Aviation – New Aviation Drug & Alcohol Rules in Effect

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.

Name release, fatal crash Matamata

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Police can now release the name of the person who died following a crash on the corner of Pohlen Road and Waharoa Road East in Matamata on 16 August.

She was 79-year-old Martje Gezina Eastment, of Putaruru.

Investigations to determine the cause of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

VinFast Philippines honored at the 2025 Legacy Awards for Business

MIL OSI

August 18, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – VinFast Philippines has been honored at the 2025 Legacy Awards for Business in the category of “Excellence in Strategic Mobility Innovation.” The award recognizes the company’s pioneering efforts in promoting sustainable transportation, inclusive economic growth, and positive community impact across the Philippines.

Mr. Abner Berdos, Deputy CEO of Sales and Dealer Network Development at VinFast Philippines (right) represented the company to receive the 2025 Legacy Awards for Business

The Legacy Awards, first launched in 2020, are a prestigious recognition platform that celebrates businesses, brands, and individuals who have successfully integrated sustainable development thinking into their core strategies. The program also highlights impactful business social responsibility (BSR) initiatives that address environmental, economic, and human development issues.

With the guiding message, “Because your business is your legacy,” the awards not only serve as a platform to honor achievements but also as a call to action for the business community to invest more meaningfully in projects that benefit society and future generations.

VinFast Philippines’ recognition at this year’s awards reflects the brand’s long-term commitment to the Philippines. The company has not only introduced a line-up of smart, high-quality, eco-friendly electric vehicles but also actively contributed to community development through a series of meaningful social responsibility initiatives.

Mr. Abner Berdos, Deputy CEO of Sales and Dealer Network Development at VinFast Philippines, shared: “We are truly honored to receive the Legacy Award for Business – a meaningful recognition of the journey VinFast is committed to in the Philippines. From day one, our mission has extended beyond delivering high-quality EVs; we strive to be a catalyst for positive change – where green mobility, sustainable growth, and social responsibility go hand in hand. Through breakthrough programs such as affordable financing schemes and partnerships to expand nationwide charging infrastructure, we aim to make EV ownership accessible to all Filipinos, regardless of location or income level. This award affirms our belief that a business can thrive while keeping people and the planet at the heart of every strategic decision, contributing to a cleaner environment, economic progress, and a more sustainable future for generations to come.“

The Chairman of the organizing committee, Director Wilfredo Jordan Lemque Jr., noted: “VinFast Philippines has made a significant mark on the journey toward sustainable mobility in our country. More than just an EV company, VinFast is building a people-centered smart transportation ecosystem with strong commitments to the environment, education, and community development. This perfectly embodies the spirit of the Legacy Awards: celebrating businesses that leave behind more than just profit – they leave behind purpose. We believe VinFast will continue to serve as a model for a new generation of enterprises – innovative, responsible, and driven by action.”

Nearly a year since entering the Philippine market, VinFast continues to scale up its operations with a portfolio of smart electric vehicles, flexible sales programs, and a growing aftersales support network. Across Southeast Asia, VinFast is advancing a comprehensive “For a Green Future” strategy, with a strong focus on expanding its charging station network, service hubs, and customer support platforms. This integrated model, proven successful in Vietnam, is now being replicated in key markets such as the Philippines.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

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

Philosophy Studio Partners with OWAY to Introduce Customised Detox Rituals and Scalp Treatments in Singapore

MIL OSI

August 18, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – Philosophy Studio, a leading hair studio in Singapore dedicated to holistic and sustainable beauty, proudly announces its partnership with Italian biodynamic beauty brand OWAY. This collaboration introduces a new era in personalised scalp and hair wellness through the launch of OWAY’s signature Detox Ritual and other targeted treatment rituals.

OWAY Scalp Treatment and Hair Wellness

Blending ancient botanical wisdom with modern trichology, OWAY’s treatments are now exclusively available at Philosophy Studio – providing scalp treatment clients with natural, plant-based effective solutions free from harmful chemicals.

Discover the OWAY Detox Ritual
At the heart of this launch is the Detox Ritual – a transformative treatment that uses OWAY’s 100% natural Herbs & Clay Peeling Cleanser. This clay-based detoxifying formula gently exfoliates the scalp, removing buildup, pollutants, and toxins while restoring balance and clarity to the scalp.

Designed for all hair types, the Detox Ritual serves as the foundation of scalp wellness, preparing the skin to better absorb nutrients from follow-up treatments. It’s an essential reset for those experiencing imbalances caused by stress, styling products, or urban living. Clients are recommended to undergo the Ritual after every few OWAY hair baths for optimum scalp vitality.

