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Category: Tourism

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Winter in Moscow project allowed businesses to make a name for themselves and increase sales

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The capital’s business actively supported the large-scale city project “Winter in Moscow”. Thus, it not only became a major holiday, but also offered wide opportunities and support measures for entrepreneurs. For example, the magic market of the “Made in Moscow” project united more than 500 manufacturers and placed its sites on seven tourist streets of the capital, including Arbat, Novy Arbat, Kuznetsky Most, Rozhdestvenka, as well as Tverskoy Boulevard, Stoleshnikov Lane and Bolotnaya Square. Each pavilion became a real art object – red and white knitted balls, a mini-station, a box of toys, a box of chocolates, a huge gift. In them, one could buy clothes, accessories, cosmetics, children’s toys, household goods, food products and much more.

    One of the most attractive for guests was the flagship pavilion on Bolotnaya Square, where master classes, fashion shows and ice shows were held, and a magic train also ran. During its operation, the magic market was visited by 570 thousand people, and Moscow brands sold over 50 thousand products. 10 percent of the proceeds from the market participants were sent to the charity fund “People’s Front. Everything for Victory!”

    As part of the “Come on in!” project, more than 700 organizations from various fields, such as public catering, the beauty industry, trade and education, made over 900 offers to city residents and tourists: from discounts and bonuses to free master classes, gastronomic tastings, performances and sports activities. More than six thousand people took advantage of them.

    Businessmen helped create a festive mood in Moscow by decorating the facades, shop windows and entrances of their organizations. This was facilitated by three special support measures that were launched in the capital this season. More than 5.3 thousand entrepreneurs applied for them. For example, with the help of a grant for decoration of the first 100 entrepreneurs, business owners were able to compensate for part of the costs of decorating their sites.

    In addition, a competition for the best festive decoration was held. The total prize fund was 700 million rubles. And creative teams, designers and all interested persons over the age of 18 were able to demonstrate their talents in a competition for the best project of festive and thematic decoration of a non-residential property.

    From December 26 to 29, the Central Exhibition Hall “Manezh” hosted the II Moscow Beauty Week — one of the largest events of the project. Over four days, it was visited by more than 60 thousand people, and 600 Russian companies presented their products, of which 384 were from Moscow. One of the most popular objects of the exhibition was the “Made in Moscow” stand, designed as an advent calendar.

    Residents of the capital actively formed the poster of the project “Winter in Moscow”. In total, 529 applications for holding events were received from individuals and business representatives. Most often, these were master classes (63 percent), concerts and show programs (15 percent), lectures and seminars (14 percent), and excursions (eight percent). Every fifth event took place in the Central Administrative District, and 80 percent were held in other districts.

    The Winter in Moscow project not only allowed businesses to make a name for themselves and increase sales, but also became a real winter holiday. In total, the events attracted almost 30 million residents and guests of the city.

    The Winter in Moscow project became the main event of the season, which united various events of the capital. City residents and tourists remembered traditions and history, warmed themselves with tea and hot buns, skated, watched ice shows, gave gifts to people who found themselves in a difficult life situation, and also showed care for those who needed it.

    Muscovites and guests of the capital had a huge choice of entertainment in the open air and in cultural and sports institutions. The atmosphere of winter traditions engulfed the entire city: more than 1.9 thousand sites were open. The project organically wove in the capital’s largest festivals “Moscow Estates”, “Moscow Tea Party”, “City of Light” and many others.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/150899073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: A New Dawn for African Sports: Unlocking Transformational Investment in Community Sports Infrastructure

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    LAGOS, Nigeria, March 4, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Sports Africa Investment Summit 2025 has marked a pivotal moment in Africa’s journey toward sports industrialisation and economic transformation. Over two electrifying days in Lagos, the summit, hosted by Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte (www.SportNigeria.ng) in partnership with the Office of the Presidency and the National Sports Commission, brought together a powerful coalition of stakeholders—government representatives, UNESCO, AFREXIM Bank, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), investors, and sports industry leaders—all united by a shared vision: to unlock the immense potential of sports as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and community development across Africa. 

    At the heart of this historic gathering was the signing of a groundbreaking technical agreement between the Abia State Government and Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte, paving the way for Africa’s first-ever Sports Special Economic Zone (SSEZ). This visionary initiative will transform Abia State into a global hub for sports goods manufacturing, leveraging Aba’s legendary craftsmanship, entrepreneurial spirit, and industrial excellence. Aligned with Nigeria’s Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the SSEZ is poised to become a beacon of innovation, trade, and industrialisation, creating thousands of jobs and empowering local businesses. 

    According to Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, Commissioner for Sports, Abia State, “The Special Sports Economic Zone is a game-changer for Abia State and Nigeria at large. Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR we are committed to driving a collective agenda that will transform Abia into the premier hub for sports goods manufacturing and infrastructure development. This project is a bold step toward job creation, youth empowerment, and economic diversification, and we will work tirelessly to ensure its full realisation with our partners, Sports Nigeria.” 

    The summit’s robust discussions underscored the pressing need for innovative financing models, capacity-building initiatives, and diaspora engagement to sustain long-term development. According to Mr. Chinedum Chijioke, Chair of the Abia State Investment Office, “The signing of this agreement marks the beginning of a transformative journey to attract global investments and build an ecosystem where sports, commerce, and industry thrive together. We are dedicated to fostering strategic partnerships that will actualise this vision and create lasting economic impact.” 

    The summit also saw the formal launch of Spaces 4 Sports, Sport Nigeria’s flagship initiative designed to address Africa’s sports infrastructure deficit at the grassroots level. This cluster-based model will integrate community sports hubs across the continent, providing accessible facilities that encourage mass participation in sports, particularly within the education sector. By embedding sports into daily life, Spaces 4 Sports aims to achieve a 50% increase in mass sports participation, enhance youth engagement, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa Union Agenda 2063, using sports as a catalyst for education, health, and gender inclusivity. 

    The message from the summit was clear: Africa’s sports economy is ready to take off, but it will require bold investments, visionary leadership, and strategic partnerships to realise its full potential. This point was emphasised by Ms. Nkechi Obi, CEO of Sport Nigeria Ltd, “Sports is more than entertainment—it’s an industry, a business, and a force for economic transformation. Abia’s Sports Special Economic Zone is the first of its kind, but it won’t be the last. We are setting a precedent that others will follow.” 

    The private sector has a critical role to play in bridging the infrastructure gap and unlocking the industry’s potential. With sports serving as a multi-billion-dollar industry globally, Africa is uniquely positioned to harness its youthful population, raw talent, and market demand. Strategic investment in sports infrastructure will not only drive economic growth but also create employment, boost tourism, and elevate Africa’s global sporting competitiveness. 

    Mr. Yahaya Maikori, Vice Chairman of Sport Nigeria, notes that “We don’t need more talk—we need action. This SSEZ is our action plan. The world is watching, and investors are ready. Now is the time.” 

    The foundation has been laid. The partnerships are forming. Now is the time for investors, DFIs, and Africa-focused development organisations to step forward and seize this unprecedented opportunity. The future of African sports is not on the sidelines—it’s in the factories, the training centers, the research labs, and the boardrooms. 

    The call to action is clear: Invest in Africa’s sports future. Build the infrastructure. Empower the youth. Transform communities. Together, we can change the game. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergei Sobyanin summed up the results of the Winter in Moscow project

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Winter in Moscow project has ended in the capital. Almost 30 million Muscovites and guests of the city took part in it. Sergei Sobyanin summed up the results of the large-scale project in his blog.

    “Three months of festivities, almost 53 thousand events and countless impressions, smiles, cozy gatherings with loved ones and new acquaintances are behind us. I sincerely thank the organizers, artists, volunteers and everyone who helped to implement this large-scale and important project for the city – we did a great job together!” – wrote the Mayor of Moscow.

    The Winter in Moscow project united the largest festivals: Journey to Christmas, Moscow Estates, Moscow Tea Party, Moscow Maslenitsa, Chinese New Year in Moscow, Moscow Traditions, as well as popular city events: the parade of Father Frosts and Snow Maidens, Student Days in Moscow, Winter Day of Moscow Sports and much more.

    Good works

    Much attention was traditionally paid to charity. Residents and guests of the capital collected and handed over 35 thousand gifts to the Domiki Dobra (Houses of Good) of the Moscow Helps project. Warm clothes and cards with heartfelt wishes were brought for the participants of the special military operation (SVO), and toys and books were given to young residents of the new regions. Family members of SVO participants were given 30 thousand certificates for free visits to skating rinks, as well as 17 thousand tickets to New Year’s trees.

    In February, a charity day was held at the VDNKh skating rink. The proceeds from ticket sales were sent to the Konstantin Khabensky charity foundation, the Vera and Life Line hospices, and the I Am! foundation for supporting children with special needs.

    This year, a month before the official end of the “Kind Tree” campaign, Muscovites fulfilled more than 1,700 cherished wishes of the wards of 170 Moscow non-profit organizations.

    Many visited the winter charity festival “City of the Caring”, events of the volunteer project “Time of Good” and the inclusive exhibition “World without Borders” on the territory of the design factory “Flacon”, and also became Santa Clauses as part of the “Fulfill a Wish” campaign. They did not forget about four-legged animals: they collected food, shampoos and much more for shelters, including in new regions.

    Citywide festivals

    Citywide festivals were, as always, especially popular. As part of the “Journey to Christmas,” Muscovites and tourists met fairy-tale characters and heroes of their favorite Soviet comedies and cartoons, mastered folk crafts and learned to cook New Year’s dishes at master classes, competed in strength, dexterity and accuracy.

    More than 170 ice shows staged by the best Russian figure skaters took place on the venues of “Winter in Moscow”. Olympic champions and other brightest sports stars took to the ice as part of the festival. The program included performances based on favorite fairy tales (“The Nutcracker”, “Swan Lake”, “The Bremen Town Musicians”, “The Snow Queen”).

    The participants of the festival “Moscow Estates” especially remembered the park ball-performance “Theatre in a Box” in the N.E. Bauman Garden and Ostankino Park.

    The City of Light festival became a real celebration of art, mapping and New Year’s magic. Every evening the city streets turned into illustrations of favorite fairy tales. 10 architectural sites in the center of the capital were decorated with projections of iconic stories. Muscovites and guests of the capital could enjoy fantastic light canvases for almost four thousand hours.

    Last year, Muscovites loved the festival to celebrate the Chinese New Year. This year, it was extended and expanded — people could get acquainted with Chinese culture for two weeks at two dozen venues throughout the city.

    At the Moscow Tea Party festival, more than 37 thousand cups of Moscow tea were drunk. During Moscow Maslenitsa, 120 thousand portions of pancakes were eaten, and more than 270 thousand postcards were sent across the country via Winter Mail.

    “Moskino Cinema Park participated in the winter citywide project for the first time, so it prepared with special responsibility: film screenings, excursions, performances, immersive shows – one day is not enough to take part in everything. One of the most popular events was the performance “Cathedral Square” about the Time of Troubles – every screening was sold out,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    A family space opened on the territory of the Moscow Palace of Pioneers, which was visited by more than 115 thousand people in three months. The skating rink was especially popular, as it worked continuously in any weather thanks to its artificial surface. In addition, residents and guests of the capital could visit a charity fair, go tubing and husky sledding. On weekends and holidays, the site hosted master classes, immersive performances, and an eco-farm with deer and alpacas. On the last day of winter, the site hosted a large-scale celebration of Maslenitsa.

    A family space opened on the territory of the Moscow Palace of Pioneers on Vorobyovy Gory, which was visited by more than 115 thousand people in three months. The skating rink, which worked continuously in any weather thanks to the artificial surface, was especially popular. In addition, residents and guests of the capital could visit a charity fair, ride tubing and husky sleds. On weekends and holidays, master classes, immersive performances were held, and an eco-farm with deer and alpacas operated. On the last day of winter, a large-scale celebration of Maslenitsa was held on the site.

    Market of Magic

    Another new feature of “Winter in Moscow” is the magic market of the “Made in Moscow” project. It was held on seven popular tourist streets of the capital – Arbat and Novy Arbat, Kuznetsky Most, Rozhdestvenka, Tverskoy Boulevard, Stoleshnikov Lane, and Bolotnaya Square. Each of the pavilions became a real art object. More than 500 Moscow manufacturers presented their products in them.

    In the flagship pavilion on Bolotnaya Square, one could not only buy products from Moscow manufacturers, but also participate in master classes, watch fashion shows and ice shows, and even ride a real steam locomotive. More than 570 thousand city residents visited the Magic Market, where over 3.5 thousand free themed events took place. In addition, there was a free skating rink, where more than 130 thousand people skated.

    The market became one of the key city support measures for the capital’s businesses. Thus, local brands were able to present their products on the shelves for free, selling more than 50 thousand units of goods. The market participants sent 10 percent of the proceeds to the charity fund “People’s Front. Everything for Victory!”

    Contribution of entrepreneurs

    Entrepreneurs — participants of the special project “Come on in!” — also contributed to the creation of a winter mood in the capital. They prepared more than 900 events — special offers in the form of discounts and bonuses and free gastronomic and creative master classes, performances, and sports. More than six thousand residents and guests of the city took advantage of the offers of the capital’s businesses.

    The 2nd Moscow Beauty Week was held in the Manezh Central Exhibition Hall. Over 60,000 people visited the event over the course of four days, and over 600 Russian companies presented their products, 384 of which were from the capital. One of the main stands at the exhibition was the Made in Moscow stand, designed as an advent calendar. Over 50 capital brands presented their unique products, and visitors could buy souvenirs, take part in themed master classes, and make gifts with their own hands.

    The festive atmosphere in Moscow was created by businessmen who decorated the facades, shop windows and entrances of their organizations. To support such enterprises, a competition for the best winter decoration was held, and a grant for decoration was provided for the first 100 entrepreneurs, within the framework of which businessmen were able to compensate part of the decoration costs. Most of the applications came from companies in the catering sector. In addition, creative teams, designers, as well as citizens over 18 years old were able to show their talents in a competition for the best project of festive and thematic decoration of a non-residential property.

    Events in the parks

    Immersive performances, ice shows and culinary master classes were organized for visitors in the capital’s parks. Interesting events were held here all winter, including the “Tasty Frosts” gastrofestival, the “Snow and Ice” festivals, “Blue Light”, “Hipsters” and much more. Three thousand people took part in the “Mandarin” New Year’s competition.

    We tried to please little Muscovites with New Year’s performances at Gostiny Dvor. The program was not limited to a musical performance, but also unfolded in a specially created space “Detstvograd” in the foyer around an 11-meter fir tree. More than 300 artists, equilibrists and animators took part in the Mayor’s tree.

    More than 600 tons of Ural ice were brought to Moscow for the Snow and Ice festival. Sculptures, light installations and art objects appeared in the city, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The central object of the festival was the Ice Castle of Wonders in the Muzeon Arts Park. This is a huge structure with multi-level slides, on which more than 75 thousand guests rode.

    Outdoor sports

    “Frosty weather is not a reason to deny yourself the pleasure of doing sports. And although winter did not spoil skiers with snow this year, skiing was still possible thanks to our artificial snow-covered slopes in Luzhniki, Bitsa Park, on the territory of Grebnoy Canal and in other places. The ski slopes, including those on Vorobyovy Gory, Novo-Peredelkino and Sevastopolsky Prospekt, were also popular,” the Moscow Mayor emphasized.

    For ice skaters, the city was a real paradise. One of the largest skating rinks, Luzhniki, hosted more than 100,000 people this winter season.

    As part of the Winter in Moscow project, master classes by famous figure skaters were held at the skating rinks. In total, more than 1.2 thousand people took part in them.

