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Alibaba Cloud Announced the Latest AI Models, Tools and Infrastructure Available to Drive More Efficient Global AI Community

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Source: Media Outreach

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, has unveiled an expanded suite of large language models and AI development tools, upgraded infrastructure offerings, and new support programs for global developers at its annual developer summit today. These advancements aim to empower developers worldwide to build innovative AI applications more cost-effectively and drive a thriving global generative AI community.

“Alibaba Cloud is committed to delivering real value to global developers through cutting-edge AI models, enhanced cloud infrastructure, and accessible support programs,” said Dongliang Guo, Vice President of International Business, Head of International Products and Solutions, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence. “Together, we aim to spark more AI-driven innovations, benefiting startups, enterprises, and industries altogether across the globe.”

More Foundation Models and Development Tools for Developers
The latest Qwen models, Alibaba Cloud’s proprietary large language model family, including Qwen2.5 series with sizes ranging from 7billion to 72billion parameters, are now accessible via APIs on its generative AI development platform, Model Studio, for global developers to use. Additionally, multimodal AI models including vision understanding models such as Qwen-VL series, visual generation model Wanx2.1 (also known as Tongyi Wanxiang), and audio language model Qwen-Audio are also available for developers to access.

Developers can also leverage Tongyi Lingma, Alibaba Cloud’s proprietary AI coding assistant powered by the Qwen 2.5-coder model. The AI Programmer offers features such as code completion and optimization, debugging assistance, code snippet search and batch unit test generation. It provides developers with an efficient and seamless coding experience, significantly enhancing productivity and creativity.

In addition to a broader range of models, a slew of new AI development tools is also accessible by global developers on Model Studio. These tools include Workflow, which breaks down complex tasks into subtasks to enhance workflow control, and Agent, which supports multi-agent collaboration for planning and execution tasks. Other tools such as RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation), which helps enhance the accuracy and reliability of generative AI models with external sources; Batch Reasoning, which generates responses simultaneously with multiple prompt inputs; AutoEval (Automated Model Evaluation), as well as model deployment and application observability services will be available by end of this month.

Upgraded Infrastructure for AI Development
In order to provide robust computing to facilitate AI and other critical workloads, Alibaba Cloud revealed that its 9th Generation Enterprise Elastic Compute Service (ECS) instance will be available in global markets starting April this year. The latest generation of ECS instances has notable performance enhancements compared to its previous iteration, including a 20% increase in computing efficiency. Additionally, by accelerating networks through eRDMA (elastic Remote Direct Memory Access), its performance in supporting high-performance computing, search recommendations, and Redis databases can be further improved by up to 50%.

The cloud pioneer has also announced its innovative Alibaba Cloud Container Compute Service (ACS) is now available for international customers starting from January 2025. Designed for simplified and optimized workload deployment using container technology, the ACS integrates container services with underlying cloud computing resources, significantly reducing costs and technical complexity and enabling developers to focus on innovation rather than infrastructure management.

New GenAI Program to Spark Creativity
To foster innovation, Alibaba Cloud introduced the Alibaba Cloud GenAI Empowerment Program, a dedicated support program for global developers and startups leveraging its Qwen models to build generative AI applications. Participants in the program can gain support including free cloud credits, training workshops, invitation to tech shows and demo days, as well as product co-marketing opportunities. This program is designed to help developers and startups accelerate their generative AI projects while connecting with a broader ecosystem of innovators.

Global Developers and Customers Leveraging Qwen for Cutting-Edge Applications
Axcxept, a Japanese company specializing in AI products such as voice assistants, has developed an open-source, lightweight AI model called EZO based on Qwen 2.5 LLM. The EZO model outperforms state-of-the-art (SOTA) models in areas such as coding, information extraction, math, reasoning, roleplay, and writing in Japanese. With low latency and robust performance, EZO is tailored to serve industries such as healthcare and public institutions in Japan, ensuring secure and efficient AI applications.

“Qwen 2.5 has significantly enhanced its ability to process Japanese, giving it a competitive edge over other models. With Axcxept’s proprietary training process, we have developed a Japanese LLM that delivers unmatched accuracy,” said Kazuya Hodatsu, CEO of Axcxept Inc.

