NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to California Businesses and Residents Affected by the Park and Borel Fires

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    “As communities across the Southeast continue to recover and rebuild after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the SBA remains focused on its mission to provide support to small businesses to help stabilize local economies, even in the face of diminished disaster funding,” said Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. “If your business has sustained physical damage, or you’ve lost inventory, equipment or revenues, the SBA will help you navigate the resources available and work with you at our recovery centers or with our customer service specialists in person and online so you can fully submit your disaster loan application and be ready to receive financial relief as soon as funds are replenished.”

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to California businesses and residents affected by the Park and Borel fires that occurred July 24–Aug. 26, announced Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward, of the California Office of Emergency Services on Oct. 15.

    The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Los Angeles, Mendocino, Plumas, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Shasta, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Ventura and Yuba counties in California.

    “Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters whose property was damaged or destroyed by this disaster,” said Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “Within a few days, SBA will announce the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center where SBA disaster representatives will be on hand to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application,” Sánchez continued.

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez added. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

    Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 20, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 21, 2025.

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    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Regional Australia Institute Regions Rising summit

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    **CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY**

    Thank you, Liz for the kind introduction, as well as for your tireless work advocating for our wonderful regions.

    As always, I begin by acknowledging the Aboriginal People as the custodians of this lands on which me gather. We acknowledge and pay our respects to all Tasmanian Aboriginal Communities. Being here in Launceston – with your beautiful rivers, forests, hills and gorges, it is easy to imagine how Indigenous Tasmanians cared for and protected these lands for countless generations. 

    I extend those same respects to all First Nations people joining us today.

    Thank you to the Regional Australia Institute for inviting me to this event.

    It is wonderful to be with you and to see so many mayors, councillors, friends and colleagues in the audience now and throughout the course of the day, including: 

    • The Hon Jeremy Rockliff, Premier of Tasmania,
    • Bridget Archer MP, Member for Bass,
    • Senator Colbeck, and;
    • Mayor Matthew Garwood from the City of Launceston – it is a delight to be in your city.

    Fostering robust regional economies is incredibly important and I know this is a goal the everybody here pursues with passion and determination. 

    The Institute was established under a Labor government back in 2011. When we returned to Government in 2022, we committed additional funding to support the Institute’s independent, fact-driven, future-focused work.

    It’s been a pleasure to watch the Institute grow its reach across regional Australia, sharing ideas with communities near and far.

    Regional communities across Australia are coming up with innovative plans and strategies every single day, and this roving series has an important role to play in sharing those successes as broadly as possible. 

    Fittingly, we are meeting in a place that is full of success stories. 

    Launceston is a regional city that is home to some of the best examples of regional urban development in the nation.

    Across the river, we have the Launceston City Heart project, which has transformed central Launceston into one of Australia’s premier public spaces, turning the centre of this city into a vibrant retail, cultural and business precinct.

    Then, just outside these doors we have the UTAS Inveresk Campus – one of Launceston’s biggest ever infrastructure projects.

    Last year, I was here with the Premier and the Mayor to open the River’s Edge building. It is an architectural masterpiece that isn’t only creating jobs now, but that will attract and educate generations of students right here in Launceston, as well as creating immeasurable benefits to the confidence and growth of this city for decades to come.

    And my colleague, Jason Clare, opened The Shed – the last of the three major new buildings to be opened as part of this project and a fantastic example of how to reduce embodied carbon in infrastructure. It’s well worth a look at if you get the opportunity. 

    And, of course, just a drop punt away we have York Park – the soon to be northern home of the Tasmania Football Club.

    With $130m of new matchday facility, entertainment and seating upgrades on the way, football fans not only across Tasmania, but across the nation, can begin to get excited about the prospect of coming right here to Launceston to watch their favourite team in action.

    Speaking as a Victorian, it’s hard to think of any more attractive weekend getaways than coming to Launceston to watch your team play.

    These projects are transforming this region, driving innovation, growth and a powerful sense of community spirit.

    Of course, they also have one important thing in common – each of those projects is a partnership between different levels of government, with businesses, with sporting groups, with the university and with the broader community.

    They are also all projects that are targeted at one specific community, responding to the needs on the ground here.

    These projects are what Launceston needs and wants for a successful future, but not every community in the country has those same requirements.

    We know that the priorities here in Launceston will differ from those in Leeton or Longreach. 

    That is why our Regional Investment Framework recognises that a one-size-fits-all approach to regional development doesn’t cut it.

    This framework provides a consistent, coordinated investment approach across Government, responsive to the unique strengths and challenges of our diverse regions.

    It places regions and their people at the centre of decision-making by:

    • valuing local voices and local priorities;
    • taking an evidence-based approach to investment;
    • and coordinating across all levels of government.

    While we can see the success of that approach writ large right here in Launceston, it is an approach we are duplicating across the country as we invest in the social and community infrastructure that makes our regional communities such wonderful places to live.

    For the first time, our government has grants programs targeted at every community in Australia – from rural to the inner cities, and the peri-urban areas in between.

    In regional Australia, our Growing Regions Program is providing funding of between $500,000 to $15 million to local governments and not-for-profits for eligible capital works projects.

    Forty projects in the first round of funding for this program has been announced which included a $11 million commitment to the City Mission Launceston Community Precinct development which will provide an integrated housing space, healthcare and community services hub. 

    Round 2 has recently closed, which makes $394 million available for further important community and economic projects that will enhance the liveability of our regions. 

    And our $400 million Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program is looking to fund transformative investments in regional, rural and remote Australia based on the aims of unifying regional places, growing their economies and serving their communities. 

    The projects to be funded – in Broome, Colac, Swan Hill, Noosa and other locations around Australia have already been announced, transforming those communities in the same way that Launceston has been changed by the City Heart project.

    But, we also know that the growth that successful regional development can bring carries with it its own challenge, none larger than what we are seeing in housing right now in every corner of the country.

    My colleague Housing Minister Clare O’Neil is leading on a range of critical policy approaches there – including the $2 billion Social Housing Accelerator, the $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund and the National Housing Accord.

    In my portfolio space, I am working on two important levers – enabling infrastructure and planning reform.

    Through the Housing Support Program and its Priority Works Stream, we are partnering with state, territory and local governments to ensure local roads, utility connections and community infrastructure are developed alongside new housing.

    We have nearly $1.5 billion on the table through that program to unplug blockages in the housing pipeline.

    At the same time, we are undertaking planning reforms to enable new housing developments.

    To help the process along, the Australian Government has funded the planning stream of the Housing Support Program, which provides $50 million for state, territory and local government to try new planning approaches. 

    This means getting more people into the industry, getting planning settings right and accommodating new housing targets in existing plans. 

    What it means is taking more pressure off families and communities, and building more housing that they can afford.

    Projects like this are essential to ensuring the liveability and sustainability of our regional towns and cities. They keep people living here and they attract new residents.

    But the sustainability of regions is much broader than our built infrastructure – and the is where the “Circular Economy in Action – Regional Perspectives” report that we are launching today comes in.

    This research, which was funded through the Intergovernmental Shared Inquiry Program, demonstrates how communities are employing approaches tailored to their regions.

    And just like it does in the space of regional development, the City of Launceston serves as a good example of this in action with its updated procurement policy focusing on material sourcing, manufacturing, packaging to check if products can be repaired, re-purposed or re-used.

    Now, the local industry is harnessing opportunities to re-use waste materials like glass, rubber and demolition waste including concrete, metal and bricks.

    These examples show how shifting to sustainable practices can benefit both the economy and the environment, making communities stronger and more resilient.

    Collaboration is central to implementing circular initiatives. Grassroots circular economy initiatives, such as community repair workshops and second-hand markets, offer cost-effective alternatives to new purchases.

    The Australian Government is fostering a circular economy where we waste less and reuse more.

    We’ve already embedded circularity across many flagship programs including the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund and $7 billion Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility.  

    To provide advice on the opportunities and barriers in this area, we established the Circular Economy Ministerial Advisory Group, which will deliver its final advice at the end of the year.

    And we are developing a new National Circular Economy Framework, which will set the pace and direction for Australia’s transition. 

    It will include targets, priority supply chains, and describe what needs to happen across the economy to catalyse our transition. 

    We want to properly understand how to leverage our competitive advantages to set up our regions for success.  

    The circular economy isn’t only good for the environment, it is good for our economy.

    By re-using and repairing more of what we own, we can create opportunities through the supply chain for regional businesses and workers, creating a more vibrant region and community for us all to enjoy.

    Thank you very much for your time today, as well as to all of you who worked so hard on this important report.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) returns to homeport after Indo-Pacific deployment

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SAN DIEGO  –  

    Amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) returned to homeport in San Diego, following a seven-month deployment in the U.S. 7th and 3rd Fleet areas of operations with embarked elements of the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Oct. 18, 2024.

    Carrying over 700 Sailors and embarked Marines, Harpers Ferry participated in multiple, multi-national exercises and operations in the Pacific, displaying interoperability and the U.S.’s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    “The accomplishments of USS Harpers Ferry and its Navy and Marine Corps team are quite impressive,” said Cmdr. Gabriel Burgi, the commanding officer of Harpers Ferry. “Together, we steamed tens of thousands of miles from home, away from our friends and families, and completed important missions necessary to protect high seas freedoms. We took part in several bilateral and multinational exercises, and we were great ambassadors of the United States. I couldn’t be more proud of how well the crew and Marines worked together to accomplish many ‘firsts’ for the ARG-MEU team.”

