2025 TRENDY TAIPEI Officially Kicks Off

August 18, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – Over 150 music performances in two weeks, 35+ cross-industry music forums—Taipei launches Asia’s newest music platform and showcases its soft power.

The 2025 “TRENDY TAIPEI” will take place from August 25 to September 7, featuring over 150 music performances and 39 professional forums across 14 consecutive days, inviting both residents and visitors to join the celebration.

7/31 Taipei City Government held a press conference at Taipei Music Center to announce the grand launch of 2025 TRENDY TAIPEI, starting on August 25. This year’s theme, “TRENDY TAIPEI: IT’S NOW”, highlights the energy and immediacy of the current music scene. The project is structured around three major acpects—The Concert Economy, Industry Trends, and Urban Actions, spanning six thematic areas such as music, art, audiovisual, technology, gaming and fashion. Starting from August 25 to September 7, the festival features over 150 music performances, 39 professional forums and citywide activities, making it the most chill and trendiest event of the summer. This is a can’t-miss experience for music and art enthusiasts.

14 Signature Events Announced: From Taipei Arena and Taipei Music Center to Live Houses Across the City

Mayor Chiang Wan-an mentioned that Taipei is the core of Taiwan’s pop music and creative industries with mature production infrastructure and venue resources. In 2024, the representing venues of the city hosted more than 530 concerts with nearly 2 million attendees. “2025 TRENDY TAIPEI” is an international metropolitan music festival unique to Taipei, aiming to showcase the city’s creative energy and charm to the world. This year, the goal is simple: bring music out of the concert halls and into the streets, allowing people to feel the rhythm everywhere—from alleyways and cultural venues to shopping districts and even MRT stations.

The programming focuses on three areas:

The Concert Economy – activating consumption through music and connecting performance venues across Taipei.
Industry Trends – featuring expert forums discussing the trend and the future of the music industry.
Urban Actions – engaging cultural landmarks throughout the city.

Director of The Department of Cultural Affairs Tsai Shih-ping noted that unlike last year’s pilot edition, this year focuses more deeply on the Concert Economy driven by music to boost tourism and consumption with big concerts, trying to make music the momentum of industry developing. The newly introduced TRENDY TAIPEI Boom: Taipei Arena Series will feature top artists from Taiwan, Japan, and Korea from September 5–7, with tickets already selling fast online via Kham ticketing. Additionally, Taipei Very Live will take place August 8 to September 7, connecting 22 Live Houses and music restaurants with 50+ diverse performances including rock, jazz, pop. Let the city glow with life from twilight to midnight and create Taipei’s nighttime music map.

The chairwoman of Taipei Music Center Sandy Huang emphasized that Taipei Music Center is an administrative organization dedicated to promoting pop music and also serves as one of the key venues representing the development of the pop music scene, This year’s TAIPEI MUSIC EXPO (TMEX) and JAM JAM ASIA present 70 performances from August 28–31, with tickets now on sale. International collaborations aim to give local audiences fresh musical experiences.

The Industry Trends section allows Taipei to connect with the world and talk to the future by immersive exhibitions and global forums. The TRENDY Fusion Forum will take place at Ambi Space One. It will host renowned guests like Sebastian Masuda (pioneer of Japanese Kawaii culture) and Cha Haley (K-pop industry strategist), who will offer global insights on pop culture and music and bring valuable international perspectives and industry insights to the forum . TMEX, Asia’s leading music industry expo, will gather representatives from 10 APAC countries and 60 exhibitors, including major festivals like Busan Rock Festival, Zandari Festa (Seoul), Thailand’s Big Mountain Festival, and venues like Zepp and Duo Live House (JP). International delegates this year expanded from 25 to over 100, including top figures like the chairman of Busan Metropolitan City Festival Committee Nam Deok-hyun(transliteration) , The curator of SXSW Sydney Kartini Ludwig, the program director of 988 FM Malaysia Hu Bi-Ai (transliteration) and Senior Program Director of MY FM Chou Wei-Wen (transliteration). New this year is an Industry Matchmaking Day, facilitating real collaborations between artists and professionals.

Other highlights include:

StartSphere Taipei, featuring startups from six countries including Japan, Korea, the US, Thailand, Vietnam and other countries.
Taipei Film Academy focuses on “AI and the Future of Film”, inviting people in the movie industry in Taiwan and abroad to explore the possibilities of technology and filming.

