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H-1B visa process begins March 6 amid overhaul of lottery system (USCIS) said on Tuesday.
New York, Jan 31 (IANS)
The initial registration for the H-1B visa application for fiscal year 2025 will open from March 6 and run through March 22, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services
The announcement came as part of a final rule to strengthen the integrity of and reduce the potential for fraud in the registration process of the non-immigrant visa that allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. Some of the steps taken by the federal agency include reducing the potential for gaming the registration system and
ensuring each beneficiary would have the same chance of being selected, regardless of the number of registrations submitted on their behalf. “The initial registration period for the FY 2025 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 6, 2024, and run through noon Eastern on March 22, 2024,” USCIS said in a news release. continued on pg. 2
Meta CEO Zuckerberg apologizes to families at social media hearing in US San Francisco, Feb 1 (IANS)
Meta Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg has apologised to families at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on kids’ online safety in the US. When Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) pressed Zuckerberg to apologise to families who attended the hearing,
calling attention to kids who were targeted by predators online, Zuckerberg offered his apology.
During the hearing, Snap CEO Evan Spiegel informed that 20 million teenagers use Snapchat in the US and that around 200,000 parents use its Family Center supervision controls.
“I’m sorry for everything you have all been through,” he told the families in attendance He also shared that approxiat the hearing late on mately 400,000 teen accounts Wednesday. have been linked to a parent’s account through Family “No one should go through Center, reports TechCrunch. the things that your families have suffered and this is why Snapchat’s Family Center we invest so much and we allows parents to see who are going to continue doing industry wide efforts to make their teens are friends with on sure no one has to go through the app and who they have the things your families have been communicating with. had to suffer,” the Meta CEO Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif) added. continued on pg. 2
US shuts down China-backed botnet targeting home office routers “In wiping out the KV Botnet Washington, Feb 1 (IANS)
The vast majority of routers that comprised the KV Botnet The US government has were Cisco and NetGear shut down a Chinese govrouters that were vulnerable ernment-backed botnet that hijacked “hundreds” of small because they had reached office and home office routers “end of life” status, no longer supported through security in the US. patches or other software The hackers, known to the pri- updates. vate sector as ‘Volt Typhoon’, The court-authorised operaused privately-owned small tion deleted the KV Botnet office/home office (SOHO) routers infected with the “KV malware from the routers and took additional steps to sever Botnet” malware to conceal their connection to the botnet, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) origin of further such as blocking communications with other devices used hacking activities directed against US and other foreign to control the botnet, the US Justice Department said in a victims. statement.
“The Justice Department has disrupted a PRC-backed hacking group that attempted to target America’s critical infrastructure utilising a botnet,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. www.mccq.org.au
Website: mccq.org.au Email: secretary@mccq.org.au
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
from hundreds of routers nationwide, the Department of Justice is using all its tools to disrupt national security threats – in real time,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. The operation did not impact the legitimate functions of, or collect content information from, hacked routers. Additionally, the court-authorised steps to disconnect the routers from the KV Botnet and prevent reinfection are temporary in nature. “A router’s owner can reverse these mitigation steps by restarting the router. However, a restart that is not accompanied by mitigation steps similar to those the court order authorised will make the router vulnerable to reinfection,” said the Justice Department.
Premier League: Spurs record epic turnaround 3-2 win over Brentford
London, Feb 1 (IANS)
Tottenham Hotspur completed Brentford pulled one back an epic second-half turnthrough Ivan Toney in the around to beat Brentford 3-2 67th minute but Spurs held and leapfrog Aston Villa into firm to pick up maximum fourth place in the Premier points and move into the top League table. four of the Premier League. Trailing 1-0 at the break to Neal Maupay’s goal, a blistering start to the second half saw Spurs hit three quickfire goals to overturn a half-time deficit and pave the way for an important victory.
Spurs move on to 43 points, level with Aston Villa but above them on goals scored. Brentford are 15th, with 22 points, four above the relegation zone.
Brentford went ahead at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after 12 minutes through Neal Maupay and Spurs trailed at the break after a frustrating first half, but three goals in nine minutes early in the second period – from Destiny Udogie, Brennan Johnson and Richarlison - changed the complexion of the game.
UNRWA totally ‘infiltrated’ by Hamas: Israel Tel Aviv, Feb 1 (IANS)
Israel has said that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in Near East (UNRWA) is “totally infiltrated” by Hamas and wants it to be replaced by another aid agency.
Israeli allegations that 12 of its employees were involved in the October 7 Hamas onslaught against Israel.
According to a statement from Israel Government Press Office, Netanyahu told the UN ambassadors that the UNRWA has been in the service of Hamas, in its schools and Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had con- many other things. veyed this to the Ambassadors Israel Prime Minister said: of the UN during a meeting “I say this with great regret with them on Wednesday at Jerusalem, a statement issued because we hoped that there would be an objective and by Israel Prime Minister’s constructive body to offer aid. Office said. We need such a body today in Israel had conveyed to the UN Gaza, but UNRWA is not that and funding countries that 12 body.” UNRWA staff members had A dossier prepared by Israel directly participated in the October 7 attack when Hamas revealed that during October 7 terrorists swarmed into Israel massacre, an UNRWA teacher was accused of being armed killing 1,200 people and with an anti-tank missile, holding 253 hostage. while another teacher had been accused of filming a Israel has in its report prehostage being taken captive sented before the UN stated on October 7. that of the 12 UNRWA staff continued on pg. 2 who had directly participated in the attack, seven were UNRWA teachers, two were educational consultants and others were administrative staff of the Agency. The UNRWA has also said that it was extremely important to conduct an independent investigation into
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Publisher Dr. Ram Mohan Editor Dr. Ram Mohan Associate Editor Amrita Deshpande Contributors Rabindra Mukherjee Deepika Banerjee Website Design & Updates A’s Design Studio Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info) Designing A’s Design Studio Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info) Editorial secretary@mccq.org.au Advertising secretary@mccq.org.au Multicultural Community Connect Queensland Unit 49, 391, WICKHAM TERRACE, Ground Floor, Spring Hill, Brisbane, QLD – 4000
H-1B visa process begins March 6 amid overhaul of lottery system ... continued from page 1
“During this period, prospective petitioners and their representatives, if applicable, must use a USCIS online account to register each beneficiary electronically for the selection process and pay the associated registration fee for each beneficiary,” it added. The agency’s final rule contains provisions that will create a beneficiary-centric selection process for registrations by employers, codify start date flexibility for certain petitions subject to the congressionally mandated H-1B cap, and add more integrity measures related to the registration process. “We’re always looking for
ways to bolster integrity and curtail the potential for fraud while improving and streamlining our application processes,” said USCIS Director Ur M Jaddou.
fraud and ensure each beneficiary would have the same chance of being selected, regardless of the number of registrations submitted on their behalf by an employer.
“The improvements in these areas should make H-1B selections more equitable for petitioners and beneficiaries and will allow for the H-1B process to be fully electronic from registration, if applicable, until final decision and transmission of approved petitions to the Department of State.”
Starting with the fiscal year 2025 initial registration period, USCIS will require registrants to provide valid passport information or valid travel document information for each beneficiary.
Under the beneficiary-centric process, registrations will be selected by unique beneficiary rather than by registration. This new process is designed to reduce the potential for
The passport or travel document provided must be the one the beneficiary, if or when abroad, intends to use to enter the US if issued an H-1B visa. Each beneficiary must only be registered under one passport or travel document, the USCIS said.
Meta CEO Zuckerberg apologizes to families at social media hearing in US ... continued from page 1
had asked the CEOs of Snap, Meta, TikTok, X and Discord to disclose how many minors were using their platforms. Zuckerberg said he was unable to provide specific numbers, but said that the company runs “extensive ad campaigns” to raise awareness of its parental supervision tools. X CEO Linda Yaccarino shared that less than 1 per cent of the platform’s 90 million US users are between the ages of 13 and 17.
a 14-month-old UNRWA totally ‘infiltrated’ by Hamas: Israel “Being company we have reprior-
... continued from page 1
Another of the staff, who, according to the dossier was an elementary school teacher and had allegedly served as
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a Hamas commander and participated in the massacre in Kibbutz Be’eri, while a man employed by UNRWA as a
social worker was allegedly involved in kidnapping of the body of a soldier.
itised child protection and
safety measures,” Yaccarino said at the hearing. “We have just begun to talk about and discuss how we can enhance those with parental controls.” TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew said he was unable to share specifics, but that TikTok was “one of the first platforms” to give parents supervision controls. Discord CEO Jason Citron said that Discord raises awareness of its parental controls through promotional videos and in-app prompts. The US is mulling the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) that would require social platforms to take further steps to protect children online.
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FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
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COMMUNITY NEWS ART FROM INDIA
JAN FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
Ishara International Puppet Theatre Festival to be held in Feb in Delhi and Chandigarh New Delhi, Jan 30 (IANSlife)
The Ishara International Puppet Theatre Festival’s 20th edition is scheduled to run from February 16 to 25 at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi and Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh. Produced by Teamwork Arts, it is supported by the Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust.
present ‘Wings And Roots’ by Fanny Tissot-Giordanna/ Compagnie Arketal from National Theatre, Nice. The musical menagerie Air Giants by Pia Fraus will be directed by Beto Andretta from Brazil.
From the US, ‘The Kurt Hunter Marionettes’ will be presenting a performance entiIn addition to Indian artists, tled ‘Penguin In My Pocket’, this edition will feature directed by Laura Wilhelm. performers from Brazil, Spain, Korea, Turkey, the US, Russia’s most famous puppet Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Russia. character will be brought back to life with a celebration Both verbal and non-verbal of 400 years of tradition. performances will be part of Petrushka, performed by the festival. Novosibirsk Regional Puppet Theatre and directed by At the festival, France will
Svyatoslav Pankov. ‘Hiss & Arf’ is a non-verbal performance from Taiwan, presented by ‘Puppet On The Workbench’ and directed by Mong-Han Liang/Chia-Hao Chen. Sevincer Puppet Theatre from Turkey will showcase ‘Mucit’ (Inventor), directed by Yalcin Gonenc. From Sri Lanka, the ‘Traditional String Puppet Show’, performed by Mango Friends Puppet Society, and directed by Indika Gamini will be presented. The Culture Art Bakery
FFWANG from Korea will present ‘Hong Dongji & Isimi’, directed by Hwang Seokyong.
will prove to be a milestone as countries from across the globe will be part of the edition.
Trapusteros Teatro from Brazil will present Mamulengo De La Mancha, directed by Izabela Brochado.
Sanjoy K. Roy, Managing Director, of Teamwork Arts and Producer of the festival, said, “Ishara has changed the way people view the art and theatre of puppetry and puppet-making. Countless artistes and artisans have benefitted from the festival over the years, which has brought together some of the most outstanding productions from across the world.”
The Ishara Puppet Theatre Group will present ‘Be Yourself’, directed by Dadi D. Pudumjee -- an adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s ‘The Ugly Duckling’. Dadi D. Pudumjee, Festival Director and founder of ‘The Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust’, said that the 20th edition
IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in
6 reasons to attend 15th India Art Fair New Delhi, Jan 31 (IANSlife)
The 15th edition of the India Art Fair, featuring 100 exhibitors including 71 galleries, 7 design studios, 26 new exhibitors, and 18 international galleries, is set to take place at the NSIC Exhibition Grounds in New Delhi from February 1 to 4, 2024. With an expanded lineup and thrilling exhibits, here is an essential guide to all the exciting activities planned for the India Art Fair 2024. Decades Ahead in Design:
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The ANATOM collection by Rado, celebrating its 40th-anniversary edition, stands as a testament to the brand’s forward-thinking approach. With its timeless and unique design, the collection remains easily recognizable as Rado’s signature, showcasing the brand’s ability to stay ahead of the competition in design innovation. Innovative Facade: Artist duo Thukral & Tagra’s creation for the India Art Fair will be transformed into chic collectible bags by Dalit-run Chamar Studio after the event.
and Galleria Continua, the ‘Future is Born of Art’ 2024 fair marks its largest Commission: Sponsored by gathering yet, showcasing BMW India, this year’s com- modern and contemporary art mission winner, Sashikanth from South Asia to the world. Thavudoz, will craft a sensory installation exploring the Spotlight on Emerging Artists: theme of Forwardism, blend- The fair continues to nurture ing natural and industrial young talent through its materials for a thought-proArtists in Residence provoking experience. grams, featuring rising stars like Thamshangpha Maku, Record-Breaking Mayuri Chari, and Siddharth Participation: With over 100 Gohil, alongside established galleries participating, innames such as Jatinder Singh cluding esteemed names like Durhailay and Guler Ates, Carpenters Workshop Gallery offering a diverse array of
artistic expressions. Diverse Artistic Offerings: From tapestry weaving by Akshata Mokashi to humorous sculpture by Jonathan Trayte, and vibrant photographs capturing everyday scenes by Bhargava Barla, the fair presents a rich tapestry of artistic endeavors, highlighting the depth and breadth of contemporary art in the region-IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in
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COMMUNITY NEWS
QPASST Programs support affected Australian Communities Brisbane, December 21 (MCCQ Newsdesk, QPASTT Press Release)
As part of its response to the impact of humanitarian crises and conflicts occurring across the globe, including in Israel/Gaza, Afghanistan and Ukraine, the Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT) has launched Witness to War, a national multilingual telephone hotline to support affected Australian communities. Operating from MondayFriday between 10am-4pm AEDT (core times nationally), Witness to War is open to all people affected by overseas conflict and can be accessed
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by calling 1800 845 198. Local operating times are as follows for each state and territory: Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory: 10am to 7pm South Australia: 9:30am to 6:30pm Queensland: 9am to 6pm Northern Territory: 8:30am to 5:30pm Western Australia: 7am to 4pm For more information about Witness to War including in-language flyers in Hebrew, Arabic, Dari, and Ukrainian, visit https://www.fasstt.org.au
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Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 Soars to New Heights at Woodcrest Oval Ground Springfield, January 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Media Release GSIA
The Greater Springfield Indian Association (GSIA) hosted the second edition of the Greater Springfield Kite Festival at Woodcrest Oval Ground, transforming the skies into a vibrant display of colors and celebration. Held on the auspicious occasion of Australia Day and Indian Republic Day, the event brought together the local community for a day filled with joy, cultural diversity, and shared festivities with live DJ A Kaleidoscope of Colors and Cultures
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The festival kicked off at 12 PM and continued until 6 PM, with the Woodcrest Oval Ground becoming a hub of activity. Attendees were treated to the mesmerizing sight of kites of various shapes and sizes dancing in the sky, symbolizing unity and joy. Adding to the cultural experience, the festival featured a live DJ, traditional Indian food stalls offering tantalizing flavors, and vibrant stalls showcasing exquisite jewelry. Local spiritual stores contributed to the mystical atmosphere, providing attendees with opportunities for spiritual and recreational
activities. Community Spirit and Participation Local businesses actively participated in the festival, creating a bustling marketplace within the event grounds. Representatives and businesses from Greater Springfield showcased their products and services, fostering an environment of community bonding and camaraderie. Honorable Shane Neumann, Member of Parliament, expressed appreciation for the efforts of GSIA and President Mukesh Dubey in
organizing the event. Other esteemed guests, including Honorable Milton Dick, Honorable Charis Mullen, Mayor Theresa Harding, and Councillor Paul Tully, applauded the festival’s success and pledged continued support for future community events. A Resounding Success The Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 was not just an event but an immersive experience that celebrated diversity, unity, and the rich tapestry of cultures within the community. As kites soared high, so did the spirits of the attendees,
making it a memorable day for all. GSIA President Mukesh Dubey expressed gratitude for the community’s enthusiastic participation and the support received from local leaders. With the success of this event, GSIA looks forward to organizing more vibrant and community-centric gatherings in the future. The Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 stands as a testament to the power of community bonding and shared celebrations, making it a hallmark event in the Greater Springfield calendar.
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ECCQ’s Women’s Ethnic Network invites all women to the International Women’s Day Brisbane, Jan 31 (MCCQ Newsdesk) ECCQ Press Release
not economically empowered are more likely to be vulnerable to coercive control, and financial abuse.