    This deployment was an opportunity for the Marine Corps’ newest amphibious ship-to-shore connector, the amphibious combat vehicles (ACV), to gather operational data and lessons learned that will shape future deployments of the new platform in expeditionary environments.

    “This deployment was the first ever for the Marine Corps’ first new amphibious vehicle in over 50 years,” said Burgi. “All eyes were on us as we set the precedent for deployed operations of the ACV, and we helped write doctrine for future deployments. We launched and landed the first ACVs in foreign waters and on foreign shores, and the world was watching.”

    Harpers Ferry departed San Diego in March to begin a regularly scheduled, Western Pacific deployment. During the deployment, Harpers Ferry and embarked elements of the 15th MEU participated in Exercise Balikatan 24 (BK24), the largest, annual, bilateral exercise conducted between the U.S. and the Philippines. Elements of the embarked 15th MEU conducted a command-and-control exercise (C2X), Humanitarian Civic Assistance (HCA) projects and engagements, and a series of field training events.

    ACVs made their operational debut during BK24 in May, splashing from Harpers Ferry in Oyster Bay to conduct a waterborne live-fire gunnery exercise.

    “Throughout this deployment the landing force accomplished many firsts for the Marine Corps,” said Maj. Joe Santos, the ACV liaison officer, 15th MEU, and the commander of troops aboard Harpers Ferry. “The 15th MEU deployed with the Amphibious Combat Vehicle for the first time, which marked many more firsts for the Navy and Marine Corps. The Harpers Ferry and landing force was the first to achieve amphibious warfare certifications with the ACV; first to conduct ACV intermediate maintenance underway; first to conduct waterborne gunnery with the ACV; and first to operate within the Indo-Pacific.”

    While in the Philippines, Marines and Sailors of the 15th MEU also participated in the Amphibious Coastal Defense Continuum (ACDC), partnering with Philippine Marine Corps’ 3rd Marine Brigade to enhance the Philippine Marine Corps’ coastal defense strategy while supporting the modernization efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

    After BK24 and ACDC, the ship made its way north to Busan, South Korea, for Exercise Ssang Yong 24, a bilateral field training exercise with the Republic of Korea Marine Corps (ROKMC), and U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) in vicinity of Pohang.

    Ssang Yong was another landmark event for the ACV, marking the first time ACVs conducted a ship-to-shore amphibious assault overseas, partnered with ROKMC amphibious forces.

    “Harpers Ferry and their embarked Apache Company and ACV Platoon proved that we could safely and expeditiously launch and recover ACVs,” said Burgi. “The ACVs on deployment was a major milestone for the Navy-Marine Corps team. From onboard maintenance to overseas launch and recovery, almost everything we did with the ACVs was a first for our services. Deploying also gave the ACV platoon confidence in their weapon systems and in their ability to operate far from home without the benefit of onsite maintenance facilities.”

    After Ssang Yong, Harpers Ferry transited home to San Diego following a successful seven-month deployment.

    “I have seen this ship and her crew go from exiting the shipyards to the completion of a 7th Fleet deployment. This ship and her crew has been tasked over and over, and has exceeded the expectation of fleet commanders every time,” said Burgi. “There is no other crew or ship I would rather go to sea with. This crew has delivered miracles selflessly and tirelessly. I couldn’t be more proud of them; being the commanding officer to this crew has been the utmost privilege and highlight of my nearly 30-year career.”

    Santos echoed Burgi’s thoughts on the deployment.

    “I am excited for the Marines and Sailors to go home after this deployment knowing that they have accomplished so much,” said Maj. Santos. “They are a part of naval history and will remember this for the rest of their lives. It’s a beautiful day to be on the USS Harpers Ferry!”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fifth project approved under Subsidy Scheme for Using Hotels and Guesthouses as Youth Hostels

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Fifth project approved under Subsidy Scheme for Using Hotels and Guesthouses as Youth Hostels
    Fifth project approved under Subsidy Scheme for Using Hotels and Guesthouses as Youth Hostels
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) today (October 23) approved the fifth project under the Subsidy Scheme for Using Hotels and Guesthouses as Youth Hostels to the Yan Oi Tong Limited.                To help further meet the housing needs of young people and assist with their development, the Chief Executive announced in the 2022 Policy Address that the Government will explore ways to increase the supply of youth hostels. To this end, the HYAB launched the Subsidy Scheme in early January 2023 to subsidise non-governmental organisations to rent suitable hotels and guesthouses for use as youth hostels.                The fifth youth hostel project approved under the Subsidy Scheme is located in the Regal Oriental Hotel, with a total of 80 rooms, providing up to 160 hostel places. The project, which is named YOT Hub, will be launched by the Yan Oi Tong Limited and the Regal Hotels Group. One of the features of the project is to help youth tenants enrich their understanding of the national development opportunities through trainings, exchange programmes and internship programmes. It will also provide young people with self-enhancement and support services in different aspects, such as financial management courses, career development workshops and mental health seminars. In addition, the Yan Oi Tong Limited will form a youth service team and invite young people to collaborate in organising community activities. Volunteer services will also be arranged regularly to encourage young people to contribute to the community and establish their sense of belonging to society and responsibility. For details about the project and the means of application, please visit the website of YOT Hub (yot-hub.yot.org.hk).                A spokesperson of the HYAB said, “YOT Hub is well connected by public transport with comprehensive community facilities in the vicinity. This project not only provides young people with a comfortable living environment but also enables them to broaden their horizons and achieve their personal development goals through various self-enhancement activities. We are delighted that the Subsidy Scheme continues to gain support from hotel and guesthouse operators to provide youth with an enabling environment and hope for the future. The HYAB will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders who share our vision to take forward youth hostel projects.”                Details about the Subsidy Scheme, including the guidelines to application and the application forms, have been uploaded to the HYAB website (www.hyab.gov.hk/en/policy_responsibilities/Social_Harmony_and_Civic_Education/youth_hostel_scheme.htm). Relevant organisations can submit their applications to the HYAB by post, email or other means.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 10:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Domestic violence – Darwin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have made multiple arrests in relation to domestic violence across Darwin.

    Yesterday, investigators from Strike Force Lyra attended a Domestic Violence incident in Leanyer and arrested a 34-year-old man within his vehicle.  While apprehending the offender, officers located dangerous drugs within the vehicle. The 34-year-old has since been charged with a number of domestic violence offences, drug offences, traffic offences, possess property, and fail to submit to saliva testing. He was granted bail to appear Darwin Local Court on 13 November 2024.

    Members from Strike Force Lyra also arrested a 38-year-old man yesterday in the Darwin area for an alleged domestic violence aggravated assault over the weekend. The man allegedly assaulted his female partner with broken glass, resulting in injuries. He was arrested without incident and has since been charged with Aggravated assault and breach domestic violence order. He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Detective Acting Sergeant Katherine Lumsden said “ Domestic and Family Violence has no place in our community and we appreciate the brave victims who reported these incidents to police.

    Anyone with information on domestic and family violence is urged  to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. In an emergency, always dial triple zero.

    Support services for those affected by domestic violence are available, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and Lifeline (13 11 14).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: August crime statistics

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police involved in the Operation Mandrake anti-gang crime initiative have arrested six individuals involved in four separate crime sprees in August.

    The alleged offenders, who are either known persons of interest to investigators or associates, are facing dozens of charges including serious criminal trespass involving 16 residential and business break-ins, the illegal use of five vehicles, using stolen credit cards and petrol theft.

    Despite the crime series contributing 33 individual property related offences to the August rolling crime statistics, an overall decrease in offences against property of two per cent was recorded in the period.

    Assistant Commissioner (Metropolitan Operations Service) Scott Duval said the criminal activities of those allegedly involved in the crime series presented a significant risk to community safety and well-being.

    “They are breaking into houses, they are breaking into business premises, they are stealing cars,’’ he said.

    “And they do drive at high speeds in stolen vehicles, often filming their exploits and posting to social media.

    “This activity is clearly a risk to other road users, their behaviour is dangerous and extreme.’’

    Mr Duval said police were often frustrated by the fact some of the young offenders continued to offend after being released on bail by the Youth Court.

    “We have numerous examples of multiple offences being committed by individuals who have been released on bail on numerous occasions. They are serious recidivist offenders,’’ he said.

    The August rolling year figures reveal the number of shop thefts continued to increase with 17,956 offences reported during the period, compared with 16,802 in the previous period. While the overall figure increased, the increase has slowed considerably over the past six reporting periods as police continue to successfully target recidivist offenders.

    The latest statistics also reveal house break-ins recorded a three per cent decrease in the period with 5,691 offences reported, compared with 5,840 in the corresponding period.

    Car theft and illegal use of a motor vehicle also decreased during the period with 325 fewer incidents – 3,582 compared with 3,907 in the corresponding period. Theft from a motor vehicle also fell considerably, from 10,604 offences to 8,834 offences.

