NZ-AU: Parker Blackwood Advisers Highlights Emerging Growth in Australian Economy

March 5, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, March 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Parker Blackwood Advisers, a leading financial services provider has released its analysis of Australia’s economic trajectory following the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) latest National Accounts data, which revealed a 0.6% quarterly rise in GDP and 1.3% annual growth for 2024. The report underscores cautious optimism as the economy shows early signs of recovery while navigating domestic and global headwinds.

Nathan Jones, Chief Investment Officer at Parker Blackwood Advisers, remarked: “The data confirms that Australia’s economy is gradually emerging from its sluggish phase. While the 0.6% quarterly expansion is encouraging, this recovery remains fragile. Government expenditure and migration have been pivotal in offsetting weaker private sector momentum, but sustainable growth will require targeted policies to unlock productivity and private investment.”

Tristan Hindmarsh, Account Executive at Parker Blackwood Advisers added that while easing monetary policy, real wage gains, and impending tax cuts provide tailwinds, structural challenges persist. “The RBA’s rate-cutting cycle and improved disposable incomes should stimulate demand in 2025. However, reliance on public spending at multi-decade highs risks crowding out private enterprise. Without reforms to address labor shortages, housing affordability, and global trade volatility, the path to robust growth will remain uneven.”

The report by Parker Blackwood Advisers highlights external risks, including escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and China’s economic slowdown, which could dampen export demand. Domestically, Parker Blackwood’s analysis stresses the need for infrastructure-focused fiscal strategies ahead of the federal election.

Tom White, Account Executive at Parker Blackwood Advisers, noted: “Government investment in productivity-enhancing infrastructure—such as renewable energy projects and digital modernization—can catalyse private sector activity. However, short-term stimulus pledges must align with long-term economic vision to avoid perpetuating stagnant per-capita growth.”

Parker Blackwood Advisers projects moderate GDP growth of 1.6% in 2025, accelerating to 2.3% in 2026 and 2.7% in 2027, contingent on easing inflation, interest rate cuts, and policy clarity. Michael Smith, Account Executive at Parker Blackwood Advisers added: “Households and businesses are poised to benefit from improving conditions, but vigilance is key. Global trade uncertainties and China’s stimulus decisions will significantly influence Australia’s trajectory.”

As Australia navigates this pivotal economic juncture, Parker Blackwood Advisers reaffirms its commitment to guiding clients through evolving challenges and opportunities. By combining forward-looking analysis with strategic wealth management solutions, the firm aims to empower stakeholders to build resilience and capitalize on the nation’s emerging growth drivers. With a focus on innovation and adaptability, Parker Blackwood remains at the forefront of shaping financial strategies tailored to Australia’s dynamic economic landscape.

About Parker Blackwood Advisers
Founded in 2013, Parker Blackwood Advisers is a premier financial services provider based in Perth, Australia. With a focus on personalised investment strategies, the firm offers a broad range of wealth management solutions, including asset allocation, investment management, and financial planning. Managing over $4.7 billion in assets, Parker Blackwood Advisers is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals through tailored, expert guidance.

Disclaimer
Parker Blackwood Advisers is a trading name of PBA Corporation Pty Ltd (ABN: 98 162 183 244), holder of AFSL 434-071. Investing carries risks, including potential loss of capital. Information provided is general and not financial advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Mr. Paul Allen
Head of Marketing
paul.allen@pb-investment.com
08 6275 0960
Exchange Tower,
Level 17/2 The Esplanade
Perth WA, 6000

Source: Parker Blackwood Advisers

– Published by The MIL Network

PAObank Receives Insurance Agency Licence, Announces the Strategic Partnership with China Ping An Insurance (Hong Kong) and FWD Hong Kong Respectively

MIL OSI

March 5, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Offering Both General and Life Insurance to Meet Customers’ Various Protection Needs

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2025 – PAO Bank Limited (“PAObank”) announced that it has been granted an Insurance Agency Licence from the Insurance Authority (“IA”) and has signed strategic partnership agreements with China Ping An Insurance (Hong Kong) Company Limited (“PAHK”) and FWD Hong Kong (“FWD”) respectively. PAObank is launching both general and life insurance services, offering retail banking customers a seamless bancassurance experience.

