Insecurity in work, housing, and health among working people has emerged as the key finding from the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi’s 2025 annual Mood of the Workforce survey.
NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff says the survey, which polled more than 1900 people, shows immense concern that the Government is taking Aotearoa New Zealand in the wrong direction.
“We’ve been running this survey since 2019, and I have never seen such a negative response. People are in fear for their jobs and their businesses, their ability to keep their homes, and for their health,” said Wagstaff.
“They also don’t trust this Government to make it better because they are feeling firsthand the damage that’s been done with austerity policies that are only benefiting an already privileged few.
“The message that the Government has no interest in helping working people, who are the majority of New Zealanders, is coming through strongly in people’s comments on the tax system, the health system, and their work.
“People are sharing stories of losing their jobs or struggling to cover the work of colleagues who have already lost their jobs. These are heartbreaking to hear. But so are the stories of families being broken up as people’s kids leave the country to find better job prospects, or of parents having to act as a safety net for their adult children. These children have been hit hardest by the recent downturns, and an unfair and unforgiving housing market.
“A consistent theme is an overwhelming sense that something is very wrong, both in our society and with the economy.
“We’ve seen that at a statistical level in things like the recent Curia polling which showed people feel we are on the wrong track as a nation, but the results from our workforce survey give a close up and troubling picture of what that means in people’s lives.
“My great concern is that rather than admit that their policy direction is hurting people and damaging our economy, the Government is doubling down on it in their recent announcements.
“Whether that’s because of the Government’s arrogance or because they live in a bubble of privilege and don’t understand the damage they are doing is immaterial. People want a change of direction and to see things done a different and better way.
“Any politician or political party that ignores working people and their communities does so at their peril,” said Wagstaff.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 January 2025 – Dou Yee Enterprises, a prominent global player in high-tech manufacturing and precision engineering, has entered into a strategic partnership with BIOVIA a leader in scientific software solutions. Through this collaboration, Dou Yee will serve as a reseller of BIOVIA Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and Electronic Laboratory Notebook (ELN) software solutions across Southeast Asia. This propelled Dou Yee’s expansion into the rapidly growing life sciences, healthcare, and research sectors in the region, leveraging BIOVIA’s powerful software solutions to meet the evolving needs of laboratories and research institutions.
Partnership BIOVIA with DOUYEE
Why Southeast Asia is the Right Market for LIMS and ELN Solutions Southeast Asia, with its burgeoning life sciences and pharmaceutical industries, is increasingly becoming a hotspot for scientific innovation. As countries in the region ramp up their investments in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotech research, there is a clear and growing demand for sophisticated laboratory management systems that can manage complex data, ensure compliance, and support cutting-edge research. Here are a few reasons why Southeast Asia presents an ideal market for the introduction of BIOVIA’s LIMS and ELN solutions:
1. Rapid Growth in Life Sciences and Biotech Southeast Asia is experiencing significant growth in the life sciences and biotech sectors. Countries like Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia are becoming global hubs for pharmaceutical development, biotechnology, and medical research. With this growth comes an increasing need for software solutions that can help laboratories efficiently manage data, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance productivity.
2. Digital Transformation in Laboratories As laboratories across Southeast Asia modernize their operations, there is a shift from traditional paper-based record-keeping to digital systems that enhance efficiency and accuracy. The adoption of LIMS and ELN systems helps help laboratories digitize workflows, improving collaboration, data integrity, and traceability, which are crucial for innovation in scientific research.
3. Regulatory Compliance and Data Integrity Regulatory requirements across Southeast Asia are becoming more stringent, particularly in the pharmaceutical, medical device, and research sectors. Software solutions that offer robust data security, audit trails, and compliance features—like BIOVIA LIMS and ELN—are essential for meeting local and international regulatory standards such as GxP (Good Laboratory Practice), FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and ISO 17025.
4. Collaboration in Scientific Research Many Southeast Asian countries are investing in regional research and development collaborations, particularly in the fields of pharmaceuticals, genetics, and healthcare. ELN systems facilitate real-time collaboration among researchers, enabling teams across different locations to work together seamlessly, share data, and maintain accurate records.