    Fraud and deception related offences also showed a significant decline with a 26 per cent decrease to 4,192 offences compared with 5,686 offences in the previous period.

    The number of family and domestic abuse related offences reported to police has continued to be high with the rolling year figures revealing 13,028 offences were reported to police.

    The number of sexual offences reported to police decreased by eight per cent from 2,566 offences to 2,357 offences in the latest period. An identical decrease was recorded in the July 2023 to July 2024 period.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Prestons community a step closer to new ambulance station

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 23 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Health, Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Minister for Regional Health

    The Liverpool community is a step closer to having a new purpose-built ambulance station at Prestons following the purchase of a site on Enterprise Circuit.

    The new Prestons Ambulance Station is being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $615.5 million NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program.

    Health Infrastructure and NSW Ambulance carried out a thorough evaluation of the site to ensure the location best meets the needs of our emergency ambulance operations and paramedic staff.

    New ambulance stations are located at places which optimise ambulance response performance and meet the needs of local community. NSW Ambulance identified Prestons as a high priority location following a comprehensive service planning process using best practice modelling software to map Triple Zero (000) calls.

    The next steps for the project include design development and seeking planning approval for the new ambulance station. Construction and operational timeframes will be determined as the project progresses.

    The NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program will deliver 30 additional ambulance stations and supporting infrastructure across Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle and Wollongong over the coming years, boosting frontline emergency ambulance care.

    Health Infrastructure is working with NSW Ambulance and other Government stakeholders to identify potential sites for new ambulance stations.

    Sites are confirmed for North Sydney, South Windsor, Oran Park, Berowra and now Prestons.

    New stations across south-western Sydney are also planned to service the communities of Raby, Prairiewood, Doonside, Glenmore Park, the Aerotropolis and Bargo.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “I’m delighted our paramedics will have a purpose-built ambulance station to support them while they deliver world-class emergency mobile medical care to our communities well into the future.

    “The purchase of the site marks a significant milestone in delivering a vital health service for the local community and surrounding areas.

    “The new ambulance station at Prestons will bolster the ambulance station network across the growing communities of south-western Sydney and support existing ambulance stations including at Liverpool and Macquarie Fields.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Macquarie Fields Anoulack Chanthivong:

    “I welcome this investment in urgent medical care services for our rapidly-growing region.

    “An ambulance service at Prestons means more local jobs for south-west Sydney, and better response times in emergencies. It’s a win-win for our fast-growing communities.”   

    Quotes attributable to Member for Liverpool Charishma Kaliyanda:

    “As Liverpool grows, it is important that we invest in health infrastructure to meet the needs of the community.

    “The new station is a testament to the NSW Government’s dedication to providing first-class emergency services in the fast growing communities of south west Sydney.

    “We know health services like Liverpool Hospital are under a lot of pressure, and this announcement demonstrates that the NSW Government is actively working to ensure Liverpool has what we need to meet the demand, now and into the future.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty:

    “This new ambulance station in Prestons will provide better care for families across the region.

    “South-western Sydney is growing rapidly, and it’s crucial that our frontline services grow with us.

    “This new station will strengthen the entire network and ensure our local paramedics have the resources and facilities they need to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Appoints Shanny Campbell as Lao PDR Country Director

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    VIENTIANE, LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC (23 October 2024) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Shanny Campbell as its Country Director for the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). She assumed office this week. Ms. Campbell will lead ADB’s operations in the Lao PDR in support of its national development goals, including its ambition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2030.

    “I am honored to serve in this new role as ADB’s Country Director in the Lao PDR,” said Ms. Campbell. “I look forward to working closely with the government and development partners in supporting the country’s sustainable public finances, enhancing equitable access to services, and advancing its climate commitments.”

    Ms. Campbell, a national of New Zealand and the United Kingdom, joined ADB in 2010 from the private sector. She has 31 years of experience across 26 countries in the transport, energy, agriculture and water resources, and finance sectors. Prior to this appointment, she was ADB’s Country Director for Tajikistan. She holds a Master of Development and Bachelor of Science degrees from the Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.

    The Lao PDR has been a member of ADB since 1966. As of December 2023, ADB has committed 365 public sector loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling $2.7 billion to the country.

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road overnight lane closures

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    A closure of State Highway 2 (SH2) Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road (TELTR) is required, for 1 direction at a time, over 3 nights starting Monday 4 November between 8pm and 6am.

    To ensure the safety of contractors and the travelling public, the closures are required to remove the temporary steel barriers and repair the road surface.  

    What to expect: 

    • Monday 4 November – SH2 TELTR west bound lane closed between 8pm and 6am with a detour starting at the Domain Road Interchange, joining the Te Puke Highway, through Te Puke to the SH2/SH33 Paengaroa roundabout. 
    • Tuesday 5 November – SH2 TELTR east bound lane closed between 8pm and 6am with a detour route starting at the SH2/SH33 Paengaroa roundabout joining the Te Puke Highway, through Te Puke to the Domain Road Interchange. 
    • Wednesday 6 November is a contingency day, which may be required if work hasn’t been completed on either lane. 

    Outside of the closure times the current temporary traffic management remains, with a single lane open in each direction and a temporary speed limit of 70km/h. 
     
    For more information, please visit Rangiuru Business Park:

    rangiuru.co.nz(external link)
     
    Detour information: 

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New research shows problematic community attitudes allow child sexual abuse to continue

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrea de Silva, Adjunct professor, Monash University

    Many Australians are victims and survivors of child sexual abuse.

    Almost one in three have been sexually abused as a child, generally more than once, and often with significant and lifelong impacts.

    The National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse has released findings from more than 4,000 adults in a new study examining the community’s attitudes towards, knowledge of, and responses to child sexual abuse.

    The data reveal some troubling findings, with pervasive and harmful community norms and attitudes that act to enable child sexual abuse to continue.

    What are social norms?

    Social norms are “rules” shared among people in a particular society, community, or group, and define what is considered “normal” and appropriate behaviour within the group.

    These rules are often unwritten and not openly discussed.

    These norms influence what people do (and don’t do) in many aspects of life, including preventing and responding to child sexual abuse.

    Why do they matter?

    Some cultures’ norms and attitudes limit disclosure of abuse.

    In our study, 62% were pretty sure they knew someone who had been sexually abused as a child.

    Yet only 9% had directly been told by a child about being sexually abused, while 35% had been told by an adult about historical child sexual abuse.

    These low rates suggest there are forces at play that limit talking about child sexual abuse.

    Some in the community believe it’s not acceptable to discuss child sexual abuse. In response to a hypothetical disclosure by an adult friend, about one in ten thought it was very/extremely important to tell their friend that it’s best not to talk about it at all.

    Some (5%) reported they would try to avoid their friend.

    What else did the research reveal?

    There was also evidence community members didn’t think child sexual abuse was an important problem or that it affected them directly.

    Around two in three adults felt they were not directly affected or were unsure if they were affected by child sexual abuse. More than half didn’t think child sexual abuse happened where they live.

    One in ten thought child sexual abuse receives too much media coverage.

    Some norms and attitudes also limit intervention to stop child sexual abuse.

    We found that of those who discovered or received a child’s disclosure about sexual abuse, less than half had a supportive conversation with the child (about 40%) and/or reported to authorities like police or child protection agencies (about 30%).

    Also, almost one in three adults were “not at all” confident about how to talk to the parent/carer of a child they suspected had been sexually abused. More than a quarter (28%) felt “not at all” confident about how to start a conversation with the child they suspected had been sexually abused.

    Not having these conversations or not reporting maintains secrecy around child sexual abuse. It can send a message to victims and survivors not to talk about it, or that nothing will be done to stop the abuse.

    Though the lack of intervention may be due to a lack of confidence, we also found adults held attitudes that children can’t always be believed (22%) or were too unreliable to take their word over an adult’s (18%).

    These attitudes mean many children won’t be believed and protected if they disclose sexual abuse.

    Some norms and attitudes increase acceptance of child sexual abuse, or blame victims, especially adolescents.

    Alarmingly, 40% of respondents in the study thought older children were responsible for actively resisting an adult’s sexual advances, and 12% believed adolescent girls who wear very revealing clothing are “asking” to be sexually abused.

    Adding to this, 13% believed children who act “seductively” are at least partly to blame if an adult responds sexually, while 8% thought obedient children are less likely to experience child sexual abuse, implying “good” children won’t be sexually abused.

    These harmful attitudes misdirect the blame for the abuse onto the victim, making it unsafe for them to disclose and at the same time, making it acceptable for adults to stay silent.

    Blaming victims maintains the status quo of unacceptably high levels of child sexual abuse and causes further harm.

    Where to from here?

    Putting an end to the sexual abuse of children in Australia requires concerted and co-ordinated action at all levels of society.

    Global initiatives offer some guidance on how shifting entrenched and harmful attitudes and norms can change behaviours.

    At a minimum, we must challenge gender inequality and power imbalances, promote equitable relationships and shared responsibilities. Mobilisation programs intervening directly at the community level and initiatives with specific populations who hold harmful and problematic attitudes are also promising in preventing child sexual abuse.

    Now we have benchmarks on the community’s attitudes towards child sexual abuse, we can measure the effectiveness of Australia’s efforts for change.

