CALGARY, Alberta, May 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The FIM World Supercross Championship tickets will go on sale today at 10:00 am MST for the opening round of the 2026 season, taking place at McMahon Stadium in Calgary on Saturday August 8, 2026.

The Calgary round marks the championship’s first visit to the city and continues its presence in Canada for a third consecutive year. Riders will compete for the first championship points of the year and overall GP honours in both SX1 and SX2.

McMahon Stadium, a regular host of major sporting events in Calgary, will stage a purpose-built supercross track for the round. With Canada’s established motorsport and dirt bike fanbase, the city provides a strong setting for the season opener.

The 2026 season will also visit Birmingham, Buenos Aires, the Gold Coast and South Africa, with a sixth round still to be announced. Team and rider announcements will be made in the build-up to the season opener over the coming months, with the full field expected to feature the biggest names in the sport.

A range of ticket packages is available, including reserved seating from $40, junior tickets in the family zone from $20, premium reserved seating from $150, and upgraded experiences including Insider Pass and hospitality packages for fans wanting to get closer to the action.

Tom Burwell, CEO, World Supercross Championship, said: “Bringing World Supercross to Calgary is an important moment for the championship as we continue to build our presence in Canada. McMahon Stadium is a strong venue for our season opener, and we are looking forward to introducing the championship to fans in the city for the first time.”

Carson Ackroyd, Vice President, Sales, Tourism Calgary said: “Having Calgary be the first stop for the 2026 World Supercross season, while also hosting the championship here for the very first time, is a huge moment for the city. This is an event made for Calgarians, packed with adrenaline, family fun and energy. We’re excited to see the momentum and excitement continue to build as we ramp up for August at McMahon Stadium.”

Tickets are available at 10:00 am MST at www.worldsupercrosschampionship.com

– Published by The MIL Network

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 May 2026 – At the International Hydrogen Development Symposium 2026 today (May 18), nine pioneering companies from Korea, the Chinese Mainland, France, and Hong Kong – including Hyundai Motor Group – signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on hydrogen ecosystem building, marking a major step toward advancing the city’s green economy.

This multi-party signing was officiated by Deputy Minister for Territorial and Urban Policy at Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of the Republic of Korea, Mr Jeong Eui-kyung; the Acting Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong; the Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services, Mr Poon Kwok-ying; and the Director-General of Investment Promotion of Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), Ms Alpha Lau.

Spearheaded by Hyundai Motor Group, the MOU establishes a collaborative framework to build a comprehensive, self-sustaining hydrogen ecosystem in Hong Kong, targeted to be fully operational by the end of 2030. The collaboration will prioritise the development of waste-to-hydrogen technologies to convert landfill gas into clean energy, along with an immediate focus on piloting a liquefied hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. To enable full value chain integration, it also targets the deployment of customised hydrogen fuel cell commercial vehicles, including tour and airport shuttle buses.

Through facilitating public-private partnerships and inter-governmental collaboration, InvestHK is supporting Hyundai Motor Group and its partners to implement go-to-market strategies aligned with the shared vision for hydrogen ecosystem building.

This partnership will also position Hong Kong as a strategic base for Hyundai Motor Group’s hydrogen business expansion across the Asia-Pacific region.

Miss Wong said, “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in developing tangible, on-the-ground hydrogen applications to accelerate the green transition towards carbon neutrality. By combining Korea’s world-class technological capabilities with Hong Kong’s strategic urban context, Hong Kong could serve as an exceptional international demonstration platform for showcasing green and low-carbon technologies. If these cutting-edge innovations could be applied and scaled up successfully here, it will serve as a positive model and provide highly viable options for reference by modern cities worldwide.”

Ms Lau said, “Today’s multi-party signing is both a landmark moment for Hong Kong’s green economy and a clear signal that the city’s hydrogen ecosystem is gaining real traction. Over the past three years, InvestHK has helped leading hydrogen enterprises establish themselves in Hong Kong, several of which have since listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising over $2.5 billion in total. For businesses with global green ambitions, Hong Kong is where business growth takes shape.”

Executive Vice President and Head of Energy & Hydrogen Policy Sub-Division at Hyundai Motor Group, Mr Seung Kyu-shin, said, “This MOU was signed as Hyundai Motor Group’s commitment to advancing Hong Kong’s proactive hydrogen policies and driving the acceleration of its hydrogen ecosystem utilising the Group’s hydrogen business capability and experience. Starting with Hong Kong, we look forward to expanding our collaboration and business opportunities across the broader Asia-Pacific hydrogen market.”

Partners entering into this MOU include Hyundai Motor Company and Hyundai Engineering & Construction from Hyundai Motor Group, China Inspection Co Ltd, Chun Wo Bus Services Limited, Chun Wo Construction & Engineering Company Limited, Jiangsu Guofu Hydrogen Energy Equipment Co Ltd, JEA ENG, Templewater Limited, the Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited, and Veolia Hong Kong Holding Limited.

This multi-party, long-term collaboration is set to establish a robust, end-to-end hydrogen industry chain – spanning production, storage, transportation, refuelling and utilisation.

New energy is vital to Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050 and the national dual-carbon goals. As set out in the Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address, Hong Kong will establish public hydrogen filling facilities on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon, press ahead with more hydrogen trial projects, and develop the GBA Hydrogen Corridor in collaboration with Guangdong Province. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is actively advancing hydrogen development through technological innovation, talent cultivation, ecosystem building, and regional co-ordination. To date, over 30 hydrogen trial projects have been greenlit, paving the way not only for decarbonisation targets, but also for unlocking new quality productive forces for green economic growth.

Hashtag: #InvestHK

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

JOHOR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 May 2026 – Forest City Golf Resort announced that the Forest City Classic Course recorded its largest year-on-year rise in rankings to date in the 2026 Asia Top 100 Golf Courses, advancing 14 positions to No. 36 in Asia and retaining its status as Malaysia’s top-ranked course. Adding to the momentum, the on-site Forest City Golf Hotel was recently recognised with the 2025 Agoda Gold Circle Award. As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026 and Visit Johor 2026, the resort expects heightened regional interest in golf travel.

Strong Rankings and Asia Golfing Trend Underscore Forest City’s Readiness for Increased Demand

According to Forest City Golf Resort, it hosted more than 100,000 golfers in 2025. Driven by national and state campaigns and expected rising interest in golf, 2026 is expected to see continued growth in visitor arrivals, especially among recreational and leisure-focused golfers.

Visit Malaysia 2026 and Visit Johor 2026 are complementary, government-led tourism campaigns designed to stimulate inbound and domestic travel through coordinated promotion, marquee events, and service enhancements across key gateways and destinations. With ambitious targets — Visit Malaysia 2026 aims to attract 47 million tourists and generate RM147.1 billion in tourism receipts, while Visit Johor 2026 targets 12 million visitors and an estimated RM42 billion in economic impact by year-end — these initiatives are expected to drive increased demand for hospitality, events, and leisure around Forest City SFZ throughout 2026.