    Muscovites could assemble their own team or simply come to one of the 10 capital parks and enjoy the spirit of folk winter competitions, playing Russian hockey in felt boots, snow darts or curling as part of the new family sports festival “Moscow Traditions”. More than 100 thousand people took part in it.

    The winter season of the My Sports District project brought together 60,000 outdoor sports enthusiasts. Professional trainers conducted more than 5,800 skating, skiing, and fitness training sessions.

    A large-scale program was presented at the city’s largest skating rink at VDNKh, which could accommodate up to five thousand people at a time. Here, you could not only hone your skills, but also watch ice shows, participate in theme parties, morning exercises, night skating, and visit a children’s skating school. New features included stands for spectators, an ice arena for hockey and laser tag, a bar counter, and an expanded food court.

    From the end of November to the beginning of March, more than 120 events were held at the skating rink, and almost half a million people became its guests. In addition, during the New Year holidays, VDNKh guests could immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere at the New Year’s fair behind pavilion No. 58.

    Get to know the city better

    The new winter season was the augmented reality game “Winter in Moscow” based on the Russpass mobile app. Walking around the city, getting to know the sights and catching cartoons with the help of smartphones was enjoyed by both children and many adults – players visited the capital’s iconic places more than 730 thousand times.

    It was also possible to get to know Moscow or take a new look at it on excursions of the project “Heritage Around Us”. One of its features was the use of virtual reality glasses. Participants of the excursions could travel into the past and see the interiors of Moscow estates and other historical buildings, usually closed to visitors.

    “Winter in Moscow” was an amazing event, but summer is just around the corner – we are starting to prepare for a new project!” concluded Sergei Sobyanin.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12434050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Main runway at Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport scheduled for completion in 2025

    Main runway at Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport scheduled for completion in 2025
    zaburke

    Subject to legislative approval, the Government of Yukon is investing $7.5 million as part of Budget 2025–26 to complete the final phase of the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport main runway reconstruction. This critical investment will ensure long-term reliability and safety at one of the territory’s most vital transportation hubs.

    The multi-year runway reconstruction project began in summer 2023 and has remained on schedule. The final phase of work is scheduled to begin in spring 2025, with completion expected in fall 2025. This year, crews will reconstruct the south half of the main runway, following the successful reconstruction of the north half in 2024.

    Careful planning and mitigation efforts have minimized disruptions throughout construction, allowing the airport to continue operating efficiently. Runway reconstruction has supported an increase in passenger traffic at Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport, which increased 22.5 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023. This surpassed the pre-pandemic peak of 2019 by 7.7 per cent and marked a record year of arrivals.

    In addition, planning work is underway for the airport maintenance facility replacement, which is critical to the airport’s operation. The new facility is proposed for the east side of the airport, optimizing space for commercial aviation operators. This year, construction will focus on upgrading utilities to support future development in the airport’s east section.

    The Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport is essential to Yukoners’ way of life. Not only does it keep communities connected, it also provides critical support for medical services, helps ensure the delivery of goods and services, empowers tourism and contributes to Arctic security efforts.

    In addition to runway reconstruction, other recent airport upgrades that have benefitted passengers include the opening of a new airport restaurant, in partnership with Air North, Yukon’s Airline and new signage acknowledging the Traditional Territories of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council and Kwanlin Dün First Nation.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ABC Capricornia Breakfast interview with Jeremy Jones

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    JEREMY JONES [HOST]: Well, Senator Anthony Chisholm is in Rockhampton this week. He is the Assistant Minister for Education, Regional Development and Agriculture, and I caught up with him yesterday.

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM [ASSISTANT MINISTER]: We’re helping to open the Keppel Bay Sailing Club new headquarters, which- I’ve seen pictures, it looks absolutely fantastic. And I’m sure it will be a great addition to that community, but also provides opportunity as part of a convention centre that will hopefully drive some more business tourism to the area, which will be fantastic. And then we’re announcing some money for the Rockhampton Council to expand more housing opportunities in this area. So I know that there’s high growth, there’s a lot of people who want to move here, so we want to work with councils where possible to ensure that we can free up land for development. Good for jobs, but also good for those people who want to find a place to live as well.

    JEREMY JONES: That’s exciting that you’re going to be heading to Keppel Bay. We heard a proposal before that they’ve put in to host the sailing for the 2032 Olympics. As Assistant Regional Development Minister, what do you make of that? Do you- would you like to see the Olympics held regionally?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: I certainly think that we need to ensure that there’s a strong regional footprint. So we know that the substance of the Olympics will be based in South East Queensland, but I’m really passionate about being an Olympics for the whole of the state and the whole of the country as well. So I think that we should encourage, where possible and where practicable, that we have as many events spread around the state as possible so that all Queenslanders can feel part of it.

    JEREMY JONES: Is that something the Federal Government would support, to see events outside of Brisbane?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: The way it works so far is that we’ve contributed some financial backing for some of the facilities. That process is being led by the State Government, though, so we’re always willing to discuss proposals that they put forward, but they’re the lead agency on this. But we want to see a successful Olympics. I want to see that from a Queensland point of view. But we think there’s enormous opportunity for how we position the country – Queensland’s going to be a key beneficiary of that.

    JEREMY JONES: So exciting. And moving as well, another announcement that we’re set to see about $1 million for the Gladstone Airport Corporation to construct a fit for purpose patient transfer facility. What’s going on there?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Yeah. So the Regional Airport upgrades fund is one that we’ve had running for a while now, and this is the latest round that has supported nine airports across regional Queensland, including Gladstone. What we know is that in regional Australia and regional Queensland, our airports aren’t only convenient – there actually can be a matter of life and death, and they do provide that facility. So part of the money for Gladstone was providing a patient transfer facility. It’s one that sort of is fit for purpose and can help that community. And the upgrades right across the state go to safety and flooding and lighting so that these airports can be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    JEREMY JONES: We caught up with Gladstone Airport Corporation CEO Mark Cachia, who was chatting about this last week. This is what he had to say.

    [Excerpt]

    MARK CACHIA [GLADSTONE AIRPORT CORPORATION CEO]: It’s about a $5 million upgrade of the- you know, including the building of the facility, and upgrading of the apron area. Being in a regional town, finding medical specialists is very difficult. Most of the time, whenever there’s a speciality needed for surgery or treatment and it’s urgent, most patients need to go out in the Air Ambulance and head back to- head to Brisbane to find a specialist. So it’s- look, it’s quite vital for the region.

    [End of excerpt]

    JEREMY JONES: He certainly says that it is needed there, but mentioned the price tag of $5 million there. Will it be able to go ahead with just $1 million?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Obviously the department will be in discussions with the council about ensuring that we- how we can best support that program. They often have to put in a submission that’s assessed by the department, and they do that on a merits-based approach, so I’m confident that they’ll be able to achieve what they’ve set out to achieve. But there’s always an openness from the Government to ensure that we’re working constructively with councils. And I imagine that story that they’re telling would be a similar one across many parts of regional Queensland.

    JEREMY JONES: You’re hearing from Senator Anthony Chisholm, who’s in Rocky this week. He’s the Assistant Minister for Education, Regional Development and Agriculture, and of course, the election coming up. How are you feeling about it for Labor?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: [Laughs] No, I always enjoy election campaigns because they’re an opportunity to get out and about across this great state of Queensland. Being a senator, I’m actually not up for election this time, but certainly will be out supporting the Queensland Labor Senate team and our fantastic candidates like Emily Mawson here in Capricornia, and right up and down the coast as well.

    JEREMY JONES: Are you confident?

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Well, I think- you’re never confident in this game, but I feel as though for the last three years we’ve put forward responsible cost of living relief, we’ve delivered on our promises, and we’re offering a vision for the future. And I think that there’s a good contrast between what an Albanese Labor Government stands for, compared to what a Dutton Liberal National Party government would mean with cuts to services. So I think there’s going to be a real contrast at this election campaign, and we’ll be out there prosecuting that case between now and whenever that election date is. Jeremy.

    JEREMY JONES: Well, Senator, thanks for joining us this morning.

    ANTHONY CHISHOLM: Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: $43 million boost to north Tassie roads

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government is building Tasmania’s future, driving economic growth and improving freight efficiency by investing over $43 million in roads in the north east of the state.  

    We’re investing $20 million to progress planning and design work for the New Tamar Crossing – a new bridge over the Kanamaluka/River Tamar – in partnership with the Tasmanian Government.

    Planning for the New Tamar Crossing is expected to start this year, with an estimated completion date to be determined in consultation with the Tasmanian Government.  

    Further south, $10 million will go towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass, ensuring it remains open and safe during severe weather events. 

    The Esk Highway is the main access road between the Midland Highway and the east coast. This investment will reduce the economic cost of closures and emergency repairs, safeguarding the route for years to come.  

    We’ve also committed an additional funding to ensure the delivery of critical projects across the north, including: 

    • An additional $4 million for further safety improvements to Bridport Road, including pavement rehabilitation, road widening and improvements to junctions, to improve freight productivity and access to freight gateways. This brings the total Commonwealth investment in the road to $20 million; 
    • An additional $4 million for the Murchison Highway corridor such as overtaking lanes, shoulder sealing and curve-widening works, taking the total Commonwealth investment to $39 million;
    • An additional $3.8 million to support further planning and concept design work for the Devonport to Cradle Mountain corridor, taking the total Commonwealth funding for the project to $6.3 million. 

    Along with roads, we’re better connecting communities by investing in walking and cycling paths. 

    Almost $1.3 million will be funded under the Active Transport Fund in two new projects to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths in the north east of the state:

    • More than $670,000 for Launceston City Council to build a new path connecting Youngtown Primary School with existing footpaths in the Oakden Park area and the Kate Reed Reserve;
    • $610,000 for Meander Valley Council to design and build approximately 2.1 kilometres of new footpath and cycleways along Panorama Road between Bayview Drive and Neptune Drive, Blackstone Heights.

    We have also brought forward $15.6 million of funding for the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranche 4 – Network project, which has a total Australian Government commitment of $81.6 million. This will allow the ongoing delivery of improved network performance and assurance of supply chains for Tasmania’s largest freight producers

    The Albanese Government is making our cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns. 

    Our new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that mean more people have the chance to walk, cycle or push a pram to work, school and anywhere else. 

    More information on the Active Transport Fund is available at Active Transport Fund | Infrastructure Investment Program. 

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

    “Getting vital planning done for the New Tamar Crossing will support Launceston’s growing population by allowing them to move faster and more safely across the region. 

    “The project will enhance the resilience of the road network by providing increased flood immunity while also better connecting people between where they live and work.”  

    Quotes attributable to Senator for Tasmania Helen Polley: 

    “Road upgrades are essential to road user safety ensuring our community remains safe on our roads. In particular, this funding will ensure safer roads for people working in our transport industry and ease the daily commute.”  

    “The community has championed the new Tamar Crossing for some time and this new bridge will now link the West Tamar and East Tamar to benefit locals and tourists.”  

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons Brian Mitchell:

    “These projects add to the Albanese Labor Government’s infrastructure investments throughout regional Tasmania. 

    “In Lyons for example, the Albanese Government is also investing $10 million towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass.

    “It is projects like these that are making our roads safer and improving driver experiences.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s ice city greets over 90 million visitors in 2024-2025 winter season

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The craze for winter sports has fueled tourism in China’s ice city of Harbin, with the number of tourist arrivals growing 9.7 percent year on year to over 90 million during the 2024-2025 winter season.

    As one of China’s top winter tourism destinations, Harbin, the capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, saw its tourism sector rake in 137.22 billion yuan (about 19 billion U.S. dollars) from Nov. 8, 2024, to Feb. 28, 2025, up 16.6 percent year on year, according to Harbin’s culture and tourism bureau.

    The number of international visitors to Harbin, in particular, surged 94.2 percent compared to the last winter season, driven by an influx of tourists from Russia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and ASEAN countries, the bureau said.

    Harbin has ignited a fervor for ice and snow tourism on Chinese social media this winter, since the opening of the 41st Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival on Jan. 5.

    Attractions such as Harbin Ice-Snow World, the Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo, Central Avenue, St. Sophia Cathedral and the Siberian Tiger Park, alongside the festival, were among the most popular tourist destinations. Notably, Harbin Ice-Snow World welcomed a record-breaking 3.56 million visitors during its 68 days of operations.

    The ninth Asian Winter Games and a series of test events held in Harbin also contributed to the tourism surge. The city has built more than 500 ice-and-snow sports venues, and 15 local ski resorts have upgraded their facilities, entertaining spectators and athletes from around the world.

    Cultural venues such as the Harbin Museum and the Exhibition Hall of Evidences of Crime Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army also experienced increased visitor traffic.

    China has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop its ice and snow economy as a new economic driver, targeting a total market size of 1.2 trillion yuan by 2027 and 1.5 trillion yuan by 2030, according to a guideline released by the State Council in 2024.

    Leveraging the opportunity, Harbin is implementing a slew of market regulation and tourist guidance measures to continue optimizing its tourism experience, unleashing greater economic momentum for its ice and snow resources.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: New centre to protect Fraser Coast turtles breaks ground

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    Work has started on the Fraser Coast Turtle Rehabilitation and Research Centre dedicated to the recovery of sick and injured marine turtles and vital research on the threats they face.

    Led by the University of the Sunshine Coast, the centre on the Hervey Bay foreshore will transform care for many at-risk marine turtles, removing the need to transport them several hours to receive life-saving treatment.

    More than 1,400 turtles have been rescued on the Fraser Coast over the past two years, with more than 300 needing specialist care at the nearest rehabilitation facility on the Sunshine Coast. 

    The project will retrofit existing buildings with a new fit-for-purpose facility including a specialist turtle life support system and indoor tanks to care for sick and injured sea turtles.

    The Centre will also be a hub for researchers investigating the general health of marine life across the wider region, and the emerging threats they face, including a deadly “soft shell syndrome”, which is plaguing the local turtle population.

    The Australian Government is providing $250,000 funding for the works with the Queensland Government allocating $1.17 million.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm:

    “Queensland is home to some of the world’s most diverse marine wildlife and this $250,000 investment will help safeguard the Fraser Coast’s turtle populations for future generations.

    “This facility will also boost the local economy with an estimated 15 jobs set to be created, along with students, researchers and tourists all set to walk through its doors, which benefits the entire region.”

    Quotes attributable to Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie:

    “We’re proud to partner with the University of Sunshine Coast to deliver this critical infrastructure on the Hervey Bay foreshore. 

    “Queenslanders voted for a fresh start and the State Government is committed to partnering with local government to deliver local projects that create jobs, provide long-term economic benefits and improve the lifestyle of Queenslanders no matter where they live.”

    Quotes attributable to Fraser Coast Mayor, George Seymour:

    “This facility will benefit the region’s wildlife, university students and the broader community, including Butchulla traditional owners.

    “This is an excellent partnership between all three levels of government, community groups and the University of the Sunshine Coast.

    “The turtles are an endangered species, so it is important that we research what has been happening to the local population that has caused the large number of fatalities and casualties.”

    Quotes attributable to University of the Sunshine Coast Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett 

    “We are pleased to formally announce the name for the new centre, which will give our threatened turtles the greatest opportunity for survival, is the ‘UniSC Milbi Centre – Sea Turtle Research and Rehabilitation’. 

    “Milbi is the Butchulla word for sea turtle and the Dayman Park site where the centre is located holds great cultural significance for the Butchulla people and their deep connection with the Milbi and other sea and land creatures. 

    “This is reflected in the design and operation of the centre, where Butchulla Land and Sea Rangers will help to care for rescued sea turtles on country, and science and Indigenous knowledge will combine to fill gaps in our local and global understanding of marine turtles.

