Category: Asia Pacific

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Man sexually abused by priest ‘appalled’ police weren’t notified by church

Source: Radio New Zealand

Former St Bede’s College Friar Rowan Donoghue arrives at the Christchurch District Court for an appearance on January 28. Nathan McKinnon / RNZ

A man who was sexually abused by a priest says he’s “appalled” police were not notified the priest had admitted abuse to leaders of his religious order nearly 20 years ago.

He said he expected authorities to be told of all other members of the order who admitted child sex offences.

RNZ earlier revealed Fr Rowan Donoghue had admitted six charges including indecent assault on a boy aged 12-16, indecent assault on a boy 16 and over and sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection.

The offending related to four boys who were boarding at St Bede’s College in Christchurch between 1996 and 2000.

Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

In response to questions by RNZ, a Society of Mary spokesperson said a complaint alleging offending by Donoghue was received by the priest via an anonymous Hotmail account in October 2007.

“He advised Society of Mary administration and in a conversation with leaders of the Society of Mary, Donoghue admitted that he was guilty of abuse but could not identify the complainant.

“He was removed from his ministry as a priest immediately. This permanent removal from ministry and subsequent ongoing monitoring has continued to the present day.”

The spokesperson said the society reached out to the anonymous emailer “encouraging him to identify himself” and make a complaint to the police so the matter might be properly investigated, and so that he might receive appropriate support.

“Those attempts to connect with and support the victim, made over many months, were unsuccessful and so no complaint could be made by the Society to the police.

“Donoghue was sent for a six-month programme to Encompass, an institute in Australia that provided professional risk assessment and therapy for those accused of sexual abuse.”

One of the men who was sexually abused by Donoghue at St Bede’s College said he was shocked by the revelations.

The offending happened at St Bede’s College. (File photo) Google Maps

“I’m appalled to hear an admission from the church/Society of Mary, that they not only knew about Rowan’s offending, but also had a direct admission of guilt from him too.

“And instead of notifying authorities, chose to send him for ‘re-education’. It shows, as an organisation they are wholly complicit when it comes to their members having offended against children.”

The man said he expected authorities “to be told of all other members who admitted child sex offences”.

Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons earlier said police were unable to comment on processes of other organisations and their decision making and whether they decide to call the police but that police encouraged people to do so if they have information they believe could be relevant to any investigation or suspected offending.

St Bede’s College rector Jon McDowall earlier said the details outlined through the court process were “deeply disturbing”.

“As rector, it makes me feel sick to think that young people entrusted to an adult’s care were abused in this way. I am deeply sorry that this happened to them, and my thoughts are with the victims and survivors who continue to live with the impact of that harm.”

McDowall said the school had worked openly with police throughout the process.

“We will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities should any further information come to light.

“Abuse has no place at St Bede’s – past, present, or future. The college has an established policy in place to respond and support victims of historical abuse, alongside safeguarding policies and practices to protect the wellbeing and safety of students today. Our focus remains on providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community.”

McDowall extended an open invitation for victims in the case, and others who may have been impacted, or anyone with concerns to contact him directly.

In early 2023, police were contacted about the allegations of sexual abuse by Donoghue in relation to his time at St Bede’s College.

St Patrick’s Silverstream rector Rob Ferreira said the school had not been made aware of any allegations of abuse in care while Donoghue worked at the school between 1982 to 1992.

“We have not had any inquiries from the police either.

“We operate according to clearly set out guidelines and best practice and you should note that our primary concern is the wellbeing of our students. Given that – our protection of the privacy and any other rights of survivors of abuse and other individuals would be paramount.”

He said the school had informed the community that Donoghue’s name suppression had lifted.

St Patrick’s College Wellington rector Mike Savali confirmed Donoghue was on the college staff from 2003 to 2007.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/man-sexually-abused-by-priest-appalled-police-werent-notified-by-church/

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Government funds and delivers new school in 18 months

Source: New Zealand Government

The first new school announced by the Government is open from today in Flat Bush following a blessing this morning, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.

“A new school is an exciting start for the school community and it was a pleasure to visit Te Kura Rau Iti this morning. Flat Bush is a fast-growing suburb and this school, with a capacity for 700 students, will provide for local families heading into the future,” Ms Stanford says.

The new school for Years 0 to 6 has come in on time and under budget, making use of the Government’s new approach which has reduced the cost of a classroom while still retaining high-quality specifications for the build.

“We have proven that we can provide repeatable designs for schools in a way that both ensures students are getting quality, and taxpayers’ money is used responsibly,” Ms Stanford says.

“The new school is also free from the unpopular, large barnyard-style classrooms that we promised to address. These weren’t working for students and they weren’t working for teachers.”

The new school has:

  • 30 teaching spaces with flexible art spaces
  • A library, hall, and administration spaces
  • Two hardcourts, and junior and senior playgrounds.
  • A school field, available in March.

The new school is a repeatable design, based on Ahutoetoe School, Brookfields School, and Te Pae School which is currently in construction. The school design also includes space for further roll growth when required. The total build is $41 million.

Ms Stanford says the school will also provide the Learning Support initiatives that are rolling out from Term One through the Government’s $746.7 million Learning Support investment. 

“We are supporting our children to get the support they need with their learning whether they’re needing to catch up, get more help, or have specific learning needs. As part of the next phase for the school in the future, there is also a planned learning support satellite unit.”

Local MP for Takanini, Rima Nakhle, says the school’s opening is fantastic progress that responds to Flat Bush’s growth, relieving pressure on nearby schools. 

“Locals have been seeing significant growth in Flat Bush, and Te Kura Rau Iti has been built to respond to that. The opening of the school today is another step in ensuring our community has high-quality learning spaces for our children heading into the future,” Ms Nakhle says.

“This is a great example of delivery in action. We are committed to fixing the basics and building for the future, and today is another step in delivering the funding and resources required to build a world-leading education system.”

“I wish the school team and the community the absolute very best in learning and success in their new school. This is an exciting start for everyone and I look forward to seeing the school’s progress,” Ms Stanford says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/government-funds-and-delivers-new-school-in-18-months/

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Zuellig Pharma Strengthens Consumer Healthcare Portfolio with the Acquisition of Zam-Buk® and Vapex® Brands from Bayer

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – Zuellig Pharma, a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, today announced that it has acquired all rights, title, and interest in and to the Zam-Buk® and Vapex® consumer healthcare brands from Bayer Consumer Care AG for Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.

Zam-Buk® is an ointment used for the temporary relief of pain and itch, including discomfort from insect bites. First launched in 1902, Zam-Buk® has retained strong brand equity over the decades and is widely perceived as a trusted household brand. Vapex® is a nasal inhaler used to help relieve nasal congestion. Launched in 1917, Vapex® has built meaningful brand recognition, particularly in Thailand.

The acquisition of the brands supports Zuellig Pharma’s strategic priority to strengthen and scale its consumer healthcare portfolio across Asia. It also marks the company’s second consumer healthcare acquisition, following Propan in the Philippines, reinforcing its focus on building a strong commercial platform for trusted, everyday healthcare products in the region.

“This acquisition marks another significant growth milestone for our consumer healthcare product portfolio. Zam-Buk® and Vapex® are enduring brands with deep heritage and trust in the communities they serve. By combining the brands’ legacy with Zuellig Pharma’s regional commercial capabilities and local market expertise, we aim to expand distribution and access across all relevant retail channels in the region. In doing so, these brands will continue to remain relevant, easy to find, and accessible to consumers.” said John Graham, CEO of Zuellig Pharma.

https://www.zuelligpharma.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/zuellig-pharma

Hashtag: #ZuelligPharma #ConsumerHealthcare #ConsumerHealth #Healthcare #Pharmaceuticals #Zambuk #Vapex #Bayer

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/zuellig-pharma-strengthens-consumer-healthcare-portfolio-with-the-acquisition-of-zam-buk-and-vapex-brands-from-bayer/

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Dedicated dialysis service opens in Invercargill

Source: New Zealand Government

Southland’s new dialysis unit has officially opened, improving access to life-saving treatment for patients across Invercargill and the wider Southland region, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. 