    It is everyone’s responsibility to know the signs, listen, believe and act in response to child sexual abuse.

    Andrea de Silva works for the National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse who conducted this study. The National Centre is funded by the Department of Social Services. The National Centre is a partnership between the Australian Childhood Foundation, Blue Knot Foundation and the Healing Foundation.

    Amanda L. Robertson works for the National Centre for Action on Child Sexual Abuse who conducted the study with funding from the Department of Social Services.

    – ref. New research shows problematic community attitudes allow child sexual abuse to continue – https://theconversation.com/new-research-shows-problematic-community-attitudes-allow-child-sexual-abuse-to-continue-241792

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel’s actions in Gaza, backed by the US, are shaking the world order to its core

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tristan Dunning, Sessional Academic, School of Social Sciences, Macquarie University

    While the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could have provided an off-ramp for the conflict in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing vows of “total victory” make this seem unlikely.

    The concept of “total victory”, however, is extremely problematic. Every time Israel declares an area cleared of Hamas and then withdraws, Hamas, which carried out the horrific attack on southern Israel on October 7 2023, has quickly returned to reestablish control.

    As a result, there has been a marked Israeli escalation in northern Gaza in recent days, and much discussion about a so-called “general’s plan” being pushed by some right-wing members of Netanyahu’s government.

    Concocted by a former Israeli general, Giora Eiland, the plan is, in essence, to forego negotiations, bisect the enclave and give northern Gaza’s 400,000 inhabitants the bleak choice between leaving and dying.

    We don’t know whether Netanyahu will officially endorse the plan. Israeli leaders reportedly told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken this week they are not implementing it. However, it nonetheless has broad support among Israel’s political and military elite.

    The Israeli military has already issued expulsion orders to the people of northern Gaza. The government has said anyone who remains would be considered a military target and will be deprived of food and water.

    While Israel denies obstructing humanitarian aid, the World Food Program said no food aid entered northern Gaza for two weeks in early October. While some aid has been entering since then, thousands are still at risk of starvation and outbreaks of preventable diseases.

    Moreover, many Palestinians, including the sick, elderly and wounded, are unable to move and have nowhere to go. The prospect of the overcrowded and unprotected tent cities of the south is hardly enticing.

    Israeli human rights groups say the military had been deliberately blocking aid to give the population no choice but to leave northern Gaza. Israel may now be backtracking under pressure from the United States, which has given Netanyahu’s government a 30-day deadline to increase the amount of aid it allows into Gaza or risk losing US weapons funding.

    Undermining international norms and rules

    Israel’s war against Gaza, and now Lebanon, has repeatedly challenged the foundations of the liberal international rules-based order set up after the second world war, as well as the tenets of international law, multilateral diplomacy, democracy and humanitarianism.

    The norms of the liberal world order are expressed in various institutions, such as:

    • the UN Charter
    • the UN Security Council, with its notionally legally binding resolutions
    • the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague
    • the Geneva Conventions governing the rules of war
    • the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
    • and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), among many others.

    Recently, the ICJ ruled Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem is illegal and ordered it to withdraw. In response, Netanyahu said the court had made a “decision of lies”.

    In a separate case, South Africa brought a charge to the ICJ, alleging Israel has committed genocide against the Palestinian people over the past year. The world’s top court has preliminarily ruled there is a “plausible” case for a finding of genocide, and said Israel must take measures to ensure its prevention.

    At this juncture, however, human rights groups and others have argued that Israel has failed to comply with this order, thereby undermining one of the key institutions of the liberal world order.

    This is compounded by the fact that few major democratic states have been willing to strongly condemn Israel’s failure to comply with international law in Gaza – or have done so belatedly – let alone intervened in any concrete fashion.

    In addition, the UN Security Council has failed – primarily due to the veto power exercised by the US – to take any tangible measures to enforce its own resolutions against Israel, as well as the rulings of the ICJ.

    This is fuelling widespread perceptions of hypocrisy in relation to the accountability of notionally democratic states for alleged violations of humanitarian law, compared with other nations that don’t have great power patrons.

    In the early 1990s, for instance, the UN Security Council unanimously passed several resolutions against Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait, followed a decade later by resolutions demanding Saddam Hussein’s regime comply with weapons inspection mandates. The US and its allies used these resolutions as the legal justification for their invasion of Iraq. Ultimately, no weapons of mass destruction were found. Then UN Secretary General Kofi Annan later said the invasion of Iraq was illegal and contrary to the UN Charter.

    However, dozens of UN Security Council resolutions concerning Israel have been passed and not enforced. Many others have been vetoed by the US.

    The prosecutors of the ICC have also requested arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged crimes against humanity (in addition to several Hamas leaders, now dead). The warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant were met with indignation by some Western politicians. Yet, the West broadly praised the ICC’s arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    Furthermore, the US Congress attempted to sanction the court over the Netanyahu arrest warrant, once again underscoring the often selective way in which international law is applied by nation states.

    A crisis of legitimacy for the world order

    Democratic states like to present themselves as the protectors, and sometimes enforcers, of the liberal world order, ensuring continued international peace and security.

    Indeed, Israel and its supporters often characterise its military actions as the forward defence of the democratic world against tyrannical larger powers, as a means of protecting itself from adversaries that want to destroy it. The problem is Israel’s actions often directly contradict the liberal world order it purports to defend, thereby undermining its legitimacy.

    Failure to rein in Israel’s actions has led to accusations of “double standards” regarding international law. The US and Germany provide Israel with 99% of its arm imports and diplomatic cover. Although Germany has stopped approving new weapons exports to Israel, both countries certainly have more leverage to stop the carnage in Gaza if they wish.

    The West’s self-abrogated moral superiority is arguably in tatters as it continues to undermine the principles of the liberal world order. The question is: if this world order falls, what will the new world order look like?

    Tristan Dunning has signed a statement of solidarity with Palestine from academics in Australian universities.

    Shannon Brincat has signed a statement of solidarity with Palestine from academics in Australian universities.

    Martin Kear 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. Israel’s actions in Gaza, backed by the US, are shaking the world order to its core – https://theconversation.com/israels-actions-in-gaza-backed-by-the-us-are-shaking-the-world-order-to-its-core-241460

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Should a big tech tax fund news? A new report reopens debate on platforms and media

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rod Sims, Professor in the practice of public policy and antitrust, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University

    Meta’s announcement nearly eight months ago that it would no longer do commercial deals under the News Media Bargaining Code has led to much speculation as to how the government would respond.

    The code became law in 2021. Facing the threat of designation under it – which would involve further legal obligations platforms may wish to avoid – both Google and Facebook (now Meta) did deals with news media businesses worth up to A$250 million per year.

    Google did deals with essentially all qualifying news media business, large and small – the criteria largely being that their journalists provide news. Facebook did deals with news businesses likely employing up to 85% of Australian journalists

    With little response from the government so far, a new report from a federal parliamentary committee investigating the impact of social media on Australian society provides welcome focus on this issue.

    Key recommendations

    The committee makes 11 recommendations, three of which in particular are worth focusing on.

    Recommendation two says the Australian government should explore alternative revenue mechanisms to supplement the code, such as a digital platform levy. But it also says “exploration should include consideration for preserving current and future commercial deals”, presumably under the code.

    Recommendation three says the Australian government should develop an appropriate mechanism to guide the fair and transparent distribution of revenue arising from any new revenue mechanisms. In particular, this would support the:

    sustainability of small, independent and digital only publishers, as well as those operating in underserved communities and rural, regional and remote areas.

    Recommendation six says the Australian government “should investigate the viability and effectiveness of ‘must carry’ requirements for digital platforms in relation to Australian news content”.

    Coalition members provided a different perspective on some of the committee’s recommendations. They expressed concern about the lack of action from the government in response to Meta’s decision to not do more deals under the code. Further, they read the report as saying that the code is “no longer fit for purpose” – a view they strongly disagree with.

    Meta has also heavily criticised the committee, saying it has ignored:

    the realities of how our platforms work, the preferences of the people who use them, and the value we provide news publishers who choose to post their content on our platforms.

    Meta, parent company of Instagram and Facebook, is strongly opposed to paying a levy to fund news media.
    QubixStudio/Shutterstock

    Not so simple

    The committee’s recommendations raise many questions.

    First, how would the levy sit with wanting to maintain existing and future deals under the code? In any solution to dealing with Meta it would seem silly to damage the current arrangements with Google, which has committed to continue supporting news organisations under the code, and who are paying the majority of the up to $250 million per year?

    Second, biasing any revenue to smaller and/or rural and regional publishers may mean that, despite most news stories coming from the larger media companies, they would not benefit in accordance with their content being used. The code did see benefit to large, medium and small media businesses. But, of course, the larger companies gained most money as they provided most content.

    Some smaller media businesses did miss out on funding. But it was often judged that they do not provide news journalism, which was what the code is seeking to promote.

    In 2018, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (of which I was then chair) made a number of recommendations to the government. These included the code. They also included government funding for journalism in underserved areas and support for other objectives, such as boosting smaller news media companies. A different objective requiring a different policy instrument.

    Third, the problem that arose with Meta’s decision to not do further deals under the code saw many calls for Meta to be designated under the code. This would have meant they would be forced to do deals and potentially face arbitration if the news media businesses were not happy with the outcome.

