#government grants Singapore

[cksaksen-blog]

Big Changes to Singapore’s Welfare System: What Every Family Needs to Know!

The Singapore government has rolled out several key welfare initiatives aimed at improving support for the elderly, expanding housing grants for low-income families, and strengthening family welfare programs. These changes will provide increased financial aid in areas like healthcare, housing, and childcare, ensuring that vulnerable groups in society have better access to essential…

[flashybaby]

My Marvel Universe: Year One

I apologize if this first year is rather uninteresting. It's the setup year after all, this is the beginning. The start of the age of Marvels.

January: 

32 year old Doctor Stephen Strange’s hands are irreparably damaged due to a car accident. He will never be able to perform another surgery again. Not long after, he disappears entirely, going completely off the grid with his last known sighting being in Tibet.

20 year old fashion icon Janet Van Dyne and 32 year old scientist Henry Pym meet for the first time, due to Pym’s fascination with Janet’s unique abilities, and a belief that it would be compatible with his pre-existing research into ants. They form a working relationship.

February: 

35 year old scientist Reed Richards, 28 year old scientist Susan Storm, 36 year old pilot Benjamin Grimm, and 17 year old flying prodigy Johnny Storm go missing after taking a joyride with an experimental spacecraft and getting blasted with cosmic radiation. They are proclaimed missing, but assumed dead. 

40 year old scientist and former teacher Charles Xavier finishes preparations for Xavier’s School for Gifted Children, hiring people with unique capabilities, as well as average people, as staff. 

27 year old inventor and CEO of Stark Industries Tony Stark finalizes work on his repulsor technology, creating energy weaponry.

March: 

The missing Reed, Ben and the Storm siblings make their grand reappearance as the Fantastic Four, doing battle against the recluse known as the Mole Man. This is the official start of what will be known as the Age of Marvels.

The government agency SHIELD becomes a public entity following this, having begun private investigations into many scientists that could push the field of science to unseen heights.

Professor Xavier, emboldened by the support the Four received following their first appearance, hosts a scientific conference revealing the existence of mutants to the world. The controversy that follows does not deter the Professor, as he begins his own plans for a mutant superhero team following in the Four’s footsteps. 

26 year old Bruce Banner finalizes his research into gamma radiation, preparing to show his findings to his backer, 50 year old General Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross.

April: 

The Fantastic Four continue to stun and amaze the world with their exploits and scientific discoveries. 

In response to the growing anti-mutant sentiments sweeping the world, Janet Van Dyne comes out as one, becoming a stalwart advocate for mutant rights. 

Bruce Banner’s demonstration of gamma weaponry goes awry, as he goes into the blast zone to protect 16 year old drifter Erica ‘Ric’ Jones, becoming a monster known as the Hulk. 

Pym’s research into Janet's mutant biology provides results, as he discovers unique energy particles that grant her the ability to shrink her size and becomes able to recreate them, though he can’t recreate her energy blasts or wings. He calls them ‘Van Dyne Particles’ at first, though Janet gives him permission to call them ‘Pym Particles,’ which the media and scientific world runs with. With this discovery, Janet and Pym become a superhero duo, at her insistence for positive mutant representation, becoming Ant-Man and the Wasp. Janet acts as an active superhero, while Pym acts as more of a scientific advisor.

May:

Tony Stark goes missing following a plane crash in Madripoor where he’s kidnapped and tortured by a gang of pirates using his technology, ending up with shrapnel lodged in his heart. With the help of 73 year old physicist Ho Yinsen, he manages to create a life-support system to keep himself alive, and create a suit of armor that manages to help him escape from the pirates, though sadly, Yinsen dies before they can make it out together. He is rescued in Singapore by his best friend and 29 year old U.S. Air Force Captain James ‘Rhodey’ Rhodes. 

The Hulk becomes seen by some as a hero for helping to defeat villains like the Abomination and the Bi-Beast as well as his gentle nature when calm and by others as a villain for his destructive rampages. He himself just wants to be left alone.

36 year old ruler of Latveria Doctor Victor Von Doom has his first encounter with the Fantastic Four, officially beginning a rivalry between himself and their leader, Reed Richards based off of their history in college.

Janet quickly becomes a superstar of the burgeoning superhero community, with Pym becoming a juggernaut of the scientific community alongside Reed Richards. There are rumors of a romantic relationship between the two, which isn’t completely unfounded.

26 year old lawyer Matt Murdock begins his first work as a vigilante, though he hasn’t developed the Daredevil persona as of yet, merely acting as a nameless fighter.

June:

28 year old Tony Stark officially begins his work as Iron Man, posing as his own bodyguard.

Thor Odinson is sent to Midgard, or Earth, by his father to learn humility, taking the guise of 34 year old doctor Donald Blake. He quickly becomes a notorious superhero, as both theologists and scientists are baffled by his mere existence, and as a result, the existence of magic.

Professor Xavier and his allies, 30 year old Sean Cassidy and 23 year old Shiro Yoshida, known as the Japanese hero, Sunfire, go around the world to find worthy candidates for his X-Men team. They discover a mysterious man in Japan with incredible healing capabilities as well as claws of the rare metal adamantium going only by the name of Logan, a 23 year old Kenyan-American woman with power over weather being worshipped as a goddess named Ororo Munroe, a 20 year old Russian farmer with steel skin named Piotr Rasputin, and a 24 year old German circus attraction with a blue demon-like appearance and the ability to teleport named Kurt Wagner. They are hired by Xavier to serve as staff at his school, as well as to be the founding members of his X-Men.

Ben Grimm, the Thing, and the Hulk have their first confrontation when the Fantastic Four are asked to hunt down the Jade Giant, quickly becoming rivals with each other as the Hulk suffers his first ever loss.

July:

WWII hero and former member of the Invaders, a government superhero team made by the Allies, Namor the Sub-Mariner makes his first reappearance in an encounter with the Fantastic Four. It’s rumored that the reason for his seeming immortality is his half-Atlantean biology. 

Earth has its first public experience with extraterrestrial life, as a small squad of Skrulls impersonate the Four using their shapeshifting abilities in an attempt to discredit them and have the public destroy them.

Tony Stark works with Reed Richards and Henry Pym to plan an expo to show their super-science to the world. Bruce Banner is invited, but chooses not to attend due to his condition, allowing them to discuss his research without him.

The X-Men are officially brought to America to serve as staff at Xavier’s school after a month of training and preparation.

August:

The Stark Expo goes off without a hitch, defended by Iron Man and the Wasp, who become fast friends, from the tech thief known as the Beetle, 33 year old Abner Jenkins. It is noted that one of 47 year old scientist’s Jonathan Drew’s radiation treated spiders went missing, assumed to be killed by foot traffic. Sadly, expo creator, organizer, and primary funder Tony Stark is unable to attend and demonstrate, his primary assistant 28 year old Virginia ‘Pepper’ Potts filling in his place.

The missing spider bites and empowers 17 year old Peter Parker, attending the expo with his friends, 18 year old Harry Osborn and 17 year old Mary Jane Watson as a birthday present from his aunt and uncle. Over the next few days, Peter’s life radically changes as he gains superpowers, using them to compete in a wrestling shoot match for profit. He allows a criminal to get away, leading to his uncle, 50 year old Benjamin Parker, to be shot dead, widowing 48 year old May Parker. Following this, Peter Parker creates the identity of Spider-Man. In his first official night as Spider-Man, he’s spotted crawling out of his window by Mary Jane, who keeps his identity secret out of respect and love.

Professor Xavier goes searching for the first students of his school, finding 15 year old Scott Summers in a foster home with bandage wrap forced over his eyes, 16 year old Hank McCoy excelling in his athletic pursuits with his gorilla like body, and 14 year old Bobby Drake having frozen a homophobic bully in a block of ice for calling him a slur. 15 year old Warren Worthington III is given to Xavier by his father, an old friend of Xavier, for his own protection. This gives Xavier an idea.