The Power of BIOVIA’s LIMS and ELN Software Solutions BIOVIA’s LIMS and ELN software solutions are designed to help laboratories streamline their operations, improve data management, and enhance regulatory compliance. As Dou Yee begins reselling these solutions in Southeast Asia, customers in the region can look forward to the following benefits:
1. Enhanced Efficiency and Automation BIOVIA’s LIMS allows laboratories to automate routine tasks such as sample tracking, test management, and result analysis. This not only reduces the risk of human error but also increases throughput, enabling labs to manage higher volumes of data with greater efficiency.
2. Improved Data Integrity and Compliance LIMS and ELN solutions from BIOVIA ensure that all data is recorded, stored, and shared in a secure and compliant manner. This is particularly important in regulated industries where maintaining an audit trail and adhering to data integrity standards is critical. BIOVIA’s solutions comply with global regulations such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 17025, and GMP, ensuring that laboratories in Southeast Asia can meet both local and international compliance requirements.
3. Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing ELNs promote collaboration among research teams by providing a centralized, digital repository for experimental data, notes, and findings. This digital platform ensures that data is easily accessible to all authorized users, making it easier for researchers in Southeast Asia to work together on multi-disciplinary and cross-border projects. 4. Scalability and Flexibility BIOVIA’s LIMS and ELN software solutions are scalable and can be customized to fit the needs of a wide range of laboratories, from small research labs to large-scale pharmaceutical companies. This flexibility ensures that organizations of all sizes can benefit from the software’s powerful capabilities. 5. Real-Time Analytics and Reporting With built-in data analytics and reporting tools, BIOVIA’s solutions help laboratories gain deeper insights into their operations. Real-time dashboards, customizable reports, and data visualization tools enable laboratory managers and researchers to make data-driven decisions that improve outcomes and streamline workflows.
Dou Yee’s Role as a Reseller As part of its new role as a reseller for BIOVIA solution in Southeast Asia, Dou Yee Enterprises will focus on several key initiatives to drive adoption and support customers in the region:
1. Marketing and Awareness Campaigns Dou Yee will collaborate with BIOVIA to launch marketing campaigns and conduct outreach activities such as webinars, seminars, and workshops aimed at educating potential customers about the benefits of LIMS and ELN systems. These efforts will focus on the growing need for digital solutions in laboratories across Southeast Asia. 2. Regional Partnerships and Collaborations Dou Yee will actively engage with regional laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and universities to introduce BIOVIA’s software solutions. The company will also explore strategic collaborations with other technology providers to offer integrated solutions that meet the diverse needs of the market. 3. Customer Feedback and Customization Dou Yee’s customer-focused approach will ensure that feedback from local clients is integrated into product development and support offerings. This will help ensure that BIOVIA’s LIMS and ELN solutions remain adaptable to the unique requirements of Southeast Asian laboratories.
Conclusion Dou Yee Enterprises’ partnership with BIOVIA to resell LIMS and ELN software solutions in Southeast Asia is a significant step in both companies’ efforts to drive innovation and digital transformation in the region’s laboratory and research sectors. With Dou Yee’s established presence in the region and BIOVIA’s world-class software, this partnership is well-positioned to help laboratories in Southeast Asia enhance operational efficiency, improve data integrity, and ensure compliance with regulatory
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 January 2025 – The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines kicked off 2025 with its annual Pasasalamat event on January 27th at the historic Centro de Turismo Intramuros. Celebrating the vital role of media professionals and content creators, the evening reflected on TPB’s key achievements and milestones in tourism promotion.
2024 milestones of TPB Philippines include generating PHP 11.3 billion in tourism sales leads, securing PHP 918 million in leads through global travel fairs like ITB Berlin and World Travel Market (WTM) London, and achieving PHP 1.44 billion in media values through strategic media partnerships.
TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles shared impressive stats: in 2024, the agency generated over PHP 11.3 billion in sales leads, a 44.8% increase from the year before. Global travel fairs like ITB Berlin and the World Travel Market in London contributed PHP 918 million in leads, while strategic partnerships with media outlets like GMA7, ABS-CBN, CNN, Bloomberg, and Euronews added PHP 1.44 billion in media values.
“Pasasalamat is our way of recognizing the invaluable contributions of our communication partners and stakeholders in helping us share the wonders of the Philippines,” said Nograles. “Through your dedication, we’ve reached new heights and inspired travelers to explore our country.”
Stars such as Timothy Granaderos from 13 Reasons Why, Nico Santos from Crazy Rich Asians, Broadway’s Aladdin star Josh de la Cruz, and Korean actor Kim Ji Soo were lauded for their significant contributions to elevating the Philippines’ global presence. Renowned music icons like LANY were also celebrated for fostering the vibe of a transformative and vibrant cultural hotspot.