Meanwhile, Asia has seen a growing interest in golf participation and travel. Urban driving ranges and family-oriented mini-golf are broadening entry points to the game, and independent data from the R&A, one of the two governing bodies globally determining the rules of golf, revealed in 2024 that Asia leads the global golf population ahead of Europe, Canada, and all other R&A affiliated regions (excluding the US and Mexico, which are affiliated with the USGA). International golf travel into Asia is also growing, with Southeast Asia in particular strengthening its position as one of the most attractive regions for golf tourism due to championship courses, quality hospitality, and diverse cultural experiences — signalling a broad-based upswing supported by participation growth, investment, and tourism.

Against this backdrop, with the Forest City Classic Course ranking No. 36 in Asia and No. 1 in Malaysia for 2026, the resort is well positioned to translate demand into stay-and-play bookings, corporate golf events, and family getaways. Forest City Golf Resort also recently won the 2025 Agoda Gold Circle Award, reinforcing its appeal as an integrated golf-and-hospitality proposition designed to support stronger occupancy, longer lengths of stay, and higher per-guest spend through 2026.

Classic and Legacy Courses Anchor Forest City Golf Resort: Seven Years, One Consistent Verdict

Forest City Golf Resort in Johor, Malaysia, offers two 18-hole championship courses: the Classic Course, designed by veteran course architect Liang Guokun, and the Legacy Course, a signature collaboration between Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II. Both have achieved strong rankings in Asia.

Co-hosted by the Chinese and Korean editions of Golf Travel magazine since 2016, the Asia Top 100 Golf Courses ranking evaluates course design, playability, landscape aesthetics, and technical difficulty. The Classic Course first entered the list in 2018 and has maintained an unbroken presence through 2026.

In 2026, the Classic Course placed No. 36 in Asia — an improvement of 14 places. Within Malaysia, three courses were recognised; Forest City ranked No. 1 nationally, with the others at No. 55 and No. 73.

Forest City views this sustained recognition as evidence of relentless operational refinement and consistent course quality. In a competitive ranking where many venues rotate in and out, seven consecutive appearances reflect consistently high professional standards in design, conditioning, and the playing experience, as well as a deep commitment to achieving higher levels of excellence.

Course Design Philosophies: Return to Nature, Calibrated Challenge

Forest City Golf Resort’s 36 holes present complementary architectural signatures at international championship standard.

The Classic Course, by veteran architect Liang Guokun, exemplifies his “Return to Nature” philosophy through multi-layered landscapes, sculpted bunker lines, and lake vistas integrated strategically across every hole. The lakes form part of the course’s water management system, delivering visual drama and functional sustainability in tandem. Liang’s standing is independently validated: both the Classic Course and his Holiday Island Golf Club feature in the 2026 Asia Top 100.

For golfers, the Classic Course translates design intent into experience: each shot invites thoughtful decision-making, rewarding precision and course management while immersing players in a carefully composed natural setting. The result is a round that challenges skill and strategy while offering a sense of progression through a living landscape.

The Legacy Course, a signature collaboration between Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II, adds a distinct counterpoint. This rare father-and-son design balances calibrated challenge with aesthetic appeal, catering to players who seek a different test from the Classic Course while maintaining championship credentials.

Both the Classic and Legacy courses are GEO Certified, underscoring verified environmental stewardship rather than self-declared claims. In 2025, Forest City Golf Resort hosted several major tournaments and welcomed more than 100,000 golfers, confirming the venue’s role as an active stage for diverse styles of play as well as an exceptional destination for visiting golfers.

Beyond the Courses: Forest City as a Golf Tourism Destination

Forest City Golf Resort operates as an active international competition venue as well as a premier leisure destination. Its regularly held tournaments and growing visitor numbers underscore consistent utilisation throughout the year. These metrics also complement the Asia Top 100 recognition and reflect the resort’s capacity to stage events at scale while maintaining a high-quality guest experience.

Set within Forest City’s wider leisure ecosystem, the resort benefits from approximately 4 km of coastline, curated mangrove boat tours, sea-fishing, and year-round food and beverage options. This natural and amenity-rich setting supports repeat visitation: close enough to Singapore for convenient access and continually evolving to reward the return visit with rich and diverse experiences and itineraries.

Beyond golf, Forest City Golf Resort has secured nearly 20 industry accolades since 2018, contributing to Forest City’s portfolio of more than 40 international awards overall. For organisers, these third-party validations, combined with proven MICE infrastructure and cross-border connectivity, translate into a reliable platform for corporate golf days, incentive travel, and multi-event calendars — breathtaking for the new, heartwarming for the familiar.

Resort Overview

• Location: Forest City, Johor. Approximately 2 km from Singapore at the closest point.
• Access: Approximately 40 minutes’ drive to Singapore’s CBD via the Second Link Crossing (travel time subject to traffic).
• Accommodation: Forest City Golf Hotel (five-star; recipient of 2025 Agoda Gold Circle Award) and garden villas. Golf Villa show units renovated with a “limitless space,” intended for groups and families.
• MICE and corporate: Conference and event facilities available for corporate golf days, incentive travel, and board-level meetings. Catering and breakout spaces available.
• Visitor volumes (2025): More than 100,000 golfers visited; among Malaysia’s most visited golf clubs.
• Booking: Tee times, stay-and-play packages, and corporate event enquiries are available via the official site at https://fcgolfresort.com/.

Looking Ahead: Consistency as a Competitive Advantage

Sustained recognition in the Asia Top 100 reflects consistent investment in course quality, operations, and environmental management (including ongoing GEO certification) — commitments Forest City Golf Resort expects to carry forward through 2026 and beyond. As the Visit Malaysia 2026 and Visit Johor 2026 campaigns take effect, the resort anticipates stronger demand across stay-and-play bookings, corporate events, and family leisure. These conditions, combined with its proximity to Singapore and integrated amenity offering, strengthen Forest City’s value proposition as a golf tourism destination and integrated resort platform for golfers, organisers, and long-term stakeholders alike.

Hashtag: #ForestCity

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

MIL OSI

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MIL OSI

NRL: NZ Warriors v St George-Illawarra Dragons

Kickoff 7.30pm NZT, Saturday, 23 May

Jubilee Stadium, Kogarah

Live blog updates on RNZ

With Tanah Boyd now officially sidelined for the season with a ruptured knee ligament, NZ Warriors must not only settle on a replacement halfback, they must also find another goalkicker.

After a spectacular start to the 2026 NRL campaign, Boyd injured his anterior cruciate ligament early against Brisbane Broncos on Sunday and faces surgery next week, followed by nine months of rehabilitation.

Originally regarded by most as merely keeping the No.7 jersey warm for Luke Metcalf’s return, Boyd’s form was so compelling, it kept the club’s marquee half – who suffered the same injury last year – out of the starting line-up and persuaded him to seek his future elsewhere in 2027.

Veteran utility Te Maire Martin came off the bench and contributed mightily to the Warriors’ 42-12 romp over the defending NRL champions at ‘Magic Round’ and will have first crack as Boyd’s replacement on Saturday against St George-Illawarra Dragons, although Metcalf remains an option beyond that.