Urban Actions:
Expanding into neighborhoods this year , bringing music closer to everyday life and offer everyone more chances to take part in events and sense the charm of music and culture. Notable activations:

Taipei City Archives: “Taipei Pop Music Landscapes” exhibition explores the memories of city pop music .
MoCA Taipei: “NOW, I Want to Go to the Museum Too!” mixing market, creativity, music, and desserts, showcasing the city’s fresh, vibrant energy.
Taipe Artist Village: “Now Electric Lane Arts Festival” featuring 7 artist teams.
Taipei Performing Arts Center: “Shilin Fairyland Party + Silent Disco.”
Songshan Cultural Park: “Summer SongSong—Taipei Remix,” a weekend marketplace of music, creativity, and experience.

For the first time, the event extends to Taipei MRT:

“MRT Nakashi” program at Xinbeitou branch line featuring traditional moon guitar (yueqin).
“TRENDY TAIPEI Sound Experience” at Nangang Station, creating a sonic journey through commuting spaces.

Star Bands and the Surprise Trio “Wan-Ping-Ling” Kick Off the Festival

The press conference opened with rising bands from the Taipei Music Center’s Open Lab and JAM JAM ASIA’s “Seizer.” They passed the torch to this year’s Golden Melody-winning band TRASH, representing the link from indie showcases to the headline Taipei Arena series. But the biggest surprise was the debut of “Wan-Ping-Ling”, a special one-time band formed by Mayor Chiang Wan-an, Director Tsai Shih-ping, and Chairwoman Sandy Huang. Their band name combines one character from each of their names, symbolizing cross-sector collaboration and co-creation.

TRENDY Bus, Giant Guitar, and MRT Car—Come Take a Selfie!

Special attractions include the TRENDY Double-Decker Bus, running August 30–31 (five trips daily), featuring live performances by the Taipei Jazz Orchestra and Open Up! rising artists, stopping at Taipei 101, Songshan Cultural Park, and Taipei Music Center for JAM JAM ASIA.

Another must-see: the Giant Electric Guitar installation at City Hall Plaza (until September 7). Take a photo, upload it to the official TRENDY TAIPEI fan page, and enter to win limited-edition TRENDY merch.

From mid-August, a TRENDY-themed MRT train will also hit the tracks—inviting citizens to experience the pulse of Taipei’s music city like never before.

TRENDY TAIPEI is brought to life through the collaboration of Taipei’s Department of Cultural Affairs, Department of Information and Tourism, Department of Economic Development, Department of Information Technology and Taipei Music Center. It is also proudly supported by major sponsors including NVIDIA, Cathay United Bank, Taiwan Mobile, Uni-President Group, Heineken Silver, Eslite, Open Culture Foundation, Hanlai Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Taipei Downtown, The Place Taipei, MESh+ Co.Ltd., CITYLINK, and YSOLIFE.

With its blend of concerts, performances, forums, exhibitions, and marketplaces, TRENDY TAIPEI welcomes music lovers, creatives, tech enthusiasts, and casual passersby to find inspiration and resonance in the city. Let’s walk into the city, listen to the rhythm of now, and witness how creativity redefines the power of the moment.

For more information, visit the official TRENDY TAIPEI and Taipei Music Center websites and social channels.

Hashtag: #2025TRENDYTAIPEI

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

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

Biggest building consent system reform in decades

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is announcing the biggest change to the building consent system since the Building Act came into force in 2004, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.

“The building sector has the potential to be an economic powerhouse, yet productivity has stalled since 1985 despite major advances in building methods and technology,” Mr Penk says.

“New Zealand’s sluggish consenting system is delaying projects and driving up costs, making the average standalone house here 50 percent more expensive to build than in Australia.

“We must eliminate system blockages to speed up the delivery of new homes and infrastructure.

“Today, we are announcing plans to ease the cost burden on ratepayers for defective building work.

“Right now, councils are hesitant to sign off on building consents and inspections because they could be held liable for all defects, leaving ratepayers to foot the bill.

“This often happens when one of the parties responsible cannot pay for repairs, for example, if a business goes bust.

“Currently, building owners can claim full compensation from any responsible party – and it’s often councils, with the deepest pockets and no option to walk away, that end up paying out.

“The risk-aversion this creates leads to frustrating delays and extra cost for builders and homeowners.

“A case in Queenstown shows the scale of this issue. In 2015, the Oaks Shores body corporate filed a $160 million claim for weathertight defects. The developer had been placed into voluntary liquidation and was not sued, leaving ratepayers exposed to the entire claim.