“The opening of this new unit at Southland Hospital is a significant step forward for renal care in the South,” Mr Brown says.

“Until now, many Southlanders have had to travel to Dunedin three times a week for dialysis – a 2.5-hour journey each way. This new facility means more people can receive the care they need closer to home.”

The purpose-built unit features five haemodialysis spaces to treat outpatients and eligible inpatients from across the hospital, along with a dedicated area for peritoneal dialysis training and follow-up care.

“In time, the unit will also support training for patients who wish to undertake home haemodialysis, giving people greater independence and flexibility in managing their treatment.”

Previously, dialysis services in Invercargill were delivered from a space originally intended as an ‘away-from-home’ facility for visitors, before growing demand saw it accommodate some regular dialysis patients. 

“With demand increasing, a fit-for-purpose dialysis service in Southland became essential. This new unit increases the number of dialysis chairs from two to five, improving access for patients.”

Initially, the expanded service is expected to support six to eight haemodialysis patients each week, with numbers projected to grow over the next six months.

“For patients and their families, dialysis isn’t just a treatment – it’s part of everyday life. Being able to receive that care locally reduces stress, keeps people connected to family and community, and supports better long-term health.

“This new facility is about making sure Southlanders can receive the care they need, closer to home,” Mr Brown says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/dedicated-dialysis-service-opens-in-invercargill/

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International Entertainment Corporation to Hold EGM on 26 February 2026 for Proposed Convertible Notes Issuance

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – International Entertainment Corporation (the “Company“, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group“; HKEX stock code: 1009) will hold an extraordinary general meeting (the “EGM”) on 26 February 2026 at 11:00 a.m. for shareholders to vote on resolutions related to the proposed issuance of up to HK$1.6 billion convertible notes (the “Notes“) to DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (the “Subscriber“) (Philippine Stock Exchange stock symbol: PLUS).

DigiPlus Interactive Corp., named as one of the Fortune Southeast Asia 500, together with its subsidiaries, is an innovative digital entertainment group in the Philippines and is a leader in the casinos and gaming industry. On 17 November 2025, the Company entered into the Subscription Agreement with the Subscriber, pursuant to which the Company conditionally agreed to issue and the Subscriber conditionally agreed to subscribe for the Notes in two tranches with a maturity of five years and an interest rate of 3% per annum.

Upon full conversion of the Notes at the initial Conversion Price, a total of 1,600,000,000 Shares will be issued by the Company, representing approximately 53.89% of the issued share capital of the Company as enlarged by the issue and allotment of the Conversion Shares. As such, the Subscriber will be obliged to make a mandatory general offer pursuant to Rule 26.1 of the Takeovers Code, unless the Whitewash Waiver is granted and approved.

The initial Conversion Price of HK$1.00 per Conversion Share represents a discount of approximately 3.85% to the closing price of HK$1.04 per Share as quoted on the Stock Exchange on the Latest Practicable Date (6 February 2026).

The board of Directors (the “Board“) believes that the Subscription would be beneficial to improving and strengthening the Group’s liquidity and financial position on a longer-term basis. In the event that the Subscriber converts part or the full amount of the Notes into the Conversion Shares, it will also broaden the shareholder and capital base of the Company. The Group intends to apply part of the net proceeds raised from the issuance of the Notes of approximately HK$489.22 million for the early repayment of the Promissory Notes and interest accrued thereon (the “PN Repayment“), and approximately HK$392.39 million to early repay the Secured Bank Borrowing to achieve immediate interest savings.

The remaining net proceeds will primarily be used for funding the Investment Commitment and attractive investment/business opportunity(ies); and as general working capital of the Group. The Investment Commitment is currently expected to include capital investments for acquisition of land for the expansion of the Group’s integrated resort in Manila City in the Philippines (the ”Hotel”) and the construction of additional hotel rooms, for provision of other amenities of the integrated resort, and for ongoing upgrades, refurbishments and renovations to the facilities and infrastructures of both the Hotel and the Group’s existing casino (the “Casino“).

The Independent Board Committee, which comprises all the independent non-executive Directors, is of the opinion that (i) the terms of the Subscription Agreement are on normal commercial terms, and the terms of the Subscription, the Whitewash Waiver and the Special Deal (the PN Repayment to the PN Holder) are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned; and (ii) the Subscription, the Whitewash Waiver and the Special Deal are in the interests of the Company and the Shareholders as a whole and as far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned. It, therefore, recommends the Independent Shareholders to vote in favour of the relevant resolution(s) to be proposed at the EGM.

Hashtag: #InternationalEntertainmentCorporation

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/international-entertainment-corporation-to-hold-egm-on-26-february-2026-for-proposed-convertible-notes-issuance/

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NZ-AU: Hinen Brings Next-Generation All-in-One Energy Storage to Solar & Storage Live UK 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom, Sept. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hinen, a global provider of smart residential energy storage solutions, will exhibit at Solar & Storage Live UK 2025, the UK’s leading renewable energy and storage exhibition. The event runs from 23–25 September 2025 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. Visitors can find Hinen at Booth C24.

Backed by over 20 years of advanced manufacturing experience, Hinen is publicly listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (stock code: 300787) and serves as a trusted OEM/ODM partner for more than 400 global brands. What sets Hinen apart is its vertically integrated supply chain, covering battery cell production, inverter R&D, and full system assembly — ensuring high quality, innovation, and cost efficiency.

With offices and service teams across Europe, the UK, Australia, and Africa, Hinen combines global technology with local support. The company is rapidly expanding in Europe after becoming a Top 5 residential storage brand in Australia. Its mission is simple: deliver reliable, intelligent, and affordable clean energy to households worldwide.

At Solar & Storage Live UK 2025, Hinen will debut three All-in-One residential energy storage systems designed to meet the UK’s fast-growing solar market. With over 1.5 million UK homes already fitted with rooftop PV and strong government targets for renewable adoption, demand for integrated solar-plus-storage is rising rapidly. Hinen’s new A Series products address these needs with flexible sizing, quick installation, and strong backup capabilities.

  • Hinen H5S (5kW Single-phase All-in-One System) – Compact and ideal for standard UK households. Features a stackable plug & play design, 200% oversized PV input (max. 10kW), ≤10ms transfer time, and intelligent load management. Perfect for homeowners seeking both efficiency and backup security.
  • Hinen H15S (15kW Single-Phase All-in-One System) — Designed for large households and high-energy consumption families. Equipped with 4 MPPTs and dual power inputs (grid + generator), it offers enhanced EPS overload capacity with 16.5kW peak power (10s) to safeguard appliances from unexpected power interruptions during load surges. It enables whole-home backup, meeting UK users’ needs for energy independence and reliability.
  • Hinen H25T (25kW Three-phase All-in-One System) – A small C&I solution for villas, farms, or light commercial sites. Features ultra-wide 120–600V battery range, 20kW charge/discharge, 100% three-phase unbalanced output, and flexible phase sequence installation. Provides robust backup and scalable clean energy supply for businesses.

Beyond the A Series, Hinen will also showcase:

  • H6000-EU Hybrid Inverter + B5000/BP5000 Low-voltage Batteries, a popular residential pairing in the UK.
  • S1-100 Smart Box, supporting up to 23kW whole-home backup, 100A rated current,
  • E Series H2.4S (Balcony Energy System), compact plug-and-play design, ideal for UK flats and small homes. Scalable up to 15.36kWh for flexible household needs. IP65 weatherproof with safe LiFePO₄ battery (10-year warranty).

Visitors to Booth C24 will see how Hinen’s solutions empower UK homeowners and businesses to maximize solar generation, ensure reliable backup, and lower energy bills — making the transition to clean energy both practical and future-ready.

