Home Blog Page 903

Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise unlocks multi-vendor support on OmniVista Network Advisor

0

Source: Media Outreach

ALE expands intelligence beyond its own devices with OmniVista Network Advisor which now integrates with third-party devices.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2025 – Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise, a leading provider of secure networking and communication solutions that enable organizations and industries to accelerate their operational efficiencies and competitiveness, has made major enhancements to the OmniVista® Network Advisor, making network operations and monitoring even simpler and more holistic.

The latest evolution in OmniVista Network Advisor capabilities empowers users to monitor a wider range of network devices, offering flexibility and greater customization in managing network health and performance.

OmniVista Network Advisor, our intelligent and autonomous network companion, has been providing AI-driven guidance and remediation for Alcatel-Lucent’s OmniSwitch® and OmniAccess® Stellar Access Points.

This tool is now opening its capabilities to third-party devices, such as firewalls or any network equipment from other vendors, enhancing its ability to detect anomalies and offer tailored solutions across more complex, multi-vendor environments.

Seamless Collaboration with Microsoft Teams

A major milestone in this update is the integration of Microsoft Teams as a collaboration platform within OmniVista Network Advisor. Until now, ALE has leveraged Rainbow™ CPaaS for real-time alerts and automated remediation. Now, with full Microsoft Teams integration, IT teams can receive dynamic notifications, collaborate instantly, and execute network remediations directly within the Teams environment.

By providing real-time, AI-driven insights through both Rainbow CPaaS and Microsoft Teams, OmniVista Network Advisor adapts to customers’ preferred collaboration tools, improving responsiveness and control.

Customized alerts and remediations for your unique network

The new capability allows users to define custom anomalies and create specific remediation actions tailored to their unique network environments.

“With the ability to collect and analyze syslogs from compatible third-party devices, OmniVista Network Advisor enables users to configure custom alerts and automate responses based on these insights, helping to maintain an optimal, secure network state.”

  • Kenny Ng, APAC Market Development, Network Business Division, Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise

Hashtag: #ALE

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

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

Universities – Hon. Carmel Sepuloni talks Celebrity Treasure Island and imposter syndrome on return to University of Auckland

0
Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

New Zealand’s first Pacific Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Carmel Sepuloni returned to the place that became the catalyst for her political career, Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland.

Accompanied by fellow alumnus Labour MP Hon. Shanan Halbert, she spoke with a cohort of Māori and Pacific school leavers on 10 February as a guest of Unibound, the summer academic enrichment programme designed to ease students into university life.
 
Despite having risen to the highest ranks of political life the Deputy Leader of the Opposition says she much prefers talking policy rather than sharing her own story.
 
“It’s probably one of the most uncomfortable things to do. I’d much rather talk about policy and politics than my personal backstory. But I think it’s really important to come back here and talk to the students.”
 
As a highly experienced politician Sepuloni (Samoa, Tonga and Pākehā) is used to Question Time. However it was likely her first Q&A session including questions about her time on Celebrity Treasure Island. In particular the challenge with media personality Gabby Solomona where both held a block together using only their feet.
 
“Of course I got asked some questions about Celebrity Treasure Island and the challenge with Gabby and what that meant, and I could speak to the importance of that ‘duty of care’ we have to each other as part of being Pacific people, and how sometimes we will actually achieve more out of working with a sense of obligation to someone else, as opposed to just our own individual pursuits.”
 
Sepuloni studied at the Auckland College of Education and later gained a Bachelor of Education and Diploma of Primary School Teaching with the University of Auckland. She also ran the University’s Tuakana programme as Equity Manager with the Faculty of Arts for five years, working predominantly with Māori and Pacific undergraduate students.
 
“This was so very close to my own heart and also a catalyst for what got me into politics in the first place,” she says of her passion that also extended to working with youth who had fallen out of the schooling system.
 
“It was my passion for education, for our Pacific community. My first hand witness to the inequities that exist for us as Pacific people in the education system.  And so I will always take up the opportunity to come back to the University of Auckland, particularly to see our Pacific students.”
 
As well as the numerous questions about politics, the discussion turned to Imposter syndrome and Sepuloni was able to cast back to more than three decades ago when she was an undergraduate student at the University and the first in her family to venture into the tertiary space.
 
“We talked about imposter syndrome and I mentioned that I actually had it as an undergrad student, because I was the first in my family, like many of them, to come to university.
 
“So the space and the environment was quite unfamiliar and scary for me to start with. We talked about imposter syndrome in that setting, but I said that for many of us that are brown and women, that it’s something that that we may carry for life, but it isn’t necessarily to the same extent.”
 
