text
stringlengths 102
112k
| url
stringlengths 37
240
| crawl_date
timestamp[us, tz=UTC]date 2024-01-04 00:15:18
2024-01-31 23:10:45
| exclusion_reason
stringclasses 1
value |
|---|---|---|---|
BANGKOK – An eighth-grader, described as a boy with special needs, allegedly stabbed his classmate to death on the morning of Jan 29 over reported bullying, police and school officials said.
The stabbing incident at the Nak Nava Upatham School on Soi Patanakarn 26 took place at 8.30am, just after the morning assembly, school staff said.
All classes were cancelled as parents rushed to take their children home after learning about the stabbing on TV news.
The Klong Tan Police Station received a report on the fatal stabbing at 8.40am.
Friends of the victim and the attacker told reporters that they saw the victim teasing the boy as they were entering their classroom on the second floor after singing the national anthem at the morning assembly.
The alleged attacker, who is normally very quiet, pulled out his fruit knife and stabbed the neck of the victim.
The injured boy then ran downstairs to try and escape, but the attacker rushed after him and again stabbed him on the right side of his neck, causing the victim to fall to the floor in the basketball stadium.
School staff rushed to tend to the victim and tried to keep him awake, while others overpowered the attacker.
Staff members said the boy with special needs was mostly quiet and his classmates often teased him. They also said that the victim was not a close friend of the attacker and that they were still in the dark about what was behind the quarrel.
Poh Tech Tung Foundation rescue staff arrived at the scene but failed to resuscitate the victim. The boy was then rushed to Vibharam General Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The incident prompted Pol Maj-General Witthawat Chinkham, commander of Metropolitan Police Division 5, to rush to the scene to personally oversee the investigation.
The alleged attacker was then taken to Klong Tan Police Station for interrogation in the presence of his parents and social workers from the Social Development and Human Security Ministry.
Meanwhile, Amarin TV reported that some parents knew that the alleged attacker was a boy with special needs and had warned their children not to tease or bully him. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/special-needs-student-in-thailand-allegedly-stabs-classmate-to-death-over-bullying
| 2024-01-30T08:40:40Z
|
blocked_url
|
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol blocked on Tuesday a bill to launch a new probe into a Halloween crowd crush that killed 159 people in Seoul's Itaewon district in 2022, in a move slammed by the opposition and relatives of the victims.
Yoon's veto of a probe with an independent panel came after the prime minister described the opposition-backed bill as politicised and potentially in breach of the constitution.
"The pain from the disaster cannot be used as a tool to justify political strife and a possibility of unconstitutionality," Prime Minister Han Duck-soo told a cabinet meeting, denying an earlier investigation by police and prosecutors was flawed.
The move to block the bill has been criticised by relatives of the victims and opposition party officials who have long argued the government's handling of the disaster had been inadequate.
Park Young-soo, a mother who lost her son in the crowd crush, accused the government of being "petty" by blocking the inquiry and offering financial compensation instead.
"That's not what we have been fighting for more than a year for," Park told Reuters. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/skoreas-yoon-blocks-new-probe-of-2022-halloween-crowd-crush
| 2024-01-30T08:40:50Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – Shanghai officials have Singapore in their sights as China’s financial capital seeks more foreign investments amid a broader economic slowdown in the country, and as the city’s own economy underperforms.
The officials mounted an investment promotion event here on Jan 29, touting Shanghai as an attractive destination to an audience of over 140 people, including representatives from Singapore businesses and professional bodies.
Among Shanghai’s selling points are its affluent consumers, its connectivity and a slew of urban renewal projects that present opportunities for developers and potential tenants alike, said the city’s officials.
And there continue to be efforts to improve Shanghai’s investment environment and infrastructure, and to open it up more to promote reform and growth, said Madam Zhu Yi, deputy director-general of the city’s commerce commission.
The investment promotion event, held at the Hilton Singapore Orchard hotel, was organised by the Shanghai Commerce Commission and the Pudong New Area government, co-organised by the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI), and supported by Enterprise Singapore.
The Chinese city has also made similar pitches in Hong Kong, London and Sao Paulo.
The event came as Shanghai failed to meet its economic growth target in 2023 – the second consecutive year that it fell short on this count. The city’s mayor said at a municipal parliamentary session last week that Shanghai’s gross domestic product grew 5 per cent in 2023, missing its target of 5.5 per cent.
Part of the financial hub’s sales pitch was for Singapore entities to invest in urban renewal projects across the city, designed to inject fresh life into otherwise dated locales.
One such project is the revitalisation of a historic residential complex with Shanghai-style lane houses – known as Zhang Garden – in the city’s commercial district. It is home to a range of luxury brands, and will also feature boutique hotels, apartments and creative office spaces when completed, officials said as they called for interested fashion and lifestyle brands to set up shop there.
Singapore companies can also benefit from Shanghai’s recent designation as a pilot zone for “Silk Road e-commerce cooperation”, officials said.
Companies can participate in dialogues and business-matching activities for small and medium-sized enterprises, get involved in planned joint research institutes and learn from best practices in the industry, they added.
Singapore is one of the most important sources of foreign investment for Shanghai, said Madam Zhu.
Over 4,000 Singapore companies have had a presence in the Chinese city – in the last three years alone, Shanghai saw over 890 newly-established companies from the Republic, with investments totalling more than US$6 billion (S$8 billion), she added.
Meanwhile, there were over 400 Shanghai companies in Singapore as at end-2022, with a total investment of over US$7 billion, according to figures from Enterprise Singapore.
Under the Singapore-Shanghai Comprehensive Cooperation Council, Enterprise Singapore and the Shanghai Commerce Commission have jointly held roundtable sessions to help Singapore companies understand Shanghai’s development and its policies, and address operational challenges that they encounter, said Ms Tan Sock Joo, a deputy director at the statutory board.
Mr Charles Ho, a core council member of SCCCI, said the chamber, supported by Enterprise Singapore, has also established a Singapore Enterprise Centre in Shanghai to help businesses from the Republic expand into the Chinese market.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/business/shanghai-eyes-singapore-as-it-chases-foreign-investments-amid-slowing-economy
| 2024-01-30T08:41:01Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE - The Online Criminal Harms Act (Ocha) will take effect on Feb 1, and will allow the Government to remove criminal content online.
The Act, which was passed in Parliament on July 5, 2023, seeks to tackle the evolving criminal harms online and makes special provisions for scams and malicious cyber activities.
Under Ocha, the Government can issue directions and orders, which will restrict and limit the exposure of Singapore users to criminal activities on online platforms.
Directions can be issued to any online service provider, entity or individual, as long as there is reasonable suspicion that an online activity is linked to a specified offence.
Examples of specified offences include those relating to terrorism and internal security, racial and religious harmony, drugs, violence and scams.
The threshold is lower for scams, allowing directions to be issued even if there is only suspicion that certain online activities are in preparation of a scam.
On Jan 30, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said this was so that scams can be proactively disrupted, even before the public falls prey to them.
A total of 22,339 scam cases were reported in the first half of 2023, compared with 13,576 cases in the same period in 2022.
Between January 2020 and June 2023, victims in Singapore lost about $2 billion to scams.
Five types of directions can be issued under Ocha:
- A Stop Communication direction requires the recipient, which can be an individual or an entity, to stop communicating the specified online content to people in Singapore.
- A Disabling direction requires online service providers to disable specified content, such as a post or a page, on their service from being viewed in Singapore.
- An Account Restriction direction requires online service providers to stop an account on their platform from communicating in Singapore and interacting with people in Singapore.
- An Access Blocking direction requires Internet service providers to block access to an online location such as a web domain from being viewed here.
- An App Removal Direction requires app stores to remove an app from its Singapore shopfront to stop further downloads of the app by people here.
For a start, Ocha directions will be issued against scam websites and egregious online activities, said MHA, as it develops the necessary systems for it to issue directions for other specified offences.
Examples of egregious offences include those related to threat of death and serious hurt, and threat to law and order.
If the directions are not complied with, an Ocha order can then be issued to restrict access to the service or part of the service to limit the further exposure of persons in Singapore to the criminal activity.
MHA said the Ocha orders operate alongside other measures the Government can take for the non-compliance of directions, and does not replace measures such as prosecution.
Those who receive an Ocha direction can appeal to a designated officer for it to be reconsidered, while those who receive an Ocha order can appeal to the competent authority.
If these applications are unsuccessful, the appellant can then appeal to a reviewing tribunal comprising a district judge or magistrate appointed by the President on the advice of the Cabinet.
Under Ocha, the Government can require information to administer the Act and facilitate investigations and criminal proceedings.
Police officers and enforcement officers can request online service providers or owners of online locations to provide relevant information to facilitate investigations and criminal proceedings when it is suspected a specified offence has been committed.
These powers also apply to entities based overseas and to information stored overseas.
MHA said the Act will introduce codes of practice and directives to strengthen partnerships with online services to counter scams and malicious cyber activities, but this will come into force at a later date.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/online-criminal-harms-act-to-kick-in-from-feb-1-with-special-provisions-for-scams
| 2024-01-30T08:41:11Z
|
blocked_url
|
YAMOUSSOUKRO - Ivory Coast have put the humiliation of losing to tiny Equatorial Guinea in the Africa Cup of Nations group stage behind them and are gunning for glory after eliminating holders Senegal in the last 16 on Monday.
The hosts' 4-0 loss to Equatorial Guinea in their final group game left them waiting three days before it was confirmed they had done enough to slip into the knockout stages as the last of the four best third-placed finishers.
During that agonising wait, the Ivorian federation fired 70-year-old coach Jean-Louis Gasset and put his assistant Emerse Fae in charge.
“The last days were tough for us,” said striker Sebastian Haller, whose ankle injury kept him off the pitch until he came on as a second-half substitute on Monday.
The Ivorians came back after conceding in the fourth minute to hold Senegal to a 1-1 draw before winning in a shootout.
“We have opened the door and given ourselves a chance," the Borussia Dortmund striker said. "We can forget now about what happened in the group stage.”
Midfielder Seko Fofana said it had been hard to see the reaction following their defeat to Equatorial Guinea.
"It was difficult to see the people crying after that loss but we’ve made up for that now and so we’re all very happy,” he added.
“We had a strategy in place and the changes came at the right time. The new coach worked very well,” he added of Fae, who has no previous experience as a senior coach.
Fae had dropped influential midfielder Franck Kessie but brought him on in one of several key changes in the last 20 minutes that allowed the Ivorians back into the game as they forced an 86th minute equaliser.
“It was tough for him to take over and he couldn’t change much in a few days,” said Fofana.
But there was also credit for the work of Gasset.
“It was a shame what happened to him and we’re all responsible,” added Haller.
“Now we must stay humble. There are no easy opponents in the tournament, and we are a long way from achieving anything yet.”
The Ivorians discover later on Tuesday whether they will meet Burkina Faso or Mali in the quarter-finals at the weekend. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/ivorians-put-poor-group-stage-behind-them-eye-afcon-glory
| 2024-01-30T08:41:21Z
|
blocked_url
|
KYIV – As synchronised swimmers, Maryna and Vladyslava Aleksiiva are used to having to smile no matter what.
The sunny sisters are one of Ukraine’s best hopes of a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics after winning a bronze in artistic swimming at the Tokyo Games three years ago.
But the trials the 22-year-old twins have been put through – forced to flee their homes, surviving shelling and sleeping in bomb shelters – have tested even their stoicism.
They have even had to jump out of the pool and “run to the basement in wet swimsuits” when the explosions got too close, Maryna told AFP.
But regular bombardments have not stopped them from returning to their hometown of Kharkiv to prepare for the Games, even if the windows of their training pool are still broken from missile attacks.
“Everything has been bombed – our pool, where we started training, our school, our city centre,” added Maryna.
While the Ukrainian army eventually pushed the Russian troops back, Kharkiv is still vulnerable, only 30km from the border. Last week, 11 people were killed in the latest wave of Russian missile attacks on the city.
It is not exactly the ideal environment for elite swimmers to go for gold, especially when there is no generator to warm the water when the power fails.
“When the war started, we did not know what to do,” said Vladyslava, the shyer of the two, who often lets Maryna finish her sentences. “But then we understood our main goal could be to show courage all over the world in competitions.”
“To show Ukraine is still alive,” Maryna added. “We must show strength.”
With the Russians threatening to take the city in the early days of the war, the sisters fled Kharkiv with the rest of Ukraine’s artistic swimming team and trained in Italy for six months.
But they were determined to go back to Ukraine to be closer to their parents, training in Kyiv and “sleeping at night in the corridor of a bomb shelter” before returning to Kharkiv.
They have not left their home city since then, except for short trips abroad to compete.
Even if it is more dangerous, “it’s much better to be together, (even) without electricity and music to train”, Vladyslava told AFP during the World Aquatics World Cup in France in May where they won the duet gold.
They visited Montpellier’s historic centre to eat ice cream and post stories on Instagram to celebrate.
But even in those carefree moments when they joked about the joys of having electricity, the war was never far away.
The sisters struck a more sombre note in July at the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan.
“It is hard to focus when your country is at war and you are away from family,” Vladyslava admitted. “We have friends who are sportsmen who died on the battlefield defending our country... it is an awful time for us.”
Every morning in Kharkiv they read the news to see if it is safe to train, and only going to the bomb shelter when it is really dangerous.
The last qualifying rounds for the Olympics are at the World Championships in February, with the team building up for the European Aquatics Championships in June, a dress rehearsal for the Games the following month.
Russia will not be competing at the Olympics after its teams were banned over the invasion. But individual Russian athletes who have not taken a strongly pro-war stance will be able to do so.
The sisters have spoken out, saying that it was “maybe better to not allow a terrorist country (to participate)”.
A medal in Paris would be the ultimate riposte to their Russian competitors who messaged them in the first days of the invasion telling them: “Don’t worry, we will save you... it’s a safety operation.”
“You’re crazy,” Maryna replied. “I invite you to Kharkiv and you will see how my hometown is now... everything has been bombed.” AFP
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/ukraine-twins-smiling-through-bombs-to-go-for-olympic-gold
| 2024-01-30T08:41:32Z
|
blocked_url
|
GENEVA - A boom in cheap crack cocaine is posing challenges to Switzerland’s permissive drug strategy, not least to Geneva’s safe injection rooms.
Behind Geneva’s main railway station, a lime-green container structure called Quai 9 offers a space where people can legally shoot up, inhale or sniff drugs under medical supervision.
The site has more than two decades of experience in handling and supporting hard drug users.
But it has been unable to deal with a sudden surge in the use of crack: a cheap cocaine derivative which can cause paranoia, and aggressive and violent behaviour.
The boom has triggered rampant insecurity, forcing Quai 9 to temporarily close its “shoot-up room” to crack users.
“We have been open for 20 years, working with heroin and injected cocaine, but crack has caused us some difficulties,” said Olivier Stabile, who works with the Premiere Ligne (Front Line) association that runs Quai 9.
“We couldn’t ensure the safety of the other drug users, and we preferred to take a little break,” he told AFP.
The use of crack, a highly addictive drug with dire health impacts, has been surging in several European countries in recent years.
In Geneva, the boom really took off in late 2021 as the Covid lockdown period ended, with consumption doubling in 2022, according to regional authorities.
Observers point to the emergence of small, ready-made doses which suddenly became widely available at record low prices of around $10 (S$10).
But that means users are seeking out $10 hits “around every 15 minutes”, Mr David Perrin, a social health worker with Premiere Ligne, told AFP, adding that the constant hunt for cash was synonymous with violence.
Wary of the risks posed by crack users, Quai 9 nonetheless remains intent on providing support.
While waiting for the authorities to find a solution for safely welcoming crack users back into the shoot-up room, Quai 9 has set up a night-time watch system.
Once a week, Premiere Ligne volunteers patrol the areas where users hang out, handing out water, energy bars and clean crack pipes, which are aimed at helping reduce the transmission of diseases like hepatitis C.
“It’s crucial,” a crack user who only gave his name as Alvin told AFP.
“They take care of the young people, the social rejects,” he said, stressing that “the human contact is essential”.
The Geneva University Hospital has also set up a daytime watch system, with nurses going around to check on crack users.
Quai 9 was set up in 2001, less than a decade after Switzerland began moving away from penalising drug addicts and introduced one of the world’s most progressive drug policies.
The shift was aimed at reining in an out-of-control drug scene that emerged in Zurich and other Swiss cities the 1980s, with people injecting heroin out in the open.
The new approach, which treated users as people needing help rather than delinquents, included safe injection sites and the dispensing of heroin.
Addicts coming with their own doses can obtain injection equipment, under the government’s “four-pillar” policy: prevention, therapy, harm reduction and repression.
The policy has paid off, earning international recognition. Annual overdose deaths in Switzerland have plunged from more than 400 in the early 1990s to below 150 in recent years.
And the Swiss have broadly supported the strategy.
But the crack boom is creating tensions in Geneva, with residents upset over strung-out drug users filling the streets outside Quai 9.
“Until now, Quai 9 was seen in a positive light in the neighbourhood... Now, with the swelling use of crack, some see it as the source of trouble”, lamented Ms Paula Quadri Sanchez, a Premiere Ligne social worker.
Increased crack use has resulted in more street dealing, insecurity, prostitution and other disturbances in the neighbourhood, forcing Quai 9 to request a greater police presence around the centre.
Closing Quai 9 to crack users was a real “electroshock” for the authorities, Mr Pierre Maudet, in charge of health policy in the canton of Geneva, told AFP.
He said crack had undercut the whole structure created for handling drug addiction.
In a bid to deal with the problem, Geneva recently launched a three-year “crack plan”, and aims to open a new space specifically dedicated to crack users.
“We must re-find a balance, with strengthened police and public security action... but also a slightly different health care approach,” Mr Maudet said.
Former Swiss president Ruth Dreyfus, behind Switzerland’s drug policy shift in 1991, agreed crack posed a challenge.
“What worked with heroin is not working today with crack,” she told AFP. “Other answers are needed.” AFP
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/booming-crack-use-challenges-progressive-swiss-drug-strategy
| 2024-01-30T08:41:42Z
|
blocked_url
|
LONDON - Britain’s top climate change advisory body on Jan 30 accused Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of creating “mixed signals” and a perception of “slowing UK climate ambition”, as it demanded renewed action.
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) said the country’s image as a leader on the issue had suffered since a speech by Mr Sunak in September in which he pushed back the UK’s net-zero initiatives by delaying the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and the phasing out of gas boilers.
The Conservative government has also approved a new coal mine and licensed new oil and gas production.
“The international perception of the UK’s climate ambition suffered from mixed messages following announcements on new fossil fuel developments and the prime minister’s speech to soften some net-zero policies,” the committee said.
It advises on government policy over how to reach Britain’s net-zero aims, and on Jan 30 issued its latest report reviewing progress at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in December.
The CCC added that Mr Sunak’s September speech and the government’s recent decisions “have contributed to a perception of slowing UK climate ambition by members of the international community”.
“Strong, consistent domestic policy and communications on climate that avoid mixed messaging are crucial to be able to robustly advocate for high climate ambition internationally,” it added.
The report comes weeks after Mr Chris Stark quit as CCC head, following criticism of Mr Sunak’s environmental policies. He has now called meeting the country’s 2050 net-zero target “wishful thinking”.
Mr Stark’s resignation came just days after Conservative MP and former energy minister Chris Skidmore announced he was quitting as a lawmaker in opposition to Mr Sunak’s decision to grant hundreds of new oil and gas drilling licences.
Mr Sunak has defended the policies, saying the UK would pursue a “pragmatic” approach to achieving net-zero.
The UK leader has said policies have been imposed “without having an honest conversation with the country about what’s required to deliver them”.
The government remained “committed” to those targets, he insisted, adding that he had “absolute confidence and belief that we will hit them”.
The policy shift comes as British voters are facing a cost-of-living crisis that has seen food and housing costs spiral.
Some within Mr Sunak’s ruling Conservatives – in power since 2010 – have raised concerns over the potential financial cost of reaching net-zero.
The main opposition Labour Party – leading in the polls ahead of an expected general election later in 2024 – have joined environmental campaigners and others in criticising Mr Sunak’s policy changes. AFP
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/britain-s-climate-watchdog-accuses-sunak-of-sending-mixed-signals
| 2024-01-30T08:41:53Z
|
blocked_url
|
PARIS - The way food is produced and consumed across the world is racking up hidden costs in health impacts and environmental damage amounting to some 12 per cent of world gross domestic product (GDP) a year, according to a new report on Jan 29.
In the research, a consortium of scientists and economists found that transforming food systems across the world could prevent 174 million premature deaths, help the world meet its climate goals, and provide economic benefits of US$5 trillion to US$10 trillion (S$13.4 trillion).
While intensive food production has helped to feed a global population that has doubled since the 1970s, the report found that this has come with a growing burden on people and the planet.
Poor diets lead to obesity or undernutrition and associated chronic illness, while polluting farming practices drive global warming and biodiversity loss, threatening potentially catastrophic climate impacts that would whiplash back on the world’s ability to produce food.
“We have an amazing food system,” said Ms Vera Songwe, an economist with the Africa Growth Initiative at the Brookings Institution, and part of the Food System Economics Commission (FSEC), which produced the report.
“But it has done that with a lot of cost to the environment, to people’s health, and to the future and to our economics,” she said.
Researchers estimated total underappreciated costs from food systems of up to US$15 trillion a year. That includes around US$11 trillion each year from the loss in productivity caused by food-linked illnesses like diabetes, hypertension and cancer.
Environmental costs are estimated at US$3 trillion from current agricultural land use and food production methods, which scientists say account for a third of planet-heating greenhouse gas emissions.
‘Dramatic’ costs
The authors also compared computer modelling of the consequences by 2050 of continuing current trends and of a hypothetical food system transformation.
They said that on the current pathway, food systems alone will push global warming above the Paris deal’s more ambitious threshold of 1.5 deg C from pre-industrial times.
Heating could reach a catastrophic 2.7 deg C by 2100, they said, while food production would be increasingly battered by climate change.
Obesity would also increase globally by 70 per cent, they said, while around 640 million people would still be underweight.
Imagining a better system, the report’s authors said more effective policies could improve diets, drastically reducing diet-related deaths due to chronic diseases, while transforming food systems into a source of carbon storage by 2040, helping the world stay within its climate goals.
But the report, which comes as farmers across parts of Europe stage protests over a variety of grievances including incomes and environmental regulations, acknowledged that change would be challenging.
The authors urged policymakers to compensate those left behind by a shift to a more sustainable system, noting that promoting healthier diets would have different priorities and focus in different parts of the world.
The report comes after the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation released research last November estimating that the hidden costs of food systems across the world were around US$10 trillion a year, or nearly 10 per cent of GDP.
Professor Johan Rockstrom, of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and the FSEC, said the fact that both groups had come up with a “very dramatic number”, exceeding US$10 trillion, was reason to have confidence in the findings.
But he warned that the future projections were “conservative” because even if the world manages to transition away from fossil fuels, the food system can push the world above 1.5 deg C on its own.
“(That) likely means irreversible changes to major life support systems on earth, which means that the price tag correlated to the food system would accelerate very rapidly for hidden costs that are not included in these analyses,” he said. AFP
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/fixing-food-system-could-bring-13-trillion-in-annual-benefits-report
| 2024-01-30T08:42:03Z
|
blocked_url
|
RAMALLAH, West Bank -The Israeli military said on Tuesday that troops "neutralised" Hamas militants who were hiding in a hospital in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin and were planning an imminent attack.
The military identified one of the men as Mohammed Jalamneh, 27, from Jenin, who it said had contacts with Hamas headquarters abroad and was planning "a raid attack inspired by the October 7th massacre."
It said the two others were militants from the area.
"Jalamneh planned to carry out a terror attack in the immediate future and used the hospital as a hiding place and therefore was neutralized," the military said.
There was no immediate Palestinian confirmation of the men's identities.
The military declined to say whether the three had been killed, but Voice of Palestine radio reported three Palestinian had been killed at the hospital.
The West Bank, among areas where Palestinians seek statehood, has seen a surge of violence since the Oct. 7 attack triggered the Gaza war between Israel and Hamas. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/israel-says-it-neutralized-hamas-militants-hiding-in-west-bank-hospital
| 2024-01-30T08:42:13Z
|
blocked_url
|
WASHINGTON – The United States is expected to intensify military strikes in the Middle East to signal that Iran and its proxies have crossed the line with a drone attack that killed three American soldiers.
But a direct hit on Iranian soil, which would send tensions soaring around the world, remains unlikely.
After the Jan 28 attack by Iran-backed militants on a US military base in north-eastern Jordan that also injured more than two dozen servicemen, the Biden administration is under pressure to send a sharp message to Iran.
Teheran has officially denied any connection to the attack, for which the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a loose-knit network of pro-Iranian militias, has claimed responsibility.
“This is an incredibly volatile time in the Middle East,” US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said in Washington on Jan 29, after a meeting with visiting Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg.
“I would argue that we’ve not seen a situation as dangerous as the one we’re facing now across the region since at least 1973, and arguably even before that,” Mr Blinken said. His reference was to the bloody Arab-Israeli Yom Kippur war, which drew the US and Soviet Union close to a confrontation.
While President Joe Biden held meetings with his top advisors and did not make any public comments, Mr Blinken said the US would respond decisively, without giving specifics.
“That response could be multi-levelled, come in stages and be sustained over time,” he said.
As Republicans in Congress kept up calls for a stiff response, including direct strikes on Iran, defence analysts pointed out that the Biden White House had a track record of the “cautious use of force”.
A reckoning is inevitable as the US contends with an Iran that is increasingly challenging American presence in the Middle East, including thousands of troops stationed in Iraq, Jordan and Syria.
The militant groups that owned up to the attack called it a “continuation of our approach to resisting the American occupation forces in Iraq and the region”.
The Houthi militants in Yemen, also backed by Iran, have fired at US warships and disrupted international shipping along the Red Sea.
“We have three levers we can pull to signal that Iran and its proxies have crossed the line,” said Dr Raphael Cohen at the defence-focused Rand think-tank in Washington.
“You could escalate in terms of the intensity of attacks as a sign of increased American resolve. You can shift the nature of the targets to higher-level militant group leaders.