Contact:
nikita@hinen.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d28921e-96d2-41f0-bb0f-51e2658ef688

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-hinen-brings-next-generation-all-in-one-energy-storage-to-solar-storage-live-uk-2025-2/

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NZ-AU: Brazilian Rare Earths Achieves Exceptional Ore Sorting Results at Monte Alto

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

SYDNEY, Feb. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brazilian Rare Earths Limited (ASX: BRE / OTCQX: BRELY) (‘BRE’) is pleased to report exceptional results from sensor-based ore sorting test work program that confirms its suitability for Monte Alto’s beneficiation process flowsheet. 

Key Highlights

  • Exceptional grade enrichment (+100%): Achieved grade upgrade factors of >2x, increasing feed grades from 12.4% TREO to ~27% TREO, using multi-sensor ore sorting
  • High-grade product in single-pass: Produced a +27% TREO ultra-high grade product with single-pass processing
  • World-class recoveries (95%): Cascade ore sorting produced a +20% TREO rare earth product, with exceptional cumulative recoveries of ~96–99% and upgrade factors of 1.3x-1.7x
  • Efficient waste rejection: Successfully rejected ~25% of feed mass as waste with negligible rare earth loss (
  • Simple, dry beneficiation: Results validate ore sorting for Monte Alto mineralisation – delivering a high-grade product at yields of +95%, highlighting the potential for downstream direct rare earth extraction
  • Lower costs: Lower capex and operating costs, with enhanced economics

BRE Managing Director and CEO, Bernardo da Veiga, commented:

“These exceptional ore sorting results from run-of-mine Monte Alto feedstock have exceeded all our expectations. They demonstrate that sensor-based concentration can significantly enhance project economics with +95% yields at lower capital and operating costs, whilst simultaneously reducing environmental footprint through lower energy, minimal water and no reagents.

Our metallurgical programs are designed to maximise the value of Monte Alto’s ultra-high grade rare earth, uranium, scandium, niobium, and tantalum mineralisation. These ore sorting results build on our previous metallurgical programs with the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) and provide a pathway for world-leading mineral-to-product yields.

Last year’s metallurgical program with ANSTO successfully demonstrated direct hydrometallurgical processing of high-grade Monte Alto mineralisation, including impurity removal, uranium recovery and the production of high-purity mixed rare earth carbonate.

Importantly, the multi-sensor ore sorter enriched run-of-mine Monte Alto feedstock by over two times in a single pass, producing a concentrate of +27% TREO. Subsequent cumulative ore sorter runs produced a +20% TREO concentrate at very high total recoveries of 96-99%.

Rare earth projects are typically characterised by low head grades and complex, high-cost processing flowsheets. Monte Alto’s ultra-high grades can deliver a beneficiated product at grades that are suitable for direct hydrometallurgical processing. BRE will now progress flowsheet design, targeting a multi-sensor system capable of processing 100% of Monte Alto’s run-of-mine material at +95% yields.”

A link to the full release can be found here.

Contacts

Bernardo Da Veiga, Managing Director and CEO

investors@brazilianrareearths.com
https://brazilianrareearths.com/

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-brazilian-rare-earths-achieves-exceptional-ore-sorting-results-at-monte-alto/

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GMA Capital Partners Joins Hong Kong’s Business Environment Council

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – GMA Capital Partners has joined the Business Environment Council (BEC), reflecting the firm’s engagement with Hong Kong’s business and sustainability ecosystem and its interest in constructive dialogue on environmental and policy developments affecting the real economy.

Headquartered in Singapore, GMA Capital Partners is a principal investment firm focused on long-term investments, structured capital solutions, and cross-border partnerships across real-economy sectors, including infrastructure, energy transition, logistics, and strategic industrial markets. Membership in BEC provides a platform for engagement with corporates, policymakers, and industry participants on environmental considerations relevant to business operations and long-term asset resilience in Hong Kong and the region.

Established in 1992, BEC is an independent, business-led organisation that promotes environmental excellence through policy advocacy, thought leadership, and knowledge sharing. Its membership comprises multinational companies, listed entities, SMEs, startups, and non-governmental organisations across a broad range of industries.

Chasen Nevett, Managing Partner of GMA Capital Partners, said:

“Joining the Business Environment Council provides a constructive platform to engage with Hong Kong’s business community on practical environmental and sustainability considerations. Our focus remains on disciplined capital allocation into real-economy assets, where regulatory context, governance, and long-term environmental factors increasingly shape commercial outcomes.”

GMA Capital Partners’ approach to sustainability emphasises commercial discipline, transparency, and the consideration of transition-related risks and opportunities relevant to long-term asset performance. The firm looks forward to engaging with BEC initiatives and contributing to dialogue on environmental policy and sustainable business practices in Hong Kong and across the region.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/gma-capital-partners-joins-hong-kongs-business-environment-council/

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Swiss-Belhotel International Strengthening Its Luxury Brands in Batam, Indonesia

Source: Media Outreach

BATAM, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – Swiss-Belhotel International continues to accelerate its expansion in Indonesia’s island tourism sector with the recent signing of two new resort management agreements: Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel. The move underscores the group’s long-term commitment to developing high-end, sustainable hospitality products across the archipelago.

From left: Director of PT Dewi Citra Kencana and PT. Tritunas Sinar Benua – Mr Tommy Ho, Commissioner PT. Tritunas Sinar Benua – Mr Jimmi Ho, Owner of Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel, and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel – Mr Hartono, Swiss-Belhotel International Executive Director and Senior Vice President of Information Technology, Ecommerce and Distribution – Mr Matthew Faull, Regional Director of Operations and Development for Indonesia – Mr Fabrice Mini.

The first property, Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel, will offer an intimate eco-luxury experience in Batam, featuring villas with private pools and suites, several of which boast balconies and direct access to the pool. A key highlight is its Wellness Centre, equipped with thalasso therapy, which offers a rare and premium wellness experience in the region.

The second project, located in Nirup Island, Batam, will present a refined villa-style escape designed for families, groups, and long-stay guests. The property will comprise villas, available in two, three, and four-bedroom types, all equipped with private pools, thereby reinforcing the resort’s positioning as a luxury enclave within the Riau Islands.

Mr Hartono, Owner of Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel, expressed strong confidence in this partnership, “We are pleased to collaborate with Swiss-Belhotel International in bringing these developments to life. Their operational expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality guest experiences give us full confidence that both Māua Kapal Kecil and Villa Riahi will set new benchmarks for luxury hospitality in Batam. We believe these properties will contribute significantly to the region’s tourism growth and provide exceptional value for guests seeking exclusivity, comfort, and nature-inspired experiences in the wider Riau Islands as they continue to evolve into leading regional tourism hubs.”

Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President, emphasized the significance of the company’s continued growth in Indonesia. “These new signings reflect our ongoing commitment to expanding Swiss-Belhotel International’s presence in key island destinations. Batam’s rising potential as a luxury getaway aligns perfectly with our vision to deliver world-class hospitality experiences that unite sustainability, comfort, and authentic local charm. We are proud to further strengthen our portfolio in Indonesia, one of our most important and fastest-growing markets.”

Matthew Faull, Executive Director and Senior Vice President of Information Technology, E-commerce and Distribution, highlighted the momentum of the group’s development pipeline across the country: “Indonesia remains a central pillar of our development strategy, and the addition of these two exceptional properties demonstrates the strong confidence of owners in our brands. The progress we are making—from eco-luxury concepts like Māua to premium villa destinations such as Villa Riahi—marks an exciting phase of our growth in this region.”

The addition of Māua Kapal Kecil and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel highlights the group’s strategy to enhance Batam’s appeal as a premier luxury island destination, supporting Indonesia’s tourism growth.

Māua by Swiss-Belhotel is a 5-star eco-luxury hospitality brand inspired by the ancestral wisdom of Māori culture, rooted in the values of whenua (respect for the land), mauri (life force), and kotahitanga (togetherness). Meaning “togetherness” in Te Reo Māori, Māua represents a philosophy of harmony between people and nature, guiding the brand’s approach to sustainable design, wellness-led experiences, and conscious luxury living. This ethos is symbolised by the andesite stone carving at the Faull family’s heritage farm in New Zealand, reflecting a deep, personal connection to the land and a commitment to preserving balance, authenticity, and meaningful human connection across every Māua destination.