Speaking with the young audience, Sepuloni realised there were many shared similarities but was aware that time and progress had a made a difference.
 
“I guess the thing that I’m cognizant of is these kids are so much younger than me.
I’m standing there talking to them, and I realize that I could be their mother, reflecting and realizing it’s nearly been 30 years since I was a first-year university student. So I’m really mindful that despite the fact we’ll have some similarities and experience, and that some things haven’t changed that much, there is still, you know, a huge amount of difference between us.”
 
Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau says having the Leader of the Opposition and the country’s first former Pacific female Deputy Prime Minister was an invaluable experience for the Unibound school leavers to realise what the future could hold in store for them.
 
“This was an invaluable experience for our young people to be in the same room as the Hon. Carmel Sepuloni; the opportunity to ask her about her journey and the steps she took toward her accomplishments, it has made a great impression and given them motivation as they set out on the start of their tertiary journey.”
 
Professor Tiatia-Siau also acknowledged ethnomusicologist and lecturer Sharon Televave along with UniBound acting manager Sara Toleafoa for bringing Sepuloni back to the University.
 
“Vā Fealoa’i is a Samoan concept, which is about relationality. Similarly, Tauhi Vā is a Tongan concept about relationality. Nurturing vā or relationships, is essential in Pacific cultures, this made it seamless for us to contact the Hon Carmel Sepuloni, says Sharon Televave.
 
As an alumni and former staff member of the University, Televave was hopeful the visit would plant seeds to empower our Pacific students about to embark on their academic journeys.

MIL OSI

HolidayGoGoGo Proudly Unveils New Overseas Tour Packages For Every Budget

0

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2025 – HolidayGoGoGo, a leading travel agency in Malaysia, is excited to introduce a brand-new range of overseas tour packages designed for adventure-seekers and leisure travellers. Travellers of every budget can now explore stunning beaches, endangered marine life, or iconic cultural sites with HolidayGoGoGo’s customisable packages, providing them the perfect opportunity to explore Southeast Asia and beyond.

As one of Malaysia’s most competitive tour agencies, HolidayGoGoGo provides comprehensive and affordable services, promising unforgettable holidays for everyone.

Discover the Best of Southeast Asia and Beyond
HolidayGoGoGo’s latest overseas travel packages include breathtaking destinations across Thailand, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Korea. Each package is carefully curated to provide a balance of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion.

Top Travel Destinations

Koh Lipe, Thailand

Famous for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back island vibes, Koh Lipe is a paradise for beach lovers and snorkelling enthusiasts. Explore Koh Lipe snorkelling packages that offer immersive experiences, allowing travellers to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, all while basking in the island’s pristine, white-sand beaches and breathtaking sunsets.

Bali, Indonesia

An enchanting blend of culture, nature, and adventure, Bali captivates visitors with its lush terraced rice fields, sacred temples, and world-famous beaches. For travellers looking to surf the rolling waves of Kuta Beach, explore the spiritual sanctuaries of Uluwatu, or unwind in the artistic town of Ubud, Bali offers an experience that is both deeply cultural and refreshingly tropical.

Hanoi & Halong Bay, Vietnam

Hanoi, Vietnam’s charming capital, invites visitors to stroll through its bustling Old Quarter, savouring aromatic street food and uncovering centuries-old architecture. From there, embark on a Halong Bay tour package to witness the breathtaking limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, where travellers and explorers can cruise through hidden caves, kayak along tranquil waters, and witness spectacular sunsets in one of the world’s most iconic seascapes.

Seoul & Jeju, Korea

A dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, Seoul is a city where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside ancient palaces. A Seoul holiday package allows visitors to explore vibrant shopping districts, indulge in world-famous Korean cuisine, and immerse themselves in K-pop culture. For nature lovers, HolidayGoGoGo Jeju travel package offers an escape to South Korea’s volcanic island, known for its picturesque waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, and serene hiking trails leading to Hallasan, the country’s highest peak.

Osaka & Tokyo, Japan

Japan’s most exciting cities promise an unforgettable adventure. Osaka, known as the “Kitchen of Japan,” delights food lovers with its delicious street eats like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. HolidayGoGoGo Osaka Japan tour package takes travellers through its historic castle, lively markets, and neon-lit entertainment hubs.

For more urban travellers, Tokyo is a captivating blend of ultra-modern innovation and historic charm. HolidayGoGoGo Tokyo Japan travel package allows visitors to explore serene temples, cutting-edge fashion districts, and world-renowned culinary experiences.