“Or you can shift the geographical location of the strike. This is what some Republican senators have talked about, striking Iran proper,” he said.
Of the three options, attacking Iran is the least likely, said Dr Cohen, who is director of Strategy and Doctrine Programme at Rand’s Project Air Force, which advises the Pentagon.
“But you can imagine some combination of the other two.”
Targets being talked about in the US media include Iranian shipping or factories where arms supplied to militias are manufactured. Strikes on Iranian paramilitary Quds Force, which supports and trains militias in Syria, Iraq and Yemen, can also not be discounted.
“Whatever retaliation the US decides on, the objective is to establish deterrence such that those groups think twice about striking American forces in the future,” said Dr Cohen.
An escalation is on the cards and the White House needs to set the stage for it, he said, pointing out that between 150 and 170 attacks have been launched on American forces stationed in the Middle East since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct 7.
“The fact that Americans have not been killed before is a testament to American air defences, and frankly, good luck. Not the lack of intent by the Iranians,” Dr Cohen noted.
“The question is what to do to stop them. So yes, there’s an escalation in response, but whatever action the US takes needs to be viewed in that lens,” he added.
“There’s an important framing issue here that needs to be communicated.”
A broad regional war remains unlikely, according to Mr Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East Programme at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies.
“Instead, both sides are likely to probe to discover each other’s redlines, creating a steadier beat of reciprocal violence over the coming months rather than a sudden eruption,” he said in a note.
One reason the White House did not want to hit Iran harder, he said, was that it wanted to broker another temporary ceasefire in Gaza which would lower the regional temperature and rebuild cooperation with US allies in the region.
But domestic politics is also a factor. Mr Biden’s critics in Congress say his policies have deflated American deterrence in the Middle East, leaving the US susceptible to more attacks.
Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell called for inflicting “crippling costs” on Iran, while his fellow Republican Senator John Cornyn demanded strikes on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the custodians of the regime and the country’s nuclear programme.
The conservative Wall Street Journal said in an editorial that Mr Biden’s vow to “hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing” rang increasingly hollow.
“The sorry truth is that these casualties are the result of the President’s policy choices,” it said.
Mr Biden, who is seeking a second term in the Nov 5 presidential election, has pulled his punches with Iran to avoid fanning the flames in the region.
But he cannot be seen to be weak after the loss of American lives. He may not want an escalation but he may not be able to avoid it.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/us-unlikely-to-strike-iran-after-drone-attack-killed-3-american-soldiers
| 2024-01-30T08:42:24Z
|
blocked_url
|
Helen George has made a fresh comment about her future on BBC One's Call the Midwife. The actress, who plays Trixie Franklin, appeared on The One Show on Monday evening, where she answered a question from a fan asking whether she is staying on the show.
Responding to the question, which was sent in via social media and read aloud by host Jermaine Jenas, Helen said: "Gosh. Look, you have to keep watching until the end of the series. Just see how the character evolves this series and then let's see what happens in the future.
"But I love this show dearly," she added.
This isn't the first time Hellen has addressed speculation about her position on the show. During an interview with The Times in November, the 39-year-old said: "I don't know what the plan is," adding: "Like in life, you just never know what's going to happen."
She went on to say that nevertheless, she will stay busy: "I get a bit restless when I have too much time. I don't like to ponder my own thoughts."
Last year, rumours began circulating about Helen and her co-star Olly Rix's potential departures at the end of series 13.
While HELLO! understands that Helen isn't leaving the drama at the end of the season, and that the door will be left open for Olly's character, concern about Trixie's future in Poplar has been growing due to storylines concerning Trixie and Matthew.
Ahead of season 13, creator and writer Heidi Thomas told HELLO! and other press that the couple would face "severe financial challenge" which "challenges" their relationship.
In the latest episode, an anxious Matthew phoned Trixie while she was on call to express his worries over his business.
"I had the most tiresome meeting about investment and things not going to plan," he said. "The business, it's so stressful. I have the most dreadful headache, and Jonty won't stop crying for you."
Trixie was annoyed that he had called her at work, to which Matthew suggested she consider her "other responsibilities" as a wife.
Trixie hung up the phone and continued to oversee trainee midwife Joyce with the afterbirth of a delivery. Despite Joyce's concerns about the patient's placenta, Trixie confirmed that everything had gone smoothly and told Joyce to go home.
It was later revealed that part of the placenta remained in the patient, causing excessive bleeding. With her own career to consider, Joyce decided to report Trixie's negligence to Sister Julienne.
Trixie took full responsibility for the mistake, which she said was "unprofessional and unforgivable", and decided it would be best for her to stay at Nonnatus House for three nights a week to prioritise her patients.
It's safe to say Matthew wasn't best pleased with Trixie's decision and asked if she was "a wife or a midwife". When Trixie asked if she could be both, her husband responded: "Only you can answer that," before walking away.
Fans will just have to tune in on Sunday night to see what the future holds for Matthew and Trixie.
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512317/helen-george-responds-fan-concerns-over-call-the-midwife-future/
| 2024-01-30T09:17:42Z
|
blocked_url
|
Shannen Doherty has finally received some good news amid her ongoing battle with cancer after being diagnosed in 2015.
The Beverly Hills, 90210 alum is currently on a new infusion treatment plan after revealing in November that her Stage 4 breast cancer had metastasized to her bones – just five months after announcing it had spread to her brain.
But now, the 52-year-old is feeling positive after her new treatment yielded some "miracle" results.
Speaking to her radiation oncologist, Dr. Amin Mirhadi, on the latest episode of her Let's Be Clear podcast, Shannen said: "I'm on a new cancer infusion and after four treatments, we didn't really see a difference, and everybody wanted me to switch.
"I just kinda was like, 'We're gonna keep going with this and see.' And yeah, after the sixth or seventh treatment, we really saw it breaking down the blood-brain barrier."
She continued: "Do I call that a miracle? Yeah. For me, that happens to be a miracle right now. That I sort of rolled the dice and said, 'Let's keep going.'"
"And that it's actually breaking down that blood-brain barrier is actually a miracle of that drug, a miracle of maybe God intervening and saying, 'I'm gonna give her a break.'"
She added: "Sometimes you're looking for miracles in all the wrong places and they're right in front of your face."
Shannen admitted that seeing some positive results has helped her to remain hopeful as she continues her cancer battle.
"Every day is a gift and there are so many new things in the works that I think hope is always there. I think it's so important," she said.
"Listen, I can die today, I can die in 20 years, I don't know. I can die walking outside of my house and a tree falling on me or a bus hitting me, whatever. Or I can die of cancer.
"But all I can do is live each day in as much as a positive manner with hope as I can and embrace it and feel like, 'Wow, I get to wake up again today, what can I do?'"
She added: "I believe that positivity that you bring into your life, I think it helps with your whole body. I think that it helps you fight the cancer. Mind over matter a little bit."
Following Shannen's initial diagnosis, she revealed that the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and as a result, she had a mastectomy and underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy and radiation.
In 2017, she went into remission, but sometime in 2019, the cancer returned as metastatic Stage 4 breast cancer, meaning it had spread to other parts of her body beyond the original source of the tumor.
In June 2023, Shannen revealed on Instagram that she had undergone surgery in January to remove a brain tumor, which she named Bob.
Shannen's positive update comes after she expressed her desire to keep her funeral free of people she feels don't genuinely care for her.
"There's a lot of people that I think would show up that I don't want there,” she revealed to her podcast guest and best friend Chris Cortazzo, who is also the executor of her will.
“I don’t want people to be crying or people to privately be like, ‘Thank God that [expletive] is dead now.'"
Get the lowdown on the biggest, hottest celebrity news, features and profiles coming out of the U.S. Sign up to our HELLO! Hollywood newsletterand get them delivered straight to your inbox.
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/health-and-fitness/512318/shannen-doherty-cancer-miracle-treatment-update/
| 2024-01-30T09:17:48Z
|
blocked_url
|
As Paris Couture Week wraps up, it's now the runways in Copenhagen that have captured the world's attention.
The cobbled alleys of the Danish capital have transformed into a vibrant tableau of street style. And this season, the spotlight is shining brightly on a fleet of celebrities who are turning the city into their own personal catwalk, each making bold statements befitting the 'birthplace' of Scandi cool.
You may also like
Join us as we unveil the crème de la crème of the celebrity fashion that graced the Danish capital, setting trends and turning heads.
London Fashion Week is soon upon us, but until then let Copenhagen's A-listers inspire your wardrobe...
Mia Regan
Edie Liberty Rose and Mia Reganattended the Saks Potts show together, with Edie wearing a metallic grey, textured two-piece accessorised with silver earrings and a clear bag. Meanwhile Mia donned a brown leather jacket, black culottes, burgundy socks, and brown pointed kitten heels.
Marie Heyman and Emili Sindlev
Marie wore a blue-grey, crushed leather jumpsuit with a fitted waist, paired with black flats while Danish street style icon EmiliSindlev donned a brown turtle-neck and made a case for the return of cowprint with her a brown and white midi skirt.
Stella Maxwell
The supermodel walkedthe runway at the Saks Potts show during the Copenhagen Fashion Week in a look from the brand's AW24 collection.
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/fashion-trends/512315/best-dressed-celebrities-copenhagen-fashion-week-aw24/
| 2024-01-30T09:17:54Z
|
blocked_url
|
Paris Couture Week is officially over and now Copenhagen Fashion Week has become a hotbed for style-savvy influencers, and avant-garde fashion icons.
Twice a year, the Danish capital becomes the playground for an effortlessly chic tribe of stylish Scandis that march to the beat of their own drum. The Copenhagen crowd tears up the rulebook on minimalism, parading a kaleidoscope of prints, audacious hues, and bold shapes that scream self-expression.
But make no mistake, the Scandi signature of stark lines and utilitarian design still has its moment in the Copenhagen limelight. Influencers strut their stuff, blending timeless essentials with those must-have accessories for looks that are as now as they are eternal.
And as layering game is strong, with a preference for airy fabrics and generous cuts to craft that breezy 'Copen-core' vibe. In Denmark the fashion set champion individual flair, sustainability fashion, and that razor-sharp Scandinavian design. Here, sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's woven into the fabric of the event.
As we gear up for London Fashion Week, let Copenhagen's cool streets be your muse for the season's style playbook...
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/fashion-trends/512316/street-style-copenhagen-fashion-week-aw24/
| 2024-01-30T09:18:01Z
|
blocked_url
|
ASTANA – The Astana Hub International Technopark of IT startups launched the ai.astanahub.com digital platform dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI) on Jan. 30, reported the Astana Hub’s press service.
The new platform consolidates government, business and education efforts to formulate a single space that promotes innovation and the use of AI in various fields.
The digital platform aims to inform the public about Kazakhstan’s activities in the field of AI, provide access to resources and databases, and stimulate the use of AI in creating innovative products and services.
The platform will also serve as a place of training and support for those seeking to use AI in their projects.
Experts note that AI is the most significant technological trend in the modern world. According to a Crunchbase study, investment in AI startups approached $50 billion in 2023, growing up 9% from the previous year.
As one of the key players involved in the development and support of innovative projects in the Central Asian ecosystem, Astana Hub plans to open an AI center to assist with AI-based projects.
The center aims to train the next generation of software engineers, facilitate the creation of new projects, and provide support and resources to startups working on AI-driven projects.
Along with global leaders such as Presight.AI, Microsoft and NVIDIA, Astana Hub conducts various events and training seminars. In 2023, the hub hosted the AI Battle competition, designed to elevate startup ideas and bolster their businesses in AI.
Workshops organized by Microsoft and NVIDIA are also regularly held at the Astana Hub. Kazakh startups have the opportunity to participate in the NVIDIA Inception and Microsoft for Startups programs, which provide startups with financial support and access to resources, experts and technology partners, significantly contributing to their development.
Astana Hub also contemplates offering special conditions for cloud computing resources based on graphics processing units (GPUs) for startups. An analysis of the market’s GPU needs is underway through the ai.astanahub.com platform’s Resources section to help determine the required resources to meet market demands.
The number of AI-based startups is multiplying, which is evidenced by over 200 Astana Hub participants actively utilizing AI technologies, including Cerebra, Biometric, ZebraEye, BeineAI, Flowsell, Paperstack PipeData, and SpeechLab.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of developing and creating an AI system for Kazakhstan’s future and its global positioning.
“The future of Kazakhstan and its place in the international community depends on the success of this work. Therefore, I will personally supervise this area, hold meetings with foreign and domestic specialists, and monitor the execution of assigned tasks,” he said.
|
https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/astana-hub-initiates-ai-digital-platform/
| 2024-01-30T09:30:36Z
|
blocked_url
|
ASTANA — Kazakhstan and the European Union (EU) signed four memorandums worth over 800 million euros (US$865.7 million) at the Global Gateway Investors Forum for the EU – Central Asia Transport Connectivity on Jan. 29 in Brussels.
One of the signed agreements includes a memorandum of understanding between Kazakhstan and the European Investment Bank (EIB) on financial resources to promote the development of the transport sector in the context of sustainable transport links between Europe, Kazakhstan, and Central Asia worth 500 million euros (US$541.2 million).
Welcoming the signing, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell stated the agreement would “contribute significantly to the economic rapprochement of Kazakhstan and the EU.”
Borrell emphasized the memorandum’s focus on further developing the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) to enhance transit potential between EU countries and Central Asia by financing projects in Kazakhstan aligned with the goals of sustainable transport links between the two regions.
Another three memorandums include a memorandum of understanding between the Development Bank of Kazakhstan and the EIB worth 320 million euros (US$346.4 million), a memorandum of mutual understanding “On cooperation on strategic initiatives in the field of road, railway, port, and logistics infrastructure for the purpose of developing TITR between Kazakhstan and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD),” a memorandum of investment between DB C&E and the International Association “TITR.”
Minister of Transport Marat Karabayev expressed confidence that these agreements would provide a new impetus to cooperation between Kazakhstan and European partners. He emphasized the significance of the Global Gateway initiative, not just as a source of economic opportunities but also as a reflection of the strong demand for security and the expansion of global transport networks and supply chains.
Karabayev highlighted Kazakhstan’s role as the main link in the Middle Corridor and its potential as an alternative to East-West routes.
“We have formed a network of efficient transit transcontinental corridors and routes. In the east-west direction, the role of the Trans-Caspian international transport route has increased, as evidenced by the almost twofold increase in the cargo volume transportation between the EU, Central Asia and China at the end of 2023, reaching 2.8 million tons,” he said.
Kazakhstan plans to increase transit capacity, transport, and logistics assets over the next five years. Karabayev expressed interest in signing an agreement with the EU to develop the TITR, ensuring full loading from West to East (including the reverse) by developing infrastructure and the terminal network.
On the first day of the forum, the European and international financial institutions announced their commitment to invest 10 billion euros (US$10.2 billion) in the development of the TITR connecting Europe and Central Asia.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) Global has signed memoranda of understanding for project co-financing with Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Uzbekistan, and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan (DBK) worth 1.47 billion euros (US$1.6 billion).
The Global Gateway investment forum witnessed the participation of a delegation from Kazakhstan comprising more than 50 individuals representing over 25 public and private sector companies. The event focused on developing sustainable transport corridors and promoting stronger ties between Europe and Central Asia.
|
https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/kazakhstan-and-eu-ink-800-million-euro-deals-at-global-gateway-forum/
| 2024-01-30T09:30:43Z
|
blocked_url
|
ASTANA – Kazakhstan has established the National Arqan Tartys (Tug of War) Federation, integrating it into the main program of the upcoming fifth World Nomad Games, the federation’s press service reported on Jan. 29.
Tug of War, registered as an official independent sport, successfully developed in 75 countries. The International Olympic Committee recognizes the Tug of War International Federation.
President of Alageum Electric, Chairman of Kazakhstan’s Association of Electric Machine Builders, and a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Kazakhstan Yerkebulan Ilyassov was appointed president of the National Tug of War Federation.
Since January 2023, Ilyassov has also headed the Federation of Zhamby Atu (archery on horses). Under his guidance, the development of this national sport in Kazakhstan has accelerated, marked by the organization of major national tournaments and the win of over ten medals at international competitions. Also, the Taituyak and Tomiris awards were established for the first time.
The newly created federation will form the country’s tug of war team for the fifth World Nomad Games, scheduled from Sept. 8 to 14 in Astana. Qualifying competitions will be held in five regions across Kazakhstan.
The selection process will identify eight athletes and two substitute athletes in the 720-kilogram weight category for men, while a similar composition will be chosen for women in the 560-kilogram weight category.
|
https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/kazakhstan-establishes-national-tug-of-war-federation-for-fifth-world-nomad-games/
| 2024-01-30T09:30:49Z
|
blocked_url
|
ASTANA – Twenty winners of the Mob Fest participated in a week-long course at the New York Film Academy (NYFA) in New York, as reported by the President’s TV and Radio Complex on Jan. 29. The students had the opportunity to create their films, taking on roles such as a screenwriter, director, camera operator, and performer.
The mobilography competition was organized by the Dara Presidential Initiatives Foundation with the support of the Presidential Administration.
The Kazakh creators learned about the filmmaking process in one of the leading American universities specializing in film production and 3D animation.
Saparbek Zhaksylyk, one of the winners, said the course started with the basics of directing, the technical characteristics of handheld cameras, followed by filming and editing stages.
“NYFA is the fourth official university where I have pursued my education. I am happy with the quality of education and the passion of instructors to teach. The exposure to high-level film technologies and working processes with them enhances interest in the profession. I extend my appreciation to the Dara fund for the opportunity, as studying at NYFA seemed a hard-to-reach dream,” Zhaksylyk told TengriNews.
The competition attracted applications from over 7,000 mobilographers aged 16 to 40, out of which only 100 reached the final stage. Forty authors received cash prizes, and another 40 applicants were offered online courses.
|
https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/mobilography-fest-winners-from-kazakhstan-take-short-course-at-new-york-film-academy/
| 2024-01-30T09:30:55Z
|
blocked_url
|
ASTANA – Kazakh Health Minister Azhar Giniyat took part in the launch of new telemedicine complexes in the North Kazakhstan Region on Jan. 29 during her working trip to the region, reported the Kazakh Health Ministry’s press service.
French Ambassador to Kazakhstan Didier Canesse also attended the launch. The French government allocated a 650,000 euro grant (US$702,828) for a pilot telemedicine project in the North Kazakhstan Region within the Fund for Research and Assistance to the Private Sector.
This project aims to improve the region’s rural population’s access to consultations with specialized medical professionals.
Sixteen LIMSTAR teleconsultation complexes and associated diagnostic devices adapted for remote areas have been installed in medical facilities across the region.
These complexes facilitate connections between patients in rural areas from six interdistrict hospitals, eight outpatient and two medical centers in the region and specialized doctors from two regional multidisciplinary hospitals in Petropavlovsk, offering consultations in various fields such as gynecology, obstetrics, cardiology, ENT (ear, nose, and throat), dermatology, ophthalmology and virology.
LIMSTAR enables teleconsultations between patients and doctors via video mode. The complex has various medical sensors such as electrocardiography, ultrasound scanner, dermatoscope, handheld camera, otoscope and stethoscope.
The project also includes training and support for medical and paramedic teams using the telemedicine solution and collaboration with the ministry to establish a regulatory framework for teleconsultation.
As part of the project, representatives from the ministry and the medical team underwent training in France last October to familiarize themselves with the operational procedures of the French medical teleconsultation system.
During the trip, Giniyat, Canesse, representatives from C3Medical French company, and regional authorities visited two hospitals to observe the demonstrations of the new telemedicine equipment.
Giniyat emphasized the priority of ensuring the availability of quality medical care to the rural population, which accounts for 41% or more than 7.8 million of Kazakhstan’s population.
“In 2023, 1.5 million remote medical services were provided to the population, including 4,443 services in the North Kazakhstan Region. To expand the possibilities of remote services, the implementation of the pilot project C3 Medical is relevant for greater coverage of high-quality medical services to the entire population,” Giniyat said.
|
https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/north-kazakhstan-region-launches-new-telemedicine-complexes/
| 2024-01-30T09:31:01Z
|
blocked_url
|
ASTANA – The world-famous Kazakh eagle huntress born in Mongolia Aisholpan Nurgaipkyzy moved with her family to Kazakhstan, reported Kazinform on Jan. 28.
According to Nurgaipkyzy, she has not abandoned the ancient tradition and practices once a week. Due to her academic workload, she does not take part in competitions but attends them as a guest.
In 2016, English filmmaker Otto Bell shot a documentary film, “The Eagle Huntress,” which showed Aisholpan’s path to triumph in her first-ever eagle hunting contest at the Golden Eagle Festival.
In 2018, Aisholpan received the Order of the Polar Star (Altan Gadas Odon), a state award of Mongolia.
In 2022, the book “The Eagle Huntress: The True Story of the Girl Who Soared Beyond Expectations” was presented at the first Central Asian Media Forum in Astana.
|
https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/world-famous-eagle-huntress-moves-to-kazakhstan/
| 2024-01-30T09:31:08Z
|
blocked_url
|
AISeoTool is an innovative AI-driven platform transforming SEO. Break Google Search Console limits, enjoy guaranteed indexing within 48 hours, and access comprehensive keyword and URL analytics. Elevate your SEO strategy effortlessly.
"🙌 We're Eager for Your Feedback!
Your thoughts, experiences, and feedback are invaluable to us. We're here to answer any questions and to listen to your suggestions on how we can make AISeoTool even better for your SEO needs."
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/autoindex-by-aiseotool
| 2024-01-30T09:38:10Z
|
blocked_url
|
Blozum AI helps in maximising revenue, conversion rates & lead generation on WhatsApp. Blozum is an official Meta WhatsApp partner which automates the process of sending messages, replying to them & selling on WhatsApp - 24x7x365
"Thanks for going through our launch. We would love, love feedback on the product. You can sign up here (https://forms.gle/KVLDnkZfm5ddU8UX8) for the same and we would reach out to you as soon as we can :)"
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/blozum
| 2024-01-30T09:38:16Z
|
blocked_url
|
Products
Coming soon
Check out launches that are coming soon
Product questions
Answer the most interesting questions
Launch archive
Most-loved launches by the community
Newsletter
The best of Product Hunt, every day
Popular products in...
AI
No Code
Social Media
E-Commerce
Analytics
All topics
Web3
Design Tools
Developer Tools
Marketing
Finance
Categories
Community
Discussions
Ask questions, find support and connect
Stories
Tech news, interviews and tips from Makers
Changelog
Release notes from the Product Hunt team
Visit streaks
The most active community members
Hall of Fame
Golden Kitty Awards finalists through the years
Launch Guide
Checklists and pro tips for launching
Collections
Products curated by the community
Marketplace
Advertise
About
About us
Careers
Apps
FAQs
Legal
Sign in
Sign up
Home
→
Product
→
Dear Little One
Dear Little One
Your child's story, narrated by you
Visit
Upvote 19
Free Options
Discuss
Collect
Embed
Share
Stats
Easier and more meaningful than a baby book. Capture memories with quick video messages for your child to relive one day.
Launched in
Parenting
Photo & Video
Family
by
Dear Little One
About this launch
Dear Little One
Your child's story. Narrated by you!
0
reviews
22
followers
Follow for updates
Dear Little One by
Dear Little One
was hunted by
Nate Champion
in
Parenting
,
Photo & Video
,
Family
. Made by
Nate Champion
. Featured on January 30th, 2024.
Dear Little One
is not rated yet. This is Dear Little One's first launch.
Upvotes
19
Comments
6
Day rank
-
Week rank
-
Report
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/dear-little-one
| 2024-01-30T09:38:22Z
|
blocked_url
|
Your design partner and quarterback. Forget the hiring process and get instant access to a top-tier, do-it-all designer, all for one predictable flat monthly fee. Pause or cancel anytime.
"This is my 1st Product Hunt launch. If you have any questions or feedback, I'm all ears! I'm curious to know if you'd ever take advantage of "design as a subscription" for your business. Why or why not? Thanks for checking out Design QB!"
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/design-qb
| 2024-01-30T09:38:29Z
|
blocked_url
|
An app focused on being the best tool for intermittent fasting. The app is designed to be simple and intuitive while also still being configurable for those who need more. There are no ads, just a premium option for those who want a little more.
"Your feedback is crucial in shaping the future of our product. I'd love to hear your insights on aspects such as user experience, features, and any suggestions you might have for improvement."
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/fastpal-intermittent-fasting
| 2024-01-30T09:38:35Z
|
blocked_url
|
Unburden your design team. Outsource your web design needs to Framer Support: Tailored, unlimited design assistance for startups and creators. We provide expert guidance & responsive solutions to elevate your Framer projects.
"- What do you find challenging about using Framer?
- How can a service like ours best support your design goals?
- Any specific features or resources you’d love to have?"
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/framer-support
| 2024-01-30T09:38:41Z
|
blocked_url
|
Products
Coming soon
Check out launches that are coming soon
Product questions
Answer the most interesting questions
Launch archive
Most-loved launches by the community
Newsletter
The best of Product Hunt, every day
Popular products in...
AI
No Code
Social Media
E-Commerce
Analytics
All topics
Web3
Design Tools
Developer Tools
Marketing
Finance
Categories
Community
Discussions
Ask questions, find support and connect
Stories
Tech news, interviews and tips from Makers
Changelog
Release notes from the Product Hunt team
Visit streaks
The most active community members
Hall of Fame
Golden Kitty Awards finalists through the years
Launch Guide
Checklists and pro tips for launching
Collections
Products curated by the community
Marketplace
Advertise
About
About us
Careers
Apps
FAQs
Legal
Sign in
Sign up
Home
→
Product
→
Martial Profile
Martial Profile
The ultimate tool for martial artists, Kickstart your year
Visit
Upvote 34
Free
Discuss
Collect
Embed
Share
Stats
Companion app for martial artists and enthusiasts that will improve their martial arts journey by using a unique approach based on gamified progress tracking, digitalization of their achievements and social connection.
Launched in
Android
Sports
Health
+1 by
Martial Profile
About this launch
Martial Profile
The ultimate tool for martial artists | Kickstart your year!
