cambodia’s most popular tourist destination, is home to 91 ancient temples, built from the ninth to the 13th centuries.

    The ancient park attracted almost 700,000 international visitors during the January-September period of 2024, earning a gross revenue of 32.5 million U.S. dollars from ticket sales, according to the state-owned Angkor Enterprise. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tse Chin-wan attends SZ seminar

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan today attended a seminar in Shenzhen, hosted by the Ministry of Ecology & Environment, on ecological and environmental protection in the Greater Bay Area.

    The seminar was aimed deepening such protection, strengthening collaboration towards it matter among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau, and exploring measures to accelerate the building of “an international first-class beautiful bay area”.

    Mr Tse highlighted four relevant areas of focus for Hong Kong: enhancing environmental governance to build a beautiful Hong Kong; promoting green and low-carbon transformation; green transportation development; and advocating for the establishment of a “Zero-waste City”.

    Highlighting that the three places have in place effective co-ordination mechanisms to promote ecological and environmental protection, Mr Tse added that Hong Kong will continue to contribute to the development of picturesque landscapes and a beautiful bay area.

    He elaborated that Hong Kong is looking forward to collaborating with Mainland cities in the bay area to jointly promote a circular economy, facilitate green transformation and explore opportunities for the development of green industries. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ12: Strive and Rise Programme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Martin Liao and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (October 30):
     
    Question:
     
         Regarding the second round of the Strive and Rise Programme (the Programme), will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) given that the Strive and Rise Alumni Club (Alumni Club) under the Programme has organised a number of exchange tours to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and also offers local job tasting or internship programmes for Alumni Club members aged between 16 and 21, and it is reported that some Mainland multinational enterprises intend to hire mentee graduates of the Programme, whether the authorities will consider extending the job tasting or internship programmes of the Alumni Club to GBA, so that mentees may gain a deeper understanding of the development of GBA at an early stage and widen their horizons; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) as it is reported that some mentors in the first round of the Programme were unable to spare time and participate in the activities with their mentees due to their busy schedules, and remained unaware of the emotional issues among the mentees by the end of the first round of the Programme, whether the authorities will make appropriate adjustments to the mentorship mechanism in the second round of the Programme to accommodate mentees with special needs and arrange for the mentors to receive training first, so as to help the mentors identify and address the emotional needs of the mentees; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (3) as it is learnt that a number of interest classes offered to mentees under the basic training sessions of the Programme are very popular among the mentees, but the costs of the interest classes in sport, musical instruments, art, etc, are too high that it is difficult to meet mentees’ long-term learning needs despite a subsidy totalling $10,000 is provided to them in two phases under the Programme, whether the authorities will introduce measures and collaborate with schools and various sectors where practicable, so as to support mentees in continuing to develop their interests; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (4) as there are views that the Child Development Fund is similar to the Programme in nature and content, for example, both with the elements such as “personal development plan” and “mentorship”, whether the Government will consider reviewing their contents and make appropriate integration or project collaboration, so as to optimise resources; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The second cohort of the Strive and Rise Programme (the Programme) was launched in October 2023, with a number of enhancement measures introduced with reference to the results from the impact assessment conducted by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University research team on the programme’s first cohort. The enhancement measures include increasing the number of mentees from 2 800 to 4 000 with the coverage expanded to Secondary 4 students, enriching the variety of group activities (such as organising more Mainland study and exchange tours), introducing mentorship groups, and establishing the Strive and Rise Alumni Club (the Alumni Club) for graduates.
     
         The reply to the question raised by the Hon Martin Liao is as follows:
     
    (1) Graduates of the first and second cohorts of the Programme will automatically become members of the Alumni Club established in November 2023. It organises different types of activities for the alumni, including exchange activities to the Mainland, with a view to broadening their social network and horizons, and sustaining the effectiveness of the programme. Also, the Alumni Club provides short-term five-day job tasting/internship opportunities for alumni aged 16 or above to assist them in identifying their talents and career aspirations. It will continue, in collaboration with supporting organisations, to line up Mainland study and exchange tours as well as various experiential activities, including visits to workplaces of different enterprises, to help alumni understand the development and prospects of different industries on the Mainland, widen their horizons and set goals for their future.
     