September:

Peter breaks into the Fantastic Four’s Baxter Building, as a way to ‘try out’ for the team, in hopes of getting a job. While told off by the team, he does make friends with them, particularly Johnny, due to being the same age.

Signs of alien activity in Earth's history starts to become apparent, as the Fantastic Four battle against an ancient robot sentry claiming to have been created by a race known as the Kree.

Editor in Chief of the famously anti-superhero, pro everything else left news organization the Daily Bugle, 52 year old J. Jonah Jameson hires Peter Parker due to his impressive photography skills, not knowing that he’s secretly Spider-Man, Jameson’s most hated hero.

October:

The X-Men, made up of Logan, Ororo, Piotr, and Kurt make their first public appearance under the identities of Wolverine, Storm, Colossus, and Nightcrawler respectively, fighting against the mutant supervillain, and Xavier’s old friend, Magneto, ?? (40 years old, physically) year old Holocaust survivor Erik Lensherr, preventing him from taking over a military base. While they are considered heroes, anti-mutant bigots take into account the casualties that they failed to prevent, holding them to impossible standards that other heroes aren’t.

Xavier discovers the 15 year old mutant Jean Grey in a New York suburb, sensing an incredibly powerful being within her. He decides to take her in personally as his direct ward due to this, as well as their similar powers.

Xavier officially opens Xavier’s School for Gifted Children, taking the five young mutants as students, as well as training them to be potential X-Men.

Peter meets Bobby, who is acting as a superhero named Iceman without Xavier’s permission, and they become fast friends. 

November:

The Kree send an up-and-coming Accuser, Ronan, to investigate and judge Earth due to the Kree Sentry’s destruction. He does battle against the Fantastic Four, with them handily beating him despite the power of his Universal Weapon. He determines that Earth is a curious planet worth keeping an eye on, inspiring the Kree to send more agents.

The Skrulls make their first bid for revenge against the Fantastic Four, using cosmic rays to empower one of their greatest warriors, Kl’rt, giving him all the powers of the Fantastic Four, though not as powerful. He almost beats the Four due to his tactical mind but is beaten by Reed making a device to temporarily depower him.

The Four are invited to the highly advanced isolationist African country Wakanda, having a brief encounter with its king and champion, the Black Panther, 30 year old T’Challa. They help him defeat an enemy from his past, 55 year old Ulysses Klaw, and inspire him to become a superhero and ambassador to Wakanda in the states with him appointing the head of his royal guard, the Dora Milaje, 33 year old Okoye, as regent. He also provides the scientific group of Richards, Pym, and Stark with a small cache of Vibranium, a metal with the power to absorb and redirect vibrations that Wakanda has in abundance, for the sake of scientific progress.

Thor and his sibling Loki have their first battle on Earth, with Loki using the power of the Norn Stones to temporarily enhance a gang of criminals to gain enough power to battle against Thor. Loki is defeated, deciding to plot out her next machination more carefully, while some of the criminals retain the power given to them by the Norn Stone, contained in their leader’s crowbar. They later go on to form the Wrecking Crew.

December:

Peter has his first encounter with a man who could be considered one of his greatest enemies, 43 year old Doctor Otto Octavius, Doctor Octopus, a brilliant man denied the recognition he believed he deserved, using his technology to commit crime. He gives Peter his first major loss as Spider-Man, beating him to the point where he considers quitting altogether. Following a pep-talk from Johnny and Bobby, Peter goes after Octavius again, this time beating him.

Sights of a silver being riding on a surfboard in the sky are talked about, most believing it to be nothing more than people seeing things, or hoaxes, or whatnot. The sightings stop after about a week.

The students of Xavier’s School go on their first mission, battling against the Brotherhood of Mutants, a third party in the conflict between Xavier and Magneto, led by Mystique, Raven Darkholme, stealing the idea of training young mutants from Xavier, while adopting more of Magneto’s mindset. The Brotherhood’s membership includes: Mystique’s wife, Irene Adler, Destiny, who has no stakes in the conflict between Xavier, Magneto, and Mystique, merely working with her wife out of love. 15 year old Anna-Marie, Rogue, a troubled girl with the power to steal skills, power, and energy via touch, who forms a rivalry with Jean Grey after temporarily stealing her powers. 14 year old John Allerdyce, Pyro, who forms a rivalry with Bobby due to their opposite power sets. 15 year old Fred Dukes, the Blob, a kid with a layer of protective blubber and personal gravity control, who joined just to be loved and formed a rivalry with Hank McCoy, now going by Beast, due to seeing the two of them as ‘monsters,’ and upset that Hank was loved while he was hated. 16 year old Lance Alvers, Avalanche, a mutant with the power to create quakes, forms a rivalry with Scott Summers, now going by Cyclops, due to his insulting of Xavier and for beating Slim within an inch of his life during their first battle. And their final member, 16 year old Remy LeBeau, also known as Gambit, with the power to charge kinetic energy into objects, who forms a more friendly rivalry with Warren Worthington, now going by Angel, due to his friendly disposition, though they still battle due to being on enemy teams.

Reed Richards and Susan Storm set a date for their wedding, that being the anniversary of the debut of the Fantastic Four.

[cognitivejustice]

The current landscape of hyper-local urban farming across Asia

Globally, urban farming is evolving as cities seek innovative solutions to sustainably feed their growing urban populations. Techniques like vertical farming and hydroponics are at the forefront, allowing crops to be grown in layered setups or water-based environments, minimizing land use, and reducing water consumption.  

Urban farming in Asia presents a rich tapestry of approaches, each shaped by the unique challenges and priorities of the region’s diverse cultures and economies. The rapid urbanization and dense population clusters in Asia make urban agriculture not just a choice but a necessity, driving innovation and adaptation in several key areas. 

China 

China has become a leader in urban agriculture through heavy investment in technology and substantial government support. Initiatives like the Nanjing Green Towers, which incorporate plant life into skyscraper designs, exemplify how urban farming can be integrated into the urban landscape.  

The government has also implemented policies that encourage the development of urban farming, providing subsidies for technology such as hydroponics and aquaponics, which are vital in areas with contaminated soil or water scarcity. 

Japan 

With its limited arable land, Japan has turned to creative solutions to maximize space, such as rooftop gardens and sophisticated indoor farming facilities.  

One notable example is the Pasona Urban Farm, an office building in Tokyo where employees cultivate over 200 species of fruits, vegetables, and rice used in the building’s cafeterias.  

This not only maximizes limited space but also reduces employee stress and improves air quality. 

Singapore 

Singapore’s approach is highly strategic, with urban farming a crucial component of its national food security strategy. The city-state, known for its limited space, has developed cutting-edge vertical farming methods that are now being adopted globally.  

The government supports these innovations through grants and incentives, which has led to the success of vertical farms. These farms use tiered systems to grow vegetables close to residential areas, drastically reducing the need for food transportation and thereby lowering carbon emissions. 

India 

In contrast to the technology-driven approaches seen in other parts of Asia, India’s urban farming is largely community-driven and focuses on achieving food self-sufficiency.  

Projects like the Mumbai Port Trust Garden take unused urban spaces and convert them into flourishing community gardens. These projects are often supported by non-governmental organizations and focus on employing women, thus providing both social and economic benefits. 

Thailand 

Thailand’s urban farming initiatives often blend traditional agricultural practices with modern techniques to enhance food security in urban areas. In Bangkok, projects like the Chao Phraya Sky Park demonstrate how public spaces can be transformed into productive green areas that encourage community farming. These initiatives are supported by both local municipalities and private sectors, which see urban farming as a way to reduce food import dependency and improve urban ecological balance. 

The Philippines 

In the Philippines, urban farming is an adaptive response to urban poverty and food insecurity. Metro Manila hosts numerous community garden projects that are often grassroots-driven, with local government units providing support through land and resources. These gardens supply food and serve as educational platforms to teach urban residents about sustainable practices and nutritional awareness. 

[usafphantom2]

The flight deck of HMS Eagle photographed in the Gulf of Aden during the British withdrawal from the Aden colony, November 1967.