“If the case hadn’t been settled privately, ratepayers could have faced rates increases of $300 a year for 30 years.

“It’s time to put the responsibility where it belongs.

“The Government will scrap the current framework, known as joint and several liability, and replace it with proportionate liability.

“Under this new model, each party will only be responsible for the share of work they carried out.

“Building owners will be protected if things go wrong and we’re exploring options such as requiring professional indemnity insurance and home warranties, similar to arrangements in Australia.

“The second major change I am announcing will allow councils to voluntarily consolidate their Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) functions with each other.

“It is ridiculous builders, designers and homeowners must navigate 66 different interpretations of the Building Code, because of the number of council BCAs across the country.

“Builders can be rejected on paperwork that would be accepted by a neighbouring authority simply because each BCA applies the rules differently.

“Many councils have asked for this and I expect they will seize the opportunity to consolidate, share resources like building inspectors and IT systems, and pass the savings on to ratepayers.

“Clearing blockages in the building consent system to make it easier and more affordable to build is an important part of this Government’s economic growth plan.

“We know the sector is behind us. New Zealand Certified Builders have said that this is the most significant change for the building industry in a generation, that it has been a long time coming and the change is welcomed by the industry.

“We are determined to get the building and construction sector firing on all cylinders, and that requires bold change.

“This Government is making that change.”

Notes to editor:

Changes to liability settings and measures to enable voluntary BCA consolidation will be made by amending the Building Act 2004. The Government expects to introduce a Bill to Parliament in early 2026.
The Government is investigating supporting mechanisms for proportionate liability. These may include:
- Requiring home warranties for certain building projects, with an option to opt out
- Requiring professional indemnity insurance
Regulatory changes to support BCA consolidation will include removing the requirement for a Territorial Authority (TA) to be a BCA providing they transfer their building control functions to another accredited BCA, removing restrictions on TAs transferring their building consent functions to a non-TA organisation, and updating and standardising regulations to eliminate duplication and incentivize collaboration.

MIL OSI

Local News – Postgate pump track officially opened – Porirua City Council

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: Porirua City Council

The Postgate pump track in the Porirua suburb of Whitby has officially opened.

After a delay of a week due to foul weather, the ceremonial ribbon cutting was carried out on Friday 15 August. The mastermind of the project, Whitby’s Daniel Heath, says the fences came down earlier that week and dozens of skaters and bikers were riding over it every time he went past.

“It’s been chocka most days,” he said.

Through Mana Cycle Group, Daniel applied for funding for the 1000sqm asphalt facility on Postgate Drive, which was built this winter by specialised pump track builders Velosolutions. No ratepayer funding was involved, but Council was happy to make a section of Postgate Park available for the project.

While there have been plenty of wet days over winter, it’s great to see it finished and being used by the community, Daniel said.

“It’s taken three years to get here – three years of funding applications and re-applying and work, but here we are.

“I grew up just doors away from Postgate Park and to drive past the pump track now and see it there, it’s amazing. It really doesn’t look out of place, like it’s always meant to be in this spot.”

The location makes it accessible from walkways across Whitby, eastern Porirua and Bothamley Park. Porirua Manager Parks, Julian Emeny, says this will be an asset for residents and visitors to Porirua alike.

“Congratulations to Dan, Mana Cycle Group and everyone involved with this project, it’s brilliant to see where it’s come from an under-used patch of grass,” he said.

MIL OSI

Property Council welcomes landmark building consent reforms

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: Property Council New Zealand

Property Council New Zealand has welcomed today’s announcement from the Government, describing the reforms as a pragmatic step toward a more consistent and accountable building system.

Chief Executive Leonie Freeman said the move to replace joint and several liability with a proportionate liability model, alongside enabling voluntary consolidation of Building Consent Authorities (BCAs), addresses long-standing issues that have created cost and delay in the sector.

“Joint and several liability has often left councils as the last man standing. Proportionate liability changes this – a shift that the development community supports,” Freeman said.

“Spreading accountability more fairly across the construction pipeline should ease pressure on councils and provide greater certainty for the market. We expect this will also help reduce the risk-averse behaviour that slows down consenting and drives up costs.”

Freeman noted that Property Council members are prepared to play their part.

“Our members are open to sharing liability if it gives councils greater confidence and improves consistency. The detail around mechanisms such as professional indemnity insurance and home warranties will be important for ensuring clarity.”