SBEC Loyalty Programme: Enjoy 10%-35% OFF on Rooms, Dining and other services at 150+ hotels globally by becoming an SBEC loyalty member. Sign up for FREE.

https://www.swiss-belhotel.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/swiss-belhotel-international
https://www.facebook.com/swissbelhotel
https://www.instagram.com/swissbelhotel

Hashtag: #SwissBelhotelInternational #luxuryresort #islandresort #islandluxuryresort #islandtourism #batamtourism

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/swiss-belhotel-international-strengthening-its-luxury-brands-in-batam-indonesia/

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NZ-AU: Innovation Beverage Group Provides Business Update Highlighting Energy Expansion and Proposed Merger with BlockFuel Energy

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Oklahoma energy asset acquisition, UAE digital asset mining MOU with Greenbelt Industries, and equity financing from Aegis Capital advance integrated energy and infrastructure strategy

IBG and BlockFuel continue to progress toward completion of previously announced merger, expected to close by end of Q1 2026 pending Nasdaq listing approval

SYDNEY, Jan. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innovation Beverage Group Ltd (“IBG” or “the Company”) (Nasdaq: IBG), an innovative developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, today provided a business update highlighting progress across several strategic initiatives tied to its proposed merger with BlockFuel Energy Inc. (“BlockFuel”). These developments include energy asset acquisitions, international digital infrastructure development, financing activity, and merger-related milestones.

“Today’s business update reflects continued momentum as we work toward completing our proposed combination with BlockFuel Energy,” said Sahil Beri, Chief Executive Officer of Innovation Beverage Group. “We believe the recent operational and strategic developments at BlockFuel underscore the opportunity to create a publicly traded platform with exposure to energy production and digital infrastructure. We remain focused on navigating the remaining regulatory and closing steps to finalize the transaction.”

“Over the past several months, we have made meaningful progress executing on our strategy across energy production, power infrastructure and digital asset development,” said Daniel Lanskey, Chief Executive Officer of BlockFuel Energy. “The completion of the Oklahoma asset acquisition and the signing of our joint venture MOU in the UAE reflect our focus on building a diversified, vertically integrated energy platform as we advance toward the completion of our proposed merger with Innovation Beverage Group.”

Acquisition of Oil and Gas Production Assets in Oklahoma
BlockFuel has completed the acquisition of oil and gas production assets located in the state of Oklahoma, marking a key step in the execution of its vertically integrated energy strategy. The acquired portfolio includes forty-six (46) previously producing horizontal oil and gas wells and eight (8) saltwater disposal wells with surface facilities. The wells are situated across approximately 30,000 acres, with BlockFuel Energy now owning the majority working interest (~86%) and net revenue interest (~70%) in the wells.

The aggregate purchase price was $12.5 million, comprised of cash paid at closing, seller-financed considerations payable under an amortized note bearing interest, and $3.7 million payable in shares of the Company’s common stock. The shares are to be issued on or before April 1, 2026, at a price equal to a 15% discount to the five-day volume-weighted average price prior to issuance.

Following the closing on December 24, 2025, BlockFuel assumed operational control of the oil field assets on December 26 and initiated the process of restoring production. Initial oil sales are underway, and assets generated from these sales are expected to play an important role in supporting BlockFuel’s energy-backed digital infrastructure initiatives while generating near-term operational activity.

An update on production and well status will be made at the end of February 2026.

Natural Gas Power Generation and Launch of Digital Asset Mining Initiative in Oklahoma
BlockFuel has started planning and initial deployment activities are underway to integrate on-site natural gas–fueled power generation with digital asset mining operations across BlockFuel’s Oklahoma asset base. As natural gas production is progressively brought back online, BlockFuel is evaluating the phased commissioning of approximately 6 megawatts of modular generation capacity at select well sites.

This infrastructure is designed to utilize associated natural gas at the wellhead – including stranded, flared, and saleable gas – to support the development of energy-backed digital infrastructure alongside ongoing oil and natural gas liquids production. BlockFuel believes this strategy has the potential to enhance revenue and improve asset-level economics by monetizing natural gas through on-site power generation, with the capacity to mine up to approximately 4.5 bitcoin per month.

Joint Venture MOU with Greenbelt Industries for UAE Digital Asset Mining Project
BlockFuel has entered a binding memorandum of understanding with Greenbelt Industries LLC, a UAE-based energy generation company with proprietary biofuel manufacturing technology and integrated core production plants, to develop and operate a digital asset mining facility in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

The parties intend to form a three-year project-specific joint venture combining Greenbelt’s regulatory licenses, infrastructure, and biofuel-based power generation systems with BlockFuel’s ASIC mining equipment and operational expertise. The project is designed to deliver scalable, energy-efficient and fully compliant digital asset mining operations in the Middle East.

Ownership of the joint venture will be split 50.75% to Greenbelt and 49.25% to BlockFuel, with shared governance through a six-member board of directors. Per the agreement, BlockFuel will be responsible for installation, commission and maintenance of all mining equipment and operations at the site, while Greenbelt will manage business administration and provide power supply and generation services.

Equity Financing Activity with Aegis Capital Corp.
BlockFuel has completed an equity financing led by Aegis Capital Corp., providing $2.0 million in working capital to support near-term operational and strategic initiatives. Proceeds are expected to be used primarily to advance BlockFuel’s energy operations and broader corporate objectives.

The Company notes that certain aspects of the financing are subject to customary disclosure considerations, and additional details will be provided as appropriate and in accordance with applicable securities regulations.

Update on Proposed Merger with BlockFuel Energy
IBG and BlockFuel continue to advance toward completion of their previously announced merger, which is expected to result in BlockFuel Energy becoming the operating business of the combined public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “FUEL”. The transaction is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2026.

The proposed transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including approval from Nasdaq on the listing application of the combined public company. Both companies continue to work collaboratively with advisors and regulators to complete the required processes and advance toward closing. Management believes the combination positions the Company to participate in the intersection of energy production, power generation, and digital infrastructure, while providing IBG shareholders with exposure to a diversified and scalable operating platform.

If you have a question or would like to schedule a meeting with IBG or BlockFuel management, please contact BlockFuel@KCSA.com.

About Innovation Beverage Group
Innovation Beverage Group is a developer, manufacturer, marketer, exporter, and retailer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands for which it owns exclusive manufacturing rights. Focused on premium and super premium brands and market categories where it can disrupt age old brands, IBG’s brands include Australian Bitters, BITTERTALES, Drummerboy Spirits, Twisted Shaker, and more. IBG’s most successful brand to date is Australian Bitters, which is a well-established and favored bitters brand in Australia. Established in 2018, IBG’s headquarters, manufacturing and flavor innovation center are located in Sydney, Australia with a U.S. sales office located in California. For more information visit: https://www.innovationbev.com/

About BlockFuel Energy
BlockFuel Energy is involved in the acquisition, exploration and development of proven oil fields onshore in North America. By turning natural gas at the source, including stranded and flared gas, into a potent resource for the digital era, BlockFuel Energy intends to redefine the energy industry. BlockFuel Energy combines state-of-the-art power generation with oil and gas exploration to power bitcoin mining operations and high-performance data centers. Our vertically integrated concept allows us to use co-location and modular power generation techniques to optimize efficiency and investment returns. Our cutting-edge solutions for energy optimization and extraction will enable us to transform underdeveloped resources into high-margin, scalable, and sustainable revenue streams. For more information visit: https://blockfuelenergy.com/

Forward Looking Statement
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” and “forward-looking information.” These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the final terms of the potential merger transaction, the structure of such transaction, benefits of the contemplated transaction between IBG and BlockFuel Energy, expected closing conditions and the parties’ ability to complete the transaction, should definitive documentation be reached as well as other statements that are not historical facts. This information and these statements, which can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts, are made as of the date of this press release or as of the date of the effective date of information described in this press release, as applicable.