All-Inclusive Customisable Holidays

In addition to these top destinations, HolidayGoGoGo also provides all-inclusive holiday packages for other sought-after destinations such as Krabi, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hainan, Shanghai, Medan, Yogyakarta, Phú Quốc, and more. Travellers can customise their itineraries based on their preferences, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Curated Travel Itineraries

As the leading travel agency in Malaysia, HolidayGoGoGo is committed to providing travellers with seamless and memorable experiences. With expertly crafted itineraries on top of excellent customer service, HolidayGoGoGo ensures that every trip is hassle-free and enjoyable for every traveller.

For bookings and inquiries, visit HolidayGoGoGo’s website or Whatsapp to start planning your dream vacation.

https://www.facebook.com/holidaygogogo
https://www.instagram.com/holidaygogogo_/
https://www.youtube.com/@Holidaygogogo

Hashtag: #HolidayGoGoGo

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

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

Better homes for Papakura Military Camp personnel

0

Source: New Zealand Government

New state-of-the-art soldiers’ flats have officially opened for junior ranks at Papakura Military Camp, Associate Defence Minister Chris Penk has announced.  

“The aging camp barracks had been in use for more than 40 years and were leaky, mouldy and outdated. Our soldiers, sailors and aviators deserve homes where they can thrive,” Mr Penk says.  

“The completion of these new units through the Defence Estate Regeneration Plan is a significant step in this Government’s mission to transform living conditions for the force. 

“This $5.8-million initiative is more than a construction project – it is a promise to our personnel that their health, morale, and comfort are a priority as they dedicate themselves to our country.” 

The new accommodation includes five, four-bedroom fully furnished units with kitchens, lounges and ensuites – alongside a utility building with large commercial washing machines, drying rooms and storage.  

“The project was delivered in an impressive six-month timeframe and constructed off-site with modular technology. Its success offers an exciting look at how innovative building practices can help transform military facilities around New Zealand.

“This is about ensuring those who wear the uniform and stand ready to defend New Zealand have the support they need, on and off the field.” 

MIL OSI

Wellington drug suppliers ordered to forfeit assets

0

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Please attribute to Detective Sergeant Sam Buckley, Central Asset Recovery Unit Wellington.

A Wellington-based drug supplier has had nearly $340,000 in assets seized, including a 42-foot yacht and high-end art, and could stand to lose more than $2.5 million more.

This is the result of a long-running investigation by Police’s Asset Recovery Unit into the activities of Kenny Leslie McMillan, which were brought to a halt in 2019. The forfeiture orders were issued by the High Court at Wellington on 12 February this year.

In 2019, an investigation led by the Wellington Organised Crime Unit – dubbed Operation Superdry – was launched into the drug supply activity of McMillan.

While he pleaded guilty to some charges shortly before a hearing, he continued to deny other charges. He was subsequently subject to a jury trial, where he was found guilty, and sentenced to 18 years imprisonment in 2021.

The assets ordered to be forfeited on 12 February include cash and bank accounts totalling nearly $168,000, three motor vehicles, a 42-foot Silverton 330 sport launch, jewellery – including a Hubolt watch estimated to be worth $50,000 – and a Ralph Hotere lithograph.

The profit forfeiture order issued against McMillan totals $2.758 million – this order encompasses the profits made from his offending. It can potentially lead to future assets identified as belonging to McMillan also being seized.

Operation Superdry targeted a drug dealing syndicate led by McMillan, who would arrange for methamphetamine to be sourced from Auckland and transported to Wellington in cars with secret compartments customised especially to conceal the drugs.

McMillan concealed drugs in inner city parking buildings, where they were exchanged for cash. Robert Jason Taui was convicted as part of the syndicate for his part in these exchanges.

Taui was sentenced to nine years and one month imprisonment, and in March 2024 was himself ordered to forfeit assets including cash, motorbikes and vehicles totalling nearly $54,000. A profit forfeiture order of $1.38 million was also made against him.

The Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act investigation established the assets of both McMillan and Taui were derived through illicit means, allowing them to live a lifestyle beyond legitimate means.

“Police will continue to target organised crime offenders through both criminal and civil court jurisdictions,” Detective Sergeant Sam Buckley says.

“The profit forfeiture orders issued in these proceedings demonstrate the full extent of criminality and amount of unlawful benefit received by the offenders. Property to an equivalent value can then be sought for forfeiture regardless of when or how it was acquired.”

“One of the primary reasons that organised crime exists is to make money. This result will have a direct impact on the perception that those who commit crime can profit from it,” he says

Organised crime and gangs cause serious harm to our communities and Police will continue to work to strip organised crime groups and their associates of their illegitimate wealth.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Police aware of social media posts, west Auckland

0

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Please attribute to Inspector Jason Edwards, Waitematā West Area Commander:

Police are aware of social media posts across multiple west Auckland community pages concerning some suspicious activity reported this week.