Image: IWM (HU 106844) <1/2>

@IWM via X

A Short History Of The Aden Emergency

In 1839 Britain captured the town of Aden (now part of Yemen) in the south of the Arabian Peninsula.

Like the later seizure of Cyprus (1878) and of Egypt (1882), the occupation of Aden was a strategic rather than commercial undertaking, guarding the lines of communication with India. With British Somaliland on the ‘horn of Africa’, Aden provided control of the entrance to the Red Sea.

Following the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, Britain established protectorates in the hinterland of South Arabia to act as a buffer against the Ottomans who occupied Yemen. In 1937 Aden became a Crown Colony.

Following her humiliation in the Suez Crisis of 1956, Britain granted independence in February 1959 to the Federation of South Arabia, which was formed from the Aden colony and the surrounding protectorates, in order to stabilise the region, which had been dogged by years of unrest fuelled by Arab nationalism and anti-colonialism.

Having replaced Cyprus as the base of Middle East Land Forces, Aden was of even greater strategic importance to Britain, maintaining with Far East Land Forces in Singapore its global presence. In 1962 the British government announced that a permanent British garrison would be maintained in Aden. Yet in 1967, the British were forced to withdraw from the colony.

Aircraft include De Haviland Sea Vixen FAW.2s of 899 Naval Air Squadron and Blackburn Bucaneer S.1 and S.2s of 800 Naval Air Squadron. HMS Albion, HMS Fearless and HMS Auriga are visible behind.

[mhgrf]

Our country's regional visa-free policy for foreigners mainly includes:

Hong Kong and Macao foreign tour groups to enter Guangdong 144-hour visa-free policy. Citizens of countries with diplomatic ties with China holding ordinary passports may visit the nine cities in the Greater Bay area and the Shantou Bay Area without the need for a visa after entering the region through a group of Hong Kong and macao-registered travel agents, activities will be held in the cities of Guangzhou, Foshan, Zhaoqing, Shenzhen, Dongguan, Huizhou, Zhuhai, Zhongshan, Jiangmen and Shantou, group in and out, stay less than 144 hours.

Visa-free entry policy for tour groups from ASEAN countries to Guilin, Guangxi. Group tours (2 or more) from ASEAN countries (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia) , with an ordinary passport, you can enter or leave the country visa-free through the Guilin Airport and travel agencies in Guilin, stay no longer than 144 hours.

Visa-free entry policy for foreign tour groups by cruise. Foreign tour groups (2 or more persons) on cruises and received by travel agencies in China, visa-free group visits are available from 13 cruise ports in Tianjin, Dalian, Shanghai, Lianyungang, Wenzhou and Zhoushan, Xiamen, Qingdao, Beihai, Haikou and Sanya, the tour group shall travel with the same cruise to the next port until the departure of this cruise, activities for Tianjin, Hebei, Liaoning, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Shandong, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan and other 11 coastal provinces (autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the central government) and Beijing, stay no longer than 15 days.

4th, 59 countries personnel entry Hainan 30 days visa-free policy. Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Norway, Ukraine, Italy, Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Monaco, Belarus and 59 other countries hold ordinary passports, for short-term reasons such as tourism, business, visit, family visit, medical treatment, convention and exhibition, sports competition, etc. (except for work and study reasons) , visa-free entry to Hainan may be granted, the scope of activities shall be within the administrative area of Hainan province, and the entry and exit ports shall be all open ports of Hainan province, and the stay time shall not exceed 30 days.

Visa-free 144-hour entry policy for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong and Macao. Citizens of countries with diplomatic relations with China who hold ordinary passports and visit Hong Kong and Macao may visit Hainan visa-free if they are in a group of two or more members of a travel agency legally registered in Hong Kong and Macao, activities for the administrative area of Hainan province, the entry and exit ports for all open ports in Hainan province, the use of group entry and exit mode, stay less than 144 hours.

[dailyanarchistposts]

F.5 Will privatising “the commons” increase liberty?

“Anarcho”-capitalists aim for a situation in which “no land areas, no square footage in the world shall remain ‘public,’” in other words everything will be “privatised.” [Murray Rothbard, Nations by Consent, p. 84] They claim that privatising “the commons” (e.g. roads, parks, etc.) which are now freely available to all will increase liberty. Is this true? Here we will concern ourselves with private ownership of commonly used “property” which we all take for granted (and often pay for with taxes).

Its clear from even a brief consideration of a hypothetical society based on “privatised” roads (as suggested by Murray Rothbard [For a New Liberty, pp. 202–203] and David Friedman [The Machinery of Freedom, pp. 98–101]) that the only increase of liberty will be for the ruling elite. As “anarcho”-capitalism is based on paying for what one uses, privatisation of roads would require some method of tracking individuals to ensure that they pay for the roads they use. In the UK, for example, during the 1980s the British Tory government looked into the idea of toll-based motorways. Obviously having toll-booths on motorways would hinder their use and restrict “freedom,” and so they came up with the idea of tracking cars by satellite. Every vehicle would have a tracking device installed in it and a satellite would record where people went and which roads they used. They would then be sent a bill or have their bank balances debited based on this information (in the fascist city-state/company town of Singapore such a scheme has been introduced). In London, the local government has introduced a scheme which allowed people to pay for public transport by electronic card. It also allowed the government to keep a detailed record of where and when people travelled, with obvious civil liberty implications.

If we extrapolate from these to a system of fully privatised “commons,” it would clearly require all individuals to have tracking devices on them so they could be properly billed for use of roads, pavements, etc. Obviously being tracked by private firms would be a serious threat to individual liberty. Another, less costly, option would be for private guards to randomly stop and question car-owners and individuals to make sure they had paid for the use of the road or pavement in question. “Parasites” would be arrested and fined or locked up. Again, however, being stopped and questioned by uniformed individuals has more in common with police states than liberty. Toll-boothing every street would be highly unfeasible due to the costs involved and difficulties for use that it implies. Thus the idea of privatising roads and charging drivers to gain access seems impractical at best and distinctly freedom endangering at worse. Would giving companies that information for all travellers, including pedestrians, really eliminate all civil liberty concerns?

Of course, the option of owners letting users have free access to the roads and pavements they construct and run would be difficult for a profit-based company. No one could make a profit in that case. If companies paid to construct roads for their customers/employees to use, they would be financially hindered in competition with other companies that did not, and thus would be unlikely to do so. If they restricted use purely to their own customers, the tracking problem appears again. So the costs in creating a transport network and then running it explains why capitalism has always turned to state aid to provide infrastructure (the potential power of the owners of such investments in charging monopoly prices to other capitalists explains why states have also often regulated transport).

Some may object that this picture of extensive surveillance of individuals would not occur or be impossible. However, Murray Rothbard (in a slightly different context) argued that technology would be available to collate information about individuals. He argued that ”[i]t should be pointed out that modern technology makes even more feasible the collection and dissemination of information about people’s credit ratings and records of keeping or violating their contracts or arbitration agreements. Presumably, an anarchist [sic!] society would see the expansion of this sort of dissemination of data.” [Society Without A State”, p. 199] So with the total privatisation of society we could also see the rise of private Big Brothers, collecting information about individuals for use by property owners. The example of the Economic League (a British company which provided the “service” of tracking the political affiliations and activities of workers for employers) springs to mind.

And, of course, these privatisation suggestions ignore differences in income and market power. If, for example, variable pricing is used to discourage road use at times of peak demand (to eliminate traffic jams at rush-hour) as is suggested both by Murray Rothbard and David Friedman, then the rich will have far more “freedom” to travel than the rest of the population. And we may even see people having to go into debt just to get to work or move to look for work.