    As the parliamentary committee would be aware, when Canada largely copied the code, it automatically designated Meta. In response, Meta took all news and links to news off its platform. This allows Meta to escape the Canadian version of the code as it only applies to platforms that carry news.

    One solution to this is to insist the tech platforms “must carry” news, as suggested in recommendation six. Then they would be back under the code and could be successfully designated and forced to negotiate. It is unclear in the report whether the “must carry” idea, which would make the code relevant to all platforms, is an alternative to the levy.

    A way through

    Overall, the report provides welcome renewed focus on this topic. By recommending the government “explore” a levy or “investigate” must carry obligations, the committee appears to recognise the potential difficulties with these options.

    Would there be international trade implications from a levy? How would money from a levy be distributed? It is one thing to have a fund to help small players in underserved markets; quite another for the government to be distributing money to large media players.

    And how would the “must carry” provision be enforced given that carrying content may not be the same as users discovering it?

    But there may be a way through these problems. Allow Google to continue as they are under the code, look at what other platforms need to be covered by the code, and threaten that if Meta or another platform were to take news off their site, then a levy or a must carry provision would be introduced. In the case of Meta, such threats, which must be real, could see them revert to doing deals under the code.

    To help new and emerging news journalism, particularly in underserved areas, this would seem to require government funding, as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission recommended all the way back in 2018.

    Rod Sims is a former chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

    – ref. Should a big tech tax fund news? A new report reopens debate on platforms and media – https://theconversation.com/should-a-big-tech-tax-fund-news-a-new-report-reopens-debate-on-platforms-and-media-241897

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: NDB positioned to drive growth of member states

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The New Development Bank will make greater efforts to advance economic growth in emerging economies and help address pressing issues such as climate change as it welcomes more potential members, said Dilma Rousseff, the NDB’s president.

    To help emerging countries ensure stable development and avoid crises, the NDB will facilitate the building of infrastructure in areas such as logistics, education, digital services and healthcare, Rousseff had said during an interview in September after she received China’s Friendship Medal, the highest honor China offers foreigners.

    The NDB has already stepped up efforts to finance infrastructure projects in member countries. It has cumulatively approved loans of $35 billion for 105 projects, with the major ones being the Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III in India, the Serra da Palmeira Wind Power Project in Brazil, and the Jiangxi Urban and Rural Cold Chain Logistics Project in China, according to a Xinhua News Agency report.

    At the end of August, the NDB announced a $280 million loan agreement with Transnet, South Africa’s leading freight transport and logistics company, to support the modernization and improvement of the country’s freight rail sector.

    During a meeting of the bank’s board of directors in late August, a $1-billion loan was approved for financing South Africa’s water and sanitation infrastructure development. Another $150 million loan was approved to China’s Bank of Communications Financial Leasing for the acquisition of at least three liquefied natural gas carriers.

    In January, the NDB inked three loan agreements with India to boost the country’s transportation, water and sanitation infrastructure in designated areas. The combined value of the loans is about $700 million.

    As Rousseff pointed out, developing countries have limited capacity to address climate change. Further development and use of more renewable energy sources was needed, she said. As China is already a world leader in the electric vehicle segment, she hoped the nation would make more progress in energy storage and stable renewable energy supply.

    According to the NDB’s strategy between 2022 and 2026, climate change mitigation will be a focus area, as the majority 40 percent of the bank’s $30 billion financing to be provided by 2026 has been reserved for green goals.

    After issuing a 6-billion yuan ($840 million) five-year panda bond — yuan-denominated bonds issued by overseas institutions in the Chinese onshore market — at the beginning of the year, in July the NDB issued an 8-billion yuan three-year panda bond. The bonds are part of the bank’s efforts to finance infrastructure and sustainable development in member states while addressing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

    Initiated by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa in 2014 with the purpose of mobilizing resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging markets and developing countries, the NDB formally began operations in July 2015, with its headquarters in Shanghai.

    In 2021, the NDB began expanding its membership and admitted Bangladesh, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Uruguay as new member countries.

    “The partnership within the NDB does not sit on the development goals of respective members but rather represents the vision of member countries and better connects them,” she said, adding that the NDB welcomes other countries.

    A model for the future

    According to Rousseff, China’s development trajectory can serve as a good reference for the Global South. The nation’s experiences show that economic, infrastructure and technological development can overcome barriers, sanctions and obstacles, she said.

    Applauding China’s achievements in the fields of socioeconomic and cultural development over the past 75 years, Rousseff said that it is now taking the lead in innovation, helping to advance globalization and reform. The country’s stress on development of new quality productive forces has shown its dedication to scientific and technological development.

    “I feel like that there is no one single moment that I can have a full picture of China, as it is always developing, taking on a new look. The ever ongoing reform and opening-up has been refreshing China’s image,” she said.

    The stronger ties between China and Brazil are another good example, showing that partnership among the Global South countries can help facilitate economic growth and improve people’s well-being, she said.

    Under the Belt and Road Initiative, China and Brazil have strengthened their cooperation in the areas of trade and technology. At the same time, Brazil has served as China’s largest food supplier over the past few years, playing an important role in China’s food security, said Rousseff.

    Meanwhile, Chinese companies’ presence in Brazil is of great importance, facilitating Brazil’s reindustrialization, she said.

    As Rousseff further explained, there are several highlights in China’s investments in Brazil. These include the China National Offshore Oil Corporation’s concession contracts with Brazil’s leading oil and gas company Petrobras for oil exploration in the Pelotas Basin in southern Brazil.

    Also, the less-developed areas in Brazil have benefited from China’s investment in power and overall energy supply, and high-voltage direct transmission lines built by China have helped address Brazil’s energy shortage, she said.

    Since 2009, China has been Brazil’s largest trading partner and a major source of investment, while Brazil has been China’s largest trading partner in Latin America. Trade volume between China and Brazil reached $181.53 billion in 2023.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China issues list of investment projects worth 200B yuan

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Oct. 17, 2024 shows the construction site of the Beijing sub-center comprehensive transportation hub in Tongzhou District, sub-center of Beijing, capital of China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China has issued a list of projects worth 200 billion yuan (about 28 billion U.S. dollars) that are in next year’s investment plans, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) told Xinhua Tuesday.

    Numbering 647 in total, the investment projects issued in advance this year include urban underground pipe networks, using employment as a means of disaster relief, reinforcing dilapidated reservoirs, ecological conservation and restoration, transportation infrastructure, essential public facilities such as education, healthcare and culture, as well as key agricultural product storage facilities, according to the NDRC official.

    The NDRC will push ahead with the start-up and construction of the projects as soon as possible, said the official, adding that efforts will be made to achieve tangible progress this year so as to provide strong support for economic growth in the fourth quarter.

    The official noted that the foundation for achieving the full-year growth target is quite solid, citing favorable factors such as the growth momentum of high-frequency data for October and the country’s GDP growth rate of 4.8 percent in the first three quarters.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Huawei releases HarmonyOS NEXT operating system

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Yu Chengdong, Huawei’s executive director, speaks at the launch event of HarmonyOS NEXT in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, Oct. 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese tech giant Huawei on Tuesday released HarmonyOS NEXT, its self-developed operating system built independent of Android architecture.

    The launch event in Shenzhen, where the company is based, marks another milestone for Huawei since Washington put it on the “Entity List” in 2019, barring it from doing business with U.S. firms including Google, which provides Android.

    HarmonyOS NEXT is the fifth iteration of HarmonyOS. HarmonyOS has been installed on over 1 billion devices, said Yu Chengdong, Huawei’s executive director, at the event.

    Yu said that HarmonyOS NEXT is truly independent from Android and Apple’s iOS, with its own operating kernel, programming language, AI framework and other features that were developed without using the Linux kernel or Android open-source code.

    “HarmonyOS NEXT provides a new option and market space for the development of related industries around the world,” he said, hailing it as an open, secure and efficient operating system.

    Over the past year, Huawei worked with more than 10,000 domestic partners to develop HarmonyOS NEXT apps, helping build an innovative IT industrial chain, Yu said.

    As an open-source operating system, HarmonyOS was first launched in August 2019 and has replaced iOS to become the second-largest mobile operating system on the Chinese market.

    More than 15,000 applications and meta-services are available for use on HarmonyOS, according to Yu.

    Industry insiders say a major advantage of HarmonyOS is its coordination of various platforms, including smartphones, cars and other intelligent devices.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israeli military confirms killing of Hezbollah leader

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The Israeli military confirmed on Tuesday that Hashem Safieddine, the head of Hezbollah’s Executive Council, was killed in an airstrike on Beirut three weeks ago.

    Safieddine was killed in a bombing carried out by Israeli warplanes on Beirut’s southern suburb, the military said in a statement. The attack targeted a building where, according to Israel, Hezbollah’s main underground intelligence headquarters were located.

    The military said that about 25 senior Hezbollah commanders were present in the building during the attack but did not clarify whether they survived.

    Safieddine was a cousin of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. After Israel assassinated Nasrallah in September, Safieddine was widely presumed to be the successor.