The 2024 International Women’s Day breakfast, hosted by the Ethnic Communities Join hundreds of multicultural women for an illuminating Council of Queensland breakfast set to recognise (ECCQ)’s Women’s Ethnic the valuable contribution Network (WEN) will be held again in the picturesque of women to Queensland, uplift women in our Victoria Park on Friday 8th community, and celebrate March from 7:00am, for a emerging leaders! We will be 7:20am start. This year, the announcing the winners of theme is: the ECCQ Advancing Women Scholarships: the Cleo Xynias Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress. Multicultural Woman of the Year scholarship, and the Emerging Professional This focus on economic scholarship. empowerment reinforces what we know to be a key Stay tuned for our speaker factor impacting women, particularly as those who are announcements coming soon,
and be prepared to join in our raffle and win some incredible prizes! Come along, be counted and connect with our wonderful WEN women! Please RSVP by Friday the 1st of March, 2024. Spaces are limited, so get in now! If you’d like to be a sponsor for this event, please contact advocacy@eccq.com.au. If you have any questions, please call Anna on: 0413 512 961. The Ethnic Women’s Network (WEN) is a part of the ECCQ organisation which
comprises of women who are entrepreneurs, professionals, academics, and those who are interested in getting together to have chats about professional work, mental health, or just socialisation. This advocacy group WEN organises regular meetings with their members and often calls mentors and experts in various fields to discuss and address priorities and challenges relevant to improving the equity and advancement of culturally diverse women. Last year the WEN group organised the International Women’s day breakfast along with ECCQ staff. This year volunteers and
members of WEN along with ECCQ staff are organising the event. This is a moment where the group recognises the migrant women who have come a long way to reach Brisbane to make it their home. The focus for the WEN group for this year is to create awareness and programs, workshops, forums, and training around violence against women paving a path to make the larger community aware of the impacts of violence against women. If you are interested in this group please contact Anna Rolandsen of ECCQ at advocacy@eccq.com.au. to receive the information for joining the group.
Volunteers needed for Multiculture Community Connect Queensland MCCQ Newspaper Content Writers: We need 3 content writers to write articles on
various activities held in community organisations from different migrant community background.
Photographer: We need one photographer to take photos of
activities at different community events.
Office Assistant: We need one Office Assistant to assist the Board
of Directors in various office admin tasks.
If you are interested please send an email to secretary@mccq.org.au
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COMMUNITY NEWS
WAMCI bold step in the Arts! Brisbane, December 15 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
WAMCI World Arts and Mul- one lost in a dream world; ticulture Inc. is an arts organ- a world removed from the isation established in 2003. It present reality of being in the was founded by Melody Chen hospital. Several artists have with a vision “to stimulate the showcased their artwork here including that of Aunty Peggy emulation by mutual observation & Research as well as who put her dot art stories on canvas to transform the walls to introduce the celebrated, feature abundance culture and of this hospital. art activities deriving from the Australia region and other Art is often soothing and it makes the mind, the brain global areas.” relax and release from the stressed moments. An art exSince 2003, the World Arts and Multiculture Inc. has been hibition in the hospital foyer organising various culturally thus makes community feel diverse art programs includ- safe and pleasant. It gives the ing that of operating the Mul- much needed respite to those who are on a longterm illnessticultural Gallery in Sunny Bank Plaza. This gallery gave es. It is also a respite for the an opportunity to many artists caregivers of those patients who have a terminal illness. of East Asian background as well as from India and Art also unites everyone. It Germany to showcase their brings cultures together under culture, heritage and art. one roof giving each work of art has the ability to tell They are also involved in creating art spaces in the city stories and voice concerns. Such exhibitions curated in to showcase brisbane based the community spaces helps cultural artists living in the reach the right people. city. One of the prominant spaces that World Arts and Multiculture Inc. was able to The World Arts and Multiculsecure was that of the Sunny- ture Inc. is organising the Taiwan Culture Festival at Qld bank Private Hospital. Taiwan Center and Lantern Painting Competition Awards The foyer of this hospital ceremony at the Sunnybank is now embellished with Plaza. Check out the Flyers. colorful artwork that makes
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Dinner with the Champions of the Big Bash League 2024 Brisbane Brisbane, Jan 31 (MCCQ Newsdesk) by Amrita Deshpande
It is not often that one gets called to work and it turns out to be a pleasant treat. Yes it was an experience of life time to meet the winners of the Big Bash League 2024. No doubt they were our local boys but they were the champions. And what a well deserved win. The three champions of the BBL Brisbane Heat team Michael Neser, Xavier Bartlett and Spencer Jhonson brought the cup home after 11 years. Brisbane Heat lost by
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a close call last year however this year they beat the Sydney Sixers and won by 54 runs. Michael Neser’s catch at the boundary was remarkable. He made a huge difference by taking 5 outstanding catches outfield and two run outs. This secures his position for BBL14. Spencer Johnson’s outstanding performance gave him the title and a contract with the IPL. Spencer has proven to be a promising player rising through the club cricket just
12 months back. He says “I owe a lot to Brisbane Heat and would like to stay in Brisbane playing for the Brisbane Heat.” Xavier Bartlett was another player making a huge success for Brisbane Heat this season. He gave his career-best Big Bash League campaign taking 20 wickets which proved to be crucial to Brisbane Heat’s success this year. In the end he secured the honour of the tournament’s top wicket-taker while his teammate Spencer Johnson being second taking
19 wickets. The Brisbane Heat celebrated their success at the Jubilee Hotel in Brisbane where MCCQ and India News leaders Ram Mohan, Ashutosh Misra and Amrita Deshpande were invited to interview the players and have dinner with them. The entire Brisbane HEAT team was felicitated by the Brisbane City Council giving them certificates at the Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day 2024.
The Big Bash League (BBL) is a popular Twenty20 cricket tournament held in Australia. It features eight participating teams that compete in a double round-robin format, followed by playoffs to determine the finalists. The tournament was held from 07 December 2023 to 24 January 2024, with a total of 44 T20 matches. The official website of the Big Bash League can be found at https://www.brisbaneheat.com.au/
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COMMUNITY NEWS
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
More Australians are actively re-evaluating what our national day stands for and how we can create a better country – one that all Australians, including First Nations people, are proud to celebrate Brisbane, Jan 25 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Press Release Reconciliation Australia
The National Reconciliation Week 2024 theme, Now More Than Ever is a reminder to us all that, no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will – and must – continue. Since 1788 Australian history is one of unending struggle by First Nations peoples for recognition of rights. The fulfillment of this long struggle for First Nations rights and a common
understanding of our shared history is essential in the creation of a National Day for all Australians. Justice, and national pride is dependent on truth. Now more than ever, truth-telling is critical to Australia being able to celebrate this nation together. National unity cannot be built on selective versions of history that exclude or silence the voices and experiences of First Nations peoples. Truth-telling, as called for in the Uluru Statement from the
Heart, ensures that Australians can understand an Australian history that reflects all our perspectives and experiences of it. Every year we see what a more united and reconciled nation might look like as growing numbers of Australians attend Survival Day marches, concerts, and festivals, on 26 January. This unity built on an acceptance of a shared history aligns with the most recent Australian Reconciliation Barometer (ARB), which shows a growing awareness of the impact colonisation has had
on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
86% of the general community and 89% of First Nations people support Australians learning more about past historical issues which have affected First Nations peoples. More Australians now understand the need to broaden understanding of history from different perspectives and consider how we mark these occasions; 82% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and 70% people in the general community support the creation of shared
Australian icons that celebrate national unity and identity, including a National Day of Significance that celebrates First Nations histories and cultures.’ This increasing reassessment of 26 January and our national day of celebration is a cause for optimism, a sign of growing maturity in Australia’s attitudes to justice and recognition of First Nations peoples.
We urge Australians to have respectful conversations about finding a way through the current debate and creating a better and more just country; one that we can all celebrate.
To know more about reconciliation Australia please visit their website https://www. reconciliation.org.au/
Reconciliation Australia acknowledges Senator Patrick Dodson’s decades of hard work and intellectual rigour committed to the reconciliation movement and the struggle for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights. Brisbane, Jan 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Press Release Reconciliation Australia
A Yawuru man from Broome, Patrick Dodson’s informal title – the Father of Reconciliation – is well deserved after his successful leadership of the movement over many decades. In this role he demonstrated great passion and determination. In many ways Senator Dodson’s life mirrors the advances the First Nations rights movement has championed over the decades. His early days were marked
by poverty, disempowerment, and racism; like so many other Aboriginal kids he spent time hiding from police and welfare officials trying to steal him away from his family. From these hard times he ascended to great heights in Australian public life, but always in roles which advanced the rights and interests of his people. He first came into the national spotlight as a Commissioner with the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody which recommended the urgent need for a formal
process of reconciliation between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. He went on to become the inaugural Chairperson of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation (CAR), the predecessor to Reconciliation Australia, which was established in response to that recommendation. His wisdom and patience in that role is fondly remembered by all who worked with him. More recently, as a Senator for Western Australia, he was appointed the Special
Envoy for Reconciliation and Implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart in the Albanese Government.
Patrick Dodson has been a giant in Australia public life for decades, truly deserving of the title, Father of Reconciliation. His contribution to reconciliation and the struggle for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights is legendary.
his outstanding contribution. We suspect Australia will continue to benefit from his counsel as he heads into retirement. To know more about reconciliation Australia please visit their website https://www. reconciliation.org.au/
Reconciliation Australia’s Board and staff wish Senator Dodson all the very best of luck as he leaves the Parliament and thank him for
Protests and Rallies organised in Brisbane by the Aboriginal Community regarding the Invasion Day and change of Date for the National Day of Australia
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Australia Day Celebrations in Brisbane by the Indian community organisations
Brisbane, Jan 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
Australia Day celebrations coincide with the Indian Republic Day celebrations and the Indian community proudly celebrates both. While on one hand community leaders celebrate it by attending the Citizenship ceremo nies, on the other by attending the Indian organisations both Australia Day celebrations as well as the Indian Republic Day celebrations. This year marks the 75th year of Indian Republic Day. It also marks the 25years of bilateral relations with France. Hence, President Macron was invited to the Republic Day celebrations in India which became a highlight of the ceremony. The theme of the Indian Republic Day this year was innovation and Women Empowerment- Nari Shakti. Most of the military squads marching at the parade were lead by women or comprised of entirely by women cadets. Including the motorcyclists.
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Every year each state in India puts together a tableaux for the parade that showcases the culture, arts, diversity, economy, innovation, of the state. These tableaux are later awarded for their artistry. This year’s winning tableaux was First: Odisha’s tableau, themed “Woman Empowerment in Viksit Bharat,” which showcased the state’s commitment to women’s progress while the peoples choice best tableaux was the Gujarat’s “Dhordo: A Global Icon of Gujarat’s Border Tourism” tableau. The multicultural diaspora in Brisbane definitely should pay heed to this artistry and maybe organisze a multicultural tableaux parade on Australia Day for the migrants in the country to showcase their community and culture.. In Brisbane, the Indian diaspora organizations often celebrate both days together. Many community organisations in Brisbane receive a Australia Day grant
to organise functions and citizenship ceremonies to respect, reflect and celebrate the day. For MCCQ representatives, the day started off with Australia Day Celebrations at the Consulate of India in Brisbane, followed by the celebration at the Tamil Association of Queensland celebrating the day with sports activities such as badminton tournaments and carom tournament: a traditional game payed in India, and finally the FICQ Australia Day celebration in the evening.
guests.
At FICQ the Indian Diaspora was previleged for the address of the Hon. Speaker of the house Mr. Milton Dick MP, the Hon. Treasurer Dr. Jim Chalmers MP, the newly appointed Multicultural Minister Ms. Charis Mullen MP, Minister Shayne Neuman MP, Minister Peter Russo, Minister John Lambroek, Senator Paul Scarr, Lord Mayor Adrian Shrinner, Cr. Angela Owen, Cr. John Raven, and local state MP James Martin.
Delegates and distinguished guests from all levels of government were present.
Mr. Anoop Nanuru, President of FICQ, made it a point to recognise all leaders of the member associations associated with FICQ. He also specially mentioned the significant people contributing to the Indian community through their social work and proffession.
Australia day in Brisbane is also celebrated with cultural programs and speeches delivered by distinguished
Ms. Jyoti Goraya was honored by the Lord Mayor for her community work. She has been working with FICQ for
Leaders of various Indian and international organizations were honored and given a special mention at the function.
a long time as the cultural coordinator. This year women from Indian backgrounds have put up their hand to contest the local and state elections serving the country representing their respective constituency. Ms. Pinky Singh is running for the LNP Candidate for the Mansfield. Ms. Neetu Suhag Malick is running for the local electotrate of Division 2 Ipswich city council. Ms. Ashwina Gotame Candidate for Mc Gregor Ward. The Indian diaspora extends all the very best to all the women candidates. Following images are some Glimpses of the Australia Day and the Indian Republic Day celebrations 2024 at the Consulate of India, Tamil Association of Queensland and Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland.
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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA
COMMUNITY NEWS
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
Osaka Overseas Chinese School conducts Chinese Language Proficiency Test CAT for the first time Brisbane,Jan 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk) 2024-01-31 Reported by Overseas Chinese Affairs News volunteer Feng Yanguo
Proficiency Test” and the “Chinese Proficiency Test”.
Chen Baixi, CEO of the Chinese Language Testing Osaka Chunghwa School Association, said that in order cooperated with the Japan to allow Chinese learners in International Exchange Japan to understand the relaAssociation for the first tionship between the “Chinese time in late January and Language Proficiency Test” successfully administered the and the “Chinese Language Computerized Adaptation Test”, the Chinese Language Test (CAT) of the Test of Testing Association was Chinese Language Proficiency specially invited to assist in (TOCFL). Feng Yanguo, CEO publicity and invite people of the Japan International who have passed the “Chinese Exchange Association, said Language Test” “Candidates that the main purpose of this can take the official test test is to support the National of “Chinese Language Chinese Test Promotion Proficiency Test” for free. Committee (Chinese Testing This time, test centers were Association) in conducting set up in Tokyo and Osaka research projects on the respectively. Tokyo was at correspondence between Shinjuku Royal Academy, the “Chinese Language with 97 students registered,
www.mccq.org.au
and 80 students showed up for the test; Osaka was at Osaka Chunghwa School, with 58 students signing up, and 49 students showed up. In other words, this correspondence study attracted a total of 155 applicants, and 129 people actually took the exam, with an attendance rate of 83%. On the day of the test, Jiang Ye, the principal of Osaka Chunghwa School, was specially present to pay attention to the test process. He said that the school was originally a Chinese language proficiency test test center. In the past, paper and pencil tests were used. This test was the first time to come into contact with the computerized aptitude test, so as to accumulate experience. Having
gained valuable experience in examination administration and supervision, we will be more confident in the future transition to computer-based examinations; as the school has received strong support from the Taiwanese government and overseas Chinese leaders in recent years, especially since students have access to many digital learning resources, the school will Actively plan and hold more similar activities to provide students with more diverse learning options, expand students’ learning channels, and leverage the characteristics of the school’s digital learning “GIGA School”. Feng Yanguo pointed out that in recent years, the demand
for learning Taiwanese Chinese in Japan has been increasing, and the number of Japanese students studying in Taiwan has been increasing. In order to meet the needs of Japanese Chinese learners for the Chinese language proficiency test, since June last year, the National Chinese Language Test has been promoted Since the Working Committee signed an overseas agency contract, it has achieved remarkable results in promoting computerized aptitude testing in Japan; and for this corresponding research, we are very grateful for the support and assistance of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Osaka Chunghwa School, and we look forward to further cooperation in the future.
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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA
COMMUNITY NEWS
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
Changing the Conversation: Multicultural Australia’s series of Programs for thought leaders
Brisbane, Jan 31 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
Multiculture Australia in Brisbane has been working hard to get the multicultural community and thought leaders together through their programs. One of such program is the changing the conversation series of speakers on various challenging topics. The program is aimed to bringing together thought leaders from academia, government, business, and the community together to engage in robust discussions about multiculturalism in the Australian context. The Changing the Conversation series is being presented by Multicultural Australia in partnership with QPAC exploring issues of who and where we are as a nation and what we need to do to create a society that better
www.mccq.org.au
reflects and cares for all its people.