Which raises another problem with notion of total privatisation, the problem that it implies the end of freedom of travel. Unless you get permission or (and this seems more likely) pay for access, you will not be able to travel anywhere. As Rothbard himself makes clear, “anarcho”-capitalism means the end of the right to roam. He states that “it became clear to me that a totally privatised country would not have open borders at all. If every piece of land in a country were owned .. . no immigrant could enter there unless invited to enter and allowed to rent, or purchase, property.” What happens to those who cannot afford to pay for access or travel (i.e., exit) is not addressed (perhaps, being unable to exit a given capitalist’s land they will become bonded labourers? Or be imprisoned and used to undercut workers’ wages via prison labour? Perhaps they will just be shot as trespassers? Who can tell?). Nor is it addressed how this situation actually increases freedom. For Rothbard, a “totally privatised country would be as closed as the particular inhabitants and property owners [not the same thing, we must point out] desire. It seems clear, then, that the regime of open borders that exists de facto in the US really amounts to a compulsory opening by the central state… and does not genuinely reflect the wishes of the proprietors.” [Nations by Consent, p. 84 and p. 85] Of course, the wishes of non-proprietors (the vast majority) do not matter in the slightest. Thus, it is clear, that with the privatisation of “the commons” the right to roam, to travel, would become a privilege, subject to the laws and rules of the property owners. This can hardly be said to increase freedom for anyone bar the capitalist class.

Rothbard acknowledges that “in a fully privatised world, access rights would obviously be a crucial part of land ownership.” [Op. Cit., p. 86] Given that there is no free lunch, we can imagine we would have to pay for such “rights.” The implications of this are obviously unappealing and an obvious danger to individual freedom. The problem of access associated with the idea of privatising the roads can only be avoided by having a “right of passage” encoded into the “general libertarian law code.” This would mean that road owners would be required, by law, to let anyone use them. But where are “absolute” property rights in this case? Are the owners of roads not to have the same rights as other owners? And if “right of passage” is enforced, what would this mean for road owners when people sue them for car-pollution related illnesses? (The right of those injured by pollution to sue polluters is the main way “anarcho”-capitalists propose to protect the environment — see section E.4). It is unlikely that those wishing to bring suit could find, never mind sue, the millions of individual car owners who could have potentially caused their illness. Hence the road-owners would be sued for letting polluting (or unsafe) cars onto “their” roads. The road-owners would therefore desire to restrict pollution levels by restricting the right to use their property, and so would resist the “right of passage” as an “attack” on their “absolute” property rights. If the road-owners got their way (which would be highly likely given the need for “absolute” property rights and is suggested by the variable pricing way to avoid traffic jams mentioned above) and were able to control who used their property, freedom to travel would be very restricted and limited to those whom the owner considered “desirable.” Indeed, Murray Rothbard supports such a regime (“In the free [sic!] society, they [travellers] would, in the first instance, have the right to travel only on those streets whose owners agree to have them there.” [The Ethics of Liberty, p. 119]). The threat to liberty in such a system is obvious — to all but Rothbard and other right-“libertarians”, of course.

To take another example, let us consider the privatisation of parks, streets and other public areas. Currently, individuals can use these areas to hold political demonstrations, hand out leaflets, picket and so on. However, under “anarcho”-capitalism the owners of such property can restrict such liberties if they desire, calling such activities “initiation of force” (although they cannot explain how speaking your mind is an example of “force”). Therefore, freedom of speech, assembly and a host of other liberties we take for granted would be eliminated under a right-“libertarian” regime. Or, taking the case of pickets and other forms of social struggle, its clear that privatising “the commons” would only benefit the bosses. Strikers or political activists picketing or handing out leaflets in shopping centres are quickly ejected by private security even today. Think about how much worse it would become under “anarcho”-capitalism when the whole world becomes a series of malls — it would be impossible to hold a picket when the owner of the pavement objects (as Rothbard himself gleefully argued. [Op. Cit., p. 132]). If the owner of the pavement also happens to be the boss being picketed, which Rothbard himself considered most likely, then workers’ rights would be zero. Perhaps we could also see capitalists suing working class organisations for littering their property if they do hand out leaflets (so placing even greater stress on limited resources).

The I.W.W. went down in history for its rigorous defence of freedom of speech because of its rightly famous “free speech” fights in numerous American cities and towns. The city bosses worried by the wobblies’ open air public meetings simply made them illegal. The I.W.W. used direct action and carried on holding them. Violence was inflicted upon wobblies who joined the struggle by “private citizens,” but in the end the I.W.W. won (for Emma Goldman’s account of the San Diego struggle and the terrible repression inflicted on the libertarians by the “patriotic” vigilantes see Living My Life [vol. 1, pp. 494–503]). Consider the case under “anarcho”-capitalism. The wobblies would have been “criminal aggressors” as the owners of the streets have refused to allow “subversives” to use them to argue their case. If they refused to acknowledge the decree of the property owners, private cops would have taken them away. Given that those who controlled city government in the historical example were the wealthiest citizens in town, its likely that the same people would have been involved in the fictional (“anarcho”-capitalist) account. Is it a good thing that in the real account the wobblies are hailed as heroes of freedom but in the fictional one they are “criminal aggressors”? Does converting public spaces into private property really stop restrictions on free speech being a bad thing?

Of course, Rothbard (and other right-“libertarians”) are aware that privatisation will not remove restrictions on freedom of speech, association and so on (while, at the same time, trying to portray themselves as supporters of such liberties!). However, for them such restrictions are of no consequence. As Rothbard argues, any “prohibitions would not be state imposed, but would simply be requirements for residence or for use of some person’s or community’s land area.” [Nations by Consent, p. 85] Thus we yet again see the blindness of right-“libertarians” to the commonality between private property and the state we first noted in section F.1. The state also maintains that submitting to its authority is the requirement for taking up residence in its territory. As Tucker noted, the state can be defined as (in part) “the assumption of sole authority over a given area and all within it.” [The Individualist Anarchists, p. 24] If the property owners can determine “prohibitions” (i.e. laws and rules) for those who use the property then they are the “sole authority over a given area and all within it,” i.e. a state. Thus privatising “the commons” means subjecting the non-property owners to the rules and laws of the property owners — in effect, privatising the state and turning the world into a series of monarchies and oligarchies without the pretence of democracy and democratic rights.

These examples can hardly be said to be increasing liberty for society as a whole, although “anarcho”-capitalists seem to think they would. So far from increasing liberty for all, then, privatising the commons would only increase it for the ruling elite, by giving them yet another monopoly from which to collect income and exercise their power over. It would reduce freedom for everyone else. Ironically, therefore, Rothbard ideology provides more than enough evidence to confirm the anarchist argument that private property and liberty are fundamentally in conflict. “It goes without saying that th[e] absolute freedom of thought, speech, and action” anarchists support “is incompatible with the maintenance of institutions that restrict free thought, rigidify speech in the form of a final and irrevocable vow, and even dictate that the worker fold his arms and die of hunger at the owners’ command.” [Elisee Reclus, quoted by John P. Clark and Camille Martin (eds.), Anarchy, Geography, Modernity, p. 159] As Peter Marshall notes, ”[i]n the name of freedom, the anarcho-capitalists would like to turn public spaces into private property, but freedom does not flourish behind high fences protected by private companies but expands in the open air when it is enjoyed by all.” [Demanding the Impossible, p. 564]

Little wonder Proudhon argued that “if the public highway is nothing but an accessory of private property; if the communal lands are converted into private property; if the public domain, in short, is guarded, exploited, leased, and sold like private property — what remains for the proletaire? Of what advantage is it to him that society has left the state of war to enter the regime of police?” [System of Economic Contradictions, p. 371]

[thaivisanews]

Thailand Visa Exemptions

Thailand, known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. To make travel more accessible, the Thai government offers visa exemptions to citizens of many countries, allowing them to enter the country without a visa for a limited period. This article provides an overview of Thailand’s visa exemption policy, including eligibility, duration of stay, and important considerations for travelers.

What is a Visa Exemption?

A visa exemption allows citizens of certain countries to enter Thailand without obtaining a visa beforehand. Instead of applying for a visa at a Thai embassy or consulate, eligible travelers can present their passport at the port of entry and receive a stamp permitting them to stay in the country for a specified period. This streamlined process makes it easier for tourists and business travelers to visit Thailand for short stays.

