13 Nov, 2017
European Commission awards Paris as most innovative European city in 2017
Lisbon, 7 November 2017, European Commission – Press release — Today, the European Commission awarded the 2017 European Capital of Innovation (iCapital) prize of €1,000,000 to Paris (France). The iCapital award, granted under the EU’s research and innovation programme Horizon 2020, recognises Paris for its inclusive innovation strategy. Tallinn (Estonia) and Tel Aviv (Israel) were […]
more…13 Nov, 2017
Combatting fake news: European Commission sets up High-Level Expert Group, launches public consultation
Brussels, 13 November 2017, European Commission – Press release – The Commission launched today a public consultation on fake news and online disinformation and set up a High-Level Expert Group representing academics, online platforms, news media and civil society organisations. The work of the High-Level Expert Group as well as the results of the public […]
more…13 Nov, 2017
Chula Univ conf on Asian diaspora gives new meaning to “Thainess”
Bangkok – The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s latest marketing campaign, “Open to the New Shades of Thailand”, positions the kingdom as being welcoming to people of all “shades” regardless of caste, creed, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Packaged under the theme of “Thainess”, the campaign pitch presses all the normal tourism marketing buttons – culture, […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
World Economic Forum Launches Platform to Map Global Transformation
Dubai, 9 November 2017 (WEF media release) – Today the World Economic Forum opens access to its Transformation Maps – a dynamic knowledge tool covering more than 100 industries, countries and issues shaping the modern world. The Forum’s Transformation Maps were first developed in 2015 as a tool for understanding and visualizing industries, countries and […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
Governments mull new UN migration agenda for the Asia-Pacific
Bangkok, 6 November 2017, (ESCAP News) — The Asia-Pacific Regional Preparatory Meeting for the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, opened in Bangkok this week with a call for governments in the region to take action through economic, social and environmental policies to safeguard the rights and interests of all migrants, high- and […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
At Bonn conference, Global Trades Union demand Just Transition to a zero-carbon future
Brussels, 6 November 2017, (International Trade Union Confederation OnLine) – The UN climate talks in Bonn open this week to discuss how to deliver the promises of the historic 2015 Paris Agreement to stay below a 2°C increase in average temperatures, and ensure a Just Transition to a zero-carbon future for workers and their communities. […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
Bonn: UN climate conference aims for greater ambition as 2017 set to be among top three hottest years
United Nations, 6 November 2017, UN News – The United Nations Climate Conference opened on Monday in Bonn, Germany, with the aim of a greater ambition for climate action, as the world body’s weather agency issued a stark warning that 2017 is set to be among the three hottest years on record. The Bonn Conference […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
Corruption hits most vulnerable; obliterates faith in good governance, UN chief tells forum in Vienna
United Nations, 6 November 2017, UN News – Corruption can strike anywhere and deny people’s hope of a better future, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres told the world’s largest anti-corruption forum which opened Monday in Vienna, while urging global leaders to set positive examples and restore faith in good governance. “I have seen how corruption […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
Journalism under fire amid rise of ‘fake news’ and social media-driven echo chambers – UNESCO report
United Nations, 6 November 2017, UN News Centre – The media industry, which remains the primary source of news and information in the digital age, faces both vast opportunities and steep challenges, the United Nations cultural agency said on Monday in its flagship analysis of new trends in media freedom, pluralism, independence and the safety […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
Protect environment from wars and conflicts, UN urges on International Day
United Nations, 6 November 2017, UN News – Commemorating the international day for lessening the impact of armed conflicts and wars on the environment, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the need to recognize that environment is also a victim of fighting. “Whether caused by fighting or a breakdown in Government control, the damage to […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
Bonn: UN climate conference to focus on ways of implementing Paris accord
United Nations,3 November 2017, UN News – One year after the entry into force of the Paris Agreement on climate change, the Bonn Conference, which opened on 6 November in Germany, is an opportunity for nations around the world to show their ambition for climate action and their determination to keep their promises. “While Paris […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