The forward-looking statements herein relate to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “projects,” “estimates,” “envisages,” “assumes,” “intends,” “strategy,” “goals,” “objectives” or variations thereof or stating that certain action events or results “may,” “can,” “could,” “would,” “might,” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) and include, without limitation, statements with respect to projected financial targets that the Company is looking to achieve.

All forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company’s management team. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. Such factors include, among others, (1) delays in finalizing definitive documentation for the contemplated transaction, (2) the risk that definitive documentation will reflect different terms than the non-binding terms described herein, (3) the risk of delays in consummating the contemplated transaction, including as a result of required regulatory and stockholder approvals, which may not be obtained on the expected timeline, or at all, (4) the risk of any event, change or other circumstance that could cause the parties to terminate the transaction prior to closing, (5) disruption to the parties’ businesses as a result of the announcement and pendency of the transaction, including potential distraction of management from current plans and operations of IBG or BlockFuel Energy and the ability of IBG and BlockFuel Energy to retain and hire key personnel, (6) reputational risk and the reaction of each company’s customers, suppliers, employees or other business partners to the transaction, (7) the possibility that the transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events, (8) the outcome of any legal or regulatory proceedings that may be instituted against IBG or BlockFuel Energy related to the transaction or merger agreement, should definitive documentation be executed, (9) the risks associated with third party contracts containing consent and/or other provisions that may be triggered by the contemplated transaction, (10) legislative, regulatory, political, market, economic and other conditions, developments and uncertainties affecting IBG’s or BlockFuel Energy’s businesses; (11) the evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes under which IBG or BlockFuel Energy operate; (12) any restrictions during the pendency of the contemplated transaction that may impact the parties’ ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; and (13) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, extreme weather, natural disasters, acts of terrorism or outbreak of war or hostilities. We caution any person reviewing this press release not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as several important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions, and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur.

The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by Company or on behalf of the Company except as may be required by law.

Contact:
Innovation Beverage Group Limited
Sahil Beri
CEO
sahil@innovationbev.com 
www.innovationbev.com

BlockFuel Energy Inc.
Daniel Lanskey
President and CEO
dan.lanskey@blockfuelenergy.com 
www.blockfuelenergy.com

Investor Relations:
KCSA Strategic Communications
Phil Carlson, Managing Director
BlockFuel@KCSA.com

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-innovation-beverage-group-provides-business-update-highlighting-energy-expansion-and-proposed-merger-with-blockfuel-energy/

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NZ-AU: December 2025 Quarter Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, Jan. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN, TSX:PDN, OTCQX:PALAF) (“Paladin” or the “Company”) is pleased to advise that it has released its quarterly report for the three month period ended 31 December 2025 (“December 2025 Quarter Results”).

The Company has also released an accompanying presentation on the December 2025 Quarter Results.

The quarterly report and presentation are available on Paladin’s website (https://www.paladinenergy.com.au/investors/asx-announcements/).

Contacts

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-december-2025-quarter-results/

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NZ-AU: Siltrax Fuel Cell Stack Secures TÜV Certification, Accelerating Global Deployment

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

SYDNEY, Jan. 21, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Siltrax, a leader in high-performance electrochemical innovation, has announced a definitive commercial milestone: the G-100 Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell Stack has officially attained TÜV certification.

Validating compliance with IEC 62282-2-100, this certification confirms the G-100’s safety architecture, manufacturing consistency and readiness for immediate integration into regulated global markets. A copy of the certificate is available here.

For Tier-1 system integrators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), this certification is a significant commercial accelerator. By providing validated, component-level safety evidence, Siltrax materially reduces “certification friction,” allowing partners to bypass redundant testing and accelerate the deployment of hydrogen-powered systems.

From Record-Setting Performance to Certified, Repeatable Hardware

This certification builds on Siltrax’s previously announced G-100 performance milestone, where independent third-party testing by TÜV Rheinland verified record-setting fuel-cell power density results from Siltrax’s silicon-based architecture. In that testing, the G-100 achieved up to 9.77 kW/L volumetric power density and up to 9.7 kW/kg gravimetric power density, establishing a new benchmark for size, weight and performance in hydrogen fuel cell stacks.

Siltrax is now translating that breakthrough into a certified, production-ready platform designed for real-world duty cycles and regulated markets.

Solving Downstream Challenges with Silicon Technology

For aviation, heavy transport and other high-duty and weight-critical applications, hydrogen adoption is often constrained by hardware limitations at the stack level. Siltrax’s proprietary silicon-based bipolar plate architecture — the first of its kind —directly addresses these constraints:

  • Optimizing Power-to-Weight Ratios: The G-100 achieves a volumetric power density and gravimetric power density of 9.77 kW/L and 9.4 kW/kg, respectively. In mass-sensitive sectors like aerospace, this efficiency translates directly into increased payload capacity and extended operational range.
  • Enhanced Durability and Reduced Downtime: Silicon substrates offer high thermal conductivity and structural rigidity, reducing thermal gradients and mechanical stress that commonly drive degradation in graphite- and metal-plate designs under sustained high-load operation.
  • Certification-Ready Hardware: TÜV certification allows integrators to reuse component-level safety evidence, reducing the time and costs associated with downstream qualification and system-safety cases.

Notably, Siltrax’s record-setting test results were achieved using commercially available, off-the-shelf components beyond Siltrax’s proprietary bipolar plate and flow channel design, underscoring additional headroom for future gains as the company integrates tailored gas diffusion layers and membranes optimized for its high-precision architecture.

Power Density That Unlocks New Markets

Siltrax’s G-100 performance exceeds key long-term international targets that many in the industry are still working toward. For example, the G-100’s demonstrated volumetric power density surpasses Japan’s NEDO targets across multiple time horizons, and its stack-specific power outperforms U.S. Department of Energy USDRIVE targets for stack specific power. That combination of performance credibility and certification readiness enables faster commercial adoption in applications where every kilogram and cubic centimeter counts.

A Platform for Real-World Use Cases

“The TÜV certification is a critical business enabler,” said Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Siltrax CEO. “We aren’t just building a more efficient fuel cell —we are providing a certified, safe and repeatable hardware platform. This allows our partners to bypass regulatory uncertainty and move straight to commercial application with full confidence in the product’s reliability.”

Siltrax is now actively scaling its operations to support deployment in three core business sectors:

  • Aviation & Drones: Delivering the weight efficiencies required for viable commercial hydrogen-electric flight.
  • Heavy Transportation: Enabling long-haul trucking and maritime fleets to meet emissions targets without sacrificing cargo volume.
  • Distributed Energy Infrastructure: Providing modular, certified onsite power for mission-critical assets, including data centers and EV mega-charging hubs.

Manufacturing Readiness

Siltrax is scaling manufacturing with a focus on repeatability, quality controls and supply continuity. The company is now offering G-100 evaluation units to qualified OEMs and integrators, with evaluation units available now.

For more information or to request an evaluation unit or the certification evidence pack, contact Daniel Zafir (dzafir@siltrax.net).

About Siltrax

Siltrax re-engineers the economics of power through electrochemical innovation. By utilizing proprietary silicon-based bipolar plates, we leverage the mature industrial foundations of the photovoltaic industry to deliver next-generation PEM fuel cells with leading power density and longevity, translating directly into higher payloads, longer uptimes, and lower total cost of ownership. Headquartered in Sydney, Siltrax provides the high-intensity energy required to transform demanding industrial operations into high-efficiency, zero-emission assets.

PR Contact:
Leah Wilkinson
Wilkinson + Associates for Siltrax
leah@wilkinson.associates

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-siltrax-fuel-cell-stack-secures-tuv-certification-accelerating-global-deployment/

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Weather News – Summer’s back in charge…for now – MetService

Source: MetService

Covering period of Monday 9th – Friday 13th February
 
–    Largely settled start to the week for northern and central New Zealand, but rain for the West Coast and far south
–    Swing to warmer-than-average temperatures for many on Thursday
–    Widespread rain arriving at the end of the working week

It’s looking like a classic summer setup for much of the country this week, with largely settled weather for northern and central parts, and a swing to hotter than average temperatures later in the week. Friday brings a change, however, with widespread rain arriving to dampen things before the weekend.