OxValue.AI, a deep-tech venture from the University of Oxford, uses Alibaba Cloud’s Qwen-based multimodal AI models for AI-driven company valuation services. By processing and analyzing text and audio data related to financing, R&D, and operations, OxValue achieves precise and cost-efficient valuation assessments tailored to corporate clients.

“Processing diverse data sources is essential for our valuation services. With the support of Alibaba Cloud’s AI models, we’ve significantly improved the quality and efficiency of this process. By collaborating with Alibaba Cloud, we’re able to deliver greater value to our corporate clients,” said Professor Xiaolan Fu, Founder of OxValue.AI.

Hashtag: #AlibabaCloud

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

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

Fatal crash: Egmont Road, New Plymouth

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Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police can now advise that one person has died following a crash on Egmont Road in Hillsborough earlier this afternoon.

The crash, involving two vehicles was reported to Police just after 2pm.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, the person died while being transported to hospital.

A second person was transported to hospital with serious injuries.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conduct a scene examination. Diversions are in place.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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Forecast postpones SH2 work just south of Wairoa

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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Tonight’s scheduled work on State Highway 2 between Ohinepaaka Stream / Waihua River has been postponed, due to forecast heavy rain.

The work was due to take place tonight and tomorrow night.

Crews have now rescheduled the overnight closures for tomorrow night (Wednesday 22 January), Thursday 23 January and Friday 24 January, 8pm to 5am each night.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi apologises for the short notice change and we want to thank road users and local community for their understanding.

As a result of the postponement, the road will be OPEN as normal tonight – please drive to the conditions.

For more details on the work:

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SH38 at Frasertown partially blocked following truck crash

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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A stretch of State Highway 38 near Wairoa is partially blocked following a truck crash this afternoon.

The crash has occurred near the intersection with Awamate Road at Frasertown and has blocked 1 lane.

Crews and emergency services are currently on site and the road is under stop/go traffic management

Please expect delays and drive to the conditions.

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Southbound closure planned next month for State Highway 1 Ngauranga Gorge

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Night works are planned early next month that will see State Highway 1 Ngauranga Gorge closed to southbound traffic between Johnsonville southbound offramp and Ngauranga Interchange.

The highway’s southbound lanes will be closed for two nights – Sunday, 2 February and Monday, 3 February, between 9 pm and 4:30 am.

Roxanne Hilliard, Wellington Transport Alliance Manager, says the middle lane of the highway is to be resurfaced.

“This is a steep section of the highway, where vehicles descend towards Wellington. It is not possible to safely keep other lanes open while we carry out work, so a full directional closure is needed to complete this work.”

“The closure will let us finish this work faster and, because it will be done at night when fewer vehicles are on the road, there will be less impact on drivers,” Ms Hilliard says.

A local detour will be available, and Ms Hilliard says it is important they are followed correctly.

“Light vehicles will be able to take the Johnsonville southbound offramp and detour to the city via Johnsonville, Khandallah, and the Ngaio Gorge. If you are travelling to the Hutt from SH1 you will need to take the SH58 detour via Transmission Gully.”“However, this route is not suitable for heavy vehicles because of a height restriction on the Johnsonville underpass. They must use State Highway 58 to Haywards Hill and State Highway2 Hutt Valley to get to the city. These detours are longer, so drivers should allow for extra travel time,” Ms Hilliard says.

She says while the two-night closure and detours will cause delays for drivers, it is essential the work is done. It is about keeping a critical and heavily used transport link safe and resilient for all road users,” Ms Hilliard says.

Works Schedule and Detour Routes:

  • Sunday, 2 February and Monday, 3 February. 9 pm – 4:30 am
  • Southbound closure SH1 Ngauranga Gorge between Johnsonville southbound offramp and Ngauranga Interchange.
  • Travelling to the Hutt from SH1, take the SH58 detour via TG.
  • Light vehicles detour via Johnsonville southbound offramp, Middleton Road, Johnsonville, Khandallah, and Ngaio Gorge. This route is not suitable for heavy vehicles.
  • Heavy vehicles must detour via SH58 Haywards and SH2 Hutt Valley.

View larger map [PDF, 344 KB]

More Information:

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Road blocked, SH 30, Kinleith

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Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

There are delays on State Highway 30 at Kinleith after logs spilled from a trailer that separated from a logging truck this afternoon.