    “Six of the world’s seven species of marine turtles are found in the region – all listed as vulnerable or endangered – and are ecologically and genetically linked to other parts of Australia and the wider Pacific region.

    “To rescue and care for marine turtles is vitally important, as is research to better understand the cause of strandings and deaths, and to increase their chances of survival once they are rehabilitated and returned safely to the sea. 

    “This centre will be a hub for vital research that will help to inform local, state, national and international responses to mitigate threats to marine turtles, including disease and climate change.

    “Ongoing funding support from governments, organisations and the community is vital for our endangered sea turtles.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New centre to protect Fraser Coast turtles breaks ground

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Work has started on the Fraser Coast Turtle Rehabilitation and Research Centre dedicated to the recovery of sick and injured marine turtles and vital research on the threats they face.

    Led by the University of the Sunshine Coast, the centre on the Hervey Bay foreshore will transform care for many at-risk marine turtles, removing the need to transport them several hours to receive life-saving treatment.

    More than 1,400 turtles have been rescued on the Fraser Coast over the past two years, with more than 300 needing specialist care at the nearest rehabilitation facility on the Sunshine Coast. 

    The project will retrofit existing buildings with a new fit-for-purpose facility including a specialist turtle life support system and indoor tanks to care for sick and injured sea turtles.

    The Centre will also be a hub for researchers investigating the general health of marine life across the wider region, and the emerging threats they face, including a deadly “soft shell syndrome”, which is plaguing the local turtle population.

    The Australian Government is providing $250,000 funding for the works with the Queensland Government allocating $1.17 million.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm:

    “Queensland is home to some of the world’s most diverse marine wildlife and this $250,000 investment will help safeguard the Fraser Coast’s turtle populations for future generations.

    “This facility will also boost the local economy with an estimated 15 jobs set to be created, along with students, researchers and tourists all set to walk through its doors, which benefits the entire region.”

    Quotes attributable to Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie:

    “We’re proud to partner with the University of Sunshine Coast to deliver this critical infrastructure on the Hervey Bay foreshore. 

    “Queenslanders voted for a fresh start and the State Government is committed to partnering with local government to deliver local projects that create jobs, provide long-term economic benefits and improve the lifestyle of Queenslanders no matter where they live.”

    Quotes attributable to Fraser Coast Mayor, George Seymour:

    “This facility will benefit the region’s wildlife, university students and the broader community, including Butchulla traditional owners.

    “This is an excellent partnership between all three levels of government, community groups and the University of the Sunshine Coast.

    “The turtles are an endangered species, so it is important that we research what has been happening to the local population that has caused the large number of fatalities and casualties.”

    Quotes attributable to University of the Sunshine Coast Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett 

    “We are pleased to formally announce the name for the new centre, which will give our threatened turtles the greatest opportunity for survival, is the ‘UniSC Milbi Centre – Sea Turtle Research and Rehabilitation’. 

    “Milbi is the Butchulla word for sea turtle and the Dayman Park site where the centre is located holds great cultural significance for the Butchulla people and their deep connection with the Milbi and other sea and land creatures. 

    “This is reflected in the design and operation of the centre, where Butchulla Land and Sea Rangers will help to care for rescued sea turtles on country, and science and Indigenous knowledge will combine to fill gaps in our local and global understanding of marine turtles.

    “Six of the world’s seven species of marine turtles are found in the region – all listed as vulnerable or endangered – and are ecologically and genetically linked to other parts of Australia and the wider Pacific region.

    “To rescue and care for marine turtles is vitally important, as is research to better understand the cause of strandings and deaths, and to increase their chances of survival once they are rehabilitated and returned safely to the sea. 

    “This centre will be a hub for vital research that will help to inform local, state, national and international responses to mitigate threats to marine turtles, including disease and climate change.

    “Ongoing funding support from governments, organisations and the community is vital for our endangered sea turtles.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fresh stats reinforce tourism’s contribution to the economy

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New figures out today again reinforce the importance of tourism to sustained economic growth, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.

    International Visitor Survey results for the year ending December 2024 show a significant increase of 23 per cent in annual visitor spend. 

    “These figures are further encouragement for a sector which continues to work really hard to regain its pre-2019 ground,” Louise Upston says.

    “While the annual visitor spend is still below pre-pandemic levels, it’s clearly on the rise. 

    “Today’s MBIE numbers show that international visitors spent $12.2 billion in New Zealand in 2024, including $3.2 billion in the December quarter alone. When adjusted for inflation, this is 86 per cent of 2019 levels.

    “The increase in spending aligns with a higher number of international visitors to our shores, up 12 per cent from the previous year.  

    “Visitors on holiday typically spend more than those visiting for other reasons, and because there were more international holidaymakers in 2024, that drove up the overall spend.

    “While different data sets and time periods mean some differences between these figures and those released with the Tourism Satellite Account last week, the consistent message across both is one of positive recovery for tourism in New Zealand. 

    “The International Visitor Survey is our most up to date dataset to track international visitor spending.

    “The Government has a clear priority to unleash economic growth and getting our visitor numbers back to pre-pandemic levels will be critical to that goal. Economic growth is also key to creating more jobs and higher incomes and reducing the cost of living

    “The initiatives we’ve already launched under the Tourism Boost package, including those to support our off-peak travel and regional tourism, will ensure that our tourism industry recovers and thrives.

    “We’ve recently announced

    • $500,000 for marketing New Zealand as the ‘go now’ destination for Australians
    • $30 million to support conservation visitor related experiences
    • $3 million for regional tourism boost
    • $9 million for Great Rides cycle infrastructure

    “That drive to encourage more visitors was also reflected during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Viet Nam, where Vietjet announced four flights a week between Auckland and Ho Chi Minh City from September.

    “There will be more to come. 2025 is our chance to reinforce the value of tourism to a humming, vibrant country, where we welcome anyone, from anywhere, anytime,” Louise Upston says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner Invites Fired Fredericksburg Park Ranger to State of the Union

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) today announced that Ms. Ashley Ranalli of Fredericksburg will attend as his guest to President Trump’s joint address to Congress on Tuesday, March 4. Ms. Ranalli was employed as a National Park Service (NPS) ranger at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park until last month, when – despite exemplary performance reviews – she became one of an estimated 1,000-plus Park Service workers who were indiscriminately fired by the Trump administration due to their “probationary” employment status, joining thousands of other federal workers who were fired without cause as part of Elon Musk and President Trump’s attacks on the workforce. Ms. Ranalli, 41, is a survivor of thyroid cancer and now has no health insurance.

    “Ashley Ranalli is one of the many dedicated public servants who have been forced out of their jobs serving Americans by President Trump and Elon Musk. Our national parks are places where we connect with nature, our shared history and one another, and that is made possible by the hard work of national park rangers, whose dedication, expertise, and passion not only safeguard our landscapes and wildlife but also help preserve the stories and history that make these places so special. These indiscriminate cuts of Park Service personnel are devastating to the parks and their local communities,” said Sen. Warner. “I am glad that Ashley is able to join as my guest for the address to Congress, so that President Trump can look out into the audience and face a Virginian directly affected by his short-sighted and reckless choices.”

    “Becoming a national park ranger was my dream and after years of dedication and hard work, it finally became a reality, only to be ripped away,” said Ms. Ranalli. “I am devastated by the effect the purge of federal employees has had on Fredericksburg, a community that I love and which relies upon federal workers and tourism dollars from the national park. When I come to Washington, I hope to represent not just my fellow park rangers, but also to be a voice for the people, communities and small businesses that are suffering because of political choices being made in our nation’s capital.”

    When Ashley Ranalli was hired as a volunteer and youth program coordinator at the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park in the fall, it was the culmination of years of effort and hard work. Prior to becoming a park ranger, Ashley was a public school English teacher who spent her summers working as a seasonal worker for the National Park Service, living away from her family at various NPS sites in Virginia in order to demonstrate commitment to the job and distinguish herself from a pool of largely younger candidates. On February 14, she received a layoff notice from the Department of the Interior, despite a recent performance review that described her work as “excellent” and “outstanding,” and which noted that she “goes the extra mile” when working with visitors, volunteers, and colleagues.

    While the administration has declined to make public the exact scope of the cuts at NPS and the duties and locations of those affected by the layoffs, the National Parks Conservation Association estimates that in a period of just weeks, nine percent of NPS staff have been lost to mass firings and resignations, in addition to hundreds of vacant positions that can’t be filled due to the ongoing hiring freeze. In addition, the National Park Service has been directed to identify more cuts as part of the larger Reduction in Force (RIF) efforts.

    Warner is the author of the Great American Outdoors Act, one of the largest-ever investments in conservation and public lands in our nation’s history. Signed into law by President Trump in 2020, the bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act provided billions of dollars to improve infrastructure and expand recreation opportunities in national parks and other public lands after years of underinvestment led a massive backlog in needed maintenance and repairs to Park Service sites. In Virginia alone, Warner’s Great American Outdoors Act has provided over $470 million for projects at Virginia’s 22 park service units and supported thousands of jobs – investments that are now being undermined by the Trump administration’s reckless layoffs that threaten safe operations at the parks ahead of the peak summer season. Last month, Warner led the Virginia delegation in writing the Secretary of the Interior, pushing the administration to reverse the cuts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australian Deputy PM: Over $200 million boost to South Tassie roads

    Source: Minister of Infrastructure

    The Albanese Government is building Tasmania’s future, investing nearly $213 million to upgrade critical highways and build active transport routes across the south east of the state.  

    This includes $204 million to improve the Arthur Highway and widen the Sorell Rivulet Bridge. 

    The Arthur Highway and Sorell Rivulet Bridge form the main access route between Port Arthur, Sorell and Hobart, providing a critical corridor for residents and tourists between some of the state’s most popular and populous destinations. 

    This investment will ease congestion for a growing community, as well as benefit agricultural and water supply businesses, tourists and local residents. 

    Funding will go towards safety upgrades including overtaking lanes, intersection improvements, and road modifications to enhance traffic flow such as shoulder widening and changes to lane configuration. It is expected to also include works to enable active and public transport as well as better signage and tourism pullover areas. 

    The Brooker Highway will also receive a $4 million investment to enable planning for critical safety and efficiency improvements. This will focus on identifying works that are most needed to improve safety, capacity, and resilience, and support active travel on one of Hobart’s major arterial roads.

    An additional $2 million has also been committed to undertake further public transport planning on the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor. This is part of the Albanese Government’s now $40.5 million investment in enhancing public transport infrastructure across Hobart.

    Along with roads and public transport, the Albanese Government is better connecting communities by delivering walking and cycling paths. 

    Almost $3 million will be invested under the Active Transport Fund in two new projects across the south east of the state to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths:

    • More than $2.2 million for the Tasman Council for a four-kilometre multi-use walking track connecting the towns of Nubeena and White Beach, south-east of Hobart; 
    • Almost $500,000 for Brighton Council to design and build a new shared path connecting to the existing path along the East Derwent Highway and to the new Bridgewater Bridge. This project also includes an extension of the path along Glenstone Road in Brighton, linking it to the pathway network within the Brighton township.

    We have brought forward $15.6 million of funding for the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranche 4 – Network project, which has a total Australian Government commitment of $81.6 million. This will allow the ongoing delivery of improved network performance and assurance of supply chains for Tasmania’s largest freight producers.

    The Albanese Government is making our cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns. 

    The new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that mean more people have the chance to walk, cycle or push a pram to work, school and anywhere else. 

    More information on the Active Transport Fund is available at Active Transport Fund | Infrastructure Investment Program.

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

    “The Albanese Government is investing in the transport projects that matter most to Tasmanians, upgrading the state’s critical highways including the Bass, Tasman, Arthur, Esk and Brooker Highways. 

    “We’re making Tasmania’s roads safer, stronger and more efficient which means convenient commutes and faster freight.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons Brian Mitchell: 

    “These projects add to the Albanese Labor Government’s infrastructure investments throughout regional Tasmania.  

    “In Lyons for example, the Albanese Government is also investing $10 million towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass.

    “It is projects like these that are making our roads safer and improving driver experiences.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Over $200 million boost to South Tassie roads

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    The Albanese Government is building Tasmania’s future, investing nearly $213 million to upgrade critical highways and build active transport routes across the south east of the state.  

    This includes $204 million to improve the Arthur Highway and widen the Sorell Rivulet Bridge. 

    The Arthur Highway and Sorell Rivulet Bridge form the main access route between Port Arthur, Sorell and Hobart, providing a critical corridor for residents and tourists between some of the state’s most popular and populous destinations. 

    This investment will ease congestion for a growing community, as well as benefit agricultural and water supply businesses, tourists and local residents. 

    Funding will go towards safety upgrades including overtaking lanes, intersection improvements, and road modifications to enhance traffic flow such as shoulder widening and changes to lane configuration. It is expected to also include works to enable active and public transport as well as better signage and tourism pullover areas. 

    The Brooker Highway will also receive a $4 million investment to enable planning for critical safety and efficiency improvements. This will focus on identifying works that are most needed to improve safety, capacity, and resilience, and support active travel on one of Hobart’s major arterial roads.

    An additional $2 million has also been committed to undertake further public transport planning on the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor. This is part of the Albanese Government’s now $40.5 million investment in enhancing public transport infrastructure across Hobart.

    Along with roads and public transport, the Albanese Government is better connecting communities by delivering walking and cycling paths. 

    Almost $3 million will be invested under the Active Transport Fund in two new projects across the south east of the state to build new or upgrade existing bicycle and walking paths:

    • More than $2.2 million for the Tasman Council for a four-kilometre multi-use walking track connecting the towns of Nubeena and White Beach, south-east of Hobart; 
    • Almost $500,000 for Brighton Council to design and build a new shared path connecting to the existing path along the East Derwent Highway and to the new Bridgewater Bridge. This project also includes an extension of the path along Glenstone Road in Brighton, linking it to the pathway network within the Brighton township.

    We have brought forward $15.6 million of funding for the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranche 4 – Network project, which has a total Australian Government commitment of $81.6 million. This will allow the ongoing delivery of improved network performance and assurance of supply chains for Tasmania’s largest freight producers.

    The Albanese Government is making our cities and regions even better places to live, building social infrastructure, connecting place and designing healthier, more liveable towns. 

    The new Active Transport Fund is one part of this, providing safe and accessible transport options that mean more people have the chance to walk, cycle or push a pram to work, school and anywhere else. 

    More information on the Active Transport Fund is available at Active Transport Fund | Infrastructure Investment Program.

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

    “The Albanese Government is investing in the transport projects that matter most to Tasmanians, upgrading the state’s critical highways including the Bass, Tasman, Arthur, Esk and Brooker Highways. 

    “We’re making Tasmania’s roads safer, stronger and more efficient which means convenient commutes and faster freight.”

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons Brian Mitchell: 

    “These projects add to the Albanese Labor Government’s infrastructure investments throughout regional Tasmania.  

    “In Lyons for example, the Albanese Government is also investing $10 million towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass.