PAObank has entered into a bancassurance partnership with PAHK, leveraging on their extensive general insurance expertise as a solid support for this collaboration, to provide a wide array of diverse products, including motor insurance, travel insurance, and home insurance solutions to meet customers’ various protection needs.

Meanwhile, PAObank has further deepened its partnership with insurer, FWD, following the successful launch of Hong Kong’s first bank-insurance “Commercial Data Interchange” (CDI) collaboration, which promotes cross-sector data interchange and leads breakthroughs in the data integration and applications for Hong Kong’s financial sectors. PAObank and FWD are now expanding their collaboration to retail banking, offering life insurance products to customers.

By seamlessly integrating financial technology and Application Programming Interface (API) technology, PAObank connects with insurance companies’ platforms to offer comprehensive online one-stop insurance services. Customers can now easily purchase insurance at their fingertips, enjoying a more convenient, seamless, and secure insurance experience. With just a few simple steps, they can ensure reliable protection for themselves and their families.

Mr. Ambrose Wong, Chief Executive of PAObank, said, “Obtaining the Insurance Agency Licence is a pivotal milestone for the development of our retail banking services. We are delighted to have reached a strategic partnership agreement with PAHK and FWD respectively to further expand our financial services offerings for our individual customers. In addition to time deposits and insurance services, we are accelerating efforts to launch more insurance products. With a focus on serving SMEs and individual customers, we aim to provide a diverse array of financial services, creating greater value for our clients.”

Mr. Kelvin Cheung, Managing Director of PAHK stated, “The online insurance business of PAHK provides customers with 24/7 online instant quotes and insurance application services, significantly improving customer experience and striving to achieve the concept of ‘humanised financial services’. We are very pleased to collaborate with PAObank to offer excellent protection plans and services to our customers.”

Mr. Ken Lau, Managing Director of Greater China and Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer, FWD said, “We are delighted to further strengthen our strategic partnership with PAObank. FWD is actively expanding our multi-channel distribution strategy to serve more customers through our bancassurance partnership network. Through this collaboration, FWD will provide more customers with life insurance products, working hand in hand with PAObank to bring greater benefits to both parties.”

PAObank will continue to innovate and leverage financial technology to provide SMEs and individual customers with comprehensive, convenient, and personalised financial solutions. At the same time, PAObank will continue to establish a sustainable financial ecosystem and facilitate the development of digital banking.

Please refer to the PAObank website at www.paob.com.hk for details. For any enquiries, please contact us through Live Chat in the PAObank APP or call the customer services hotline at 3762 9900.

Hashtag: #PAObank #PAHK #FWD #Bancassurance

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

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

Workato and Tata Consultancy Services Form Strategic Alliance to Deliver Next-Gen Innovation and Help Companies Modernise Legacy Systems

MIL OSI

March 5, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

The alliance will advise companies on how to streamline operational processes, accelerate digital transformation and drive faster innovation.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2025 – Workato®, the leading enterprise orchestration platform, announced a new strategic alliance with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT services, consulting and business solutions. The TCS and Workato alliance is a commitment to help businesses streamline operations, drive productivity and embrace innovation. With this collaboration, Workato and TCS will strengthen their joint enterprise orchestration capabilities to enable digital transformation and technology modernisation for their customers.

Named a Leader in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for iPaaS, Workato enables enterprises to transform their business operations by orchestrating business processes end-to-end and operationalizing AI across the entire organization. The company’s low-code/no-code platform is designed to make it easy for Information Technology and business teams to integrate their applications, data, and experiences while maintaining security and governance. Workato’s AI-powered agentic capabilities allow customers to rapidly build and manage powerful AI agents that take action and orchestrate workflows.