    Safieddine was also a member of the Shura Council, Hezbollah’s highest military-political body, responsible for decision-making and setting the group’s policies.

    “We have reached Nasrallah, his successor, and most of Hezbollah’s leadership,” Herzi Halevi, chief of the general staff of the Israel Defense Forces, said following the announcement of Safieddine’s killing. “We will know how to reach anyone who threatens the security of Israel’s citizens.”

    Hezbollah has not commented on the announcement by the Israeli military.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US firms continue to seek investment opportunities in Chinese market

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Tourists take the sight-seeing cable car in Chongqing, southwest China, Aug. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Many U.S. companies are seeking investment opportunities in the Chinese market amid China’s introduction of a host of incremental policies to support economic growth.

    On Monday and Tuesday, a roundtable meeting between the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and U.S. multinationals was held in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality.

    Representatives from about 60 U.S. companies and chambers of commerce participated in the meeting.

    Several U.S. companies have recently announced increases in their investments in China, viewing it as a long-term, high-growth market, said Michael Hart, president of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, while adding that he hopes China’s opening-up policies rolled out this year will inject vitality into the Chinese economy.

    China’s recent incremental policies have reinforced enterprises’ confidence in the Chinese market, encouraging them to expand research and development, production and recruitment, said Tao Lin, vice president of Tesla.

    A number of foreign enterprises have participated in China’s national program of large-scale equipment renewals and trade-in of durable consumer goods, according to NDRC official Wen Hua. The program, which targets green and digital transformation, is open to foreign companies, including American firms, that can leverage their own strengths and offer competitive products and technologies, Wen said.

    The NDRC is revising the Catalog of Encouraged Industries for Foreign Investment, and efforts will be made to enhance the transparency of policy formulation and improve services for foreign-funded enterprises, said Hua Zhong, an official of the NDRC.

    The NDRC established the roundtable meeting mechanism in 2021 and nine related activities have taken place thus far. The aim of this mechanism is to encourage U.S. enterprises to participate deeply in building a higher-level open economy, while also sharing in the dividends resulting from the high-quality development of China’s economy.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Central SOEs invest 1.4 trillion yuan in emerging industries

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The investment of China’s centrally administrated state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in strategic emerging industries reached 1.4 trillion yuan (about 196.6 billion U.S. dollars) in the first three quarters of the year, official data showed Tuesday.

    The investment during the period jumped 17.6 percent year on year, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the central SOEs’ total investment, data from the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) of the State Council showed.

    The SASAC said it has guided the central SOEs to develop strategic emerging industries and launched actions to promote industrial upgrading and boost future industries, achieving positive results.

    The central SOEs have made a series of important achievements in key areas such as new-generation information technology, artificial intelligence and new-energy vehicles, it added.

    Data from the SASAC also showed that the operating revenue of the central SOEs in strategic emerging industries in 2023 has exceeded 10 trillion yuan for the first time.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s forex market sees active trading

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    China’s foreign exchange market recorded active trading during the first nine months of this year, demonstrating strong resilience with market expectations and transactions remaining generally rational and orderly, the country’s forex regulator said on Tuesday.

    China’s foreign exchange market saw a turnover of 30.27 trillion U.S. dollars from January to September 2024, up 10.1 percent year on year, Li Hongyan, deputy head of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, told a press conference.

    Li noted that foreign exchange settlements and sales moved toward equilibrium, as exchange rate expectations among domestic entities remained stable and foreign exchange transactions were carried out in an orderly and sensible manner.

    Despite the complex global economic and financial landscape, China’s foreign exchange market has weathered external challenges and shown signs of stabilization and improvement.

    The RMB exchange rate has remained stable amid two-way fluctuations, demonstrating increased flexibility, Li said. The balance of payments has also held steady — underpinned by a solid trade surplus.

    Li highlighted growing equilibrium in cross-border capital movements, with foreign investment in China rising along with steady inflows into domestic bonds.

    Net foreign investment in domestic bonds surpassed 80 billion U.S. dollars in the first three quarters of 2024, while foreign investment in Chinese equities saw notable improvement.

    Outbound investments by Chinese entities also progressed smoothly, as both direct and securities investments enjoyed steady growth, she said.

    The increasing maturity and resilience of China’s foreign exchange market have enhanced its ability to adapt to external shifts, providing solid support for maintaining stability in the country’s balance of payments, Li added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rural News – OSPRI’s donation continues support for farmers

    Source: OSPRI New Zealand

    Disease management agency OSPRI has announced a funding package commitment for the Rural Support Trust, a charity they consider critical to the success of their work.
    The Rural Support Trust offers one to one support to those struggling with the pressures of life on the farm. As such, they are a vital safety net in the rural community, and their team of local experienced people will be relied on as the sector confronts tough economic conditions.
    To provide support when and where it is needed, resourcing is critical, and while partially funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries, the Trust relies on additional charitable donations. Recognising this and valuing the Trust’s support around the impact of its disease management programmes, OSPRI recently committed to annual donations over the next three years.
    “The impact of disease on farmers’ wellbeing is well documented, and we experience first-hand the stress that comes to bear on farming families when their livestock become infected with TB or M.bovis” says Helen Thoday, OSPRI’s North Island General Manager for Service Delivery. “So having a partner like The Rural Support Trust, often involving someone who’s been through it too, to help, is an important part of recovery”.
    As a not for profit itself, OSPRI understands just how important financial assurance is. “We’ve worked with the Rural Support Trusts previously, providing funding to ensure they could meet community needs during the Hawkes Bay TB outbreak. When taking on the surveillance of M.bovis last year, we also continued the funding, started by MPI, to support those farmers impacted by the disease. So, it’s gratifying to make a commitment of ongoing donations to support farmers dealing with infected herds, or any personal difficulty really” confirms Helen.
    Amanda Jordan, the Chair of Taranaki Rural Support has also been a long-time defender of biosecurity and continues this work with one of OSPRI’s farmer committees. As a 5th generation jersey cow farmer, Amanda and her family have battled through plenty of challenges, and she still remembers the impact of TB – at one stage managing three of the seven herds infected in Taranaki. Between that experience and calling on the Trust herself, Amanda was determined to do more for her industry and talks warmly about a network of locals. “We’ve an amazing coordinator, and an important part of her work is listening to the caller carefully, and then finding the right willing person in the community. If we’re concerned about welfare, we’ll find support quickly and close by, but often it’s about someone with the right experiences or background for a situation”.
    Fourteen Rural Support Trusts operate across regions throughout New Zealand, and then there is a national office providing coordination to ensure ground support remains widely accessible to those who need it. “I’m hugely proud of each Trusts’ efforts, there’s real comfort in having someone to walk with you during tough times – so providing those rural connections is such an important part of it” says Maria Shanks, General Manager of New Zealand Rural Support Trust. “We’re lucky to have a collection of principle sponsors and partners and pleased to have OSPRI’s support as they also work amongst our communities”.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: New air-cargo route links Shanxi, Almaty

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A new air freight route officially opened Monday, linking Taiyuan, capital city of north China’s Shanxi Province, and Almaty in Kazakhstan.

    A freighter, loaded with cargo including clothing and daily consumer goods, left Taiyuan Wusu International Airport for Almaty on Monday morning, according to the customs of Taiyuan.

    The round-trip flights will operate twice each week, on Mondays and Fridays. The type of goods transported via the route is expected to be increased in the future.

    The first flight on the route marks the official opening of the air cargo channel connecting Shanxi with the Central Asian country, injecting new impetus into the economic and trade exchanges between the two sides, said the customs.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MoU signed on green shipping corridor between Shanghai, Hamburg ports

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Shanghai Port and the Port of Hamburg, Germany on Tuesday jointly announced the building of a green shipping corridor between the two ports, a move aimed at promoting their green transformation, strengthening cooperation and exchange, and collectively advancing the sustainable development of the global shipping industry.

    The Shanghai Municipal Transportation Commission, the Hamburg Port Authority, COSCO SHIPPING Lines Co., Ltd. and the Shanghai International Port (Group) Co., Ltd. signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on jointly building the green shipping corridor at the North Bund Forum, which opened in Shanghai on Tuesday.

    According to the MoU, the signing parties will cooperate in promoting the construction and use of shore power at the ports, explore and promote the necessary infrastructure, regulations and preferential policies needed for the supply, use and refueling of green fuels, and invite more partners to join in the efforts to achieve the green shipping corridor goal.

    Jens Meier, CEO of the Hamburg Port Authority, said many other ports are expected to follow the example of building green shipping corridors.

    It’s not just an agreement between two ports, he said. “We should increase our network of green shipping corridors all over the world.”

    China has committed to a “dual carbon” goal of reaching the peak of carbon emissions by 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2060.

    As part of the efforts to contribute to the goal, Shanghai Port has signed agreements with the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to co-build green shipping corridors.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: More elderly living alone, survey says

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

    The number of elderly people living alone in China has increased significantly since 2010 as they tend to have fewer children, highlighting the significance of strengthening the nation’s elder care system, according to the results of a survey released recently.

    The survey considers an individual elderly once he or she reaches the age of 60.

    Elderly empty nesters — those who live by themselves or live with their spouses only — accounted for 59.7 percent of all the elderly people in China in 2021, up 10.4 percentage points from 2010, according to the fifth sample survey on the living conditions of urban and rural senior residents.