On BCA consolidation, Freeman said the change could help remove unnecessary complexity.

“Sixty-six different interpretations of the Building Code create inconsistency and duplication. A regionalised model could help streamline processes, but its success will depend on councils’ willingness to work together.”

Freeman said the reforms build on earlier moves to improve access to new building products.

“Addressing both consenting and liability settings is a step in the right direction. These changes have the potential to remove blockages, reduce costs, and provide a more predictable system for everyone involved in the building process.”

About Property Council New Zealand

Property Council is the leading advocate for Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest industry – property.

Property Council New Zealand is the one organisation that collectively champions property. We bring together members from all corners of the property ecosystem to advocate for reduced red tape that enables development, encourages investment, and supports our communities to thrive.

Property is New Zealand’s largest industry, making up 15% of economic activity. As a sector, we employ 10% of New Zealand’s workforce and contribute over $50.2 billion to GDP.

A not-for-profit organisation, the Property Council connects over 10,000 property professionals, championing the interests of over 550 member companies.

Our membership is broad and includes some of the largest commercial and residential property owners and developers in New Zealand. The property industry comes together at our local, national and online events, which offer professional development, exceptional networking and access to industry-leading research.

Our members shape the cities and spaces where New Zealanders live, work, play and shop.

www.propertynz.co.nz

MIL OSI

Universities – Vape messaging targets young people via social media – UoA

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

A leading e-cigarette brand’s global Instagram account is promoting vapes to vast audiences, including in New Zealand, where regulations prohibit vape marketing to young people.

Partnership deals with Formula One racing, and glamorous young influencers are promoting vapes to vast global audiences.

Many countries, including the UK and New Zealand, have brought in regulations to prevent marketing vapes to young people. Social media platforms also have policies for this purpose.

A new study published in Health Promotion International has found Vuse, the world’s leading e-cigarette brand, is using a global social account to enter into paid partnerships, including a Formula One racing team, to promote vapes to massive audiences.

“Collaborations with music festivals and inﬂuencers show that the company is targeting young people and may be using social media’s global reach to bypass local bans,” says Dr Lucy Hardie, a population health researcher at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, who led the international study.

“Fast cars and beautiful women are a tried-and-true marketing strategy used by the tobacco industry,” Hardie says.

The study reviewed more than 400 Instagram posts associated with the internationally leading e-cigarette brand, Vuse, owned by British American Tobacco, between August 2023 to July 2024.

Hashtags like #VuseInsider were used to promote brand ambassadors and festival experiences.
Vuse has partnerships with social media influencers who produce stylised ‘Get Ready with Me’ videos linked to music festivals.

“You see a beautiful young influencer choosing fashion and makeup set to cool music, a type of clip popular with young women. It finishes with her popping a vape into her handbag as she heads out the door to attend a music festival,” Hardie says.

Vuse also sponsors Formula One race team McLaren, meaning the company’s branding and logos are used in posts that are promoted to its nearly 14 million followers.

Despite the platform’s policy, these are seldom disclosed as paid partnerships, the study finds.
The researchers warn that Vuse’s global Instagram marketing strategy allows it to bypass national advertising bans, such as those in New Zealand and in the UK, effectively exploiting legal gaps and weak platform enforcement.

“Social media is borderless and so is this type of marketing,” Hardie says. “We urgently need global agreements restricting e-cigarette marketing on social media, and platforms need to enforce breaches of platform policy.

“There needs to be greater scrutiny and accountability for brand partnerships that target vulnerable audiences with highly addictive substances.”

The long-term health effects of youth vaping are not yet known, but associations are emerging in research that link vapes to heart and lung conditions, as well as well-established issues related to nicotine addiction.

Another related study just published in Tobacco Control reveals how one New Zealand-based vape company uses environmental schemes to maintain a presence at youth-oriented music festivals in New Zealand, despite a strict sponsorship ban since 2020.

The study, also led by Hardie with colleagues from the University of Otago and the University of Sydney, revealed that leading vape company VAPO has established a recycling initiative, VapeCycle, that can sponsor major festivals like Rhythm and Vines attended by more than 20,000 young people.

The company’s branding still features at the festivals on recycling bins. Hardie says the studies point to a need for stronger regulations and enforcement to better protect young people.