Dry days are set to dominate from Northland down to Christchurch to start the week. Summer heating brings the odd shower popping up inland in the afternoons, and we might even see a lightning spark or two up in the ranges of Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne, but for most people there will be plenty of chances to get out and about.

MetService meteorologist Silvia Martino says, “With sea-surface temperatures around much of the North Island’s coastline warmer than average, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the long summer evenings and squeeze in a swim after school or work.”

Things aren’t quite so sunny for western and southern parts of the South Island, though, with rain sweeping through on Tuesday, and lingering into Wednesday for the West Coast. MetService has issued a Heavy Rain Watch for Tuesday’s rain in Fiordland, with a moderate chance of being upgraded to a Warning.

Summer returns mid-week, with sunny skies, hot days, and humid nights for much of the country. Afternoon temperatures in the high twenties are expected on Thursday, and some places in Wairarapa and Canterbury might even crack 30°C, 6 or 7°C above average for this time of year.

“It could get uncomfortably hot later in the week, with several spots in the lower North Island set to approach or exceed their heat alert thresholds, and overnight temperatures in the high teens not allowing time for recovery. Now’s the time to make a plan: think about timing outdoor activities away from the hottest parts of the day, or shifting under cover if you have to be outside, and leave plenty of time for shade and water breaks,” advises Martino.

As we head towards the weekend things look quite different, with rain affecting most of the country on Friday, and heavy rain possible. Keep up-to-date with the latest forecasts and MetService’s Severe Weather Outlook for more details.

Understanding MetService Severe Weather Warning System

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (Localised Red Warning) – take cover now:

This warning is a red warning for a localised area.
When extremely severe weather is occurring or will do within the hour.
Severe thunderstorms have the ability to have significant impacts for an area indicated in the warning.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Red Warning: Act now!

Red Warnings are about taking immediate action:

When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Issued when an event is expected to be among the worst that we get – it will have significant impact and it is possible that a lot of people will be affected
In the event of a Red Warning: Act now!

Orange Warnings are about taking action:

When severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather
In the event of an Orange Warning: Take action.

Thunderstorm Watch means thunderstorms are possible, be alert and consider action

Show the area that thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the validity period.
Although thunderstorms are often localised, the whole area is on watch as it is difficult to know exactly where the severe thunderstorm will occur within the mapped area.
During a thunderstorm Watch: Stay alert and take action if necessary.

Watches are about being alert:

When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issued
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.
During a Watch: Stay alert

Outlooks are about looking ahead:

To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings
Issued routinely once or twice a day
Recommendation: Plan.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/weather-news-summers-back-in-chargefor-now-metservice/

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Speech to the Climate and the Cryosphere Open Science Conference and Antarctic Science Platform announcement

Source: New Zealand Government

Opening remarks

Nga mihi ki te rangi, ngā mihi ki te whenua. Ngā mihi ki a koutou. Kia ora mai tātou.

I greet the sky. I greet the earth. I greet all of you. Welcome.

Ki te mana whenua, tēnā koutou. Ko tēnei taku mihi tuku atu ki a koutou. Ngā mihi, ngā mihi.

I would also like to start by acknowledging Professor Tim Naish; Professor Brony James; Professor Gary Wilson; and all distinguished delegates who have travelled from around the world to be here.

Nau mai, haere mai ki whakatau ma Te Whanganui-a-Tara. Once twice, thrice a greeting.

Welcome to Wellington and welcome to New Zealand.

The importance and timeliness of this conference

Your conference comes at a pivotal time. Advances in cryosphere research are sharpening our understanding of the climate system, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere, while new technologies are transforming what researchers can observe, measure and model.

For New Zealand, our interest in Antarctica stretches back at least as far as a founding signature to the Antarctic Treaty System. Antarctica is not remote – it is our close neighbour and a critical part of our climate system. 

Changes in Antarctic ice sheets influence sea levels, storm behaviour, and long-term risk across our region. Closer to home, research on Southern Alps glaciers is improving our understanding of water resources, ecosystems, and energy security.

The work represented here strengthens and adds to the global evidence base and directly informs long-term planning and resilience. 

I acknowledge the significant contribution each of you makes through your fieldwork, modelling, innovation, and international collaboration. Thank you.

Strengthening New Zealand’s science system

Science, innovation and technology are important to a productive and resilient economy. Over the past year, we have responded to science productivity, innovation and modernisation concerns by delivering the most significant reform of New Zealand’s science system in over 30 years.

Seven Crown Research Institutes have been consolidated into three Public Research Organisations aligned to national priorities, including earth systems science. Once of the most successful amalgamations of large state-owned enterprises to date.

We have also established the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology, supported by $231 million over four years, to accelerate capability in frontier technologies such as cryogenic super conduction, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and synthetic biology.

These advanced technologies are increasingly relevant to Antarctic science – from autonomous under-ice vehicles and sub-ice moorings to high-resolution environmental modelling and remote sensing. They are expanding our ability to monitor ice-ocean interactions and improve predictive capability.

Announcement

A few months ago I announced the first ever formal science memorandum of understanding with the United States. The very first projects include:

  • Antarctic Groundwater-Ecosystem connectivity
  • Spectra of Sentinels: Mapping Ecosystem Change from Ground, Air and Space, and
  • Drivers and Implications of Rapid Sea Ice Decline in the Ross Sea.

Today, I am pleased to announce a new international collaborative partner, the UAE, a along with a targeted $1 million increase to New Zealand’s Antarctic Science Platform for 2026, through the Emirates Polar Steering Committee and the new Polar Research Centre. This investment will support two new joint research projects with Khalifa University in United Arab Emirates.

Through this partnership, researchers will access complementary strengths, including advanced satellite data streams and environmental sensing capabilities.

The initial collaboration projects will focus on:

  1. Storm dynamics and sea ice formation – integrating high-resolution modelling with new observation techniques to improve forecasting and understanding of how storm systems influence sea ice formation; and
  2. Tracking changes to ice shelves using autonomous underwater vehicles – deploying long-range AUVs and remote technologies to measure heat content and water mass exchange on the continental shelf, helping fill critical data gaps.

For New Zealand, this partnership further strengthens our contribution to global climate and cryosphere science while building our capability in advanced remote technologies.

This level of collaboration reflects the importance New Zealand places on cryosphere science and international scientific partnership.

Climate resilience and adaptation

The insights generated by cryosphere science are increasingly important for New Zealand and the world.

Here we face growing risks from floods, storms and other natural hazards. In October, the Government released New Zealand’s first National Adaptation Framework — a long-term plan to help communities prepare for climate impacts.

The framework includes practical steps such as developing a consistent National Flood Map, so New Zealanders can access trusted information about their risk, and requiring adaptation plans in priority areas so councils can plan ahead for the next 30 years.

Sound adaptation policy depends on robust science. The research and collaboration represented at this conference directly supports that work.

To all delegates, thank you for your commitment to advancing understanding of our climate system. With two new funded international Antarctic science collaborations in just over 60 days, you can see the importance I place and New Zealand places on cryosphere research. I have urgency and have acted accordingly and I hope that you also share that urgency.

International Science collaboration supported by innovation and technology is essential to building a resilient future.

Closing

In closing, I wish you a productive and stimulating conference, and thank you helping us build a better, safer world.

It is now my pleasure to declare the Climate and the Cryosphere Open Science Conference officially open.