    (2) One of the enhancement measures implemented in the second cohort of the Programme is the introduction of mentorship groups on top of the one-to-one mentor-mentee pairing, under which two to three pairs of mentors and mentees would form a mentorship group to participate in group activities and exchanges for better interaction, sharing and support. When matching mentors and mentees, consideration will be given to the latter’s career aspirations and hobbies/interests, as well as their gender, language and special needs (e.g. special educational needs (SENs)). The programme also provided different kinds of training for mentors, including basic and advanced training, and skills for interacting with mentees with SENs or from ethnic minority groups and their parents. If mentors encounter difficulties in offering guidance to mentees, they may contact the respective District Organisers which will arrange social workers to render support as appropriate.
     
    (2) The enhanced Programme consists of a one-year intensive foundation programme and two years of activities in the Alumni Club. In the first year of the Programme, a start-up sum of $5,000 is awarded to student participants for implementing their personal development plans under the guidance of their mentors, whereas a scholarship of $5,000 is further awarded to student participants upon completion of the Programme for their own deployment by applying the financial planning skills acquired. Graduates will automatically become members of the Alumni Club and can continue to participate in its whole-person development activities covering six major aspects, namely Financial Education, Career and Life Planning, Leadership Development, Sports and Healthy Lifestyle, Arts and Cultural Expressions, and Social Networking and Civic Engagement, as well as job tasting/internship opportunities, with a view to broadening their social network and horizons while continuing to facilitate their development of talents and interests.
     
    (4) In 2023, the Social Welfare Department completed a review of the Child Development Fund Programme (CDF Programme) to enhance its uniqueness and ensure effective use of resources in supporting underprivileged children. Relevant enhancement measures have been introduced to the projects launched in March 2024. For example, target participants have been changed from students of Primary 4 to Secondary 4 to students of Primary 3 to Primary 6, so that underprivileged children can benefit at an early developmental stage from the CDF Programme, including development of savings habits, good characters and positive values through the three components of Personal Development Plan, Mentorship, and Targeted Savings. The enhanced CDF Programme complements the Strive and Rise Programme which focuses on supporting Secondary 1 to 4 students from underprivileged families. The two programmes complement each other in catering to the needs of Primary and Secondary students from underprivileged families at their different developmental stages.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ9: Promoting digital nomadism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ9: Promoting digital nomadism
    LCQ9: Promoting digital nomadism
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         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Johnny Ng and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (October 30): Question:      It has been reported that digital nomadism (i.e. working remotely online while living abroad) has become a lifestyle with growing popularity in recent years. Some studies have estimated that the population of digital nomads worldwide would increase to 1 billion by 2035. There are views that hiring digital nomads is conducive to business operation by reducing employers’ costs and expenses, while the presence of digital nomads in the host communities will also contribute to local economic growth. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) whether the Government will or has estimate(d) and assess(ed) the economic benefits that can be brought to Hong Kong by implementing digital nomad policies to attract talents to work and live in Hong Kong; (2) as there are views pointing out that digital nomads can help expand the talent pool to a worldwide scale, and it is learnt that at present, about 60 countries and places across the globe have already introduced digital nomad visas (e.g. the digital nomad visa launched by Thailand this year has a validity of five years, permitting a stay of up to 180 days per visit, while the digital nomad visa introduced by Japan this year allows holders to bring along with them their family members), whether the Government will, by drawing reference from the relevant practices, issue digital nomad visas to overseas and Mainland talents, or even roll out related preferential policies (including temporary resident visas, accommodation allowance, family-friendly measures and tax incentives, etc) in order to attract specific types of digital nomads (e.g. talents related to Web 3.0, quantum computation and artificial intelligence), thereby attracting more talents to come to Hong Kong; if so, of the details of the plan and the timetable; if not, the reasons for that; and (3) whether the Government will, in the long run, consider launching an e-Residency programme to offer digital citizenship to foreigners, so as to attract more talents and enterprises from abroad to settle in Hong Kong? Reply: President,      In consultation with the Financial Secretary’s Office (including the Office of the Government Economist and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises), the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, I give the reply on behalf of the Government as follows:           “Digital nomads” are essentially similar to visitors, who can live in one place but at the same time work remotely under an employment outside such place. “Digital nomads” will return to their places of origin or move to other places after a certain period of time.      In the case of Hong Kong, the Government has implemented a series of enhanced talent admission measures since the end of 2022 to entice global talents of diverse backgrounds and professions to settle and pursue development in Hong Kong. Talents will alleviate the post-pandemic manpower shortage in Hong Kong, fill local job vacancies and enrich the local talent pool for promoting economic development. As the objective of the Government’s talents policy is to alleviate manpower shortage, we hope that admitted talents can make Hong Kong their home, inject impetus and contribute to the development of Hong Kong. “Digital nomads” are mobile. Although they will spend on various aspects in daily living during their stay in Hong Kong, they are no different from ordinary visitors. They do not fit well under the Government’s talent attraction policy. The Government has no plan to introduce “digital nomad” visa arrangement under the talent admission regime.      At present, “digital nomad” visa arrangement is implemented in a small number of regions only. With limited statistics on relevant economic activities available, the Government is not able to estimate the potential economic benefits brought by adopting similar practice in Hong Kong. The “e-Residency programme” allows freelance workers to obtain some of the rights or facilitation granted to the citizens of the issuing place, or they may live and work in the issuing place. Such an arrangement involves complex issues such as taxation, civil rights and obligations, etc. It is currently implemented in a small number of regions only. The Government has difficulty in assessing its benefit and has no plan to implement such arrangement neither at present.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 11:05