    “It is projects like these that are making our roads safer and improving driver experiences.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Upgrade to tourist experience on Stewart Island

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Upgraded tourism ventures on Rakiura Stewart Island promise a world-class experience for visitors, with enhanced guided nature walks and improved facilities, says Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson. 
    Mr Patterson is on Stewart Island today, joining locals to celebrate the completion of the Rakiura Oneke Southern Wilderness Experience.
    “The realisation of this project on Stewart Island is monumental. The people here have been holding this project in their hearts for many years, and it’s incredible to see the work finally completed. It’s a testament to the dedication this close-knit community has to their home,” says Mr Patterson.
    Rakiura Māori Lands Trust (RMLT) was approved for grant and loan funding from the Provincial Growth Fund, totalling $2.18 million in 2020, to support the development of tourism infrastructure. The Trust provided funding to upgrade conservation efforts at Oneke (also known as ‘The Neck’), a remote area on Stewart Island that hosts an abundance of native wildlife and incredible coastal landscapes. 
    “Thanks to the new walking track at Oneke, visitors can take guided walks to discover the area’s early history and natural wonders. There’s also a new wharf, whare and shelter facilities. This infrastructure will support tourism on Oneke well into the future.
    “Stewart Island has long been a habitat for native flora and fauna, and restoring the biodiversity of the land back to its natural state has been a priority for RMLT for many years. The new developments contribute to the continued work being done to restore the biodiversity at Oneke, with upgraded predator-proof fencing and biosecurity measures,” says Mr Patterson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Federal funding set to improve Queensland’s regional airports

    Source: Australian Executive Government Ministers

    The Albanese Government will invest over $6 million to bring 11 regional airport projects to life across Queensland, under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program. 

    Airports are vital for regional communities, providing critical access to emergency healthcare, as well as commerce, industry, tourism and education. 

    These projects will include runway, apron and taxiway upgrades, lighting installation, generator replacements and drainage works – which will improve airport safety and enhance accessibility. 

    In Hervey Bay, $234,631 will support Fraser Coast Regional Council to replace the perimeter fencing and emergency generator at Hervey Bay Airport. 

    This will ensure the airport’s ongoing safety and security, which provides vital aviation access for the community, tourism, essential workers and medical flights.

    In Roma, nearly $1.16 million will flow to Maranoa Regional Council to upgrade the general aviation apron at Roma Airport, to support reliable and safer access for aero‑medical, firefighting, charter, freight, tourism and other general aviation services.  

    Other works to be funded under Round 4 in Queensland include: 

    • More than $1 million for the Gladstone Airport Corporation to construct a fit-for-purpose patient transfer facility at Gladstone Airport, primarily to be used by the Royal Flying Doctor Service. 

    • $795,097 for Gympie Regional Council to reseal the runway and taxiway, strengthen the apron, and do line marking and drainage works at Gympie Aerodrome, to improve pilot and aircraft safety while ensuring reliable access to the airstrip. 

    • $426,196 for Southern Downs Regional Council to upgrade the lighting system at Stanthorpe Aerodrome, to meet safety standards and improve usability by aircraft – especially during low visibility conditions and night operations.

    More information on the Regional Airports Program, including a full list of Round 4 projects in Queensland, can be found here. 

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

    “We know how vital regional airports are to the communities they service, ensuring access to other towns, to markets, and to vital services such as emergency health care. 

    “That’s why we are investing in safety and other upgrades at regional airports across Queensland, to ensure they can continue to service communities for years to come.” 

    Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:

    “Regional airports are critical for a decentralised state like Queensland. They’re a gateway for tourism and help connect locals with the rest of the country. 

    “Our funding to replace the perimeter fencing and emergency generator here Hervey Bay Airport will back the airport’s ongoing operations by boosting safety and security. 

    “This is just one of 11 projects we’re investing in across Queensland under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, which will make a real difference for communities.”

    Quotes attributable to Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor, George Seymour: 

    “The Hervey Bay Airport is an essential link for our region, providing essential services for tourism, business, and emergency medical flights. 

    “This funding will allow Council to replace the aging emergency generator, ensuring the airport remains operational during power outages and severe weather events. Upgrading the security fencing will also strengthen safety and compliance, helping to protect passengers, staff, and aircraft operations. 

    “These improvements will enhance the airport’s long-term sustainability and ensure it continues to serve our growing community well into the future.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Malaysia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    March 3, 2025

    Washington, DC: On February 25, 2025, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation[1] with Malaysia and endorsed the staff appraisal without a meeting on a lapse-of-time basis.[2]

    Malaysia’s economic performance has improved significantly in 2024. The economy grew by 5.2 percent (y/y) in the first three quarters of 2024, supported by strong private consumption, buoyant investment, improvements in external demand for electrical and electronic products, and a recovery in tourism. Labor market conditions have been strong, with the unemployment rate low at 3.2 percent in 2024Q3. Meanwhile, inflation has been stable around 2 percent, and the ringgit appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 2.6 percent in 2024.

    Current policies are focused on rebuilding fiscal buffers, augmenting growth potential, and strengthening social protection while preserving macroeconomic and financial stability. The landmark Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), enacted in 2023, aims to strengthen fiscal management and governance. Fiscal consolidation continued in 2024, with the overall fiscal deficit estimated to have declined from 5.0 percent of GDP in 2023 to the budget target of 4.3 percent of GDP in 2024, supported by subsidy reforms and strengthening of the sales and service tax. Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has kept the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) unchanged at 3.0 percent since May 2023. Under the Economy MADANI Framework, the authorities have developed a set of concerted policy frameworks that focus on increasing incomes, addressing climate change, promoting digitalization, and enhancing governance.

    Executive Board Assessment

    In concluding the Article IV consultation with Malaysia, Executive Directors endorsed the staff’s appraisal as follows:

    Malaysia’s favorable economic conditions provide a window of opportunity to build macroeconomic policy buffers and accelerate structural reforms. Malaysia’s strong growth momentum is expected to be sustained in the near term, with growth projected at 4.7 percent in 2025. Inflation, which eased to 1.8 percent in 2024, is projected to increase to 2.6 percent in 2025 on account of the anticipated implementation of gasoline subsidy reforms, before moderating to 2.3 percent in 2026. Malaysia’s external position in 2024 is preliminarily assessed to be stronger than the level implied by medium-term fundamentals and desirable policies.

    Risks to growth, mostly external, are tilted to the downside, while inflation risks are tilted to the upside. Downside external risks include deepening geoeconomic fragmentation, a growth slowdown in major trading partners, and intensification of geopolitical conflicts, while upside growth risks include faster implementation of investment projects. The upside risks to the inflation outlook stem from global commodity price shocks and potential wage pressures from increases in minimum wage and civil servants’ pay.

    Fiscal consolidation should continue to rebuild buffers and achieve the medium-term targets set under the FRA. Staff recommends achieving a small structural primary balance by 2027. Building on successful subsidy reforms, including for electricity and diesel, staff recommends gradually phasing out remaining fuel subsidies. Revenue mobilization efforts toward a more broad-based and efficient tax system are warranted. Reintroducing the GST could help achieve this goal. The associated impact of fiscal reforms on vulnerable households should be mitigated by well-targeted cash transfers. Staff welcomes the historic enactment of the FRA and recommends its swift and thorough implementation.

    The current neutral monetary policy stance is appropriate. Going forward, monetary policy should remain data dependent. BNM should stand ready to tighten monetary policy if upside inflation risks materialize. Maintaining exchange rate flexibility is essential.

    Financial systemic risks appear contained, and the financial sector remains sound. Banks’ capital and liquidity positions are robust. Credit growth, corporate and household balance sheets, and real estate markets do not pose systemic risks at this juncture. Continued vigilance is warranted against pockets of more highly leveraged borrowers, interlinkages between banks and non-bank financial institutions, and climate and cyber risks—although spillover risks from these areas remain contained. Given the strong growth and accommodative financial conditions, pre-emptive broadening of the macroprudential policy toolkit could be considered.

    Staff encourages swift implementation of the structural reform initiatives to enhance productivity and inclusive growth. The ongoing development of the PADU digital registry can help strengthen social safety nets and public service delivery. Investment incentives to promote high-growth and high-value industries should be well-targeted and ring-fenced. Further efforts are warranted toward Malaysia’s transition to net-zero emissions and readiness for Artificial Intelligence. Staff welcomes the authorities’ efforts to strengthen governance and the anti-corruption framework.

    Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2020–30

    Nominal GDP (2023): US$399.7 billion

    		      

     Population (2023): 33.4 million

    		            

    GDP per capita (2023, current prices): US$11,967

    		      

     Poverty rate (2019, national poverty line): 0.2 percent

    		        

    Unemployment rate (2023, period average):  3.4 percent

    		      

     Adult literacy rate (2019): 95.0 percent

    		          
                             

    Main domestic goods exports (share of total domestic exports, 2023): Machinery and Transport Equipment (45.6 percent), Manufactured Goods and Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles (19.0 percent), and Mineral Fuels, Lubricants etc. (16.5 percent).
                 
           
               

    Proj.
       

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    1/
                             

    Real GDP (percent change)

    		  

    -5.5

    3.3

    8.9

    3.6

    5.0

    4.7

    4.4

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    Total domestic demand

    		  

    -4.8

    3.8

    9.5

    4.7

    6.1

    4.7

    4.0

    3.6

    3.6

    3.6

    3.4

    Private consumption

    		  

    -3.9

    1.8

    11.3

    4.7

    5.3

    4.5

    3.9

    3.4

    3.9

    3.8

    3.7

    Public consumption

    		  

    4.1

    5.8

    5.1

    3.3

    4.3

    3.5

    2.7

    2.4

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    Private investment

    		  

    -11.9

    2.8

    7.2

    4.6

    12.0

    6.0

    5.1

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    Public gross fixed capital formation

    		  

    -21.2

    -11.0

    5.3

    8.6

    11.2

    4.0

    2.8

    2.3

    2.1

    2.0

    2.1

    Net exports (contribution to growth, percentage points)

    		  

    -1.0

    -0.3

    -0.1

    -0.9

    -0.8

    0.2

    0.5

    0.6

    0.5

    0.6

    0.7
                             

    Output gap (in percent)

    		  

    -4.0

    -1.1

    2.5

    1.3

    1.1

    0.7

    0.4

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0
                             

    Saving and investment (in percent of GDP)

    		                        

    Gross domestic investment

    		  

    19.7

    22.1

    23.6

    22.5

    22.5

    22.5

    22.6

    22.6

    22.5

    22.5

    22.5

    Gross national saving

    		  

    23.8

    26.0

    26.8

    24.0

    24.5

    24.7

    25.0

    25.3

    25.4

    25.5

    25.5
                             

    Fiscal sector (in percent of GDP) 2/

    		                        

    Federal government overall balance

    		  

    -6.2

    -6.4

    -5.5

    -5.0

    -4.3

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    Revenue

    		  

    15.9

    15.1

    16.4

    17.3

    16.5

    16.2

    15.4

    15.1

    14.8

    14.6

    14.4

    Expenditure and net lending

    		  

    22.0

    21.5

    22.0

    22.3

    20.8

    20.0

    19.2

    18.9

    18.6

    18.4

    18.2

    Federal government non-oil primary balance

    		  

    -7.5

    -6.7

    -7.8

    -6.6

    -4.9

    -4.1

    -3.7

    -3.4

    -3.0

    -2.8

    -2.6

    Consolidated public sector overall balance 3/

    		  

    -7.3

    -8.3

    -6.0

    -5.9

    -8.4

    -6.7

    -6.8

    -6.9

    -6.8

    -6.9

    -6.9

    General government debt 3/

    		  

    67.7

    69.2

    65.5

    69.7

    69.6

    68.9

    68.7

    69.1

    69.3

    69.6

    69.8

    Of which: federal government debt

    		  

    62.0

    63.3

    60.2

    64.3

    64.4

    63.7

    63.5

    63.8

    64.1

    64.3

    64.5
                             
                             

    Inflation and unemployment (in percent)

    		                        

    CPI inflation, annual average

    		  

    -1.2

    2.5

    3.4

    2.5

    1.8

    2.6

    2.3

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    CPI inflation, end of period

    		  

    -1.4

    3.2

    3.8

    1.5

    1.7

    3.8

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    CPI inflation (excluding food and energy), annual average

    		  

    1.1

    0.7

    3.0

    3.0

    1.8

    2.4

    2.2

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    CPI inflation (excluding food and energy), end of period

    		  

    0.7

    1.1

    4.1

    1.9

    1.6

    3.8

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    Unemployment rate

    		  

    4.5

    4.6

    3.9

    3.4

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2
                             
                             

    Macrofinancial variables (end of period)

    		                        

    Broad money (percentage change) 4/

    		  

    4.9

    5.6

    4.0

    5.8

    7.1

    7.6

    6.7

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    Credit to private sector (percentage change) 4/

    		  

    4.0

    3.8

    3.0

    5.2

    6.2

    6.1

    6.0

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    Credit-to-GDP ratio (in percent) 5/ 6/

    		  

    144.8

    137.7

    122.4

    126.7

    125.7

    123.9

    123.1

    123.1

    123.1

    123.1

    123.1

    Overnight policy rate (in percent)

    		  

    1.75

    1.75

    2.75

    3.00

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Three-month interbank rate (in percent)

    		  

    1.9

    2.0

    3.6

    3.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Nonfinancial corporate sector debt (in percent of GDP) 7/

    		  

    109.7

    109.0

    97.5

    101.2

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Nonfinancial corporate sector debt issuance (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    2.3

    2.6

    2.4

    2.5

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Household debt (in percent of GDP) 7/

    		  

    93.1

    88.9

    80.9

    84.2

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Household financial assets (in percent of GDP) 7/

    		  

    204.5

    191.9

    167.3

    174.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    House prices (percentage change)

    		  

    1.2

    1.9

    3.9

    3.8

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
                             
                             

    Exchange rates (period average)

    		                        

    Malaysian ringgit/U.S. dollar

    		  

    4.19

    4.14

    4.40

    4.56

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Real effective exchange rate (percentage change)

    		  

    -3.5

    -1.3

    -1.4

    -2.5

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
                             
                             

    Balance of payments (in billions of U.S. dollars) 5/

    		                        

    Current account balance

    		  

    14.1

    14.5

    13.0

    6.2

    8.7

    10.2

    12.0

    14.3

    16.1

    17.6

    19.4

    (In percent of GDP)

    		  

    4.2

    3.9

    3.2

    1.5

    2.0

    2.2

    2.4

    2.7

    2.9

    3.0

    3.1

    Goods balance

    		  

    32.7

    42.9

    42.6

    29.9

    26.3

    29.3

    31.8

    33.9

    36.5

    39.2

    43.7

    Services balance

    		  

    -11.2

    -15.8

    -13.2

    -9.5

    -4.4

    -4.1

    -3.1

    -1.7

    -1.3

    -1.0

    -1.5

    Income balance

    		  

    -7.4

    -12.5

    -16.3

    -14.2

    -13.2

    -14.9

    -16.7

    -17.9

    -19.2

    -20.6

    -22.8

    Capital and financial account balance

    		  

    -18.5

    3.8

    1.8

    -3.4

    -6.0

    0.2

    -3.0

    -5.0

    -6.2

    -7.1

    -8.2

    Of which: Direct investment

    		  

    0.7

    7.5

    2.9

    0.0

    -1.3

    2.0

    2.1

    2.2

    2.4

    2.5

    2.6

    Errors and omissions

    		  

    -0.1

    -7.3

    -2.7

    -7.2

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Overall balance

    		  

    -4.6

    11.0

    12.1

    -4.5

    2.7

    10.4

    9.0

    9.3

    9.9

    10.6

    11.2
                             

    Gross official reserves (US$ billions) 5/

    		  

    107.6

    116.9

    114.7

    113.5

    116.2

    126.6

    135.6

    144.9

    154.8

    165.4

    176.6

    (In months of following year’s imports of goods and nonfactor services)

    		  

    5.5

    4.9

    5.4

    4.6

    4.4

    4.6

    4.7

    4.8

    4.9

    4.9

    5.0

    (In percent of short-term debt by original maturity)

    		  

    117.6

    120.8

    104.9

    100.3

    99.4

    98.3

    97.2

    97.0

    97.3

    97.9

    98.9

    (In percent of short-term debt by remaining maturity)

    		  

    91.9

    93.5

    84.6

    80.7

    78.7

    79.4

    79.0

    79.2

    79.7

    80.5

    81.5

    Total external debt (in billions of U.S. dollars) 5/

    		  

    238.8

    258.7

    259.6

    270.6

    284.6

    305.1

    324.4

    342.8

    361.1

    379.2

    397.2

    (In percent of GDP)

    		  

    70.8

    69.3

    63.8

    67.8

    65.1

    65.3

    65.1

    64.9

    64.4

    63.8

    63.0

    Of which: short-term (in percent of total, original maturity)

    		  

    38.3

    37.4

    42.1

    41.8

    41.1

    42.2

    43.0

    43.6

    44.1

    44.6

    44.9

      short-term (in percent of total, remaining maturity)

    		  

    49.1

    48.3

    52.2

    51.9

    51.9

    52.3

    52.9

    53.4

    53.8

    54.2

    54.5

    Debt service ratio 5/

    		                        

    (In percent of exports of goods and services) 8/

    		  

    13.6

    10.5

    9.7

    11.8

    12.1

    12.1

    10.1

    9.8

    9.7

    9.6

    9.5

    (In percent of exports of goods and nonfactor services)

    		  

    14.4

    11.4

    10.3

    12.7

    12.9

    12.9

    10.7

    10.4

    10.3

    10.2

    10.0
                             
                             

    Memorandum items:

    		                        

    Nominal GDP (in billions of ringgit)

    		  

    1,418

    1,549

    1,794

    1,823

    1,952

    2,099

    2,241

    2,373

    2,512

    2,660

    2,817
                             

    Sources: Data provided by the authorities; CEIC Data; World Bank; UNESCO; and IMF, Integrated Monetary Database, and staff estimates.
                             