“Today, customers need to rationalize and simplify their technology spread. They are investing in platforms that can help them automate, improve productivity, and deliver efficiencies across the enterprise landscape. Workato, with its integration, automation and AI capabilities, helps simplify, automate, and deliver significant cost savings to customers. TCS, with its deep domain and technology expertise, has been working with Workato to help customers define their integration roadmap, simplify technology landscape, and deliver more with less through automation and AI,” said Punit Agarwal, Singapore Country Head, Tata Consultancy Services.

Over 200 TCS practitioners have been trained on the Workato platform and have completed Workato’s implementation certifications. By leveraging the power of Workato’s platform, TCS will help its extensive network of clients deliver custom solutions to address complex business problems and accelerate digitalisation. This includes integrating data across enterprise systems, modernising legacy applications, automating repetitive and manual tasks, and embracing AI-powered enterprise orchestration.

“The enterprise IT landscape is changing rapidly as a result of evolving business demands, cloud adoption, and digital transformation initiatives. Enterprises are facing the convergence of integration and automation solutions which seamlessly connect enterprise applications, implement business process orchestration, and enable human tasks and workflows to unlock the true potential of siloed enterprise data for intelligent, data-driven business growth,” said Kiran Deshpande, Global Enterprise Integration Practice Head, Tata Consultancy Services.

“Workato’s AI-powered, hyper-automation platform along with TCS’ domain, contextual, and technology knowledge, enables customers in their digital transformation initiatives for accelerated business growth,” he added.

“We are thrilled to embark on this strategic alliance with TCS, a global leader in business solutions consulting and digital transformation. By joining forces with TCS and leveraging their extensive network and industry expertise, we’re well-positioned to help more enterprises in Asia Pacific pursue AI-powered efficiency, productivity and innovation across their business,” said June Lee, General Manager, Workato Asia Pacific.

“Together, our partnership will provide an unmatched combination of strategic consultancy based on deep industry knowledge and AI-driven workflow orchestration capabilities, to deliver unparalleled value to our joint customers.”

https://www.workato.com/the-connector/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/workato
https://twitter.com/workato
https://systematic.workato.com/

Hashtag: #Workato

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

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

Hamilton community effort leads to safer streets

LiveNews Publisher

March 5, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Attributable to Inspector Andrea McBeth, Hamilton City Area Commander

Council CCTV operators have assisted Hamilton Police in making an arrest after providing information of a person carrying a weapon in the CBD.

In the early hours of Tuesday 4 March, Police were alerted by Council CCTV camera operators, after a man was seen holding a weapon before getting into a vehicle.

As officers made their way to the scene, they were further advised of critical information from camera operators including descriptions and images of the man and the vehicle.

Thanks to this information, Police located the man a short time later at an address in Nawton.

The man was subsequently arrested, with an offensive weapon located alongside a metal pole.

CCTV operators are an invaluable service to both us and the community. They detect a wide range of incidents from medical events and lost property, to identifying and notifying Police of suspicious and unlawful behaviour.

The 38-year-old man is due to appear in Hamilton District Court on Friday 7 March, charged with possessing an offensive weapon and possessing methamphetamine.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Football legend Gianfranco Zola to headline The Famous CFC Bangkok, as Ascott presents Chelsea’s global fan experience for the second time this season

MIL OSI

March 5, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

LONDON, ENGLAND/ BANGKOK, THAILAND/ SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2025 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the Official Global Hotels Partner of Chelsea Football Club, is excited to bring The Famous CFC to Bangkok, Thailand, as the event’s presenting partner. Building on the remarkable success of the Singapore edition, Ascott is proud to bring the immersive global fan experience series to another of Chelsea’s passionate Southeast Asian fanbases. Scheduled for 25 and 26 April 2025, the two-day celebration will be held at Ascott properties across Bangkok, including Ascott Embassy Sathorn Bangkok and Somerset Rama 9 Bangkok, promising an extraordinary experience for Chelsea supporters and members of Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), Ascott’s loyalty programme.

The Famous CFC in Bangkok is the 2nd edition of the global fan engagement event that Ascott will be hosting as Official Global Hotels Partner of Chelsea Football Club.