MIL OSI

Finance – Comments from Finance and Mortgage Advisers Association of New Zealand (FAMNZ) managing director Peter White AM

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: Finance and Mortgage Advisers Association of New Zealand (FAMNZ)

Re: Pending RBNZ interest rate decision – “We believe there’s a clear need for an interest rate cut to help ease cost of living pressures for New Zealand borrowers and to boost home loan affordability.

With interest rates being uncertain at the moment, borrowers are considering whether to fix their mortgage rate or continue with a variable loan. Many are electing to split their loan between the two as part fixed and part variable, and this can be a good option right now as the expectation is that rates will continue to trend downwards into 2026.

There is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to the best mortgage product. Finance and mortgage advisers will base their advice on the specific needs of each individual customer. This varies from person to person depending on their circumstances.

What is in the best interests of one customer is different from that of another. For example those who are self-employed may not fit traditional bank lending criteria, so it’s important to discuss your situation with your adviser to obtain the loan that is most suitable.

While the major banks have many good products, borrowers should never think that they are the only source of lending. In fact very often a non-bank lender can meet a customer’s needs for either a better rate or a more flexible loan depending on the requirement. Some of these lenders are only available through a mortgage adviser.

A mortgage adviser will be able to provide the advice based on both the lending product and on your situation.”

MIL OSI

Rediscover Malaysia Through A Muslim-Friendly Lens: Islamic Tourism Month (ITM) 2025 Returns This August

MIL OSI

August 18, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – Islamic Tourism Month (ITM) 2025 returns for its fourth and most exciting edition yet, inviting Malaysians and global travelers to embark on a journey of rediscovery through the rich lens of Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH). Organised by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), ITM 2025 takes place from 18 August to 30 September, showcasing the beauty, diversity, and warmth of Malaysia as a leading Muslim-friendly destination.

This year’s campaign unfolds across eight (8) vibrant categories; Mosque Open Day, Accommodation, Travel Packages, Spa, Wellness and Healthcare, Food and Beverages, Events and Exhibitions, Shopping and Retail, and Tourism Products and Theme Parks, offering a nationwide celebration filled with inclusive-meaningful experiences tailored for locals and international visitors; families, solo travelers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts alike.

ITM 2025 unfolds with a promise of uncompromising discovery experience as Malaysia continues to shine in Muslim-friendly tourism, once again securing the top spot in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025, marking a decade of consecutive recognition as the world’s preferred destination. This achievement goes beyond rankings, it’s built on a foundation of accessible prayer facilities, inclusive travel experiences, widespread availability of halal food, and progressive tourism policies.

At the heart of ITM 2025 is its signature programme: Mosque Open Day. Throughout the month, selected mosques across the country will welcome the public for guided tours, exhibitions, and community-driven activities. Designed to promote understanding, inclusivity, and cultural exchange, this initiative offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the spiritual, historical, and social significance of mosques in Malaysia’s everyday life.

A CALL TO COLLABORATE: JOIN AS AN ITM 2025 PARTNER

ITC invites players across Malaysia’s tourism and hospitality sectors to join the movement as official ITM 2025 partners. From branding exposure and market engagement to economic opportunity, businesses will benefit from access to ITC’s promotional platforms, visibility among a high-value travel segment, and alignment with Malaysia’s broader Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) tourism objectives.

“The seeds planted in 2022 have blossomed into an event that reflects Malaysia’s warmth, diversity and hospitality,” said Nur Alyssa Coraline Yussin, Acting Director-General of ITC.

“We invite businesses to be part of this growing movement. By aligning with ITM 2025, partners gain access to a strong branding platform, a rapidly expanding Muslim tourist market and the chance to support Malaysia’s journey toward VM 2026”.

“As the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) ecosystem continues to expand, ITM offers a timely opportunity to showcase products and services that are inclusive, values-driven and culturally relevant, all while driving real business impact,” she added.

Since its inception, ITM has attracted over 300 participating organisations, contributing more than RM5 million in accumulated value to the national tourism landscape. Their collective efforts have helped elevate Malaysia’s MFTH offerings while solidifying its position as a sustainable, values-driven tourism hub.

GET CREATIVE: THE ITM 2025 TIKTOK CHALLENGE IS BACK

The much-loved ITM TikTok Challenge returns in 2025. Content creators are invited to explore ITM partner destinations and share their experiences using the hashtag #ExperienceITM2025. With just three simple steps; Visit, Video, and Viral, participants stand a chance to win exciting prizes worth more than RM50,000, including a holiday package to Xi’an, China, and an exclusive sailing getaway with Aroya Cruises.