    1/ Data used in this report for staff analyses are as of January 29, 2025, unless otherwise noted.
    2/ Cash basis.
    3/ Consolidated public sector includes general government and nonfinancial public enterprises (NFPEs). General government includes federal government, state and local governments, and statutory bodies.
    4/ Based on data provided by the authorities, but follows compilation methodology used in IMF’s Integrated Monetary Database. Credit to private sector in 2018 onwards includes data for a newly licensed commercial bank from April 2018. The impact of this bank is excluded in the calculation of credit gap.
    5/ IMF staff estimates. U.S. dollar values are estimated using official data published in national currency.                                                                                                                         
    6/ Based on a broader measure of liquidity. Credit gap is estimated on quarterly data from 2000, using one-sided Hodrick-Prescott filter with a large parameter.
    7/ Revisions in historical data reflect the change in base year for nominal GDP (from 2010=100 to 2015=100).
    8/ Includes receipts under the primary income account.
                               

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pavis Devahasadin

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/03/02/pr25050-malaysia-imf-executive-board-concludes-2025-article-iv-consultation

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Executive Board Concludes 2025 Article IV Consultation with Malaysia

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    March 3, 2025

    Washington, DC: On February 25, 2025, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation[1] with Malaysia and endorsed the staff appraisal without a meeting on a lapse-of-time basis.[2]

    Malaysia’s economic performance has improved significantly in 2024. The economy grew by 5.2 percent (y/y) in the first three quarters of 2024, supported by strong private consumption, buoyant investment, improvements in external demand for electrical and electronic products, and a recovery in tourism. Labor market conditions have been strong, with the unemployment rate low at 3.2 percent in 2024Q3. Meanwhile, inflation has been stable around 2 percent, and the ringgit appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 2.6 percent in 2024.

    Current policies are focused on rebuilding fiscal buffers, augmenting growth potential, and strengthening social protection while preserving macroeconomic and financial stability. The landmark Public Finance and Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), enacted in 2023, aims to strengthen fiscal management and governance. Fiscal consolidation continued in 2024, with the overall fiscal deficit estimated to have declined from 5.0 percent of GDP in 2023 to the budget target of 4.3 percent of GDP in 2024, supported by subsidy reforms and strengthening of the sales and service tax. Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has kept the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) unchanged at 3.0 percent since May 2023. Under the Economy MADANI Framework, the authorities have developed a set of concerted policy frameworks that focus on increasing incomes, addressing climate change, promoting digitalization, and enhancing governance.

    Executive Board Assessment

    In concluding the Article IV consultation with Malaysia, Executive Directors endorsed the staff’s appraisal as follows:

    Malaysia’s favorable economic conditions provide a window of opportunity to build macroeconomic policy buffers and accelerate structural reforms. Malaysia’s strong growth momentum is expected to be sustained in the near term, with growth projected at 4.7 percent in 2025. Inflation, which eased to 1.8 percent in 2024, is projected to increase to 2.6 percent in 2025 on account of the anticipated implementation of gasoline subsidy reforms, before moderating to 2.3 percent in 2026. Malaysia’s external position in 2024 is preliminarily assessed to be stronger than the level implied by medium-term fundamentals and desirable policies.

    Risks to growth, mostly external, are tilted to the downside, while inflation risks are tilted to the upside. Downside external risks include deepening geoeconomic fragmentation, a growth slowdown in major trading partners, and intensification of geopolitical conflicts, while upside growth risks include faster implementation of investment projects. The upside risks to the inflation outlook stem from global commodity price shocks and potential wage pressures from increases in minimum wage and civil servants’ pay.

    Fiscal consolidation should continue to rebuild buffers and achieve the medium-term targets set under the FRA. Staff recommends achieving a small structural primary balance by 2027. Building on successful subsidy reforms, including for electricity and diesel, staff recommends gradually phasing out remaining fuel subsidies. Revenue mobilization efforts toward a more broad-based and efficient tax system are warranted. Reintroducing the GST could help achieve this goal. The associated impact of fiscal reforms on vulnerable households should be mitigated by well-targeted cash transfers. Staff welcomes the historic enactment of the FRA and recommends its swift and thorough implementation.

    The current neutral monetary policy stance is appropriate. Going forward, monetary policy should remain data dependent. BNM should stand ready to tighten monetary policy if upside inflation risks materialize. Maintaining exchange rate flexibility is essential.

    Financial systemic risks appear contained, and the financial sector remains sound. Banks’ capital and liquidity positions are robust. Credit growth, corporate and household balance sheets, and real estate markets do not pose systemic risks at this juncture. Continued vigilance is warranted against pockets of more highly leveraged borrowers, interlinkages between banks and non-bank financial institutions, and climate and cyber risks—although spillover risks from these areas remain contained. Given the strong growth and accommodative financial conditions, pre-emptive broadening of the macroprudential policy toolkit could be considered.

    Staff encourages swift implementation of the structural reform initiatives to enhance productivity and inclusive growth. The ongoing development of the PADU digital registry can help strengthen social safety nets and public service delivery. Investment incentives to promote high-growth and high-value industries should be well-targeted and ring-fenced. Further efforts are warranted toward Malaysia’s transition to net-zero emissions and readiness for Artificial Intelligence. Staff welcomes the authorities’ efforts to strengthen governance and the anti-corruption framework.

    Selected Economic and Financial Indicators, 2020–30

    Nominal GDP (2023): US$399.7 billion

    		      

     Population (2023): 33.4 million

    		            

    GDP per capita (2023, current prices): US$11,967

    		      

     Poverty rate (2019, national poverty line): 0.2 percent

    		        

    Unemployment rate (2023, period average):  3.4 percent

    		      

     Adult literacy rate (2019): 95.0 percent

    		          
                             

    Main domestic goods exports (share of total domestic exports, 2023): Machinery and Transport Equipment (45.6 percent), Manufactured Goods and Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles (19.0 percent), and Mineral Fuels, Lubricants etc. (16.5 percent).
                 
           
               

    Proj.
       

    2020

    2021

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    1/
                             

    Real GDP (percent change)

    		  

    -5.5

    3.3

    8.9

    3.6

    5.0

    4.7

    4.4

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    Total domestic demand

    		  

    -4.8

    3.8

    9.5

    4.7

    6.1

    4.7

    4.0

    3.6

    3.6

    3.6

    3.4

    Private consumption

    		  

    -3.9

    1.8

    11.3

    4.7

    5.3

    4.5

    3.9

    3.4

    3.9

    3.8

    3.7

    Public consumption

    		  

    4.1

    5.8

    5.1

    3.3

    4.3

    3.5

    2.7

    2.4

    2.3

    2.3

    2.3

    Private investment

    		  

    -11.9

    2.8

    7.2

    4.6

    12.0

    6.0

    5.1

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    4.0

    Public gross fixed capital formation

    		  

    -21.2

    -11.0

    5.3

    8.6

    11.2

    4.0

    2.8

    2.3

    2.1

    2.0

    2.1

    Net exports (contribution to growth, percentage points)

    		  

    -1.0

    -0.3

    -0.1

    -0.9

    -0.8

    0.2

    0.5

    0.6

    0.5

    0.6

    0.7
                             

    Output gap (in percent)

    		  

    -4.0

    -1.1

    2.5

    1.3

    1.1

    0.7

    0.4

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0
                             

    Saving and investment (in percent of GDP)

    		                        

    Gross domestic investment

    		  

    19.7

    22.1

    23.6

    22.5

    22.5

    22.5

    22.6

    22.6

    22.5

    22.5

    22.5

    Gross national saving

    		  

    23.8

    26.0

    26.8

    24.0

    24.5

    24.7

    25.0

    25.3

    25.4

    25.5

    25.5
                             

    Fiscal sector (in percent of GDP) 2/

    		                        

    Federal government overall balance

    		  

    -6.2

    -6.4

    -5.5

    -5.0

    -4.3

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    -3.8

    Revenue

    		  

    15.9

    15.1

    16.4

    17.3

    16.5

    16.2

    15.4

    15.1

    14.8

    14.6

    14.4

    Expenditure and net lending

    		  

    22.0

    21.5

    22.0

    22.3

    20.8

    20.0

    19.2

    18.9

    18.6

    18.4

    18.2

    Federal government non-oil primary balance

    		  

    -7.5

    -6.7

    -7.8

    -6.6

    -4.9

    -4.1

    -3.7

    -3.4

    -3.0

    -2.8

    -2.6

    Consolidated public sector overall balance 3/

    		  

    -7.3

    -8.3

    -6.0

    -5.9

    -8.4

    -6.7

    -6.8

    -6.9

    -6.8

    -6.9

    -6.9

    General government debt 3/

    		  

    67.7

    69.2

    65.5

    69.7

    69.6

    68.9

    68.7

    69.1

    69.3

    69.6

    69.8

    Of which: federal government debt

    		  

    62.0

    63.3

    60.2

    64.3

    64.4

    63.7

    63.5

    63.8

    64.1

    64.3

    64.5
                             
                             

    Inflation and unemployment (in percent)

    		                        

    CPI inflation, annual average

    		  

    -1.2

    2.5

    3.4

    2.5

    1.8

    2.6

    2.3

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    CPI inflation, end of period

    		  

    -1.4

    3.2

    3.8

    1.5

    1.7

    3.8

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    CPI inflation (excluding food and energy), annual average

    		  

    1.1

    0.7

    3.0

    3.0

    1.8

    2.4

    2.2

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    CPI inflation (excluding food and energy), end of period

    		  

    0.7

    1.1

    4.1

    1.9

    1.6

    3.8

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    2.0

    Unemployment rate

    		  

    4.5

    4.6

    3.9

    3.4

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2

    3.2
                             
                             

    Macrofinancial variables (end of period)

    		                        

    Broad money (percentage change) 4/

    		  

    4.9

    5.6

    4.0

    5.8

    7.1

    7.6

    6.7

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    Credit to private sector (percentage change) 4/

    		  

    4.0

    3.8

    3.0

    5.2

    6.2

    6.1

    6.0

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    5.9

    Credit-to-GDP ratio (in percent) 5/ 6/

    		  

    144.8

    137.7

    122.4

    126.7

    125.7

    123.9

    123.1

    123.1

    123.1

    123.1

    123.1

    Overnight policy rate (in percent)

    		  

    1.75

    1.75

    2.75

    3.00

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Three-month interbank rate (in percent)

    		  

    1.9

    2.0

    3.6

    3.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Nonfinancial corporate sector debt (in percent of GDP) 7/

    		  

    109.7

    109.0

    97.5

    101.2

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Nonfinancial corporate sector debt issuance (in percent of GDP)

    		  

    2.3

    2.6

    2.4

    2.5

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Household debt (in percent of GDP) 7/

    		  

    93.1

    88.9

    80.9

    84.2

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Household financial assets (in percent of GDP) 7/

    		  

    204.5

    191.9

    167.3

    174.3

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    House prices (percentage change)

    		  

    1.2

    1.9

    3.9

    3.8

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
                             
                             

    Exchange rates (period average)

    		                        

    Malaysian ringgit/U.S. dollar

    		  

    4.19

    4.14

    4.40

    4.56

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Real effective exchange rate (percentage change)

    		  

    -3.5

    -1.3

    -1.4

    -2.5

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …

    …
                             
                             

    Balance of payments (in billions of U.S. dollars) 5/

    		                        

    Current account balance

    		  

    14.1

    14.5

    13.0

    6.2

    8.7

    10.2

    12.0

    14.3

    16.1

    17.6

    19.4

    (In percent of GDP)

    		  

    4.2

    3.9

    3.2

    1.5

    2.0

    2.2

    2.4

    2.7

    2.9

    3.0

    3.1

    Goods balance

    		  

    32.7

    42.9

    42.6

    29.9

    26.3

    29.3

    31.8

    33.9

    36.5

    39.2

    43.7

    Services balance

    		  

    -11.2

    -15.8

    -13.2

    -9.5

    -4.4

    -4.1

    -3.1

    -1.7

    -1.3

    -1.0

    -1.5

    Income balance

    		  

    -7.4

    -12.5

    -16.3

    -14.2

    -13.2

    -14.9

    -16.7

    -17.9

    -19.2

    -20.6

    -22.8

    Capital and financial account balance

    		  

    -18.5

    3.8

    1.8

    -3.4

    -6.0

    0.2

    -3.0

    -5.0

    -6.2

    -7.1

    -8.2

    Of which: Direct investment

    		  

    0.7

    7.5

    2.9

    0.0

    -1.3

    2.0

    2.1

    2.2

    2.4

    2.5

    2.6

    Errors and omissions

    		  

    -0.1

    -7.3

    -2.7

    -7.2

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    0.0

    Overall balance

    		  

    -4.6

    11.0

    12.1

    -4.5

    2.7

    10.4

    9.0

    9.3

    9.9

    10.6

    11.2
                             

    Gross official reserves (US$ billions) 5/

    		  

    107.6

    116.9

    114.7

    113.5

    116.2

    126.6

    135.6

    144.9

    154.8

    165.4

    176.6

    (In months of following year’s imports of goods and nonfactor services)

    		  

    5.5

    4.9

    5.4

    4.6

    4.4

    4.6

    4.7

    4.8

    4.9

    4.9

    5.0

    (In percent of short-term debt by original maturity)

    		  

    117.6

    120.8

    104.9

    100.3

    99.4

    98.3

    97.2

    97.0

    97.3

    97.9

    98.9

    (In percent of short-term debt by remaining maturity)

    		  

    91.9

    93.5

    84.6

    80.7

    78.7

    79.4

    79.0

    79.2

    79.7

    80.5

    81.5

    Total external debt (in billions of U.S. dollars) 5/

    		  

    238.8

    258.7

    259.6

    270.6

    284.6

    305.1

    324.4

    342.8

    361.1

    379.2

    397.2

    (In percent of GDP)

    		  

    70.8

    69.3

    63.8

    67.8

    65.1

    65.3

    65.1

    64.9

    64.4

    63.8

    63.0

    Of which: short-term (in percent of total, original maturity)

    		  

    38.3

    37.4

    42.1

    41.8

    41.1

    42.2

    43.0

    43.6

    44.1

    44.6

    44.9

      short-term (in percent of total, remaining maturity)

    		  

    49.1

    48.3

    52.2

    51.9

    51.9

    52.3

    52.9

    53.4

    53.8

    54.2

    54.5

    Debt service ratio 5/

    		                        

    (In percent of exports of goods and services) 8/

    		  

    13.6

    10.5

    9.7

    11.8

    12.1

    12.1

    10.1

    9.8

    9.7

    9.6

    9.5

    (In percent of exports of goods and nonfactor services)

    		  

    14.4

    11.4

    10.3

    12.7

    12.9

    12.9

    10.7

    10.4

    10.3

    10.2

    10.0
                             
                             

    Memorandum items:

    		                        

    Nominal GDP (in billions of ringgit)

    		  

    1,418

    1,549

    1,794

    1,823

    1,952

    2,099

    2,241

    2,373

    2,512

    2,660

    2,817
                             

    Sources: Data provided by the authorities; CEIC Data; World Bank; UNESCO; and IMF, Integrated Monetary Database, and staff estimates.
                             