Countries Eligible for Visa Exemption

As of October 2023, Thailand offers visa exemptions to citizens of over 60 countries, including:

Americas: United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico.

Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and most European Union member states.

Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong.

Middle East: Israel, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

The list of eligible countries is subject to change, so travelers should always check the latest information from the Royal Thai Embassy or consulate in their home country before planning their trip.

Duration of Stay

Under the visa exemption scheme, most eligible travelers are permitted to stay in Thailand for up to 30 days per entry. However, citizens of certain countries, such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, South Korea, and Peru, are allowed to stay for up to 90 days per entry.

It’s important to note that the visa exemption is intended for tourism or short business trips. Travelers planning to stay longer or engage in other activities, such as work or study, must apply for the appropriate visa.

Entry Requirements

While a visa is not required for eligible travelers, there are still entry requirements that must be met:

Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Thailand.

Proof of Onward Travel: Immigration officers may ask for proof of a return ticket or an onward ticket to another destination within the permitted stay period.

Proof of Sufficient Funds: Travelers may be required to show evidence of adequate financial means to support their stay, typically 10,000 THB (approximately $300) per person or 20,000 THB per family.

Accommodation Details: While not always requested, it’s a good idea to have details of your accommodation in Thailand, such as a hotel booking confirmation.

Extending Your Stay

If you wish to stay in Thailand beyond the visa exemption period, you can apply for a 30-day extension at a local immigration office. The extension process requires completing an application form, providing a passport-sized photo, and paying a fee of 1,900 THB (approximately $55). Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities, so it’s advisable to apply well before your initial stay period expires.

Visa Exemption vs. Visa on Arrival

It’s important to distinguish between visa exemptions and visas on arrival. While both allow travelers to enter Thailand without obtaining a visa in advance, they apply to different groups of travelers:

Visa Exemption: Available to citizens of eligible countries, as listed above.

Visa on Arrival: Available to citizens of certain countries (e.g., India, China, Saudi Arabia) who are not eligible for visa exemptions. This allows a stay of up to 15 days and requires a fee of 2,000 THB (approximately $60).

Important Considerations

Overstaying: Overstaying your permitted period can result in fines, detention, or even a ban from re-entering Thailand. Always ensure you comply with the rules.

Frequent Travel: Travelers who frequently enter Thailand under the visa exemption scheme may be subject to additional scrutiny by immigration officers. If you plan to visit Thailand multiple times within a short period, consider applying for a proper visa to avoid complications.

Border Runs: In the past, some travelers extended their stay by leaving Thailand and re-entering to receive a new visa exemption stamp. However, immigration authorities have tightened regulations, and this practice is no longer recommended.

Conclusion

Thailand’s visa exemption policy is a convenient option for travelers from eligible countries, making it easier to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural treasures. By understanding the rules and requirements, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the Land of Smiles. Always check the latest updates from official sources before your trip, and enjoy your stay in one of the world’s most captivating destinations!

[royalpain16]

THE SECOND ANNUAL SUMMIT WILL UNVEIL THE FIFTEEN 2023 EARTHSHOT PRIZE FINALISTS WHO ARE TRAILBLAZING CLIMATE SOLUTIONS TO REPAIR OUR PLANET BY 2030

The Earthshot Prize and Bloomberg Philanthropies today announced they will co-host the second Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit on September 19, 2023, in New York City with the founder of The Earthshot Prize, Prince William, expected to attend.

Held during New York Climate Week and the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly, the Summit will convene previous Earthshot Prize Winners and Finalists with policymakers, global business leaders, philanthropists, and climate activists to scale their innovative solutions.

At the Summit, The Earthshot Prize will reveal this year’s 15 Finalists and introduce their groundbreaking climate and environmental solutions to repair our planet this decade on one of the biggest international stages.

To help drive meaningful change, and accelerate the collaborations and investments needed to scale those solutions, the Summit will connect the new and previous Earthshot Prize Finalists and Winners with forward-thinking business leaders, philanthropists, and governments already working to regenerate the planet. September’s Summit begins the countdown to The Earthshot Prize’s third annual Awards ceremony in Singapore, where, on November 7, 2023, five of the 15 Finalists will be awarded a catalytic £1 million to scale their cutting-edge solutions.

Alongside Prince William, Michael R. Bloomberg, Global Advisor to the Winners of The Earthshot Prize, will address the assembled guests. Other featured speakers will include policymakers, business leaders, climate innovators, and previous Earthshot Prize Winners and Finalists. The full agenda will be announced in due course

Founded by Prince William and The Royal Foundation in 2020, The Earthshot Prize is a global environmental prize to discover, accelerate, and scale ground-breaking solutions that can help put the world firmly on a trajectory toward a stable climate where communities, oceans, and biodiversity thrive in harmony by 2030.

Inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s Moonshot, which united millions of people around the goal of reaching the moon, The Earthshot Prize recognizes Finalists and Winners across five challenges, or ‘Earthshots’: Protect and Restore Nature, Clean our Air, Revive our Oceans, Build a Waste-free World, and Fix our Climate. The Prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism and will discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet

The inaugural 2021 Earthshot Prize Finalists have already driven incredible impact with more than 1.5 million people benefiting directly from their solutions. Over 7,000 hectares of land and almost 2.1 million hectares of ocean have been protected or restored, while over 35,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, avoided, or sequestered. The 2022 Finalists, announced this past autumn, are well on their way to creating similar impact.

To help accelerate the work of the inaugural Finalists at last year’s Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit, Bloomberg Philanthropies committed more than $20 million through direct grants, co-funding, and other efforts to support the success of the inaugural Finalists and Winners of The Earthshot Prize 2021, including:

Scaling Takachar’s technology, which reduces smoke emissions from agricultural waste by up to 98%, through a pilot program in villages in the state of Punjab and Haryana, India.

Supercharging Pristine Seas’ 30×30 ocean protected goal through funding major ocean expeditions, helping establish more marine protected areas, and enhancing diplomacy and advocacy efforts. Pristine Seas has already helped establish 26 marine reserves worldwide, across an area over twice the size of India.

Scaling Coral Vita’s research capabilities to identify new restoration sites and monitor both restoration progress and local marine health after installation. Coral Vita’s cutting-edge methods to grow coral up to 50 times faster than nature can help replant our oceans and give new life to dying ecosystems.

Expanding the capacity of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs and Blue Map App to scale its data, research, and reporting capabilities.

Convening at least ten North American and European cities in partnership with C40 and NRDC to accelerate efforts to address food waste and food insecurity by sharing best practices from and helping to scale the City of Milan’s Local Food Waste Hub initiative, which currently provides about 260,000 meals to those most in need, to other cities.

As a mayor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Michael R. Bloomberg has long been a global leader in the fight against climate change. He has committed more than $1 billion to efforts across the world to mobilize cities and local leaders to reduce emissions, improve air quality, advance the global transition to clean energy, protect and preserve ocean ecosystems, and help unlock billions of dollars in sustainable finance.

Bloomberg helps lead a number of efforts including the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy, America Is All In Coalition, Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures, Climate Finance Leaders Initiative, and the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero.

“To effectively tackle the climate crisis, we need to invest in innovative solutions and new ideas that can accelerate global progress and help repair the planet. This year’s Earthshot Prize Finalists are great examples of the kind of bold action and creative thinking we need, and our team is looking forward to working with Prince William to support them as they expand their ambitions.”

Michael R. Bloomberg, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions, Founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg Philanthropies, and 108th Mayor of New York City

“The Earthshot Prize scours the world to find entrepreneurs and innovators who exemplify the power of human ingenuity to address our most significant climate and environmental challenges. Our next class of Finalists are on the cutting-edge of some of the most exciting ideas and technologies, and with the support of our Global Alliance Partners and the global community gathering at the UN General Assembly, they have the potential to transform communities around the world for the better. By spotlighting the incredible work of our 2023 Finalists at the Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit, we hope to inspire a wave of positive change and unlock a more sustainable and resilient future.”