The incident was reported about 3.55pm, and occurred between Ohakuri and Pukerimu roads. No injuries have been reported, but at least one vehicle has been damaged after hitting a log.

Motorists are advised to expect delays while the scene is cleared.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

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Study options on display at EIT Tairāwhiti Info and Enrolment Day | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

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Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

5 minutes ago

EIT Tairāwhiti is gearing up to welcome prospective students to its Info and Enrolment Day this week, offering an opportunity to explore the diverse range of study options available.

The event will be held on Thursday, January 23, from 9am to 6pm, at the EIT Tairāwhiti Campus in Gisborne, giving attendees the chance to connect with tutors, student advisors, and support staff.

EIT provides a variety of qualifications, from certificates and diplomas to degrees and postgraduate programmes, with flexible study options including full-time and part-time learning.

EIT Tairāwhiti will be holding an information and enrolment day on Thursday, 23 January 2025.

Campus Manager Waata Shepherd says the event is a great opportunity for the community to explore their options and take a step toward their future.

“This day is all about helping people of all ages find the right study path—whether they’re looking to upskill, switch careers, or take on a new challenge,” he says.

Waata says that EIT is proud to offer programmes that cater to a wide range of interests and career pathways.

“We are unique in offering a full range of qualifications, from certificates to postgraduate level, with flexible study options to suit different lifestyles. Studying with us allows students to stay close to their whānau and community while gaining high-quality qualifications, such as the Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts through Toihoukura.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to take a campus tour, meet tutors, and speak with student advisors to learn how EIT can support their educational goals.

For more information, visit EIT Tairāwhiti’s Facebook and Instagram pages, or call 0800 CALL EIT.

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CUHK Business School: Six Decades of Excellence in Global Business Education

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Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School, Asia’s pioneer in business education, continues to shape the future of global business leadership while celebrating its rich legacy of innovation since 1963.

The CUHK Business School sustains its leading position by leveraging innovative curriculum design and forging an international class mix.

Pioneering Business Education

As Asia’s first business school to offer BBA, MBA and EMBA programmes, CUHK Business School has built an influential network of over 45,000 alumni — Hong Kong’s largest business school alumni community. The School maintains its position through innovative curriculum design and robust industry partnerships. Our Faculty members and research centres advance and promote cross-disciplinary knowledge, creating value for the region and the world by driving the development of global business.

Additionally, the School’s strong relationships with enterprises across Greater China and beyond provide students with invaluable real-world experience through internships, consultancy projects, and experiential learning opportunities, preparing them for leadership roles in the dynamic Asian business landscape.

International Partnerships and Opportunities

CUHK Business School has forged strategic partnerships with prestigious institutions worldwide, including dual degree programmes with HEC Paris, Rotterdam School of Management, and The University of Texas at Austin. These collaborations offer students unparalleled international exposure and cross-cultural business insights.

Through dynamic learning experiences, CUHK Business Master’s students can broaden their global perspectives and cultivate valuable networks, fostering professional growth.

The School’s global impact is exemplified through its diverse student body. Aleksandr Volkov, a MSc in Management student from Russia, highlights the programme’s practical curriculum: “The interactive teaching style and collaborative environment at CUHK perfectly prepare students for multinational corporate careers.” He also embraces this opportunity to learn more about the China market, leveraging CUHK’s alumni network for insights to guide his future business decisions.

Investment in Excellence

The School offers comprehensive financial support through merit-based scholarships and various financial aid options for both local and international students. For more information and the complete programme listing, visit www.gs.cuhk.edu.hk/ba.

Hashtag: #CUHK

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

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

“Feisty” injured Whanganui kiwi returns home

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  21 January 2025

The bird was struck between Whanganui and Raetihi on 20 November last year.

The driver reported the incident to the Department of Conservation and transported the injured bird to Wildbase Hospital, Tāwharau Ora Massey University where the young male was found to have respiratory issues and a fractured pelvis.

DOC Biodiversity Ranger Kelly Brider says the bird was alert and feisty throughout his recovery.

“We think that liveliness helped him to power through his rehabilitation, he was well and truly ready to go home!”