Likewise, the TPB’s Community-Based Tourism Marketing Enhancement Program has effectively empowered local communities to highlight their unique cultural and natural assets. Through workshops and training sessions in Bicol and CALABARZON in late 2024, grassroots stakeholders developed strategies to attract travelers while safeguarding their heritage. This initiative has not only boosted visitor engagement in these destinations but also fostered sustainable economic opportunities, ensuring that tourism directly benefits the local communities.
At the tail end of her presentation, Nograles also shared that the TPB is in the final stretches of its preparations for World Expo Osaka, which opens on April 13. This global platform presents a unique opportunity to showcase the Philippines’ rich tourism offerings, attract sustainable investments, and drive economic growth.
As the country steps confidently into 2025, the TPB’s unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable tourism continues to lay the foundation for a thriving industry, poised to inspire the world, invite travelers and investors alike to experience the many reasons to love the Philippines.
UPDATE: Covering period of Monday 27 – Thursday 30 January – MetService is forecasting a quieter weather day on Tuesday before another system sweeps across the South Island later in the day and into Wednesday, bringing rain and strong winds. Meanwhile, the North Island gets a reprieve from the muggy conditions of the past weekend, enjoying fresher air ahead of the next weather system later this week.
Following the devastating tornado in Mangawhai early on Sunday morning, Monday brought yet another day of unsettled weather for parts of Aotearoa New Zealand. Showers and thunderstorms were widespread in the east, with unseasonable snow falling in elevated parts of Canterbury, driven by a cold front moving northward. For regions marking Auckland Anniversary Day in the northern half of the North Island, the day was brighter and more settled.
This brighter weather extends across much of the country on Tuesday, thanks to a brief ridge of high pressure. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane explains, “After an active couple of days weather-wise, many may welcome a bright and sunny summer day. However, the odd shower may still pop up in the western South Island and upper North Island. Later in the afternoon, the next weather system begins to make its presence felt.”
From Tuesday afternoon, winds strengthen over the lower South Island as the approaching weather system brings the potential for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds. MetService has issued Strong Wind Watches from Fiordland to inland Canterbury for Tuesday late afternoon to Wednesday. Heavy Rain Watches are also in effect for Fiordland and the ranges of the Westland District, primarily overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday. In the eastern South Island, brief rain is expected on Wednesday as the weather system moves through, while conditions clear on Thursday, with lingering rain possible for Buller and Tasman. The rain reaches the lower North Island early Thursday, where it is expected to be for much of the day.
In the North Island, the muggy conditions of recent days are replaced by cooler, fresher air. Single-digit temperatures may greet some areas in the central and lower North Island on Tuesday morning. “I imagine the cooler temperatures will make sleeping a lot easier for many compared to these last few nights,” adds Makgabutlane. However, warm overnight temperatures return to the lower North Island towards the end of the working week.
In her first announcement as Economic Growth Minister, Nicola Willis chose to loosen restrictions for digital nomads from other countries, rather than focus on everyday Kiwis.
“The fact that Nicola Willis is offering benefits to visitors that she won’t even allow New Zealanders, shows exactly where her priorities lie,” Labour’s finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.
“I don’t have a problem with tweaks here and there so we can ensure we have good investment in New Zealand, but I do have a problem with Nicola Willis’ double standards.
“National is choosing to prioritise visitors to New Zealand, instead of tackling the urgent challenges facing Kiwis today. Nicola Willis doesn’t even know how many people will benefit from these changes or have an estimate as to how much our economy would grow.
“With rising rents, workforce shortages, and businesses crying out for more support, this announcement shows a lack of focus on the real issues affecting our economy.
“With one hand she’s begging foreigners to come here to work from home, while implementing strict policies on Kiwi public servants to stop them from doing the same.
“We need real long-term solutions for economic growth that provides the jobs of Kiwis, not a short-term sugar hit,” Barbara Edmonds said.
Covering period of Monday 27 – Thursday 30 January – MetService is forecasting a quieter weather day on Tuesday before another system sweeps across the South Island later in the day and into Wednesday, bringing rain and strong winds. Meanwhile, the North Island gets a reprieve from the muggy conditions of the past weekend, enjoying fresher air ahead of the next weather system later this week.