MARCHING TOWARDS VISIT MALAYSIA 2026

With Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, ITM 2025 serves as a strategic prelude; a platform to galvanise industry readiness, attract global attention, and celebrate what makes Malaysia truly unique. By participating, businesses not only contribute to national tourism goals but also join a movement rooted in authentic experiences, inclusive values, and long-term impact.

REGIONAL MOMENTUM: MALAYSIA’S ASEAN CHAIRMANSHIP ELEVATES ITM 2025

This year’s ITM unfolds at a pivotal moment as Malaysia assumes the Chairmanship of ASEAN, offering a timely space to deepen regional tourism collaboration. With shared cultural values and growing interest in Muslim-friendly travel, ITM 2025 presents an exceptional opportunity for visitors from ASEAN member states to explore Malaysia’s offerings. From ITC perspective, this alignment is expected to drive stronger participation and outcomes than previous editions, further positioning Malaysia as a gateway for inclusive, experience-rich tourism across Southeast Asia.

WHO SHOULD JOIN?

ITM 2025 is open to all tourism and hospitality players, including:

Hotels & Resorts
Spa & Wellness Centres
Theme Parks
Shopping Malls
Retailers
Mosques
Event Organisers
Training Providers
Any tourism businesses offering Halal or Muslim-friendly products and services

Registration is now open. Interested businesses can sign up as official ITM 2025 partners via https://forms.gle/cXCC2dgfHvTpYoRr7.

Stay updated and inspired by following us on Instagram (@itm_itc) and Facebook (Islamic Tourism Month).

ABOUT ISLAMIC TOURISM MONTH 2025

Mosque Open Day

The much-beloved ITM trademark event where Malaysia’s most majestic mosques open their doors to visitors from near and far. Discover the beauty of Malaysian Islamic culture through guided tours, exhibitions and engaging community activities that promote understanding, culture appreciation and connection.

Accommodation

From cool highlands to sunny beaches and city escapes, enjoy exclusive discounts and packages created just for ITM 2025. Look out for deals catering to families, luxury seekers, youth travellers and more.

Travel Packages

Enjoy travel packages that take the stress out of planning and offer great value. Designed to suit those seeking for adventures and relaxation. Each package brings together convenience, comfort, and authentic discovery.

Spa, Wellness and Healthcare

In an era where self-care and mindful living continues to grow, ITM 2025 brings together a calming selection of spa, wellness and healthcare experiences. From traditional Malay treatments to modern therapies, each option is thoughtfully tailored, with gender-sensitive services available to ensure peace of mind.

Food and Beverages

Everyone needs to eat, but during ITM 2025, every meal becomes an opportunity to explore. Enjoy a variety of halal delicacies with special promotions that make dining out even more satisfying.

Events and Exhibitions

Level up, upskill, and link up at ITM-listed events and exhibitions throughout the month. Connect with like-minded individuals at key gatherings such as Global Halal Summit (GHaS) (16 to 18 September 2025) and the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) (17 to 20 September 2025). ITC signatures, the MFTG Training programmes are also open for registration to eligible industry players, alongside a variety of other activities including spa and wellness upskilling sessions and guided hiking events that combine learning, leisure, and lifestyle.

Shopping and Retail

Retail therapy comes with extra rewards throughout the month. From necessities to well-deserved indulgence, special promotions make it the perfect time to shop for anything and everything.

Tourism Products and Theme Parks

This is the perfect time to explore Malaysia’s many attractions, from museums and cultural landmarks to family-friendly favourites like Berjaya Times Square Theme Park and beyond.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/islamictourismcentre/
https://www.facebook.com/IslamicTourismMonth/
https://www.instagram.com/itm_itc/?hl=en
https://www.tiktok.com/@itc_my

Media-Outreach.com.

Gaza is the deadliest conflict for aid workers, says ChildFund

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: ChildFund New Zealand

The number of aid workers killed in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels-making this one of the deadliest crises in recent history for those dedicated to saving lives.

“Tomorrow is World Humanitarian Day, and ChildFund New Zealand will be honouring its local partners working on the ground in Gaza.

These are people bringing lifesaving water and food to children in the strip and trying to maintain some sort of normality by continuing education and making safe play areas for children,” says Josie Pagani CEO of ChildFund.

The occupied Palestinian territory is the deadliest setting for aid workers worldwide, with Palestinian staff accounting for 98% of aid worker fatalities: 509 out of 517 killings that took place between 2023-2025, according to the Aid Worker Security Database.