    1/ Data used in this report for staff analyses are as of January 29, 2025, unless otherwise noted.
    2/ Cash basis.
    3/ Consolidated public sector includes general government and nonfinancial public enterprises (NFPEs). General government includes federal government, state and local governments, and statutory bodies.
    4/ Based on data provided by the authorities, but follows compilation methodology used in IMF’s Integrated Monetary Database. Credit to private sector in 2018 onwards includes data for a newly licensed commercial bank from April 2018. The impact of this bank is excluded in the calculation of credit gap.
    5/ IMF staff estimates. U.S. dollar values are estimated using official data published in national currency.                                                                                                                         
    6/ Based on a broader measure of liquidity. Credit gap is estimated on quarterly data from 2000, using one-sided Hodrick-Prescott filter with a large parameter.
    7/ Revisions in historical data reflect the change in base year for nominal GDP (from 2010=100 to 2015=100).
    8/ Includes receipts under the primary income account.
                               

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] The Executive Board takes decisions under its lapse-of-time procedure when the Board agrees that a proposal can be considered without convening formal discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pavis Devahasadin

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM chairs the 7th meeting of National Board for Wildlife on 3rd March in Gir

    Source: Government of India

    PM chairs the 7th meeting of National Board for Wildlife on 3rd March in Gir

    PM releases the first-ever riverine dolphin estimation report in the country, which estimated a total of 6,327 dolphins

    PM lays the foundation stone of National Referral Centre for Wildlife at Junagadh

    PM announces 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation to be conducted in 2025 and establishment of Centre of Excellence to deal with Human-wildlife conflict at SACON, Coimbatore

    PM announces that Cheetah introduction will be expanded to Gandhisagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and Banni Grasslands in Gujarat

    Strengthening wildlife conservation efforts, PM announces a new Project for Gharials and a National Great Indian Bustard Conservation Action Plan

    PM stresses on the usage of remote sensing & geospatial mapping and AI & Machine Learning to combat issues like forest fires and human-animal conflicts

    PM underscores importance of ease of travelling and connectivity for wildlife tourism

    PM asks the Wildlife Board and Environment Ministry to gather the traditional knowledge and manuscripts of various regions of India with respect to conservation and management of forests and wildlife

    Gir is a good success story of Lion and Leopard conservation, we should document this traditional knowledge with the help of AI for use at other National Parks and Sanctuaries: PM

    Posted On: 03 MAR 2025 4:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited Gir National Park in Gujarat earlier today, where he chaired the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife.

    The National Board for Wildlife reviewed various initiatives undertaken by the Government in wildlife conservation, highlighting achievements in the creation of new protected areas and species-specific flagship programs such as Project Tiger, Project Elephant, Project Snow Leopard, among others. The Board also discussed conservation efforts for dolphins and Asiatic lions, and the establishment of the International Big Cats Alliance.

    During the meeting, Prime Minister released the report of the first-ever riverine dolphin estimation conducted in the country, which estimated a total of 6,327 dolphins. This pioneering effort involved surveying 28 rivers across eight states, with 3150 mandays dedicated to covering over 8,500 kilometers. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest numbers, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam.

    Prime Minister emphasised the importance of awareness on dolphin conservation by involvement of local population and villagers in the areas. He also advised organising exposure visits of school children in dolphin habitat areas.

    Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of the National Referral Centre for Wildlife at Junagadh, which will function as the hub for coordination and governance of various aspects related to wildlife health and disease management.

    Population estimation of Asiatic Lions is carried out once every five years. The last such exercise was carried out in 2020. Prime Minister announced the initiation of the 16th cycle of lion estimation to be conducted in 2025.

    Considering that the Asiatic Lions have now made Barda Wildlife Sanctuary their home through natural dispersal, Prime Minister announced that lion conservation in Barda will be supported through prey augmentation and other habitat improvement efforts. Underscoring the importance of eco-tourism as a means for development and conservation of wildlife habitats, he emphasised that there should be ease of travelling and connectivity for wildlife tourism.

    For effective management of human-wildlife conflict, Prime Minister made an announcement for establishing a Centre of excellence at Wildlife Institute of India- Campus in SACON (Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History), Coimbatore. The centre will also support the states and UTs in equipping Rapid Response Teams with advanced technology, gadgets for tracking, forewarning; prescribe surveillance and Intrusion Detection Systems in human-wildlife conflict hotspots; and build capacity of field practitioners and community to execute conflict mitigation measures.

    Prime Minister stressed on the usage of remote sensing & geospatial mapping and Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning to combat issues like forest fires and human-animal conflicts. He suggested engagement of the Wildlife Institute of India with the Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) to address the challenge of human-wildlife conflict.

    To enhance the monitoring and management of forest fires, particularly in highly sensitive protected areas, focusing on prediction, detection, prevention, and control, the Prime Minister advised for a collaboration between the Forest Survey of India, Dehradun, and BISAG-N through use of space technology.

    Prime Minister also announced that the Cheetah introduction will be expanded to other areas including the Gandhisagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and Banni Grasslands in Gujarat.

    Prime Minister announced a scheme focused on the conservation of tigers outside tiger reserves. The initiative aims to address human-tiger and other co-predator conflicts in areas outside these reserves by ensuring co-existence with local communities.

    Recognising the dwindling population of gharials and a view of ensuring the conservation of Gharials, Prime Minister also announced the initiation of a new Project on Gharials for their conservation.

    Prime Minister commended the efforts undertaken towards conservation of Great Indian Bustard. Considering the need to upscale the conservation efforts, he announced a National Great Indian Bustard Conservation Action Plan.

    During the review meeting, Prime Minister asked the Board and Environment Ministry to gather traditional knowledge and manuscripts of various regions of India with respect to conservation and management of forests and wildlife for research and development. Prime Minister chalked out a roadmap for wildlife conservation strategy and future actions for the Ministry and also asked to constitute various task forces to work on Indian Sloth Bear, Ghariyaal and Great Indian Bustard conservation and development.

    Prime Minister noted that Gir is a good success story of Lion and Leopard conservation. He said that this traditional knowledge should be documented with the help of AI for use at other National Parks and Sanctuaries.

    Prime Minister also suggested for enhanced cooperation in Co-ordination unit under the United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS).

    Prime Minister commended the active participation of local communities in conservation, especially through the establishment of Community Reserves. Over the past decade, India has witnessed more than six fold increase in the number of community reserves. He also emphasized the importance of utilizing advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence in wildlife conservation.

    Prime Minister also advised on research and documentation of medicinal plants in forest areas which can play a crucial role in animal health management.  He also mentioned the possibilities of promoting use of  plant based medicine systems for animal health management on a global scale.

    After the meeting, Prime Minister also flagged off motorcycles for enhanced mobility of frontline forest staff.  He also interacted with field level functionaries at Gir which included frontline staff, eco guides and trackers.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2107778) Visitor Counter : 45

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Spring is the most critical period for wildfires in Scotland

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

    For more information, visit https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/outdoors/wildfires/

    Firefighters are urging the public to be aware of wildfire risk this Spring as figures show almost 80% of large outdoor fires since 2010 were recorded between March and May.

    On average, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) attends 170 large outdoor fires each year.  

    Prolonged wet weather last year saw the figure drop to 55 incidents, but the seasonal risk remains.  

    Analysis shows that around two thirds of wildfires are accidental with the most common causes recorded as discarded cigarettes or unattended campfires.  

    Area Commander and Local Senior Officer for Highland, Michael Humphreys, the SFRS Wildfire Lead, emphasised the need for public responsibility. He said: “It is crucial that people understand the impact of careless fire-setting. Even with the best intentions, small fires can rapidly spread causing devastating damage.  

    “If you light a campfire during high winds, high temperatures and low humidity there is potential that it could get out of control.  

    “Always take steps to ensure your campfire is fully extinguished before you leave. Simple steps to act safely and responsibly is a must.”  

    SFRS continues to collaborate with partners, such as the Scottish Wildfire Forum, to issue wildfire warnings when weather and ground conditions are high and very high for fires.  The public can follow SFRS social media channels and website for real-time wildfire warnings and safety guidance.  

    Deputy Chair of the Scottish Wildfire Forum, Michael Bruce, said: “Large wildfires burning over several days have a devastating impact on our natural environment.  

     “In May 2019, a wildfire burned for six days in the Flow Country where the burned peatland doubled Scotland’s emissions. 

    “Wildfires can strike a blow to rural economies and tourism.”  

    With climate change, we may be seeing hotter, drier summers and wetter, warmer winters. This could increase the chances for wildfires to occur, which is why preventative measures are more important than ever.  

    To address these risks, SFRS is advancing its Wildfire Strategy, and have invested £1.6 million in specialist equipment and firefighter training to improve its response capabilities.  

    While wildfires can happen year-round, Spring presents ideal conditions due to the combination of new growth and typically drier ground.  

    However, wildfire risks are not solely linked to warm conditions—cold, dry winter air can also create highly flammable environments.  

    For more information, visit Wildfires | Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Holocaust films are changing as we lose the survivor generation

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Barry Langford, Professor of Film Studies, Royal Holloway University of London

    The Holocaust is fast receding from living memory. Some 300 Auschwitz survivors were present at the 70th anniversary commemorations of the camp’s liberation in 2015. This year, just 50 attended, all of whom were children in 1945.

    Even before this generation began to pass on, researchers of the Holocaust had begun to study the ways that memory of these events have been shaped, manipulated, or indeed fabricated. Film scholar Alison Landsberg’s influential concept of “prosthetic memory” focused attention on the ways in which film, literature and other art forms can supplement or even substitute for the experiences of those who lived through historical events.

    Approaching the moment when such supplements must become the sole means for future generations to understand the Holocaust, it seems no accident that half a dozen films released in 2023 and 2024 made Holocaust memory – and its complexities – an explicit element of their narratives.

    Three of these films incorporate scenes filmed on location in Poland at former Nazi death camps. Perhaps the most unexpected example is The Zone of Interest (2023). A brief documentary sequence filmed at the modern-day Auschwitz museum concludes director Jonathan Glazer’s meticulous (though highly stylised) recreation of the idyllic domestic life of camp commandant Rudolf Höss and his family.



    Read more:
    The Zone of Interest: new Holocaust film powerfully lays bare the mechanisms of genocide

    It’s the only sequence that crosses the otherwise impermeable boundary separating the Höss family compound from the camp itself. It might be interpreted as a kind of reality check for the audience – a reminder that yes, this all did really happen. But that seems an improbably ingenuous stance for so intelligent a filmmaker.

    More plausibly, the sequence is a reflexive extension of the film’s interrogation of the strategies by which atrocity can be held at arm’s length, or “managed”.

    Höss (Christian Friedel) and his wife Hedwig (Sandra Hüller) manage this by fabricating a “perfect” bourgeois home, while ignoring the constant soundtrack of barked orders, shots and screams from the other side of their garden wall.

    As we watch them, we are naturally appalled and repelled by their callous dissociation. Yet in the contemporary Auschwitz sequence, Glazer asks whether modern habits of Holocaust “consumption” don’t risk an all-too-similar disavowal.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    In the museum sequence we see Polish cleaners at work, wiping down the glass of the vitrines in which the infamous heaps of shoes and human hair are displayed, and mopping the floor of the Auschwitz I gas chamber (itself a postwar reconstruction).

    This site of unimaginable violence is now a museum where the material evidence of mass murder is carefully preserved and curated for tourists. Perhaps not altogether unlike a historical recreation such as The Zone of Interest.

    ‘Managing’ Holocaust memory

    Tourists are the protagonists of Treasure (2024), directed by Julia von Heinz, and A Real Pain (2024), written and directed by Jesse Eisenberg.

    These films centre on survivors and their descendants travelling to modern Poland, ostensibly to commemorate their destroyed families. But it seems that, perhaps inevitably, more pressing and immediate personal issues override these acts of remembrance.



    Read more:
    A Real Pain is a subtle but powerful exploration of remembrance culture and personal trauma

    A Real Pain, for example, centres on two cousins, dutiful family man David (Eisenberg) and mercurial, possibly bipolar Benji (Kieran Culkin). The pair join a “Holocaust tour” in honour of their late grandmother, a Polish-Jewish survivor, including a visit to Maidanek.

    Clip from A Real Pain.

    Dutifully and sombrely, the cousins view the barracks, the gas chamber and the vast pile of human ashes. Afterwards, however, only Benji lapses into inconsolable sobs. Is his grief an authentic reaction to the horror, a mark of his greater emotional connection? Is it histrionically excessive, performative attention-seeking? Or is it that the unfathomable tragedy of European Jewry allows Benji to access his own private agony.

    If it’s the latter, is such an appropriation of the Holocaust somehow an “illegitimate” response? According to whom? Eisenberg’s deft traumedy leaves it up to us to decide.

    Yet more ambiguous is the epilogue to Brady Corbett’s acclaimed The Brutalist (2024). The film retrospectively interprets the professional career of its protagonist, fictitious Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor László Tóth (Adrian Brody) as a response to the tragedy.



    Read more:
    The Brutalist: an architect’s take on a film about one man’s journey to realise his visionary building

    Addressing the 1980 Venice Biennale, Tóth’s daughter declares that through his creations her father worked through the trauma of his experiences in the camps. A Holocaust memorial is among the designs briefly glimpsed in the display of Tóth’s work.

    The trailer for The Brutalist.

    The scene aptly captures the ways in which public discourses around the Holocaust crystallised from the 1980s onward.

    In the immediate postwar period, as The Brutalist shows, the Holocaust was a rarely discussed, even shameful, topic outside of survivor communities. But with the onset of postmodernism, the Holocaust came increasingly to be understood as the defining episode in 20th-century European history, more even than the second world war itself.

    The meanings of trauma

    As all these films show, the ways that the Holocaust is commemorated today are far uncontested. For example, One Life (2023), the biopic of British rescuer Nicholas Winton, straightforwardly endorses mainstream assumptions about the value of remembrance.



    Read more:
    What One Life gets wrong about Nicholas Winton and the Kindertransport story

    By contrast, in the documentary The Commandant’s Shadow (2024), Holocaust survivor Anita Lasker-Wallfisch is almost dismissive of what she clearly sees as her daughter’s superfluous preoccupation with a past trauma best forgotten.