Turns out there is also no shortage of volunteers for the kicking chores.

Fullback Taine Tuaupiki immediately stepped into the role against the Broncos, missing his first attempt – a sideline conversion of Dallin Watene-Zelezniak’s opening try – before slotting his next five.

Inexplicably, five-eighth Chanel Harris-Tavita assumed the job, banging over a penalty from in front of the posts, before converting Watene-Zelezniak’s second try from the sideline.

“I actually just had a little niggle,” Tuaupiki explained, pointing just below his knee. “When you’ve got other good goalkickers in the team and you’ve got a niggle, you can just dish it over.

“We’re all happy to kick and the same would happen if [Chanel] got a niggle, I’d take over from him.”

Until that point, Boyd had taken all but two shots at goal for the Warriors this season, connecting on 70 percent. Veteran Roger Tuivasa-Sheck was allowed to convert a try in his 150th game for the club against Canberra Raiders, while front-rower Jackson Ford was also on target in his 100th NRL appearance against Newcastle Knights.

Across his 19 games for the club over the past two seasons, Boyd had kicked with 73 percent accuracy.

Tuaupiki has kicked spasmodically in his limited first-grade appearances, but that sideline effort against the Broncos was his first miss from 12 attempts (92 percent).

His most memorable goalkicking performance came at 2024 Magic Round, when he converted his own late try for a 22-20 victory over defending champions Penrith Panthers.

Harris-Tavita kicked extensively for the Warriors during his early years in first grade, but hadn’t attempted one since 2024. He has made 65/83 (78 percent) across his career.

“I didn’t know at the time,” coach Andrew Webster reflected on the kicking handover on Sunday. “I thought, ‘What’s Chanel doing?’ but I was very happy when he slotted them over.

“Now we’ve got another headache – we’ve got Chanel who wants to kick goals – so that’s good depth again.”

The kicking ability goes way beyond those two. If Metcalf returns to the starting line-up, he brings a 63/92 (68 percent) return from his 36 games for the club, while centre Adam Pompey proved himself more than useful during the 2024 season and has a 51/68 (75 percent) success rate.

No-one is quite sure who will take the tee first this week.

“We probably haven’t had that discussion yet,” Tuaupiki confirmed. “We’ve got captain’s run tomorrow and that’s when we sit down with the goalkicking coach… we’ll see how we go.”

Meanwhile, the players and staff have supported Boyd, as he comes to grips with his predicament. With his current contract expiring this season, he had reportedly negotiated an extension with the Warriors, but it had not been officially announced before his injury.

“He’s upset,” Webster said. “He’s put a lot of hard work into his game and this club. He’s done a terrific job for us, and he’s done his family and himself really proud.

“He’s gutted, because he’s done all that hard work and will now miss the opportunity, but for a guy who’s gone through what he’s done, I haven’t seen a player go through an ACL and then reconnect with the team so quickly.

“He’s been in our meetings and telling Te Maire, if he needs any reps, he’ll help him with stuff – not physically, but mental reps. He’s been unbelievably good, but you can see the disappointment on his face.”

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/nrl-nz-warriors-audition-new-goalkickers-after-tanah-boyds-season-ending-injury/

Steve Corica has won the biggest prize in the A-League five times before and should he do it a sixth time it will be a piece of history that brings his journey in the competition full circle.

The Auckland FC coach has been unwaveringly positive in public as the side navigated the long way to the A-League grand final to be played against Sydney FC on Saturday.

Having won a grand final as recently as 2020, Corica knew the mindset and the skillset it took for a club to be crowned the best in the competition.

Corica did not want to claim the “favourites” tag for the first A-League grand final to be played in New Zealand, maybe because the underdogs tag has served the side well at the business end of the competition, but two days before the biggest game in Auckland FC’s history Corica was steadfast in his belief he had the right group to lift the silverware.

“I know my players and what they can produce,” Corica said.

“We’ve been going two years and we’ve won a premiership, a couple of semi-finals, they’ve always performed under pressure.

“There’s probably that added pressure that we didn’t have last week [in the away semifinal in Adelaide], everyone’s going to have their family and friends there watching, but they really have performed well under pressure when we’ve asked them to.

“It’s just maintaining focus, not getting too carried away in the lead up to the grand final.”

Sydney had also had to win an elimination final and a two-legged semifinal to get to the last game of the season.

It took a penalty shootout against the top team in the league for Sydney to lock in a grand final against a side coached by one of their club legends.

Corica was involved in every A-League title Sydney FC has won.

Over 19 years with the club from foundation player, captain, assistant coach and head coach Corica was also on the wrong side of the ledger in two grand finals.

He claimed two championships as a player in 2005-06 and 2009-10; two as a manager in 2018-19 and 2019-20; and was involved as an assistant coach in the 2016-17 season victory.

“It’s a long time in football to stay at one club for that long,” Corica said.

“I loved it there…I’m really proud of what we achieved there but I’m really proud of what we’ve done here as well in the first two seasons.”

Corica said it was “even more dangerous” to be going up against a club that had Sydney’s pedigree in finals but he was driven to win on home soil and make history with Auckland.

“For me just winning a grand final is very sweet.

“They don’t come along all the time, that’s the message to the players, you don’t know when the next one’s going to come, we’d like it to be next year, but who knows.”

Sydney’s current captain and the club’s most capped player of all time, Rhyan Grant, is a one club man who worked with Corica for more than a decade.

“I know the mentality of a couple of the boys that I worked with there,” Corica said.

“Rhyan Grant has been there a long time, he’s been there, done that. He’s scored in grand finals before. He’s a good leader for Sydney.

“So, obviously, they’ve got some experienced players that have played before in finals. We have a couple, but not many.”

Sydney has moved on since Corica was fired in 2023. Ufuk Talay replaced Corica and then Talay was replaced near the back end of this season by new manager Patrick Kisnorbo.

Auckland have never lost to Sydney across two seasons, but Corica’s record against Kisnorbo, who has coached at Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory before taking over at Sydney in late March, stands at two draws and three losses.

“We’ve played Sydney before, we know what they’re about. Obviously, they’ve changed coaches as well, six games ago, and they’re unbeaten under the coach as well.

“It’s difficult, but we have to be positive. The mindset is always positive and to win the game.

“Sydney like to have the ball as well and control the tempo of things, so I’m happy with that if that happens. But we need to have the ball as well and to create opportunities, score goals, obviously defend well as well.”

Corica brought to Auckland one of his former charges from Sydney, Jake Girdwood-Reich, who was part of the Australia Cup-winning squad.

Corica gave Girdwood-Reich his A-League debut in the 2022-23 season and the defender went on to play 45 times for Sydney FC before heading to Major League Soccer in the United States in 2024.

An arrival in Auckland this season has set up a showdown against the club the 21-year-old was a supporter of as a youngster and went through the academy system of.

“I was there for about eight years, grew up there, started my career there. It was pretty weird versing them during the season, but I’m used to it now.”