Ngā mihi nui. Thank you.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/speech-to-the-climate-and-the-cryosphere-open-science-conference-and-antarctic-science-platform-announcement/

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Standards announcement welcomed by BusinessNZ

Source: BusinessNZ

BusinessNZ welcomes the announcement by Minister Scott Simpson that Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand have reached an agreement whereby joint standards will be properly funded and there will no longer be commissioning fees for New Zealand industry for the development of joint Standards.
BusinessNZ Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard says this is something industry has campaigned on, for many years.
“Standards Australia has been well resourced over the years, while Standards New Zealand was the poor cousin, and NZ businesses were having to pay to participate in joint standards development. This was on top of contributing experts sitting on committees and getting themselves to meetings in Australia.
“As a result of the cost barrier, and the 100 percent user pays model operating in New Zealand, there were about 500 joint standards that were de-jointed since 2016.
“Industry standards are needed for product safety, regulatory compliance, successful exporting and importing, efficiency, consistency, and many other needs. All manufactured items must be manufactured to recognised Standards. All recognised trade training in NZ is linked to Standards.
Beard says many Standards in use in NZ are Australia-NZ Joint Standards, created by joint work between industry groups on both sides of the Tasman. 
“Joint Standards are needed as Australia and NZ are each other’s biggest market for manufactured exports and given the closeness between the two economies and business sectors. This has been particularly challenging for construction and building industries, where safety could be compromised through inadequate Standards.”
Beard says the Minister, Standards NZ and Standards Australia should be congratulated on progress to fix the problem and that it would be a big relief for Industry Associations on both sides of the Tasman.
“BusinessNZ will continue to monitor this issue to ensure that Standards New Zealand is adequately funded to ensure this never happens again and that NZ can play its part in global standards development.”
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/standards-announcement-welcomed-by-businessnz/

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Call to levy services to keep financial mentor sector viable

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fincap, the organisation that represents financial mentors around the country, has made the proposal to the Finance and Expenditure Committee.

Financial mentors say organisations that benefit from their services should be willing to pay a levy.

Fincap, the organisation that represents financial mentors around the country, has made the proposal to the Finance and Expenditure Committee.

Forty-four financial mentor services lost funding in the latest round and Fincap spokesperson Jake Lilley said they are increasingly having to ask staff to take pay cuts or work as volunteers to be able to continue operating.

“We’ve had a lot close,” he told RNZ’s Nine to Noon.

He said it was a concern that the industry was also losing experienced people who knew how to navigate the complex situations that clients would seek help with.

But demand for their services has increased, and Lilley says many organisations rely on their services, including KiwiSaver providers who often suggest people making a hardship application seek help from a mentor.

Lilley said while financial services providers would have their own hardship teams, there were usually limits to what it was appropriate for them to discuss with clients. Financial mentors could look at people’s situations as a whole.

“You can get into a situation where the loudest creditor is the one who is paid when someone hasn’t got the assistance to look at the situation as a whole.”

He said some mentors said it took eight hours of their time to help a client with a KiwiSaver hardship withdrawal application.

Telecommunications and power companies also benefited from mentors’ work, he said.

David Baines, of Christchurch’s Kingdom Resources services, said his organisation lost funding in 2024.

“We were in a situation where government funding provided about 80 percent of our total income.” he said.

Of 11 staff, two became volunteers and four reduced their income, he said. But he said Kingdom Resources still received referrals from government agencies, even though funding had been stopped.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/call-to-levy-services-to-keep-financial-mentor-sector-viable/

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Health Research – New international report warns global drug policies are failing

Source: NZ Drug Foundation

The NZ Drug Foundation says a major new report on international drug policy reform over the past 10 years shows that the drug control system has failed and countries like New Zealand urgently need to change direction.

The UNGASS decade in review: Gaps, achievements and paths for reform report assesses progress made since the 2016 UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on drugs, widely viewed as a potential turning point in global drug policy.

NZ Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says it paints an incredibly grim picture, with many challenges hampering efforts to reduce the harm from drugs including the financial crisis facing the United Nations, threats to the international rule of law, AI-fuelled illicit trade and reduced funding for harm reduction.

“Old tropes, and the ‘war on drugs’ approach that is regaining momentum in the United States and elsewhere, need to end. Aotearoa New Zealand risks sliding into the same chaos seen in parts of North America if nothing changes,” Helm says.

“All the evidence tells us these approaches are continuing to push things in the wrong direction – the increase in harm and deaths globally over the last ten years is just staggering.”

The report shows that under the current international settings:

  • More drugs are being consumed. 
  • More potent and new substances have emerged, many of which are volatile and toxic. 
  • More people are using drugs. An estimated 316 million people aged 15-64 used drugs in 2023, which is a 28% increase since 2016 and far outpaces 9% global population growth. 
  • More people are dying as a result of drug use. Between 2016 and 2021, more than 2,678,000 people died (not including deaths from armed conflict in countries that supply the global drug market). 

There has been an alarming level of incarceration that has disproportionately affected marginalised communities. About 20% of the global prison population – or one in five people – is in prison for drug offences. Of those people, 22% or 2.5 million people are in prison for drug possession alone.

“Sadly, these international trends are all too familiar in New Zealand. Our Safer Drug Laws for Aotearoa New Zealand report shows that everything from addiction, to overdose deaths, to criminalisation have increased under our current approach – it’s painfully obvious that we need to change,” Helm says.

“We lose almost three New Zealanders per week to overdose, methamphetamine and cocaine use have doubled in the past year, new toxic substances like nitazenes are killing people and 3,000 New Zealanders have been criminalised for cannabis consumption in the past two years.”

More and more money has been spent on reducing supply, including drug busts, to little or no effect. In fact, mounting evidence shows that law enforcement strategies aimed at disrupting trafficking organisations have often been counterproductive. Instead of reducing supply, they have fragmented criminal groups, creating more dynamic and violent competition over illegal markets.

“Both internationally and here at home, we spend vastly more on combating the supply of drugs than on reducing demand and the harm caused. This approach has not worked so it’s time to take a different approach,” Helm argues.

There are a few bright spots to be found over the 10 years the report canvasses. 59 jurisdictions in 39 countries have now adopted some form of decriminalisation, compared to 33 jurisdictions in 23 countries in 2016. And 45 countries – including Aotearoa New Zealand – have adopted laws and policies to improve access to medicinal cannabis since 2016, bringing the global total to 63.

Helm says that for New Zealand to start turning things around, decriminalisation of drug use, coupled with significant investment in health and harm reduction services, has the clearest evidence of success internationally.

“For example, Portugal’s two decades of experience of decriminalisation is compelling,” she says. “Overdose deaths fell dramatically, HIV transmission rates plummeted, and the burden on the criminal justice system was eased, all without an increase in drug use. Portugal now has one of the lowest rates of drug-related deaths in the EU.”

“The evidence is clear that any law reform efforts must be coupled with significant investment in support, including ringfenced funding for services designed and delivered by Māori, who have experienced the greatest harm from our current laws,” she says.
 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/health-research-new-international-report-warns-global-drug-policies-are-failing/

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New trans-Tasman standards agreement signed

Source: New Zealand Government

A new agreement between Standards New Zealand and Standards Australia means improved products and opportunities for local businesses and households, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson says.

“This agreement is what this Government is all about – fixing the basics and building the future. It will make it easier to operate across New Zealand and Australia, reducing costs for businesses and improve the quality and safety of goods and services that consumers rely on every day,” Mr Simpson says.

In August 2025, Prime Minister Luxon and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese affirmed in their Australia-New Zealand Leaders’ meeting the importance of trans-Tasman standards and ongoing partnership.

“By aligning standards and adopting trusted international rules in areas like artificial intelligence, data management and cybersecurity, New Zealanders can have greater confidence that new technologies are being used safely and responsibly.

“Reducing fees and red tape will also free up businesses to invest in innovation and growth, supporting jobs, strengthening digital trade, and helping New Zealand businesses compete internationally – delivering long-term benefits for the wider economy.”

The two national standards bodies have signed a new Standards Development and Distribution Agreement and Statement of Operating Procedures.

Mr Simpson says the agreement reaffirms the commitment to trans-Tasman standards alignment.

“It ensures our standards system reflects modern science, technology, regulatory and business practice. It’s a win for New Zealand businesses, consumers, and our economy.”

Mr Simpson commended Standards New Zealand and Standards Australia for their close cooperation and focus on economic growth.