0
reviews
47
followers
Follow for updates
Martial Profile by
Martial Profile
was hunted by
Felix Izarra
in
Android
,
Sports
,
Health
. Made by
Felix Izarra
and
Fabianny Crespo
. Featured on January 30th, 2024.
Martial Profile
is not rated yet. This is Martial Profile's first launch.
Upvotes
34
Comments
15
Day rank
-
Week rank
-
Report
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/martial-profile
| 2024-01-30T09:38:47Z
|
blocked_url
|
Products
Coming soon
Check out launches that are coming soon
Product questions
Answer the most interesting questions
Launch archive
Most-loved launches by the community
Newsletter
The best of Product Hunt, every day
Popular products in...
AI
No Code
Social Media
E-Commerce
Analytics
All topics
Web3
Design Tools
Developer Tools
Marketing
Finance
Categories
Community
Discussions
Ask questions, find support and connect
Stories
Tech news, interviews and tips from Makers
Changelog
Release notes from the Product Hunt team
Visit streaks
The most active community members
Hall of Fame
Golden Kitty Awards finalists through the years
Launch Guide
Checklists and pro tips for launching
Collections
Products curated by the community
Marketplace
Advertise
About
About us
Careers
Apps
FAQs
Legal
Sign in
Sign up
Home
→
Product
→
Noise
Noise
The modern link-in-bio for artists, musicians and bands
Visit
Upvote 22
Free
Discuss
Collect
Embed
Share
Stats
Noise is a platform that allows artists, musicians and bands to create a new kind of link-in-bio that shows off their music, socials and links in one place.
Launched in
Music
Social Media
by
Noise
About this launch
Noise
The modern link-in-bio for artists, musicians and bands
0
reviews
35
followers
Follow for updates
Noise by
Noise
was hunted by
Ahmed Yasser
in
Music
,
Social Media
. Made by
Ahmed Yasser
. Featured on January 30th, 2024.
Noise
is not rated yet. This is Noise's first launch.
Upvotes
22
Comments
10
Day rank
-
Week rank
-
Report
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/noise-5d8abe7a-7c20-4c72-a645-b7db78dfa785
| 2024-01-30T09:38:54Z
|
blocked_url
|
Exciting news! Noon now integrates with Microsoft Teams in addition to Slack, transforming workplace well-being. 🫶
Boost productivity, reduce turnover, and enhance job satisfaction. Get started with Noon today, with a 14-day trial. 👋
"Support is good, feedback even better.
Try Noon on Slack or Teams and let us know what you think in the comments.
Start your free trial here 🔽
https://www.noon.work"
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/noon-x-microsoft-teams
| 2024-01-30T09:39:00Z
|
blocked_url
|
Interactive shoppable videos made easy. Embed or share anywhere as a link. Add video commerce to your site in minutes, and deliver immersive experiences that your customers will love.
"Thanks for checking us out! Do let us know what makes an impression, or if there is anything else we can do to help you amplify the power of your brand videos 🎉"
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/pebble-app
| 2024-01-30T09:39:06Z
|
blocked_url
|
"Thank you so much for checking out Earth.fm! Please tell us what you think about this free tool, and about our other products. Many thanks! "
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/quiet-places-finder
| 2024-01-30T09:39:12Z
|
blocked_url
|
"Thanks for checking out Screens. Please let us know what you think of the product and its value proposition. If you've had a chance to dive into the product, we'd appreciate your input with this quick survey: https://forms.gle/wCySWtUGWR7kQKqr7"
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/screens-3
| 2024-01-30T09:39:18Z
|
blocked_url
|
Products
Coming soon
Check out launches that are coming soon
Product questions
Answer the most interesting questions
Launch archive
Most-loved launches by the community
Newsletter
The best of Product Hunt, every day
Popular products in...
AI
No Code
Social Media
E-Commerce
Analytics
All topics
Web3
Design Tools
Developer Tools
Marketing
Finance
Categories
Community
Discussions
Ask questions, find support and connect
Stories
Tech news, interviews and tips from Makers
Changelog
Release notes from the Product Hunt team
Visit streaks
The most active community members
Hall of Fame
Golden Kitty Awards finalists through the years
Launch Guide
Checklists and pro tips for launching
Collections
Products curated by the community
Marketplace
Advertise
About
About us
Careers
Apps
FAQs
Legal
Sign in
Sign up
Home
→
Product
→
Shakker.Ai
Shakker.Ai
Turn your imagination into images, in seconds
Visit
Upvote 48
Free Options
Discuss
Collect
Embed
Share
Stats
AI image generation doesn't have to be clunky when you use Shakker. Whether you want to create images, change styles, combine components, or inpaint any parts, Shakker makes it smoother than ever for you with prompt suggestion and precise designs.
Launched in
Design Tools
Artificial Intelligence
by
Shakker.Ai
About this launch
Shakker.Ai
Turn your imagination into images, in seconds
0
reviews
59
followers
Follow for updates
Shakker.Ai by
Shakker.Ai
was hunted by
Luo Baishun
in
Design Tools
,
Artificial Intelligence
. Made by
Seth Carrey
,
Elena
,
Alison Watson
,
Roi Ye
,
kylin
and
Sarah Grey
. Featured on January 30th, 2024.
Shakker.Ai
is not rated yet. This is Shakker.Ai's first launch.
Upvotes
48
Comments
6
Day rank
-
Week rank
-
Report
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/shakker-ai
| 2024-01-30T09:39:25Z
|
blocked_url
|
"Thanks for checking out our launch! We really hope we nailed it this time with the balance between speed-to-market and future-proof scalability, through our no-code builder and our API-first development platform. What do you think? Would you build your marketplace with Sharetribe?"
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/sharetribe-2
| 2024-01-30T09:39:31Z
|
blocked_url
|
Talk freely, with no judgment, and receive instant feedback from your AI Tutor on Univerbal. Get fluent with natural unscripted conversations based on your interests and progress. Work towards language skills with real-life scenarios or create your own topic.
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/univerbal-formerly-quazel
| 2024-01-30T09:39:37Z
|
blocked_url
|
ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov expressed mutual interest in expanding allied relations at a Jan. 29 meeting during Nurtleu’s first official visit to Bishkek, reported the Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s press service.
President Japarov praised the high level of bilateral cooperation, the deepening of strategic partnership, the development of sustainable political dialogue, and the effective interaction of the two countries both bilaterally and within regional organizations.
Nurtleu conveyed President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s best wishes and warm regards, highlighting the current state and prospects of Kazakh-Kyrgyz relations.
The parties focused on strengthening interregional and cross-border cooperation, expanding trade, economic and investment ties, developing cultural and humanitarian collaboration, and advancing joint projects in various fields.
During negotiations with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev, Nurtleu touched on a wide range of bilateral issues, prioritizing the aforementioned sectors. The ministers expressed mutual commitment to deepen the alliance on the principles of friendship, brotherhood, respect and good neighborliness.
Emphasizing the importance of the trustful dialogue at the highest levels, the parties paid special attention to the agreements reached during President Japarov’s state visit to Kazakhstan in March 2021 and President Tokayev’s official visit to the Kyrgyz Republic in May 2022.
“Our countries are reliable allies, very close and fraternal states. We are bound by unbreakable ties of friendship, centuries-old history, close languages and family roots,” Nurtleu said.
The Kyrgyz Republic stands as one of Kazakhstan’s main trading partners within the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Eurasian Economic Union, while Kazakhstan consistently ranks among the top three trading partners of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The ministers welcomed the positive dynamics in mutual trade, which grew to $1.3 billion in the 11 months of 2023, aiming to expand the economic partnership and increase mutual trade volumes to $2 billion.
The parties elaborated on cooperation in the areas of attracting mutual investments, transport and logistics, energy, water resources, and digitalization, including through the development and launch of joint projects.
The negotiations concluded with the signing of a cooperation program between the foreign ministries of both countries for 2024-2026.
Nurtleu also took part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Ata-Beyit Memorial Complex, which is dedicated to the victims of repression, and honored the grave of renowned Kyrgyz poet Chingiz Aitmatov.
Last week, Nurtleu paid an official visit to Tajikistan.
|
https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/kazakhstan-kyrgyz-republic-intend-to-expand-allied-relations/
| 2024-01-30T09:56:48Z
|
blocked_url
|
BRUSSELS - European Union leaders will restate their determination to continue to provide "timely, predictable and sustainable military support" to Ukraine at a summit on Thursday, according to draft conclusions of the meeting.
"The European Council also reiterates the urgent need to accelerate the delivery of ammunition and missiles," the draft text, seen by Reuters, also says.
The draft summit conclusions leave open whether the leaders will also pledge to put another 5 billion euros for Ukraine aid into a fund called the European Peace Facility, which has been used to bankroll donations of weapons to Kyiv.
EU members have been wrangling for months over the future of the fund's role in military aid to Ukraine, with Germany suggesting the focus should now be on bilateral aid from individual EU countries.
The idea of pledging a further 5 billion euros is included in the draft text in square brackets - indicating it is still a matter of discussion.
The main topic of Thursday's summit in Brussels is an effort to reach agreement on a financial aid package for Ukraine worth 50 billion euros over four years, which was blocked by Hungary at a previous summit in December. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/eu-leaders-to-pledge-continued-military-support-to-ukraine-at-summit-draft-text
| 2024-01-30T10:12:16Z
|
blocked_url
|
MOSCOW - Russian opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza has been transferred to a new penal colony in the Omsk region of Siberia and placed in a punishment block, Novaya Gazeta Europe reported on Tuesday, citing his lawyer.
Kara-Murza, who had lobbied for Western sanctions against Russia, was sentenced to 25 years last year on treason and other charges that he denied, comparing the case against him to a Stalinist show trial. His wife said on Monday that he had been moved from his previous prison in Omsk and his whereabouts were unknown. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/russian-dissident-kara-murza-transferred-to-punishment-cell-in-new-prison-media-cites-lawyer
| 2024-01-30T10:12:26Z
|
blocked_url
|
JAKARTA – More than 204 million Indonesians will head to the polls on Feb 14 to choose the country’s next president and vice-president.
Here’s what you need to know ahead of polling day in the world’s fourth-most populous nation:
Q: What is being decided in Indonesia on Feb 14?
A: In what has been called the world’s biggest election to be held in a day, millions of Indonesians will vote to elect their next president and vice-president.
Besides the presidential poll, the national parliamentary election will also take place on the same day, with the electorate choosing their executive and legislative representatives at all administrative levels across the nation.
About 205 million of Indonesia’s more than 270 million people are eligible to vote. And with just over half - or 106.4 million of the eligible voters - aged 17 to 40, the youth vote will play a significant role in this election.
Much attention has been focused on the presidential race, as the country’s current leader, Mr Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, is finishing up his second five-year term and is constitutionally barred from seeking another.
Q: Who is in the running?
A: There are three pairs of candidates who are vying for the role of president and vice-president.
The first pair consists of current front-runner Prabowo Subianto, 72, the defence minister, who narrowly lost to Mr Widodo in 2014 and 2019, and Solo mayor Gibran Rakabuming Raka, 36, Mr Widodo’s eldest son.
A controversial figure, Mr Prabowo has managed to sidestep past allegations of human rights abuses during his time as special forces commander in the country’s armed forces more than 20 years ago, as well as recent controversies surrounding his choice of running mate for the vice-presidency.
Former governor of Jakarta Anies Baswedan, 54, has also set his sights on the presidency, and is running with former minister of manpower and transmigration Muhaimin Iskandar, 57, for vice-president.
Mr Anies, a former academic, is remembered by many for his adept handling of the situation in the capital during the Covid-19 pandemic; but some have criticised him for previously accepting the endorsement of hardline Islamist groups.
The third pair is made up of ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle candidate and former Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo, 55, and his running mate, Chief Security Minister Mahfud MD, 66.
Mr Ganjar has had a long career in public service, and spent nearly a decade in the Indonesian House of Representatives, before serving as governor for two terms.
Q: How will a winner be decided?
A: Indonesian law states that a presidential candidate needs a simple majority - or more than 50 per cent - of the votes to win. They also need to attain 20 per cent of the votes in half of Indonesia’s 38 provinces.
If that does not happen, then the top two candidates will enter a run-off election in June, with the third one eliminated from the running.
Surveys done in recent months indicate that none of the candidates are set to exceed the required minimum of half the votes, with the Prabowo-Gibran pair hovering around the mid-40 per cent mark.
The next president will take office in October 2024.
Q: What have some of the crucial issues been during the campaigning period?
A: Dynastic politics have dominated headlines about the elections so far, with some accusing Mr Widodo of trying to continue his influence on the country, following his son’s entry into the race.
Mr Gibran has been on the spotlight since Indonesia’s Constitutional Court in October issued a special ruling that effectively allowed him - though he was younger than 40, the minimum age required to contest the election - to run for the vice-presidency.
The court, then chaired by Mr Widodo’s son-in-law, ruled that the age requirement would not apply to anyone who has held or currently holds a position won through a general election.
Mr Gibran, meanwhile, has attracted criticism for his behaviour during official debates, which some have called disrespectful, as well as for alleged campaign violations.
The upcoming move of the country’s capital from Jakarta to the new Nusantara city in East Kalimantan has also been an election issue that candidates have sparred over.
Mr Ganjar and Mr Prabowo have pledged to largely continue Mr Widodo’s development programmes, including setting up Nusantara in Kalimantan.
Mr Anies has shot down the idea, saying this will create “new inequality” among different regions, and called for development in not just one location, but others as well.
Q: How is the election important to Singapore and the region?
A: Indonesia is Singapore’s neighbour, and both countries have substantive cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including education, culture, defence and the environment.
In 2022, Indonesia was Singapore’s top-source of visitors; some 1.1 million people, who accounted for 17.4 per cent of total visitor arrivals, were from the archipelago.
Singapore has been Indonesia’s top foreign investor since 2014, with total investments reaching $17.5 billion in 2022.
That year, Singapore was Indonesia’s fourth-largest trading partner, and Indonesia was Singapore’s sixth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $74.6 billion.
Indonesia is also the largest nation in Asean with the biggest economy.
Just in the realm of digital economy, Indonesia was the biggest online spender in South-east Asia in 2022, accounting for 52 per cent of the region’s total gross merchandise value (GMV), according to a report by Singapore-based venture firm Momentum Works.
Geopolitically, Indonesia has also increasingly become a big player.
In 2022, besides staging the first meeting between US President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, Indonesia also led the Group-of-20 (G-20) nations during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In 2023, Indonesia chaired Asean and navigated the bloc through three conflicts: the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and the civil war in Myanmar.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/askst-what-do-i-need-to-know-about-the-indonesian-election-and-how-does-it-affect-singapore
| 2024-01-30T10:12:37Z
|
blocked_url
|
NAUNGCHO, Myanmar – Three years ago, young placard-waving Myanmar democracy protesters were hounded from the streets of Mandalay city by soldiers in the wake of the military’s latest coup.
In December, some of those same protesters faced off against the military again – but this time they were operating a mortar in northern Shan state, firing rounds at a junta position with swift, practised movements.
The coup launched three years ago was supposed to put control of Myanmar firmly back in the hands of the military after a 10-year experiment with democracy.
Instead, it has plunged the country into civil war, crashed the economy and inspired tens of thousands of young people to join “People’s Defence Forces” (PDFs) and wrest their democracy back by the gun.
PDF units range from small teams in the scorching plains of Myanmar’s heartlands to larger outfits in rugged border regions where more established ethnic rebel groups have taken them under their wing.
It is impossible to determine how many people have died in the conflict.
But at least 4,400 people have been killed in the military’s crackdown on dissent since the coup, according to a local monitoring group.
The junta says its opponents have killed more than 6,000 civilians, and describes the PDF fighters as “terrorists” working to destroy the country.
Teachers to fighters
Years of weathering attacks from the junta’s Chinese and Russian-made weapons have transformed many PDFs into battle-hardened units.
“We have the ability to take down every soldier in our area,” said Mr Ko Phyo, a former teacher who now goes to work for the Mandalay PDF in camouflage uniform and combat helmet.
He was speaking from a defensive position around 15 minutes drive from the town of Pyin Oo Lwin – a former British hill station now home to the military’s elite officer training academy.
“So, before they send a convoy they use heavy weapons and air strikes to cause havoc in our positions,” he said from his trench on the frontlines.
“That’s the only strategy they have.”
For Mr Ko Phyo and his comrades – teachers, surveyors and students – the latest coup was proof the non-violent struggle for democracy led for decades by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi would never dislodge the military from power.
“We shouldn’t be an egg if we want to destroy solid rock,” said Mandalay PDF commander Mone Tine, 30, who before the coup worked at a civil society organisation promoting good governance.
“We don’t overestimate the military, and we aren’t afraid of them.”
Graffiti on the pockmarked walls of a nearby police station gives graphic proof of the ebb and flow of battle.
On one wall, a junta soldier had scrawled an expletive against the PDF, the foe the military has been unable to vanquish.
Nearby were written the words “Spring Revolution” – the name given by Myanmar democracy fighters to their struggle – and a depiction of the three fingered pro-democracy salute.
Stolen ammo
At their bases in the Shan hills, the lives of the Mandalay PDF recruits are a far cry from home, ticking along to many of the same rules and regulations as their military foes.
Every morning, the group’s flag is raised and a chorus of assembled fighters reaffirms their commitment to overthrowing the junta.
Officers are saluted and sharp whistle blasts announce regular air raid drills and send fighters scurrying for cover in trenches.
An administration office hums with activity to keep the fighters clothed, fed and armed.
Mr Mone Tine would not give details on exactly how many fighters the Mandalay PDF has, but said it was in the “high thousands”.
Finding the money to keep operations running is “a big problem”, he admitted, with the group largely reliant on donations from a sympathetic population and from members of the diaspora.
For weapons and ammunition, the group looks elsewhere, including the junta.
“It’s a good feeling to attack the military with the ammunition that we seized from them,” said Mr Mone Tine.
Many of Mr Mone Tine’s fighters received combat training from the Ta’ang National Liberation Army, an ethnic minority armed group that has long battled the military for more autonomy.
Ethnic armed groups in northern Kachin and eastern Karen states have also taken in PDF fighters for training.
Few expect that the PDF groups can topple a military that has run Myanmar for much of the country’s 70 plus years of independence.
But their various alliances with the ethnic armed groups, some of which have fought the central authorities for decades, have undoubtedly shaken the junta.
In October, Mandalay PDF fighters joined a months-long offensive by an ethnic rebel alliance that led to the opposition forces gaining swathes of territory in the northern Shan state.
Analysts say that offensive has left the junta at its weakest since it seized power.
On the front lines in Shan state, “Sugar”, 33, – a pseudonym – said there was no turning back for his comrades in the Mandalay PDF.
“Our battlefield experiences have made us into different soldiers. We are learning from fighting and fighting while learning,” he said.
“We know we have to sacrifice. We have adapted ourselves and have no more fears.” AFP
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/from-placards-to-guns-myanmar-s-democracy-protesters-battle-junta
| 2024-01-30T10:12:47Z
|
blocked_url
|
Singaporean singer Tanya Chua turned 49 on Jan 28 with friends in Taipei, including Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai.
On Jan 29, Chua, who is based in Taiwan, posted several photos and a video of her birthday bash, which had a theme of longevity peaches.
“Welcoming the next half-century of my life with joy and peachiness, as I am grateful to be surrounded by family, friends and distinguished people,” the Mandopop star wrote in Chinese. “There are still some tasks in the universe which I have not completed, and I will give it my best shot.”
Chua was named Best Female Singer (Mandarin) for a record fourth time at Taiwan’s Golden Melody Awards in 2022, with her album Depart winning Album of the Year, Best Mandarin Album and Best Vocal Recording Album.
Referring to the photos of her celebration, for which she wore a sash with the words “Birthday Queen”, she wrote: “I love the vintage-inspired, natural, unretouched look of us on camera. Ha.”
The singer also shared photos of a gathering which included Tsai, 43. Chua was seen using her hands to signal 5-0, as she wrote that she is still continuing with the celebration of her “half-century birthday”.
She posted a video of her playing the guitar. Then she stopped and the camera panned to Tsai, who continued strumming the guitar while seated on the floor.
“Thanks to my chicken-soup-for-the-soul members,” Chua quipped. “We will officially change our name to xx Guitar Club today.”
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/singer-tanya-chua-celebrates-birthday-with-jolin-tsai-and-others
| 2024-01-30T10:12:57Z
|
blocked_url
|
Twenty years ago, Finland appeared to have it all. The birth rate was rising and the proportion of women in the labour force was high. Policymakers from around the world, including the UK and East Asia, came to learn about the Nordic model behind it: world-class maternity care, generous parental leave, and a right to pre-school childcare.
But maybe they got it wrong. Despite all the support offered to parents, Finland’s fertility rate has fallen nearly a third since 2010. It is now below the UK’s, where the social safety net is more limited, and only slightly above Italy’s, where traditional gender roles persist.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Read the full story and more at $9.90/month
Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month
ST One Digital
$9.90/month
No contract
ST app access on 1 mobile device
Unlock these benefits
All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com
Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device
E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/are-family-friendly-policies-no-longer-enough
| 2024-01-30T10:13:18Z
|
blocked_url
|
The recurring story of new technology is its unintended consequences.
Take image-generators powered by artificial intelligence or AI. Their creators have claimed they are enhancing human imagination and making everyone an artist, but they often fail to mention how much they’re helping to create illicit deepfake pornography too. Lots of it.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Read the full story and more at $9.90/month
Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month
ST One Digital
$9.90/month
No contract
ST app access on 1 mobile device
Unlock these benefits
All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com
Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device
E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/can-taylor-swift-save-humanity-from-ai-s-dark-side
| 2024-01-30T10:13:28Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – The High Court has dismissed bids by two King’s Counsel, one from Australia and the other from Britain, to be admitted to the Singapore Bar on an ad hoc basis so that they can act for four convicted drug traffickers on death row.
In a written judgment on Jan 30, Justice Woo Bih Li said there were no special reasons to grant the applications for ad hoc admission.
Mr Theodoros Kassimatis and Mr Edward Fitzgerald had filed separate applications in 2023, each seeking to act for two inmates.
Mr Kassimatis was admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Victoria, Australia, in 2001. He was appointed Senior Counsel in November 2016 and Queen’s Counsel in March 2017.
He had sought admission to act for Jumaat Mohamed Sayed and Saminathan Selvaraju.
Mr Fitzgerald was called to the Bar of England and Wales in November 1978. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in January 1995.
He had sought admission to act for Datchinamurthy Kataiah and Lingkesvaran Rajendaren.
The four inmates were convicted of heroin trafficking and given the mandatory death penalty between 2015 and 2018. Their respective appeals against conviction were dismissed between 2016 and 2020.
On Aug 22, 2022, they applied for permission to start a constitutional challenge against provisions of the Misuse of Drugs Act that shift the burden of proof for specific elements of the offence to the accused person.
They argued that these provisions violate the presumption of innocence that is protected under the Constitution.
The bid was dismissed by the High Court on Nov 25, 2022. One of the judge’s reasons was that the subject matter of their application was not susceptible to judicial review.
The four then filed further applications in an attempt to appeal against the High Court’s decision.
Mr Kassimatis and Mr Fitzgerald subsequently applied for ad hoc admission to act for the four.
The two King’s Counsel filed written submissions and made oral submissions before Justice Woo through Datchinamurthy on Nov 23, 2023.
Under the Legal Profession Act, foreign counsel seeking ad hoc admission must first meet certain requirements before the court considers whether there is a special reason to admit them.
One of the mandatory requirements states that the individual must have special qualifications or experience for the purpose of the case.
In the present case, Justice Woo found that Mr Fitzgerald has special experience in cases involving judicial review, but Mr Kassimatis did not meet this requirement.
As for whether there were special reasons, Justice Woo said the mere fact that the case raised issues of public importance was not sufficient to admit the two foreign lawyers.
The inmates had argued that a special reason exists as they have been unable to find local lawyers to represent them.
Justice Woo said the reasons for the unsuccessful efforts to engage local counsel were relevant.
The judge highlighted that the inmates’ friends had approached two local lawyers, who stated that “the facts of the four cases are such that the pending challenge has no merit”.
Justice Woo said it would be incongruous to allow foreign lawyers to be admitted when local counsel are of the view that there is no merit on the facts.
The judge added that the four inmates have been able to access substantive legal assistance, even without formal representation.
He noted that a Malaysian lawyer had prepared some documents for them, and that the written submissions they filed were drafted with legal terms and arguments.
Justice Woo said there was nothing to prevent foreign counsel from taking part in the preparation of the written submissions.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/high-court-rejects-bids-by-two-king-s-counsel-to-act-for-4-drug-traffickers-on-death-row
| 2024-01-30T10:13:38Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – An insurance agent cheated his aunt of $55,000 after deceiving her into believing she was investing in shares purportedly offered by Singapore investment company Temasek Holdings.
On Jan 30, Xie Huirong, 27, was sentenced to two years and four months’ jail after he used different methods to unlawfully obtain cash from her and other victims, including his then clients.
He wanted to regain his capital after losing an undisclosed sum in cryptocurrency trading.
Between 2018 and 2022, he committed cheating and other offences, including criminal breach of trust, involving more than $193,000.
Xie, who has since made more than $77,000 in restitution to his victims, pleaded guilty to offences including five counts of cheating. Eleven other charges were taken into consideration during his sentencing.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Shaun Lim said the offender was an agent representing insurance firm AXA from Aug 28, 2017, to Nov 24, 2019.
Xie’s name could not be found on the General Insurance Association’s website when The Straits Times conducted a search on Jan 30.
One of the clients he cheated was a research fellow at a local university. He sold her two policies in either late 2018 or early 2019.
Some time before June 16, 2019, Xie told her that she could enjoy better returns if she paid her yearly premiums for the next three years in advance as a lump sum.
He told her that he could make the payments for her if she handed over the money to him. She transferred $30,000 between June 16 and July 8, 2019.
The DPP said: “The accused never transferred this money to AXA, and only issued the victim with receipts after she persistently asked him for them.
“In August 2019, the accused asked to meet with the victim. He admitted that he had never transferred to AXA the money... and had instead lost it in investments.”
He has since transferred $10,000 back to her.
According to court documents, he cheated most of his other victims in 2019. His aunt was among them and some time before July 10, 2019, he told her that she could invest in shares purportedly offered by Temasek Holdings.