Some of these posts relate to an assault near the Sturges Road train station on Monday morning, in which a man was charged with assault.

We are also aware of posts outlining suspicious activity allegedly involving the same specific vehicle and individual.

To the community, we are aware of this matter and we are dealing with this.

We strongly urge the community to cease posting photos or personal details of this individual on social media.

If anyone has concerns or information relating to offending that is occurring, this should be reported to Police immediately so it can be dealt with appropriately.

The public should not be taking matters into their own hands.

Police have attended an assault at a Massey property this afternoon, where a person has been arrested and is being spoken to.

The last thing anyone needs right now is people putting themselves at risk of harm or in a situation where they may be potentially committing an offence.

Please report any matters to Police as they happen by calling 111.

Any further information can be reported by reporting online, calling 105, or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.

Jared Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

Auckland Council advances flood resilience project in Rānui

0

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council is taking further action to protect homes from flooding with the Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee endorsing a major flood resilience project for Clover Drive in Rānui.

This follows the green light given to critical projects in Māngere earlier in 2024.

“I’m pleased that we’ll be able to get on with the flood resilience work in Rānui. This community was among the worst affected during the 2023 Anniversary Weekend floods so it’s critical we progress the work to mitigate against future risk and protect residents living in these areas,” says Mayor Wayne Brown.

At its recent meeting, the Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee approved the business case for Clover Drive flood resilience works which now releases funding for the design and consenting processes.

“Receiving the endorsement to progress with this next project is a much-welcomed step forward,” says Councillor Andy Baker, Chair of the Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee.

“Reducing the risks to our flood-prone communities is a clear priority for this council. Improving the capacity to manage stormwater in these areas will significantly reduce flood risk for hundreds of homes as well as create an opportunity to make transformational improvements to the wider community.”

Improving flood resilience in Rānui

Many streets, including Clover Drive and more, in the Rānui area experienced severe flooding during the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods. The area was inundated with floodwaters, reaching depths of close to two metres in some houses with emergency services conducting numerous rescues of marooned residents.

Waitākere Ward Councillor Shane Henderson acknowledges the impacts of flooding on this community and the importance of this work.

“Our communities in Rānui have been feeling the severe impacts of flooding long before the Auckland Anniversary floods and were one of the worst hit areas at the time. It’s important that we, as a council, support our hardest hit communities and it’s great to see the work in Clover Drive prioritised so it can progress swiftly,” says Cr Henderson.

Waitākere Ward Councillor Ken Turner celebrates this milestone and acknowledges that there’s more work to be done.

“It’s good to see this work reach a key milestone for our West Auckland communities. It’s important for us to ensure our focus remains on maintaining these improvements into the future so we can safeguard against increased capacity.”

The planned improvements in Rānui will be done in collaboration with local iwi and the community to maximise benefits for the wider area. Works may involve widening of streams and installing debris racks to enhance water flow and reduce the risk of blockages. Upgrades to bridges to increase stormwater flow will also be planned with community input.

These physical changes will be complemented by efforts to enhance the local environment, creating open spaces, connecting parkland and pathways, and widening streams to redirect water away from homes during heavy rain events. This work stands to bring many benefits to the community, including better water quality, more open space, improved biodiversity, and better connectivity.

This initiative is part of the Making Space for Water programme co-funded by local and central government to share the cost of storm recovery and resilience work in the Auckland region.

Early concept designs are currently being scoped and once completed will be presented to cabinet for final funding approval by March 2025. Once funding is approved, community engagement will continue, before moving into detailed design stages, with construction expected to commence in late 2026/early 2027.

Planning and prioritisation for future projects

Many communities were heavily impacted by the severe weather events of early 2023 including the Wairau Valley area which experienced widespread damage, especially in the residential areas of Tōtara Vale, Nile Road and commercial areas around Wairau Road, tragically resulting in two fatalities.

The council is working closely with the Wairau community to gather feedback and input on early concept designs before a business case is submitted in the coming months.

Further areas across Tāmaki Makaurau continue to be assessed and prioritised for future blue-green works.

You can find out more information about these projects on the council’s website or you can reach out to the team at bluegreen@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

About Making Space for Water

The Making Space for Water programme includes a range of initiatives to reduce flood risk to Aucklanders. Part of this is building new flood resilient infrastructure to enhance stormwater assets and green spaces to deliver increased flood management.

Auckland Council is sharing some of the cost of flood resilience projects with central government as part of a $2 billion co-funding agreement for storm recovery. These are subject to business case approvals from both the council and the government, and projects must demonstrate a flood risk reduction for the wider community, not just individual properties.