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Domestic violence

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ19: Domestic violence
    LCQ19: Domestic violence
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         Following is a question by the Hon Lilian Kwok and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (October 30): Question:      There are views pointing out that domestic violence is of grave concern in the community. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) of the respective numbers of requests for assistance and reported cases in relation to domestic violence received by the Government in each month of the past five years, as well as the number of persons convicted; (2) as it is learnt that when handling domestic conflict reports, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) will refer cases in need to the Social Welfare Department for follow-up actions once consent is sought from the parties concerned, and for persons who refuse to accept the referral service, HKPF will provide them with a “Family Support Service Information Card” so that they can seek assistance on their own, whether the Government has continuously followed up and provided support for those persons who refused the referral service; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; (3) of the waiting time for and the average number of sessions of psychological counselling and emotional support services provided by the Government to victims in domestic violence cases; (4) given that the Police currently classify domestic conflict reports into “Domestic Violence (Crime)”, “Domestic Violence (Miscellaneous)” and “Domestic Incidents” based on their degree of seriousness, whether the Government will regularly review and update the relevant classification criteria and guidelines; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and (5) of the Government’s education and publicity efforts on the prevention of domestic violence in the past three years (set out by item); whether it has assessed the effectiveness of such work? Reply: President,      The reply to the Member’s question, in consultation with Security Bureau, is as follows: (1) In the past five years, the numbers of cases involving spouse/cohabitant battering and child protection received and handled by the Social Welfare Department (SWD) are tabulated below: 

    Case type
    Year

    2019
    2020
    2021
    2022
    2023

    Number of spouse/cohabitant battering cases
    2 920
    2 601
    2 715
    2 077
    1 938

    Number of child protection cases
    1 006
    940
    1 367
    1 439
    1 457

          The SWD does not have information on the monthly number of such cases.      As at September 2024, the respective numbers of cases of domestic violence (including Domestic Violence (Crime) and Domestic Violence (Miscellaneous)) and Domestic Incidents handled by the Police are set out at Annex. As domestic violence cases involve various criminal offences and different ordinances, the Police do not maintain statistics on the relevant number of convictions. (2) When handling domestic conflict reports, once consent is sought from the parties concerned, the Police will refer cases in need to the SWD for follow-up actions, including arranging for the persons in need for admission to refuge centres or immediate intervention by outreaching social workers, etc by the SWD. Depending on the circumstances, the Police refers the victims and/or assailants to other appropriate follow-up services, such as joining hands with the SWD to assist them in contacting relevant social welfare organisations for counseling and other supports, with a view to strengthening protection for victims and preventing recurrence of domestic violence. For persons who refuse to accept referral services, the Police provides a “Family Support Service Information Card” jointly produced with the SWD, to facilitate the persons concerned to contact service agencies direct for assistance. If a case is assessed as high-risk, the Police will take the initiative to refer the case to the SWD to ensure that the case receives timely follow-up. Upon receiving the Police’s referral, the SWD will make crisis intervention and provide necessary support having regard to the circumstances and welfare needs of the case. (3) The SWD provides a wide range of preventive, supportive and specialised services to victims of domestic violence and families in need through different service units. These services include Integrated Family Service Centres/Integrated Services Centres, Family and Child Protective Services Units, Clinical Psychology Units, Family Support Networking Teams, Refuge Centres for Women, Family Crisis Support Centre, Multi-purpose Crisis Intervention and Support Centre, Victim Support Programme for Victims of Family Violence, residential child care services and child care centres. The emergency support services provided by these service units to the victims of domestic violence cases do not require waiting. The SWD does not have the information on the average times of service for each case. (4) The Police have clear professional guidelines for the classification and handling of cases. Irrespective of the classification of a case, police officers will handle and investigate cases with empathy, understanding, professionalism, fairness, and impartiality.      The Police attach great importance to the problem of domestic violence. Through an inter-departmental and multi-disciplinary approach, the Police handle domestic violence cases with joint efforts, with a view to achieving the dual objectives of protecting the personal safety of the victims and their families as well as bringing the offenders to justice. The Police have formulated a set of policies and procedures for effective handling of domestic violence cases, ensuring that officers respond to all reports promptly and take appropriate enforcement actions, and ensure the immediate safety of victim and his/her children to prevent further harm. (5) The SWD has been launching the publicity campaign on “Strengthening Families and Combating Violence”, which include promotion through television, radio, various public transport network, online platforms and social media, to raise public awareness on the understanding of the problems of domestic violence and the prevention of domestic violence. The SWD also organises various mass events and diversified district-based public education programmes with a view to encouraging the persons in need to seek early assistance, preventing resorting to violence against family members and promoting the message of family harmony.      In addition, the Police have also effectively utilised various channels, including seminars, workshops and online platforms to provide training to different sectors such as social welfare and education, in order to raise public awareness and prevent domestic violence cases.      The Government would regularly review the effectiveness of the work and refine the promotion strategies at appropriate time.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 11:08