“We want to acknowledge the driver for doing the right thing, even going above and beyond to transport the kiwi to safety herself.

“We are also grateful for the continued work of Wildbase Hospital staff caring for and rehabilitating our special species.”

The kiwi, gifted the name ‘Tairei’ by members of hapū Whaikiterangi, was released on 10 January away from the road in the area he was found, with multiple generations of whānau present.

Kuia Karina Williams says the name is linked to the land.

“We gifted him the whānau name Tairei, which goes back to our great, great grandfather, I know our tūpuna will watch over him.”

Kelly says the bird was found near a wetland and retired farmland – bushy parts of  Ātihau Whanganui Incorporation land.

“They have predator control in some areas and are increasing their efforts. It all works toward creating a safe space for kiwi to thrive.”

Brown kiwi are listed as Not Threatened – Conservation Dependent, with numbers in Whanganui National Park and surrounding areas projected to grow by 1000 in the next few years.

“This success is thanks to landscape-scale predator control and community trapping programmes, along with increasing efforts by private landowners,” says Kelly.

“Tairei is a reminder that we are lucky to share this part of Aotearoa with these special birds and to take care and watch out for kiwi when driving.”

Anyone coming across an injured or killed kiwi should report it to 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Background information

People and kiwi: Find out how you can help kiwi, including advice for dog owners, drivers and reporting incidents.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

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CN Logistics Launches Regular Charter Flights Between Ezhou, China and Milan, Italy

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Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – A well-established international logistics solutions provider, CN Logistics International Holdings Limited (the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”, stock code: 2130) is pleased to announce the launch of regular international charter flights between Ezhou, Hubei Province, China and Milan, Italy on 19 January. This service provides enhanced logistics solutions for import-export businesses between the two regions, marking another milestone for CN Express air charter transport solutions.

The first flight of the “Ezhou-Milan” route was operated by a Boeing 767 freighter operated by Georgian Gio Air. Mr. Lau Shek Yau, Founder, Chairman and Executive Director of CN Logistics and Cargo Service Group, Mr. Fang Meng, Deputy General Manager of Wuhan Financial Holdings, General Manager and Vice Chairman of Changjiang River International Trade and Mr. You Jun, Chairman of Huahu Supply Chain attended the inaugural ceremony at Ezhou Huahu International Airport on January 19.

The newly launched charter service is a crucial part of the strategic partnership with Wuhan Financial Holdings Changmao Group Limited (“Wuhan Financial Holdings”) and Hubei International Logistics Airport Limited (“Hubei International Logistics”). According to the agreement, the Group will utilize its airfreight forwarding network to provide 2 to 3 charter flights between Ezhou and Milan per week to prominent Chinese eCommerce platforms and various large enterprises, covering multi-sectors including eCommerce, high-tech electronic products, industrial products, high-end and affordable luxury clothing and red wine. This aims to foster bilateral trade while helping business in expanding overseas operation by reducing costs and improving efficiency. Building upon the “Ezhou-Milan” route, the Group and the Partners plan to gradually extend services coverage to other European countries and the Middle East and African regions, with long-term plans to establish joint warehouses in these regions to facilitate the exchange of quality products with Ezhou.

Mr. Lau Shek Yau, Chairman and Executive Director of CN Logistics, said “We are honored to collaborate with Wuhan Financial Holdings and Hubei International Logistics to promote Ezhou’s external trade exchanges and build a business ecosystem that benefits the society across multiple industries and regions. Bolstered by its strategic location, Ezhou has become the hub for China’s eCommerce and logistics industries. On the grand day of departure, we witnessed the efficient processing capabilities of Ezhou Huahu Airport, which completed all aspects of customs clearance, cargo loading, and takeoff in a short time. We believe launching the Milan route is just the first step. With the support of our Partners, CN Logistics will launch more routes connecting Ezhou with other regions, particularly the Middle East and Africa. This will enable the Group to achieve synergies with our parent company providing customers with competitive and efficient logistics solutions while rapidly expanding our business presence in the Middle East and African regions.”

https://www.linkedin.com/company/cnlogisticslimited/
https://www.facebook.com/cnlogisticslimited/
https://www.instagram.com/cn_logistics/

Hashtag: #CNLogistics

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

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