Girdwood-Reich said it was a “little bit emotional” preparing to face some players he knows well but said “I can’t talk to them this weekend”.

“It’s a little bit weird, but I want to be an A-League champion, so I’m going to do whatever it takes to do that.”

Some of the same players Girdwood-Reich will be avoiding are the same players Corica has a little bit of extra intel on as they were academy players during his time.

Alongside Corica and Girdwood-Reich are Auckland’s director of football Terry McFlynn and head of player recruitment Doug Kors who have both also been involved with Sydney FC.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/football-auckland-fc-coach-steve-corica-targets-sixth-a-league-title-against-former-side/

Experienced sports and major events leader Jennah Wootten has been put in charge of the country’s largest women’s code, with Netball New Zealand (NNZ) naming her as its new chief executive.

Wootten will take up the role on 12 August, taking over from interim chief executive Jane Patterson, who did not apply for the permanent job.

Wootten has been serving as chief executive of Aktive – Auckland Sport and Recreation Charitable Trust since 2021.

She brings experience across some of New Zealand’s most significant sporting events, including as chief executive of the World Masters Games 2017, which featured 28,000 participants.

She has also served as a director of cricket 2021 for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, and played a leading role in delivering the Rugby World Cup 2011 programme in Auckland.

Wootten, who received the prestigious Sport NZ CK Doig Leadership Award in 2024 for outstanding leadership across New Zealand’s sport and recreation sector, said she felt “extremely privileged” to be taking up the role.

“Netball New Zealand is an organisation with an extraordinary community behind it and the Silver Ferns are one of our most beloved sporting teams,” Wootten said.

“My career has been built on bringing people together around ambitious shared goals. I am coming into this role with enormous respect for the netball community and a real desire to keep building this sport. I look forward to connecting with the community and our partners, and working hard to deliver the future this sport deserves.”

Patterson has led the organisation through a period of change since the beginning of the year and Wootten will face plenty of challenges when she takes over.

Last year the organisation struggled to secure a broadcast deal for the ANZ Premiership, the sport’s domestic showpiece. NNZ is still working through what the future of the competition from 2027 will look like.

The financial health of the ANZ Premiership has declined significantly since the league’s inaugural season in 2017. The biggest financial blow came when Sky TV’s broadcast rights offer was drastically less than it had been in the past.

Netball faces a lot more competition from cashed-up codes like rugby and cricket, who are putting new levels of investment into the female side of their game.

Last September, one of the most damaging periods for the sport was set in motion when Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua was suspended due to concerns raised from players about the high performance environment.

Taurua was eventually reinstated, but calls for “heads to roll” at Netball NZ came from many quarters. Patterson was hired as interim boss following Jennie Wyllie’s decision to step down as CEO in December 2025.

Alastair Carruthers, who was recently appointed the new board chair of NNZ, said a high calibre of candidates applied for the role.

“Jennah is an exceptional appointment and we are thrilled to have her bringing her considerable talent and skills to Netball New Zealand,” said Carruthers.

“She has a track record of delivering at the highest level of New Zealand sport, of building commercial and community partnerships, and of leading teams with clarity. We look forward to her leading the organisation into its next chapter.”

Wootten was also an independent director of Perpetual Guardian Holdings and Perpetual Trust, and deputy chair of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, where Carruthers was also a board director.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/jennah-wootten-named-new-boss-of-netball-nz/

Kiwi boxer David Nyika is relieved to have a more tangible fight on his hands.

The Olympic medalist was forced from the ring and thrust into a life-changing battle in 2025.

His fiancée, Lexi Thornberry, was diagnosed with head and neck cancer at just 24.

It would test Nyika like no fight had before.

“It was pretty grim. It was a pretty grim six months. But this is my greatest achievement to date, saving Lex’s life, and I think it will always be up there as a huge achievement for me. It’s a matter of doing all the small things, whether you want to do them or not. Inspiration and motivation are so fleeting, but discipline is where champions are made.”

Thornberry recently finished six months of radiation therapy.

“She’s on the up now. And that has kind of relieved me of a lot of that pressure because I was the rock. I worked really, really hard to make that journey as palatable as possible for Lex. A lot of character building. I feel like I’ve grown up a bit in the last six months. It’s kind of put everything into perspective. I know I’ve got one life to live and I’m going to live it to the fullest and do everything I can to make it a good life.”

With Thornberry’s health improving, Nyika is ready to return.

“It was not the time-out that I wanted but yeah, good to be back.”

Nyika will headline a Duco card on 8 August in an IBF cruiserweight world title eliminator with New Zealand-born Australian Floyd Masson.

Having grown up together in Waikato, the pair share plenty of mutual respect.

“You see guys like Floyd who have worked their way to where he is today purely through hard work and dedication and resilience. I believe I’m a more talented fighter. I like him, but in a way that you want to punch your older brother. I think it’s a fun fight for both of us.”

Nyika is well aware of the threat the veteran possesses, having won the IBO cruiserweight crown in 2023.

“It’s going to be hard, he is such a tough guy and a smooth operator in terms of going to the deep end. He’s fluent. For me , just being myself will be enough.”

It was a tough 2025 for Nyika, who also suffered his first career loss, a brutal KO at the hands of Jai Opetaia.

Nyika said he still regrets entering a fire-fight with the unbeaten Opetaia.

“We just started fighting. But I was expecting him to fade in the mid-round so obviously didn’t make it that far. But I backed myself. I backed my fitness.”

However, the belt Nyika was fighting for that night is now in his sights again, after Opetaia opted to sign with Dana White’s rebel boxing league Zuffa.

He was stripped of the IBF title as a result.

For the number five ranked Nyika, a victory over the number six ranked Masson would guarantee the top IBF ranking and a second tilt at the title.

“It’s funny how it works out, eh?”

Despite his admiration for Masson, Nyika said he will be able to flick the switch and find the finish.

“We’ll put our differences aside on the night and we’ll go toe-to-toe because I know that’s what he’s all about. He loves it. And I love it too.”

Nyika vs Masson

IBF Cruiserweight World Title eliminator

Saturday 8 August, 2026

Eventfinda Stadium, Auckland

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/new-zealand-boxer-david-nyika-on-fiancees-cancer-fight/

All Blacks fullback Will Jordan is back for the Crusaders and he’s daring Chiefs fans to bring as many cowbells as they can carry for what he believes will be a “heated” clash in Christchurch.

The latest chapter in rugby’s unlikely cowbell war kicked off again on Wednesday, when Chiefs boss Simon Graafhuis encouraged supporters to ignore the ban on the noise-making instruments, even offering prizes to successful smugglers.

“We want to see your most creative smuggling efforts. Hidden in jackets, disguised as emotional support equipment, packed in children’s lunchboxes.”

The Crusaders hit back with chief executive Colin Mansbridge threatening to melt any of the noise making instruments they manage to confiscate.

There’s history behind the cowbell beef.