“Harmonised standards with Australia are a priority for this Government. The standards relationship between Australia and New Zealand is internationally unique and highly-valued, having delivered significant economic benefits to both countries.

“The new agreement has support from industry stakeholders on both sides of the Tasman and lays the foundation for future joint trans-Tasman standards development with Australia.”

Notes to editors:

 This agreement will ensure:

  • Shared standards to help businesses streamline operations, reduce costs, improve quality and meet regulatory requirements in both countries
  • Companies can focus on innovation, growth and global competitiveness
  • Adoption of international standards in areas such as artificial intelligence, data management, and cybersecurity gives businesses confidence to use new technologies
  • Removal of commissioning fees for New Zealand industry for joint Australian-New Zealand standards development
  • Support for digital trade and help New Zealand businesses remain competitive internationally
  • A stronger voice for New Zealand industry in the early scoping and prioritisation of joint standards work.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/new-trans-tasman-standards-agreement-signed/

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Changan Launches 2026 Global Testing Season with SDA Intelligence Update and Sodium-Ion Battery Strategy

Source: Media Outreach

YAKESHI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 February 2026 – Changan Automobile held a release event themed “Changan SDA Intelligence Update & Global Launch of Sodium-Ion Battery Strategy” in Yakeshi, Inner Mongolia. During the event, Changan formally unveiled its global sodium-ion battery strategy and announced the commencement of its 2026 Global Testing Season.

Changan is accelerating the advancement of sodium-ion battery technology as part of its global battery strategy. Tan Benhong, Chief Brand Officer of China Changan Automobile Group, noted that Changan will continue to roll out new sodium-ion battery–equipped vehicles across multiple brands in the near future.

“From extreme conditions to everyday driving — every pursuit of limits at Changan ultimately serves to protect each of our users’ everyday journeys.” stated Mr. Tan.

Under extreme low temperatures, sodium-ion battery systems demonstrated stable discharge capability, with validation extending beyond minus 40 degrees Celsius. To verify intrinsic safety, Changan and CATL conducted extreme abuse tests exceeding national standards, including compression, nail penetration, drilling, and full cutting under full charge, all without fire, explosion, smoke, or thermal runaway.

SDA Intelligence: Validation in Extreme Conditions

The launch also showcased SDA Intelligence, which moves beyond passive safety into proactive, AI-driven vehicle stabilization. During live extreme-cold testing in Yakeshi, vehicles from AVATR and Changan brands—including the CS Series, CHANGAN DEEPAL, and CHANGAN NEVO—were subjected to real-world scenarios under severe low-temperature conditions.

The AVATR 12 completed an ice-surface emergency lane-change following a tire blowout at 80 km/h. CHANGAN NEVO Q05 identified obstacles on low-friction ice during an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) challenge and achieved a controlled emergency halt. CHANGAN DEEPAL L06 demonstrated rapid posture adjustments during a high-speed circular drift challenge on snow.

User-facing safety at Changan is built on a validation-first approach supported by a robust verification system and globally advanced laboratory infrastructure, including the Western Automotive Proving Ground and the CHANGAN SDA Lab, enabling comprehensive, all-scenario validation across the full vehicle lifecycle.

Yakeshi is only the starting point. The 2026 Global Testing Season will include Southeast Asia for high-humidity durability and the European Alps for high-altitude chassis tuning. In Eurasia, Changan will conduct winter testing centered on confidence in ice and snow, with AVATR 12 as the test vehicle. In Latin America, Changan will carry out a Mexico cross-country drive from Cancun to Merida, focusing on long-distance reliability.

Hashtag: #Changan

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/changan-launches-2026-global-testing-season-with-sda-intelligence-update-and-sodium-ion-battery-strategy/

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Alibaba Group Debuts “Wonder on Ice,” an Immersive AI Experience at Milan’s Sforza Castle for Milano Cortina 2026

Source: Media Outreach

MILAN, ITALY – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 February 2026 – Alibaba Group today opened “Alibaba Wonder on Ice” (AWI), an interactive public installation in Milan’s Piazza del Castello Sforzesco, using artificial intelligence and cloud computing to showcase how virtual retail experiences could evolve during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Set against the historic backdrop of the Sforza Castle and the commercial artery of Via Dante, AWI turns one of Milan’s most recognizable public spaces into a live demonstration of how digital technologies can intersect with culture, commerce and consumer engagement. Powered by Alibaba’s advanced technology stack, the showcase illustrates how artificial intelligence can enable immersive, interactive digital retail experiences that respond dynamically to individual preferences.

“Alibaba and the IOC share a simple belief together: technology should enable the Olympic Games to be more exciting, accessible, sustainable and connected,” said Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group. “With the power of AI, we are moving from “Cloud Olympics” toward “Intelligent Olympics”, as AI helps us work better, make smarter decisions, and connect more meaningfully.”

“I’m delighted to be here at the Alibaba Group Showcase, celebrating nine years of our partnership which represents one of the most significant technological transformations in Olympic history. Building on innovations delivered at recent Games, Milano Cortina 2026 represents a major step forward in cloud-based, AI-enabled broadcasting and operations, setting a new benchmark for future editionsn. Together with Alibaba, we’re not only ensuring the Games remain efficient and sustainable, but also remain engaging through sports media technology to audiences, athletes and fans worldwide”, said Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)”

A Personalized Journey Guided by AI

At the core of the installation is an AI-guided journey that brings virtual retail into a physical environment. Upon entry, visitors are invited to share simple preferences—such as their favorite Milano Cortina 2026 sport—with an AI agent, which uses these inputs to curate a personalized journey throughout the space. Visitors may also choose to have their photo taken to generate a real-time digital avatar, further tailoring the journey to the individual.

The AI agent then acts as a virtual stylist, interacting with visitors and offering tailored recommendations for clothing, fragrance, and makeup. As participants make selections, the experience evolves continuously, demonstrating how AI-enabled retail can move beyond static product catalogues towards adaptive, interactive experiences. Each journey culminates in a personalized AI-generated video in which the visitor’s avatar becomes the central character in a digital gala setting.

The experience is supported by Alibaba’s latest AI and cloud technologies, including its Qwen3 series of large language and vision models, Wan 2.2 image-to-video generation model, and Taobao Vision’s immersive shopping solution, and Alibaba Cloud’s global cloud infrastructure.

Architecture Inspired by Ice and Light

Spanning 40 meters, the installation consists of two architectural elements:

  • The Snow Globe, a spherical pavilion that serves as an interactive space during the day and transforms into a projection surface for AI-generated visuals in the evening
  • The Crystalized Skirt Building, a sculptural structure inspired by the crystalline geometry of frost and snowflakes, which houses the immersive AI-powered virtual retail experience.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the installation uses recyclable materials and leaves no permanent footprint on the historic plaza.

AWI will be open to the public from February 7–22, 2026, during the Olympic Winter Games, and March 6–15, 2026, during the Paralympic Winter Games.

Showcasing the First AI-Generated Olympic Fan Art Collection

The opening of AWI also marked the unveiling of the results of the Alibaba Cloud AIGC Championship @ Milano Cortina 2026, the first Olympic fan engagement initiative of its kind developed in partnership with the International Olympic Committee, the Olympic Museum and the Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee.

Using Alibaba’s Wan video generation models, fans from around the world created original video artworks inspired by four winter sports: figure skating, short track speed skating, alpine skiing, and snowboarding.

A curated selection of the top 100 works is now being displayed on the surface of the Snow Globe. This collection represents the first AI-generated artworks to be displayed by the Olympic Museum located in Lausanne, Switzerland. Ten creators will be awarded tickets to attend the Olympic Winter Games in person.

By combining Olympic inspiration with accessible AI technology, Alibaba Wonder on Ice invites fans worldwide to go beyond spectating, allowing them to step into the Games, express their “vibe,” and join the Olympic Movement in an entirely new way.

Hashtag: #Alibaba

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/08/alibaba-group-debuts-wonder-on-ice-an-immersive-ai-experience-at-milans-sforza-castle-for-milano-cortina-2026/