Changing the Game – Sport, Women, and Culture is the first of four events in this series to be held in 2024. Benjamin Law will be the facilitator for this series. A panel of experts and throught leaders will be soon anoounced on their website. Changing the Conversation: Culture in Conflict – Talking about world news when it hits home, is the second event in the 2024 series of thought-provoking discussions exploring key issues in our increasingly multicultural society. Australia is a globally connected nation and a country of migrants. Global conflicts reverberate locally in many ways, affecting our economy
and national security, and sometimes creating divisions within local communities, especially for groups with ties to conflicting regions, faiths or ideologies. Hear diverse perspectives from the panel about how we can have culturally sensitive conversations that promote mutual respect, empathy and how we can build bridges to peace rather than barriers between cultures and within community. Changing the Conversation: Who Are We?: Identity in a Multicultural Australia, is the third in the 2024 series of thought-provoking discussions exploring key issues : What does it mean to be Australian today? Engage in a conversation with the panel about our national identity as we explore the reality of our present-day cultural diversity and unravel
ideas of belonging, heritage and collective identity. How do we come to terms with an ever-changing idea of what it means to be ‘Australian’ that is moving away from the traditionally accepted stereotypes of a Euro-centric, monolingual population to a much more diverse face of Australia? Explore the dimensions of historical roots, multicultural influences and contemporary values that are shaping our understanding of Australia’s national identity. Changing the Conversation: Words That Bind – Creating unity through our many languages, is the final event in the 2024 series of thought-provoking discussions exploring key issues impacting the multicultural society in Australia. A panel conversation will
explore and discuss about the transformative potential of language diversity as a tool for nation building, economic empowerment, and social inclusion in contemporary Australian society. A multilingual Australia holds many benefits including richer cultural exchange and stronger ties with global partners and enhanced diplomatic and economic relationships. Explore how language has the power to build bridges by connecting communities, fostering understanding, and promoting unity and cohesion while celebrating the richness of our cultural diversity. To book tickets, know the timings and details for the panel for this event series please visit the following URL https://www.multiculturalaustralia.org.au/events/
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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA
COMMUNITY NEWS
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
Gold Coast Community Leaders Reflect on Australian Identity in the Celebration of MCCGC’s 40 Years of Legacy Brisbane, Feb 1 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Press Release from MCCGC website
Australia’s history is tied to migration, shaping our collective identity. This country was built on migration, and the patterns have evolved over time, shaped by historical events and changing societal values. A transformative evolution in Australia’s migration history was abolishing the White Australian Policy and establishing multicultural peak bodies. In this important discussion, Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) proudly presents a series of insightful
videos featuring leaders from the multicultural community commemorating its 40th anniversary.
These videos showcase critical aspects of Australia’s identity, the racism it carries, and the role in supporting the multicultural community on the Gold Coast. According to Emad Nimri, MCCGC Project Consultant from 2005 to 2012, “...with diversity comes complexity, which underscores the need to address intricate issues”. Within Australia’s evolving multicultural policy framework, the emphasis has shifted from assimilation to coexistence. There is a big necessity for an ongoing commitment to impact, provide information, and
educate about the enduring value of diversity, particularly in the cultural and linguistic context. Together, their voices contribute to shaping an inclusive Australia, welcoming and embracing diversity both today and tomorrow. By abolishing the White Australia Policy, a wave of people from around the world came and chose to make a home here on the Gold Coast. What wasn’t established were models of support for migrants to lead on, where organisations like MCCGC play a critical role, being the peak body for multiculturalism on the Gold Coast. MCCGC, born in 1983 to address the unmet needs of migrants and refugees, has been a catalyst for change,
fostering an inclusive community over the past four decades. Since then, MCCGC’s vision has been crystal clear: to foster an inclusive community that cherishes cultural diversity. And the mission is to connect the community, impact lives, ignite hope, and build bridges of understanding.
grand tale of community and connection, it’s just a chapter. A chapter full of learning, unity, growth, and unwavering commitment. Here’s to the journey ahead as we continue to write this story together.”
MCCGC’s CAMS Officer, Candice Sullivan, also featured in the videos, presents an important piece, recognising MCCGC’s journey as a collective story built on honesty, connection, and the pursuit of a compassionate and connected world.
Let’s honor the work laid by those before us, support the movement of the youth and let the voice of diversity fill your heart with hope for our future.
MCCGC’s Chief Executive Officer, Shane Klintworth, says, “40 years might seem like a long time, but in the
Let the reflection on these 40 years be a message for the 40 to come.
If you want to watch the series of videos, please click here https://www.mccgc.org. au/gold-coast-communityleaders-reflect-on-australianidentity-in-the-celebration-ofmccgc-s-40-years-of-legacy/
Empowering Careers Through Our Resume Writing and Interview Preparation Session Brisbane, Jan 31 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Media Release MCCGC website
What a great ‘Resume Writing and Interview Preparation Session’ we had this week! Listening to the participants share their stories about their dream jobs, professional backgrounds, and skills was amazing and inspiring. This session provided them with valuable insights on taking their resumes to another level and exploring strategies for successful interviews and
communication techniques. Here is some beautiful feedback from them. “Thank you very much for the workshop. It was great! I loved the way Camila gave us many examples and told us stories so we’re aware of what to do and what not to do. To be fully dressed in a video call interview, to fill out all parts of Seeks’s account, to use networking, not to say ‘Perfectionist’ in the weaknesses question. Absolutely
amazing and motivational. You guys have valuable knowledge.” “I’m writing to express my interest in being part of the Work Towards program. I attended the Resume/ Cover Letter/Job Interview Workshop (which was very useful, by the way), and it seems to be a pretty good opportunity as well.”
Article taken from https://www.mccgc.org.au/empowering-careers-through-our-resume-writing-and-interview-preparation-session/
To stay tuned for our next workshops, please visit the MCCGC website.
Dip Dip Hooray: $2 Dips makes a splash over summer Brisbane, Jan 31 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Media Release Lord Mayor Office
The Schrinner Council’s massively popular $2 Summer Dips Initiative has saved residents almost $2 million so far during summer. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said a record number of residents had visited their local pool since December 1 to take advantage of one of his Council’s key cost-ofliving measures. “Rising living costs are the number one issue right now and that’s why our Council team has stepped up to do what we can to help Brisbane residents,” Cr Schrinner said. “Our $2 Summer Dips Initiative is a simple and effective way Council is helping reduce residents’ costs and provide affordable fun for people of all ages. www.mccq.org.au
“As a father of four, I know how keeping young kids active and entertained can be challenging and costly, particularly during summer holidays. “The response to our $2 Summer Dips Initiative has been simply incredible and I am so pleased so many people have been able to make the most of it.” The latest figures show pool patronage jumped from 141,780 in December 2022 to 289,077 in December 2023, a 104 per cent increase. During the first three weeks of January, pool patronage from 146,385 in 2023 to 191,100 in 2024, a 31 per cent increase despite a significant number of wet weather days. The $2 Summer Dips Initiative was a key part of Council’s $80 million
cost-of-living package delivered last year.
has been reduced from up to $6.40 to $2.
Other initiatives include:
The cost of taking a family of four has decreased from up to $20.15 to $8.
Maintaining the cheapest rates in south east Queensland, along with on-time payment discounts and generous rebates for pensioners Slashing the annual green waste recycling bin fee from $93 to $45, less than $1 a week. Continuing to provide free off-peak travel for seniors Eliminating and radically reducing permit fees for hundreds of events and festivals to encourage free and affordable fun
A family who goes to their local pool six times throughout summer will save $72.90. Anyone accompanying a person with a disability who requires attendant care support will continue to get free entry. Cr Schrinner urged residents to continue to take advantage of $2 Summer Dips throughout the remainder of summer.
New 24/7 library lockers to make it easier to borrow books and other items for free
“Brisbane has experienced some really wild weather this summer and I am sure more than a few family pool trips were cancelled as a result,” he said.
Under the $2 Summer Dips Initiative, an adult pool entry fee at Council’s 22 pools
“However, our $2 Summer Dips continue until the end of February so there’s plenty
of time for people to take advantage of this initiative.
“Whether you’re teaching the kids to swim, looking for a relaxing day out or an avid lap swimmer – we’re seeing people of all ages diving in.
“I encourage residents to make the most of the program, which runs until the end of summer.
“It’s all about making Brisbane even better.”
For more information or to find your closest Council pool, visit the Brisbane City Council website.
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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA
NEWS FROM FIJI
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
Aquatic centre & national hockey ground re-opens for public Fiji, Jan 12 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Media Release Fiji Gov.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka delivered a powerful reopening address at the Damodar City Aquatic Centre and National Hockey Ground, expressing gratitude and optimism for the enduring partnership between Fiji and the People’s Republic of China. (12.01.24) In his speech, Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged the presence of His Excellency, Ambassador Zhou Jian, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Minister of Youth and Sports, CEO & Chair of Fiji Sports Council, members of Fiji’s business industries, sporting communities, and invited guests.
The Prime Minister began by emphasising the honor he felt as a former athlete reopening these iconic sporting facilities. He stated, “The Damodar City Aquatic Centre and the National Hockey Centre transcend their physical structures; they represent our shared history and steadfast dedication.” Reflecting on the two-decade evolution of these venues, PM Rabuka highlighted their significance beyond sports, symbolising Fiji’s enduring spirit and extraordinary sporting achievements. He added, “In an age characterized by global interconnection, these venues play a pivotal role in enhancing Fiji’s diplomatic and economic relationships.”
Back-to-school support paid to over 200,000 students Fiji, Jan 12 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Media Release Fiji Gov.
The Ministry of Finance has paid $40.2 million to 200,760 students as part of the $200 Back-to-School Support payment. This first round of payment is made to all eligible students enrolled from early childhood education (ECE) to Year-12 in the upcoming 2024 school year. Parents and guardians of these ECE to Year-12 students can now access the $200 per child payment through their MPAiSA or MyCASH accounts and those in the maritime areas can obtain the funds from their nearest Post Fiji agency by showing their child’s student ID as proof of identity. The second round of payment will include around 8,200 applications which are currently on hold for students yet to be enrolled in Year-13 as they await their Year-12 exam results. This payment would be released once the exam results are out and students get enrolled in Year-13. The $200 Back-to-School Support is an initiative of the Coalition Government to assist parents and guardians purchase proper school uniforms, school bags, shoes, lunch boxes, stationery and other necessities for their children before school starts on 29 January 2024. Similar support was also provided to over 223,000 students in the 2023 school year and parents and other stakeholders in the education
www.mccq.org.au
The Prime Minister also underscored the economic impact of these venues, serving as beacons of global sporting excellence, attracting international events and championships, and positioning Fiji as a prominent global sporting destination. He noted, “These endeavors significantly contribute to our economic growth, invigorating our tourism, hospitality, and employment sectors.” The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of these venues in youth development, providing a platform for budding athletes to nurture their dreams and instill virtues of discipline, leadership, and collaboration. He said, “These venues serve as crucibles for the leaders of our future.”
Furthermore, PM Rabuka highlighted the role of these facilities in cultural exchange and people-to-people connections, fostering mutual respect, appreciating each other’s cultures, and projecting a positive image of Fiji and China on the international stage. In terms of sustainability, the Prime Minister emphasised the redevelopment of these venues as part of Fiji’s commitment to a greener, more environmentally responsible future. He mentioned, “They are designed and operated in alignment with modern sustainability standards, underscoring our dedication to responsible growth and environmental stewardship.” Looking ahead, PM Rabuka
expressed profound optimism about the future of the partnership with the People’s Republic of China, envisioning deeper collaborations in sports education and technology. He concluded by expressing gratitude for the steadfast support of China and anticipating the continued growth of the partnership. The reopening ceremony was attended by dignitaries, members of the diplomatic community, and representatives from various sectors, marking a significant moment in Fiji-China relations and the development of sports infrastructure in the region. Article taken from https://www. fiji.gov.fj/Media-Centre/News/ AQUATIC-CENTRE-NATIONALHOCKEY-GROUND-RE-OPENSFOR
sector had acknowledged the great impact and success of this noble initiative to assist our students. As we modernise Government service delivery, digital payments have become a key feature of our payment system with almost 98 percent of the Back-to-School Support payment made through MPAiSA or MyCASH. Payment through these digital wallets is efficient, transparent and secure and funds can be either withdrawn or used directly at authorized retail outlets with QR codes. However, to ensure the safety of your funds, please do not disclose your PIN or onetime-password of your mobile wallets to anyone and do not send money to any unknown person who may try to lure and trick you into stealing your money. The Ministry of Finance would like to thank the Ministry of Education, all the heads of schools, teachers, school admin officers, students, parents and guardians for their hard work, due diligence and assistance with the entire application process. I wish success to all our students gearing up for the 2024 school year. -Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Hon. Professor Biman Prasad Article taken from https://www.fiji. gov.fj/Media-Centre/News/BACKTO-SCHOOL-SUPPORT-PAID-TOOVER-200,000-STUDEN
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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA
Bagong Pilipinas: Testament to PBBM’s commitment for better PH Manila, Jan 28 (PNA) By Zaldy De Layola
MANILA – The Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) program is a strong testament to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to embark on a transformative journey toward a better Philippines where government programs are accessible to every Filipino. Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez made the statement ahead of the kickoff rally of the program at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, where the President will address the public Sunday night. “This Bagong Pilipinas campaign is a call to unity, a rallying cry for every Filipino to come together, transcending differences and
working hand in hand for a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow,” he said.
The Bagong Pilipinas kickoff rally coincides with the second day of the 10th installment of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) in Zambales, where over PHP500 million worth of government aid and programs were granted to residents. “Like the BPSF that we implemented to respond to the call of President Marcos Jr. to bring the government closer to the people, the Bagong Pilipinas shares the same principle: that programs and projects of the government should be made accessible to the people,” he said. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), a Serbisyo Fair
PHILLIPINES
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
PBBM: Preserve, protect and promote Filipino identity
will provide payouts for pre-identified beneficiaries of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) will also provide eCard enrollment and other services, as well as the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), which will provide registration and enrollment services. Other services available include those from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Pag-IBIG Fund, Social Security System, Philippine National Police, Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) and other agencies. (PNA)
UNITED. Thousands attend the kickoff rally of the Bagong Pilipinas program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday (Jan 28, 2004) at the Quirino Grandstand. The program is a strong testament to Marcos’ commitment to embark on a journey toward a better Philippines. (Screengrab from Presidential Communications Office Facebook page)
DINAGYANG FESTIVAL. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. says the Dinagyang Festival, which culminates Sunday (Jan. 28, 2024), showcases the vibrancy of Iloilo. He reminded devotees to preserve, protect, and promote Filipino identity in these changing times. (PNA photo by Perla G. Lena) Manila, Jan 28 (PNA) By Anna Leah Gonzales MANILA – President Ferdinand
R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday reminded devotees of Señor Sto. Niño celebrating the Dinagyang festival in Iloilo to lead in preserving, protecting, and promoting Filipino identity. “Let the Dinagyang Festival serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility to preserve, protect, and promote our identity in these changing times,” Marcos said in his message. Marcos said through such collective effort, Filipinos can ensure the continuity of the distinct way of life in the country.
“It is through this collective effort that we ensure the continuity of the distinct way of life that binds us as one nation moving ever forward towards a brighter future,” he said. President Marcos said the Dinagyang festival “showcases the vibrancy of lloilo and the profound sense of unity and pride that defines its proud and resilient people.” “The Dinagyang Festival is a reflection of the rich and colorful mosaic that make up all our indigenous groups, including the brave and enduring Ati people whom we also honor today,” Marcos said. (PNA)
NTF-ELCAC committed to dynamic, fruitful dialogues with int’l group Manila, JAN 25 (PNA) By Priam Nepomuceno
MANILA – The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Thursday said it welcomes dialogues and other exchanges between international and local civil society groups, stressing that this helps in fostering change. “At NTF-ELCAC, we wholeheartedly embrace dynamic conversations and fruitful exchanges among international organizations, civil society groups, and the government. We believe that fostering an environment of open dialogue is crucial for the flourishing of our democracy here in the Philippines,” NTF-ELCAC National Secretariat executive director, Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said in an online press briefing. He added that the “transformative power of vibrant discussions” cannot be overstated as it serves as a catalyst for positive change and ignites government reforms. Torres also said the visit of United Nations Special Rapporteur (UNSR) on freedom of opinion and expression Irene Khan to the country is a testament to the government’s commitment to www.mccq.org.au
Ms. Khan highlighted the need for a delicate balance in addressing challenges while considering broader implications for societal and individ“The welcome dinner and ual interests. The Spectrum the subsequent meeting at Between Truth and Falsehood, Camp Crame (Quezon City) as eloquently described by exemplify our government’s Ms. Khan, encapsulates the dedication to openness and complexities of subjective collaboration. These events interpretations and viewpoints have not only provided a within the realm of opinions. platform for showcasing It is encouraging to note that, the sincerity of the PBBM as Asians, we share common administration but have also allowed us to comprehensive- ground, valuing communal well-being over individual ly explain the laws, policies, pursuits,” the NTF-ELCAC and mechanisms in place chief noted. within our organizations,” the NTF-ELCAC chief Torres also emphasized that emphasized. the Philippine government supports initiatives that Torres also said Khan’s visit foster a culture of healthy offers an exceptional opporskepticism, encouraging cogtunity for the international community to gain a nuanced nitive biases, fact-checking understanding of the policies information, and supporting organizations that promote that govern the Philippines. media literacy. He said the task force, togethTorres also expressed er with the Anti-Terrorism Council-Project Management confidence that Khan’s visit will help enhance efforts by Center (ATC-PMC), in a President Ferdinand R. meeting on Wednesday, had Marcos Jr. in solidifying the the privilege of presenting gains from the protection their accomplishments, and defense of freedom of acknowledging challenges, and outlining future strategies. expression and opinion. transparency open dialogue, and the protection of civic space.