Ahead of last year’s Super Rugby Pacific final, Mansbridge imposed a ban on cowbells from Appollo Projects Stadium and that ban appears to have been extended to their Christchurch’s new Te Kaha Stadium, the venue for Friday night’s clash between the defending champions and the Chiefs.

“We have a melting station set up at each gate and we propose turning any confiscated into scaffolding to take home with them to help them make a roof for their stadium so that they can diminish their jealousy,” Mansbridge said.

Jordan is back for the defending champions after more than a month on the sidelines with a calf injury and the All Blacks star is set to play his first game at Te Kaha, after missing the Crusaders first couple of matches at their new ground.

He doesn’t mind if Chiefs fans get a few cowbells through the gates.

“I’m happy for the cowbells to chirp, yeah, bring them down,” Jordan said.

“I’d like to think in 25,000 seats there’ll be a few more red and black jerseys than cowbells, but you never know.

“It’s all part of it and makes for a great atmosphere. A few Chiefs fans might have come down for a super round, so they might be back again if they enjoyed the experience. Bring it on.”

The rivalry between the two sides is one of the most fierce in Super Rugby, with emotions boiling over in their most recent match, a 43-33 win to the Crusaders in Hamilton in round three.

Referee James Doleman was forced to intervene, giving the Chiefs a stern halftime warning as tempers threatened to spill over.

Jordan is expecting another physical contest on Friday night.

“They always reasonably heated games against the Chiefs,” Jordan said.

“I think back to the likes of Brodie Retallick and those sorts of men who used to love getting stuck into it. So I think it’s always been the nature of this fixture a little bit.

“That’s part of it – two proud teams going at it.”

He said the neither team can afford any ill-discipline at Te Kaha, with both sides hoping to finish as far up the ladder as possible.

“Things maybe got a little bit above board in that game in round three and I thought we did a good job of being able to kind of focus in the second half and I guess harness that energy into something positive.

“The message is look out for your mate but make sure that when it comes to the next task or the next moment you’ve got a pretty clear mind around what you’re trying to do.”

With two rounds remaining before the playoffs the Crusaders are fourth in the standings on 32 points, with the Chiefs second on 45. The Hurricanes top the table on 50 points, with the Blues third on 38.

The top six teams qualify for the finals.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/crusaders-v-chiefs-rivalry-rings-loud-as-will-jordan-welcomes-cowbells/

Five-eighth Chanel Harris-Tavita will spend at least another year with NZ Warriors, after signing a contract extension through the 2027 season.

Harris-Tavita, 27, is currently on the last season of his current deal and has been exploring his future on the open market, reportedly limiting his availability to just one year.

Since debuting with the Warriors in 2019, he has brought up 102 appearances, celebrating his century against the Dolphins in Wellington this month.

Harris-Tavita became a fan favourite after rupturing a testicle in action during the 2022 season, and stepped away from rugby league the following year to travel the world, returning in 2024.

He played all but one game during the 2025 season – scoring eight tries in 24 games, – and has proved his value to the team during the current campaign, scoring a try double in the season-opening win over Sydney Roosters.

He missed a game with concussion and was then dropped for two more – the Warriors’ only two defeats this season – to accommodate Luke Metcalf’s return from injury.

Harris-Tavita was restored to the starting line-up in the historic win over Melbourne Storm and has become a fixture during the subsequent five-game streak, especially with his defensive abilities.

“There’s so much to like about the way Chanel goes about his game,” said Warriors coach Andrew Webster. “He’s so consistent and, this season, he has been in career-best form.

“Quite apart from his playing role, he brings so much energy to the team through his defence and the way he competes.

“He has been awesome this year and we were very keen for him to stay here.”

In recent weeks, the Warriors have been occupied trying to untangle the logjam in the half positions, with Webster sticking with Tanah Boyd in the No.7 jersey, while trying Metcalf outside him.

Metcalf’s decision to seek a future elsewhere has probably helped the club retain Harris-Tavita, while the Warriors are reportedly close to extending Boyd and veteran Te Maire Martin past this season.

After Boyd’s season-ending knee injury last weekend, Harris-Tavita must now form a combination with a different halves partner. Martin will fill the starting halfback role against St George-Illawarra Dragons on Saturday, but Metcalf may still return to his preferred position this season.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/nrl-nz-warriors-extend-chanel-harris-tavitas-contract-through-2027/

Former Black Ferns Sevens star Michaela Brake is set to return to the side following a stint in league and the birth of her first child.

Brake signed a new contract with New Zealand Rugby to the end of 2027.

The two-time Olympic Gold medallist, had her baby boy Harvey in March this year.

Last year she became women’s Sevens most prolific try scorer with 273 tries.

She last wore the Black Ferns Sevens jersey in May 2025 in Los Angeles where New Zealand was crowned World Series winners for the eighth time.

She then signed a one-year deal with the Warriors to play rugby league, but had her season cut short due to her pregnancy.

The 30-year-old was looking forward to easing back into the Black Ferns Sevens environment in the coming months, but knows she would have to fight for her place.

“The last nine months have been humbling, pregnancy has been a journey and it’s made me appreciate women’s bodies a lot more than I did before. The arrival of my son Harvey has been such a joy and I’m now in a place mentally where I want to come back,” Brake said.

“I love this team and this game so much. It’s been incredibly exciting watching the young talent come through. They’ve stepped up massively this year and I’m so proud of them. But when I come back, I’m going to be that aunty that’s annoying, and I’m going to be fighting for my position.”

Brake expected some “trial and error” as she gets to grips with the demands of Sevens again.

“I now call myself a fulltime mum and a part time rugby player because the well-being of my son comes first, so the fact I’m able to still be able to play rugby and come back to the Black Ferns Sevens is such a privilege.

“I’m very lucky to be in a position where I can come back and to have so much support around me who are helping me along the way.”

Black Ferns coach Cory Sweeney was excited about Brake’s fulltime return to the team later this year.

“Michaela is hugely important to our group, not only for what she brings to the field but also as a positive influence in the way she carries herself and the intensity, focus and professionalism she brings to training every day.

“She has stayed connected with our group, but we’re looking forward to officially welcoming her back to the environment.”

Sweeney said there was no set timeline on her return to play.

“She’s a remarkable athlete and incredibly competitive, but we’ll take our time and manage her transition back into training through the second half of the year.”

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/sevens-star-michaela-brake-to-make-black-ferns-return/

Mystics star defender Catherine Hall has been ruled out of the rest of the ANZ Premiership season due to injury, leaving her Silver Ferns Commonwealth Games prospects in serious doubt.

Hall could be seen on crutches when the Mystics beat the Stars 57-51 on Saturday to sit third on the ANZ Premiership ladder after six rounds.

Hall had to leave the court late in round five when it looked like she jarred her foot.

The Mystics on the weekend said they were waiting on scan results to determine the seriousness of the injury but the franchise issued an update on Thursday.

Mystics head coach Tia Winikerei said Hall underwent surgery to her foot on Monday.

“As a result of this Catherine won’t play for the Mystics again in 2026. She is recovering well and is in the good hands of our medical staff.