Tailored Healing Through Personalised Treatment Rituals
Philosophy Studio also introduces OWAY’s Personalised Treatment Rituals, a collection of targeted therapies designed to address common scalp concerns:

Purifying Ritual – Combats dandruff and flaking for dry or oily scalps using biodynamic thyme and rice wax.
Rebalancing Ritual – Regulates sebum production and balances oily scalps with Amazonian white clay and biodynamic sage.
Soothing Ritual – Calms redness, sensitivity, and irritation with biodynamic helichrysum and zanthoxylum.
Hair Loss Ritual – Strengthens hair roots and stimulates growth with organic horse chestnut, mint, and plant stem cells.

Each Personalised Treatment Ritual starts with a scalp analysis using the Tricho-Analyzer to assess scalp health and tailor the treatment plan accordingly.

Scalp Signature Ritual: A Fusion of Detox and Personalisation
The Scalp Signature Ritual merges the Detox Ritual with one of the Personalised Treatment Rituals, offering the best of both worlds in a single session. By first purifying the scalp and then targeting specific concerns, this comprehensive treatment ensures deeper absorption and longer-lasting results.

Whether you’re struggling with oiliness, flakes, sensitivity, or thinning hair, the Scalp Signature Ritual delivers a complete healing experience that enhances scalp function and overall hair quality.

Strengthen and Repair with OWAY’s Rebuilding Treatment
For clients with damaged, brittle, or chemically processed hair – including those undergoing hair rebonding treatments in Singapore, the Rebuilding Treatment provides intensive hair fibre reconstruction. Using a patented blend of 18 biomimetic amino acids, hyaluronic acid, and Amazonian butters, this treatment replenishes moisture, rebuilds the keratin structure, and improves elasticity.

The Rebuilding Treatment is particularly beneficial after chemical services or prolonged exposure to heat and environmental aggressors. It restores shine, strength, and softness from root to tip, a must-try for anyone looking to reverse visible signs of damage.

As a boutique hair studio in Singapore, Philosophy Studio aligns with OWAY’s ethos of biodynamic farming, fair-trade sourcing, and clean beauty. All OWAY treatments are formulated without SLS/SLES, parabens, synthetic fragrances, or petroleum derivatives, making them suitable even for sensitive scalps.

Clients can enjoy an immersive salon experience that combines scalp therapy with sensorial aromatherapy, personalised consultation, and evidence-based scalp and hair analysis.

The full range of OWAY treatments, Personalised Treatment Rituals, Scalp Signature Ritual, and Rebuilding Treatment, are now available exclusively at Philosophy Studio.

https://www.philosophystudio.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/PhilosophyStudiodotSG/
https://www.instagram.com/philosophystudiosg/

Hashtag: #PhilosophyStudio

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

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

Appeal for information following aggravated robbery, Palmerston North

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant Shelley Ross:

Manawatu Area Police are appealing for information and witnesses following an aggravated robbery of a man on Thursday 14 August.

At around 9:40pm a man was assaulted and robbed, by three male suspects, near the corner of Linton Street and Church Street.

The victim sustained moderate injuries and is understandably very shaken by this incident.

Police would like to speak with anyone who may have witnessed this attack, particularly the two women who assisted the victim.

We are also asking for anyone that may have information on the attack to please come forward.

If you have any information that could assist Police, please contact us via 105, either over the phone or online. Please reference file number 250815/1380.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Man arrested following house fire, Palmerston North

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant Shelley Ross:

Police have charged a man with two counts of attempted arson and unlawfully possessing an offensive weapon following a house fire on Main Street yesterday afternoon (17 August).

Police were called to the fire, which affected three residential properties, at around 4pm.

The 26-year-old was taken into custody at the scene by the Police – and received medical treatment at the police station for smoke inhalation.

He is due to appear in Palmerston North District Court today.

Thankfully, no one else was injured

A scene guard was in place overnight while examinations took place, these have now been completely.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Snow, ice may cause disruption on South Island roads

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

A cold snap moving up the South Island today and tomorrow has prompted a warning to motorists to plan ahead and prepare for disruption on inland state highways and at alpine passes.

Snow has been falling this morning in Southland, and MetService has issued road snowfall warnings from today for the South Island’s alpine passes, Milford Road (State Highway 94) and the Crown Range Road.

New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) already has area warnings in place due to snow and ice on State Highway 85 from Ranfurly to Becks, on SH94 from Mossburn to Te Anau, and Te Anau to Milford.

Forecasts supplied to NZTA suggest about 10cm of snow could fall at Porters Pass (State Highway 73) above 600m tomorrow morning. Snowfalls of this quantity could require closure of parts of SH73.

Snow is also expected elsewhere in inland Canterbury tomorrow morning, above 300m. Up to 5cm is expected in many places, especially State Highway 7 west of the Hanmer Springs turnoff, and SH73 east of Craigieburn Cutting.

The forecasts provided to NZTA also show that for the Mackenzie Basin, up to 5cm of snow is expected today in the Tekapo, Burkes Pass and Aoraki-Mount Cook areas, affecting State Highways 8 and 80, with further snow showers tomorrow.

Very frosty conditions are expected in the days to follow, which is likely to mean icy roads.