The upcoming Famous CFC in Bangkok will feature Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola, a beloved figure among fans for his exceptional contributions to the club from 1996 to 2003. A two-time Chelsea Player of the Year, Zola’s impact on the Blues was immeasurable, with supporters voting him the club’s greatest-ever player in 2003. Throughout his illustrious career, Zola helped Chelsea secure numerous major titles, including the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, UEFA Super Cup, two FA Cups, the League Cup and the Community Shield. Zola’s visit to Bangkok is eagerly awaited, with the event marking Chelsea’s much anticipated return to the city for the first time since 2017.

Zola’s star power was on full display during the Singapore edition of The Famous CFC on 30 November and 1 December 2024, where he received an overwhelmingly warm reception from fans, many of whom travelled from across the region to meet him. While Zola’s footballing legacy was widely celebrated, it was his approachable nature that truly captured the hearts of supporters. His first visit to Singapore deepened the admiration and respect fans already had for him, and now Zola is set to bring that same warmth and rapport to Bangkok’s passionate Chelsea fanbase this April.

Ascott Embassy Sathorn Bangkok

The Famous CFC is an international fan engagement programme designed by Chelsea to strengthen its bond with supporters worldwide while fostering collaboration with international partners and brands. Launched in 2023, the event has already made its mark in cities like Mumbai, Los Angeles, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, bringing together fans and creating unforgettable moments that showcase the togetherness and spirit of Chelsea. The Bangkok edition will feature an exciting lineup of activities, including a watch party for Chelsea’s match against Everton on 26 April and an exclusive meet-and-greet with Zola.

Somerset Rama 9 Bangkok

Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “Following the resounding success of The Famous CFC in Singapore, we are thrilled to bring this extraordinary fan engagement experience to Bangkok, Thailand. Headlined once again by Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola, this latest edition of The Famous CFC reaffirms Ascott’s commitment to engaging Chelsea’s global fanbase and elevating our hospitality experiences to deliver heartfelt moments that extend far beyond the pitch. Much more than just a gathering, Ascott Star Rewards members will have the exclusive chance to meet Gianfranco Zola in person, hear firsthand stories from his illustrious career, and immerse themselves in the legacy of Chelsea Football Club with behind-the-scenes insights. The Famous CFC Bangkok will offer an exclusive layer of engagement, including priority access, VIP hospitality experiences and curated stays at Ascott properties in Bangkok, ensuring that every moment – from check-in to the final whistle – is infused with meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that go beyond booking a stay.”

“Since becoming Chelsea’s Official Global Hotels Partner, Ascott has been bringing global fans closer to the club they love while redefining hospitality with our exclusive Ascott Star Rewards offerings, such as match-and-stay experience packages that include football clinics with Chelsea soccer school coaches at Cobham Training Ground and VIP access to Ascott’s private hospitality suite at Stamford Bridge. Our loyalty members are also eagerly anticipating the rebranding of the two stadium hotels – currently operating as Stamford Bridge Hotel London – to Ascott’s lyf brand by the second half of this year. lyf’s experience-led social-living concept aligns seamlessly with Chelsea’s spirit and the vibrant atmosphere of Stamford Bridge, promising an exciting new chapter for both our guests and Chelsea fans,” added Tan.

Casper Stylsvig, Chelsea’s Chief Revenue Officer, said: “We are excited to return to Bangkok as part of The Famous CFC global series, offering a unique opportunity for the club to engage with its passionate fanbase around the world. This marks our first visit to Bangkok since 2017, and we are delighted to partner once again with Ascott to bring our global vision to life in innovative ways following the successful trip to Singapore last November. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience for our supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members alike.”

Gianfranco Zola said: “I’m thrilled to be part of The Famous CFC again this year and to return to Southeast Asia for the second time with the programme. After my memorable visit to Singapore, I’m looking forward to spending more time with our incredible fanbase in the region and discovering the beauty of Bangkok. It’s always special to connect with fans in such spirited communities.”