“The Mystics whānau are devastated that she won’t be able to play for the Mystics again this season and we’ve wrapped our love and support around her, she is still a massive part of our team.”

It’s unclear how long Hall will be off her feet.

Netball New Zealand said Hall was currently in rehabilitation with the Silver Ferns high performance team.

“She is working closely with medical staff and is being well supported. Her rehabilitation plan is in its initial planning phase, and we will provide an update when appropriate.”

The Silver Ferns’ selectors are due to pick the Commonwealth Games team on 1 June, in order to meet the New Zealand Olympic Committee deadline.

Hall is leading the league for both deflections and intercepts and was one of the best in the ANZ Premiership. She got her Silver Ferns debut last year and gave a glimpse of what she is capable of on the international stage.

Despite only having a handful of test caps, the national selectors would surely have pencilled the 22-year-old in for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, starting 23 July.

With around two months before the Silver Ferns’ first game against Scotland on 25 July, Hall would be in a race against time.

Leading up to the 2022 Commonwealth Games, shooter Grace Nweke injured her ankle and was named in the team, subject to medical clearance. Travelling and non-travelling reserves were also named but not required.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/injury-rules-catherine-hall-out-of-anz-premiership-commonwealth-games-in-doubt/

MIL OSI

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/what-kylie-minogue-learned-from-michael-hutchence-and-nick-cave/

May 23rd is World Fish Migration Day – a worldwide celebration of free-flowing rivers and the life they support. We have some very special fish here in Aotearoa, and this year we’re literally shining a spotlight on five species of galaxiid that move between freshwater and the sea during their lives.  

So, so, much more than fritter-fare 

The galaxiid species are collectively known as whitebait and they’re caught in their tens of thousands around the country as they migrate into and up rivers in the spring. And traditionally made into fritters. A touch of egg, salt, two minutes in the pan, white bread, squeeze of lemon, and you’re holding a Kiwi icon in your hand. 

But as we’re about to find out, there’s a whole lot more to whitebait than that.  

Before the 1960s many scientists thought whitebait was just one species – īnanga. But enter Bob McDowall, the ‘godfather’ of New Zealand freshwater ecology. In 1964, his research found several different species in the Awarua River in South Westland. Later that decade the five galaxiids we know today were described and reported in the scientific literature.  

Here’s roughly what’s in a typical whitebait catch: 
→ 85% īnanga (Galaxias maculatus)
→ 5–10% kōaro (Galaxias brevipinnis) and banded kōkopu (Galaxias fasciatus)
→ less than 1% giant kōkopu (Galaxias argenteus) and shortjaw kōkopu (Galaxias postvectis)

There are also likely to be smelt and possibly other species like eels present. (Fun fact: the name galaxiid comes from ‘galaxy’, after the starry pattern found on the skin of adult fish.) 

Digging into the mystery 

McDowall and his colleague Tony Eldon went on to publish a report called The Ecology of Whitebait Migrations in 1980. It’s become a bit of a classic.  

This was the first time the whitebait fishery had been examined in such detail (173 pages of detail), including the numbers and mix of species present, timing of whitebait runs, water level and temperature, salinity, sediment, weather conditions and day length reported across several rivers.

One of the most helpful things in the report is a line drawing of the five species, and information about how to tell them apart. 

McDowall rather delightfully notes: 

The species also differ in stoutness…G. fasciatus, though the smallest whitebait, is also the stoutest, G. brevipinnis is intermediate in stoutness, and G. maculatus is generally the largest and most slender. 

Time for an update 

That guide was published 46 years ago and we thought it was time to put out an updated version – something our staff and whitebait fishers could use to find out which species were being caught when and where around the country.  

We’re proud to be working with a contemporary expert, Professor Angus McIntosh. He’s a freshwater ecologist based at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury. Not only is he a freshwater researcher, he’s also a passionate and excellent photographer.  

“We’re essentially updating the identification guide, trying to figure out who all the galaxiids are, given the subtleties of how they’re different. It’s very interesting and quite a mystery – but also a lot of fun,” Angus says. 

The tech we have to hand now is a lot more powerful with digital photography, online databases like iNaturalist, affordable genetic analyses and AI species detection available.   

“One of the main differences is that McDowall worked on preserved or frozen specimens under a microscope. Our goal is to produce something that could be used with a fish viewing box or a good quality photo. Obviously that’s a lot more challenging.”  

While adult galaxiids look really different to each other as adults, they’re very similar as juveniles.  

“We’re looking to identify them when they’re about 5 cm long and have been in the rivers for just 4–6 weeks – before they develop pigmentation.” (Pigmentation is an adaptation that makes them less visible in freshwater than translucent sea-going fish.)

Close-up photography reveals patterns and colours that could help identify different species. Photo: Angus McIntosh 

Wriggly little fish just keep on swimming  

Photographing tiny fish isn’t easy, but Angus has developed a few techniques that make it possible.   

“I have a tank that I use, so I took this over to Hokitika and set it up in DOC’s garage. Suze Harris, DOC Freshwater Ranger, and I went out and caught a range of fish in streams and at the river mouth. We brought them back and put them into the tank to photograph, a few at a time.”  

The challenges build because the fish need to be square on, with head and tail in focus. This orientation best shows the features needed for identification.  

“When you’re working in macro, the depth of focus is very shallow, so there’s not much to work with. I’m also using flash with a soft box to reduce the shadows. And I have a big, black, blanket over the top of me to reduce the reflection in the glass of the tank.  

“So I’m sitting there trying really hard to get a fish in focus and fire the flash at the right time, under a blanket and only looking through the viewfinder. It’s quite comical!

Identifying characteristics  

Here are some of the stand-out features that generally help identify the species: 
→ Bandeds have big eyes.
→ Giants have big mouths.
→ Shortjaws have an undershot jaw even as juveniles.
→ Kōaro have a snout-shaped head. 

There are more subtle differences like how far the edge of the mouth extends under the eye, and the placement and angles of their fins.

Not only is this work replicating McDowall’s identification chart, it’s also showing up some quite new features.  

“We’ve noticed that bandeds have colouration on their heads that nobody has ever identified before – iridescent blue with white spots. Kōaro can be quite golden when they’re young, and kind of sit up a bit. Īnanga have a small mouth but develop pigmentation quite early. We’ve also seen distinctive colour patterns like two lines under their bellies that might be characteristic.”  

Zeroing in on a correct ID   

Even with these detailed photos, it’s not easy to distinguish some of the species. It’s also hard to find some of the rarer species, like shortjaw that only make up a really small percentage of the fish.  

“They’re the one in a hundred fish – so it’s going to take a few trips to the coast to get those done. The goal is to have photos of each species at four different life stages.   

“We talk to our colleagues and try to agree the characteristics among ourselves. We can also use genetic analysis to confirm the identifications of particular fish we’ve photographed.”

Research for a sustainable fishery  

In the foreword to McDowall’s report it says:  

Maintenance of the unique whitebait fishery poses a series of unusual problems, but it is quite apparent that appropriate resource management cannot be achieved unless the fish themselves are better understood. 