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Royal Malaysian Navy Commence Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Malaysia 2024

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    LUMUT, Malaysia  –  

    The U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Royal Malaysian Armed Forces commenced Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Malaysia 2024, Oct. 29. This marks the beginning of eight days of maritime engagements designed to enhance interoperability and strengthen security ties between the two nations.

    “This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training exercise series, which is a testament to the strength and longevity of the U.S.-Malaysia partnership,” said Capt. John Baggett, deputy commodore, Destroyer Squadron 7 and U.S. head of delegation for the opening ceremony. “Over the past three decades, we’ve built a strong foundation of trust and cooperation that has benefited both of our nations. Exercises like this underscore the excellent partnership between our militaries and emphasizes our respect for one another.”

    CARAT Malaysia 2024 builds on 67 years of close collaboration between the U.S. and Malaysia. It highlights our continued dedication to peace, stability and security in the region. Additionally, CARAT Malaysia serves as a symbol of the U.S. commitment to key Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) partners to reinforce ASEAN Centrality, supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    During the exercise, participants will engage in specialized training across a wide range of disciplines including medicine, legal operations, aviation, and force protection. Naval vessels and maritime surveillance aircraft, and specialized teams (including diving and explosive ordnance disposal units) will conduct high-intensity drills focusing on anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, and maritime domain awareness.

    This year, Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia (MRF-SEA) personnel will engage in training events and expert exchanges with Royal Malaysian army and naval forces, focusing on amphibious operations planning, medical treatment in maritime environments, legal discussions, and security and cyber operations best practices.

    These events aim to enhance the collective interoperability and proficiency between U.S. and Malaysian forces while cultivating strong relationships as partners.

    “CARAT serves as a vital platform for our armed forces to engage in cooperative operations. It emphasizes our shared dedication to promoting stability and addressing shared challenges in our maritime domain,” said Royal Malaysian Navy First Admiral Hj Muhammad Rohdi bin Ariffin, assistant chief of staff, Joint Force Headquarters and Malaysian head of delegation for the opening ceremony. “We are privileged to host our friends from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. This exercise showcases the strength of our partnership and the spirit of collaboration… Together we can overcome challenges and ensure a stable future for all.”

    Participating U.S. assets include the Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) and a P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft, staff and personnel from Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 72, 73, 75, and 76, Command, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, and MRF-SEA personnel from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

    Royal Malaysian Navy participating assets include the Kedah-class offshore patrol vessel KD Terengganu (F 174), the Keris-class littoral mission ship KD Rencong (KD 114), a Eurocopter AS 550 Fennec helicopter, an F/A-18D Hornet multi-role fighter, and two Agusta Westland AW139 helicopters.

    As the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed DESRON in Southeast Asia, DESRON 7 serves as the primary tactical and operational commander of littoral combat ships rotationally deployed to Singapore. DESRON 7 also functions as the CTF-76 Sea Combat Commander and builds partnerships through training exercises and military-to-military engagements as the executing agent of Commander, Task Group CARAT.

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

    MIL Security OSI –