    The Brutalist is more ambiguous still. At one level, traumatic memory may help explain Tóth’s difficult character and relationships in the preceding three hours of the film. Yet at the same time, almost nothing in his words or actions hitherto has suggested the Holocaust is his predominant focus. Nor does Tóth make this claim himself. Stricken mute following a stroke, he can only listen as his daughter offers this account of his work.

    Is it true? Or is it imposing a neat, culturally approved meaning onto the complexities of a messy, damaged life?

    Together, these films make a strong case that in the “post-testimony” era, we must not only keep remembering the Holocaust, but reflect constantly on how and why we do so.

    Barry Langford does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How Holocaust films are changing as we lose the survivor generation – https://theconversation.com/how-holocaust-films-are-changing-as-we-lose-the-survivor-generation-250687

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Retail sales down 3.2% in January

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The value of total retail sales for January, provisionally estimated at $35.3 billion, was 3.2% less than in the same month a year earlier, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

     

    After netting out the effects of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate represents a 5.2% year-on-year decrease.

     

    Online sales accounted for 6.9% of January’s total retail sales value. Provisionally estimated at $2.4 billion, the value of this segment rose 3.5% from the same month a year earlier.

     

    The value of sales of jewellery, watches, clocks and valuable gifts dropped by 17.9%.

     

    Meanwhile, decreases were likewise seen in sales of electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (down 10.5%); fuels (down 4.3%); motor vehicles and parts (down 52.6%); books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (down 15.1%); furniture and fixtures (down 26.4%); Chinese drugs and herbs (down 4.6%); and optical shops (down 4.4%).

     

    On the other hand, the value of sales of other consumer goods not elsewhere classified increased by 6.6% in January 2025 over a year earlier. This was followed by sales of commodities in supermarkets (up 4.9%); food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (up 10.9%); wearing apparel (up 1.2%); medicines and cosmetics (up 4.3%); commodities in department stores (up 0.5%); and footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (up 7.1%).

     

    The Government commented that the value of total retail sales recorded a much narrower year-on-year decline in January, and turned to an increase on a seasonally adjusted month-to-month comparison, possibly due in part to the early arrival of the Lunar New Year this year.

     

    It would thus be more meaningful to examine the figures for January and February combined, when available, to assess the latest retail sales performance. 

     

    Looking ahead, it said that the retail sector’s near-term performance will continue to be affected by changes in the consumption patterns of visitors and residents.

     

    However, it added that increasing earnings from employment, and the introduction of various measures by the central government to boost the Mainland’s economy and benefit Hong Kong, together with proactive efforts by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to promote tourism and boost market sentiment, will benefit the sector.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: 27 billion rubles will be allocated to regions within the framework of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Fir trees on the Hill, glamping, Republic of Karelia.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov summed up the results of the competitive selection of entities for the provision of a single subsidy for the creation of tourism infrastructure for 2025–2027 within the framework of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”.

    “President Vladimir Putin has set the task of increasing the contribution of the tourism industry to GDP to 5% by 2030 and increasing the number of trips around the country to 140 million people. Within the framework of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”, subsidies will be sent to the regions for priority areas for a specific territory. These funds – in the amount of 27 billion rubles – will be used to develop infrastructure for autotourism, create tourist routes and improve city centers. This will create additional opportunities for increasing tourist flow and economic growth in the regions,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Regions may allocate funds at their own discretion, including for the construction of infrastructure on automobile tourist routes, the creation of camp sites and the purchase of camping tents, the development of beaches and national tourist routes, and the implementation of projects to develop tourist centers in cities. Possible areas include the purchase of tourist equipment and gear, the creation of non-permanent berthing structures, and the holding of festivals.

    “Since 2025, we have increased the annual volume of the single subsidy by almost one and a half times, to 9 billion rubles, which will allow regions to implement larger-scale projects and increase the number of tourist trips – the main indicator we focus on. We have also provided for the possibility of directing funds to priority areas, including the creation of infrastructure for auto tourism. Based on the results of the selection, the leaders in terms of support volumes were Krasnodar Krai, Moscow, Sverdlovsk and Nizhny Novgorod regions and Stavropol Krai,” said Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov.

    In total, based on the results of the competitive selection, the subsidy will be sent to 84 entities, including the Zaporizhia and Kherson regions, the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics.

    A single subsidy has been sent to regions for tourism development since 2024. Thus, in Krasnodar Krai, 38 projects were supported last year. For example, work was carried out to ensure an accessible environment in the Anapa sanatorium, and year-round heated swimming pools appeared in Mostovsky, Tuapse, Temryuk districts, Armavir, Anapa and Sochi thanks to the subsidy.

    In the Kaluga Region, two projects were implemented to create non-capital berthing infrastructure on the Oka River, which contributed to the development of shipping, including the launch of excursion routes. Also, a project to create a tourist code for the city of Tarusa was implemented in the region.

    In the Volgograd Region, support was given to projects to create 15 campsites, in which 41 rooms and campsites were created. Such facilities appeared in six districts of the region and the city of Volzhsky.

    In the Kirov region, where the city of Kirov received the status of the New Year’s capital of Russia, a number of events were held with the subsidy funds, and a new city tourist route “Gates of the Russian North” was created, tourist navigation was updated, the “Gates of the Russian North” object was installed and a new public space was opened – Spasskaya Square.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kai Tak Sports Park Grand Opening Ceremony held today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Kai Tak Sports Park Grand Opening Ceremony held today (with photos)
    Kai Tak Sports Park Grand Opening Ceremony held today (with photos)
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         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, officiated at the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) Grand Opening Ceremony at Kai Tak Stadium today (March 1). The KTSP is the largest sports infrastructure project ever commissioned in Hong Kong. It will boost sports development and inject impetus into related industries such as recreation, entertainment and tourism, and also mega-event economy, thereby consolidating Hong Kong’s reputation as an event capital in Asia.           Other officiating guests at the opening ceremony included the Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Zheng Yanxiong; the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the President of the Legislative Council, Mr Andrew Leung; the Convenor of the Non-official Members of the Executive Council, Mrs Regina Ip; the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kai Tak Sports Park Limited, Dr Henry Cheng.           Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Lee, said that the KTSP, the largest sports park in Hong Kong’s history, will soon welcome top local, Mainland and international sports, music and cultural events, kicking off Hong Kong Super March. Once an airport in the middle of a busy city, Kai Tak has evolved from a flight terminal to a new global stage for sports, culture and arts, reflecting Hong Kong’s spirit of “daring to be the pioneer” and creating unlimited horizons in a limited space.     Opening today, the KTSP provides modern and multi-purpose sports and recreation facilities, including a 50 000-seat Kai Tak Stadium, a 10 000-seat Kai Tak Arena and a 5 000-seat Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground. There are also over 700 000 feet of retail, catering as well as leisure and entertainment facilities in the KTSP, providing a one-stop sports, leisure, catering and shopping experience for citizens and tourists, as well as the necessary hardware for driving the development of sports and the relevant industries. For more information of the KTSP, please visit www.kaitaksportspark.com.hk.

     
    Ends/Saturday, March 1, 2025Issued at HKT 22:10

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: With the support of Rosneft, a competition of reindeer herders’ skills was held in Yugra

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Samotlorneftegaz, one of Rosneft’s key production assets, provided support for the jubilee 10th Reindeer Herders’ Mastery Competition for the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra Governor’s Cup. The competition is timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory.

    The large-scale event was attended by more than 1.5 thousand people. The competition among reindeer herding families in Yugra is included in the regional calendar of event tourism and is a large-scale celebration of the national culture and sports traditions of the Khanty and Mansi peoples. Participants competed in five all-around disciplines – harnessing reindeer, reindeer sled racing, transporting firewood on sleds, throwing a tynzyan (lasso) on a khorey (a pole for driving reindeer), and running on hunting skis. In addition, the skills of reindeer herding were assessed.

    The competition site recreated the authentic atmosphere of a camp of indigenous peoples of the North: tents were installed, a procession of festive reindeer teams was held. Guests saw an extensive musical and interactive program with performances by folk groups. Craft workshops, play areas, sports grounds were open, and northern delicacies were offered.

    Preservation of the national culture of the indigenous peoples of the North and their traditional way of life is one of the significant areas of Rosneft’s social policy. The Company’s enterprises implement many social projects in the regions of their operations, develop the infrastructure of northern villages, help reindeer herder families, improve the material and technical base of educational institutions, social and medical facilities in the areas of original residence of indigenous peoples.

    Reference:

    JSC Samotlorneftegaz, one of the key production enterprises of NK Rosneft, carries out production activities in the Nizhnevartovsk region of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra. It develops the largest Samotlor field in Russia, the industrial exploitation of which began in 1969. The total area of the enterprise’s licensed areas exceeds 2.9 thousand square kilometers.

    Under the agreement between Rosneft and the Government of Yugra, Samotlorneftegaz is implementing projects aimed at improving the quality of life of indigenous peoples of the North. Since 2020, the company has been supporting a unique program to equip national camps with modern information and communication technologies. Currently, the project covers about 3,650 people, which is 72% of the indigenous peoples of Yugra leading a traditional way of life.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft March 3, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taxi fleets to commence service gradually and mark important milestone in taxi trade’s development

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Taxi fleets to commence service gradually and mark important milestone in taxi trade’s development
    Taxi fleets to commence service gradually and mark important milestone in taxi trade’s development
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         The Government today (March 3) announced that the five selected taxi fleet operators will soon commence service gradually, marking an important step to enhance taxi service quality and reform the taxi trade.     The Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, accompanied by the Under Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Liu Chun-san, and the Commissioner for Transport, Ms Angela Lee, attended the Taxi Fleet Launching Ceremony at the Transport Department (TD) Vehicle Examination Complex this morning. Other officiating guests were Legislative Council (LegCo) Member (Transport) Mr Frankie Yick; LegCo Member Dr Chan Han-pan; the Chairman of the LegCo Panel on Transport, Mr Chan Siu-hung; and the Deputy Chairman of the LegCo Panel on Transport, Mr Yiu Pak-leung.     Addressing the Launching Ceremony, Ms Chan said that the Taxi Fleet Launching Ceremony marked an important milestone of the taxi trade’s development in Hong Kong. The Government introduced a series of measures to enhance taxi services in the past two years, and the introduction of a new taxi fleet regime was one of the key initiatives. Under the TD’s regulatory regime, operators form fleets with professional management and good use of technologies to provide quality service for passengers, bringing a new look to the taxi trade.     She said that, following years of development and challenges, the taxi trade in Hong Kong can only make continuous improvement in the taxi service level to meet the expectations of the public and tourists by keeping up with the times with proactive and innovative reforms. She said she looks forward to the taxi fleets playing a leading role, injecting new impetus into the taxi trade and providing more quality services.     At the Launching Ceremony, representatives of the five selected operators (in alphabetical order of company name), namely Big Boss Taxi Company Limited, CMG Fleet Management Limited, Sino Development (International) Company Limited, SynCab Service Limited and Tai Wo Management Limited, introduced the features and highlights of their fleets respectively, including the vehicle models to be deployed, their body designs and logos, compartment facilities and safety devices.     The selected operators comprise three urban fleets and two mixed fleets, with a size ranging from 300 to 1 000 taxis each, providing a total of over 3 500 taxis, which account for nearly 20 per cent of the total number of taxis in Hong Kong. The selected operators will deploy about 1 500 new vehicles as fleet taxis at the time of service commencement. They will provide electric taxis, wheelchair-accessible taxis and premium taxis for passengers to promote green transport and cater for the diverse travel needs of individuals.     To ensure service quality, all fleets must provide online hailing services, customer service hotlines and different electronic communication channels for passengers to select appropriate vehicle types based on their needs, and rate driver services. In addition, all fleet taxis will provide multiple electronic payment means, while safety devices and driver monitoring systems will be equipped for passengers’ convenience and driving safety. For passengers’ easy identification, all fleet taxis are required to display a fleet taxi certificate and a fleet taxi plate.     The TD issued conditional grants of the Taxi Fleet Licence to five selected operators in end-July 2024, and they are required to complete the gearing-up work and commence service within one year. The first fleet is expected to start service by end-March 2025 the earliest. The TD will monitor the fleet’s operations and continue to actively promote the remaining fleets to commence operations as soon as possible.

     
    Ends/Monday, March 3, 2025Issued at HKT 15:11

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Opening remarks by SCED at opening ceremony of Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Opening remarks by SCED at opening ceremony of Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 (English only)
    Opening remarks by SCED at opening ceremony of Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 (English only)
    ******************************************************************************************

         Following are the opening remarks by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, at the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025 today (March 2):Winston (Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Jewellery Advisory Committee, Mr Winston Chow), Lawrence (Chairman of the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show Fair Organising Committee, Mr Lawrence Ma), Margaret (Executive Director of the HKTDC, Ms Margaret Fong), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,     Good afternoon. Thank you for coming to the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show 2025. This is a signature event in Hong Kong. This year, we are welcoming some 4 000 exhibitors from over 40 countries and regions. They have all brought with them high-quality products to showcase. I hope that all exhibitors and buyers will find this event rewarding, and can make new friends, new business connections. In addition, I hope you would enjoy your stay in Hong Kong.     Convention and exhibition is a very important sector for us. Hong Kong is strategically right at the heart of Asia, and has superb transport connections with the rest of the world. The connections and the convenience make us a prime location for business activities.     Every year, we host hundreds of large-scale conventions and exhibitions. They in turn attract millions of visitors to Hong Kong, bringing business opportunities for the local tourism, retail, catering and entertainment industries. Of all the international trade shows held in Hong Kong, over 10 are the largest in Asia and globally for their respective trades, including electronics, jewellery, gifts, watches and clocks, lighting, among others.     To bring in more international exhibitions to our city, the Government will launch an incentive scheme later this year called the Incentive Scheme for Recurrent Exhibitions 2.0. The scheme will offer incentive support to attract new or recurrent large-scale international exhibitions to be held in Hong Kong, thereby driving further our economic growth.     The global business environment is facing a lot of uncertainties these days. Protectionism is rising again. It has caused disruptions to trade, supply chain, cash flow and sentiment in the investment market. While putting Hong Kong’s economic resilience to the test, these challenges also make us more determined to reform, to innovate and to improve. But as a matter of principle, Hong Kong is an international trade centre and we will continue to support free trade.     We do not agree with unnecessary tariffs and trade barriers. They affect global trade and capital flows, dampen investment confidence and slow down global economic development. We will continue to be a dedicated supporter of a rule-based multilateral trading system, for the benefits of the whole world.     We hope to see more and more trade shows and mega events in Hong Kong, and welcome you to our city many times in the future. I would also like to thank the organiser for bringing us all together for networking and to enjoy the wonderful jewellery designs on display. Thank you.

     
    Ends/Sunday, March 2, 2025Issued at HKT 16:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 88th Meeting of Network Planning Group under PM GatiShakti evaluates key Infrastructure projects

    Source: Government of India

    88th Meeting of Network Planning Group under PM GatiShakti evaluates key Infrastructure projects

    NPG evaluates Road, Railway, Information Technology and Metro Projects

    Posted On: 01 MAR 2025 11:29AM by PIB Delhi

    The 88th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG), chaired by Shri E. Srinivas, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), convened today to evaluate infrastructure projects in the Road, Railway, InformationTechnology and Metro sectors. The meeting focused on enhancing multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency in alignment with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP).