He claimed returns were guaranteed and she could withdraw her principal investment at any time.
Xie told her that she could receive returns of $1,000 for every $10,000 invested and showed her documents, supposedly from Temasek Holdings, to convince her to make the so-called investment.
On five different occasions between July 10 and 25 in 2019, she withdrew a total of $55,000 in cash and handed the amount to him. DPP Lim said: “He used the money... to repay his AXA clients whom he had taken money from.
“When the victim tried to withdraw the investment, the accused told her that the application had been filed but did not return her any money.”
In late 2019, AXA interviewed Xie over his offences against his clients and the police investigated the case in 2020. He returned $7,500 to his aunt soon after.
His bail was set at $20,000 on Jan 30 and he is expected to surrender at the State Courts on Feb 7 to begin serving his sentence.
For each count of cheating, an offender can be jailed for up to 10 years and fined.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/jail-for-ex-insurance-agent-who-cheated-aunt-of-55k-over-purported-temasek-holdings-investment
| 2024-01-30T10:13:49Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – Singaporeans are again getting e-mails claiming to come from the taxman that aim to trick them into clicking on a link that directs them to a fake website.
They are then asked to provide personal details, including Singpass credentials and credit card details.
All of this is part of a phishing scam that is making a comeback, said the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (Iras) in a statement on Jan 30.
In the latest ruse, taxpayers are promised a tax refund, the statement added.
In October 2023, Iras warned of a similar scam in which victims were duped into clicking on a link claiming to be from the taxman. Victims were informed that their property tax notices were ready for viewing via WeTransfer, a file transfer service.
Phishing scams usually involve e-mails, text messages, calls or advertisements from scammers who impersonate officials or trusted organisations.
The aim is to trick victims into revealing details like their credit card or bank account information. The scammers would then carry out unauthorised transactions on the victims’ cards or bank accounts.
In 2022, scam victims in Singapore lost $660.7 million, up from $632 million in 2021, bringing the total to nearly $1.3 billion in two years.
Taxpayers are advised to ignore the phishing e-mail and not provide any personal, credit card or bank account details, make payments or follow any of the instructions in the e-mail, said the statement.
Victims can make a police report, it added.
To avoid falling victim to conmen, click only the links with iras.gov.sg or go.gov.sg.
It said: “For tax transactions including filing and payments, taxpayers should use relevant forms and digital services in myTax Portal secured by Singpass login.”
Iras added that it will not ask for taxpayer details or any confidential information via e-mail or unsecured web links.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/s-poreans-reminded-to-be-wary-of-scam-e-mails-claiming-to-offer-tax-refunds-from-iras
| 2024-01-30T10:13:59Z
|
blocked_url
|
DENVER – Doc Rivers was appointed the new Milwaukee Bucks head coach not to cure any tactical or mental ailments that the team may be suffering from, but to further improve a “very coachable team”.
That was his view even as he suffered defeat in his first game in charge on Jan 29, when Nikola Jokic scored a 25-point triple double as the Denver Nuggets clinched a 113-107 National Basketball Association (NBA) home win.
The heavyweight showdown between the reigning NBA champions and 2021 champions Milwaukee did not disappoint, with two-time Most Valuable Player Jokic dominating at both ends of the floor.
The Serbian star had 16 rebounds and 12 assists to seal his 14th triple double of the season while making three steals and two blocks. He was given scoring support from Jamal Murray, who led with a game-high 35 points.
The Bucks, who appointed Rivers last week following the shock sacking of Adrian Griffin, were led by 29 points from Giannis Antetokounmpo while Damian Lillard finished with 18 points.
Despite the loss, Rivers was encouraged by Milwaukee’s performance.
“Overall I was very happy,” he said. “That fight is there. That’s something really encouraging moving forward. They’re great. They’re a very coachable team.”
The former Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers coach is in his 25th season as a head coach and he knew exactly what it was all about.
He kept a close watch on his new team as he alternated from folding his arms, to putting his hands on his knees, and then on his hips as he paced up and down the sideline.
He even kneeled, clapped and was in deep conversation with Joe Prunty, who was the interim coach before he joined.
“He did a great job commanding the team, leading the team,” forward Khris Middleton told ESPN.
“It’s going to take time for us to get used to him and him to see what we’ve been doing and how we’ve been successful so far this season and in the past.”
In the top-of-the-table clash in the Western Conference, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 37-point display was in vain as the Oklahoma City Thunder fell 107-101 to the Minnesota Timberwolves at home.
The two sides went into the game with identical 32-14 records having spent most of the season battling it out for first place in the West. The Nuggets are now second on 33-15.
The game swung back and forth with 24 lead changes before Minnesota pulled away in the closing stages, outscoring the Thunder 34-24 in the fourth quarter.
“We did a really good job of finishing this game, which we haven’t been doing recently,” Minnesota head coach Chris Finch said. “Hopefully we can build on it.”
Anthony Edwards topped the Wolves scoring with 27 points while Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 21. All five Minnesota starters finished in double digits.
Elsewhere, Boston bounced back from their blowout defeat to the Clippers with a battling 118-112 home victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Eastern Conference-leading Celtics improved to 36-11 for the season courtesy of 28 points from Jayson Tatum, with Jaylen Brown adding 22 and Jrue Holiday 20.
The Pelicans led for long periods of the game and were up by 17 in the second quarter before Boston conjured a 37-point fourth quarter to sweep past them.
Derrick White was instrumental in the fightback for Boston, nailing 13 of his 17 points in the final period.
“Things weren’t going well for us for most of the game, but we stuck together,” he said.
“It’s not always going to be perfect. We just gotta find new ways to win each and every game, and we did that today.”
Brandon Ingram (28 points) and Zion Williamson (26) led the Pelicans scoring.
In Houston, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers stumbled to a 135-119 loss to the Rockets.
James was one of three Lakers players to finish on 23 points, along with Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell. AFP
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/basketball/denver-nuggets-down-milwaukee-bucks-in-doc-rivers-first-game-in-charge
| 2024-01-30T10:14:10Z
|
blocked_url
|
BANGKOK – Thai police have warned Liverpool fans not to fall for online scammers impersonating Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso, hotly tipped to replace Jurgen Klopp at Anfield in the summer.
The Central Investigation Bureau told supporters to watch out for a viral message purporting to show the Spaniard’s Instagram account asking for donations of 300 baht (S$11.40) to help pay his air fare.
“I am Xabi Alonso, I will be in charge of Liverpool next season, but I am short of money for my flights to Liverpool,” said the message, written in Thai.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder is among the favourites to take over from Klopp, who shocked fans on Jan 26 by announcing he would step down at the end of the season.
“Liverpool fans, calm down. Xabi is not yet the manager, but there is already a scammer,” the police statement posted on Facebook said on Jan 28.
The police said the message – doctored to look like it came from Alonso’s official Instagram account – was “a scammer pretending to be Xabi”.
The Premier League is enormously popular in Thailand and Liverpool are among the best-supported teams, with red shirts and club crests adorning everything from people to taxis and shops. AFP
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/thai-police-warn-liverpool-fans-not-to-fall-for-xabi-alonso-scam
| 2024-01-30T10:14:20Z
|
blocked_url
|
MOSCOW - The Kremlin said on Tuesday that it does not accept the decision on Monday by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to ban Russian teenage figure skater Kamila Valieva for four years for doping.
In a call with reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia would defend the rights of its athletes to the end.
The decision against Valieva effectively stripped the Russian Olympic Committee of its gold medal in the team event at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, but Peskov said Russia would always consider them to be Olympic champions.
The CAS panel determined there had been no scope for Valieva, who was 15 at the time of the offence, to be treated with more leniency than an adult found to have committed an anti-doping rule violation.
Valieva tested positive for the banned substance trimetazidine, which prevents angina, at the Russian national championships in December 2021. The result was made known only after she competed in the team event in Beijing.
Her team has said the positive test could have been due to a mix-up with her grandfather's heart medication. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/kremlin-says-it-does-not-accept-valieva-doping-ban
| 2024-01-30T10:14:30Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – Takayuki Nishigaya’s stint as Singapore national football coach was doomed from the start.
The 50-year-old Japanese was sacked by the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) on Jan 29, but he should not be the only one held responsible for the Lions’ largely poor run of results over the past two years.
In December 2021, his predecessor Tatsuma Yoshida quit the post less than 11 months into his second two-year contract, but it took the FAS four months to appoint a replacement.
Budget was a concern, but there were still candidates who had international experience and pedigree.
One of them was Stephen Constantine, who took India to the 2019 Asian Cup and the top 100 in the Fifa rankings, and after being snubbed by Singapore, led Pakistan to the second round of World Cup qualifiers for the first time.
While it seemed like the Englishman had the CV to deliver, the FAS passed up on the opportunity – though there was no guarantee he would have succeeded here.
But what it failed to do was to give the national team every chance of succeeding.
The Asian Cup qualifiers in June 2022 were one example, with a kind draw and a single round-robin tournament presenting the Lions with a great chance to qualify for the continental showpiece for the first time. With just one international football window in March 2022 to prepare, it was baffling that the FAS took such a long time to appoint Nishigaya on April 25, 2022.
It wouldn’t be until May 26, 2022 that he held his first training session, giving him little to no time to understand and bond with the players before they set off. They had just one friendly against Kuwait on June 1, 2022 before the Asian Cup qualifiers in Kyrgyzstan a week later.
They took the lead against the hosts before losing 2-1, lost 1-0 to Tajikistan, and beat Myanmar 6-2. Imagine what could have been if the team had more time to work with their new coach.
There are other questions to ponder.
Despite mediocre results at club level, Nishigaya was hired on the recommendation of the Japan Football Association.
Did the FAS seriously consider other options? Did it do its due diligence to check on Nishigaya’s personality, temperament, and ability to communicate? Or did it simply trust that lightning would strike twice and he would, like Yoshida, work out?
Every good international coach needs a first break, and there are plenty of cases of coaches who succeed overseas despite not speaking the country’s native language.
However, some like Vietnam’s former coach Park Hang-seo, have a strong team of assistants and skilled translator who could bring the coach’s ideas and messages across well. The Lions just did not have that.
The association and Nishigaya are not the only parties responsible for his failing. What can they do if some players feel it is a good idea to attend a New Year’s party a few days before a crucial AFF Championship clash against Malaysia, which they lost 4-1?
But the coach has to take some of the blame – sources say that he is an introvert who made little effort to bond with his backroom staff and players.
Ultimately, the lack of synergy showed in the lack of identity in games, even if his record of eight victories, five draws and eight defeats is actually superior to Yoshida’s 6-4-10 report card.
Nishigaya was effectively a dead man walking after the Causeway derby humiliation and the rumour mill was rife with talk of his termination when The Straits Times reported that the search for a replacement had begun before the second round of World Cup qualifiers last November.
Albirex Niigata coach Kazuaki Yoshinaga and former Warriors boss Alex Weaver were in the running but did not get the job despite having won the Singapore Premier League title and their experience working in local football.
Japan national team and Olympic team assistant Tsutomu Ogura is believed to have agreed terms with the FAS and was recently in town for medical tests.
The local fraternity is hoping that the FAS, its management and the team will learn from this failure, as a coach on his own can only do so much.
An effective communicator with the ability to inspire the team to play above themselves and a proven track record are ideal qualities, but the Lions must also play ball.
The next national coach must be given resources to build his backroom, organise quality training camps and friendly matches to increase camaraderie and playing levels, as well as time for his philosophy to take root.
Clear targets and timelines must also be set. Forget the World Cup – the AFF Championship semi-finals will be a good start and qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup must be the main goal.
The FAS rarely sacks its foreign coaches and its decisiveness this time round, believing that “an early transition to a fresh successor would re-energise the team” must be matched by the right decisions moving forward.
Otherwise, we could be stuck in Groundhog Day and having this same discussion in two years’ time.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/singapore-football-coach-sacking-limp-lions-not-solely-nishigaya-s-fault
| 2024-01-30T10:14:40Z
|
blocked_url
|
Diana Shnaider knocked out top-seeded Magda Linette of Poland 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 on Monday in a stunning start to the Thailand Open in Hua Hin, Thailand.
The 19-year-old Russian saved six of nine break points against the 2020 tournament champion, finishing the match in two hours and nine minutes. Up next for Shnaider is Spain's Paula Badosa, who rallied to beat Thai teen Lanlana Tararudee 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 in just under two hours.
No. 3 seed Xinyu Wang and No. 5 Xiyu Wang of China both advanced. Japan's Nao Hibino overcame a 5-0 deficit for a 7-6 (4), 6-0 win against Kamilla Rakhimova of Russia. Hungary's Dalma Galfi and Switzerland's Viktorija Golubic both won their openers in straight sets.
Upper Austria Ladies Linz
England's Katie Boulter saved all five break points she faced and cruised to a 6-2, 6-2 upset of No. 6 seed Jasmine Paolini of Italy in first-round action in Austria.
Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova saved all three break points in a 6-4, 6-0 win against Martina Trevisan of Italy.
Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko is the No. 1 seed. Russia's Anastasia Potapova is the defending champion and the No. 5 seed.
--Field Level Media REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/wta-roundup-top-seed-falls-in-thailand
| 2024-01-30T10:14:52Z
|
blocked_url
|
BRUSSELS - The European Union will need €1.5 trillion (S$2.1 trillion) a year of investments to meet its 2050 net-zero emissions target, according to research backed by Green EU lawmakers on Jan 29.
The European Commission is set to recommend next week that the EU cuts net emissions 90 per cent by 2040, from 1990 levels, and outline the huge upfront increase in investments needed to get Europe on track to have zero net emissions by 2050.
Most of the funding needed for net-zero – €1.16 trillion a year – could be secured by redirecting existing spending, much of it on polluting activities, according to the research by the Institut Rousseau think-tank, which was commissioned by Green EU lawmakers.
That would imply a huge divestment from areas like combustion engine cars, fossil fuel production and new airports, and a jump in investments into public transport, renovating buildings and expanding renewable energy, the researchers said.
“Much of the money needed is out there, but we need massive divestment from climate killing projects,” said Mr Philippe Lamberts, co-president of the Green lawmakers group in the European Parliament.
As climate change unleashes increasingly costly extreme weather, EU policymakers are gearing up for EU elections in which climate policy is set to be a key issue.
Some governments are pushing back on the EU’s green agenda, citing its costs, while farmers protesting in France have called for the rolling back of some EU environmental rules. Opinion polls suggest the EU election could make passing ambitious climate policies harder, if it results in more lawmakers from populist and right-wing parties.
A draft of the Commission’s internal modelling for the 2040 climate target, seen by Reuters, suggested a similar scale of investment would be needed, of roughly €1.5 trillion a year in less polluting energy systems.
The researchers said the investments needed to reach net-zero emissions would mostly come from the private sector, but public spending on the green transition would also need to double, to €490 billion a year.
For comparison, the EU currently spends €359 billion a year on fossil fuel subsidies, they said. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/eu-needs-trillions-of-investment-for-2050-climate-target-research
| 2024-01-30T10:15:02Z
|
blocked_url
|
NEW YORK – Global spending on the clean-energy transition hit record highs as the world moves to rein in climate change, but it’s still not enough to get on track to net-zero emissions.
Total spending surged 17 per cent last year to US$1.8 trillion (S$2.4 trillion), according to a report on Jan 30 from data provider BloombergNEF. These include investments to install renewable energy, buy electric vehicles, build hydrogen production systems and deploy other technologies. Add in the investments in building out clean-energy supply chains, as well as US$900 billion in financing, and the total funding in 2023 reached about US$2.8 trillion.
The record spending reflects the growing urgency of international efforts to combat climate change on the heels of the hottest year on record – and even more heat expected this year. However, the world needs to be investing more than twice as much in clean technology in order to reach net-zero emissions by mid-century, according to BNEF.
“The opportunity is large and spending is accelerating, but we need to do so much more,” Mr Albert Cheung, BNEF’s deputy chief executive officer, said. Total spending on the energy transition last year was well short of the more than US$4.8 trillion that the London-based research provider estimated will be needed annually from 2024 to 2030 to get the world on a net-zero pathway.
BNEF is warning that governments need to do even more in the coming years. Mr Cheung estimates that investments needs to surge by 170 per cent for the world to get on pace to reach net-zero.
“We’re in the steep part of the curve, and we’ll see rapid growth” for spending every year, he said. “But whether we get on track for net-zero, that’s a difficult ask.”
China remains the biggest market by far with US$676 billion spent last year. That’s an increase of only 6 per cent compared to 2022, though. Investments in the US, the UK and Europe grew by at least 22 per cent, in comparison, to a combined total of US$718 billion. That was driven in part by incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act, the flagship US climate law, which is starting to have a significant impact. Strong sales of electric vehicles in the UK as well as booming demand for renewables across Europe also helped drive up the total.
Spending on EVs globally climbed 36 per cent to US$634 billion. That made it the sector that saw the largest investments, surpassing renewable energy, which gained 8 per cent to US$623 billion. Investors poured US$310 billion into power grids, which will be a critical tool to deliver clean energy that will be generated from new wind and solar farms coming online, making it the third-biggest market.
Some nascent technologies saw torrid growth. Hydrogen investments, for example, tripled to US$10.4 billion in a sign of increasing interest in the technology, though it has yet to be proven at scale. BLOOMBERG
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/world-spent-record-24-trillion-on-clean-energy-in-2023
| 2024-01-30T10:15:12Z
|
blocked_url
|
Cartoons of the week Published: Jan 30, 2024 Cartoons of the week Published: Jan 30, 2024 Miel Miel Miel Miel Cel Gulapa Cel Gulapa Cel Gulapa Cel Gulapa Restart Share these cartoons Facebook WhatsApp Telegram Messenger X (Twitter) Copy Permalink Tap next
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/2024/01/cartoons-of-the-week-january-30/index.html?shell
| 2024-01-30T10:16:52Z
|
blocked_url
|
Karen Hauer has started 2024 with a bang! The Strictly Come Dancing professional, who split from third husband Jordan Wyn-Jones in October, has gone Instagram official with her new love.
Taking to her Instagram Stories on Monday, the 41-year-old shared a picture of herself with her new rugby player boyfriend Simon Davidson, 34.
The sportsman originally shared the snap on his grid alongside the caption: "Things can change in an instant [heart emoji]. Try to live in the moment you never know what may happen #love #2024 #live #38."
Celebrity friends were quick to comment on the post, with Gemma Atkinson adding heart-eyes emojis. Strictly's Gorka Marquez teased: "Look at you two!! [heart-eyes emoji]." Karen's celebrity partner Eddie Kadi also put fire emojis underneath.
Earlier this month, the new couple sparked romance rumours when they were spotted leaving a Birmingham hotel where Karen was staying during the Strictly tour.
The sighting came months after Karen's former husband, Jordan Wyn-Jones, confirmed that they had separated. The fitness instructor, whom Karen married in June 2022, spoke exclusively to the Mail on Sunday, saying: "Karen's dedicated to her career, which she has worked really hard for. She's amazing and I admire her for it. That's one of the reasons I wanted to marry her – because of how powerful she is."
In the interview, Jordan explained they decided to go their separate ways over their differing views on whether to start a family, with Jordan being keen to do so, while Karen was less certain.
Speaking about the moment they decided to call it quits, Jordan said: "There were tears on both sides. A lot of tears and sadness. We didn't want to let go of each other but we're also not right for each other.
"If we'd stayed together and we didn't have a family, I felt I would have ended up resenting her. This is the perfect moment for us to love each other and leave each other."
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/512325/strictly-karen-hauer-instagram-official-new-boyfriend-after-marriage-split/
| 2024-01-30T11:07:13Z
|
blocked_url
|
Bryce Dallas Howard made sure all eyes were on her when she attended a screening of her new movie, Argylle in Midtown, New York on Monday.
The 42-year-old redhead wowed in a floor-length, neon green dress which showed off her sensational figure and her flawless sense of style.
Bryce smiled coyly for the cameras as she exited her car and was escorted into the movie theatre by security.
The Jurassic Park actress had teamed her figure-hugging, ruched dress with matching green kitten-heeled shoes and accessorized with delicate drop earrings and elegant makeup.
Bryce has been busy promoting her new spy movie in which she stars alongside Samuel L Jackson, Bryan Cranston, Ariana DeBose, and John Cena.
In the flick, Bryce plays Elly Conway, an introverted spy novelist who is enticed into the activities of a sinister underground syndicate.
There were reports that Taylor Swift had secretly authored the book that inspired the movie, but Bryce explained that isn't the case.
During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, she cleared up the conspiracy. "We can’t pretend she was involved. The reality is [Taylor] was in many ways a great inspiration," she said of her character in the film.
"She is a cat lady. She’s got this awesome backpack with a cat in, that she walks around with. She loves a good argyle sweater, and there is a sort of unapologetic dorkiness about her. That's a little bit like what my character is like."
Away from the big screen, Bryce is a doting mother and wife. She's been married to actor, Seth Gabel, since 2006 and they share two children, Beatrice, 12, and Theodore, 16.
She's the daughter of famed director, Ron Howard, and over the festive season she opened up about what Christmas was like with him, his six grandchildren and extended family too.
"It feels exactly like Parenthood," she told People, referring to the 1989 Steve Martin film her dad directed. "I mean exactly."
"It's less dysfunctional in terms of all the adults, but just in terms of the chaos and the love and little tense moments and then reconciling."
They all made the trip to Australia where Ron was directing a movie and ahead of their vacation, Bryce added: "It's going to be beautiful and warm and all of that, but we do a lot of cookie making and stuff."
As one of four sibling, Bryce says family is "very, very, very grandkids centric," but she wouldn't have it any other way.
Get the lowdown on the biggest, hottest celebrity news, features and profiles coming out of the U.S. Sign up to our HELLO! Hollywood newsletterand get them delivered straight to your inbox.
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/512323/bryce-dallas-howard-turns-heads-appearance-skintight-neon-dress-bold-statement-in-new-york-photo/
| 2024-01-30T11:07:19Z
|
blocked_url
|
The Queen of Spain looked stunning when she stepped out for an important event in Madrid on Monday, exuding glamour in a gorgeous cornflower blue moment.
Letizia sported a pale blue wrap dress by Adolfo Dominguez that had long sleeves that were cuffed at the wrist and cinched at the waist. The knee-grazing garment was styled with a pair of nude leather pumps by Magrit with a kitten heel.
When she was seen arriving at the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, Letizia wore a belted tan longline coat by Carolina Herrera. To round off the look the royal added the 'Mini Doma Insignia Satchel Crossbody Bag' by Caroline Herrera that her 18-year-old daughter Princess Leonor wore to the Opening Session of the Cortes Generales of the XV Legislature at the Congress of Deputies last November.
To complete the look, the royal wore her hair in a straight mid-length style and a makeup look that is increasingly becoming her go-to. Pink-toned brown eyeshadow was blended around the top and bottom lashlines and lashings of mascara were applied. A light pink glossy lip tied the look together.
The Queen stepped out to attend the National Disability Awards in Madrid. Upon arrival, Letizia was received by the president of the National Heritage Administration Council, Ana de la Cueva.
In the Ambassadors' Hall of the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, Her Majesty presided over the 31st meeting of the Council of the Royal Board of Trustees on Disability. The Royal Board on Disability works to achieve the social inclusion of people with disabilities by developing studies and research to better understand the situation of disability; developing projects so that people with disabilities have more and better educational opportunities to find employment and developing programmes to make society more accessible.
Just last week the Spanish Queen looked so stylish when she stepped out last week in a different aesthetic that was equally chic. Letizia attended the FITUR Tourism Fair 2024 at Ifema, the events venue in Madrid, and chose to re-wear her Teresa Helbig jumpsuit which was black with a white ruffled and buttoned panel on the chest and across the shoulders.
The garment had white cuffs on the sleeves and culotte bottoms and she added a leather belt. To complete the look Her Majesty popped on a pair of black pumps by PINKCHIC guagua.
Letizia previously wore the jumpsuit in 2022 when she embarked on an official visit to Croatia. The royal chose the piece for the opening of the Croatian-Spanish IFMIF-DONES Forum in Zagreb alongside President Zoran Milanovic and First Lady Sanja Music Milanovic.
She styled the jumpsuit with a pair of knee-high black leather boots with a pointed toe, a skinny black leather belt, and carried a black bag.
DISCOVER: Queen Letizia wows in waist-cinching trousers and gorgeous boots
King Felipe's wife and Sanja Music Milanovic visited the SUVAG Polyclinic, a Croatian health institution that is involved in education and social care for hearing and speech-impaired children.
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/512321/queen-letizia-spain-exudes-glamour-cinched-wrap-dress-national-disability-awards-leonor/
| 2024-01-30T11:07:25Z
|
blocked_url
|
Gypsy Rose Blanchard has "reinvented" herself following her early release from prison on December 28, 2023.
The 32-year-old showed off her brand-new look on social media after undergoing a hair transformation for a cause close to her heart.
Gypsy revealed that she chopped off several inches of her long dark hair and shared a selfie of her dramatically shortened locks alongside a photo of the hair she cut off.
"It's never too late to start reinventing yourself, even if it is something subtle like a new hairstyle," she penned.
"To All the girls, boys, and non binary…Enjoy life, express yourself in whatever creative ways that may you happy," she added.
"Life is too short to hide your beauty let the world see you shine."
In a follow-up video on TikTok, Gypsy revealed that she will be donating her chopped strands to The Great Cut, a charity that provides hair replacements to children with medically related hair loss.
"So, what I've been wanting to do for a very long time is to donate my hair to a charity that makes wigs for people that have hair loss or that are going through cancer," she explained.
"I have had my own personal experience with hair loss not by means of health reasons, but if you know my story, you're very familiar with those reasons why."
As a child, Gypsy was the victim of Munchausen syndrome by proxy – a mental illness in which the caretaker of a child, often the mother, either makes up fake symptoms or induces illness to make it look like the child is sick.
At one point, Gypsy's mother, Clauddine 'Dee Dee' Blanchard, gave her daughter a fake cancer diagnosis and shaved off her hair.
Gypsy was also forced to take medications she didn't need and was put in a wheelchair despite being able to walk after her mom tried to convince people she was suffering from muscular dystrophy and other ailments.