Win An Evening with Gianfranco Zola in Bangkok, exclusively for Ascott Star Rewards members

In anticipation of The Famous CFC in Bangkok, Ascott is pleased to launch an exclusive campaign for ASR members. Participants who book and stay with Ascott will have the chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime fan experience with Zola, including passes to the Ascott x Chelsea pre-match party, featuring a special appearance by Zola. For more information on the campaign and prizes, visit https://www.discoverasr.com/en/ascott-chelseafc.

The Famous CFC Experience Packages

Ascott has also launched two exclusive experience packages for The Famous CFC in Bangkok, available only to ASR members. Both packages come with ASR points, which can be redeemed for stays at Ascott Embassy Sathorn Bangkok, Somerset Rama 9 Bangkok or any other participating ASR property. The ‘Intimate Fan Experience with Gianfranco Zola’ for two includes access to the Ascott x Chelsea pre-match party, featuring a special appearance by Zola, and a limited edition Ascott x Chelsea co-branded merchandise pack. The higher-tier ‘Ultimate Weekend with Gianfranco Zola’ for two includes all the same benefits, plus an exclusive VIP meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with Zola.

For ticketing details and the latest updates on The Famous CFC in Bangkok, please visit https://www.discoverasr.com/en/ascott-chelseafc.

About Ascott Star Rewards (ASR)

Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) offers members a range of exclusive privileges designed to elevate every aspect of their travel experience. From priority welcome services and access to airport lounges, to enhanced stay benefits such as car rental privileges, bonus ASR points, airline miles and travel vouchers, ASR ensures a seamless, start-to-finish experience. Beyond exceptional stays, ASR members also enjoy access to Ascott Privilege Signatures, which unlocks invitations to prestigious global events, including Premier League football matches, renowned tennis tournaments, and elite gastronomy and lifestyle experiences. To become an ASR member, sign up today at https://www.discoverasr.com/en/sign-up.

https://www.discoverasr.com/en
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ascott-limited/
https://www.facebook.com/discoverasr/
https://www.instagram.com/discoverasr

Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #AscottStarRewards #DiscoverASR #StayRewarded

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

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

SH1 night closures for asphalt resurfacing in Ashburton – from end of March

LiveNews Publisher

March 5, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Five weeks of night work to resurface a section of SH1 in Ashburton is due to start from Sunday, 30 March through to around 9 May. Although the work’s biggest impacts will be experienced overnight after 8pm, this work will slow down traffic during the daytimes also, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

Crews will be renewing the asphalt on SH1 West St from the SH77 intersection at Moore St to the Ashburton River Bridge in three stages, says Chris Chambers, Maintenance Contract Manager for NZTA in Mid Canterbury.

“Crews will be working on SH1 from 8pm each night through to 6am each morning. Detours will be available for all traffic but there will be delays at times,” he says. (See map below)

A changing range of traffic management, night-time work will affect daytime journeys

“People need to be aware that traffic management will change over the five weeks,” says Mr Chambers. “It will range from Stop/Go, to highway closures and local road detours, each night between 8pm and 6am. People need to build in extra time along this section of SH1 West St.”

He advises allowing an extra 30 minutes if you are travelling through Ashburton after 8pm – and if possible, avoid travelling during the typical morning and afternoon peaks. “We acknowledge that even though we are completing the most impactful work at night, the work site will cause congestion and delays in the area during daytime.”

The three stages

Three-and-a-half weeks of night closures of SH1 West St from the SH77 / Moore St intersection to South Street. Detour via Walnut Ave, Chalmers Ave and South St.
Two nights of closures at the SH1 and SH77/Moore St intersection. SH77 detoured via Oak Grove and Walnut Ave. SH1 detoured via Walnut Ave, Chalmers Ave and South St.
One week of night-time Stop/Go on SH1 from South St to the Ashburton River Bridge.

The State Highway will be reopened each day at 6am, under temporary speed limits with reduced lane widths.

Easter no night work

There will be no work undertaken over Easter Weekend – Friday 18 April through to Easter Monday, 21 April.