He noted that this also highlights the country’s commitment to fostering a climate of openness and transparency. “In our interactions, UNSR
The NTF-ELCAC official also said he is anticipating that Khan will face considerable challenges as she engages with diverse perspectives and narratives from different
government agencies, civil society groups, non-government organizations, especially entities, and other groups aligned with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
“Evaluating the conflicting stories presented by both sides will pose a considerable challenge for her. Nonetheless, the government expresses confidence that the veracity of our narratives will prevail,” he said. On Tuesday, Khan also met with top security officials, including National Security Council Assistant Deputy Director Jonathan Malaya, where she was briefed by the ATC about the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and the mandate
of the NTF-ELCAC.
“She was just absorbing all the presentations. Toward the end of the meeting, there are some points that she would like to make a follow-up on. For instance, on the NTFELCAC concern, she would like to get further information about the red-tagging issue because alam nating lahat na even sa (we all know that even) abroad, the NTFELCAC is being equated unfairly to red-tagging,” Torres said. He explained that the red-tagging issue is not a policy of the Philippine government but rather an invention of the CPP-NPA-NDF that it used as a tool to vilify authorities and state forces. (PNA)
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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA
BURMA
FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
Land of 135 ethnicities, Myanmar has no democratic framework to hold it together said in his New Year’s New York, Jan 7 (IANS)
Myanmar is the land of myriad mutinies, ethnic and anti-authoritarian, with many different partisans and causes, spawning a chaotic brew of endless armed conflicts now heading to a civil war. Behind these conflicts is Myanmar’s failure to develop an infrastructure of democracy that could embrace all its 135 officially recognised ethnic groups and others like the Rohingya to create a sense of nationhood.
by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army on security outposts in 2017. leading to an exodus of a million.
With even the mirage of civilian rule fading, the armed conflicts have intensified, with the National Unity Government (NUG) setting up the People’s Defence Force (PDF) and declaring war on the junta. Some of the ethnic insurgencies have coalesced around the NUG strengthening its forces.
At Myanmar’s independence in 1948, the British left the mishmash of a territory arbitrarily put together by colonial fiat and the nation’s shortlived experiment with democracy effectively ended a decade later throttling hopes for diversity or healthy dissent.
The NUG was set up by the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the lower house of the Myanmar legislature dissolved by the military, and it operates both within the country as the de facto authority in territories under its control and outside, as a government in exile.
Rage against the military, the Tatmadaw, is the common cause coursing through all the estimated 40 armed groups, sometimes making for strategic cooperation among some.
It is recognised by the European Parliament as the country’s legitimate government.
The last half-hearted experiment with democracy effectively ended in 2021, when the Tatmadaw arrested President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, ending their strictly circumscribed rule under a democratic facade. Even before their overthrow, the democratically elected leaders’ government had continued to face armed insurgencies and terrorism and had acquiesced to the military’s brutal reprisals, most notably against the Rohingya after an attack
In the chaos of Myanmar, the insurgencies that raged in the ethnic minority peripheries have now found strength in the hinterland as a fight against the military dictatorship. The Special Advisory Council-Myanmar, reported in September 2022 that “the NUG and resistance organisations have effective control over 52 per cent of the territory of Myanmar”. The independent advisory group said that according to its analysis, the Tatmadaw effectively controls only 17 per cent of Myanmar territory with the rest under contention.
“The trajectory of the conflict favours the resistance, and the junta is losing what control it does have at an increasing rate despite the continued use of mass atrocities by junta force”, it said.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in a report to the General Assembly in August assessing the situation in Myanmar said: “All States and regions across the country continued to be affected by the armed clashes involving the Myanmar armed forces, ethnic armed organisations and resistance forces, including People’s Defence Forces.” “Ethnic states in border areas, as well as central Myanmar regions, including Sagaing and Magway, remain among the most affected by armed conflict, reflecting sustained opposition to the Myanmar military. “Resistance forces, including self-declared People’s Defence Forces in these areas, have increased their collaboration with established ethnic armed organisations, and some of these forces have grown increasingly sophisticated, utilising new technologies and accessing regional arms markets.” The rebel forces appeared to be making headway as the Tatmadaw troops have been surrendering to them, according to several media reports which have reported entire battalions giving up. “We have seen the mass deserting and surrender of the military council soldiers unprecedented in military history,” NUG’s Acting President Duwa Lashi La
address, according to the US-government-funded Radio Free Asia (RFA). A rebel group that associates with the PDF, the Three Brotherhood Alliance, has in particular made headway in recent months against the Tatmadaw forces after launching its Operation 1027 in October 1027. The advances by the alliance made up of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, the Arakan Army and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army has led the Tatmadaw junta’s leader Min Aung Hlaing to reportedly concede in early November that “the three ethnic alliance attacks in northern Shan state near the China-Myanmar border will break the country into pieces”, according to RFA. He admitted that government troops “abandoned some posts” in Shan state, RFA said. Last month, China brokered a peace agreement between the Three Brotherhood and the military regime, which did not involve a retreat by the alliance, but it did not appear to be holding as one of its components the Ta’ang group claimed soon after to have taken territory from the government troops. The current phase of the war on the military junta builds on the history of insurgencies from almost its birth. The successive Myanmar regimes have made several attempts to forge ceasefires with the rebel groups, but almost none have held.
The last one of significance was the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) signed in 2015 by the government and 11 insurgent groups. Although the NCA’s launch was witnessed by representatives of the UN and several countries, it failed to hold and was finally doomed by the 2021 coup. The first conflicts broke out soon after independence in the Karen minority area in the east in a confused clash between communist and anti-communist cadres that later became a Karen rebellion when the government of Burma, as the country was then known, purged the Karens from the armed forces, where they had had an important role. Several Karen splinter groups have carried on their fight with the Myanmar authorities. Over time scores of insurgent groups emerged around the country because of the unmet grievances of various ethnic groups primarily opposing the military’s attempts to impose Burman hegemony. The military’s hegemony itself, though, has turned anti-authoritarian Burmans to join the uprisings against the Tatmadaw. Other notable ethnic armed ethnic groups include the Chin National Army, founded in 1988, the Mon National Liberation Army started in 1971, the Shan State Army created in 1964 and the Lahu Democratic Union. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis)
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Cameroon launches world’s 1st malaria vaccine campaign
New York, Jan 23 (PNA)
NAIROBI, Kenya – In a groundbreaking move to address the persistent threat of malaria, Cameroon on Monday started the world’s first vaccination campaign against the disease. At a press briefing, Mohammed Abdulaziz, head of Disease Control at the Africa Centre for Disease Controls, said the historic step brings hope in the fight against the deadly mosquito-borne disease, which kills hundreds of thousands of people annually, particularly children, in Africa. “The vaccination is a life-saving intervention, a beacon of hope in our collective effort to combat the devastating impact of malaria,” he said. Abdulaziz added that Cameroon, with its high
malaria burden, especially in young children, was seen as a prime candidate for the expanded rollout. The rollout, supported by the World Health Organization, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the Vaccine Alliance Gavi, will see the systematic integration of the vaccine called “RTS, S” into Central African nation’s routine childhood immunization schedule. Aurelia Nguyen, Gavi chief program officer, noted that the first rollout will see the introduction of the RTS, S vaccine in 42 districts. Health authorities said young children will receive the malaria vaccine alongside other essential vaccinations, ensuring wider and sustained coverage.
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The RTS, S malaria vaccine is administered in a four-dose schedule to children living in areas with moderate to high malaria transmission. The recommended age for starting the series is five months old, with subsequent doses given at monthly intervals until the child reaches nine months of age.
Health updates by Ms. Cliantha Padayachee: Heart health check Brisbane, Jan 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
Now that we’ve all settled into 2024 and the world comes out of the era of pandemic stress and strain it’s important to consider our health in proactive ways. One way to get ahead of the game and prevent larger issues in heart health, such as heart attacks or heart failure is to get a Heart Health Check done. Medicare covers the cost of a specific heart health check if the GP bulk bills. The 20-minute check covers lifestyle habits, family background and other factors that contribute to heart health such as diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure. The GP will then put all the information about together and provide an overall risk of heart disease specifically for you. If there are areas which need improvement to prevent heart disease, your GP can advise you or refer
you to other specialists to address these areas. If you are deemed high risk of heart disease, the GP will refer you on for further testing to investigate whether there is any established disease which can be treated. The check is recommended for those who are aged 45 – 79 years old, or over 35 years old if you are diabetic and over 30 years old if of First Nations background. It’s a great idea to get the check done to give you some peace of mind and information about how your heart may be travelling. More information on this specific check can be found on the Heart Foundation website https://www.heartfoundation. org.au/heart-health-education/ heart-health-checks Cliantha Padayachee, Cardiac Scientist Email: clio.padayachee92@ gmail.com
A booster dose is then recommended at two years of age. According to WHO’s 2021 World Malaria Report, SubSaharan Africa still accounts for roughly 95 percent of global malaria cases and 96 percent of deaths. Children under five bear the brunt of the disease, with an estimated 263,000 lives lost in 2020 alone. (Anadolu)
DOH urges police to ensure vape inaccessibility to minors “We need stronger implementation at ang DOH [Department of Health] magre-remind (and the DOH will remind), but I hope the police, vendors, stores will strictly implement no sales to minors of its vape products,” he said. He noted that tobacco use, in general, has decreased — from 29.7 percent in 2009 to Manila, Jan 16 (PNA) By Ma. Teresa 19 percent in 2022. Montemayor MANILA – Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure that teenagers do not have access to vapes or electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). In a media forum on Tuesday, Herbosa said he wrote a request to PNP regarding the implementation of the law on such products and to ensure that “minors should not have access to vaping.” www.mccq.org.au
of] e-cigarette is increasing. Before, there is none, it is 14 percent among the youth),” he added. According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey, about 11 percent of students nationwide use tobacco, 10 percent smoke cigarettes, and 14 percent use e-cigarettes. In 2021, data from the Philippine Pediatric Society showed that 11 percent of students ages 10 to 15 years old already tried vapes.
“Dahil siguro sa sin tax sa tobacco. Ang tobacco sa youth bumaba din from 22 percent in 2007 naging 12 Online accessibility (32 percent na lang in 2019 (This percent), varied flavors (22 may be due to the sin tax on percent), and the belief that tobacco. Tobacco [use] among e-cigarettes are safer than the youth also went down tobacco (17 percent) are from 22 percent in 2007 to 12 the top three reasons for the percent in 2019),” he said. use of vapes among the age group. “Ang problema, ang tumataas ang e-cigarette. Dati wala Republic Act No. 9211 ito, ngayon 14 percent ang (Tobacco Regulation Act of youth (The problem is, [use 2003) and Executive Order
No. 106 by former President Rodrigo Duterte prohibit the sale or distribution of tobacco products within 100 meters of schools, public playgrounds, or other facilities where minors may be found.
into law which lowered age restriction of such products from 21 years old to 18 years old, removed comprehensive ban on vapes and heated tobacco products in public places, and allowed their advertisement.
Nonetheless, a study by the Institute for Global Tobacco Control (IGTC) at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Health showed that more than 2,000 cigarette vendors were selling tobacco products within 100 meters of at least 276 schools.
The measure also removed restriction for non-smokers against using vape, added more vape flavors, and removed the mandate of regulation from the Food and Drug Administration.
At least 43 e-cigarette and 33 heated tobacco products retailers were located near several schools. The study was conducted from December 2022 and January 2023 in nine cities, and urban and rural areas of the country’s regions. In 2022, the Vape Bill lapsed
Herbosa said the increase in vape use among the youth pose health risks to them and other people. Last year, the PNP said it will remind students caught outside schools to quit smoking or vaping and that it will confiscate vapes or e-cigarettes from students who have to be reminded repeatedly. (PNA)
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S. Africa’s Parliament calls for pressure on Israel to comply with ICJ order South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. (Photo: twitter.com/ PresidencyZA)
Cape Town, Jan 27 (IANS)
The South African Parliament has welcomed the “landmark ruling” of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the country’s genocide case against Israel, calling on the international community to apply pressure on Israel to comply with the order. The ICJ has determined that Israel’s actions in Gaza are “plausibly genocidal” and has indicated provisional measures on that basis, Xinhua news agency reported, citing a statement issued by the parliament on Friday evening. Calling it “a significant human rights victory”, the parliament said “the ruling vindicates South Africa’s position on an immediate ceasefire and cessation of
hostilities in Gaza”. In the statement, the South African parliament called on Israel to respect the binding measures and to cease all plausibly genocidal acts in Gaza and against the Palestinian people. “There is now no credible basis for Israel and its supporters’ indiscriminate military actions in the name of self-defense. The ruling is a clear demonstration of Israel’s non-compliance with international law, including the Genocide Convention,” said the parliament. Therefore, it noted, the ruling compels Israel to stop immediately all hostilities in Gaza and allow more UN humanitarian aid.
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“Considering the measures ordered by the court, we call on governments, parliaments, and the international community to respond by applying pressure on Israel to comply with the order,” it added. The parliament also called on the United Nations Security Council, upon formal notification of the ICJ’s order and pursuant to its statute, to ensure swift action as “no government or state is above the law.” On December 29, 2023, South Africa filed an application to the ICJ for proceedings against Israel, concerning alleged violations by Israel of its obligations under the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide related to Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
Egyptian Navy receives German-made MEKO-A200 frigate
Cairo, Jan 1 (IANS)
The Egyptian naval forces received a new German-made MEKO-A200 frigate at a base in the coastal province of Alexandria, the Egyptian military said in a statement. Built by Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), the frigate delivery procedures were already completed in Bremerhaven, Germany, in mid-December before the warship headed to Egypt, Xinhua news agency reported. Named “Al-Qadeer,” the new frigate is the third MEKO-A200 warship to be delivered to Egypt out of four frigates contracted between Egypt and TKMS in 2018. The Egyptian Navy received the first frigate, “Al-Aziz,” in
October 2022 and the second, “Al-Qahhar,” in May 2023. The Egyptian military spokesman, Gharib AbdelHafez, said on Sunday in the statement that the “Al-Qadeer” frigate will increase the technological and combat capabilities of the Egyptian naval forces to confront challenges and risks and safeguard the country’s coasts along the Red Sea and the Mediterranean. While the first three units were built in Germany, the fourth frigate, dubbed “AlJabbar,” is currently under construction by Egyptian shipbuilding company Alexandria Shipyard and is expected to be delivered in October 2025, said TKMS in a press statement earlier in December.
Melodious: PM Modi praises patriotic song by Egyptian girl on 75th R-Day New Delhi, Jan 29 (IANS)
Egypt denies reports of suspending navigation in Suez Canal Cairo, Jan 13 (IANS)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised a patriotic song rendered by an Egyptian girl at India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations in Cairo. Dressed in traditional Indian attire, Kariman sang the ‘Desh Rangeela’ song at the India House, leaving a large gathering of Indians and Egyptians impressed. “This rendition by Kariman from Egypt is melodious! I congratulate her for this effort and wish her the very best for her future endeavours,” PM Modi wrote as he shared the video of the song on X. The video was originally shared by the Indian Embassy in Egypt on Sunday, which praised Kariman’s “melodious singing” and “intonation”.