Following the devastating tornado in Mangawhai early on Sunday morning, Monday brought yet another day of unsettled weather for parts of Aotearoa New Zealand. Showers and thunderstorms were widespread in the east, with unseasonable snow falling in elevated parts of Canterbury, driven by a cold front moving northward. For regions marking Auckland Anniversary Day in the northern half of the North Island, the day was brighter and more settled.
This brighter weather extends across much of the country on Tuesday, thanks to a brief ridge of high pressure. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane explains, “After an active couple of days weather-wise, many may welcome a bright and sunny summer day. However, the odd shower may still pop up in the western South Island and upper North Island. Later in the afternoon, the next weather system begins to make its presence felt.”
From Tuesday afternoon, winds strengthen over the lower South Island as the approaching weather system brings the potential for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds. MetService has issued Strong Wind Watches from Fiordland to inland Canterbury for Tuesday late afternoon to Wednesday. Heavy Rain Watches are also in effect for Fiordland and the ranges of the Westland District, primarily overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday. In the eastern South Island, brief rain is expected on Wednesday as the weather system moves through, while conditions clear on Thursday, with lingering rain possible for Buller and Tasman. The rain reaches the lower North Island early Thursday, where it is expected to be for much of the day.
In the North Island, the muggy conditions of recent days are replaced by cooler, fresher air. Single-digit temperatures may greet some areas in the central and lower North Island on Tuesday morning. “I imagine the cooler temperatures will make sleeping a lot easier for many compared to these last few nights,” adds Makgabutlane. However, warm overnight temperatures return to the lower North Island towards the end of the working week.
Attributable to Sergeant Adam Elder, Alexandra Police:
A man is before the courts after the curtain was lifted on his cannabis growing operation in Roxburgh, Central Otago.
On Friday 17 January Police executed a search warrant at a Roxburgh house, and inside Police located five indoor tents which housed 12 mature cannabis plants.
Alongside the plants, a quantity of already dried-out cannabis was located packaged, which Police will allege was ready for distribution.
Three high-powered air rifles were also located at the address and have since been seized, as he was not permitted to be in possession of them.
A 55-year-old man has been charged with possession of cannabis for supply, cultivating cannabis, and possessing equipment to cultivate cannabis, and is due to reappear in the Alexandra District Court on Thursday 30 January.
In another search on the same day, at a different property in Roxburgh, Police located a large amount of drug paraphernalia, including utensils believed to be used for smoking methamphetamine, in a house bus. Inquiries are ongoing.
Police have been and will continue to work hard to identify and locate those involved in the illegal supply of drugs, and work with our community to address the underlying drivers of demand
If you have any information that may assist Police in identifying those involved in the illegal supply of drugs please contact Police.
You can contact us on 111 if it is happening now, or via 105 either online or over the phone.
Alternatively you can report information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Attributable to Detective Peter Smallfield, Invercargill Police:
Two young people are facing Youth Court in Invercargill after a series of burglaries in a stolen car overnight.
A Mazda vehicle was stolen from a Kingswell address in the early hours of the morning by two people, who later pulled up to a jewellers in the central city around 5am.
They have got out and attempted to smash the windows with a scooter, and when they were not able to gain entry, travelled to a service station in Newfield.
Again, they were not able to gain entry.
Stopping the vehicle on a street nearby, they have had an interaction with a member of the public, in which they have pretended to have a firearm with them in order to scare them away.
They have then travelled to a dairy in Winsdor, where they have managed to smash their way in.
The pair stole items including vapes, cash, and confectionery before getting back into the vehicle and driving a short distance away.
A Police dog unit has located the vehicle and tracked the occupants who had fled on foot, taking them into custody shortly after 6am.
Two young males were due in the Invercargill Youth Court today, appearing jointly on three charges of burglary, one of theft of a motor vehicle and one of being unlawfully in a closed yard.
This behaviour is incredibly frustrating for residents and business owners in our community, and it’s pleasing to have been able to immediately hold this pair to account.
We want to extend our thanks to the members of the public who observed suspicious behaviour and reported it to Police on 111 straight away, enabling the quick apprehension of the two youths.
It is also a reminder to take every precaution possible to help avoid becoming a victim of crime.
Remember to take property security measures with your vehicles – keep them inside a secure garage if possible, remove valuables, and consider a steering wheel lock. This all helps make your vehicle less desirable for opportunistic thieves.