Gypsy continued: "For me, not having hair was really hard on my self-esteem. So, I just want to do something to help other people that are going through issues with hair loss because I know the only time that I ever felt beautiful is when I was wearing a wig."
After taking her hair out of a ponytail to show off her new 'do, she exclaimed: "I think it looks kinda cute."
Gypsy served seven-and-a-half years of a 10-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to second-degree murder for her part in the death of her mother. Her ex-boyfriend, Nicholas 'Nick' Godejohn is currently serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole after he was found guilty of first-degree murder.
Gypsy is working to rebuild her life following her release and last week she announced that she has grown her family after adopting a puppy with her husband, Ryan Scott Anderson, whom she wed in prison in 2022.
The couple – who are "not ready to have a baby yet" – are now the proud parents to Pixie, a black and white Malshi, a cross of the Maltese and the shih tzu.
"Ryan and I just wanted to get something that we both can kind of have to take care of and just have as an addition to the family," she said while introducing her new puppy on social media.
Get the lowdown on the biggest, hottest celebrity news, features and profiles coming out of the U.S. Sign up to our HELLO! Hollywood newsletterand get them delivered straight to your inbox.
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/512319/gypsy-rose-blanchard-hair-transformation-photos/
| 2024-01-30T11:07:31Z
|
blocked_url
|
Claudia Winkleman has become synonymous with statement outfits, a unique preference when it comes to her makeup, and a box fringe so long that it delicately brushes the lashes. So, when a video interview from the late 1990s resurfaced online recently, many were baffled by how different the broadcaster looked.
In the days following the dramatic finale of The Traitors, unearthed footage began circulating on social media showing the host of the beloved gameshow appearing on BBC Breakfast for an interview.
Although she's rocking a sweeping side fringe, the lack of her iconic dark locks and square bangs makes her almost unrecognisable. Not only that, but Claudia's voice also sounds different too. Watch the full video below to see 1990s Claudia Winkleman in all her glory…
In the clip, Claudia's hair is worlds' apart from her statement style of today. Her locks are honey-hued and way past her shoulders in length, and the side parting adds a sweeping fringe right across the brow.
One fan even picked up on Claudia's voice having an air of the late Princess Diana. "Claudia: The Princess Diana Years," they wrote on Twitter. Another said: "She looks so much like her mum."
At the time of the interview, Claudia was best known for her stints as a reporter on various BBC shows including Holiday, and also as a contributor on ITV's This Morning. In the BBC clip, Claudia is giving her best dating advice, fitting since she was also the host of Three's a Crowd, a dating show which aired at the time.
Claudia's mother, Eve Pollard, was also known in the media world. In the mid-1980s, Eve was launching editor of US ELLE magazine and was also previously a writer for the Daily Mirror and the News of the World.
MORE: Strictly's Claudia Winkleman shares intimate detail about home hygiene – and fans are in disbelief!
The presenter's father, meanwhile, Barry Winkleman, separated from her mother when Claudia was seven years old and went on to marry author Cindy Black. Barry and Cindy welcomed a daughter, Sophie Winkleman, an actress. Now known as Lady Frederick Windsor, Sophie and Claudia are half-sisters.
Nowadays, Claudia is known for presenting The Traitors and Strictly Come Dancing but when she's not busy hard at work, she can be found at home in Westminster with her husband, film producer Kris Thykier and their children, Jake, 20, Matilda, 17, and Arthur, 12.
Claudia prefers to keep her family and children's lives relatively private, but it's clear they have a strong bond.
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/hair/512324/fringeless-claudia-winkleman-is-just-like-princess-diana-in-unearthed-video-watch/
| 2024-01-30T11:07:37Z
|
blocked_url
|
If you're looking for the best gift ideas to impress the incredible woman in your life - or you're looking for a gift to treat yourself - we've done the hard work so you don't have to. From beauty products to fashion accessories, homeware pieces and the latest must-have jewellery, we've got all the best gifts for women. Whether you're after a thoughtful gift for your mum, sister, aunt, best friend, or the work wife in your life, or whether you're getting your Valentine's Day gift sorted, get shopping for ideas now.
How we chose the best gifts for women
- Personal experience: The writer of this article is a woman and has two sisters and lots of female friends to buy for. She also is quite the shopaholic herself and many people - HELLO! colleagues included - come to her for help with gift giving (especially the men in the office!). We also consulted a personal shopper for her helpful insights.
- Price: This gift edit needs to suit all budgets, especially with the cost of living.
- Variety: We want this edit to have something to suit everyone with lots of different interests.
- Reviews: While we've tried to include things we have personally tried where possible, we've also used highly reviewed products from personal shoppers.
Best gifts for women - at a glance
- You can't go wrong with perfume. Check out our edit of the best new perfumes for women
- A candle is always a good idea and a woman can rarely justify buying a candle for herself. We have an edit of the best luxury candles you can buy as gifts as well as cheap and cheerful candle suggestions.
- Funny gifts can be cute - Etsy has its own category of best funny gifts and we have the perfect little pressies for the Prosecco princess in your life or the ultimate gin lover.
- An experience. Personally I love an experience gift, whether it's a luxury spa day or an afternoon tea or a trip to London to see a show, it makes for a great kind of gift. Also, they tend to be a gift for yourself as more than often, it's for the two of you. Check out our best experience gift suggestions for her.
- If you don't know the woman all that well - maybe it's your boss or a female colleague or a recent friend, I find that flowers usually go down a treat. Check out our edit of the best flower delivery services.
Top tips for buying a woman a gift - according to a personal shopper
- Personalisation: "Something personalised is a great way to show you’ve actually put some thought into the gift. Etsy is brilliant for this as and you’ll be supporting smaller businesses with items not as accessible on the high street. However if easier, Marks & Spencer, Emma Bridgewater, Sezane to name but a few also do a range of personalised gifts."
- Experiences: "Think of experiences that they would enjoy but never make time to do; a spa day, afternoon tea, zoo keeper experience if they like animals and being outdoors. There are plenty of options on Virgin and Buy a Gift. Or even a subscription to receive something monthly; flowers, a beauty box, magazine."
- Interests: "Consider any hobbies that you could use to generate a gift; gardening, sports, cooking. Is there a book, tool or piece of clothing that they are missing or has worn out and they haven’t got round to replacing yet?"
- If all else fails: "No matter what anyone says, you can’t go wrong with flowers. Even if you take a supermarket bouquet and re-wrap in some brown paper with rustic ribbons to make it look a touch more special. Don’t forget David Austin do an amazing array of roses – there could be one with their name on it!"
- Don’t forget to consider your budget! "Sales Assistants are a great tool for gift ideas but don’t be led by them once you’re in store. If you get carried away you could walk out with her birthday, Christmas and Valentine's gift all wrapped up in one. And just for the record, no one likes a joint occasion gift."
Natalie Rose, Personal Stylist and Shopper
The best gift ideas for her...
1/27
Penhaligon's Liquid Love
Penhaligon's Eau de Parfum
Editor's Note
I am a longtime fan of Penhaligon's - the perfume just has total staying power and they're always so different to the norm.
If you're after a gift for your beloved, how about some Liquid Love. The passionate new scent from Penhaligon's will set hearts a-flutter thanks to the spicy rushes of pink pepper, ginger and turmeric lock in fiery embrace with chilli and musk.
2/27
The Valentine’s Day Classic Red Roses Gift Bag & Mini Prosecco
Red Roses
Editor's Note
If you're looking for a Valentine's Day gift, you can't go wrong with this gift set from Waitrose & Partners. You get 12 stems of red Foundation Upper Class roses with eucalyptus in a gift bag, with a half-bottle of Prosecco.
Go the extra mile with this winning combination of Waitrose' top-selling roses gift bag and mini San Leo Prosecco. What's more, a percentage of the sale support growers in Kenya – so send a gift that really shows you care. Need even more convincing? You get a free bar of Tony's chocolate with purchase for a limited time only.
3/27
Hotel Chocolat The Velvetiser – Copper Edition
Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser
Editor's Note
This is definitely one of my favourite purchases of all time, and one that I gift to friends and family time and time again. I use this all year-round and I'm stunned every time I use it because yes, the hot chocolate really is that delicious. I can recommend the Salted Caramel flavour! It's a great gift for someone like your mother-in-law - someone you want to keep sweet.
The Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser is the perfect gift for a loved one who adores a hot chocolate. Engineered by Dualit, the Velvetiser gives you delectably smooth, whipped hot chocolate in the comfort of your own home and the current deal (£30 off!) makes it a no-brainer. It's simple to use - add flakes of real chocolate to your choice of dairy, plant milk or water, then press the button and let the patented velvetising process deliver luxurious cloud-like chocolate velvet.
4/27
Elemis x WOLF EXCLUSIVE The Ultimate Radiance Collection
Elemis Luxury Gift Set
Editor's Note
If you want brownie points, you'll get it with this! Have you ever seen something so luxurious?! Created in partnership with WOLF and available exclusively at Harrods, preserve your youthful luminosity with this indulgent skincare collection. Featuring five advanced formulas from ELEMIS’ potent ULTRA SMART Pro-Collagen range to reveal visibly stronger, youthful-looking skin, presented alongside a limited edition ELEMIS x WOLF Jewellery Case.
The ELEMIS ULTRA SMART Pro-Collagen skincare collection is a results-driven range that reveals visibly stronger, youthful-looking skin – including a line-smoothing eyecare duo, firming serum, velvety day cream and restorative night cream. The collection is presented in a beautiful, limited edition ELEMIS x WOLF Jewellery Case.
5/27
Jo Malone London Rose Blush Home Candle
Jo Malone London Candle
Editor's Note
All you need is love (and roses!). This scent is UNREAL, and a real crowd pleaser. I also love that it has a unique glass design.
Jo Malone London has long celebrated the beloved English rose, and now, in the run-up to Valentine's Day, you can now buy the limited edition Rose Blush Candle. Think delicate rose petals suspended in a delectable jelly. Vibrant basil and a juicy note of lychee add a modern twist to this soft floral scent, cocooned in the embrace of white musk.
6/27
Kylie Minogue Prosecco Rosé NV & Glasses Gift Box
Kylie Minogue Prosecco Gift Box
Editor's Note
I'll admit, this would be hard for me to part with. Just think, your female friend or female family member is lucky lucky lucky.
A Kylie Wines gift box, need we say more? Put your hand on your heart and tell us this isn’t the perfect present. The chic silver gift box contains a heart-embossed bottle of Kylie Minogue Prosecco Rosé NV and a pair of matching Kylie Minogue glasses to sip it from.
7/27
Victoria Beckham Beauty VB’s Finishing Touch Collection Gift Set
VB’s Finishing Touch Collection Gift Set
Editor's Note
Whatever Victoria Beckham touches turns to gold and whoever receives this delightful gift set will be so happy - and she'll feel super posh.
This five-piece set is wrapped inside a meticulously crafted pouch to house your new essentials on the go and features a new shade of Posh Gloss, the iconic Satin Kajal liner, EyeWear shadow stick, Reflect Highlighter, and a brass compact mirror.
8/27
Chanel Beauty 31 Le Rouge Lipstick Case
Chanel Lipstick
Editor's Note
The idea that you can have a lipstick for life is a fairly new concept, but this unique design is one of true beauty. Rouge Beige is my personal favourite - the slightly pink pearly beige is inspired by the beige satin evening dresses created by Gabrielle CHANEL, a colour borrowed from the day to illuminate the night. The glide-on formula goes on like a dream, and thanks to the Gardenia oil, it's nourishing for the lips too! If you need any more convincing, this lipstick was spotted everywhere at the 2024 Golden Globes.
Talk about a gift that's basically an heirloom! CHANEL has launched the refillable lipstick of dreams - and the first to feature glass packaging, Four years in the making to turn the seemingly fragile case into a sturdy one, it's the ultimate chic gift. There are 12 shades to choose from, and you literally cannot make a wrong choice.
9/27
Fortnum & Mason The Bellini Box
The Bellini Box
Editor's Note
This would make a great gift for your cocktail loving friend - someone who loves to go for a boozy brunch and is the life and soul of any party.
Equal parts delicious and decadent, Fortnum & Mason's The Bellini Box is designed for celebrations with your nearest and dearest. To make a proper Bellini cocktail, you need crisp Prosecco and sweet white peach nectar.
10/27
Mulberry Micro Zipped Bayswater Handbag
Mulberry Handbag
Editor's Note
Since the release of the Barbie movie, pink has never been more in vogue and this pink Mulberry is a real showstopper to look at. If she's a fan of pink, she'll absolutely love it.
A little luxury goes a long way, like Mulberry's pink rose Micro Zipped Bayswater handbag. She'll love the minuscule version of the iconic Postman's Lock. It might well be tiny in size but still practical in function, it features internal credit card slip pockets to keep essentials secure and an adjustable shoulder strap that can be removed as desired.
11/27
Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Long PJ Set
Eberjey Pyjamas
Editor's Note
These PJs are made from 100% Washable Silk and manufactured with the lowest possible impact on the environment. Yes, that's right, these silk pyjamas are machine wash friendly.
Nightwear makes a great gift for women - who doesn't love something new for bed time? Eberjey is an iconic sleepwear brand loved by celebs and royals and there are plenty of colourways to choose from.
12/27
Stanley Citron Classic Iceflow Flip Straw 0.89L Tumbler
Stanley Cup
Editor's Note
After SNL dubbed the Stanley Cup as the 'Big Dumb Cup' I haven't stopped thinking about one, and yes, they're a little extra but if you're in need of H2O on the go, this is what you want - and this neon one will make such a fun gift, but there are plenty of other colours around the internet.
Stay hydrated with a TikTok-loved Stanley water bottle. The IceFlow is an update on the cult classic reusable tumbler, complete with a built-in snap straw and folding handle for easy use whilst hiking, working out or just out and about. It keeps drinks cold for 12 hours and iced for 2 days!
13/27
Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler and Dryer
Dyson Airwrap
Editor's Note
Ok, so it took me a while to get on the Dyson Airwrap super fan train, but now I'm on it, there's no getting off. I think it makes a great gift because it's fun to play with, and the box is full of so many treats for you to experiment with. I have naturally thick, heavy, wavy hair which can be very difficult to style and the Dyson Airwrap works an absolute treat. It took me a while to perfect but now it's second nature.
Elevate your gifting with Dyson's special edition Airwrap, which includes not just the styler but comes in a chic storage case, plus a complimentary comb.
14/27
Stackers Classic Jewellery Box
Stackers Jewellery Box
Editor's Note
As someone who struggles with keeping my jewellery safe but still accessible, I think this would make a really exceptional gift that she can can keep for years to come. It's stylish and functional - the perfect pairing.
Know a jewellery lover? She can keep her precious jewels safe and secure in this elegantly designed Stackers two-drawer jewellery box, luxuriously finished in a soft velvet lining.
15/27
Rituals Gift Set S
Rituals Gift Set
Editor's Note
Rituals are one of the best brands when it comes to home and body products so we're definitely predicting a sellout of their wonderful gift sets.
You can never go wrong with a gift set - and we're loving the Ritual of Ayurveda collection from Rituals. With a product value of £66.30, this relaxing bath and body set contains a foaming shower gel, body cream, scented candle and some mini fragrance sticks for your special someone to enjoy a self care moment in 2024.
16/27
NERE Accessories Bundle 5 Pack
NERE Accessories Bundle
Editor's Note
If the person you're buying for has a big trip planned, this accessories bundle will show lots of thought into this present.
This five-pack accessories bundle has travel gear staples for every journey. Inside you'll find a slim luggage tag, a luggage strap, 3-pack packing cube, a passport cover and a mini case for valuables.
17/27
Rise & Fall Oversized Finest Cashmere Wrap
Rise & Fall Cashmere Wrap
Editor's Note
This 100% A-grade Mongolian cashmere is made up of the longest, finest yarns and perfect if you're looking for premium quality, without the eye-watering price tag.
If you're after a wrap that’s warm and cosy, yet lightweight and breathable, this is the perfect one. Great for flights, too!
18/27
SORU Large Pearl Crystal Stud Earrings
Soru Statement Earrings
Editor's Note
I have an obsession with Soru earrings - and these ones in particular are my absolute favourites right now. They look beautiful, and you can tell they're made with care and with high quality materials.
Would you look at these delightful earrings? Soru should be your point of call if you're after luxury statement jewellery. Princess Kate is a big fan, too!
19/27
The Glitter Store Personalised Wedding Glitter Print Artwork
The Glitter Store Artwork
Editor's Note
I have bought Lillie Bernie's glitter artworks for the last few years and they are genuinely my favourite things I own. I have bought them as gifts too, and they work really well for that 'ooh' and 'ahh' moment.
A perfect handmade gift, a glittery piece of artwork for your nearest and dearest. Choose your favourite photo and let the artist create the magic! The perfect way to bring their most special moments to life.
20/27
Swarovski Angelic Necklace
Swarovski Tennis Necklace
Editor's Note
Swarovski’s Angelic collection is a bestseller for as reason and this is ideal for special occasions and gift giving.
Twinkle twinkle! A lucky woman will feel like royalty in this beautiful tennis necklace.
21/27
Dior Beauty J'Adore L'or
J'Adore L'or
Editor's Note
I loved the original of this fragrance, but the relaunched version gives it an edge. I also love how the iconic bottle is reinvented and adorned with precious materials. The necklace is now different, and the curves and roundness echoes the warmth of the scent.
The director of Dior Fragrance Creation, the iconic Francis Kurkdjian, has showcased the beauty of the J'adore flowers by heightening their nuances and accentuating their colours for J'adore L'or. The full and voluptuous perfume essence contains notes of orange blossom, jasmine grandiflorum and centifolia rose absolutes.
22/27
Our Place Mini Home Cook Duo
Our Place Cookware
Editor's Note
I genuinely look forward to cooking because of my Our Place cookware. If you've got a foodie BFF who thinks of herself as Nigella Lawson, this is the ultimate gift for her.
Our Place has become the cooking brand du jour over the past few years, and the mini sizes are becoming increasingly popular. We think this duo set would make a fabulous gift. The Mini Perfect Pot and Mini Always Pan are a match made in kitchen heaven. From cooking up the perfect eggs to whipping up all manner of sauces to reheating soups and leftovers, this duo is mini, mighty, and multifunctional.
23/27
Antler Clifton Suitcase In Coral
Antler Suitcase
Editor's Note
This polycarbonate suitcase is strong, light on its feet and wheels like a dream.
If you know someone who loves to travel and is in need of luggage, this could be the gift that keeps on giving. The Clifton case is everything you could possibly want from a suitcase - each feature is designed to last longer and function better than ever before.
24/27
The White Company Unisex Hooded Ribbed Hydrocotton Robe
The White Company Dressing Gown
Editor's Note
You can't go wrong with a dressing gown from The White Company, it'll be the cosiest gift they open - guaranteed.
The White Company's ribbed Hydrocotton robe has the same beautiful quality and fluffy texture as the brand's bestselling Hydrocotton towels. This style features a cosy hood and is generously sized to make it extra snuggly.
25/27
M&S The Heritage Tea Coffee & Treats Hamper
M&S Food Gift Hamper
Editor's Note
This is a great gift for a couple - you can bet everything will get eaten in seconds.
This M&S Heritage Tea Coffee & Treats Hamper is a gift the whole family can enjoy. This best selling selection features a range of scrumptious goodies from the Heritage Collection. M&S' rich roast and ground coffee and luxury tea are presented in tin caddies, embellished with designs inspired by the brand's original M&S storefronts.
26/27
Assouline Vital Voices by Alyse Nelson and Gayle Kabaker
Assouline Book
Editor's Note
The ultimate gift for the feminist in your life.
Vital Voices, edited by Alyse Nelson and illustrated by Gayle Kabaker, documents the stories of 100 women who are using their power to make a difference. This hardcover book includes portraits of some of the world's most influential public figures, as well as first-person narratives that explore their activism, leadership and fight for equality. Discover the perspectives of everyone from Tarana Burke to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.
27/27
HELLO! Magazine Subscription
HELLO! Subscription
Editor's Note
Sorry, but you didn't think we wouldn't include this, did you? The best gift of all...
We know just the thing that will make your loved one's day - a subscription to HELLO! Magazine, which will be delivered straight to their door every week.
Hope you enjoyed this gift guide! Follow me on Instagram @leannebayley.
Meet the expert
Natalie is a Personal Stylist and Shopper and has worked in retail since her parents sent her out to work at a young age! It is entirely their fault she has a ‘problem’ with handbags as her first Saturday job was a leather handbag shop. However it also started off her life long obsession with great materials and fibre compositions of garments. She is all about ensuring classic items have longevity in our wardrobes, no one has the time or money to re-build a wardrobe each year. Natalie has a loyal client base she has built up over the last few decades as well as working for a number of retailers from high end to off price. From great ways to store your clothes to shopping in store and online, there is nothing that she doesn’t know when it comes to her favourite past time and career; shopping! Follow her on Instagram @natalierose_stylist
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/shopping/512286/best-gifts-for-women-ideas-for-her/
| 2024-01-30T11:07:43Z
|
blocked_url
|
An app focused on being the best tool for intermittent fasting. The app is designed to be simple and intuitive while also still being configurable for those who need more. There are no ads, just a premium option for those who want a little more.
"Your feedback is crucial in shaping the future of our product. I'd love to hear your insights on aspects such as user experience, features, and any suggestions you might have for improvement."
|
https://www.producthunt.com/posts/fastpal
| 2024-01-30T11:09:36Z
|
blocked_url
|
Beauty
You Could Use Glow Recipe’s New Hue Drops In The Dark & Still Come Out Perfectly Bronzed
The new serum really is that easy to use.
As a beauty editor, I’ve developed a sense for products that are going to be a big deal — even before I try them. Some of the signs? It’s a launch in a new category from a brand that has already gone viral. It promises super glowy skin — and fast. And sometimes, the packaging is just plain cute. The new Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops Sun Glow Serum happens to hit the trifecta, so it’s no surprise that it’s already getting major buzz on TikTok even though you can’t shop the product until Feb. 23.
But the path to the beauty-product graveyard is paved with good intentions (and social-media buzz). That’s why we had to investigate whether the new Hue Drops Serum is worth the viral hype. Ahead of the official launch, NYLON got hold of a sample — here are our honest thoughts.
Fast Facts:
- Brand: Glow Recipe
- What’s the new product? Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops Sun Glow Serum
- Price: $35
- Specs? Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free
- Who is it for? All skin types and tones
- When does it launch? Launching on sephora.com Feb. 23 and in Sephora stores on Mar. 1
The Product:
How To Use:
Because it’s skin care, the Hue Drops Serum is meant to be applied with your hands as the last step of your routine like a glowy primer — about two pumps should cover your entire face and neck. But it’s truly a choose-your-own-adventure kind of product. You can use it as a body highlighter, mix a pump in with foundation, or even focus-apply it as a bronze contour or a wash of color on your eyelids.
The Results & First Impressions:
Straight out of the bottle, the Hue Drops Serum does look extreme (it reminds me of the Iconic London Illuminator Liquid Highlight), but it sheers out very quickly to a thin, almost watery texture, which makes it easy to cover your whole face with just one pump. But I couldn’t stop after the recommended two pumps and went straight for three, and honestly, I could have put on more — because of the light serum consistency, the color builds gradually, making it hard to overdo. It feels and smells the same as the original product (like watermelon), which made the experience feel like putting on skin care and not makeup.
To see what the Hue Drops Serum really could do, I tested it on my bare skin, which has been a bit red and irritated lately. Although the serum didn’t cover anything up per se, I did think it instantly softened the redness and spots with the bronze sheen.
Final Verdict:
I’m in love with the new Glow Recipe Hue Drops Sun Glow Serum — I think I was always going to because of my love of all things bronze — but I also believe this is a bronzer (and a skin care product) anyone can love. It looks good if it’s the only thing you put on your face, but it also still delivers some warmth if you’re the kind of person who never skips foundation.
The Hue Drops Serum definitely helps camouflage minor discoloration, so I can see myself wearing it alone on better skin days — but I think it also works brilliantly when you use it with concealer on trouble spots. The consistency plays well with makeup, so it doesn’t look like you’re putting beige concealer on top of bronzer.
I also prefer the all-in-one serum to mixing bronzer drops into moisturizer, which comes with the risk of getting the ratio wrong. With Hue Drops Serum, you could use it in a dark room and it would still give you an even glow.
|
https://www.nylon.com/beauty/glow-recipe-watermelon-glow-hue-drops-sun-glow-review
| 2024-01-30T11:30:45Z
|
blocked_url
|
Catherine Powell/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
SOUNDCHECK
Ice Spice’s (Un)seriously Fun Single & 9 Other New Songs Out This Week
(G)I-DLE makes girl power camp, and Justice and Tame Impala team up.
Every week, we bring you SOUNDCHECK — your destination for the best new music that hit the web over the course of the week. Because you should always be prepared when someone passes you that AUX cord. This week's roundup features 10 of our favorite emerging and established artists.
|
https://www.nylon.com/entertainment/soundcheck-1-29-2024-ice-spice-g-idle
| 2024-01-30T11:30:51Z
|
blocked_url
|
Music’s biggest night is just around the corner, which means so are appearances from some of the world’s biggest stars. So far, Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, and Dua Lipa are all set to attend and perform at the 2024 awards, but the biggest question mark in the air right now surrounds music’s unofficial woman of the year: Taylor Swift.
If you were anywhere near a screen at all in the past 365 days, you’d know the “Cruel Summer” singer had a massive 2023, including netting six Grammy Award nominations, the third most of all artists nominated this year. But will she be in attendance at the Feb. 4 ceremony? It turns out that’s a yes, according to Entertainment Weekly — but it’s unlikely she’ll be taking the stage as she’s set to fly to Tokyo immediately after to resume the Eras Tour, ET reports. (Starting Feb. 7, the singer is scheduled to perform four back-to-back shows at the city’s Tokyo Dome arena.) Alas, the duties of a global pop star ... though if there’s anyone to pull off the impossible, it’s Ms. Swift.