This premise is still true today – it’s the basis of our work to manage the whitebait fishery to ensure its sustainable and will be there for future generations.  

“We’re trying to solve the same problems – the fish haven’t changed but we’ve got much better methods than they had.”  

What has changed is the urgency of the task. Whitebait were once a plentiful resource but catches have declined, even from the 1980s, and all the species are now threatened or at-risk of extinction.  

Whitebait are in trouble because of the loss of spawning habitat, water pollution, predation by invasive species and barriers like dams, culverts and floodgates that make it hard for them to swim between rivers and the sea. 

“I hope my photos can support DOC in their important work to better understand and protect these amazing fish.”  

Thanks Angus – you’re a star 

Angus has generously shared his fish photos with us over the years. We are very grateful for the opportunity to use them – they show the beauty that would otherwise be missed. THANK YOU ANGUS!  

“When life is a bit less busy and maybe when I retire, I really want to spend 5 years on the photography – there are so many things that people just don’t get to see.”  

We’re definitely looking forward to that! (And we’ll let you know when the guide is done.)

Links 

McDowall and Eldon report
How you can help whitebait: Whitebait

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/22/smile-for-the-camera-using-new-tech-to-identify-baby-native-fish-2/

The Hurricanes halfback Ereatara Enari will leave the franchise at the end of the Super Rugby season to join Welsh club Dragons.

The 28-year-old former Samoa international was first named in the Hurricanes squad in November 2024 and has since played 22 games for the side.

Before joining the Hurricanes Enari played for Moana Pasifika and before that the Crusaders, where he was part of five title-winning teams.

He has played NPC for Canterbury and Hawke’s Bay since, winning two titles with Canterbury and the Ranfurly Shield.

He has played nine games for Samoa and featured at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Enari played for the New Zealand U20s in 2016 and 2017.

He said he has loved his time at the Hurricanes, but he’s looking forward to experiencing life in the UK.

“Firstly, I want to say how blessed and grateful we are that God brought Ella and I to the Hurricanes family for the past two seasons. It truly is one of the greatest team environments I’ve been a part of,” Enari said.

“It’s a bittersweet feeling to be leaving an environment that provides such a safe space for both of us and a lot of joy both on and off the field, but we’ve been praying for God to open doors overseas and here we are.

“After 10 years of my career in New Zealand, it’s time for a new challenge in a foreign environment and we are definitely not closing the door on New Zealand for good. It’s such a privilege to serve this team, and the main goal between now and July is to finish the job in front of us for our people.”

Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said Enari had made a significant contribution to the team.

“Ere is an ultimate team man, hugely selfless, a man that has high values, high work ethic, and is playing some very good rugby,” Laidlaw said.

“He came in a couple of years ago when TJ Perenara left and we were looking for somebody to call on alongside Cam and the team.

“I think the performance against the Blues sums up how good we think he is. We’ve got a huge amount of trust and belief in his ability, and everybody else got to see that on Saturday.

“We wish him and his partner Ella all the best in their next adventure.”

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/halfback-ereatara-enari-leaving-hurricanes-for-wales/

Auckland FC will play South Melbourne in the inaugural OFC Pro League final.

Auckland beat South Island United 1-0 in their semi-final at Mount Smart.

Substitute Isa Prins headed home the winner in the second half.

South Melbourne beat Vanuatu United 4-0 in the other semi-final.

Auckland’s win mean they qualify for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup as South Melbourne are ineligible because Australian teams are a part of the Asian Football Confederation.

The final is at Eden Park on Sunday.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/21/auckland-fc-pip-south-island-united-for-place-in-pro-league-final/

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 May 2026 – Green SM, Indonesia’s first all-electric ride-hailing service, has partnered with the Traffic Corps of the Indonesian National Police (Korlantas Polri) to launch a large-scale driver safety and professional standards training program in Indonesia. The initiative begins with more than 300 driver partners and is expected to expand to approximately 7,000 participants nationwide this year.

Held at the Indonesia Safety Driving Center (ISDC) in Serpong on May 18, 2026, the program provided participants with practical instruction in defensive driving, emergency response, professional driving ethics, and Indonesian traffic regulations. The initiative combines classroom learning with hands-on exercises conducted in a controlled training environment at one of Indonesia’s leading driving safety facilities. The program reflects Green SM’s long-term commitment to building a professional driver network while promoting safer mobility experiences and higher service standards for Indonesian communities.

Since its launch in Indonesia in December 2024, Green SM had already implemented regular internal training programs for driver partners, focusing on safe driving practices, real-world situation handling, customer service standards, and traffic law compliance. Through this partnership, Green SM aims to further strengthen and standardize its training initiatives while also contributing to broader road safety awareness across Indonesia.

As of April 2026, Green SM vehicles have traveled more than 109 million kilometers across Indonesia, contributing to the reduction of approximately 20.9 thousand tons of CO2 emisssions, equivalent to the annual carbon absorption capacity of more than 964 thousand trees. As the company continues to expand, Green SM remains focused on supporting driver capability development and service quality initiatives to support safer and more reliable mobility experiences. Safety remains one of Green SM’s core operational priorities, spanning driver training, service standards, and the overall customer journey across every ride.

Korlantas Polri, the national authority responsible for traffic management, law enforcement, and road safety education across Indonesia, is supporting the initiative as part of broader efforts to encourage safer and more disciplined driving practices nationwide.

This program marks an important first step in the collaboration between Green SM and Korlantas Polri. Both parties expect to explore additional initiatives in the future to promote responsible driving practices and contribute positively to Indonesia’s evolving transportation ecosystem.

Mr. Deny Tjia, Managing Director of Green SM Indonesia, shared: “Our driver partners represent Green SM in every journey they complete. Through this program, we aim to strengthen their practical driving skills, road safety awareness, and service professionalism, while continuing to elevate the overall customer experience across Indonesia. At Green SM, safety is not only an operational standard, but also a long-term commitment embedded in how we develop and deliver our services in Indonesia. We are honored to work with Korlantas Polri and hope this collaboration can create meaningful benefits for both our drivers and the wider community.”

Head of the Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas) of the Indonesian National Police, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, stated, “The training is part of an effort to promote road safety, security, order, and smooth traffic flow. This collaboration in enhancing driver capabilities is important as part of efforts to improve driver professionalism, as the driver aspect plays a crucial role. We hope this initiative can serve as a benchmark.”

Through this initiative, Green SM and Korlantas Polri aim to promote higher standards of responsibility and professionalism that benefit drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and the broader transportation ecosystem across Indonesia.

Hashtag: #GreenSM

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

UFC Fighter meet-and-greets, autograph sessions, official merchandise sales and Galaxy Macau rewards take the fan thrills beyond the Octagon

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 May 2026 – VinFast has officially launched the Early Booking Program for three battery-swapping e-motorcycle models in Indonesia, including the VinFast Evo, VinFast Feliz II, and VinFast Viper. This marks the next step in VinFast’s strategy to expand its comprehensive green mobility ecosystem in Indonesia, reaffirming the Company’s strong commitment to one of the region’s largest two-wheeler markets.