    About three-fourths of empty nesters lived with their spouses. The proportion of rural empty nesters was slightly higher than that of their urban counterparts, standing at nearly 62 percent, the survey said.

    The survey was jointly conducted in 2021 by six government departments and elder care industry associations, including the Ministry of Civil Affairs and the National Health Commission. The results were made public recently.

    It also shows that the average number of children that each senior had in 2021 was 2.6, down by 0.6 from 2010. Rural elderly had slightly more children on average at 2.9, compared with 2.3 for urban senior residents.

    “In various aspects of daily life, middle-old (70 to 79 years old) and very-old (80 and above) empty nesters tend to confront greater risks, so the growing size of this population has posed higher demands for developing at-home and community-based elder care services,” said the China National Aging Committee, which was involved in the survey, in a statement explaining the results.

    The committee added that the trend of having fewer children will diminish families’ ability to care for seniors, thus requiring accelerated efforts to improve supportive policies for home-based and public elder care.

    China is coping with a rapidly aging population. Official data shows that the number of people age 60 and older was almost 297 million last year, comprising 21.1 percent of the total population. The proportion of elderly is expected to exceed 30 percent of the nation’s population by 2035.

    The deepening aging trend has prompted authorities to step up development of home-based and community elderly care homes, strengthen the integration of medical and elder care services and encourage the private sector to make investments in the elder care industry.

    Survey results show that the number of elderly who have become more accepting of care provided by elder care institutions has increased by 3.3 percentage points since 2015.

    “Their demands tend to be more varied over time, and their top five demands are at-home medical services, meal assistance, cultural and entertainment activities, health education and at-home cleaning services,” the survey said.

    Li Yongxin, an official at the Ministry of Civil Affairs, said during a news conference on Monday that the number of elder care facilities in China had increased to around 410,000 by June, double the figure seen in 2019. The majority of them are community-based.

    To address the prominent healthcare demands of the rural elderly, Li said that efforts are being made to upgrade rural elder care homes into regional eldercare centers. Public venues in the countryside that sit idle will be the first considered for conversion into care facilities or canteens for seniors.

    According to the survey, more than 56 percent of the elderly population in 2021 consisted of the younger group, from 60 to 69 years old, which was on par with the level seen in 2010.

    “Young elderly represent important and valuable human resources that have great potential,” said the committee, adding that the age structure of China’s elderly population in China will continue to remain relatively young.

    At the same time, the proportion of seniors with a senior high school diploma or degree from a higher education institute also increased from 2010 to 2021.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: North China expands trade via freight rail

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

    With regular freight train service from Qisumu International Logistics Park in Ulaanqab, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, to Moscow now in operation, experts said the new route opens a trade channel for North China, and will further expand its exports with the support of the Belt and Road Initiative.

    Launched on Oct 16, the route marks a new addition to the China-Europe freight railway lines originating from Ulaanqab, and is also the city’s first eastbound route along this line.

    Ulaanqab is one of the first 23 cities that was designated as a national logistics hub for the China-Europe freight train service.

    Since the launch of its first China-Europe freight train in 2016, Ulaanqab has expanded operations to eight countries, with destinations such as Yekaterinburg, Russia and Almaty, Kazakhstan. The city now operates 22 international routes.

    As of Oct 16, Ulaanqab’s China-Europe freight routes have operated 806 trains with 33,000 carriages, with a total cargo value of $1.53 billion.

    In recent years, Inner Mongolia has prioritized the development of the freight train network, focusing on Ulaanqab’s role as a key gateway for northbound trade.

    “The autonomous region aims to further enhance its participation in the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor by strengthening Ulaanqab’s logistics capabilities,” said Liang Jing, deputy general manager of Inner Mongolia Asia Europe International Logistics Ltd.

    Citing the importance of the east route of the China-Europe freight service, Liang said, “The new route will increase railway capacity, optimize platform resources and improve service efficiency to further integrate Ulaanqab into the high-quality development of the BRI.”

    Liang said Ulaanqab’s proximity to Ereenhot — only 327 kilometers away — also plays a big role in lowering logistics costs, as many of the products manufactured in Inner Mongolia are transported via these routes.

    So far this year, the region’s government has invested 800 million yuan ($112.4 million) in infrastructure to support Sino-European freight services, including the construction of a logistics center.

    Major exports on this route from Inner Mongolia include sunflower seeds from Bayannuur, Chery automobiles from Ordos, and local timber, grain and oil products, which make up about two-thirds of the region’s total goods transported. Local products account for up to 50 percent of the total freight, Liang said.

    From January to September, 14,689 China-Europe freight trains were operated nationwide, marking a 13 percent year-on-year increase, said China State Railway Group Co Ltd, the nation’s railway operator.

    The trains transported 1.57 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of goods, an 11 percent year-on-year rise.

    In September, over 171,000 TEUs of products were transported by 1,633 China-Europe freight trains, marking 12 percent and 15 percent year-on-year increases, respectively. The freight service saw monthly operations of over 1,600 trains for seven consecutive months so far this year.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Johnson, Chairman Steil Demand Classified Briefings on Potential Foreign Influence in U.S. Elections

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – On Thursday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and U.S. Congressman Bryan Steil (R-Wis.) sent letters to the U.S. Treasury Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) requesting information on potential election interference through fraudulent donations by foreign actors. In the letter to Treasury, Chairman Steil and Ranking Member Johnson requested Suspicious Activity Reports related to ActBlue. They also requested that all three agencies provide classified briefings on the matter.
    Excerpts from the letters read:
    “As Chairman of the Committee on House Administration (“CHA”) and as the Ranking Member of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (“PSI”), both with broad oversight of our nation’s federal elections, we write to you to raise an urgent concern regarding potential illicit election funding by foreign actors.”
    “CHA has been investigating claims that foreign actors, primarily from Iran, Russia, Venezuela, and China, may be using ActBlue to launder illicit money into U.S. political campaigns. The investigation has indicated that these actors may be exploiting existing U.S. donors by making straw donations without their knowledge.”
    Read the full letters here.
    Background:
    On April 17, 2023, Ranking Member Ron Johnson wrote to the Federal Election Commission (“FEC”) regarding a video posted online by the O’Keefe Media Group on March 28, 2023 alleging that political donations are being made in large amounts to certain political groups without the donors’ knowledge. The FEC refused to confirm or deny whether it is investigating this matter.
    On October 31, 2023, following reports that ActBlue was accepting political contributions without a card verification value (CVV), Chairman Steil sent a letter demanding answers on ActBlue’s practices, questioning if they are complying with federal campaign finance laws and preventing foreign and illegal contributions.
    On November 27, 2023, ActBlue responded to Chairman Steil’s letter saying it did not require a CVV in order to contribute on their website.
    On September 6, 2024, Chairman Steil introduced H.R. 9488, the Secure Handling of Internet Electronic Donations (SHIELD) Act. The legislation prohibits political committees from accepting an online contribution unless the contributor provides the CVV and billing address associated with the card and from accepting online contributions from prepaid cards. It also adopts a top legislative recommendation from the FEC to prohibit individuals from knowingly aiding or abetting a person making a contribution in the name of another person.
    On September 11, 2024, the SHIELD Act passed the Committee on House Administration by a voice-vote.
    On September 18, 2024, Chairman Steil sent letters to the Attorneys General from Texas, Virginia, Arkansas, Florida, and Missouri, updating them on the Committee’s investigation into ActBlue, a major democratic fundraising platform. Along with the letter, the Attorneys General received the data and evidence that the Committee has collected over the course of almost a year. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Grill seekers – Burglars cooking up trouble with a stolen BBQ.

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    At about 3.30pm on Monday afternoon, two people broke a window to enter a house in Fairfield Hamilton setting off the house alarm which alerted a passerby.

    They were then seen running from the address carrying a television set.

    Witnesses saw them ditch the television over a back hedge, then leave in a white Holden vehicle, which had been parked in the driveway of the victim’s house.

    Police units recognised the description of the vehicle as it had been spotted acting suspiciously in the area earlier in the day. 

    At about 4.45pm, Police located the Holden vehicle and two people matching the descriptions of the burglars. 

    They were found at the shops in Dinsdale, parked in a disability car park.

    The offenders were trying to sell a BBQ at the Dollar Dealers when they were confronted by Police.

    Both attempted to resist the officer, and they were sprayed with O/C spray and arrested, without further incident.

    Inspector Andrea McBeth, Area Commander Hamilton City says, “This is a good catch and we appreciate the people who called us so quickly with good descriptions.

    This incident serves as a timely reminder to anyone leaving their property unattended for a period of time to take steps to make sure it’s secure.

    Burglars are largely opportunistic. Alarms will help discourage any burglar looking for easy entry and, in this case, it did.  It alerted members of the public who were able to help.

    Locks on windows and doors can be effective, as well as security signage, CCTV, alarms, and sensor lights.

    Be wary of posting too much information on social media about holiday or travel plans, or photos of inside your home, as this can make your property a vulnerable target while you’re away.

    Keep in contact with your neighbours and let each other know if you notice anything unusual.

    Call Police straight away on 111 if you see or suspect anything suspicious at your home or a neighbour’s.