“A young Egyptian girl Kariman presented a patriotic song ‘Desh Rangeela’ during 75th #RepublicDay celebrations at ‘India House’. Her melodious singing and correct intonation impressed the large gathering of Indians and Egyptians,” the Embassy said. It further stated in successive posts that young Egyptians showcased their love for Indian classical dance and music, with cultural programmes at the India House in the Egyptian capital. Women from the Indian community performed Garba after Ambassador Ajit V Gupte unfurled the Tricolour and read the address of President Droupadi Murmu to the Indian diaspora and friends of India in the country. According to the Indian Embassy in Cairo, the Indian
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community in Egypt numbers around 3,200, most of whom are concentrated in the country’s capital. There are also a small number of families in Alexandria, Port Said, and Ismailia. A majority of the Indians are either employed with Indian companies or are professionals with various multinationals. About 400 Indian students are studying in Egypt, mainly in Al Azhar University with around 275 students, and the rest in Ain Shams Medical University (around 80 students) and Cairo University, the Embassy website said. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited the country in October 2022 where he thanked the diaspora for advancing India’s national interests and shaping the country’s image in the region.
Egypt had denied reports of a temporary suspension of navigation in the Suez Canal as a result of the ongoing tension in the Red Sea’s strategic Bab-el-Mandeb area. Chairman of Egypt’s Suez Canal Authority (SCA), Osama Rabie said on Friday that navigation traffic in the canal is regular in both directions, reports Xinhua news agency. He noted that navigational services are commencing normally at the Suez Canal, revealing that 44 ships with a combined net tonnage of 2.3 million will cross from both directions on Saturday. Rabie stressed the SCA’s keenness to open direct channels of communication and coordinate with companies and shipping lines to better serve the shipping community and ensure the sustainability of global supply chains. On Thursday, Rabie said the ship traffic had decreased by 30 per cent in the Canal since
the beginning of 2024 compared to the same period of 2023, due to recent tensions in the Red Sea. Furthermore, the US dollar revenues from the Suez Canal have downed by 40 per cent, and the loads shrank by 41 per cent between January 1 and 11, compared to the same period of 2023, he added. Since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in Gaza in October 2023, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have repeatedly attacked commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The US and Britain launched several airstrikes on Houthi military sites in the Yemeni capital Sanaa and other provinces under the militia’s control on Friday in response to the attacks carried out by the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The Suez Canal, which carries 12 per cent of global trade, serves as one of Egypt’s main sources of foreign currency.
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N. Korea fires several cruise missiles, says SoKor military Seoul, Jan 28 (PNA)
North Korea fired several cruise missiles from its east coast on Sunday, the South Korean military said, days after Pyongyang test-fired new strategic cruise missiles from the west coast.
It was the North’s second cruise missile launch this year. The first, named Pulhwasal-3-31, was fired toward the Yellow Sea on Wednesday.
The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the North’s launch Experts said the Pulhwasal-3-31 appears to took place around 8 a.m. in be a nuclear-capable cruise waters off Shinpo Port. missile, considering that the However, it did not elaborate, number in its name is identical to that of the Hwasan-31, citing ongoing analysis. a tactical nuclear warhead that North Korea first unveiled in “While strengthening our March 2023. monitoring and vigilance, our military has been closely coordinating with the United The North first test-fired the Hawsal-1 cruise missile in States to monitor additional September 2021 and launched signs of North Korea’s several Hwasal-1 and -2 provocations,” the JCS said cruise missiles presumed to in a text message sent to be capable of carrying tactical reporters.
nuclear weapons last year. Hwasal means an arrow in Korean, and Pulhwasal means a fire arrow. Cruise missiles fly low and maneuver, making them better at evading missile defenses. The launch of a cruise missile is not a direct violation of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions banning the North’s use of ballistic missile technology. However, it could pose a serious threat to South Korea’s security as nuclear warheads can be mounted on such missiles. North Korea has dialed up tensions on the Korean
China downplays Taiwan ruling party’s well as foreign interference.” election win For its part, China’s Foreign Ministry released a statement calling the “Taiwan question” the country’s “internal affair.”
VICTORIOUS. President-elect Lai Ching-te (left) and Vice Presidentelect Hsiao Bikhim wave to the crowd in Taipei, Taiwan on Saturday (Jan. 13, 2024). Taiwan’s presidential election is held every four years. (Anadolu) Istanbul, Jan 14 (PNA)
eight.
China downplayed the victory Asserting China’s claim on Taiwan, Chen said the elecof the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate tion results “will not alter the (DPP) in Taiwan’s presiden- shared aspiration of compatritial election Saturday, claim- ots across the Taiwan Strait to forge closer ties, and will not ing that the result “cannot impede the inevitable trend of represent the mainstream China’s reunification.” public opinion.” “The elections will not change the basic landscape and development trend of cross-Strait relations,” said the spokesman for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, Chen Binhua, after William Lai Ching-te’s election win.
Beijing considers Taiwan as its “breakaway province” but Taipei has insisted on its independence since 1949, enjoying full diplomatic relations with 13 nations.
“Our stance on resolving the Taiwan question and realizing Beijing’s remarks came hours national reunification remains after incumbent Lai Ching-te, consistent, and our determination is as firm as rock,” Chen 64, won with around 40.5 said, according to a statement percent in the election, with released on state media. a turnout of 69.24 percent, resulting in an unprecedented The DPP won the presidential third consecutive term for a elections, held every four political party. years, for an unprecedented consecutive third term since Lai Ching-te was vice president for outgoing President 1996 when Taiwan held its direct polls to the island Tsai Ing-wen. nation’s top post. However, the DPP faced Chen said Beijing “will decline in the country’s Legislative Assembly, where adhere to the 1992 Consensus that embodies the one-China it secured 51 seats, one short of the main opposition principle and firmly oppose the separatist activities aimed Kuomintang’s 52, while the at ‘Taiwan independence’ as Taiwan People’s Party got www.mccq.org.au
“The one-China principle is the solid anchor for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We believe that the international community will continue to adhere to the one-China principle, and understand and support the Chinese people’s just cause of opposing ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist activities and striving to achieve national reunification,” the ministry said. The US and Japan welcomed Taiwan election results. “We congratulate Dr. Lai Ching-te on his victory in Taiwan’s presidential election. We also congratulate the Taiwan people for participating in free and fair elections and demonstrating the strength of their democratic system,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on X. Tokyo was also quick in its response to the Taiwanese polls. “For Japan, Taiwan is an extremely crucial partner and an important friend, with which it shares fundamental values and enjoys close economic relations and people to people exchanges,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Peninsula with weapons tests and harsh rhetoric in an election year for South Korea and the United States. North launched a solid-fuel hypersonic missile into the East Sea on Jan. 14 in its first missile firing this year.
Pyongyang also claimed it had tested an underwater nuclear attack drone in protest of the latest joint military drills among South Korea, the U.S. and Japan earlier this month. (Yonhap)
Japan begins probe into planes collision at Tokyo airport
After collision between Japan Airlines, coast guard planes at Tokyo airport (David Mareuil - Anadolu Agency) Istanbul, Jan 3 (PNA)
Japan on Wednesday began an investigation into the collision of two planes which resulted in the death of at least five crew members. The Japan Transport Safety Board members and police visited the site of the crash at Haneda Airport in the capital Tokyo, Kyodo News reported. The collision between an aircraft of Japan Airlines and a plane of Japan Coast Guard happened at around 5:49 p.m. on Tuesday (0849GMT). Flight and voice recorders of the coast guard aircraft were recovered while that of the Japan Airlines plane were still missing. Five of the six crew members of the coast guard plane were killed while 379 passengers, including crew of Japan Airlines aircraft, made a
miraculous escape. The coast guard plane was carrying relief material for the earthquake-hit people in Niigata province after Japan was hit by earthquakes of magnitude as high as 7.6 on Monday with the epicenter in Noto Peninsula and surrounding areas on the Sea of Japan coast. At least 64 people have died in Ishikawa province due to the tremors. The plane collision triggered the closure of all four runways, three of which were reopened late Tuesday. However, dozens of flights were canceled. It took authorities more than eight hours to control flames on the Japan Airlines aircraft, produced by Airbus SAS with engines from UK’s Rolls-Royce and delivered in November 2021. (Anadolu
It added that Tokyo expects that the “issue surrounding” Taiwan will be “resolved peacefully through dialogue, thereby contributing to the peace and stability in the region.” (Anadolu)
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PTI could face ban if top brass convicted: political opponents Islamabad, Jan 28 (IANS)
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) opponents are of the view that party could face a ban if its founder Imran Khan and other top brass leaders are convicted in various cases pending in the court.
The under-trial cases are pertaining to May 9 violence, flouting the Secrets Act in the cipher case and the foreign funding case, among others. In 2023, the Election
Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had declared that PTI had received “prohibited funds”, creating an opportunity for then PDM government led by Shehbaz Sharif to seek dissolution of the PTI. The PDM government had got an opportunity to raise the question before the Supreme Court to declare the PTI a banned entity but then Shehbaz Sharif government opted to agitate the matter later at an appropriate time, Azam Nazir Tarrar, Law and Justice Minister in the previous government told The News. The PTI leaders were unavailable for comment.
Adani Group to invest in various public sectors of Nepal: Minister Kathmandu, Jan 24 (IANS)
Nepal Finance Minister Ram Sharan Mahat has said that Adani Group will invest in various public sectors in Nepal including airports and energy sector. “The founder and chairman of the Adani Group, Gautam Adani had proposed to invest in Nepal, particularly in energy and airport management sectors,” Mahat said after having recently met the business magnate in Gujarat. Mahat -- who was recently in Gujarat to attend the Vibrant Gujarat Summit -- met Adani, who in return has pledged to invest in Nepal particularly in the construction of the new airport near India-Nepal border and taking over the management of the Bhairawaha International Airport, Tribhuwan International Airport among others. “I also invited him (Adani) to participate in the upcoming Nepal Investment Summit to be organised by the government of Nepal in April. He has committed that he will try his best to attend the summit,” Mahat told IANS. Nepal has recently built
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two international airports in Bhairawaha and Pokhara but they have failed to conduct regular flights after India refused to provide air space for Nepali flights to operate.
The Pokhara International Airport was built with a Chinese loan while the airport in Bhairawaha was built with a loan extended by the Asian Development Bank but built by the Chinese contractors. Mahat said that he (Adani) had expressed his intent to expand and operate the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, taking management of the Bhairawaha International Airport and construction of the Nijgadh International Airport in Bara. “The new airport in Nijgadh is expected to cost around $ 6.7 billion. We are ready to operate the international airports in Bhairawaha and will construct the airport in Nijgadh,” Mahat told IANS quoting Adani as saying. Mahat said that Adani has also expressed intent to invest in hydropower projects in Nepal particularly in investing in Bheri and Karnali projects. “A team of Adani Group had recently visited Kathmandu and held talks with Director General of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) Pradip Adhikari and discussed the possibility of investing in Nepal’s airport sector,” Mahat said.
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He said that after being unable to operate the Pokhara Regional International Airport (PRIA) and Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA), which were built with loans, CAAN has decided to bring the private sector into the operation of three international airports including the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and the construction of the Nijgadh International Airport.
Ram temple in Ayodhya to have waiting area for devotees to ease rush Ayodhya, Jan 29 (IANS)
To ensure better crowd management and reduce long queues of devotees in the Ram temple complex, the Ayodhya administration and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust decided to develop a holding area in the pilgrim facilitation centre. After the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony of Ram Lalla on January 22, the Ayodhya administration has been grappling with the problem of crowd management. To address the issue, the state government has constituted a committee comprising officials of the Ayodhya administration and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for proper coordination to manage the crowd and other affairs related to the Ram Mandir. Divisional Commissioner, Gaurav Dayal, who heads the committee, has suggested developing a holding area at the pilgrim facilitation centre of the temple where devotees could stay for some time before allowing them to enter the main complex of the temple. “This will ease the pressure
of devotees in the temple complex and also reduce long queues,” he said. All prominent temples in South India have big holding areas to reduce pressure on devotees in the temple complex. The Ram Mandir complex has a pilgrim facilitation centre, but a holding area in the facility needs to be developed. It has also been decided that the Trust would appoint more security staff from the private agency engaged by it due to the unprecedented crowd for the darshan of Ram Lalla. Regarding the issue of sanitation in the temple complex, the Commissioner directed the private agency hired by the Trust to maintain cleanliness in the temple complex by recruiting more staff for proper sanitation. The agency was also instructed to place dustbins at various locations, including at the spot where devotees undergo frisking before entering the temple. IG, Ayodhya range, Praveen Kumar, suggested the Trust to put up an artificial intelligence-based cameras at the temple’s entrance and exit.
“CAAN has sent a proposal to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation to allow four airports to be operated on the Public Private Partnership model. But CAAN has made up its mind to call for a global bidding process for leasing out the three international airports and construction of another international airport in Nijgadh that is located near the Nepal-India border,” Mahat said. Nepal’s Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Sudan Kirati said that the government is studying to prepare a package to run all three international airports and construction of the new airport in Nijgadh.
Ayodhya: Devotees throng, waiting for ‘darshan’ at the Ram temple, in Ayodhya, Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024. The doors of the Ram temple opened to the general public on Tuesday, a day after the consecration of the new Ram Lalla idol.(IANS/Phool Chandra)
“In the absence of regular international flights in Pokhara and Bhairawaha, we have to go for construction of another airport in Nijgadh. We are preparing a package so that all these three airports can do the business smoothly and the new airport in Nijgadh can be built,” Kirati said.
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Pope calls for regulation of artificial intelligence Rome, Jan 25 (PNA)
There is a need for international regulation of artificial intelligence to prevent it from being misused, said Pope Francis in his message for the Day of Social Communications on May 12, which was published Wednesday.
unquestionably represents a qualitative leap,” he added.
“Starting with the first wave of artificial intelligence, that of social media, we have experienced its ambivalence: its possibilities but also its risks and associated pathologies,” said Francis in his message.
Like every other product of human intelligence and skill, algorithms are not neutral, he continued.
“The second level of generative artificial intelligence
“It is important therefore to understand, appreciate and regulate instruments that, in the wrong hands, could lead to disturbing scenarios,” said the pope.
Francis therefore called on regulators to “act preventively” to forestall “harmful, discriminatory and socially unjust effects of the use of
UN trade body sounds alarm over Red Sea conflict’s impact on systems of artificial intelligence and to combat their trade; Suez shipping misuse for the purpose of reducing pluralism, polarizing down 42% public opinion or creating forms of groupthink”.
“I once more appeal to the international community to work together in order to adopt a binding international treaty that regulates the development and use of artificial intelligence in its many forms,” he continued, recalling however that “as in every human context, regulation is, of itself, not sufficient”. (ANSA)
United Nations, Jan 26 (IANS)
Sounding an alarm about the impact of the Red Sea conflict on the international economy, the United Nations trade body UNCTAD has said that the volume of international trade going through the Suez Canal has come down by 42 per cent during the last two months and is affecting energy exports to India. “We are concerned that the attacks on Red Sea shipping are adding tensions to a context of global trade disruptions due to geopolitics and climate change,” Jan Hoffmann, who heads the Trade Logistics Branch of UNCTAD, told reporters on Thursday.
Epic Games CEO terms Apple EU App Store changes as ‘hot garbage’ San Francisco, Jan 26 (IANS)
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, has termed Apple changes to its App Store in the European Union ahead of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) as “hot garbage”. His company, however, announced that their popular Fortnite game will return to iOS in Europe this year. In a lengthy post on X, Sweeney called the Apple update “a devious new instance of malicious compliance”. “They are forcing developers to choose between App Store exclusivity and the store terms, which will be illegal under DMA, or accept a new also-illegal anticompetitive scheme rife with new Junk Fees on downloads and new Apple taxes on payments
they don’t process,” Sweeney alleged. Apple could block Epic from launching the Epic Games Store and distributing Fortnite through it, for example, or block Microsoft, Valve, Good Old Games, or new entrants. “Epic has always supported the notion of Apple notarisation and malware scanning for apps, but we strongly reject Apple’s twisting this process to undermine competition and continue imposing Apple taxes on transactions they’re not involved in,” said the Epic Games CEO. “There’s a lot more hot garbage in Apple’s announcement,” he added.