ChildFund has joined more than 100 organisations in a joint global letter calling on Israel to stop the “weaponisation of aid” into Gaza, as “starvation deepens”.

Most major international aid organisations including ChildFund and its partners, have been unable to deliver a single truck of lifesaving supplies since March because of new rules introduced by the Israeli government for the registration of aid charities.

Under the new guidelines, registration can be rejected if Israeli authorities deem that a group denies the democratic character of Israel or “promotes delegitimization campaigns” against the country.

“ChildFund and its partners is not at all involved in the politics of the region. Its focus is entirely on saving lives.”

Aid agencies have been unable to deliver enough aid which has left hospitals without basic supplies and children, people with disabilities, and older people dying from hunger and preventable illnesses.

“The UN says 600 trucks of supplies a day are needed in Gaza. To date only a few are getting through,” says Josie Pagani.

“It’s not just the horror of starvation and lack of water. Gaza’s education system has collapsed and is no longer operating, schools are used as emergency shelters and

are often bombed.

More than 50,000 children have been killed or injured, and 658,000 school-aged children are left without access to formal learning spaces.

Through its partners, ChildFund has supported over 500,000 individuals with emergency access to water, sanitation, food and shelter.

“Over the coming months, our partners in Gaza will bring water and food in and set up temporary schools to keep children learning the basics – reading and maths – so they have some hope of a future if they survive this horror.”

Honour the principle of World Humanitarian Day:

The New Zealand government must:

1. Press Israel government to end the weaponisation of aid, including through bureaucratic obstruction, such as the INGO registration procedures.

2. Call for the immediate enforcement of international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of aid workers.

3. Demand safe humanitarian access to deliver life-saving aid in Gaza.

MIL OSI

Aviation – New Aviation Drug & Alcohol Rules in Effect

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: Russo, Botica Butler Raudon Partners

Non-compliance could put aviation operators at serious financial risk

AUCKLAND – 18 August 2025 – With the Civil Aviation Act 2023 now in force, aviation operators across New Zealand are beginning the transition to formal Drug & Alcohol Management Plans (DAMPs), a new legal requirement that will form a core part of safety and risk management frameworks across the sector. The first submission deadline is just a month away, 30 September 2025 for Group 1 operators, followed by 30 June 2026 for Group 2.

The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) is encouraging operators to start planning now, saying that building a fit-for-purpose plan takes time, clarity, and the right expertise. The company offers end-to-end DAMP compliance services including policy review, certified training, random testing and secure reporting as required in the DAMP.

“Developing a compliant and operationally sound DAMP can’t be rushed,” says Glenn Dobson, CEO, TDDA. “For high-risk sectors like aviation, there are multiple moving parts from policies and testing protocols to staff training and reporting systems. Some operators can underestimate how much is involved.”

Under the Civil Aviation Act 2023, Drug & Alcohol Management Plans (DAMPs) are now a legal requirement under Civil Aviation Rule Part 99 and must be approved by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). These plans apply aviation businesses broadly: commercial airlines and maintenance organisations, adventure operators, agriculture aircraft operations, air traffic services, and more.

Each DAMP must set out how the operator will carry out random drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive workers, how non-negative results, refusal to test or unable to provide a sample will be handled, and what ongoing education and training will be provided for staff and supervisors. Plans must also clearly define roles and responsibilities across sites and teams, and include a system for regular reporting to the CAA. Full compliance is required in April 2027.

“We’re seeing a growing number of operators asking, ‘What does good look like?’. That’s the right question. Smart operators know that shortcuts, low-cost testing providers, and DIY kits won’t meet CAA’s expectations, and worse, they compromise safety,” adds Dobson.

“In our experience, the operators who act early are the ones whose operations continue smoothly. As the submission deadline approaches, providers get overwhelmed, delays happen, and work stoppages become likely,” says Dobson. “It also allows operators time to find the right fit – a compliance partner who truly understands the aviation sector.”

TDDA is New Zealand’s largest IANZ accredited, workplace drug and alcohol testing provider. It is currently offering free policy reviews to all DAMP- required operators as part of its commitment to industry safety.

TDDA delivers end-to-end support for aviation operators implementing DAMPs, policy design, employee training, compliant testing and CAA-aligned reporting. TDDA’s services meet the requirements of Civil Aviation Rule Part 99, covering random testing, response protocols, secure reporting and supervisor education.