People without nationality face ‘stark realities’ of discrimination and persecution – UN report
United Nations,3 November 2017, UN News – Discrimination, exclusion and persecution are stark realities for many of the world’s stateless minorities, the United Nations refugee agency warned in a new report, calling for immediate action to secure equal nationality rights for all. “Stateless people are just seeking the same basic rights that all citizens enjoy. […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
UN backed-report highlights how business can help achieve Global Goal on Peace, Justice and Inclusive Societies
United Nations, 3 November 2017, UN News – Through anti-corruption measures, promoting diversity and supporting justice initiatives, companies play a crucial role in achieving targets in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development on building accountable and inclusive institutions, according to a report released Friday by a United Nations-backed global fund. “While the notion of peace […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
Thousands of Rohingyas cross into Bangladesh overnight; child malnutrition soars in camps – UN
United Nations, 3 November 2017, UN News – As more than 3,000 desperate, tired and hungry Rohingya refugees have crossed into Bangladesh from Myanmar over the past two days, United Nations agencies and their partners are working around the clock to provide urgent life-saving aid and shelter to this latest influx. “Most people I talked […]
more…9 Nov, 2017
OECD strengthens global response to tax crime
Paris, OECD News release, 08/11/2017 – More than 200 global tax and economic crime experts have identified key areas for international action following the Fifth OECD Forum on Tax and Crime, in London. In a week dominated by media coverage of offshore issues, the Forum brought experts on tax, customs, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, policing, and […]
more…8 Nov, 2017
TripAdvisor removed warnings about rapes and injuries at Mexico resorts, tourists say
Did anyone express worry, describe problems or share experiences that might serve as warnings? The public had no way to know. The posts had all been removed from the forum. In their place was a message from TripAdvisor that cited various reasons for the deletions: They were “determined to be inappropriate by the TripAdvisor community,” […]
more…8 Nov, 2017
Former Indian PM denounces “tax terrorism” under Modi govt, says “winds of change” blowing in Gujarat
Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 08 November 2017 – Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday slammed Narendra Modi government for implementation of demonetisation and the GST. Singh said that demonetisation was a “complete disaster” for the country’s economy and chided the Modi government for not having learnt “any lessons” from what he called the “monumental blunder.” Singh, […]
more…8 Nov, 2017
Banyan Tree Holdings only Asian travel company in Ethical Corporate Governance Awards 2017
LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–03 November 2017 — Banyan Tree Holdings, Singapore Telecom, Media Prima and Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) are among a carefully selected group of companies recognised in the Ethical Boardroom Corporate Governance Awards 2017 for their excellence in corporate governance. Organisations that value ethics and transparency, and work towards meaningful engagement […]
more…8 Nov, 2017
OECD updates country profiles on transfer pricing legislation and practices
Paris, OECD news release, 06/11/2017 – The OECD has published updated versions of transfer pricing country profiles (TPCP), reflecting the current transfer pricing legislation and practices of 31 participating countries. The country profiles contain up-to-date and harmonised information on key aspects of transfer pricing legislation, provided by countries themselves. Following the outcome of the OECD/G20 […]
more…8 Nov, 2017
The Delta Way: Outsourcing US-India Flights and American Crew Jobs To Foreign Partners
By Kevin Mitchell – November 6, 2017 Americans for Fair Skies, the anti-Open Skies lobbying arm of Delta Air Lines, argued yet again in recently tweeting that competition from Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways (Gulf Carriers) has driven Delta out of the non-stop US-India market. This repetitious political soundbite could not be further […]
more…8 Nov, 2017
UN Security Council Presidential Statement Calls on Myanmar to End Excessive Military Force, Intercommunal Violence in Rakhine State
United Nations, 06 November 2017 — Calling on the Myanmar Government to end the excessive military force and intercommunal violence that had devastated the Rohingya community in Rakhine State, the Security Council this afternoon urged the implementation of agreed‑upon mechanisms to assist return of those who have fled and to ensure access for humanitarian aid. […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
Uber Pledges $5 Million to Prevent xxxual Assault and Domestic Violence