Meanwhile, his gaming company posted on X that Fortnite will return to iOS in Europe later this year, distributed by the upcoming Epic Games Store for iOS. “Stay tuned for details as we figure out the regulatory timeline. We’ll continue to argue to the courts and regulators that Apple is breaking the law,” said the company. Fortnite hasn’t been available on iOS for more than three years, after Apple removed it from the App Store and banned Epic for sneaking in third-party in-app payments. Last week, the US Supreme Court declined to hear the appeals filed by both Apple and Epic Games, following a judge’s ruling that Apple must allow developers to offer alternative methods to pay for apps and services other than through the App Store. “The court battle to open iOS to competing stores and payments is lost in the United States. A sad outcome for all developers,” said Sweeney.
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The longer trade distances and higher freight rates as ships avoid the Red Sea and the Suez Canal “could have cascading effects on food prices”, he said, warning of the spectre of inflation. He said that according to the UNCTAD estimates, attacks by Houthi rebels on ships in the Red Sea region since November have led to the volume of shipping using the Suez Canal falling by 42 per cent. Majors in the shipping industry are temporarily stopping Suez transits as they search for other routes, he said. Some energy exports from Europe to India go through the Suez Canal, he said. The Suez Canal which connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea is a vital link connecting Asia and East Africa with Europe and beyond and handled approximately 12 per cent to 15 per cent of global trade last year. To avoid the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, ships have to go around the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa. UNCTAD – the UN Conference on Trade and Development – is the world body’s agency for trade and
development. Hoffman said that the Red Sea crisis comes on top of the problems in two other areas, the Panama Canal and the Black Sea. While the Black Sea, a major conduit for foodgrains from Ukraine, has been affected by the war, the Panama Canal has been hit by climate change-related problems. Droughts have reduced water in the canal to the lowest level in decades reducing the number and sizes of the ships that can transit it. Hoffman said that the disruptions in key global trade routes have already led to a rise in energy prices. “Prolonged disruptions in major trade routes would disrupt global supply chains, leading to delayed deliveries of goods, increased costs and potential inflation,” he said. In Suez Canal affected by the Red Sea attacks by Houthi rebels, “the container shipping sector faces a significant challenge”, Hoffmann said. Early data from 2024 showed that over 300 container vessels – over 20 per cent of global container capacity – were being diverted from or planning alternatives to the Suez Canal, he said. Ships carrying gas have altogether stopped using the Suez because of the catastrophic impact an attack on them would have. Container ship transits per week are down 67 per cent compared to a year ago while tanker traffic is down by 18 per cent, and in the category of dry bulk carriers, which transport grains or coal, shipping is down 6 per cent. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis)
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UK bids to reduce number of migrants arriving by legal routes “significant progress” in closing hotels, with 50 due to be shut by the end of January and more in the coming months.
UK moves asylum-seekers to temporary-housing barge “Bibby Stockholm” Asked what steps were being London, Jan 16 (PNA)
Britain’s home secretary on Monday reiterated the government’s policy to reduce the number of migrants arriving by legal routes as well as to stop asylum seekers arriving across the English Channel in small boats.
Responding to lawmakers’ questions in parliament, James Cleverly said 92,000 legacy asylum claims were cleared last year and more than 112,000 claims were processed, marking the “largest volume in two decades.” Saying that total asylum backlog is decreasing, he noted that they will continue to review and improve processes to accelerate the decision making in this regard. In response to questions from members of the parliament, Cleverly defended the government’s migration policy and criticized the opposition for having “no plan.” “They have no plan, they have no commitment, and they’ve even said that if something is working, they would scrap it,” he said.
taken to reduce the number of legal migrants coming to the UK, Cleverly cited recent government measures to further reduce legal net migration, including limitations on family dependents being brought in by workers and students.
Pursglove added that reducing inflow into the system in the first place is the “crucial point” and called for support for the government’s Safety of Rwanda Bill.
Following the UK Supreme Court’s decision, the government introduced the bill, which states that Rwanda He also vowed to raise the is a safe country to remove minimum income requirement asylum seekers to. progressively over the next few years. A majority of British lawmakers last month backed “We want to make sure that a controversial bill that would this country is able to benefit allow the government to send from the expertise, knowledge asylum seekers to Rwanda. and work of the brightest and best from around the whole The bill, which was submitted world in a manner which to parliament in early is controlled, which is fair, December, aims to address which is predictable and the concerns of the Supreme which is well enforced,” he Court, which ruled that the said. government’s original plan to send asylum seekers to He again criticized the the East African country was Labour Party for opposing unlawful. “every single step” that the government is taking to bring Nearly 30,000 migrants the migration figure down. crossed the English Channel last year, over a third less On housing unaccompanied than in 2022, when over migrants in hotels, a policy 45,000 made the crossing, which the government shifted and slightly higher than the on, Tom Pursglove, minister number in 2021, when more for legal migration and than 28,000 arrived in the delivery, said they are making UK. (Anadolu)
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) Steadfast Defender drills are “provocative”, and could potentially lead to “tragic consequences” for Europe, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has said. “For several months, 90,000 forces from 31 NATO
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member countries, as well as Sweden, will be actively operating near Russian borders on the territory from Norway to Romania,” Zakharova was quoted by Xinhua news agency as saying on Friday.
Such a step was “provocative,” and “deliberately aimed at escalating the situation,” she said, warning that it could increase the risk of military
British Sikh says was urged to confess Post Office theft due to her Asian descent
“We’re also working to move asylum seekers into alternative cheaper accommodation and have successfully cleared the legacy backlog by deciding more than 112,000 cases,” he noted.
NATO’s Steadfast Defender drills could lead to ‘tragic consequences for Europe’: Russia
Moscow, Jan 27 (IANS)
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incidents and “ultimately lead to tragic consequences for Europe.” NATO kicked off the “Steadfast Defender 2024” exercises, its largest military drills in decades, on Wednesday. The exercises will take place in several locations and run until May 31.
London, Jan 26 (IANS)
An elderly British Sikh former post office operator has claimed that she faced discrimination due to her Asian heritage and was urged by the auditors to confess to stealing 30,000 pounds.
types”, “Chinese/Japanese types” and “dark-skinned European types”.
After this, many individuals came forward, alleging that racial biases influenced their prosecutions with one claiming that he was told by a Kuldeep Kaur Atwal, 73, was Post Office staff member that accused of stealing the money “all Indians are doing it”. over a period from July 1995 “Looking back, I feel like until November 1996, when saying they were bullies, to Post Office auditors made a morning visit to the Coventry be honest. I lost my job and everybody judges you. The branch in 1997. Post Office was so strong -- everybody feared them,” Before her trial at Coventry Crown Court in 1997, Atwal, Atwal told The Guardian. then 46, was told by the “I felt for my husband more auditors that her cultural background may have played than anything with all the a role in her criminality, The staff, all the students, looking Guardian newspaper reported down on him,” she said. on Thursday. The accounting system that While she was cleared of all Atwal used in her branch in charges later, Atwal claims it Coventry was ‘Capture’ -- a was suggested by the auditors predecessor to the infamous Horizon IT software, whose that if she admitted to being malfunctioning led to the at fault, she may be able to avoid the harshest sanctions. wrongful conviction of more than 900 people. A mother of three, Atwal Internal documents seen by said the auditor’s alleged comment had made her angry the Guardian suggested the Post Office had also been at the time but she had felt aware of “serious problems” powerless to respond. with Capture, prompting a series of software upgrades. “One of the auditors commented to me... that ‘It is quite common in your society “What makes me angry is that the Post Office knew all that women come under pressure to take money on the along about the problems side, they don’t tell the family. with Horizon, and now they are not coming clean about Is someone putting pressure the pre-Horizon system. The on you?” Atwal recounted. Capture system was full of bugs and errors,” Labour MP “He meant being an Asian Kevan Jones, who has been woman, the culture is such prominent in the campaign for that the rest of the family the post office operators, told puts pressure on the woman The Guardian. (leading to theft). I said, ‘Don’t be silly’.” Meanwhile, London’s While Atwal was declared not Metropolitan Police has guilty due to lack of evidence, opened a new investigation into the Post Office over pothe Post Office went on to tential fraud offences. The UK demand that Atwal pay the government said earlier this money she had been falsely accused of stealing, following month that it will introduce which she had to sell off her new legislation to overturn the convictions of hundreds branch for a fraction of its of post office managers who market value. were wrongly convicted of theft and fraud. Last year, the Post Office apologised after a document was discovered in which operators like Atwal were categorised as “negroid
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FEB 2024 - Vol 1, Issue 1
Can Vivek be Trump’s 2024 answer to Biden’s 2020 Kamala Harris?
New Delhi, Jan 21 (IANS)
Throughout his presidential campaign, the only thing that the voluble and supremely self-assured Indian-American candidate Vivek Ramaswamy did not do was to take on his Republican rival, former President Donald Trump, head-on. Instead, he waxed eloquent about the twice-impeached Trump, facing more than 90 criminal charges, calling him the “greatest President” of the 21st century, pledging to pardon him if elected as the POTUS. Endorsing the GOP frontrunner after dropping out of the White House bid earlier this week, Ramaswamy has played the ‘Trump card’ well by saying time and again that he is in step with the former president’s approach to what ails the United States. While one wonders whether he was running against Trump at all, Ramaswamy had said after his campaign announcement that he is “taking the Trump America first agenda to the next level to actually get the job done”. HIGH ON LOYALTY POINTS As a TIME report puts it, “publicly, he is perhaps Donald Trump’s most loyal -- if lonely -- defender. From the start of his nascent run, he was careful to stand next to Trump and Trumpism, recognising its potency”. With each supportive move in favour of the almost octogenarian leader, the 38-year-old political newbie not only positioned himself as the “heir-apparent to Trump” but also bettered his chances of running as the 2024’s likely president’s running mate. Be it the Colorado Supreme Court ruling, FBI raiding Trump’s Florida club, criminal charges and indictment -- Ramaswamy has never shied away from screaming about Biden’s weaponisation of the Department of Justice, shutting down the FBI, and urging fellow Republican candidates in the presidential www.mccq.org.au
race to do the same.
Kamala Devi Harris, in 2020.
And Trump has always returned the favour, calling Ramaswamy “smart guy” and a “very intelligent person”, stopping short of giving him derisive nicknames like ‘Birdbrain’, the one he had for the second Indian-American candidate in the race, Nikki Haley.
Nearly fifty per cent of voters from the community reportedly said that Harris’ nomination as Vice President made them more enthusiastic about Joe Biden’s candidacy in 2020.
While being asked on a TV show in September last year whether he was considering a “Vice President Vivek”, Trump said: “Well, I think he’s great. Look, anybody that said, I’m the best president in a generation... So I have to like a guy like that. You know, I can’t get upset with him.” The most recent display of bonhomie -- and perhaps the biggest sign that Trump is considering Ramaswamy as his vice president -- was seen in Atkinson, New Hampshire, where he made his first campaign trail appearance with Ramaswamy after his recent Iowa victory. “He’s going to be working with us and he’ll be working with us for a long time,” Trump said in his victory speech, calling Ramaswamy a “special person” and congratulating him for doing “one hell of a job”. Following his eight-minute passionate speech endorsing Trump, the supporters greeted him with chants of “VP, VP”. TAPPING INDIANAMERICAN VOTE, SWING STATES According to political analysts, Trump is looking for a person who can swing the battleground states in his favour, and Ramaswamy, being an Indian-American, can play a key role here. Often considered to be key players in these states, the impact of Indian-Americans was evident on the ballot box as they turned up in huge numbers to vote in the tightly-contested November 2020 presidential race. Some 1.3 million IndianAmericans voted in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin -- the states with no clear allegiances or leanings towards either of the two major parties in the US. In addition, Ramaswamy’s run for the Vice Presidency in 2024 can galvanise IndianAmericans to turn out to vote, just as it did for Biden and his Indian-origin running mate,
After the two shared the stage in New Hampshire, an X user wrote: “They’re the complete opposite of Biden and Harris. Biden and Harris are destroying our nation, while Trump and Vivek will restore it to its former glory”. THE ONLY HICCUP FOR ‘VERY SLY’ VIVEK Like doesn’t always attract like, as was seen when Trump slammed the “very sly” Ramaswamy in a blistering social media post on January 13, saying that a vote for him is a vote for the other side. Calling the attack “friendly fire”, Ramaswamy refused to criticise Trump but a day after, Trump’s top aide, Jason Miller, said voters could “probably” rule out Ramaswamy as the ex-President’s running mate. “Pretty safe to say it won’t be Vivek,” he said.
NORTH AMERICA
Trump ordered to pay writer Carroll $83.3-M in defamation case New York, Jan 27 (PNA)
Former US President Donald Trump was ordered to pay writer E. Jean Carroll USD83.3 million whom he defamed in 2019, a Manhattan federal jury said Friday. The nine-person jury – two women and seven men ordered Trump to pay Carroll USD11 million for a reputational repair program, USD7.3 million in other compensatory damages and USD65 million in punitive damages. The total is more than eight times what Carroll asked for in her initial lawsuit. Trump, who led the polls for the Republican primaries in Iowa and New Hamshire, left the courthouse minutes before the verdict and was not inside the room when the jury returned. On a Truth Social post, Trump blasted the verdict as “absolutely ridiculous” and said he would appeal the decision. Friday’s verdict marked the second time Carroll won
damages from Trump at trial.
Last May, a separate Manhattan federal jury awarded Carroll USD5 million in damages, including nearly USD3 million for defamation, after they found the former president sexually abused the writer and then defamed her in 2022 in public statements he made while denying the allegations. Carroll, a former magazine columnist, alleged that Trump raped her in a department store in the mid-1990s and then defamed her when he denied her claim. (Xinhua)
GUILTY. Former US President Donald Trump (right) sits in the courtroom during his civil fraud trial at the New York State Supreme Court in New York, United States on Oct. 18, 2023. Trump lost to writer Jean Carroll who filed a defamation a case against him in 2019. (Xinhua)
During the early days of Ramaswamy’s campaigning, Trump had warned the political newcomer that he was becoming “a little bit controversial”, and asked him to “be a little bit careful” with what he says, especially on policy matters such as climate change and no birthright citizenship. VIVEK RULES OUT NO. 2 POSITION The Ohio native who stood at number four in polls for the Republican presidential nomination, led the 2024 campaign with a record 42 campaign stops in a week -the highest among candidates. Asserting that he is not a “Plan B person”, Ramaswamy has rejected the idea or speculation of his joining the Trump cabinet in any official capacity if the former President retakes the White House from Joe Biden in 2024. In an interview to Fox News in August 2023, the anti-woke crusader said that like Trump, he would not do well in a number two position. “I’m not interested in a different position in the government. Frankly, I’d drive change through the private sector sooner than becoming a number 2 or a number 3 in the federal government,” Ramaswamy had said.
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Funding suspension forces UNRWA to halt all Gaza activities in weeks: Official Gaza, Jan 29 (IANS)
Funding suspension would force UNRWA to halt all its activities in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip in a few weeks, the UN relief agency’s Commissioner-General said. Philippe Lazzarini said on his social media X account on Sunday that the suspension decision is “regrettable,” stressing that the agency “relies on the support of our partners to maintain our humanitarian response to two million people in Gaza and Palestinian refugees in the region”. The US, Canada, Britain, Germany, Australia, Finland and the Netherlands decided to pause funding to UNRWA after Israel accused several UNRWA employees of
suspected involvement in the October 7 attack on Israel last year, Xinhua news agency reported. Lazzarini said he was “shocked” upon knowing the accusations against its employees, adding that the agency has decided to “dismiss the employees concerned and to commence an investigation without delay”. “UNRWA is also implementing structural reforms to enhance the commitment of its staff to humanitarian principles, including the principle of neutrality, with independent experts responsible for assessing and deepening our efforts in this direction,” he noted. UNRWA, established by
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Heavy rains flood camps sheltering displaced Palestinians
the United Nations General Assembly in 1949, is tasked to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to Palestinian refugees registered in the agency’s operational areas until a just and lasting solution to their plight is found.
GAZA CITY, Palestine – Heavy rains in the Gaza Strip have exacerbated the suffering of hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians in tents and shelter centers.
On Sunday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani condemned Israel’s accusations against UNRWA employees.
The water flooded thousands of camps and submerged the residents’ belongings, leaving them without blankets and warm clothes.