“Our crews will be out and ready to clear snow and lay grit or a de-icing agent on icy roads,” says NZTA system manager Mark Pinner.

“If conditions are considered bad enough, temporary speed reductions or road closures are also possible.”

“We want to remind motorists to drive with care and to the conditions – including being visible, reducing speed, adjusting the travelling distance behind other motorists and avoiding sudden braking or turning movements.”

Plan ahead by visiting our Journey Planner site, and helpful tips about winter driving can be found on our website.

MIL OSI

From Differentiation to Emotional Connection: 180 Brand Talk 6.0 Returns to Help Brands Win Hearts!

MIL OSI

August 18, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Many SMEs start by asking how to make customers choose their brand.
But the real question is—if customers don’t like a brand, there’s no reason for them to choose it.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – To break through this challenge, it all comes down to one thing: building an emotional connection that wins hearts.

Brand positioning means that when customers encounter a problem, they immediately think of that brand. This can’t be achieved simply by spending on ads—it takes the right approach to make that brand truly resonate.

Addressing the pain points and blind spots of SMEs, Chan Fong has hosted five editions of 180 Brand Talk over the past three years, helping hundreds of businesses uncover their unique points of differentiation and build a brand positioning that is distinctly their own.

This session’s speaker, Chan Fong, is not only a well-known radio DJ but also a veteran advertising professional with 28 years of experience who, together with the team at 180 Degrees Brandcom, has spent more than two decades rebranding renowned brands such as OGAWA, CUCKOO, EcoWorld, Knife, BRAND’s and more, as well as guiding countless SMEs from the ground up to establish a solid foundation and define their positioning.

“Managing a brand isn’t about creating demand, but recognising it,” Chan Fong emphasises. A brand that truly wins hearts always has a clear image, a distinctive personality, and well-defined differentiation.

From long-term observations, Chan Fong found that about 70–80% of SMEs in Malaysia are run by the Chinese community, yet many of these brands lack an emotional connection with consumers. Even with strong and distinctive points of differentiation, they often struggle to communicate them effectively due to the wrong approach. To address this, Chan Fong launched the 180 Brand Talk programme, drawing on practical experience to guide SMEs in defining their brand positioning and building emotional connections.

What Makes This Programme Stand Out

In the 180 Brand Talk programme, Chan Fong avoids abstract theories and marketing jargon. Drawing on 28 years of hands-on experience, the programme shares numerous local case studies that reflect the real challenges faced by Malaysian SMEs, enabling entrepreneurs to relate easily and apply the lessons learned. The programme also features dedicated discussion sessions with the 180 team, where participants can present their brand’s pain points and receive practical, actionable advice.

Whether they are new entrepreneurs taking their first steps or seasoned brand owners stuck at a standstill, this programme helps businesses find their next breakthrough.

From Differentiation to Emotional Connection: 180 Brand Talk 6.0 Programme Details:

Date: 9–10 September 2025 (Tuesday–Wednesday)
Time: 10:00am–6:00pm
Venue: Courtyard by Marriott KL South

Remark: This programme is recognised under Malaysia’s Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF). Eligible companies may apply for HRDF reimbursement claims.

Special Offer:

Register now and use promo code TN200 to enjoy an RM200 discount per ticket! Limited seats are available—first come, first served.
Registration link: https://givingtreeglobal.com/upcoming-event/chan-fong-brand-talk/

https://www.180.com.my/
https://www.facebook.com/180DegreesBrandcom
https://www.instagram.com/180degreesbrandcom/

Hashtag: #180BrandingStrategicGuideline #branding #brandtalk6.0 #BrandStrategy #BuildYourBrand #BrandVision #BrandPositioning #BrandDifferentiation

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

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

Double trouble: Traffic stops uncover firearms

LiveNews Publisher

August 18, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

A speeding vehicle caught more than a ticket in New Lynn early this morning with Police discovering firearms and drugs.

Around 3am a patrolling unit noticed a vehicle travelling at excessive speed along Titirangi Road.

Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Kelly Farrant, says officers signalled for the vehicle to stop, it did and then the driver became aggressive toward Police staff.

“Two passengers in the vehicle were also uncooperative and refused to provide their details,” says Inspector Farrant.

Further enquiries revealed one of the passengers had an active warrant for arrest and was taken into custody.

“As the male was being removed from the vehicle, officers observed a small handgun and ammunition in the footwell,” says Inspector Farrant. “Staff acted swiftly to secure the firearm without further incident.”

It was the second firearm located overnight, as a few hours earlier in Manurewa, Police located a sawn-off shotgun in the vehicle of a patched gang member during a routine traffic stop.

“These incidents highlight the importance of our frontline staff’s safety and vigilance,” says Inspector Farrant. “It’s reassuring to have removed these weapons from our communities”.

A 27-year-old man will appear in the Waitākere District Court charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm, possessing methamphetamine, possessing cannabis, and breaching bail.

A 54-year-old man is appearing in the Manukau District Court charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition and possessing cannabis.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

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