The three new models are designed to meet the diverse mobility needs of Indonesian consumers, ranging from daily urban commuting and business purposes to modern lifestyle aspirations. Accompanying the product lineup is a flexible battery ownership model, allowing customers to choose between battery subscription, battery swapping, or purchasing vehicles with batteries included, depending on their preferences and usage needs.

The Early Booking Program will run from May 20, 2026 to June 20, 2026 via the official website: Vinfastauto.id. Customers can conveniently select their preferred e-motorcycle model and area when placing the deposit, or contact the hotline at 1500083 for assistance.

VinFast has also announced pricing for the three models under the Early Booking Program. Accordingly, the VinFast Evo is priced at 18,980,000 IDR (with battery subscription) and 26,260,000 IDR (including 2 batteries). The VinFast Feliz II is priced at 20,100,000 IDR (with battery subscription) and 27,380,000 IDR (including 2 batteries). Meanwhile, the VinFast Viper is priced at 24,410,000 IDR (with battery subscription) and 31,690,000 IDR (including 2 batteries).

Customers who complete bookings during the period from May 20, 2026 to June 20, 2026 will receive a special discount valued at IDR 1.6 million. The booking fee is IDR 1 million and is non-refundable. The first deliveries to Indonesian customers are expected to begin in June 2026.

Ms. Vo Thi Cam Tu, Managing Director of VinFast E-motorcycles Overseas Market, said: “Indonesia is one of the world’s largest and most dynamic two-wheeler markets, and is also entering a period of rapid transition toward green mobility. The simultaneous launch of three battery-swapping e-motorcycle models demonstrates VinFast’s serious commitment and long-term strategy in building a sustainable mobility ecosystem in Indonesia. We are not only introducing high-quality, smart, and accessible products, but are also investing comprehensively in charging and battery-swapping infrastructure to accelerate and simplify the green transition for Indonesian consumers.”

Among the three new models, the VinFast Viper is designed for young customers who favor sporty styling and modern technology. The vehicle is equipped with a range of smart features, including a Smart Key system with remote vehicle tracking and locating functions, as well as remote on/off control to enhance anti-theft protection.

In addition, the VinFast Viper features a TFT display, projector headlights, and dual rear shock absorbers with external reservoirs, providing enhanced stability and riding comfort across various road conditions.

Meanwhile, the VinFast Feliz II and VinFast Evo inherit the proven strengths of previous-generation models in Vietnam, while being further optimized to better meet the practical needs of Indonesian consumers.

The VinFast Viper, VinFast Feliz II, and VinFast Evo are all equipped with a maximum 5,200W BLDC in-wheel motor, delivering strong performance for urban mobility. The Viper and Feliz II support top speeds of up to 90 km/h, while the Evo reaches up to 80 km/h.

The VinFast Evo, Feliz II, and Viper are all designed with dual battery compartments positioned beneath the seat, optimizing storage space while enabling convenient battery installation and swapping. All three models use modern 2 x 1.5 kWh LFP batteries, known for their durability and high safety standards.

With two fully charged batteries, the VinFast Evo can travel up to 150 km under standard conditions, while the VinFast Viper and VinFast Feliz II offer ranges of up to 145 km. These figures stand out within the urban e-motorcycle segment, providing users with confidence for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

Customers may choose to subscribe to two batteries at a monthly fee of 84,000 IDR/month x 2, or purchase vehicles with batteries included, depending on their needs. Battery swapping fees are set at 6,000 IDR per battery per swap.

In addition to battery swapping, users can also charge batteries directly at home or at public charging stations. Through a strategic partnership with global charging infrastructure developer V-Green, VinFast is actively deploying battery-swapping and charging stations across multiple areas in Indonesia to provide customers with a convenient, fast, and optimized ownership experience.

Notably, all VinFast e-motorcycle models will enjoy free battery swapping at V-Green Battery Swap stations (BSS) for one year (up to 20 swaps per month per vehicle), together with a vehicle warranty of up to 6 years or 72,000 km (whichever comes first), helping to significantly reduce operating costs and encourage consumers to transition to green mobility solutions.

Indonesia is currently one of the world’s largest two-wheeler markets. Combined with supportive clean-energy transition policies from the Indonesian government, the electric two-wheeler market is expected to hold tremendous growth potential in the coming years. With a well-structured investment strategy, a comprehensive ecosystem, and a diverse product portfolio, VinFast aims to accompany Indonesia in building a greener, more modern, and sustainable future for all.

Earlier this year, VinFast announced plans to expand its electric two-wheeler business into international markets, with the first five key markets expected to include the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Thailand, and Malaysia. These markets all possess strong growth potential, high urban mobility demand, and increasingly clear trends toward green transportation solutions.

In recent years, VinFast has established a green mobility ecosystem in the Philippines, Indonesia, India, and other markets through partnerships with reputable local companies, alongside strategic ecosystem partners such as GSM, an all-electric taxi operator, and V-Green. In addition to e-motorcycles, VinFast has also introduced a diverse lineup of e-bikes, e-buses, and electric vehicles, further expanding consumer choices in the transition toward sustainable transportation.

https://vinfastauto.id/

Hashtag: #VinFast

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

PSNA says the shift of the Israeli embassy into the Fisher Funds building in Wellington has concerned other tenants in the office high rise.

The Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa is citing the Wellington Post front-page article which reported only some occupants of the 13-storey site had been told that Israel was moving in.

PSNA spokesperson Rinad Tamimi says the building’s owner was obviously trying to keep the arrival of the embassy a secret until it was too late to object.

“It’s pretty obvious why.  The Fisher Funds building is owned by Prime Property Group, which is controlled by rich-lister and former Israeli Defence Force major, Eyal Aharoni.”

“He’s looking after his own.”

Tamimi says the solution to the embassy location concern was the New Zealand government could expel the ambassador and his staff.

“We broke off diplomatic relations when it was discovered Israel’s Mossad spy agency had been getting fake New Zealand passports.  So, there is a precedent.”

“It all comes down to the fact that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.  It’s the world’s worst atrocity of this century and shamefully its ongoing perpetrators are flying their flag over our capital city,” Tamimi says.

“At this very moment, Israel is firing on the Sumud Flotilla trying to bring aid to Gaza and kidnapping and assaulting New Zealand citizens on that convoy.”

“Our ministers are shaking hands with the people who represent this illegal violence in international waters.”

Tamimi says though Fisher Funds does not own the building it operates out of, it must have powers as the holder of naming rights.

“If Fisher Funds’ CEO was to represent its KiwiSaver stakeholder interests, then he would tell Aharoni to find somewhere else for the Israelis to go to.”

“But since the CEO is an ex-minister of the National Party – Simon Power – then the head of Fisher Fund appears to part of the problem and not the solution.”

Rinad Tamimi

National Spokesperson

PSNA

MIL OSI

MIL OSI