    When reporting activity, it’s helpful to take note of the number of people, clothing they wear, and any vehicles present.

    You can make a report after the fact using our 105 service, either by phone or online.

    A woman aged 22 is charged with burglary and a man aged 40 is charged with burglary, resisting arrest, obstructing police, and possession of an offensive weapon.  They both appeared in the Hamilton District Court today. 

    The driver of the Holden vehicle also received a number of tickets including one for illegally parking in a disability car park.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected counterfeit goods worth about $14.9 million (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected counterfeit goods worth about $14.9 million (with photos)
    Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected counterfeit goods worth about $14.9 million (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         ​Hong Kong Customs from October 9 to 16 seized about 74 700 items of suspected counterfeit goods at the Tuen Mun River Trade Terminal Customs Cargo Examination Compound. The total estimated market value of the seizure was about $14.9 million.           Through risk assessment, Customs inspected four 40-foot containers, declared as carrying footwear and arriving in Hong Kong from the Mainland, in the abovementioned period. After inspection, Customs officers found the batch of suspected counterfeit sports shoes therein.           An initial investigation revealed that the batch of suspected counterfeit goods would be transshipped to overseas regions.           An investigation is ongoing.           Customs will continue to combat cross-boundary counterfeit goods activities by interception at source, with stringent enforcement action based on risk assessment and intelligence analysis.           Under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, any person who imports or exports any goods to which a forged trademark is applied commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for five years.           Members of the public may report any suspected counterfeiting activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 80 80 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Property owner fined over $80,000 for persistently not complying with removal order

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         A property owner who persistently failed to comply with a removal order issued under the Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123) was convicted and fined over $80,000 at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts earlier this month.
     
         The case involved two unauthorised building works (UBWs) with a total area of about 33 square metres on the roof and ground floor of a house in Yuen Long. As the UBWs were carried out without prior approval and consent from the Buildings Department (BD), a removal order was served on the owner under section 24(1) of the BO.
     
         Failing to comply with the removal order, the owner was prosecuted by the BD and was fined over $6,000 upon conviction by the court. The owner removed one of the UBWs, i.e. UBWs on the roof after the prosecution, but UBWs were later found re-erected on the roof again. As the owner persisted in not complying with the removal order, the BD instigated prosecution again. The owner was fined $83,600 in total, of which $53,600 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, upon conviction again at the Tuen Mun Magistrates’ Courts on October 4.
     
         A spokesman for the BD today (October 23) said, “UBWs may lead to serious consequences. The owners concerned must comply with the removal orders without delay. The BD will continue to take enforcement actions and consider instigating prosecution against the owners again if they persist in not complying with the orders, so as to ensure building safety.”
     
         Failure to comply with a removal order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence under the BO. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $200,000 and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of $20,000 for each day that the offence continues.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: EOI – Expert Advisory Group Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Redesign

    Source: Government of Victoria 2

    Expressions of interest are open for an Expert Advisory Group to inform the redesign of community-based mental health and wellbeing services in Victoria.

    The department is undertaking a significant reform program to redesign community based mental health and wellbeing services delivered by Area Mental Health and Wellbeing Services, including in partnership with non-government organisations.

    The Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Redesign (Community Redesign) project aims to deliver a comprehensive system design and strategy to improve community-based service responses for people of all ages with moderate to severe mental illness who have more intensive treatment, care, and support needs.

    Recommendations 3.2 b and c, 5–8, 19 and 20 of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System detail some of the service delivery expectations for community-based mental health services. In 2024–25, a new phase of implementation will focus on reform priorities that translate policy and planning into systemic, operational change.

    Role and Scope

    The Expert Advisory Group is a time-limited group comprising leaders and representatives, including those with lived and living experience of the mental health and wellbeing sector.

    It will help address key questions and considerations that may arise during the planning and design phases. It will provide advice on the implications and risks for specific communities, services and stakeholders and guidance on the approach to engagement with stakeholders.

    Who can apply?

    This expression of interest is open to:

    • Consumers with a lived experience of accessing community-based mental health and wellbeing services including psychosocial supports.
    • Carers, families and supporters of people accessing community-based mental health and wellbeing services including psychosocial supports.
    • People who have experience working in or managing Area Mental Health Services for the Adult and Older Adult and Infant, Child and Youth cohorts.
    • People who have experience supporting diverse communities who are accessing community-based mental health and wellbeing services.
    • People who represent First Nations mental health and wellbeing services.
    • Representatives of non-government organisations delivering community-based mental health and wellbeing services.
    • Representatives of the mental health and wellbeing workforce or industrial relations.

    Do you have:

    • A special interest or passion for infant, child and youth and/or adult and older adult mental health and a strong desire to see service system improvements?
    • Expertise and/or experience in policy development and/or service or system level design and implementation?
    • A commitment to centring the voices of people who have, and continue to, access Victoria’s mental health system and harnessing their knowledge and experience?
    • Knowledge or experience of the needs of diverse communities, for example Aboriginal communities, LGBTQIA+, disability and multicultural communities including people from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds?

    Period of appointment and expected time commitment

    The initial period of appointment is 12 months but may be subject to review pending the outcomes of the project phasing. Expert Advisory Group members will be required to meet online for one or one and half hours, up to 6 times in 2025, commencing in January.

    Meeting dates and times are to be determined when the appointments have been finalised. Some meetings may be held in person; adequate notice will be provided for in-person meetings. Meeting frequency may be subjected to review.

    The department will confirm upon appointment whether members have adjustment requests to support disabilities or health conditions, and this will be factored in to all planning activities.

    Conditions and remuneration

    Lived and living experience members whose participation is not part of their employment will be paid through the participation registers managed by the Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council and Tandem.

    Reasonable expenses will be covered for in-person meetings and will be subject to the department’s remuneration policies, outlined in the terms of reference.

    Selection process

    Applications will be reviewed in confidence. Shortlisting and Expert Advisory Group member selection will be led by the Victorian Department of Health. The department handles all personal information in accordance with the requirements of the Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic).

    How to apply

    Complete the application form to express your interest in joining the Expert Advisory Group.

    Application form – Expert Advisory Group Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Redesign

    pdf 802.87 KB | Updated: Yesterday at 11:36 pm

    For more information, email mhwsystemdesign@health.vic.gov.au.

    Please ensure that you obtain support from your employer prior to submitting your application (if applicable).

    Applications close midnight 6 November 2024.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: Founder Group Limited Announces Pricing of Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SELANGOR, Malyasia, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Founder Group Limited (“FGL” or the “Company”), a pure-play, end-to-end engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning (EPCC) solutions provider for solar PV facilities in Malaysia, today announced the pricing of its initial public offering (the “Offering”) of an aggregate 1,218,750 ordinary shares at a public offering price of $4.00 per share for total gross proceeds of $4.875 million, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses. In addition, the Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option (the “Over-Allotment Option”) to purchase up to an additional 182,813 ordinary shares at the initial public offering price, less underwriting discounts.

    The ordinary shares are scheduled to begin trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market on October 23, 2024, under the ticker symbol “FGL”. The Offering is expected to close on or about October 24, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.

    US Tiger Securities, Inc. (“US Tiger”) is acting as sole underwriter for the Offering. Hunter Taubman Fischer & Li LLC is acting as U.S. legal counsel to the Company, and Sichenzia Ross Ference Carmel LLP is acting as U.S. legal counsel to US Tiger.

    The Offering is being conducted pursuant to the Company’s registration statement on Form F-1 related to the Offering, as amended (File No. 333-281167), which was filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and was declared effective on September 30, 2024. The offering of the securities is being made only by means of a prospectus forming a part of the registration statement. Electronic copies of the final prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained, when available, by visiting the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov or by contacting US Tiger Securities, Inc. at 437 Madison Avenue, 27th Floor, New York, New York 10022, or by telephone at +1 646-978-5188.

    This press release has been prepared for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the Company’s securities, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation, or sale of such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Founder Group Limited

    Founder Group Limited is a pure-play, end-to-end EPCC solutions provider for solar PV facilities in Malaysia. The Company’s primary focus is on two key segments: large-scale solar projects and commercial and industrial (C&I) solar projects. The Company’s mission is to provide customers with innovative solar installation services, promote eco-friendly resources and achieve carbon-neutrality.

    For more information on the Company, please log on to https://www.founderenergy.com.my/.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect our current expectations and views of future events, including but not limited to, the Company’s proposed Offering. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including those listed under “Risk Factors” in the registration statement on Form F-1 related to the Offering, may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. You can identify some of these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

    Contact Information:

    Founder Group Limited Contact:
    Eric Lee
    Chief Executive Officer
    Telephone +03-3358 5638
    Email: ericlee@founderenergy.com.my

    Underwriter Inquiries:
    US Tiger Securities, Inc.
    437 Madison Avenue, FL 27
    New York, NY 10022
    Email: ECM@ustigersecurities.com

    Investor Relations Inquiries:
    Skyline Corporate Communications Group, LLC
    Scott Powell, President
    1177 Avenue of the Americas, 5th Floor
    New York, New York 10036
    Office: (646) 893-5835
    Email: info@skylineccg.com

    The MIL Network –