SAN FRANCISCO, 6 November 2017, (BUSINESS WIRE) – Uber today announced a $5 million commitment over five years as part of its “Driving Change” campaign for sexual assault and domestic violence awareness and prevention initiatives in partnership with groups including Raliance, the National Network to End Domestic Violence and NO MORE. These groups began working […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
Transparency International: Time to Clean up The Offshore Financial Havens
5 November 2017, Transparency International News –The ‘Paradise Papers’ revelations published on 5 November by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) and its partners show how the rich and powerful around the world are able to hide wealth through complex and opaque financial structures which allow them to keep their business dealings secret. These secret […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
Islamic Group Offers U.S. Religious Institutions Security Advice Following Church Massacre
WASHINGTON, D.C., 6 November 2017, CAIR News – The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the U.S.’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today offered security advice to religious institutions nationwide that are considering instituting additional safety measures in response to yesterday’s massacre at a Texas church. CAIR is urging all houses of worship to take […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
ParadisePapers Leaks Expose How Offshore Gurus Help Rich Avoid Taxes on Private Jets and Yachts
6 November 2017, International Consortium of Investigative Journalists – Formula One auto racing star Lewis Hamilton got a new luxury jet, a $27 million candy-apple-red Bombardier Challenger 605 with Armani curtains. He also got a refund on the value-added tax. And the lawyers at Appleby, an elite law firm founded in Bermuda, were there to […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
P&G releases “Citizenship Report” branding itself as “A Force For Good And A Force For Growth”
CINCINNATI, 1 November 2017, (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) — The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) today released its 2017 Citizenship Report, detailing progress in improving social conditions for those in need, advancing Diversity & Inclusion, building a world free from gender bias inside and outside the Company and reducing its environmental footprint. As P&G operates in about […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
How Israel profits by exporting its “security apparatus” oppression to America
By Ramzy Baroud Jeddah, Arab News, 31 October 2017, US Senate Bill S.720 should have been a wake-up call. The legislation drafted by the Israel lobby group, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), would punish any individual or company that boycotts Israel with a fine of up to $1 million and up to 20 […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
Oxfam: Powerful film shows how global tax dodgers hit the poor where it really hurts
London, 07 Nov 2017, Oxfam International media release — Yesterday’s leak of millions of documents in the Paradise Papers has once again revealed the dark and murky world of tax dodging. From prominent politicians and celebrities to global corporate giants, tax dodgers have once again been exposed for not paying their fair share. Tax dodging […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
New YouGov research: Thai social media is missing a trick by ignoring baby boomers
Thailand, 7 November 2017, YouGov News – Millennials and baby boomers in Thailand feel they are represented better by the media than by advertising, according to new YouGov Omnibus research. The online survey comparing the opinions of respondents born between the mid-1940s and mid-1960s (baby boomers) and between the early 1980s and mid-1990s (millennials), asked […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
Petronas ICT launches programme to nurture “Brilliant Young Minds”
KUALA LUMPUR, 2 November 2017, (Bernama) — PETRONAS ICT Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of PETRONAS recently concluded its inaugural CSI programme named ‘The Brilliant Young Minds”, when participants at the programme showcase pitched to a panel of judges real-world solutions they had developed for the oil and gas industry. The Brilliant Young Minds […]
more…7 Nov, 2017
Thailand Halal Assembly 2017 to focus on the Power of Halal Wisdom
Bangkok – For the fourth time, the Thailand Halal Assembly 2017, to be held in Bangkok between 30 November – 3 December 2017, will converge the themes of Science, Technology, and Islamic Arts under a powerful unified concept of Halal Wisdom. This year’s Assembly, the fourth in a series of annual events, is expected to […]
more…3 Nov, 2017
A deeper look at the global trend towards assertion of identity
By Chandra Muzaffar News reports about communities and regions asserting their identity are capturing media headlines everywhere. While the media gives a lot of coverage to an event or action connected with the phenomenon — a referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan or a vote in the Catalonian parliament — the reasons that explain the assertion of […]