“The accusations hurled by Israel against some of the UNRWA staff members are another malicious act in completion of Israel’s inhumane actions against Palestinians,” he was quoted in a statement published on the Ministry’s website as saying.
Palestinian Civil Defense spokesman Mahmoud Basal said heavy rains had inundated many low-lying areas in Gaza.
Gaza, Jan 28 (PNA)
“We received more than a thousand warnings about flooded tents and homes in various governorates of
Gaza,” he added. “What hinders the work of civil defense crew is the lack of the necessary amount of fuel to operate rainwater pumps and move rescue vehicles to flooded areas,” the spokesman said. He feared that with water standing in the tents, diseases are likely to spread. Hosni Muhanna, coordinator of the Union of Gaza Strip Municipalities, said rainwater mixed with sewage was overflowing the Sheikh Radwan and Abu Rashid ponds, north of Gaza City. (Anadolu)
FLOODED AND DISPLACED. Heavy rains flood camps of displaced Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on Friday (Jan. 26, 2024). Officials said water standing in the tents, diseases are likely to spread. (Anadolu) Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) Philippe Lazzarini speaks at a press conference in Amman, Jordan, on Nov. 14, 2022. (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua/IANS)
Israeli army kills over 350 in Gaza’s Khan Younis during past 48 hrs: Hamas Gaza, Jan 29 (IANS)
The Hamas-run government in Gaza said in a statement that the Israeli army killed at least 350 Palestinians in the past 48 hours in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. Medical teams were unable to reach dozens of bodies scattered on the streets, the statement added on Sunday, noting that local residents had to bury the dead in the courtyard of the city’s Nasser Hospital as they could not take them to the Khan Younis
cemetery, Xinhua news agency reported. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Sunday that Nasser Hospital has been filled with medical waste due to a blockade by the Israeli army, noting that at least 7,000 wounded and sick people in the enclave are in urgent need of life-saving treatment. The Palestine Red Crescent Society warned in a statement about the depletion of the
oxygen supply at Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis amid the ongoing siege by Israeli forces, which has made it difficult for medical teams at the hospital to perform surgical operations. Since its onset on October 7, 2023, the months-long deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a Palestinian death toll of 26,422 in Gaza, with the number of injuries rising to 65,087, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry on Sunday.
Iraqi Shia militia claims attacks on 3 US bases in Syria, naval facility in Israel Baghdad, Jan 29 (IANS)
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an Iraqi Shia militia, has claimed the responsibility for drone attacks on three US bases in Syria and a naval facility in Israel. The group said on Sunday in an online statement that its fighters launched explosive-laden drones on three US military bases in Syria, including the al-Shaddadi base, the al-Tanf base, and the Rukban camp near Syria's borders with Iraq and Jordan, Xinhua news agency reported. It added that it launched a fourth drone strike on the Zevulun naval facility near the port city of Haifa in Israel. The group said the attacks were part of a series of retaliatory measures against the US forces amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, the US Central
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Command said in a statement that three US troops were killed and dozens more injured in a drone attack on a US base in northeastern Jordan, near the Syrian border. Jordanian Minister of Government Communications Muhannad Mubaidin on Sunday also confirmed to Jordan's state-run Al Mamlaka TV that an attack had targetted the al-Tanf base in southeastern Syria, affirming that no attack targeting US forces occurred on the country's soil. It is not clear yet whether the drone attack is the same that the group carried out near Syria's borders with Iraq and Jordan. US President Joe Biden vowed on Sunday in a statement to hold accountable those responsible for the killing of three US service members and cast blame on Iran-backed militant groups.
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A Revolutionary Leap in Sustainable Handcrafted Heirloom Fashion New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANSlife)
Asha Gautam, a venerable name in the world of handcrafted heirloom clothing, proudly announces the debut of their latest venture – the Kadam Project. This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant stride in the revitalization of timeless, handcrafted fashion, spanning sarees, bridal couture, and festive attire. The Kadam Project underscores Gautam’s steadfast commitment to sustainability, environmental consciousness, and a circular design process.
of crafting new garments; it extends to the judicious reuse of existing pieces for future consumption,” remarks Gautam Gupta, Creative Head at Asha Gautam. The craftsmanship involved in creating handmade pieces for the Kadam Project spans from two months to a year, showcasing the dedication and artistry that goes into each creation. Asha Gautam encourages the utilization of existing treasures rather than solely seeking new additions, advocating for the recycling and upcycling of traditional Indian textiles.
With a rich 25-year history in the industry, Asha Gautam Over the 25-year journey, brings a wealth of expertise in Gautam has been committed reimagining classic pieces for to repurposing numerous their discerning clientele. The traditional Indian textiles, brand, supported by a team including Banarasi, Paithani, of skilled artisans, aims to and Kanjeevaram weaves, broaden its impact on a wider Bandhani techniques, audience by infusing new Kalamkari hand-painted life into the allure of vintage pieces, as well as Zardosi and fashion while championing Convent embroidered fabrics. principles of recycling and upcycling. The Kadam Project breathes new life into vintage textiles, “In the current landscape, some dating back four to where concerns about climate five decades or more. Real change take precedence, zari threads in silver or gold, Kadam stands as a beacon which may lose their sheen of responsible fashion, over time, are meticulously resonating with the imperative refurbished by skilled artifor a paradigm shift in sans, restoring their original consumer behavior. Our luster. The revitalized zari objective transcends merely is seamlessly integrated into slowing down the process new bases, with motifs, jal,
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borders, and pallu artfully applied based on the client’s preferences.
To enhance these upcycled creations, sophisticated embroidery techniques are employed, incorporating artwork from the original saree. Luxurious fabrics such as organza, tissue, chiffon, and alternative weaves like kota are introduced, transforming the overall aesthetic of the new pieces. Gautam’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the creation of clothing. Leftover materials find new life as potlis and tassels, contributing to the overall sustainability of the process. However, the intricacies of recycling and upcycling necessitate a careful evaluation of the original fabric’s strength before initiation. Strengthening measures, including fabric fusion, are at times implemented to ensure the enduring quality of the final product. The Project marks a significant milestone in Asha Gautam’s journey, reinforcing their position as pioneers in sustainable, handcrafted heirloom fashion. IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in
‘Shark Tank India 3’: TURMS’ intelligent apparel cracks Rs 1.2 cr deal with Inshorts CEO Azhar New Delhi, Dec 13 (IANSlife)
An intelligent apparel brand ‘TURMS’, which creates clothing that boasts anti-stain, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-odour features has sealed a deal of Rs 1.2 crore in the entrepreneurial reality show ‘Shark Tank India’ season three. The spotlight of TURMS’ pitch was on its one-ofits-kind collection, which includes 30-day no-wash jeans, fearless white cotton shirts, AC cool tech T-shirts, and seven-day no-smell socks, among others.
they won’t be able to run this company anymore.” Iqubal asked him to tell more about the time and the scene when he acquired the company. Peyush Bansal, the co-founder and CEO of Lenskart revealed that he had earlier invested in this company. He said: “The company is at loss.” Replying to Peyush, Surendra further shared details about purchasing the brand, and said: “Covid time was very tough, but their intentions were not bad.”
Adding star power to the pitch, the brand counts Indian cricketer MS Dhoni among its customers.
He shared that the acquisition deal was Rs 1.5 crores cash, plus 12.5 percent equity in the new company.
Surendra Singh Rajpurohit, who was once a TURMS customer, took a bold step in 2022 by acquiring the company from its six co-founders.
Now, Surendra stepped into the tank with a remarkable pitch aimed at transforming the world of fashion. He asked for Rs 1.2 crore for a two percent equity.
Azhar Iqubal, the co-founder, and CEO of Inshorts said to him: “Your products are very interesting.”
Anupam offered him Rs 1.2 crore for four percent equity, plus two percent royalty until Rs 1.8 crore is recouped.
Surendra further shared that Azhar made a final deal with under his leadership, the apparel brand has flourished, Surendra at Rs 1.2 crores for selling a remarkable four lakh four percent equity. apparel units to date. Talking about his experience in ‘Shark Tank India 3’, He said that earlier he was Surender said: “The sharks in the automotive industry, and had spent 10 years in the were genuinely impressed by the remarkable turnaround we Middle East. have achieved since acquiring the company, and its current Aman Gupta, co-founder and CMO, BOAT then began success speaks volumes. It was incredibly encouraging the testing of Surendra’s to receive positive feedback products. from all the sharks as we concluded the pitch.” After Aman’s testing, Anupam Mittal, CEO of the “Their kind words are Shaadi.com said: “You will close the markets of the soap extremely motivating, and I sincerely hope that we can industries.” continue moving forward by exploring new and innovative Aman tested the ‘TURMS’ ventures. Shark Tank India, as products and said: “Baat to a platform, not only provided sahi hai, kuch to hai.” a spotlight for our innovative garments but also established Surendra went on to say, “Before Covid this company crucial connections with our target audience,” he added. was doing a very good business. After Covid its founders (Rameshwar, Rohit ‘Shark Tank India 3’ streams on Sony LIV. and other four...) thought
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OUR TAKE AI or the real deal! Brisbane, February 1, 2024
Students, teaachers, employees, or employers the world over are and have been in this dilemma whether one should use the AI or continue without it and stick to the real deal. Technological advancement brings in many challenges and one of it currently is the use of AI. On one hand it is a boon when it comes to using AI for mechanics, and electronic development. But when it comes to human interactions and manipulations it could be a danger. In the Literature sector many librarians are worried their job will become obsolete. As AI could take over the sorting, stacking, labeling, even writing books and articles. In the cultural journey Australia has already succunbed to AI . The AI has reached the Kitchens churning out dishes at the spur of the moment. AI women have been appointed to work and work hard. AI today has infiltrated in various sectors including the arts, media and the culinary art. Image manipulations with AI is at finger tips of the common man. The manipulations of images with A1 and one without AI sometimes is very difficult to recognise. The term ‘digital forgery’ means any intimate visual depiction of an identifiable individual created through the use of software, machine learning, artificial intelligence, or any other computer-generated or technological means, including by adapting, modifying, manipulating, or altering an authentic visual depiction, to appear to a reasonable person to be indistinguishable from an authentic visual depiction of the individual. These days Adobe gives a vast range of generative AI tools which allows one to manipulate the bodies of ordinary people to look like celebrities. A recent case in Melbourne with Ms. Georgia Purcell, Victorian Animal Justice Party MP, when called on TV by Nine News showed an image of her where her white dress was swapped with a top exposing her midriff. This obviously upset her and she posted on X saying that in the inage her boobs were enlarged and her dress was swapped. The Nine News in their defense said www.mccq.org.au
that the Adobe Photoshop’s Generative Expand tool has made her image accidently bigger. An automated action by the software. This tool allows the users to make the image bigger or fit in where the software makes assumptions of the proportions and generates an image that best fits and filled out with the new materials. If enough information is not fed into the system for the software to create the image it looks for the stock images to generate the current image. Most of the stock images are based on biases and images of commonly viewed materials. Protection in such cases has thus become the top priority. Ms Purcell does not buy the argument of Nine blaming it on adobe photoshop, however is ready to move on. Adobe on the other hand says that the edits to the images in question “should have required human intervention and approval” permissions often are generated by humans. This is how such images have often gone undebated and unaccounted for. In the past the AI-generated explicit images of Taylor Swift also created massive debate among the policy makers in US. The US lawmakers now have proposed a bill that would let victims sue over digitally faked sexual images. But how much would that help?
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Meta purged over 26mn bad pieces of content on FB, Insta in India in Dec 2023 New Delhi, Feb 1 (IANSlife)
Meta said that it took down over 19.8 million pieces of content across 13 policies for Facebook and over 6.2 million pieces of content across 12 policies for Instagram in India in December 2023. Between December 1-31, Facebook received 44,332 reports through the Indian grievance mechanism, and said that it provided tools for users to resolve their issues in 33,072 cases. These include pre-established channels to report content for specific violations, self-remediation flows where they can download their data, avenues to address account hacked issues, etc, Meta said in its monthly report in compliance with the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media
Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. “Of the other 11,260 reports where specialised review was needed, we reviewed content as per our policies, and took action on 6,578 reports in total. The remaining 4,682 reports were reviewed but may not have been actioned,” Meta added. On Instagram, the company received 19,750 reports through the Indian grievance mechanism. “Of these, we provided tools for users to resolve their issues in 9,555 cases,” it said. Of the other 10,195 reports where specialised review was needed, Meta reviewed content and took action on 6,028 reports in total. The remaining 4,167 reports were reviewed but may not have
been actioned. Under the new IT Rules 2021, big digital and social media platforms, with more than 5 million users, have to publish monthly compliance reports. “We measure the number of pieces of content (such as posts, photos, videos or comments) we take action on for going against our standards. Taking action could include removing a piece of content from Facebook or Instagram or covering photos or videos that may be disturbing to some audiences with a warning,” said Meta. In the month of November, Meta took down over 18.3 million pieces of content across 13 policies for Facebook and over 4.7 million pieces of content across 12 policies for Instagram.
The digital manipulations of the software and the AI generative tools have gone far and beyond human’s ability to manipulate the images. The AI tools for face recognition now is able to make the difference between a dark skin and a light skin. When used at the policing levels at airports or in criminal cases, it is obvious that biases will occur. Racialisation may be facilitated.
AI generated Idol of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya
The federal Government in Australia thus has introduced a plan to respond to this rapid rise of AI technology. In the near future hard rules may be imposed on these generative tools which have the potential for danger, discrimination and biases.
The Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi involved himself and mandated every citizen of India in the creation of this temple following the mission “Ram to Rashtra”. Eminent Architects were deployed in this mission including artists and artisans from all over the nation. Resources, materials were well thought out and brought in from various parts of India.The whole country was mobilised towards this mission.
No matter what, the time has come to take stern actions on the use of such tools and protection to vicitms of such AI manipulations. Article written by Amrita Deshpande (Associate Editor. MCCQ and New Media Artist)
Feb 1, 2024 (From MCCQ Newsdesk) The Ram Temple in Ayodhya is a master piece Architectural spectacular along with the artistic sculptural creative extravaganz that transforms one into the era of the gods and goddssses.
The temple also marked the technological advancement of the country. One spetacle that dazzled all was the idol of Ram after the concercation ceremony was smiling at devotees, turning his eyes watching everyone and smiling. This AI generated image of Ram Lalla sent a fervor among the masses making Ram Lalla come back to life actually smiling at the devotees. . This not only proved the ability of Indian computer science engineers displaying their talents making the idol to virtually come alive but also made the whole of India spiritually rise above the domestic differences and embrace the moment as though it was divine. The Artificial Intelligence definitely converted India into a global spiritual power house marked by the technological advancement and artistic excellence.
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SPORTS
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Jannik Sinner wins 2024 Australian Open IOC to evaluate Wushu as Olympic sport after Dakar 2026 men’s championship Ankara, Jan 29 (PNA)
ANKARA – Italy’s Jannik Sinner on Sunday won the 2024 Australian Open men’s singles, his very first Grand Slam title. Sinner, the world No. 4, came back against Russian third seed Daniil Medvedev, winning the final in Melbourne with 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 sets as the showdown at Rod
Laver Arena lasted for three hours and 44 minutes.
During the nail-biting final, Medvedev made 57 unforced errors. In the semis, Sinner on Friday eliminated 10-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic from Serbia to play his first major final. The 22-year-old Sinner
became the first Italian to secure an Australian Open singles title.
“It is a special victory, an incredible tournament, two fantastic weeks: I felt at home here,” Sinner said while receiving the trophy. Medvedev offered his congratulations to the champion and said the victory was “deserved”. (Anadolu)
Gangneung (South Korea) Jan 30 (IANS)
International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach stated that the international recognition and participation of Wushu will play a crucial role in determining its future as an official sport in the Olympic Games.
“We are pleased to include Wushu in the official program of Dakar 2026,” Bach stated. “It is highly valued by Senegal, the host country of the Youth Olympic Games, and there is considerable excitement surrounding it.”
Wushu, also known as martial arts, has been included as a medal sport in the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games, which is often regarded as a key indicator for the introduction of new sports into the Olympics.
“The Olympic debut of Wushu is anticipated in two years,” the IOC president announced.
During the 2014 Youth Olympics in Nanjing, organizers held a Wushu competition as part of a cultural and educational program.