While the road is closed, KiwiRail will take the opportunity to complete maintenance work on the SH1 level rail crossing prior to the resurfacing. This will reduce disruptions around further works being required in the immediate future.

NZTA thanks all night-time drivers for taking care around the work site and on the detour routes when they are being used, says Mr Chambers. “We only have a few short weeks left before autumn temperatures make this kind of project unviable, so crews will be doing their best to complete it as fast as they can.”

Asphalt layer cake

Around 6,000 tons of asphalt will be placed in three layers – two structural layers and a top/wearing course.
Overall, the area will measure 10,000 square metres, 250mm thick.
Highways re-surfaced like this have a design life of around 25 years before they need future full reconstruction.

Work happening from next week (10 March) which will also affect Ashburton road users

Prior to the paving works, the Ashburton District Council will be undertaking maintenance and renewal works, replacing a 110-year-old watermain within SH1 between Kermode St and SH77.

Drivers can expect some disruption and delay with construction works in the area from Monday, 10 March while these works are completed ahead, and in preparation for, the highway surfacing rehabilitation works.

View larger map [PNG, 352 KB]

MIL OSI

Four-year term legislation takes first step

LiveNews Publisher

March 5, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Legislation that will enable a four-year term of Parliament subject to a referendum has passed first reading in Parliament today, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“As stipulated in the National-Act coalition agreement, the Bill is modelled on the ACT Party’s draft Constitution (Enabling a 4-Year Term) Amendment Bill.
“This means a standard term of Parliament will remain at three years, but with the ability to extend the maximum term of Parliament to four years.
“The main condition is that membership of certain select committees is calculated in a way that is proportionate to the non-Executive parliamentary party membership of the House.
“Given the constitutional significance of the term of Parliament, this change would be subject to the outcome of a binding referendum.
“Both the National-Act and National-New Zealand First coalition agreements include supporting to select committee a bill that would enact a binding referendum on a four-year term of parliament.
“At this stage, no decisions have been made on whether this Bill will proceed beyond this.
“It is possible a referendum could be held alongside the next General Election in 2026. However, any final decisions on timing for a referendum will depend on what comes out of the select committee process.
“To enable this, a Referendums Framework Bill will also have its first reading this week. This will provide for the conduct of a referendum alongside a General Election and will be modelled on the temporary legislation put in place for the 2020 referendum on the End-of-Life-Choice legislation and on Cannabis regulation.
“Future decisions will also need to be made by the Government as to whether the bill proceeds as introduced, or whether it should be amended.
“We want to hear what New Zealanders think during the select committee process.”

MIL OSI

Health and Academia – University welcomes primary care announcements – UoA

LiveNews Publisher

March 5, 2025

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

The government’s announcements of support for more locally trained doctors and nurses to work in primary care are welcomed by the University of Auckland.

The government’s announcements this week of support for more locally trained doctors and nurses to work in primary care are welcomed by the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences Dean, Professor Warwick Bagg and Head of Nursing Professor Julia Slark.

Today, 5 March, Health Minister Hon Simeon Brown announced five-year funding for training of 120 nurse practitioners based in primary care, as well as $21.6 million over four years to accelerate advanced tertiary education for up to 120 primary care registered nurses a year.

Head of the School of Nursing Professor Julia Slark says it’s excellent news, especially to see the government’s sustained commitment over to funding for additional primary care nurse training.

“We really welcome the investment in nursing. It is pleasing because nurses have a pivotal role in primary care,” Slark says.

Yesterday, Brown announced an increase of 25 training places for doctors in the two existing medical schools and training opportunities in primary care for up to 50 New Zealand-trained graduate doctors. Earlier in the week, the minister also announced 100 clinical places for overseas-trained doctors to work in primary care.

Professor Bagg says the announcements recognise the urgent workforce needs of the health system.

“Every New Zealander knows our health system is under strain, and we need a range of solutions to meet those needs. The announcements are excellent news. The University of Auckland looks forward to offering more places for students to study medicine.”