MIL OSI

ViewQwest Enhances Malaysia Commercial Leadership Team to Drive Growth

0

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2025 – ViewQwest, a leading telecommunications, network, and security services provider in Southeast Asia, has announced the appointment of Simon Ang as Head of Enterprise Sales in Malaysia. This strategic appointment underscores ViewQwest’s commitment to strengthening its commercial presence and accelerating business growth in a key market for its rapidly expanding managed services portfolio. Ang will lead the company’s enterprise engagement strategy, driving deeper partnerships and delivering innovative solutions that support Malaysia’s digital transformation.

With over 30 years of experience in IT and telecommunications, Ang brings extensive expertise in enterprise sales, business development, and strategic account management. Prior to joining ViewQwest, he served as Director of Carrier Relations at DCConnect, overseeing telecom network wholesale operations in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. He also led Platform and Managed Services at NTT MSC Sdn Bhd’s Cloud Services Division, and held leadership roles at global firms such as IBM, HP, and PCCW, where he drove market expansion, digital transformation, and operational excellence.

“Simon’s leadership and deep understanding of enterprise solutions come at a pivotal time for ViewQwest,” said Benjamin Tan, Chief Commercial Officer of ViewQwest. “As we accelerate our commercial efforts in Malaysia, his expertise will be instrumental in strengthening our market position and ensuring our solutions effectively address enterprise needs.”

Ang expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “I’m excited to join ViewQwest at this transformative stage of its growth. With our innovative suite of services tailored for the Malaysian market, we are uniquely positioned to help businesses optimize their networks and enhance cybersecurity. A key focus will be on revitalizing the Enterprise Sales team, equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and strategies needed to drive meaningful business impact.”

His appointment reinforces ViewQwest’s commitment to investing in both commercial and technical talent to support its rapid growth as a trusted partner for network and security transformation. With Ang’s deep experience in business development and partner management, the company aims to strengthen channel partnerships and expand strategic alliances, further solidifying its leadership in the region.

“I am confident that with Simon on board, our Enterprise Sales team will be even more empowered to drive growth and success,” added Tan.

Hashtag: #ViewQwest

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

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

Release: Disabled people languishing in psych wards due to Govt cuts

0

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

National’s cuts to disability support funding and freezing of new residential placements has resulted in significant mental health decline for intellectually disabled people.

“It’s unacceptable that government decisions have resulted in trauma for disabled people, their families, and carers. Clinicians are clearly seeing a decline in the mental health of their intellectually disabled patients as a result,” Priyanca Radhakrishnan said.

A report in the New Zealand Medical Journal published today, outlines clinicians’ concerns that intellectually disabled people are being declined residential placements because of the government’s freeze on new placements. They note this is leading to an increase in high-risk suicidal and violent behaviour.

“We have been down this road before and know the dangers which come with institutionalisation. We’ve seen in the Royal Commission of Inquiry, the risks of returning to a time where individuals were placed into care completely unfit for their needs.

“These cuts take us back decades and are causing years of irreversible harm for disabled people and their families. Some have been unable to transition back to the community, and are effectively trapped in hospitals, blocking access to others who need care.

“With the funding freeze meaning no new residential places are funded, families who’d already made the decision to place a loved one in a care home after visiting the residence have now been locked out of this option.

“Louise Upston needs to start taking responsibility for this and stop blaming Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) services.

“She must reverse these changes immediately and ensure that NASCs are supported to honour the care packages previously agreed upon so that all disabled people, their families and carers can access the support they need,” Priyanca Radhakrishnan said.


Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on FacebookInstagram, and X.

MIL OSI

Arrest after historic items stolen in church burglaries

0

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

A man is before the courts following the burglary of two churches in Canterbury over the last week.

Between Saturday 8 February and Tuesday 11 February, Police received reports of two burglaries at churches in Eyreton, and Christchurch, along with one at a repeater site in Waimate.

A number of items were stolen, including challises, an ornament, and other items, a large number of which have since been recovered.

At around midday today, Police arrested a 35-year-old man near the Rakaia bridge, following some excellent investigative work by Canterbury Rural Police.

He is due to appear before the Christchurch District Court tomorrow, Saturday 15 February, on charges relating to the three burglaries.

Senior Sergeant Stephen McDaniel said We will not accept people taking advantage of the community, or community locations, and will follow up on relevant lines of enquiry to identify and locate those invovled when this occurs.

“We are glad to be able to hold this offender, who showed little regard for the community, to account,” Ssgt McDaniel said.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre
 

MIL OSI