Hannah Jones, The Earthshot Prize CEO

[energy-5]

Sustainable Development in Singapore: An Exemplar of Modern Urban Ecology

Strategic Advancement in Green Building: In an ambitious endeavor, Singapore aims for 80% of its buildings to be green-certified by 2030, a significant milestone considering its urban density. Changi Airport, an epitome of this initiative, integrates a myriad of eco-friendly features, including the Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, enhancing its reputation as the "World's Best Airport" for eight consecutive years.

Solar Energy Initiatives: Singapore's commitment to renewable energy is evident in its solar power achievements. Surpassing 820 megawatt-peak (MWp) in solar capacity at the end of 2022, the nation is on track to reach its 2025 target of 1.5 gigawatt- (GWp).

Enhancements in Public Transportation: Singapore's sustainable transport strategy aims for 75% of peak-hour commutes to be via public transport by 2030. The expansion of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system and the introduction of eco-friendly buses are pivotal in this endeavor, aiming to reduce reliance on private vehicles and lower carbon emissions.

Promotion of Electric Vehicles (EV): The government's extension of the Electric Vehicle Common Charger Grant until December 2025 underscores its commitment to enhancing EV infrastructure. This initiative, covering up to 50% of the cost of smart chargers, has led to the approval of 267 EV charger applications across 107 condominiums since July 2021.

Vision of a "City in a Garden": Singapore's approach to urban development harmoniously blends with environmental stewardship, as seen in its goal to plant one million trees by 2030. The iconic Gardens by the Bay, with its Supertrees, symbolizes this blend of ecological innovation and urban living, integrating features like solar energy collection and rainwater harvesting.

Singapore's multifaceted approach to sustainability is a testament to its visionary leadership, integrating technology, policy, and community involvement to create a living model of a sustainable urban future.

[readingsquotes]

"In May 2023, India and Israel signed a new bilateral agreement to bring forty-two thousand additional Indian laborers to Israel. Modi’s most recent agreement with Netanyahu aims to fast-track current plans even more, lifting restrictions to hasten migrant workers’ entry into Israel. The temporary, low-wage migrants from rural and small-town North India, some of the poorest regions in the country, are desperate for decent employment—so desperate that they’re willing to work for a regime that is actively engaged in what the International Court of Justice has called a “plausible genocide.” They’re seeking paid work they’ve failed to find within India’s growing but deeply unequal and caste-bound economy. Bilateral deals like the one between India and Israel give off the sheen of newness, appearing to be the products of a twenty-first century age of hypermobile capital. But in fact, the two countries are dusting off a time-worn strategy from the colonial archive: importing and exporting racially marked temporary labor to manage political and economic problems in one fell swoop."

....

Bilateral mobility agreements like the India-Israel deal are nothing new. Across the world, more and more states—Singapore, Bahrain, Canada, and the United States among many others—have begun to employ temporary, closed-term migrant labor programs. In the Middle East, autocratic Gulf states have long relied on such schemes. And in addition to contracting Palestinian labor, Israel has long relied on Thai, Filipino, Nepali, and Indian workers, too. Typically, these states have two goals. On the one hand, they want to preserve the ethnic composition of a privileged national citizenry. On the other, they need large amounts of cheapened laborers, especially in the domestic, construction and retail sectors, to grow. Contract labor schemes have allowed them to do both: with them, states can access a mass supply of workers without having to grant any of them citizenship. Israel, for example, offers five-year, temporary immigration channels for migrant workers, but gives them no option for family reunification or naturalization.

...

The Modi-Netanyahu labor deal has an even older historical predecessor: British indenture. In the nineteenth century, as chattel slavery came to an end in Britain, indentured labor from countries such as India and China was introduced as a more “humane” alternative. The practice was abolished in 1920, but a century later, traces of its institutional legacy live on in migrant labor programs. Indian and other Asian workers were desirable across the Gulf region because they were seen as politically “docile,” a powerful racial trope with particular roots in nineteenth-century indenture practices. They were also desirable because, as sociologist Andrzej Kapiszewski notes, “Asian governments became often involved in the recruitment and placement of their workers, facilitating their smooth flow to the Gulf countries.” The governments of India, Pakistan, and the Philippines, lured by the healthy remittances promised to them, were all too eager to help in the importation of their workers.

...

If modern states have ensured the brutal subjugation of both populations living, and workers laboring, in their borders through colonial means, then the resistance to those tactics must be anticolonial in response.

[spectra-gt-23]

ARTIFICE ACT OF NIKOLA

Nikola Corporation, a once-promising player in the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry, faced a significant downfall after being exposed for fraud and misrepresentations. Founded in 2014 by Trevor Milton, Nikola aimed to be a global leader in zero-emission transportation, particularly with hydrogen-powered trucks. The company secured partnerships with reputable automotive players and garnered substantial investments, reaching a valuation of $34 billion at its peak.

However, in September 2020, a report by Hindenburg Research accused Nikola of significant misrepresentations and fraudulent claims about its technology and business. The report alleged that Nikola's proprietary technology was acquired from other companies, and it raised questions about Milton's past ventures, which were also marred by lawsuits and exaggerated misrepresentations. The revelations led to a rapid decline in Nikola's stock price and the withdrawal of partnerships, including General Motors.

The fraud allegations prompted investigations by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Justice. Milton was charged with securities and wire fraud, accused of misleading investors about Nikola's products and technology to boost the company's stock value. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. Nikola attempted to distance itself from Milton, stating that he had not been involved in the company since his resignation in September 2020.

The case study raises several discussion points, including the use of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs) as a means of raising capital, the impact of remuneration policies on executive behavior, the composition and independence of Nikola's board of directors, the role of short-sellers in exposing fraudulent practices, and the differences in legal and regulatory environments between the U.S. and Singapore.

The document also highlights red flags in Nikola's statements and actions that could have been detected earlier through proper due diligence by investors. It questions the viability of the SPAC route to going public, considering the potential for fraudulent activities. The case study emphasizes the need for robust corporate governance, independent boards, and transparent disclosure practices to prevent such misrepresentations and fraud in the future.

Furthermore, the document mentions the controversies surrounding Milton's previous ventures and his retention of a significant shareholding in Nikola, which potentially grants him control over the company. It discusses the severance terms negotiated by Milton, allowing him to retain substantial benefits even after his departure from the company.

Overall, the Nikola case serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of fraudulent practices, the importance of thorough due diligence by investors, and the need for effective corporate governance to protect shareholders' interests and maintain trust in the market. The future of Nikola remains uncertain as it faces legal challenges, loss of partnerships, and a lack of capital and resources Nikola Corporation, a once-promising player in the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry, faced a significant downfall after being exposed for fraud and misrepresentations. Founded in 2014 by Trevor Milton, Nikola aimed to be a global leader in zero-emission transportation, particularly with hydrogen-powered trucks. The company secured partnerships with reputable automotive players and garnered substantial investments, reaching a valuation of $34 billion at its peak.

TASK AT HAND

You are Nikola's New Chief Executive Officer and have been tasked with the company's Re-launch. Create strategies for the company to ensure its survival in the EV market and gain the highest market share.

DELIEVERABLES

• Executive Summary

• Reasons behind the financial failure of the company from the point of view of mistakes in strategic decision making.

• Given the events of Nikola, design a business model for a new EV company ensuring transparency, sustainability, and innovation.

• Present your venture to potential investors highlighting the lessons learned from Nikola’s case. Assuming Nikola wants to rebuild its brand, devise a 5-year strategic plan that can help the company regain trust and establish a solid market position.

• Given the EV industry's dynamics, conduct a SWOT analysis for Nikola post-crisis, identifying potential markets and segments they could target.

• Evaluate the financial risks involved in investing in start-ups, especially in the high-tech domain, and devise a plan to mitigate such risks.

• Public Relations Strategy to revive the trust and goodwill of the stakeholders.

REQUIREMENTS

A) Report of maximum 50 pages.

B) PPT of minimum 12 slides.