MIL OSI

FBS and SUKA Society Support Malaysian Communities During Ramadan

MIL OSI

March 5, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2025 – FBS, a leading global broker, continues making a difference by donating $10 000 to support vulnerable communities in Malaysia during the holy month of Ramadan. In partnership with SUKA Society, FBS is providing essential food supplies, gift packs, and celebrations for refugee children, foster families, and survivors of human trafficking.

FBS and SUKA Society Support Malaysian Communities During Ramadan

On February 25, FBS and SUKA Society launched the initiative with the first monthly food packing event, ensuring that unaccompanied refugee minors receive essential nutrition. The collaboration will continue throughout Ramadan with several key activities:

Mid-March: The preparation of Ramadan gift packs for refugee minors and Muslim foster families.
March 3–21: Food deliveries to government protection shelters supporting survivors of human trafficking.
March 26: The second monthly food packing event.
April 9 & 12: Hari Raya celebrations for undocumented and refugee children.

“This Ramadan, we are grateful to once again collaborate with FBS in supporting vulnerable and marginalized communities through SUKA Society’s programs,” said Anderson Selvasegaram, Executive Director, SUKA Society. “Thanks to FBS’s generosity, we will be able to bring joy and relief to those in need, including 45 refugee children without parents, 16 foster refugee families, and 100 survivors of human trafficking. Ramadan is a time of hope and generosity, and the support from FBS will provide much-needed comfort and dignity to our beneficiaries.”

FBS volunteers participated in organizing aid packages and preparing deliveries to guarantee efficient distribution to those in need. “At FBS, we believe in giving back to the community. Today, alongside SUKA Society volunteers, we worked together to organize essential aid, ensuring that those in need receive basic amenities efficiently. It’s inspiring to see the impact of collective effort in making a difference,” shared Aizzat Arfa, FBS Official Representative.

FBS is honored to contribute to meaningful initiatives that bring relief, dignity, and joy to those in need. As the company continues its mission to empower communities, it remains committed to making a real impact beyond trading.

https://fbs.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/fbs-inc-/
https://www.facebook.com/financefreedomsuccess/
https://www.instagram.com/fbs_forex/

Hashtag: #FBS #Ramadan #CSR #Malaysia

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

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

New Antarctica swift field tests to speed up avian influenza monitoring

LiveNews Publisher

March 5, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Sampling and timely testing for avian influenza in remote locations like Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands is now a step closer thanks the development of a portable laboratory, says Minister for Biosecurity Andrew Hoggard.Biosecurity New Zealand recently tested the ground-breaking equipment during a voyage to Antarctica on the icebreaker MV Argus.
“This was an incredible opportunity to be able to locate, sample and test for HPAI in the field under extreme conditions,” says Andrew Hoggard.HPAI H5N1 emerged in 2020 and has spread through most of the world. In February 2024, it was detected on the Antarctic peninsula. Affected species include brown skuas, Adélie penguins, snowy sheathbill and Antarctic fur seals. “The benefit of this is that samples don’t need to be sent to a laboratory for testing, a process which can take weeks from remote locations like Antarctica. Instead, a confirmed result for HPAI H5N1 can be obtained within 48 hours of taking the sample.”The portable laboratory was set up aboard the MV Argus. Samples were collected from a skua carcass on Torgersen Island in the Palmer Archipelago before being tested aboard ship.“I understand that conditions were incredibly challenging to set up complex lab work, with the vessel having very limited space. But it was the ultimate test of the portable lab, and it proved to be a huge success.” Research stations in the area do not have sequencing capability and do not test for HPAI. If samples are taken, they are typically sent back to Australia for testing, which can take weeks.“Having the portable lab for remote locations like this means results can be obtained in the field – allowing faster more informed decisions on any next steps. While HPAI H5N1 is still some distance from New Zealand, it’s important that we take a cautious approach.“We need to be prepared and have strong biosecurity practices in place. Everyone has a part to play.”Detailed information on how to prepare for HPAI H5N1 is here

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