GRAND SLAM. Jannik Sinner of Italy kisses the trophy after defeating Daniil Medvedev during Men's Singles Final match in the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 28, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. It is his very first Grand Slam title. (Anadolu)
Bach mentioned that Wushu, similar to climbing and breaking, must undergo testing in a “laboratory” environment. Both climbing and breaking were added to the Olympic Games following successful trials at previous Youth Olympic Games, Xinhua reports.
Bach noted that the traditional Chinese sport would have a solid foundation for evaluation after its Olympic debut in Dakar. “Following its debut, we must wait and observe the level of international recognition and participation, as well as the competition’s overall performance,” he said. “After this analysis, we will be in a position to make a decision regarding Wushu’s inclusion in the Olympic program in the future,” Bach concluded.
U19 Men’s World Cup: Stage set for the crucial Super Six round Johannesburg, Jan 29 (IANS)
The top three teams from each of the original four groups in the U19 Men’s CWC have moved to the next stage of the competition -– the Super Six -- after an exciting round of preliminary group matches in South Africa. The Super Six will involve the top three sides from each of the four round-robin groups, with teams progressing from Groups A and D comprising one Group, and those from B and C the other. Crucially, each team carries forward the points and Net Run Rate (NRR) they earned against fellow Super Six qualifying teams. The six teams to make it from Groups A and D are India, Bangladesh, Ireland, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Nepal. South Africa, England, West Indies, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe progress from Groups B and C. The teams will play two matches in the Super Six stage against their opponents from the corresponding group who finished in a different www.mccq.org.au
position in their group. That means India (toppers of Group A) will face off against New Zealand (second position in Group D), and Nepal (third position in Group D). The top two sides from the two Super Six groups will then progress to the semifinal stage. The two semifinals are scheduled to be held on 6 and February 8. The final is set to take place on February 11, with all three knockout games set to take place in Benoni. It has been an entertaining tournament so far. There have been high-scoring contests as well as low-scoring thrillers, gutsy batting performances along with fiery bowling spells. Group A finished with India reaching the summit after three convincing wins in Bloemfontein. Bangladesh overcame their loss to India with back-to-back wins, while Ireland qualified as the third side, comfortably defeating the USA in their tournament opener. Group B witnessed stellar
individual and team performances across several see-saw encounters in which the three top sides finished on equal points. Hosts South Africa won two and lost one, as did England and West Indies, who all progressed ahead of fourth-placed Scotland. In Group C, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe enter the Super Six. Australia went undefeated in the group stage, despite tough fights against Namibia and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe finished second and third respectively. Group D threw up the most exciting finishes of the tournament, with two contests going down to the wire. Pakistan emerged as table-toppers, but New Zealand and Nepal battled to overcome Afghanistan in one-wicket wins to seal their spots in the Super Six. Meanwhile, the USA, Afghanistan, Namibia and Scotland – the four teams who didn’t make the second stage of the tournament – will contest in play-offs for the last four places.
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TRAVEL
Palawan ranks 4th in Tripadvisor world’s trending destinations
Palawan posts almost 90% rise in tourist arrivals in 2023
Lagoon on Miniloc Island. It should be a stop on your Island hopping tour anyway, MANILA – Palawan has but this was my favorite stop. been named the world’s Absolutely beautiful water fourth trending destination in and rock formations. Make Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ sure to take a kayak and Choice Award Best of the paddle all the way in,” the Best Destination. review read.
Manila Jan 18 By Izza Reynoso (PNA)
Manila Jan 12 By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora (PNA)
the beauty of Palawan to the world. Further to this, Palawan’s winning streak on TripAdvisor will certainly have a positive impact on its tourism industry,” she said.
“With the global recognition, the island is poised to attract a surge in visitors, providing The award places the The recognition is a testament a boost to the local economy island together with popular and reinforcing Palawan’s that Palawan is a must-visit destinations across the world, destination for global explor- position as a top-tier travel including Tokyo in Japan, ers seeking an immersive and destination,” she added. Seoul in South Korea, Halong unforgettable experience, Bay and Sapa in Vietnam, Tripadvisor’s winners were Department of Tourism Bogota in Colombia, Pattaya (DOT) Secretary Christina based on the reviews and in Thailand, Casablanca opinions collected from Frasco said. in Morroco, and Taipei in travelers and diners on its Taiwan, among others. platform over 12 months. “As Palawan continues to turn heads and warm hearts Perfect for multi-day and ex- across the globe, this latest “Travelers’ Choice Best of tended tours, Palawan offers accolade from TripAdvisor is the Best is our highest honor. a diverse travel experience to but a testament to the island’s The award takes into account tourists from sun and beach timeless allure,” Frasco said. the quality and quantity of to a relaxing nature trip in its traveler reviews and ratings, world-class heritage sites. She said the DOT would do and ranks the very best its part in ensuring Palawan’s accommodations, destinaThe Travelers’ Choice Award sustainability tourism tions, beaches, restaurants, described Palawan as a “slice development while offering and things to do in specific of heaven” teeming with “enhanced tourism experience categories and geographic exotic wildlife, quaint fishing for travelers”. areas, as rated and reviewed villages, and UNESCO World by travelers,” Tripadvisor Heritage Sites. said. “We could not be more grateful to the travel commuOne of the reviewers wrote “Travelers’ Choice Best of nity for placing Palawan at that El Nido is also among the forefront of global travel the Best award winners are the must-visit places on the trends. This singular achieve- among the top 1% of listings island. ment motivates us to maintain on Tripadvisor,” it added. (PNA) our commitment to sustain“Don’t miss visiting the Small able tourism and showcase
www.mccq.org.au
PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan – The tourism sector in this province posted significant gains in 2023, with an almost 90 percent increase in tourist arrivals compared to the previous year. In its latest report, the Provincial Tourism Promotions and Development Office (PTPDO) disclosed that a total of 1,527,159 tourists visited Palawan last year, which is markedly higher than the 814,621 visitors recorded in 2022. Maribel Buñi, head of the Provincial Tourism Promotions and Development Office (PTPDO), said in a press briefing on Thursday that of the total number of visitors, 873,592 were Filipinos and 653,567 were foreign travelers. Palawan’s growing stature as a global tourist destination has correspondingly boosted the sector’s income, with earnings escalating to PHP57.2 billion in 2023, a substantial increase from PHP30.5 billion in 2022, according to a PTPDO survey. “In general, 2023 was a productive year for the province’s tourism industry. But this does not mean that those in the industry have to
be complacent," she said.
El Nido led the municipalities in Palawan with the highest number of tourists, followed closely by Coron. San Vicente ranked third in attracting visitors, with Brooke's Point and Linapacan coming in fourth and fifth, respectively, Buñi said. The top five foreign markets for the province’s tourism industry were the United States, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Spain. Tourism is a key focus for the provincial government under the leadership of Governor Dennis Socrates, and is considered as a major driver of economic growth, she noted. Buñi pointed out that while 2023 would be recorded as a significant success for the tourism sector, local stakeholders still need to enhance and expand their offerings, implement government policies effectively, and employ more impactful marketing strategies. "Continuous product development, policy implementation, promotions, and marketing must be made to ensure not just touristic experience for travelers but also return visits,” she said. (PNA)
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Bob Odenkirk stunned to discover he’s related to King Charles
Los Angeles, Jan 30 (IANS)
Actor-comedian Bob Odenkirk was left gobsmacked after his family line was confirmed to be linked to that of King Charles III.
roots back five generations to Friedrich Carl Steinholz, who was the actor’s fifth great grandfather born in Plon, Germany in 1755.
The ‘Better Call Saul’ star appeared on the US genealogy series ‘Finding Your Roots’ when he was told of the shocking discovery, reports Mirror.co.uk.
As per Mirror.co.uk, the findings showed how Steinholz’s mother conceived him out of wedlock with the Duke of Plon, who was in fact tied to other royal families across Europe thanks to intermarriage.
The revelation awkwardly came after the American insisted he was “not a monarchist”. The show’s host Henry Louis Gates Jr, made the connection after being able to trace Odenkirk’s family
Prior to the reveal, Odenkirk said on the show: “I’m an American. I’m not a monarchist. I don’t believe in that. You know, I feel like it’s a little twisted. I understand why society built itself around
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monarchs and leaders, and they passed them down through generations. I understand that goes through every society, every civilisation. But I think that we’ve gotten to a better place with democracy and we should keep going down that road.” That’s when Gates jumped in to give him the huge surprise that he was 11th cousins with Charles, which led to Odenkirk jokingly changing his tune immediately. He laughed: “Well maybe I’ll change my mind on that.” The pair got into a jovial back and forth, with Gates “criticising” Odenkirk for “trashing” his newfound family.
Sunny Leone: I love to cook and bake
Britney Spears apologises to Justin Timberlake as he relaunches career after her memoir
Los Angeles, Jan 30 (IANS)
Pop icon Britney Spears has apologised to Justin Timberlake for the claims she made in her book and said she loves her ex-boyfriend’s new music. The 42-year-old singer took to Instagram to say she is “deeply sorry” if she offended any of the people she cares about in her bombshell memoir ‘The Woman In Me’, reports Mirror.co.uk. In the book, Britney accused Justin - whom she dated from 1999 until 2002 - of forcing her to get an abortion and also claimed he cheated on her multiple times. She wrote: “I loved Justin so much. I always expected us to have a family together one day. He said we weren’t ready to have a baby in our lives, that we were way too young.” As per Mirror.co.uk, she also wrote he made her look like a “harlot who’d broken the heart of America’s golden boy” when they broke up.
But on Sunday, Britney posted a clip of Justin from his recent appearance on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ to apologise for the claims and also praise Justin’s two new songs, ‘Selfish’ and ‘Sanctified’. Britney wrote: “I wanna apologise for some of the things I wrote about in my book. If I offended any of the people I genuinely care about I am deeply sorry.” She added: “I also wanted to say I am in love with Justin Timberlake’s new song ‘Selfish’. It is soo good and how come every time I see Justin and Jimmy together I laugh so hard ??? Ps ‘Sanctified’ is wow too.” Earlier this month, Justin appeared to have deleted or archived every single post from his account, and only started posting again two weeks ago. The 42-year-old had been using the social media platform up until the end of 2023, with his wife Jessica Biel also sharing posts of them to her own account.
Actress Margot Robbie is “not sad” about her lack of Oscar nomination Los Angeles, Feb 1 (IANS)
Noida, Jan 30 (IANS)
Even though she’s in an industry where eating right matters, actress Sunny Leone said she is a “foodie” and added that she loves to cook and bake. “I love to cook and bake. Baking is my forte. So anything that I can put together and put in an oven and bake is something that I enjoy,” Sunny told IANS.
of baking whether it’s the breads, crusts or pizza dough or different types of desserts… the last thing I made was spinach spanakopita. I also make pizza dough from home.” Sunny added: “Then creating different things for my kids to eat and watching them eat is the best.”
The actress, who has turned restaurateur, said that she enjoys the process of baking.
Sunny is a different kind of a foodie. She loves to try different flavours.
She said: “I enjoy the process
The actress said: “Yes, I am a
www.mccq.org.au
foodie but I believe there are two different types of foodies. There’s one who just eat, eat and eat then there are foodies who really enjoy the idea of flavours of foods.” She added: “So for me, I might not finish an entire plate but I would want to try different foods and different flavours and how those different combinations taste great. That’s the type of foodie that I am. I really would like to eat an entire pizza by myself.”
Actress Margot Robbie is “not sad” about her lack of Oscar nomination for ‘Barbie’. The 33-year-old actress starred as the iconic Mattel doll alongside Ryan Gosling as her boyfriend Ken in Greta Gerwig’s summer blockbuster. While her co-star received a nod for Best Supporting Actor and the movie is up for Best Picture at the upcoming Academy Awards, both she and the film’s director missed out on a nomination, reports Female First UK.
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True-crime docu series to unravel Sheena Bora murder case
Mumbai, Jan 29 (IANS)
The upcoming true-crime documentary series titled ‘The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth’, will unravel the infamous case of Indrani Mukerjea about allegedly murdering her 25-year old daughter Sheena Bora. Indrani, who was an accomplished media executive and socialite, was married to media baron Peter Mukerjea. In 2015, she was arrested for murdering Sheena Bora. The case sent shockwaves across the nation. The documentary features Indrani Mukerjea, her children - Vidhie Mukherjea and Mikhail Bora, veteran journalists, and lawyers spotlighting dysfunctional family dynamics and complex motivations. It is helmed by Shaana Levy and Uraaz Bahl, and also reveals for the first-time ever unsettling call
recordings between Indrani, Peter, and Rahul Mukerjea and unseen images of the family. It explores sensational family secrets, complicated relationships, buried connections and the possibility of millions of dollars at stake.
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Ed Sheeran munches on octopus during lavish night out in Japan Los Angeles, Jan 30 (IANS)
Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran surprised some of his fans when he shared a video of himself dining out across Osaka in Japan, where he devoured an octopus.
he reviewed the dishes he ate. He shared the footage via Instagram, and captioned the highlights video writing: “Eating octopus balls in Osaka”.
The 32-year-old chart-topping star is currently touring Asia as part of his ongoing Mathematics Tour - which has been rumbling around the world since 2022, reports Mirror.co.uk.
Footage showed the singer testing out the dish, then declaring: “It’s alright… Don’t know if I’d order it again.”
Over the weekend, the singer delighted fans when he performed in the Japanese city Osaka - and during his downtime in the city, he raced around several eateries to enjoy different foods and drinks. Fortunately, Ed recorded his culinary journey and cut together a highlights reel of his night out in the city where
However, some fans were fooled into thinking he was eating the sexual organs of cephalopods rather than simple crispy dumplings that include octopus meat. As per Mirror.co.uk, Pop brothers Jedward were among those baffled by Ed’s statement - and reacted to his post. The former X Factor contestants wrote in the comment section of the posting: “Never knew they had balls what an
educational video to all.” But another follower swiftly corrected the pair, writing: “LMAO it’s a spherical-shaped snack with a wheat-flour batter filled with diced octopus and other ingredients, not their actual ‘balls’,” alongside a crying-with-laughter emoji. The footage then showed Ed enjoying okonomiyaki which included cabbage, prawns, eggs and spices as ingredients - in another restaurant. Enjoying the dish, Ed enthused: “This is good. I love a bit of cabbage.” Sharing his general thoughts on Japanese food, he told the camera: “I love, obviously, sushi nagiri… soba noodles, big fan of that. Coco ichibanya curry… that’s f****** good.”
After her arrest, Indrani was sent to judicial custody at a women’s-only prison in Byculla Jail, Mumbai. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took over the case and filed charges against Indrani under the Indian Penal Code Sections 302 (murder), 201 (causing disappearance of evidence), 34 (criminal conspiracy), 420 (cheating and forgery), 364 (kidnapping) 120-B (conspiracy). The series is slated to drop on Netflix on February 23.
‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ director explains how Buddhism spread to Far East Mumbai, Jan 28 (IANS)
Raghav Jairath, who has directed the recently released documentary ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’, has shared that the show answers questions with regard to the reason behind the formation of Buddha relics and how they became a gateway to the spread of Buddhism. He also said that the third instalment of the documentary was in the works in parallel while the second instalment, ‘Secrets of the Kohinoor’ was being shot. He ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ focuses on the ancient legends surrounding the final days of Gautama Buddha and relics that surround the very centre of Buddhism. www.mccq.org.au
Talking about the show, Raghav told IANS: “The subject of ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ was with us even before ‘Secrets of the Kohinoor’. We were researching on this subject but at that time, the research wasn’t deep enough to weave a story. After the release of ‘Secrets of the Kohinoor’, we dug deeper into the subject.” He further mentioned that while everybody knows about Buddha and his teachings, nobody knows about his last days and the formation of the relics.” He continued: “Why did he want the relics to be formed? Why did he want the relics to be connected to the people
when he didn’t believe in the concept of religion or in idol worship? These thoughts intrigued us. Another thing is that Buddha mostly travelled between the modern day Bihar, some parts of UP and the borders of Odisha, these were his main areas.” “He never moved to China or Japan. Hence, these relics became important as they served as a door to a different world and resulted in the spread of his teachings,” he added. Created by Neeraj Pandey of Friday Storytellers and hosted by Manoj Bajpayee, ‘Secrets of the Buddha Relics’ is available on discovery+ and will drop on February 26, 2024 on Discovery Channel.
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