C) Poster for the Launch

Brownie points for extra deliverables (promotional video, logo, tagline, etc.)

Deadline : 4:30 am (19th October )

For any further queries please contact :

Manan : 7490921044

Sneha: 6375388745

Mail (to Submit the assignment): spectra23.gt@gmail.com

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

The promise and peril of Brazil’s Fake News law

Who moderates the moderators?

In the past five years, “fake news” laws have popped up everywhere. In Singapore, government ministers have used a new law to demand retractions from uncooperative newspapers. In France, the local fake news law unintentionally forced Twitter to sinkhole a government hashtag. The most alarming consequences of these new laws have come in Turkey and Russia, where fake news rules have been used to power a broader crackdown on opposition groups and dissenting speech. The laws vary widely in details, but they all capitalize on the public desire to rein in speech platforms like Facebook and YouTube, and use it to grant new powers to the government.

Brazil hasn’t passed a fake news law yet — but there’s one facing the Parliament, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Introduced in April, the bill would place severe new restrictions on what social networks can promote online, including liability for platforms that spread “untrue facts.” The bill also has a new “must-carry” clause that obliges platforms to host public interest announcements. (Tech Policy Press has an excellent write-up on the provisions of the bill, highlighting how some of those restrictions may violate the right to free expression.) Crucially, the law isn’t just aimed at Facebook; it would also apply to messaging services like WhatsApp, which play an even larger role in spreading news than conventional social networks.

Some version of the bill has been kicking around since 2020, but it’s come back to the forefront after a string of alarming incidents. January 8, 2022, saw a mob of Bolsonaro supporters storm key government buildings in the Brazilian capital (in an eerie echo of the January 6 Capitol attack in the U.S.), and many in the country see the incident as driven by online misinformation. More recently, a rise in school shootings in Brazil has been connected with hate speech and online radicalization, adding urgency to any proposal that might address the problem.

Continue reading.

[lioncitblogger]

How to Market Your Business in Singapore

Singapore is a dynamic hub of commerce, innovation, and culture. With over 85% of its population connected online and one of the highest smartphone penetration rates globally, the Lion City offers immense opportunities for businesses to thrive. However, standing out in this competitive market requires strategic planning and execution. Let’s explore actionable strategies for how to market your business in Singapore effectively.

Why Marketing in Singapore Requires a Unique Approach

Singapore’s diverse culture, tech-savvy population, and fast-paced economy demand a localized and innovative marketing strategy. Businesses that understand the nuances of this market can build stronger connections with their audience and achieve long-term success.

"Marketing is no longer about the stuff you make, but about the stories you tell." – Seth Godin

Proven Strategies for Marketing Your Business in Singapore

Leverage Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn dominate in Singapore, with users spending an average of 128 minutes daily on these channels. To maximize your reach:

Create visually engaging content tailored to local trends.

Use TikTok for viral campaigns targeting younger demographics.

Engage with followers through comments, live sessions, and direct messages.

Pro Tip: Use analytics tools to monitor your performance and refine your strategy based on audience engagement.

Anchor text: how to market your business in Singapore

Optimize for Search Engines (SEO)

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is critical for driving organic traffic to your website. In Singapore’s competitive market:

Research local keywords relevant to your industry.

Create high-quality blog posts and videos that address customer pain points.

Ensure your website is mobile-friendly since most users browse on smartphones.

Investing in SEO is a long-term strategy that ensures visibility without relying solely on paid ads.

Embrace Influencer Marketing

Influencers hold significant sway over consumer behavior in Singapore. Collaborating with local influencers can amplify your brand’s visibility:

Partner with influencers who align with your brand values.

Use micro-influencers for niche audiences or macro-influencers for broader reach.

Offer affiliate programs to incentivize influencers to promote your products authentically.

Anchor text: how to market your business in Singapore

Focus on Mobile Marketing

With over 80% of Singaporeans owning smartphones, mobile marketing is essential:

Optimize your website for mobile devices.

Use SMS marketing for personalized offers.

Run mobile-first ad campaigns on platforms like Facebook and Google.

A seamless mobile experience enhances customer satisfaction and boosts conversions.

Participate in Local Events

Event marketing allows businesses to engage directly with their audience:

Host or sponsor trade shows, product launches, or pop-up events.

Use these opportunities for experiential marketing where customers can interact with your brand.

Build relationships with other local businesses through partnerships.

Tap into Government Grants

The Singapore government offers various grants to support businesses:

Enterprise Development Grant (EDG): For branding and digital marketing initiatives.

Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG): For adopting e-commerce or CRM systems.

Start Digital Programme: For new businesses looking to digitize their operations.

These resources can significantly reduce marketing costs while boosting efficiency.

Localize Your Content

Singapore’s multicultural audience appreciates personalized messaging:

Incorporate local slang or Singlish where appropriate.

Tailor campaigns to align with cultural festivals like Chinese New Year or Hari Raya Puasa.

Use testimonials from local customers to build trust.

Localization fosters deeper connections and resonates more effectively with the target audience.

Key Takeaways

Marketing your business in Singapore requires a mix of creativity, cultural sensitivity, and strategic execution. By leveraging social media, optimizing for SEO, embracing influencer collaborations, and tapping into government resources, you can create a robust marketing plan that drives results. Ready to take the next step? Check out this comprehensive guide on how to market your business in Singapore for more expert insights!

[usafphantom2]

US and allies warn Houthis of "consequences" if attacks on ships continue

Fernando Valduga

The U.S. and its allies issued a firm warning to the Houthi rebels in Yemen on January 3, telling the group to stop attacks on ships in the Red Sea or face "consequences".

“The Houthis will bear responsibility for the consequences if they continue to threaten lives, the global economy and the free flow of trade on the region's critical waterways,” said a joint statement from the U.S. and 12 other countries.

As of January 2, the Iranian-backed Houthis have carried out 24 attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea since November 19, according to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The crew of 25 people on a ship has been held captive since November.

The U.S. wanted to "send a very clear warning to the Houthis," a senior administration official told reporters on January 3.

The Houthis began attacking Red Sea ships following the war between Israel and Hamas. The Houthis said they defend "our brothers in the Gaza Strip".

The Houthis attacked commercial ships with drones, small attacks on boats and missiles, including the "first time that anti-ship ballistic missiles were used anywhere, much less against commercial ships," according to the senior administration official.

The U.S. defended itself against Houthi attacks with Navy fighters and missile defense systems. British and French ships also shot down drones launched by the Houthis.

The U.S. military has prepared attack options against the Houthis if the Biden administration decides to use force against targets in Yemen, according to U.S. officials.

British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said the United Kingdom is “willing to take direct action” if the attacks continue.

“I would not expect another warning” before the U.S. could take more energetic measures, added the senior U.S. administration official.

The U.S. military recently used force against the Houthis in self-defense. On December 31, four small boats fired at U.S. Navy helicopters that came to the aid of a commercial ship under attack. The helicopters responded, killing members of the group and sinking three of the boats, according to the senior administration official and CENTCOM. The Houthis said that 10 of their members were killed in this incident. The senior government official said that the Houthis could be trying to kidnap the ship or damage it in a suicide bombing.

"The ongoing Houthi attacks on the Red Sea are illegal, unacceptable and deeply destabilizing," says the statement by the governments of the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, New Zealand and the United Kingdom warning about the case. "May our message now be clear: we call for an immediate end to these illegal attacks and the release of ships and crews detained illegally."

An emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council was held on January 3 to discuss the Houthi threat. The president of the Joint General Staff of the Air Force, General Charles Q. Brown Jr., spoke with his UK counterpart, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, on January 3 and "discussed the illegal Houthi attacks underway," according to a reading of the Call of the Employees Set.

"I think this demonstrates that the U.S. and its partners are trying to operate responsibly, but that there is a limit to the behavior they are willing to accept," said retired Army General Joseph L. Votel, who led the 2016-2019 CENTCOM.

The Houthis have missile and drone launchers, coastal radars and weapons storage facilities that could be targeted if the U.S. or other nations decide to use force.