This year, the singer is up for awards in three of the four major Grammy categories: Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, as well as Best Pop Solo Performance, Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, and Best Pop Vocal Album, all for her 2023 record Midnights. Though we’re mourning the prospect of hearing “Anti-Hero” live, we’re keeping our fingers crossed for another Kelce and Swift smooch.
|
https://www.nylon.com/entertainment/taylor-swift-performing-grammys-2024
| 2024-01-30T11:30:57Z
|
blocked_url
|
Astrology
Your February 2024 Horoscope Offers A Chance At Closure
Aquarius, a Pisces cazimi, lessons from Saturn, and more.
Dating before the days of the golden calf, the earth sign Taurus has always been the sign of the god incarnate. And so, when Jupiter hit the bull’s sign in 1928, a new idol emerged. They called him Mickey Mouse. Nearly a century later, midway through another Jupiter in Taurus era, Mickey entered the public domain. One of the most recognizable monoliths of the corporate age is now free to be bent, broken, and put back together, as you like it. Taurus is ruled by Venus, and when it comes to icons for worship, Mickey’s got nothing on Barbie. The movie about a plastic idol becoming a real woman is now eligible to win a golden statue. Margot Robbie walked away from Barbie with a $50 million paycheck, as star and executive producer. But she was denied an Oscar nomination — and so continues the discourse.
We have indeed entered the Age of Aquarius, a utopian (or utilitarian) epoch of vaulted ideals and augmented realities. And yet, as evinced by the presence of Jupiter in Taurus, we’re not quite ready to leave behind this mortal dimension. Plastic, gold, stars, symbols, brands, bodies: It’s all still very real to us. Institutions matter. These dominating forces aren’t going anywhere any time soon. We can’t wash our hands of them. But what happens when a feminist director takes on a ubiquitous symbol of girlhood?
This month, Mercury, Mars, and Venus make their way into Aquarius to square Jupiter in Taurus. The air sign is all about hacking the system — and having fun while you’re at it. Why not remake Mickey Mouse into something meaningful to you? With Mars and Venus in the water bearer’s domain, and a new moon in Aquarius on Feb. 9, you’re invited to play. It’s not on you to fix the world or surgically remove any problematic aspect of your life. Instead, take everything from your style to those apocalyptic catastrophes weighing you down, put them through a synthesizer, and collage them into something new.
On Feb. 19, the sun enters Pisces, the final sign of the zodiac, to close out the winter before starting a new cycle. On Feb. 28, the sun and Mercury cazimi Saturn in Pisces, marking a definitive moment of synthesis and closure. Like it or not, the wheel keeps on turning. Honor all that you are and all the sh*t that’s gone down until this moment. Make it into art, hang it on the wall, and give it a nod before you walk out the door.
Opposing Pisces is Virgo, the sign that ends the summer. Six months ago, it was back-to-school season and time to get our act together for the fall ahead. Come Feb. 24, a full snow moon in Virgo hits us with a pang of excitement, daring us to look forward again. Virgo isn’t known for blind optimism, but for negotiating the complexities of the present to ensure a positive outcome. Aquarius is said to be the sign of Prometheus, the titan who gave fire to mortals. It’s not for us to topple the gods or wait for a perfect world order to arrive. But we can edit, interpret, and reimagine. You’re not only a consumer, but a creator. You have the power to make new meaning out of old symbols, to bring plastic to life. How would you like to shape reality?
Though horoscopes apply to sun signs, we suggest reading those for your rising, too.
ARIES & ARIES RISING
From 2023 through early 2025, the north node is in your home sign. We need your confidence and unique point of view to cut through the bullsh*t and bring us to life. You’re destined to lead. Come Feb. 19, the asteroid Chiron passes over the north node in Aries. Chiron was a centaur, a son of Saturn, who taught the Greek heroes the medicinal arts. As the ice thaws and you near your Aries season rebirth, consider all that you’ve healed and integrated over this long winter. You’re no longer an upstart or a rebel, but a wise master. What hard lessons have you learned and what do you have to teach us? There’s no need to prove yourself when you can naturally embody all you’ve lived through.
TAURUS & TAURUS RISING
Since May, Jupiter has been in your home sign, validating the choices you make for yourself. Trust what’s right for you, without compromising, and you’ll be rewarded. So what happens when all the personal planets move through Aquarius, the sign of compromise for the collective, in your 10th house of career and public life? You’re being called to honor yourself while serving something bigger. To emerge as a leader, you’ll have to learn to welcome advice without sacrificing your point of view. New opportunities await you, if you can look beyond your usual limits.
GEMINI & GEMINI RISING
This month’s full moon on Feb. 24 is known as the Hunger Moon. Lit by the sun in Pisces, in your 10th house of ambitions, this moon goes down in Virgo, in your fourth house of roots and essential drives. Something primordial is awakening from the molten core of your chart. Indeed, you’ve never been this hungry. It will be terrifying stepping into your potential, your mastery, and your eagerness for world domination. Make room for those inner parts that aren’t ready to scale the summit. Do whatever you need to feel grounded and cared for so you can fire at your dreams with all that you’ve got.
CANCER & CANCER RISING
Perhaps, in the past, it felt hard to look forward, to gasp for air when you were still in the eye of the hurricane. But something’s shifting, helping you plan ahead with optimism. On Feb. 19, the sun enters Pisces, in your ninth house of spiritual growth and expanding horizons. That same day, the asteroid Chiron hits the north node, in Aries, in your 10th house of ambition. With some necessary mourning for time lost and for all those who won’t be joining you, you’re ready to take your higher power by the hand and pop off into the future. For the first two weeks of the month, Mars and Venus are still hanging and banging in Capricorn, in your seventh house of others. If you’re really stepping through the portal, now’s the time to recruit your fellow travelers. Show up to every date and encounter with optimism and few expectations. Who knows what role these new lights will play in your future?
LEO & LEO RISING
This month, the lovers Mars and Venus hit Aquarius, in your seventh house of others, just as the sun and Mercury enter Pisces, in your eighth house of unions and partnerships. While in Aquarius, the planets will square Taurus, in your 10th house of grand ambitions. As you look ahead on all that’s possible in 2024, consider the role your relationships play. Where are you going and who do you need to take you there? They say that when the student is ready, the master appears. It’s time to declare whom you’re seeking it out: a mentor? A soulmate? A one-night stand that will ignite your self-esteem? For those relationships which are already established — from engagements to creative partnerships — what’s the plan for the year ahead? What are your agreements? How can you best honor one another moving forward? Now’s the time to bring relationships into the business so you can rule the world together.
VIRGO & VIRGO RISING
This month, Venus and Mars arrive in Aquarius, in your sixth house of the body and boundaries. From the superficial to the psychedelic, how do you want to be living? Now’s the time to radically rethink everything from your work schedule to your workout routine. As the sun and Mercury join Saturn in Pisces, in your seventh house of others, they introduce you to the teachers and collaborators who can make your fully embodied lifestyle a reality. Consider the full moon in Virgo on Feb. 24 to be an unshakable declaration of your uniqueness. Who helped you get here and what changes did you make to bring them into your life? Consider the space you’ve opened up in your relationship life. It was worth it, wasn’t it?
LIBRA & LIBRA RISING
Last month’s Capricorn firestorm hit your fourth house of home and roots, forcing necessary, albeit difficult, conversations with your family. Now that you’ve returned from the underworld, it’s time to shake off the limits of the past. Pisces season illuminates your sixth house of boundaries, where Saturn awaits the transiting planets. Even if you’re free from your old restrictions, how are you still holding yourself back? On Feb. 28, a full moon in Virgo, in your 12th house of unprocessed wounds, reveals the demons you still answer to. It’s time to face whatever inner authority still terrorizes you, step into the mansion à la Sidney Prescott in Scream 3, and take back control of your life.
SCORPIO & SCORPIO RISING
Pluto is now in Aquarius, in your fourth house of home and roots. In your Pluto in Aquarius horoscopes, we foretold a karmic odyssey through your ancestry, yielding revelations and gifts from the highest reaches of your family tree. The voyage begins now, as Mercury, Mars, and Venus cross through Pluto’s gates in your fourth house. Make space this month for dinnertime conversations with your favorite aunt and even a few movie nights with your childhood VHS favorites. Something deep is getting worked out. We know that Jupiter is still banging on in Taurus, in your seventh house of others, recruiting new people into your life. Invite guides and friends to help make sense of all you’re processing. This is one hell of a journey you’re about to undertake. Why go through it alone?
SAGITTARIUS & SAGITTARIUS RISING
It hasn’t even been a year since Saturn entered Pisces, in your fourth house of home and family, but the transformation has been definitive. Saturn is rooting you down to the earth — be it through a rediscovery of your lineage, a reconciliation with your family of origin, or the development of a base of operations here on terra firma. Now, they begin to take form in your daily life and relationships. On Feb. 24, the sun in Pisces lights up a full moon in Virgo, in your 10th house of career and ambitions, connecting your pie-in-the-sky dreams to the firmament of your reality. And on the 28th, a sun-Mercury-Saturn cazimi brings all this redefinition to the surface. Accept what’s shifted and embrace it. The changes have begun to set in stone.
CAPRICORN & CAPRICORN RISING
The new year’s momentum shows no sign of slowing, as Mars and Venus go hard in your home sign for the first two weeks of the month. Now is the time for tangible and finite action with some much-needed fuel for your spiritual arsenal. On Feb. 19, the healing asteroid Chiron hits the north node, in Aries, in your fourth house of home and family. Then, on the 28th, a full moon in Virgo illuminates your ninth house of spiritual expansion. To make this a sustained year of growth and possibility, it’s time to fill your cup. Make a full moon altar in your living room and list everything you’re grateful for at bedtime. Power this propulsion with something other than caffeine and ambition so it doesn’t burn out.
AQUARIUS & AQUARIUS RISING
This isn’t your usual Aquarius season. Now that Pluto’s set up shop in your home sign, the planets crossing through Aquarius will have to undergo individual rebirth cycles. As Mercury, Venus, and Mars enter your sign this month with action and inspiration, they’ll cross the Plutonian netherworld. Sometimes, our brightest moments come with a little grief. That’s OK. Learn how to dance with a multitude of feelings. This is not the time to lose step. With a new moon in Aquarius on Feb. 9, and a spectacular Venus-Mars conjunction on the 22nd, it’s a bold new beginning. Feel it all and let it move through you.
PISCES & PISCES RISING
You may find yourself acting against your best interest during the first two weeks of the month. As planets move through Aquarius, in your 12th house of the unprocessed, they square Taurus, in your second house of earning and self-worth. If you find yourself blacking out at 3 a.m. and spending $400 on non-refundable lingerie or texting your ex, go easy on yourself. Some part of you needs to put back in the oven for a little more baking. Pay attention to where you’re crying out for help, because the lights come on Feb. 19 with the advent of Pisces season. The sun will cazimi both Mercury and Saturn on the 28th for a rare and triumphant moment of clarity and action. You’ll be grateful for the time you took to work through the shadows.
|
https://www.nylon.com/life/february-2024-horoscope-aquarius-pisces
| 2024-01-30T11:31:03Z
|
blocked_url
|
Culture
Ponyboi Stars Victoria Pedretti & River Gallo Talk Mob Wives & Garden State
The leads of the queer Sundance Film Festival breakout hit share the film’s unlikely origin story.
Ponyboi is a pressure cooker of sequins and bullets. Taking place over 24 hours on Valentine’s Day in early ’00s New Jersey, the film follows Ponyboi (River Gallo), a pink Motorola Razr-toting intersex sex worker. After a drug deal goes bad, Ponyboi is on the run from drug dealer Vinnie (Dylan O’Brien), who’s married to Ponyboi’s childhood friend Angel (Victoria Pedretti), a full-fledged glam mob wife, complete with mink coat and razor-thin eyebrows. Gallo also wrote the film, which debuted at Sundance Film Festival earlier this month, and it’s as much a love letter to New Jersey’s high-wire mob associations as it is a hypnotic meditation on intersex identity.
Gallo originally wrote, directed, and starred in a short film of the same name, which premiered in 2019, when Gallo says they became the first intersex actor to play an intersex character. Now, it continues: Gallo is the first intersex actor to play an intersex character in a feature film. “The weight of that is not lost on me,” Gallo tells NYLON. “But also I’m learning to celebrate that more.”
Below, NYLON caught up with Gallo and Pedretti following the film's premiere, where they talked about everything from the current mob wife moment to their love of Garden State.
River, where did the initial inspiration for Ponyboi come from?
It came from a performance-art theater piece I made at NYU, which was inspired by a trip to Walmart. I don't think I shared this story with anybody yet. I was standing in line at a New Jersey Walmart and I saw this baby in a stroller with a pacifier that said “I love my daddy.” She was a girl, I'm assuming, because she was in pink. I looked at this child and I was like, “How does she know that she loves her father at this stage in her life?”
The wheels started turning around gender: this young girl and this assumption that she already loves her dad. I spun this story around a queer sex worker in New Jersey who had daddy issues that would later become the foundation of the theater piece. I used that as inspiration to make the short film. I wanted to express my experiences around being intersex and my relationship with my dad and my family.
Victoria, what attracted you to the script?
One of the main things that drew me to the script was River. I enjoyed spending time with them and the conversations we were having about art. I think the most important films to be made are the ones that deal with subject matters that people aren't well-versed in and with characters they haven't seen before. This was an incredible opportunity for that to happen. I'm really interested in stories about worlds that people don't necessarily get to see a lot, especially when it comes to queer identity.
How did you go about creating this fabulous mob wife character?
VP: I love Angel. I've admired so many women like her. It was fun to embrace this place and this time. I spent a lot of time with the look. Angel doesn't just happen. She's a whole process. I went to this eyebrow threader in New Jersey and I was like, “Can you do this [thin brow]?” And she was like, “Are you sure? I don't want to do this to you. We learned in the late ’90s, early ’00s, this isn't it.” There were a lot of late nights trying to get self-tanner into areas that were very hard to reach.
How do you feel about the current mob-wife trend?
RG: We were ahead of the culture. I was jokingly telling my friends, “My culture is not your costume.” These girls wish they're from New Jersey or the East Coast. I think it's really funny because the timing could not be more ironic that we release this movie at the same time everyone's having nostalgia specifically for The Sopranos and the early aughts, and now the mob-wife aesthetic, which is the whole vibe of the movie.
Do you have any favorite New Jersey movies or TV shows?
RG: I love The Sopranos. Garden State is one of my favorite movies. It was one of those moments of early ’00s indie sleaze where you're like, “I am a real person with artistic taste and sensibility.”
VP: That was one of those movies where I was like, “These independent films are where it's at. These are the movies I feel are really saying and doing something interesting.”
Can you talk more about the role of New Jersey in the film and what it was like shooting there?
RG: We shot the laundromat a few blocks away from where my parents live. We shot in Asbury Park, which was really meaningful to me because that's where I decided the name of the short film would be Ponyboi, based on the Asbury Park music venue Stone Pony. It’s one of the first venues where Bruce Springsteen played professionally. The crew was all New York and New Jersey people, so everyone was clued in on what we were trying to make. It was a very fun, wild, and sometimes intense set, but I think the results felt very authentic to the actual material.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
|
https://www.nylon.com/life/river-gallo-victoria-pedretti-ponyboi-interview
| 2024-01-30T11:31:09Z
|
blocked_url
|
Russia has strengthened its energy stronghold over Uzbekistan with increased oil and gas supplies to this fast-growing former Soviet republic, severely sidelining the Central Asian country’s neighbours Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan as alternative sources.
Uzbekistan received its imports of Russian crude via a pipeline and rail lines that cross Kazakhstan, with pipeline volumes set to increase by 10% to more than 4 million barrels of oil this year under a new agreement, according to Kazakh state run oil pipeline operator Kaztransoil.
Russia sent 1.1 million barrels of crude last year to Uzbekistan after resuming exports via Kazakhstan, halted in 2019.
Russia has been keen on increasing its energy supplies to Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and other former Soviet countries in Central Asia as it looks to build international support following its invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.
At the end of November last year, Kaztransoil said Uzbekistan’s largest oil producer, Saneg, had notified the Kazakh operator that it has an option to boost its imports of Russian crude to over 7.3 million barrels in 2024.
The imports would outweigh Uzbekistan’s domestic output by Saneg, state owned Uzbekneftegaz and several other producers, which according to statistical reports in Tashkent, last year produced about 5.8 million barrels of oil.
As well as operating several major oilfields in Uzbekistan, Saneg controls the country’s largest oil refinery, Fergana.
Built during the Soviet era, the Fergana plant once boasted a nameplate oil processing capacity of more than 120,000 barrels per day.
However, its current capacity is assessed at about 40,000 bpd, despite recent upgrades.
Saneg is owned by influential Uzbek businessman Bakhtiyer Fazylov, who also has interests in oilfield service and construction businesses in the country.
Saneg declined to comment to Upstream, citing “commercial confidentiality issues”.
Despite the higher transit costs and more complex logistics for Uzbekistan’s imports of Russian crude, as both pipeline and rail cars have to be used, the increased volumes for this year are expected to further decrease oil imports from neighbours Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.
However, Kazakh news outlet Tengrinews has quoted Kazakstan’s Deputy Energy Minister Erlan Akkenzhenov as denying there was increased competition from Russia to supply Uzbekistan.
If Tashkent “is ready to offer the price and terms to Kazakh producers that are better compared with deliveries to China or other export destinations, we will be prepared to consider higher oil supplies” to Uzbekistan, Akkenzhenov said.
According to the latest available statistics in Astana, Kazakhstan exported 340,000 barrels of oil to Uzbekistan between January and September 2023, despite an initial annual allocation of 2.2 million barrels for the entire year.
Meanwhile, Russian gas giant Gazprom was contracted to deliver 2.8 billion cubic metres of gas to Uzbekistan in 2023, with a contract expected to be renewed later this year.
Uzbekistan’s population of 35.2 million is the highest among former Soviet Central Asian republics and is forecast to continue growing by over 2200 each day this year, according to the Countrymeters website.
Read more
- Re-elected Uzbek president expected to strengthen energy ties with Russia
- Gazprom directors take Europe off its list of targeted markets
- Kazakhstan confident over price in Russian gas supply deal
- Uzbekistan’s largest oil producer beats odds to boost recovery
- Turkmenistan halts gas exports to energy-starved Uzbekistan
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/energy-security/russia-bolsters-hold-over-uzbekistan-energy-security/2-1-1590189
| 2024-01-30T11:31:26Z
|
blocked_url
|
The first-ever offshore oil and gas project in the Falkland Islands is gathering momentum under the guidance of a new operator with a revised and more modest development plan and an optimistic project sanction target.
The Sea Lion project can potentially have significant scale, and could be the starting point for the development of other discovered oil deposits in the North Falkland basin, which has an updated certified gross best estimate resource of 791 million barrels of oil.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/exclusive/sea-lion-roars-falkland-islands-first-project-picks-up-speed/2-1-1590214
| 2024-01-30T11:31:32Z
|
blocked_url
|
The huge offshore cable-laying vessel Leonardo da Vinci is poised to kick off operations on Abu Dhabi National Oil Company’s (Adnoc's) $3.8 billion landmark Lightning project that aims to significantly reduce the carbon footprint at some of Abu Dhabi’s largest offshore oilfields.
The advanced cable-laying vessel owned by the Prysmian Group arrived in the UAE from Europe for an initial four-month period and will lay bundled cabling along the first 134-kilometre segment, before returning later to lay cables along a second 141-kilometre route, WAM — the official news agency of the United Arab Emirates — reported on Monday.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/field-development/huge-cable-laying-vessel-poised-to-kick-off-work-on-landmark-3-8-billion-adnoc-project/2-1-1590384
| 2024-01-30T11:31:38Z
|
blocked_url
|
Independent Medco Energi’s touted Paus Biru gas field development on the Sampang production sharing contract offshore East Java, Indonesia is facing at least a two-year delay, according to a project partner.
The Paus Biru development envisages a single well and wellhead platform at the offshore field, as well as a 27-kilometre subsea pipeline to connect the well to existing Oyong field infrastructure.
Subject to final approvals, production start-up is now expected to commence in 2027 at a rate of 20 million to 25 million cubic feet per day of gas. As recently as last year, first gas from the Paus Biru field had been touted for 2025, but that schedule has well and truly slipped.
Discussions between the Sampang operator Medco and the Indonesian government continued during the fourth quarter and the joint venture now expects to apply for a production extension for the existing Wortel and Oyong fields on the block and for Paus Biru, when it is developed, Sampang co-venturer Cue Energy confirmed on Monday.
The proposal has government support although the regulations required to implement it are still being finalised, added Cue, which said the approval is likely to be in the second half of this year.
Subject to approval of an extension for the producing fields, the Sampang partners will also seek changes to the terms of PSC for the Paus Biru development. The PSC amendments and extension are key steps required for the joint venture to take the final investment decision for the project.
Medco operates the Sampang PSC while Cue has a 15% interest.
Upstream approached Medco’s representative for the company’s comment on Cue’s statement but it declined to so do.
Meanwhile, Cue is continuing to progress the relinquishment of its 100% operated Mahakam Hilir PSC, also in Indonesia, which expired in April 2021.
“The timing of full relinquishment of the PSC is being defined by Indonesian government administrative processes. During the [fourth] quarter [2023], progress was made on the key items of land certification and government auction of surplus equipment,” said Cue.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/field-development/two-year-delay-on-cards-at-indonesian-offshore-project/2-1-1590257
| 2024-01-30T11:31:51Z
|
blocked_url
|
South Korean contractor Samsung Engineering saw its fourth-quarter 2023 net profit and revenues fall while operating profit increased compared to the same period in the previous year.
The Asian player registered a net profit of 112.4 billion won ($84.3 million) on revenues of 2.8 trillion won for the three months ended 31 December, while operating profit for the fourth quarter was 269.9
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/finance/asian-heavyweight-eyes-10-billion-in-new-orders/2-1-1590426
| 2024-01-30T11:31:58Z
|
blocked_url
|
Singapore’s Seatrium has cautioned that its 2023 loss will be significantly higher than in the previous year, as it expects to make a “material non-cash write-down” pertaining to the surplus non-core assets, and excess and obsolete inventories as the company positions itself for future value creation.
Seatrium, the nation’s leading offshore, marine and energy contractor — which came into being last year following the merger of Sembcorp Marine and Keppel Offshore & Marine — on Tuesday confirmed that while the company anticipates operational and financial performance to continue to improve, it expects to make a net loss for the 2023 financial year.
Seatrium made a 2022 net loss of S$261 million (US$195 million) at the current Forex rate, while the company was in the red to the tune of S$264.4 million for the first half of 2023 on the back of revenues totalling S$2.9 billion for the six months ended 30 June last year.
“In line with the group’s business transformation, management undertook a strategic review of its business focus, operational footprint and assets required to support its strategy of building a profitable and resilient business going forward. It has since completed the review, and identified core assets which bring synergies to the group, as well as non-core assets which are surplus to its operations that would be written down,” said Seatrium.
The company added that as a result of the strategic review, the closure of surplus non-core assets and write-down of excess and obsolete inventories are expected to improve its productivity, optimise its cost structure and reduce cash operating expenses, resulting in significant value creation in the medium to long term.
“Accordingly, the group is expected to make a material non-cash write-down pertaining to the surplus non-core assets and excess and obsolete inventories in the current financial year. This will result in a financial loss that is significantly higher than the previous year.”
Seatrium is in the process of finalising the unaudited consolidated financial results for the six months and full year ended 31 December 2023, which will take into account this assessment, and will be released on 26 February.
The company further advised shareholders and investors to exercise caution when dealing in the group’s shares.
“In the event of any doubt, they should consult their stockbrokers, bank managers, solicitors or other professional advisors,” said Seatrium.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/finance/seatriums-2023-net-loss-to-be-significantly-higher-than-previous-year/2-1-1590379
| 2024-01-30T11:32:04Z
|
blocked_url
|
Adnoc Gas, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, has signed a liquefied natural gas supply deal with a leading Indian player, as the Emirati giant continues to expand its presence in the Asian market.
Adnoc is building a 9.6 million tonnes per LNG export terminal at Al Ruwais in Abu Dhabi to cater to several international gas markets.
The Al Ruwais facility is crucial to Abu Dhabi’s ambition to emerge as a key gas exporter in the Middle East region.
Adnoc Gas has concluded a long-term LNG agreement to supply around 500,000 tpa of LNG to Gail, the Indian player confirmed on Monday.
“Under this agreement, the deliveries will commence from 2026 onwards for a duration of 10 years across India,” Gail noted.
The LNG supply deal follows an initial memorandum of understanding signed between the two parties in 2022, involving exploring opportunities in potential areas of collaboration.
Sandeep Kumar Gupta, managing director of Gail, said that the long-term LNG deal with Adnoc “will contribute to bridging the gap in India’s demand and supply of natural gas and will open more avenues of strategic partnership between Gail and Adnoc in other areas of energy domain".
Adnoc Gas last year signed multiple LNG supply deals, together valued at between $9.4 billion and $12 billion, as the state giant continues to invest heavily in gas-based developments.
In October, it signed a multi-year LNG supply deal with Japan’s Jera, valued “between $500 million and $700 million”, Upstream reported.
Adnoc Gas also signed multiple long-term LNG supply agreements in 2023 including deals with PetroChina International, Japan Petroleum Exploration Company, French giant TotalEnergies and India Oil Corporation.
Read more
- Adnoc snaps up key stake in European carbon capture player
- Rival contracting groups submit offers for multibillion-dollar Adnoc gas export facility
- Aramco, Adnoc and ExxonMobil among 50 oil and gas companies committing to net zero, methane targets at COP28
- European contracting giant kicks off work on strategic Adnoc gas facility
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/lng/adnoc-subsidiary-signs-key-gas-supply-deal-with-asian-player/2-1-1590380
| 2024-01-30T11:32:11Z
|
blocked_url
|
China is at the forefront of the escalating costs in floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel fabrication anticipated through 2024 and 2025, propelled by surging labour and material rates.
Analysis by Rystad Energy indicates that hull construction costs at Chinese shipyards are projected to increase by 3.15% from 2024 to 2025.