TDDA’s reporting platform, IMPERANS, provides operators with real-time oversight, site-level visibility, and tools to manage DAMP quarterly reporting with ease. Supported by a fleet of mobile clinics that meet businesses where they operate, TDDA services both single-site and multi-site operations, including remote and mobile environments. As a specialist in DAMP compliance, TDDA ensures programs are practical, enforceable, and future-ready through to 2027 and beyond.

About The Drug Detection Agency

The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) is a leader in workplace substance testing with more than 300 staff, 90 mobile health clinics, 65 locations throughout Australasia, and processing more than 250,000 tests annually. TDDA was established in 2005 to provide New Zealand and Australian businesses with end-to-end workplace substance testing, education and policy services. TDDA holds ISO17025 accreditation for workplace substance testing in both AU and NZ. Refer to the IANZ and NATA websites for TDDA’s full accreditation details. Learn more about TDDA at https://tdda.com/.

MIL OSI

PROPEL with Singlife Champions Excellence in Financial Advisory as Sponsor of 10th Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards 2025

MIL OSI

August 18, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Sponsorship in line with its vision of empowering financial advisory firms and progressing the industry

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – PROPEL with Singlife, the one-stop shared services hub for financial advisory firms, proudly announces its sponsorship of the 10th Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards 2025 (“the Awards”). Organised by Asia Insurance Review and Asia Advisers Network, the Awards celebrate excellence, leadership, and innovation among life insurance agents and financial adviser representatives across Asia Pacific.

In addition, the first-in-market shared services centre based in Singapore is also the Title Sponsor of the “Insurance Agency Leader of the Year” category, which recognises agency leaders in 2024 who have demonstrated exceptional group production and recruitment, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to professionalism and service to the industry.

A total of 50 finalists have been revealed for this year’s Awards, representing 13 markets and 47 companies across the region. The finalists were shortlisted by an expert panel of 15 judges, comprising CEOs, association heads, and industry experts, including Mr Steven Ong, CEO of PROPEL.

Sheela Suppiah, CEO of Asia Insurance Review and Asia Advisers Network, said: “This year, as we celebrate the 10-year milestone of these awards, we are truly excited to have PROPEL with Singlife on board as a partner. The synergy between their commitment to promote empowerment of the financial advisory industry go hand in hand perfectly with what the awards stand for. We look forward to working with PROPEL towards the common goal of pushing excellence for agents.”

Through supporting the Awards, PROPEL champions values that align closely with its mission to empower financial advisory firms to thrive, and reaffirms its commitment to promoting the transformation of the financial advisory industry.

Steven Ong, CEO of PROPEL with Singlife, said: “PROPEL offers essential tools for FA firms to simplify and smoothen their middle-to-back-office operations so that they can focus on what truly matters – delivering exceptional service to their clients and scaling their businesses. We are proud to put our name behind the Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards, celebrating the industry’s best, who raise the bar and inspire others to reach new heights of excellence.”

PROPEL’s integrated platform offers financial advisory firms a one-stop solution for their business needs, including financial needs analysis, new business registration, commission management, and seamless middle-to-back-office support. By streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency, PROPEL enables firms – from start-ups to those already well-established – to scale their businesses and meet the evolving needs of their clients.

Additionally, PROPEL supports advisers aspiring to start their own firms through its consultancy services, providing them with industry knowledge to navigate the regulatory and compliance framework, allowing them to come out of the tied agency model with confidence to start their own firms and offer their customers a wider range of financial solutions.

Since its official launch in January this year, PROPEL has onboarded around 1,000 financial adviser representatives from some 10 firms, as it plays its part in promoting more autonomy for advisers, and choice for consumers. Its goal is to surpass 3,000 advisers and 20 FA firms by 2029.

The financial advisory industry is undergoing rapid transformation, with consumers demanding more personalised, independent advice. PROPEL is at the forefront of this shift, providing firms with the tools and support they need to adapt, grow, and thrive in a dynamic market.

The 10th Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisors Awards ceremony will take place on 19 August 2025 at ParkRoyal Collection Marina Bay in Singapore.

To learn more about how PROPEL helps FA firms scale their businesses effectively, visit singlife.com/en/propel.

https://singlife.com/en/propel
https://www.linkedin.com/company/propel-with-singlife

Hashtag: #PROPELwithSinglife

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

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

1...162163164...1,096 Page 163 of 1,096