The U.S. launched a limited salvo of cruise missiles at three coastal radar sites in Yemen in 2016, in response to attacks on Houthis ships during Votel's time as commander of CENTCOM.

“The message is considered, as would be expected, but it clearly highlights that there are consequences associated with continuous attacks and that these nations will hold evil actors accountable,” said Votel, an illustrious senior member of the Middle East Institute. He added that the declaration “emphasises the importance of taking advantage of all forms of national power, in this diplomatic and informative case, to put pressure on the Houthis and their Iranian supporters”.

Iran and the so-called Axis of Resistance of groups aligned with it launched attacks in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. But some U.S. officials and regional security experts say that the Houthis are more unpredictable and hard-lined than other groups supported by Iran.

Ships run a particular risk near Yemen because they have to use the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to cross between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, a critical bottleneck.

“Almost 15% of global maritime trade passes through the Red Sea, including 8% of global grain trade, 12% of oil traded by sea and 8% of world trade in liquefied natural gas,” the joint statement noted.

The U.S. launched the multinational Operation Prosperity Guardian in December to help defend against the Houthi attacks. American F/A-18 fighters from the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower slaughtered Houthi drones. Sometimes, U.S. Air Force fighters have been active in the Red Sea, said a senior U.S. defense official. The U.S. is also known to operate MQ-9 drones off the coast of Yemen, and the U.S. and the UK have operated P-8 maritime surveillance aircraft in the region in the past.

"Especially when it comes to awareness of the maritime domain, air power is always a significant contributor to this," said Pentagon press secretary, Major General of the Air Force, Patrick S. Ryder, on December 21.

The Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea are connected by the Suez Canal, but commercial cargo ships have been forced to redirect their ships around the Cape of Good Hope, off the southern coast of Africa, causing significant delays and costs for the global economy.

“These attacks threaten innocent lives around the world and constitute a significant international problem that requires collective action,” the joint statement states. "We remain committed to the rules-based international order and are determined to hold evil actors responsible for illegal seizures and attacks."

Source: Air & Space Forces Magazine

Tags: Military AviationNATO - North Atlantic Treaty OrganizationWar Zones - Middle East

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. He uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

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Budget 2025: Supporting Workforce Growth with HR Tech Like Adaptive Pay

Each year, the Singapore government introduces new initiatives to support both workers and businesses. Budget 2025 stands out for its focus on upskilling employees and expanding the workforce. This allocation essentially gives HR professionals a chance to enhance talent acquisition, development, and retention — all while leveraging available subsidies and grants. Consider implementing an HRMS in Singapore to fully capitalise on the available support and manage your training initiatives. A human resource management software solution like Adaptive Pay can help your HR department make the most of Budget 2025 while streamlining your operations.

Key initiatives for workforce growth

• Budget 2025 provides government grants and subsidies to help employers ensure that their employees remain competitive in a fast-paced job market through reskilling and upskilling programs.

• Furthermore, it encourages companies to adopt HRMS in Singapore and other such technologies to boost efficiency through digital transformation incentives.

• It also offers financial initiatives to support the retraining and hiring of local talent.

• Finally, there are new employment policy updates within Budget 2025 that may affect your HR operations.

What does it mean for your HR team?

Budget 2025 can give you access to valuable programs, most notably the SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC). This government initiative helps businesses like yours invest in both HR technology and employee development. If your company qualifies, you can receive up to SGD10,000 to offset related costs. In essence, the SFEC empowers you to upskill your workforce and digitise your HR operations. Specifically, these credits can help you acquire tools like AdaptivePay and fund essential training courses.

Why use HR tech like Adaptive Pay?

Adaptive Pay is an HRMS designed for Singapore that helps your team maintain compliance while optimising employee experiences and training. It automates core HR functions like leave and payroll to allow your HR professionals to dedicate more time to talent management strategies that support employee growth and development. Plus, its comprehensive cloud-based platform provides attendance, roster management, claims processing, and performance appraisal tools to help you organise your HR operations and manage employee data effectively.

Try Adaptive Pay

Discover how Adaptive Pay HRMS in Singapore can support your company’s workforce growth. Request a demo on their website to see exactly how it can help your business maximise the benefits of Budget 2025.

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Synthetic Camphor Market: Key Trends, Growth Drivers, and Global Market Analysis - UnivDatos

According to a new report by UnivDatos, Synthetic Camphor Market, is expected to reach USD 628.2 Million in 2032 by growing at a CAGR of 5.8%. The synthetic camphor market faces both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, the rising consumer preference for natural ingredients in products could pose a challenge, prompting manufacturers to innovate with sustainable sourcing and production methods. Regulatory scrutiny regarding the safety and purity of synthetic camphor in various applications also impacts market dynamics. For instance - In the European Union (EU), regulatory authorities have implemented strict policies under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation for chemicals, including synthetic camphor. The REACH regulation mandates companies to assess and manage the risks associated with chemicals they manufacture and market in the EU. This includes synthetic camphor used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other products. Compliance with REACH requirements ensures that synthetic camphor meets stringent safety and environmental standards, thereby influencing market access and product development.

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Looking ahead, the synthetic camphor market is poised for growth driven by expanding applications in pharmaceuticals, personal care, and food industries. Innovations in production techniques to enhance purity and sustainability will be pivotal. Companies are likely to focus on diversifying their product portfolios and expanding into emerging markets to capitalize on growing consumer demand. Collaboration with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and build consumer trust will also be essential. Furthermore, educating consumers about the benefits and safety of synthetic camphor compared to natural alternatives will play a vital role in shaping market perceptions and driving adoption. By leveraging these strategies, stakeholders can navigate challenges and unlock new opportunities in the evolving synthetic camphor market.

Government Policies Supporting the Synthetic Camphor Industry

Government policies can significantly impact the Synthetic Camphor industry, especially those that promote industry growth. Some key policies that can support the Synthetic Camphor industry include:

1. Regulatory Support: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States sets regulations for the use of synthetic camphor in pharmaceuticals and ensures compliance with safety and quality standards through rigorous testing and approval processes.

2. Research and Development Incentives: The Indian government's Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) offers financial assistance and grants to pharmaceutical companies and research institutions conducting R&D in synthetic camphor production technologies.

3.       Export Promotion: The Chinese government provides export subsidies and participates in international trade agreements (e.g., ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement) that reduce tariffs on synthetic camphor exports, promoting competitiveness in global markets.

4. Tax Incentives: Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) offers tax incentives such as pioneer status and investment allowances to attract investments in synthetic camphor manufacturing facilities, supporting industry growth and technology adoption.

5. Infrastructure Development: The Government of Japan invests in industrial parks and transportation infrastructure in regions like Osaka and Yokohama, supporting the logistical needs of synthetic camphor manufacturers and facilitating efficient production and distribution.

6. Environmental Regulations: The European Union's REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation sets stringent environmental and health standards for synthetic camphor production and use, ensuring sustainability and safety.

7. Trade Policies: The Australian government negotiates bilateral trade agreements with countries like Indonesia and Thailand, facilitating the import of raw materials for synthetic camphor production and promoting export opportunities for Australian-manufactured products.

Overall, government policies that support the Synthetic Camphor industry focus on regulatory oversight, R&D incentives, export promotion, tax benefits, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and trade facilitation to foster growth and competitiveness in the global market.

For a detailed analysis of the Synthetic Camphor Market browse through – https://univdatos.com/reports/synthetic-camphor-market

Conclusion

In conclusion, government policies play a pivotal role in fostering a conducive environment for the Synthetic Camphor industry across the globe. Regulatory frameworks ensure safety and quality standards, while incentives for research and development spur innovation and technological advancements. Export promotion measures enhance market competitiveness, supported by infrastructure development initiatives that streamline production and distribution networks. Tax incentives further incentivize investment, while stringent environmental regulations ensure sustainable practices. Ultimately, these comprehensive policies not only support the growth of the Synthetic Camphor industry but also contribute to its global competitiveness and environmental sustainability in the long term.