This upward trajectory can be attributed to higher wages resulting from the labour-intensive nature of hull construction coupled with increased manufacturing overheads and escalating base metal prices.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/rigs-and-vessels/fpso-hull-prices-surge-on-labour-and-material-costs-rystad/2-1-1590371
| 2024-01-30T11:32:17Z
|
blocked_url
|
Security issues in Israel have forced London-listed Energean to cancel a contract awarded to McDermott International to install a key module on its Karish floating production, storage and offloading vessel.
Since war erupted between Israel and Iran-backed Hamas after the Gaza-based militants murdered 1200 Israelis on 7 October, the Israeli government has placed restrictions on oil and gas activities in its waters.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/rigs-and-vessels/mcdermott-contract-cancelled-due-to-israel-hamas-war/2-1-1590297
| 2024-01-30T11:32:23Z
|
blocked_url
|
Seatrium has delivered Singapore’s first membrane liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker vessel that it built locally to compatriot owner Indah Singa Maritime, a wholly owned subsidiary of Japan’s Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL).
Following delivery, Brassavola will be chartered by Pavilion Energy to supply LNG bunker in the Port of Singapore. The vessel, which is expected to commence operations in February, will also be deployed by TotalEnergies Marine Fuels to serve its customers under a long-term agreement with Pavilion. Brassavola was constructed based on a proprietary design by LMG Marin, a wholly owned subsidiary of Seatrium.
“The completion of the Brassavola is a significant step forward in transitioning towards the use of cleaner and decarbonised fuels like LNG in Singapore. We look forward to seeing Brassavola in operations very soon, setting new standards in LNG bunkering and further strengthening Singapore's position as a global LNG bunkering hub,” commented Kazuya Hamazaki, MOL managing executive officer.
Measuring 116.5 metres in length and 22 metres wide, the vessel incorporates state-of-the-art technology, including superior loading and faster bunkering rate of up to 2000 cubic metres per hour, mass flow metering and online gas chromatograph systems, for improved bunkering turnover and enhanced operational efficiency.
Brassavola utilises dual-fuel engines, allowing the vessel to run on marine LNG for cleaner and lower-carbon operation, while the vessel’s advanced reliquefaction technology also enables more efficient boil-off gas management, which reduces carbon emissions.
Louise Tricoire, vice president of TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, said: “The Brassavola plays an important part in our global LNG bunker strategy and in our ambition to help the shipping industry decarbonise using a range of low-carbon fuels. Her arrival will complement our current LNG bunker services in the European hubs of Rotterdam and Marseille, as we take our LNG bunker expertise into new markets.”
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/rigs-and-vessels/seatrium-delivers-novel-lng-vessel/2-1-1590391
| 2024-01-30T11:32:31Z
|
blocked_url
|
A number of international offshore drilling contractors with an exposure to Saudi Arabia have seen their share prices drop after the Middle East energy giant announced a paused in its oil production capacity expansion plans.
Saudi Arabia’s offshore sector is a shallow-water play, which means that jack-up drilling rigs are deployed in the country.
Norway-listed jack-up drillers Borr Drilling and Shelf Drilling have seen their stock prices sink on Tuesday by 8.8% and 10.4%, respectively.
Borr has a fleet of three jack-ups contracted to Saudi Aramco, while Shelf has nine, according to rig market analyst Clarksons.
New York-listed driller Valaris has also seen a small drop in its share price in early trading, down 0.3%.
Valaris has exposure to Saudi Arabia through the eight jack-ups that are contracted to the country.
Other drillers with an exposure to Saudi Arabia's offshore play include Ades, SinoOcean, Arabian Drilling, China Merchants, China National Offshore Corporation and Aro Drilling, according to Clarksons.
The onshore arena in Saudi Arabia hosts a very large number of drilling rigs. International companies with a Saudi exposure include Nabors with 51 rigs in Saudi and Saipem with 28, and both contractors were trading slightly higher.
On Tuesday, Aramco — the world’s largest oil exporter — was instructed by the Saudi government to pause the further expansion of its oil production capacity.
It will maintain its maximum sustainable capacity at 12 million barrels per day and pause on the increase to 13 million bpd.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/rigs-and-vessels/share-prices-drop-for-offshore-drillers-with-saudi-exposure/2-1-1590637
| 2024-01-30T11:32:38Z
|
blocked_url
|
Bermuda-domiciled rig contractor Seadrill has boosted its order book by around $97.5 million with new contracts for its sixth-generation drillship West Capella and seventh-generation drillship West Vela.
US independent Talos Production has chartered the West Vela for a contract with an estimated duration of 150 days in the US Gulf of Mexico. This charter, which is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2024, represents a total contract value of approximately $73.5 million, excluding managed pressure drilling (MPD) services.
The West Vela is currently working for Beacon Offshore in the US Gulf of Mexico on a contract due to expire in May. The drillship then has a short-term campaign, also in the US Gulf, with an undisclosed operator. Seadrill earlier said this contract, which is expected to complete in August, will be after the West Vela transitions to Seadrill from the third-party manager.
Meanwhile, the operator of the West Capella has exercised a one-well option with the existing third-party manager, extending its operations by approximately two months. The contract is in direct continuation of the rig’s current programme and represents a total contract value of approximately $24 million, Seadrill said on Monday.
The West Capella is currently drilling Harbour Energy's Gayo-1 wildcat on the Andaman II production sharing contract offshore Indonesia.
Also, Seadrill has been advised by the current manager of the West Auriga that this seventh-generation drillship now will be released in February 2024 due to changes in client BP’s drilling sequence — the UK supermajor had been expected to keen the unit on hire in the US Gulf of Mexico through May this year.
This move enables Seadrill to resume management of the rig in the first quarter, accelerate preparation for the drillship’s $577 million 1064-day contract with Petrobras in Brazil — which is due to start in the second half of 2024 — and more quickly achieve synergies from the 2023 acquisition of Aquadrill.
“It is a pleasure to extend our contractual relationship with our longstanding client, Talos Energy. We also look forward to getting Seadrill coveralls back onboard the West Auriga,” said Simon Johnson, Seadrill's chief executive.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/rigs-and-vessels/us-and-se-asia-charters-boost-seadrills-order-book/2-1-1590387
| 2024-01-30T11:32:44Z
|
blocked_url
|
Italian contractor Saipem on Monday confirmed that early this morning an incident occurred on its Castorone pipelay vessel offshore Australia during normal pipelaying operations at Woodside Energy’s Scarborough gas project.
There were no fatalities or injuries reported to personnel although there was localised damage to the trunkline, which will be remediated, said Saipem. The Castorone vessel did not sustain any major damage.
“The health and safety of our personnel, of the environment and our assets is a top priority for Saipem,” added the Milan-headquartered company.
Saipem’s workscope involves the coating, transportation and installation of the Scarborough trunkline at a maximum water depth of 1400 metres, including the fabrication and installation of the line structures and of the pipeline end termination in a 950-metre water depth.
Scarborough will be exploited through new offshore facilities connected by an approximately 430-kilometre export trunkline with a 36-inch and 32-inch diameter trunkline to a second liquefaction train (Pluto Train 2) at the existing Pluto LNG onshore facility in Western Australia.
Most of the offshore work is being performed by the pipelay vessel Castorone under a contract that Woodside awarded in early 2022.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/safety/incident-on-saipem-pipelay-vessel-offshore-australia/2-1-1590590
| 2024-01-30T11:32:46Z
|
blocked_url
|
Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil exporter, is to pause further expansion of its oil production capacity following a governmental directive.
“Aramco announces that it has received a directive from the Ministry of Energy to maintain its maximum sustainable capacity (MSC) at 12 million barrels per day and not to continue increasing MSC to 13 million bpd,” the company said in a statement on Tuesday.
|
https://www.upstreamonline.com/field-development/saudi-aramco-shocks-industry-with-sudden-pause-in-capacity-expansion-plans/2-1-1590403
| 2024-01-30T11:33:26Z
|
blocked_url
|
ISLAMABAD - Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's 10-year jail sentence under the official secrets act is the latest in a series of ups and downs for the charismatic cricket star who is barred from elections next week but looms large over the country's politics.
Khan, 71, has been fighting dozens of cases since he was ousted from power in a parliamentary vote of no confidence in 2022. He was sentenced to three years jail in a corruption case in August, which has ruled him out of the Feb. 8 general elections.
Opinion polls early last year said Khan was the South Asian nation's most popular leader. A brief arrest in May on separate corruption charges sparked deadly unrest across the country at a time of economic crisis.
He has denied any wrongdoing, telling Reuters in June the military - which has ruled Pakistan for most of its history since independence in 1947 - and its intelligence agency were trying to destroy his political party.
The military, which controls some of the nuclear-armed nation's biggest economic institutions, has said it is neutral towards politics.
Once criticised as being under the thumb of the generals, Khan had a falling out with the then-army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, which led to his ouster.
He has said the army, now under General Asim Munir, still targets him and his party, charges the army denies.
The violence after his May arrest may have brought tensions to a head with the military, as his supporters ransacked army establishments in multiple cities.
Some leaders of Khan's political party quit after the violence. Thousands of party workers also remain under arrest, the party says.
In 2018, the cricket legend who led Pakistan to its only World Cup win in 1992, rallied the country behind his vision of a corruption-free, prosperous nation respected abroad. But the firebrand nationalist's fame and charisma were not enough.
ROAD TO POWER
Khan rose to power more than two decades after he launched Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), the Pakistan Movement for Justice party. Despite his fame and status as a hero in cricket-mad Pakistan, PTI languished in Pakistan's political wilderness, not winning a seat other than Khan's for 17 years.
In 2011, Khan began drawing huge crowds of young Pakistanis disillusioned with endemic corruption, chronic electricity shortages and crises in education and unemployment.
He drew even greater backing in the ensuing years, with educated Pakistani expatriates leaving their jobs to work for his party and pop musicians and actors joining his campaign.
His goal, Khan told supporters in 2018, was to turn Pakistan from a country with a "small group of wealthy and a sea of poor" into an "example for a humane system, a just system, for the world, of what an Islamic welfare state is".
He won the election, a sporting hero at the pinnacle of politics. Observers cautioned, however, that his biggest enemy was his own rhetoric, having raised supporters' hopes sky high.
PLAYBOY TO REFORMER
Born in 1952, Khan grew up with four sisters in an affluent urban Pashtun family in Lahore, Pakistan's second-biggest city.
After a privileged education, he went on to the University of Oxford, where he graduated with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics.
As his cricket career flourished, he developed a playboy reputation in London in the late 1970s.
In 1995, he married Jemima Goldsmith, daughter of business tycoon James Goldsmith. The couple, who had two sons, divorced in 2004. A second marriage, to TV journalist Reham Nayyar Khan, also ended in divorce.
His third marriage, to Bushra Bibi, a spiritual leader whom Khan came to know during his visits to a 13th century shrine in Pakistan, reflected his deepening interest in Sufism - a form of Islamic practice that emphasises spiritual closeness to God.
Once in power, Khan embarked on a plan of building a welfare state modelled on what he said was an ideal system dating back to the Islamic world some 14 centuries earlier.
But his anti-corruption drive was heavily criticised as a tool for sidelining political opponents - many of whom were imprisoned on charges of graft.
Pakistan's generals also remained powerful and military officers, retired and serving, were placed in charge of more than a dozen civilian institutions.
Khan was pushed out as premier in April 2022 amid public frustration at high inflation, rising deficits and endemic corruption that he had promised to stamp out.
The Supreme Court overturned his decision to dissolve parliament, and defections from his ruling coalition meant he lost a subsequent no-confidence vote.
With that, Khan became the latest in an unbroken line of elected Pakistani prime ministers who did not serve their full terms. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/imran-khan-pakistans-cricket-star-turned-pm-jailed-for-10-years
| 2024-01-30T11:44:34Z
|
blocked_url
|
MOSCOW - The Kremlin, asked on Tuesday about potential U.S. strikes on Iranian interests, said tensions in the Middle East were high and that steps were needed to de-escalate rather than destabilise the wider region.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday vowed the U.S. would take "all necessary actions" to defend its troops after a deadly drone attack in Jordan by Iran-backed militants, even as President Joe Biden's administration stressed it was not seeking a war with Iran.
"We do not welcome any actions that lead to destabilisation in the region and increase tensions, especially against the backdrop of the excessive potential for conflict," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
"We will not welcome the continuation of such actions, regardless of who they come from. The level of tension is high now and we need to take steps to de-escalate. This is what will prevent the conflict from spreading."
Russia enjoys increasingly close ties with Iran at a time when its ties with the United States are at their lowest level since the 1962 Cuban missile crisis over what Moscow calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/kremlin-asked-about-potential-us-strikes-on-iran-calls-for-all-sides-to-de-escalate
| 2024-01-30T11:44:44Z
|
blocked_url
|
BANGKOK/ NEW DELHI - For the first time since Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, the junta has sent a senior official to take part in an Asean foreign ministers’ meeting. Instead of sitting out the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Retreat on Jan 29 because the bloc had barred it from sending a political appointee, the junta dispatched the permanent secretary of the foreign ministry under its control.
Few expect the junta’s climbdown on Jan 29 to expand any time soon to dialogue that will end the spiralling humanitarian crisis. But the balance of power in Myanmar is slowly shifting, leaving Myanmar’s neighbours grappling with good ways to hedge their bets against an embattled junta.
For now, no country looks better placed than China. “Operation 1027”, launched by the Three Brotherhood Alliance of ethnic armed groups in October 2023, toppled junta control in at least 17 towns in northern Shan state near the Chinese border and resulted in the mass surrender of over 2,000 junta soldiers as well as six brigadier-generals. Notably, the alliance made a show of clearing out the online scam operations that Beijing had been appealing to the junta to root out – but to no avail.
Beijing flexed its influence by brokering a ceasefire on Jan 12 that essentially cemented these new territorial positions. Under the “Haigeng Agreement” inked in the Chinese city of Kunming, both sides agreed not to attack each other’s positions, as well as to avoid harming Chinese nationals or destroying Chinese investments in Myanmar.
“The new status quo was consolidated in writing, in the ceasefire agreement in Kunming,” Ms Yun Sun, director of the China Programme at Stimson Centre, a United States-based think-tank, told The Straits Times. “That means the Chinese are pleased with the status quo.”
It remains to be seen if this ceasefire will hold, as other armed groups not party to the agreement have tried to capitalise on the momentum to topple the junta elsewhere in the country.
But China is continuing work along the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, including surveys for the future railway that will link Yunnan to the Chinese-backed port project in Myanmar’s Kyaukphyu, along the coast of the Bay of Bengal that opens to the Indian Ocean.
Ms Sun thinks that all parties will try to avoid damaging Chinese interests even if fighting intensifies.
“I don’t think we should estimate how much influence China has in that region or in that area. Any group that targets the Chinese projects will face mounting pressure and tremendous pressure in its future survival,” she said.
Over in India, the fallout from Operation 1027 has prompted a rethink among the establishment, with many arguing that the Myanmar junta is in no position to defend India’s interests and calling for New Delhi to instead support resistance forces more actively.
“Because the junta is not in a position to ensure political stability, it is also not going to be able to provide the social and economic fertile ground needed for foreign investment and projects to go ahead in Myanmar,” said Mr Angshuman Choudhury, an associate fellow with the Centre for Policy Research, a New Delhi-based think-tank.
“In that sense, the junta is a volatile partner, which is not good news for any country wanting to invest in Myanmar.”
India’s interests in Myanmar include its geostrategic investments, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project connecting the eastern Indian seaport of Kolkata with Sittwe seaport in Myanmar’s Rakhine state – key components of the government’s wider strategic outreach to South-east Asia.
Other key interests are India’s desire to limit China’s influence in the region and ensure militant groups that target India in the north-east do not use Myanmar as a sanctuary. According to Mr Choudhury, these goals have floundered since the coup as key territories with Indian interests and investment – such as Khampat on the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway – fell under rebel control, and China steals a march over India with its more proactive engagement with resistance forces.
Thousands of Myanmar people have also sought refuge in India, and New Delhi has accused Myanmar-based groups of crossing the porous border to mount attacks in its territory and smuggling contraband goods. This has prompted New Delhi to recently announce that it would fence the Indian-Myanmar border and potentially end an arrangement that allows liberal cross-border movement of locals in that vicinity.
While it will not be easy for New Delhi to move away from its almost singular reliance on the junta, with which it has developed strategic links, Mr Choudhury says it should ramp up engagement with Myanmar’s shadow National Unity Government (NUG) “at the highest level”, which would also enable it to reach out to armed resistance groups under the NUG’s control.
The role of Thailand, another of Myanmar’s neighbours, is similarly ripe for a rethink. Thailand has received many appeals to create a humanitarian corridor since the coup. The new government under the Pheu Thai Party has recently pledged to establish a centre for humanitarian aid by the border – though it seems to have engaged only with the junta or junta-controlled agencies. The NUG says it has not been contacted about these plans.
Thailand has in the past been accused of neutralising Asean’s efforts by holding its own ministerial meetings with the Myanmar junta. Critics had attributed this to the strong military ties between the two countries.
The new Thai government is expected to tread carefully on this, if only because there appears to be a dearth of fresh ideas on how to move ahead, said Dr Surachanee Sriyai, a visiting fellow at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute.
She told ST: “There won’t be a drastic upside-down development in terms of Thailand’s approach to Myanmar with the Pheu Thai Party administration.
“The status quo will remain for the most part, but Thailand now understands that deviating from Asean principles is damaging to its international reputation. So, no secret ministerial meetings – yet.”
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/myanmar-s-neighbours-grapple-with-new-options-as-balance-of-power-shifts-in-the-country
| 2024-01-30T11:44:55Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE - Shares in Singapore ended higher on Jan 30, mirroring overnight gains over in the United States market.
The benchmark Straits Times Index (STI) was up 0.3 per cent, or 9.73 points, to 3,150.04. Across the broader market, losers outnumbered gainers 333 to 251, after 1.64 billion securities worth $1.14 billion changed hands.
Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust was one of the top gainers on the STI, climbing 3.6 per cent, or five cents, to $1.44.
The trust’s distribution per unit fell 9.1 per cent to $0.022 for its third quarter ended Dec 31, 2023, its manager said on Jan 29. Gross revenue was up 0.8 per cent to $241.6 million for the quarter, from $239.8 million previously.
Meanwhile, Mapletree Logistics Trust was one of the top traded counters by volume on Jan 30, after 20.4 million units worth $31.8 million changed hands. The counter ended 2 per cent, or three cents, higher at $1.56.
The trust entered into a purchase agreement with an unrelated third party to divest its 73 Tuas South Avenue 1 property for $16.8 million, its manager said on Jan 29.
The trio of local banks finished the day lower. DBS Bank lost 0.2 per cent, or seven cents, to $31.82, OCBC Bank fell 0.5 per cent, or six cents, to $12.82, while UOB slipped 0.2 per cent, or five cents, to $28.26.
Elsewhere in the region, key indexes were mixed. The Hang Seng Index fell 2.3 per cent, the Kospi Composite Index lost 0.1 per cent, and the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI ended 0.2 per cent lower.
Meanwhile, the Nikkei 225 gained 0.1 per cent.
Mr Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management, noted that the US Treasury financing estimate and refunding details have taken centre stage as the most crucial event by some investors, in a week characterised by an array of impactful macroeconomic data, policy decisions, key earnings reports and geopolitical developments.
The US Treasury cut first-quarter borrowing estimates to US$760 billion (S$1 trillion), which led to a positive response in bond and stock markets, he noted.
“Overall, the Treasury’s downward revision of Q1 borrowing needs is anticipated to impact global financial markets positively,” Mr Innes said. THE BUSINESS TIMES
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/singapore-stocks-track-wall-street-gains-sti-up-03
| 2024-01-30T11:45:05Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – When Coldplay singer Chris Martin performed two of the British band’s songs in Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) at their ongoing National Stadium concerts, the results were not perfect.
But Ms Lily Goh, the Singaporean deaf artiste who made a video of Something Just Like This (2017) in SgSL for the 46-year-old frontman to follow, says she “closed one eye” and still sees it as a win for the deaf community.
“It is not very accurate, but only deaf signers can tell. It is like having a singer who lip-syncs while having someone singing for the singer behind the curtain – it looks fake,” she tells The Straits Times.
“My main concern is cultural appropriation. Deaf culture is being appropriated if a hearing person has no connection or links to the deaf community.”
The 44-year-old adds: “But this is more than just Chris following my video or appropriating sign language while performing on stage. It is about giving us an immersive and inclusive experience. I am grateful to Coldplay for it.”
In what is believed to be the first for a major pop concert in Singapore, Coldplay’s six nights of concerts at the National Stadium – which kicked off on Jan 23 and run until Jan 31 – boasted a special zone for fans from the deaf community and sign language interpreters.
These audience members, up to nine on Jan 29, were also given Subpacs, an interactive vest that allows the deaf and hard of hearing to feel the music through vibrations. The screens on stage would also flash lyrics.
To make their shows as inclusive as possible, Coldplay’s global tour accommodates not just fans who are deaf and hard of hearing, but also provides sensory bags and a mobile sensory refuge station for those with sensory sensitivities.
The quartet also offer pre-show touch tours for fans who are blind or have low vision.
“It is really amazing,” says Ms Goh. “I often see such videos of other concerts from the United States and United Kingdom and, sometimes, I ask myself, ‘When will it be Singapore’s turn?’”
Martin has been known to perform songs in the local sign language during Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres World Tour, which started in March 2022 and is expected to run until November 2024. Most countries have their own versions of sign language.
Besides Something Just Like This, Martin also performed Hymn For The Weekend (2015) in SgSL, guided by a video made by Singaporean deaf artiste Shariffah Faaiqah.
In the special zone, three freelance Singapore sign language interpreters were at the shows – Mr Daniel Yong, 24; Mr Shawn Fang, 29; and Mr Azzam Akbar, 29.
The three-man team was hired by local concert organiser Live Nation and engaged Ms Goh and Ms Shariffah as consultants.
Two of them would be there at each two-hour gig, one to interpret the lyrics and the other to interpret the instruments, mood and energy of the songs.
Videos of them doing sign language at the concerts went viral on social media over the weekend, prompting many to praise their passionate performances.
While they have provided sign language interpretation services for theatre performances – Mr Yong has also participated in previous National Day Parades – nothing beats the scale of the Coldplay concerts.
A few days before the first show, the trio spent one sleepless night – from 9pm to 11am – learning and interpreting Coldplay’s set list. While they do not consider themselves die-hard fans, they are familiar with the more popular hits.
Mr Yong had to put in more effort on songs from their latest album Music Of The Spheres (2021) because he had not listened to most of them prior to getting the interpreting gig.
“It is more than just literal translations of the lyrics. What we want to do is paint a holistic picture of what the soul of a concert is,” says Mr Fang, who first started signing eight years ago and has been interpreting for six.
“What we’re trying to do is give deaf people full access to the experience of the concert,” adds Mr Yong, who has been signing for eight years and started interpreting five years ago.
And members of the community who attended are grateful for such touches. One of them is Ms Roseanne Loo, who says adding interpreters made her feel included.
“I’m not very fond of going to concerts, but when I heard there were interpreters provided, I didn’t hesitate to attend. I love how the interpreters put their emotions into their song signing. It deepened my connection to the music,” adds the 35-year-old assistant manager.
Mr Amirul Afiq Rozlan, a 23-year-old student, never expected to be able to experience a live concert that provides interpreters and Subpacs on home ground.
“The vibrations are synced with the music beats and the amazing interpreters performed very well. It enhanced my mood.”
Coldplay fan Lim Jia Yi was moved to tears. The 33-year-old facility executive has profound hearing loss in both ears and wears hearing aids.
The noise from the crowds at concerts usually drowns out the performers, so having interpreters and Subpacs helped her enjoy her favourite Coldplay songs, such as Yellow (2000) and The Scientist (2002).
“The experience was so mind-blowing and magical,” she gushes.
Ms Goh hopes that there will be more inclusive concerts in Singapore in the future and that the Coldplay shows are not just a one-off. “In the US and Europe, deaf artistes and hearing interpreters work together to make music accessible and inclusive for the deaf and hard of hearing.”
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/sign-language-and-interactive-vests-s-pore-deaf-community-members-praise-inclusive-coldplay-concerts
| 2024-01-30T11:45:16Z
|
blocked_url
|
Taiwanese TV host Jacky Wu has shed light on a misunderstanding with a Singaporean female artiste who felt bullied after appearing on his popular variety show, Jacky Go Go Go, many years ago.
Wu, 61, recently appeared as a guest on the Taiwanese talk show The Night Night Show With Hello, hosted by Taiwanese comedian Hello.
The episode was uploaded online on Jan 29, with the clip attracting more than 770,000 views in just one day.
Wu said that he had cried after watching in 2023 an interview with the Singaporean artiste.
Pointing out that the other party was a Singaporean star who became famous after debuting in Taiwan, he said: “She felt that she had been bullied by a male host and, unfortunately, that male host was me.”
Wu believed it was due to a language barrier between them then, but they rarely worked together after the misunderstanding. The name of the Singaporean artiste was muted in the clip.
However, netizens speculated that she was singer Stefanie Sun.
Sun had previously written in Singapore’s late founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew’s 2011 book, My Lifelong Challenge: Singapore’s Bilingual Journey, about what had prompted her to start learning Chinese again.
She had gone on Jacky Go Go Go and could not quite understand one of his questions in Mandarin. She was then more fluent in English.
Wu then said: “Why are young artistes these days so ignorant?”
Sun described Wu’s statement as a slap to her face, as his jab made her realise she had to brush up on her mother tongue.
Wu wrote on Facebook later that he said those words only for entertainment value and it was not his intention to critique Sun’s language proficiency.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/tv-host-jacky-wu-says-a-singapore-star-felt-offended-on-his-show
| 2024-01-30T11:45:26Z
|
blocked_url
|
You are reading the Evening Update newsletter. Get up to speed with the important stories from the day. Subscribe to our newsletter.
Singapore draws $12.7b in fixed assets investments in 2023; set to create over 20,000 jobs
In 2023, the chemicals sector took the lead in fixed asset investment commitments at about 35 per cent.
Red Sea shipping crisis could see more costly food, higher inflation in Singapore
NTUC FairPrice says it is working closely with its suppliers to hold prices stable for as long as possible.