    The NPG evaluated eleven projects (7- Road, 2- Railway, 1- InformationTechnology and 1- Metro) for their conformity to the PM GatiShakti principles of integrated multimodal infrastructure, last-mile connectivity to economic and social nodes and intermodal coordination. These initiatives are expected to boost logistical efficiency, reduce travel times, and deliver significant socio-economic benefits across regions. The evaluation and anticipated impacts of these projects are detailed below:

    Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)

     

    4 lane NH from Kishanganj – Bahadurganj

    The 4-Lane NH from Kishanganj-Bahadurganj Road Project is a Greenfield development with alignment length of 23.649 km in Kishanganj, Bihar. The road will connect NH-27 and NH-327E, enhancing regional mobility, reducing congestion and enhance trade connectivity between Bihar and West Bengal. The project includes flyovers, major bridges, service roads and underpasses to ensure smooth vehicular movement and improved accessibility.

     

    Greenfield Regional Expressway  from Girmapur village (on NH-65) in Sangareddy district to Choutuppal (on NH-65)

    The Northern Portion of Hyderabad Regional Ring Road Expressway is a Greenfield expressway project under Bharatmala Pariyojana. It aims to develop a 158.64 km long 4-lane access-controlled expressway connecting Girmapur village (on NH-65) in Sangareddy district to Choutuppal (on NH-65) in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, passing through Sangareddy, Medak, Siddipet and Yadadri Bhuvanagiri districts in Telangana. It is designed to provide a high-speed corridor with grade separators, interchanges. Additionally, it will facilitate better linkages to key economic nodes, including SEZs, mega food parks, pharma hubs and textile clusters.

    4 lane Access Controlled Sirhind – Sehna section

     

    The project includes development of the four-lane access-controlled Sirhind-Sehna section of NH-205AG as part of the Mohali-Barnala Inter Corridor Route in Punjab. The project has alignment length of 106.92 km. The project is a key component of the Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase-I, providing an alternative to congested urban roadways and linking critical expressways such as the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway and the Amritsar-Jamnagar Economic Corridor.

     

    Six Lane Connectivity to Visakhapatnam Port Road (Sabbavaram to Sheelanagar Junction)

     

    The proposed project consists of development of a six-lane connectivity road from Sabbavaram to Sheelanagar Junction in Visakhapatnam Andhra Pradesh, under Bharatmala Pariyojana. The project with length of 12.66 km, is designed to ease congestion on NH-16 by providing a dedicated corridor for port-bound traffic, thereby reducing interference with local commuters in Visakhapatnam city. The Greenfield corridor (97%) will ensure efficient cargo evacuation and improve overall logistical operations for Visakhapatnam Port.

     

    Jaipur Northern Ring Road

     

    The proposed greenfield project is aligned outside the urban core of Jaipur, connecting key corridors including Ajmer Road, Agra Road and the Jaipur Bandikui Spur. This ring road will alleviate traffic congestion in the northwest region of the city by diverting heavy commercial traffic from NH-48 and NH-52. Additionally, the design incorporates major and minor bridges, toll plazas and service roads, augmenting connectivity enhancements for both residents and businesses.

     

    Upgradation to two lane with paved shoulder from Limbdi to Dhrangadhra

    The proposed project includes upgradation of the Limbdi- Dhrangadhra section of NH-51 in Gujarat to a two-lane highway with paved shoulders. This Brownfield project with Greenfield bypasses and realignments spans 62.822 km in Surendranagar district and aims to enhance connectivity between the Saurashtra and Kachchh regions. The corridor links key highways, namely Ahmedabad- Viramgam-Maliya (SH-7) and Ahmedabad-Rajkot (NH-47).

     

    6 Lane Zirakpur Bypass including 3 level interchange at both ends

     

    The proposed Zirakpur Bypass is a 6-lane highway project that will connect NH-7 (Zirakpur-Patiala) and NH-5 (Zirakpur-Parwanoo), spanning 19.2 km across Punjab and Haryana. The project aims to alleviate heavy congestion in Zirakpur, Panchkula and surrounding areas. The bypass will include three-level interchanges at both ends, multiple culverts, vehicular overpasses and underpasses, ensuring smooth traffic flow.

     

    Ministry of Railways (MoR)

     

    New BG Line from Bhagalpur to Jamalpur

     

    The New Broad Gauge (BG) Line from Bhagalpur to Jamalpur (52.810 km) is a brownfield project. The project aims to enhance railway capacity and connectivity in Bihar’s Bhagalpur and Munger districts. The project will connect Bhagalpur, Sultanganj and Jamalpur, facilitating efficient freight and passenger movement while reducing congestion on existing railway lines.

     

    Doubling line between Aurangabad-Parbhani stations

     

    The Proposed Doubling of the Aurangabad-Parbhani Railway Line (177.29 km) is a brownfield expansion project. The project aims to decongest the Vijayawada-Balharshah (HDN) and Secunderabad-Mumbai corridors, providing an efficient alternative for freight and passenger movement. The line runs through Aurangabad, Jalna and Parbhani districts in Maharashtra, benefiting industries, tourism and trade in the region.

     

    Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)

     

    National Knowledge Network Phase – II

     

    The National Knowledge Network (NKN) Phase-II is an advanced high-speed network initiative by the Government of India, aimed at strengthening the backbone of national research, education and e-Governance infrastructure. The network facilitates seamless connectivity for research institutions, universities and government departments, ensuring uninterrupted access to data resources and digital platforms.

     

    Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)

     

    Metro Project- GIFT City to GIFT

     

    GIFT City Metro Corridor, having length of 7.585 km and to be implemented in two phases, is designed to enhance urban mobility for the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT) in Gujarat. This will yield significant socio-economic benefits such as reduced travel time, lower fuel consumption and a substantial drop in vehicular emissions and accidents.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/Abhijith Narayanan/Asmitabha Manna

    (Release ID: 2107181) Visitor Counter : 48

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Singapore ETO holds first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Singapore ETO holds first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship (with photos)
    Singapore ETO holds first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam to promote closer relationship (with photos)
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         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore (Singapore ETO) hosted the first Chinese New Year dinner in Vietnam at Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) yesterday (February 28), taking the opportunity to celebrate the new year and the Singapore ETO’s 30th anniversary with the rapidly growing Vietnamese partners and counterparts.           Jointly organised with the Hong Kong Business Association Vietnam (HKBAV), the dinner welcomed about 200 guests, including the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in HCMC, Mr Wei Huaxiang; the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Affairs in HCMC, Mr Tran Xuan Thuy; the Deputy Chief of Office of the People’s Committee of District 1 of HCMC, Mr Mac Hong Linh; the Chairman of the HKBAV, Mr Michael Chiu; the Director of Indochina of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Tina Phan; and representatives from government and business sectors, chambers of commerce, Hong Kong communities in Vietnam, etc.           Speaking at the dinner, the Director of the Singapore ETO, Mr Owin Fung, recapped the multi-front work and achievements of Hong Kong and Vietnam collaboration efforts. Last summer, the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met with the then Vietnam President and the present General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Vietnam Central Committee, Mr To Lam, during his official visit to Hanoi and HCMC with a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region delegation. Meanwhile, the Permanent Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr Nguyen Hoa Binh, visited Hong Kong last September to attend the Belt and Road Summit.           On business and trade relations, Mr Fung mentioned that Vietnam had become Hong Kong’s sixth-largest merchandise trading partner in 2024, with a total trade volume increasing by 26 per cent from 2023. With regard to foreign direct investment (FDI), Hong Kong investors have had a keen interest in the Vietnamese market for years. On an accumulated basis, Hong Kong is one of Vietnam’s top five largest FDI investors in areas such as manufacturing, real estate, retail, logistics, infrastructure, etc. In addition to other positive developments, as in tourism and education, the relations of the two places could reach a new level in the imminent future.           During the dinner, the Singapore ETO also introduced to guests the grand opening of Kai Tak Sports Park, the largest sports infrastructure project in Hong Kong history, in the evening of March 1. The cultural performances presented including lion dance, playing of Chinese and Vietnamese songs by a live band using traditional music instruments, and jamming of Cantonese and Vietnamese songs by a local singer.           Mr Fung concluded that Hong Kong has unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” arrangement, serving as a gateway between Mainland China and global markets, with the Greater Bay Area (GBA) as a key focus for collaboration. The Singapore ETO, celebrating its 30th anniversary, will continue to relentlessly enhance bilateral relations and provide help to enterprises and businesses to enter and expand in Hong Kong and take a proactive role to help enterprises and businesses in Hong Kong and the GBA go abroad. Vietnam and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations will certainly be a priority destination.

     
    Ends/Saturday, March 1, 2025Issued at HKT 10:50

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Cyclone Alfred is expected to hit southeast Queensland – the first in 50 years to strike so far south

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Steve Turton, Adjunct Professor of Environmental Geography, CQUniversity Australia

    If you’re in southeast Queensland, brace yourself.

    Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to cross the southeast Queensland coast late this Thursday as a Category 2 storm. The last tropical cyclone to make landfall in the region was ex-Tropical Cyclone Zoe in 1974, half a century ago.

    Category 2 cyclones produce winds at levels considered damaging at best, destructive at worst – typically gusting as high as 164 kilometres per hour. It can cause minor damage to houses and significant damage to signs, trees and caravans. Power failures are common, while small boats can break moorings. Significant beach erosion is likely on the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.

    Cyclone Alfred formed nine days ago in the Coral Sea, 900 kilometres north east of Cairns, then headed out to sea. Then it tracked south, reaching severe Category 4 status east of Mackay. In recent days, the storm weakened further as it meandered into the cooler waters of the southern Coral Sea. The cyclone seemed set to peter out, far offshore.

    No longer. The latest forecasts show the storm sharply changing direction and making a beeline for heavily populated areas of southeast Queensland.

    Its erratic path is not unexpected. Cyclones forming over the Coral Sea have the most unpredictable paths in the world, frustrating coastal Queensland residents, fishers, tourist operators and meteorologists themselves.

    Alfred is a typically unpredictable Coral Sea cyclone. But unusually, it has maintained its cyclonic structure and intensity much further south, into subtropical latitudes.

    Issued Monday March 3rd, this map shows the forecast path of Cyclone Alfred this week.
    Bureau of Meteorology, CC BY-NC-ND

    Cyclones, typhoons and hurricanes explained

    Cyclones, hurricanes and typhoons are different names for the same intense, horizontally rotating tropical storms. They occur in seven tropical ocean basins, above and below the equator.

    These storms need atmospheric heat. They only form over seas warmer than 27°C, where evaporation rates are high. They don’t occur in the cooler South Atlantic basin, and only rarely in the southeast Pacific, during strong El Niño events when sea surface temperatures are warmer.

    The northwest Pacific – off eastern Asia and the Philippines – experiences the most frequent and intense tropical storms (known there as typhoons).

    Australia averages about 13 cyclones a year. Most won’t make landfall and only a few are severe. The world’s hardest hit nation is China, where six cyclones make landfall annually.

    This map shows the aggregated paths of the world’s tropical cyclone over the 150 years to 2006. Note: this map uses the Saffir-Simpson scale in measuring wind speeds, which differs slightly to the Australian scale.
    NASA, CC BY-NC-ND

    In the north Pacific and north Atlantic, cyclones typically follow predictable tracks. They move westwards, steered by sub-tropical high pressure sytems to their north.

    Cyclone paths are also fairly predictable off the northwest coast of Australia. They typically form over the Timor Sea and drift southwest before shifting south and crossing the coast. Some are severe, as we saw with Category 5 Cyclone Zelia last month.

    By contrast, Coral Sea cyclones such as Alfred are much harder to predict.

    In the southern hemisphere, cyclones spin clockwise. This figure shows how cyclones form around a low pressure system over warm seawater. Depending on their intensity, tropical cyclones are steered by dominant winds in the lower, middle and upper layers of the atmosphere.
    Metservice New Zealand, CC BY-NC-ND

    How cyclones are steered

    Strong winds are the main force steering cyclones, determining direction and forward speed.

    Severe tropical cyclones (categories 3–5) are characterised by deep convection currents, which form the famous eye at the centre of the storm, as well as feeder rainbands converging into their centre. Severe systems are generally steered by winds in the middle to upper levels.

    By contrast, weaker cyclones (categories 1–2) are much shallower and often have little or no convection around their centre. They tend to be steered by winds in the lower to middle levels. At present, Cyclone Alfred looks to remain relatively weak.

    Wind speed and direction can differ markedly in different levels of the atmosphere. Winds can also change direction at the same level. These competing influences are what lies behind the erratic paths of our cyclones.

    Cyclones forming in the Coral Sea are more likely to be pushed in different directions by different winds and weather systems than their equivalents in other ocean basins. This is what makes them so hard to predict.

    In our region, cyclones are largely steered by two high pressure systems.

    The first pushes cyclones east, and the second steers them west. If both are present and roughly equal in strength, they can hold a cyclone near-stationary. We saw this with Cyclone Alfred for most of the last week.

    Slow-moving tropical cyclones such as Alfred are more likely to wander, while faster-moving cyclones such as Severe Cyclone Yasi follow a stronger steering pattern and more predictable paths.

    Quite often, cyclones travel south and east out to sea. There, they quietly die in a large area of ocean colloquially known as the cyclone graveyard, southeast of Brisbane. These cyclones are steered by different weather systems – upper troughs, cold masses of air from the Southern Ocean.

    Cyclone Alfred was initially steered east by a near equatorial ridge to its northeast, then became stuck between this high pressure ridge and a sub-tropical ridge to its southwest. This is why it meandered very slowly south and built up strength to become severe.

    An upper trough then pushed it southeast over the weekend. This week, it’s likely to turn sharply westward towards land, propelled by a high pressure ridge to the south.

    Landfall – but where?

    After meandering around the Coral Sea for more than a week, Cyclone Alfred’s forecast track now seems more certain.

    The system is expected to intensify from a Category 1 to 2 tomorrow as it moves over warmer waters and draws in more moisture-laden air. This should see it maintain near Category 2 status until landfall. After it hits, it should rapidly weaken to a tropical low over southern Queensland into the weekend.

    Alfred will bring a lot of rain, making flooded rivers and flash flooding likely. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for catchments all the way from Maryborough to the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales. These communities should prepare now.

    Cyclone Alfred has a large area of gales, so will affect a wide swathe of coastline from K’gari (Fraser Island) to Byron Bay. Storm-force winds will cover a 100km wide area, mostly concentrated on its southern flank as it approaches and crosses the coast.

    In the longer term, Alfred’s remnants will likely be captured by an approaching upper trough and taken back offshore, where it will die in the cyclone graveyard – gone, but not likely to be forgotten.

    Steve Turton has previously received funding from the Australian Government.

    – ref. Cyclone Alfred is expected to hit southeast Queensland – the first in 50 years to strike so far south – https://theconversation.com/cyclone-alfred-is-expected-to-hit-southeast-queensland-the-first-in-50-years-to-strike-so-far-south-251241

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Motorbike rider detected speeding at 148km/h in 100km/h zone at Stanley

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Motorbike rider detected speeding at 148km/h in 100km/h zone at Stanley

    Monday, 3 March 2025 – 4:18 pm.

    A motorbike rider intercepted speeding 48km/h above the limit at Stanley has been issued an infringement notice for 4-months licence disqualification, six demerit points, and $1161.50.  
    The 44-year-old man from Queensland was intercepted about 3.50pm yesterday, riding a red Honda CBR100RR motorcycle at 148km/h in a 100km/h zone on the Stanley Highway. 
    Sergeant Lee-Anne Walters said, “The section of road the rider was speeding on was narrow and heavily used by tourists and local motorists, and the consequences of his dangerous riding could have been tragic.” 
    “I urge every motorcyclist to consider their safety, and the safety of others, every time they ride on our roads.”  
    “Obey the road rules, to help us keep everyone safe.” 

    MIL OSI News –