Global anti-graft watchdog ranks S'pore as 5th least corrupt country in world
Singapore scored 83 out of a possible 100 on the group’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index.
Online Criminal Harms Act to kick in from Feb 1, with special provisions for scams
The Act, which was passed in Parliament on July 5, 2023, seeks to tackle the evolving criminal harms online.
HSA removed over 12,000 illegal health product listings, seized more than 1.12 million items in 2023
The bulk of the items were sexual enhancement and male vitality supplements or addictive medicines.
Last man in wife-sharing case gets 13 years’ jail, 12 strokes of the cane for raping woman
Toyota tops 2023 new car sales in Singapore by a whisker, EVs garner 18% of market
Mould cases on the rise during rainy season
‘I thought I was going to lose her,’ says father of girl with rare condition
Admitted for a high fever, Huang Si Qing ended up spending two months in the intensive care unit.
‘Introvert happy hour’: Silent book clubs a novel respite for shy bookworms
The Silent Book Club is a global community of bookworms who gather to read in silent camaraderie.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/evening-update-today-s-headlines-from-the-straits-times-on-jan-30-2024
| 2024-01-30T11:45:36Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – President Tharman Shanmugaratnam conferred Singapore’s top military award on former Indonesian Armed Forces chief Yudo Margono at the Istana on Jan 30.
Admiral Yudo, who was the commander in chief of the Indonesian National Defence Forces (TNI) from 2022 to 2023, was given the Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang (Tentera), or Distinguished Service Order (Military) award, said the Ministry of Defence (Mindef).
The prize was for his “his significant contributions in strengthening the close and longstanding defence relations between the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the TNI”, Mindef added.
The ceremony was attended by Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen, Chief of Defence Force Vice-Admiral (VADM) Aaron Beng, as well as other senior government officials and military officers from Singapore and Indonesia.
Mindef noted that under Admiral Yudo’s leadership, the defence ties between both armed forces grew from strength to strength. Both militaries participated in bilateral exercises such as Exercise Safkar Indopura which promoted friendships between the two.
The ministry added that Admiral Yudo strengthened bilateral coordinated patrols between both countries’ navies to improve maritime security in the region.
He also helped enhance cooperation between both armed forces within multilateral frameworks, which contributed to regional peace and stability.
Both defence establishments worked together on regional platforms such as the Asean Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting, the Information Fusion Centre and the Counter-Terrorism Information Facility.
Admiral Yudo, who is in Singapore from Jan 29 to 31, called on Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong following the ceremony.
He also called on Dr Ng and VADM Beng, and inspected a Guard of Honour at Mindef.
“During the calls, they reaffirmed the close and longstanding bilateral defence ties and expressed commitment to deepen the bilateral defence relationship,” Mindef said.
In 2022, Admiral Yudo was also conferred the prestigious military award Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera), or Meritorious Service Medal (Military), by former president Halimah Yacob.
The award was given for his outstanding contributions in forging ties and friendship between the Indonesian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy.
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/ex-indonesian-armed-forces-chief-given-singapore-s-top-military-award
| 2024-01-30T11:45:47Z
|
blocked_url
|
Synopsis: In this new podcast, The Straits Times offers expert insights if you are in the market for a new vehicle or are tracking transportation trends.
Almost 60 per cent of those who sell their cars, are looking for another one. This means that the business of used cars will continue.
ST’s senior transport correspondent Lee Nian Tjoe speaks with Mr Kuanyu Tan, the country manager of Carro, a used car dealership that buys and claims to sell 6,000 cars a year, to understand the business and what it means to the car buyer.
Highlights (click/tap above):
2:20 Where do used cars go? How do used car dealers get inventory financing?
6:10 Are used cars really more affordable than new cars? Price trends in relation to COE prices
17:36 Top two tips for car owners to get the best deal when selling their vehicles
20:48 How long is too long for a car dealer to hold on to their stock?
26:30 Carro’s scheme to “test-own” electric vehicles in Singapore, to help educate consumers about EVs
29:40 Why used car dealers are not making offers for electric vehicles
32:26 The impact of the Lemon Law on used cars
Produced by: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg), Ernest Luis and Teo Tong Kai
Edited by: Teo Tong Kai
Follow COE Watch Podcast here:
Channel: https://str.sg/iTtE
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/iqW2
Spotify: https://str.sg/iqgB
SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/
Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg
Read Lee Nian Tjoe’s articles: https://str.sg/wt8G
Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ
Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC
---
Discover more ST podcast channels:
In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt
Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7
Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN
Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf
Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m
ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE
#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad
Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX
Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
---
Special edition series:
True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T
The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2
Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn
Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB
Singapore’s War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa
---
Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/how-used-car-dealers-make-money-tips-for-selling-your-car
| 2024-01-30T11:45:57Z
|
blocked_url
|
SINGAPORE – A resident of a Hougang estate was horrified when she found her car’s engine bay covered in rat droppings, and the vehicle unable to start.
The 41-year-old billing analyst, who wanted to be known only as Ms Quek, also discovered later that afternoon on Jan 6 that some of the wiring in the car’s engine had been chewed through. As a result, she had to enlist a towing service to take her car to a workshop to be repaired.
In an interview with The Straits Times on Jan 29, Ms Quek, who moved into the estate at Hougang Avenue 8 in 2021, said other residents who have lived there longer told her they have had similar negative experiences, and that the estate has been plagued with a rat infestation for about five years.
“I already noticed the rat issue during my first few months living here, but I brushed it off because it’s a very old estate, around 35 years old, so I thought it was quite common to see pests around,” she said.
However, Ms Quek said she has grown more concerned after observing more rats scurrying around the estate in the last three years.
“When you come back in the night, no matter where you are, you will see rats running around. They will run into the drains, across the carpark and hide under cars,” she said.
She also said the Ang Mo Kio Town Council (AMKTC), after pleas for help from residents, has put in effort to tackle the issue, such as placing traps and rat poison around the estate, but added that the recent damage to her car highlighted that more needed to be done.
In response to queries, an AMKTC spokesman said that is aware of a rodent infestation problem in the carpark of Block 628 Hougang Avenue 8.
He said the town council activated its pest control team to conduct an inspection of the carpark for rat burrows, and added: “Our pest control officer has informed us that there are no active burrows in the carpark and rodent treatment will be carried out in the surrounding area.”
The town council is also following up with its insurance company and Ms Quek on the rat-induced damage to her car for an insurance claim submission, added the spokesman.
The car towing services on Jan 6 cost Ms Quek $70, while mending the car engine’s wires cost $50.
When contacted, Mr Eddie Ng, the director of Choon’s Motor Works – the workshop Ms Quek enlisted – said that while the damage to her car was “not too bad” and required only half a day to fix, future repairs could cost $2,000 to $3,000 if the rats were to attack the same spots again.
In the case that happens, said Mr Ng, the engine wires of Ms Quek’s car would need to be completely replaced, and this could take up to two weeks.
Pest control experts ST spoke to said rats causing damage to vehicles is not uncommon.
Killem Pest’s managing director Nicole Zycinski-Singh said rats are attracted to warm spaces and may see a vehicle’s switched-off engine bay as a convenient place for them to nest and trim their teeth.
Bingo Pest operations director Vinz Lim agreed, explaining that rats actively seek materials such as cables and wires to maintain their dental health.
This is because rats’ teeth grow continuously and require constant gnawing to keep them at a manageable length for feeding, he added.
Mr Lim said: “In vehicles, we’ve seen rodents chew through seat belts and damage the wiring of the in-vehicle unit completely. With their powerful teeth and ability to bite through these materials, they can even cause a short circuit and electrical hazard that may be costly to repair.”
He added that rats also pose health threats to humans through cross-contamination and can directly contribute to the spread of diseases – including salmonellosis and rat-bite fever – by contaminating food and water supplies with their faeces, urine or hair.
Ms Zycinski-Singh and Mr Lim said rat infestations can be eradicated only if the root cause is addressed.
Ms Zycinski-Singh said: “Residents can take preventive measures, like sealing gaps, proper waste disposal, and keeping areas clean.
“(But) while individual efforts can help, an estate-wide rat issue may require coordinated action to address root causes and implement effective pest control measures.”
- Additional reporting by Michelle Chin
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/rats-chew-through-wiring-of-hougang-resident-s-car-leaving-it-unable-to-start
| 2024-01-30T11:46:07Z
|
blocked_url
|
YAMOUSSOUKRO - Holders Senegal were determined to depart the Africa Cup of Nations with dignity intact despite losing to hosts Ivory Coast in a match overshadowed by controversial refereeing decisions, coach Aliou Cisse said after their elimination on Monday.
Senegal let their early lead slip four minutes from time in the last 16 clash when they gave away a penalty, allowing the Ivorians to equalise for 1-1 and force the game to extra time and penalties, where the hosts won 5-4.
"It was a bizarre match," said Cisse of an encounter where the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) missed a studs-up tackle from Senegal's Sadio Mane that should have resulted in him being sent off before halftime.
However, the referee from Gabon then did not award the Senegalese a second-half penalty when Ismailia Sarr was tripped. It would have offered them a golden chance to double their lead and make it harder for the hosts to come back into the contest.
Ivory Coast then won a penalty late in the game after a lengthy consultation with VAR.
"There were a lot of strange incidents in the game but there is no need to go into that," said Cisse, who has been Senegal coach since 2015 and took them to a first-ever Cup of Nations title two years ago and qualified them for two World Cups.
"My only regret is that after the goal, perhaps we lost the main thread of the match a little. We jumped the lines too often even though we started this match well by controlling possession.
"I'm disappointed with the result obviously, disappointed especially for my players and disappointed for our people who expected a lot from us. But I'm also proud of my boys. When you lose, you have to maintain your dignity."
Senegal were the only side to win all of their group games and looked set for another victory when they went ahead in the fourth minute through Habib Diallo.
"We led until minutes from time. I think we got a penalty but the referee didn't go to see the VAR. They had a collision in the penalty area and then he went to see the screen. Today the decisions were against us, but so be it," Cisse added.
"When you look at our first matches, and when you also see the performance we gave here, truly, I think we deserved to go to the quarter-final. But that’s how football is." REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/holders-senegal-exit-cup-of-nations-with-heads-held-high
| 2024-01-30T11:46:18Z
|
blocked_url
|
PARIS - France's interior minister on Tuesday offered police officers bonuses of up to 1,900 euros ($2,050) to work during the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to a letter sent to police and published on X.
The government has been meeting public service unions to try to guarantee cover for the Olympics, which run from July 26 to Aug. 11, the middle of France's holiday season.
"The necessary resources will be made available to ensure that you are fairly remunerated for your commitment and to fund social support measures," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin wrote.
Police unions have said the government is not taking sufficient account of the sacrifices that thousands of officers will make this summer, including giving up on vacation plans and finding extra childcare.
Some officers, already strained after months of heightened security alerts and other tensions connected to the war in Gaza, have recently staged protests.
Police who agree to take less annual leave during the Games will receive a bonus of 1,000 euros, which can rise to 1,600 euros for those stationed around the Olympic venues.
Officers working in and around Paris, as well as those at border checkpoints and Paris airports, will receive an additional 300 euros.
Darmanin said he wanted "100% mobilisation" during the Olympics, but that he had decided to allow each officer at least 10 days of leave between June and September. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/france-offers-police-olympics-bonus-of-up-to-1900-euros
| 2024-01-30T11:46:28Z
|
blocked_url
|
Synopsis: The Straits Times looks at the talking points in sport every second Wednesday of the month. This is a special episode featuring a former Liverpool legend John Arne Riise.
In this episode of Sports Talk, ST’s Deepanraj Ganesan speaks to former Liverpool and Norway defender John Arne Riise who says that his ex-teammate Xabi Alonso should be the man to step into Jurgen Klopp’s big shoes when the German manager leaves his role at the end of the season.
Highlights (click/tap above):
1:50 How Riise reacted to Klopp’s bombshell announcement
3:22 Why Riise picks Alonso to replace Klopp?
4:30 Could Riise tell early on as teammates that Alonso was going to be a manager?
6:16 Can Liverpool win the English Premier League this season?
8:30 A possibility of Reds legend Steven Gerard working with Alonso at Liverpool
Read: https://str.sg/FwpH
Produced by: Deepanraj Ganesan (gdeepan@sph.com.sg) & Amirul Karim
Edited by: Amirul Karim
Follow ST Sports Talk every month:
Channel: https://str.sg/JWRE
Apple Podcasts: https://str.sg/JWRa
Spotify: https://str.sg/JW6N
SPH Awedio app: https://www.awedio.sg/
Website: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
Feedback to: podcast@sph.com.sg
Follow Deepanraj Ganesan on X: https://str.sg/wtra
Read his articles: https://str.sg/ip4G
---
Discover more ST podcast channels:
COE Watch: https://str.sg/iTtE
In Your Opinion: https://str.sg/w7Qt
Asian Insider: https://str.sg/JWa7
Health Check: https://str.sg/JWaN
Green Pulse: https://str.sg/JWaf
Your Money & Career: https://str.sg/wB2m
ST Sports Talk: https://str.sg/JWRE
#PopVultures: https://str.sg/JWad
Music Lab: https://str.sg/w9TX
Discover ST Podcasts: http://str.sg/stpodcasts
---
Special edition series:
True Crimes Of Asia (6 eps): https://str.sg/i44T
The Unsolved Mysteries of South-east Asia (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuZ2
Invisible Asia (9 eps): https://str.sg/wuZn
Stop Scams (10 eps): https://str.sg/wuZB
Singapore’s War On Covid (5 eps): https://str.sg/wuJa
---
Follow our shows then, if you like short, practical podcasts!
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/xabi-alonso-my-pick-to-succeed-klopp-former-liverpool-great-riise
| 2024-01-30T11:46:38Z
|
blocked_url
|
NICOSIA - An envoy for U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres started contacts on divided Cyprus on Tuesday, seeking to break years of stalemate in peace talks.
U.N. envoy Maria Angela Holguin, a former Colombian foreign minister, was on her first visit after being appointed envoy on Jan. 5 with a mandate to explore the resumption of negotiations.
"I come from a country that lived through 50 years of conflict ... I think I can collaborate and do all my best for a good result for Cyprus," she told reporters, referring to civil war in Colombia which struck peace in 2016 with the main rebels.
Cyprus was split in a Turkish invasion in 1974 triggered by a brief Greek-inspired coup and remains a source of friction between fellow NATO military alliance members Greece and Turkey.
Countless mediation attempts have failed. The last round of U.N.-sponsored negotiations collapsed in disarray in 2017 over the role of Turkey in a post-settlement Cyprus.
Holguin, who was Colombian foreign minister from 2010 to 2018, met with President Nikos Christodoulides, the Greek Cypriot leader, and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar.
She was also due to meet civil society groups.
"The less I say the more I can work," Holguin said.
Tatar, who has headed a breakaway state in north Cyprus since 2020, wants a two-state settlement.
That is rejected by Greek Cypriots, who cite previously-agreed accords and U.N. resolutions that the island reunite under a federal umbrella with a strong central government.
At present Cyprus's internationally-recognised government is comprised solely of Greek Cypriots, a legacy of a constitutional breakdown in 1963 when a power-sharing administration with Turkish Cypriots crumbled amid violence. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/un-envoy-in-divided-cyprus-explores-prospect-of-new-talks
| 2024-01-30T11:46:49Z
|
blocked_url
|
Since her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 2018, Selma Blair has become an outspoken activist about the autoimmune disease.
The actress shared an update of how she's getting on now she's been in remission since 2021, revealing that despite her MS no longer progressing, she is still in a lot of pain and dealing with a whole host of other health issues.
The 51-year-old took to Instagram to share a video of herself in her bed, delivering the candid health update from bed.
"I hurt all the time", Selma admitted. "I say that only for you people that hurt also, like I get it."
She carried on that this is partly due to ageing, because when you get older it hurts and "you have to stretch" - except the Legally Blonde actress struggles to stretch due to her Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
"The Ehlers-Danlos - which is something so many more people have now than I realized…" she explained. "Like your muscles just aren't as stable, so the Ehlers-Danlos will make me really really really stiff because I'll pull my muscles too easily and then they're like slack and sit there so I get some injuries."
This might sound incredibly painful and heartbreaking, but according to Selma "this is nothing that's like, horrible, scary stuff or anything".
She added: "It's just one of those extra things that turns into a chronic thing that you have to watch, because people think stretching is so good for you and I'm technically not allowed to stretch because I'm always stretching."
Selma went on to update fans on her MS, stating it's "fine" and she's "still in remission", but she's due for another MRI and blood work.
"But I seem to be doing fine and this helps so much", she said, gesturing towards a piece of medical equipment.
While many people may not know much about multiple sclerosis, one of the few prominent details about it is that often people who have it struggle to walk. Selma revealed her own journey towards walking more.
"If I'm by myself, I do move and walk better", she confirmed. "And in open space. But still I notice when I go out it's still very pronounced when I go into different rooms, hallways or meeting new people or even focusing on talking about it."
But she revealed she doesn't mind talking about how strange this can be now since speaking to other people with MS and neurological issues.
One particularly heartbreaking admission from the actress was that she gets sad when people ask her what she wants to do with her life because she's so tired.
"I just want to sleep and then get on my horse and be better. I'm a beginner every day, so it's like Groundhog Day, and I'm doing really well - there's no complaining" she explained. "But I don't know if I'll ever have the coordination, or balance, or stamina that I want to."
Despite this, Selma confirmed she's "still lucky, still grateful", but "it's still a bummer".
Selma's confessions about the current state of her health struck a particular chord with people who also have MS and Ehlers-Danlos, as well as other people with disabilities.
"I hope this becomes a series", one person wrote. "Thank you for using your platform to normalize invisible disabilities & illness. So much love to you."
Another added: "Thank you for sharing!! I have MS too and it really irritates me when people question whether my symptoms are real or not." Meanwhile a third person wrote "I have Ehlers-Danlos and chronic cancer…THANK YOU for being an voice, an advocate, a warrior."
Selma has been in remission for her MS since 2021 when she had a bone marrow transplant "to stop the progression of the MS, that had been, for really many, many years, burning."
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/512328/selma-blair-51-shares-painful-health-update-amid-multiple-sclerosis-remission/
| 2024-01-30T11:55:25Z
|
blocked_url
|
Julia Roberts led a host of glamorous stars at the Jacquemus show in the hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence in the South of France on Monday.
Serving up a timeless aesthetic in monochromatic black, the Pretty Woman actress, 56, looked sublime in a tailored coat dress characterized by soft, puffed sleeves and a waist-cinching silhouette; a fitting nod to the sharp lines of Jacquemus' Spring 2024 collection titled "Les Sculptures".
The Notting Hill star complemented her statement outerwear with sheer tights, bow-adorned slingback heels, a gold-strap bag and a winter berry-hued manicure.
Julia's glossy chocolate tresses were styled in vampy waves as she appeared to debut a fresh set of face-framing bangs, highlighting her delicate features.
Joining a fleet of stars on the front row, Julia was in attendance alongside Kylie Jenner and her daughter Stormi Webster, Jack Harlow, Kristin Davis and more.
Equally notable stars graced the runway, including Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski and Kit Butler.
The Jacquemus show is renowned for having an unrivalled guestlist, with David and Victoria Beckham, The Crown's Claire Foy and Bridgerton's Simone Ashely having attended in previous years.
Julia's effortless ensemble in Paris was a modern take on one of her most recognisable style concoctions of the late 80s and 90s - adding a blazer to just about anything.
In 1989, the Hollywood cool-girl made a case for biker shorts when she teamed them with an oversized blazer, putting her own spin on androgynous dressing.
Carrying on her winning sartorial streak in 2024, she stepped out in New York to promote her new movie Leave The World Behind earlier this month, teaming a black blazer with tailored shorts and an open blouse. Giving her look a relaxed feel, she opened her top buttons and slung a bow tie left undone around her neck.
Julia's recent public appearances have not only seen her make a return to the fashion circuit, but also open up about her personal life in a string of rare interviews. During a recent appearance on the Today show, the actress shared a touching insight into her marriage to Danny Moder.
Speaking with Hoda Kotb, alongside her co-star Mahershala Ali, the star didn't hold back in expressing her admiration and gratitude towards her husband of 22 years.
“Danny really is the bedrock of our family,” Julia shared. “He's our anchor and, in the most beautiful way, the captain of our ship. I feel incredibly grateful for his presence in our lives.”
|
https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/celebrity-style/512331/julia-roberts-looks-sublime-tailored-coat-paris/
| 2024-01-30T11:55:31Z
|
blocked_url
|
A video showing the Menkaure pyramid at Giza in Egypt undergoing renovations has sparked criticism online, with people comparing it to straightening the Leaning Tower of Piza.
The project, aimed at restoring the pyramid's outer casing to the state it was originally built in, began work earlier this week. The Menkaure pyramid is located next to the Sphinx and the larger Khafre and Cheops pyramids. There are claims that the pyramid was intentionally dismantled by the order of Malek Abd al-Aziz Othman ben Yusuf, son of Saladin, in 1196. However according to the Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Mostafa Waziri, at some point in its history the pyramid was subject to an earthquake, causing the large hole seen on one side.
The outer covering of the pyramid was originally 16 granite blocks, though now only seven remain. The team likened the restoration project to a puzzle, as they had to match the fallen granite blocks to their original position.
However, a video of the project shared on Facebook drew criticism from experts as well as laypeople.
"Impossible!" Egyptologist Monica Hanna said, per AFP. "The only thing missing was to add tiling to the pyramid of Menkaure! When are we going to stop the absurdity in the management of Egyptian heritage?"
"All international principles on renovations prohibit such interventions," she added.
Others suggested the project should include adding wallpaper or asked: "When will the project to straighten the Tower of Pisa be planned?" (to which the answer is while the Leaning Tower of Pisa has not been intentionally straightened, it has been stabilized so that it doesn't become the Pile of Rubble of Pisa).
The pyramid was built for Pharaoh Menkaure, ruler between 2490 and 2472 BC. A mortuary temple next to the pyramid was completed after his death by his successor, Shepseskaf. The project to restore the outer casing will take around three years, which will include a lot of laser scanning and documentation before any granite blocks are moved.
|
https://www.iflscience.com/controversy-as-egypt-begins-ancient-pyramid-renovation-72683
| 2024-01-30T13:04:05Z
|
blocked_url
|
In a massive step forward for Elon Musk’s controversial Neuralink project, the tech billionaire announced yesterday that the startup has implanted a brain chip into a human subject for the first time. Revealing the news in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk gave little detail but did say that the recipient is “recovering well”.
"Initial results show promising neuron spike detection," Musk wrote on the social media platform that he purchased in 2022. In this context, spikes are peaks of electrical activity generated by neurons, although it’s unclear at this stage exactly how successful the procedure has been or what outcome the patient might be able to expect.
Neuralink is developing a brain-computer interface implant with the goal of allowing humans to control devices using only their minds. Ostensibly, the company’s intention is to help people suffering from paralysis to operate equipment that would allow them to communicate and move around more easily.
However, the prospect of such a technology also opens up possibilities for more outlandish uses, such as brain-to-brain communication, thought-hacking, and the ability to live forever by downloading old brains into young bodies. These whimsical applications are still a long way off, although the start of Neuralink’s first human trial is sure to set imaginations running wild.
Approval for the so-called PRIME Study was granted last year by the US Food and Drug Administration. According to Neuralink, the trial involves the use of a robot to surgically connect the implant’s ultra-fine threads to participants’ motor cortices.
The purpose of the study is to evaluate the safety of the procedure, and the announcement comes shortly after the company was fined for violating the rules that govern the transport of hazardous materials. During inspections of Neuralink’s facilities early last year, officials from the Department of Transportation found that certain dangerous chemicals had been improperly packaged.
Neuralink has also been continually dogged by accusations of animal cruelty during its earlier experiments on macaques. According to complaints raised by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), several monkeys were severely harmed by the device, with some going on to suffer from infections, brain swelling, paralysis, seizures, and depression.
The accusations, which were sent to the Securities and Exchange Commission, state that numerous monkeys were euthanized as a direct result of the damage caused by the brain chip. In response, Musk has publicly stated that no animals have ever died due to a Neuralink implant.
|
https://www.iflscience.com/elon-musks-neuralink-implants-first-brain-chip-into-human-subject-72689
| 2024-01-30T13:04:11Z
|
blocked_url
|
BEIJING - The U.S. and China launched a joint counter-narcotics working group on Tuesday in the first overt sign of cooperation in tackling the spread of fentanyl since late 2019, before bilateral relations between the superpowers soured.
It follows a key summit in San Francisco in November where U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to work to curb fentanyl production and export, in a major breakthrough.
Fentanyl is a highly addictive synthetic opioid 50 times more potent than heroin. The U.S. has said China is the primary source of the precursor chemicals synthesised into fentanyl by drug cartels in Mexico. China denies this.
"We had in depth communication and were pragmatic. We reached common understanding on the work plan," China's Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong said at a joint address with the U.S. delegation before the group's inauguration in Beijing.
He added that he hoped the two sides could accommodate each other's concerns and "enhance and expand cooperation to provide more positive energy for stable, sound and sustainable China-U.S. relations."
Ties between the two countries have been tense in recent years over a range of issues including the origins of COVID-19, trade tariffs, Taiwan and human rights, hampering Washington's hopes of getting China to re-join its efforts to stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States.
In November 2019, in an unusual disclosure of Sino-U.S. cooperation in cracking down on fentanyl crimes, Chinese and U.S. law enforcement jointly announced that they had worked together to break up a fentanyl smuggling ring.
But Sino-U.S. cooperation in narcotics fizzled out when COVID-19 arrived, and multiple geopolitical headwinds pushed bilateral ties to their lowest in decades.
At their joint address to the media in Beijing, U.S. Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Homeland Security Advisor Jen Daskal said Biden had sent a "significant delegation" to underscore the importance of the fentanyl issue to the American people.
When Biden met Xi last year in the U.S., he told the story of the child of a friend in Delaware who died of a fentanyl overdose, Daskal said.
"This was a deeply personal story of President Biden but it is unfortunately not a unique story in the United States," she said. REUTERS
|
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/china-us-to-cooperate-on-fentanyl-beijing-hopes-for-positive-energy
| 2024-01-30T13:17:16Z
|
blocked_url
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.