more…3 Nov, 2017
3 million Americans carry loaded handguns every day, study finds
Source: American Journal of Public Health. Published Online: October 19, 2017 Authors: Ali Rowhani-Rahbar MD, PhD, MPH, Deborah Azrael PhD, Vivian H. Lyons MPH, Joseph A. Simonetti MD, MPH, and Matthew Miller MD, ScDAuthor affiliations, information, and correspondence details Objectives. To determine the frequency of loaded handgun carrying among US adult handgun owners, characterize those […]
more…3 Nov, 2017
Flashback 25 years: The speech that exposes U.S. airline U-turns, hypocrisy and double standards
In March 1992, at the 41st PATA annual conference in Hong Kong, Mr Robert Crandall, former Chairman and President of American Airlines, and Chairman of the World Travel & Tourism Council, delivered the keynote address in which he castigated Hong Kong, the conference host, plus Thailand, Japan and Korea, for protecting the interests of their […]
more…3 Nov, 2017
This university leads in world’s first essay competition on Tourism and SDGs
Fifty-four multinational students from the University of Monterrey, Mexico, have taken the lead in sending their submissions to the world’s first essay competition on how Travel & Tourism can contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Launched on Sept 21, 2017, the UN International Day of Peace, The Olive Tree Awards essay competition invites young […]
more…1 Nov, 2017
Australian study reveals startling stats on gambling-related mental & health problems
Canberra, 26 October 2017, (Australian Institute of Family Studies Media release) – Nearly one million Australians regularly gamble on horse and dog racing with a high proportion of them experiencing one or more gambling-related problems, according to new analysis by the Australian Gambling Research Centre (AGRC), Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS). AGRC researcher, Dr […]
more…1 Nov, 2017
VOICES: New publication launched to highlight importance of ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community
JAKARTA, 30 October 2017 (ASEAN secretariat) – The ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Department of the ASEAN Secretariat launched the maiden issue of VOICES: Bulletin of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) today. This is a new quarterly bulletin which serves as a communication tool to keep ASEAN people informed on issues that have a direct impact on […]
more…1 Nov, 2017
Conservation of Hong Kong working class housing tops 2017 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards
BANGKOK, 1 November 2017 (UNSCO media release) — The revitalization of the working class “Blue House Cluster” in Hong Kong, China, has received the Award of Excellence in this year’s UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. Sixteen projects from six countries – Australia, China, India, Iran, New Zealand, and Singapore – were recognized in […]
more…22 Oct, 2017
“Selling Girls,” Original Investigation into U.S. Child Sex Trafficking, shown on TEGNA Station Digital Platforms
MCLEAN, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) announced today the premiere of “Selling Girls,” a six-part digital, episodic series investigating sex trafficking of children in America. Produced by award-winning investigative news teams from WXIA in Atlanta and KHOU in Houston, the entire series of “Selling Girls” rolls out first on TEGNA stations’ digital platforms beginning today, […]
more…10 Oct, 2017
Inspired by Iceland Launches ‘The Hardest Karaoke Song in the World’
REYKJAVIK, Iceland, October 9, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Inspired by Iceland, known for its quirky campaigns and warm humour, has today launched a unique challenge via the ‘Inspired By Iceland’ website for tourists around the world. Harnessing the island’s language, which is notoriously difficult to learn, Inspired by Iceland has released what it claims to be […]
more…10 Oct, 2017
U.K. Home Office accused of racial profiling against British citizens
Members of Parliament and human rights lawyers are calling on the Home Office to review how immigration officers carry out spot checks after data suggested that they were using racial profiling and stopping Britons. The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, working with the media co-operative, The Bristol Cable, has obtained new Home Office data. The data […]
more…10 Oct, 2017
Australian amnesty sees 50,000+ firearms being handed in
Canberra, 06 October 2017, (Prime Minister of Australia News)–Australia’s 3 month National Firearms Amnesty has led to more than 50,000 firearms being handed in across Australia. This is an overwhelming response and represents a significant reduction in the number of unregistered firearms in the Australian community. Australia has some of the strongest gun laws in the […]
more…9 Oct, 2017
Chinese debate: Have overseas degrees lost their value?
Beijing, 2017-09-18 – China Daily Editor’s Note: During the past few decades, the social opinion on overseas education has changed. News reports about youths returning after studying abroad, which costs hundreds of thousands of dollars, but ending up with low-paying jobs have made people wonder whether it’s still worth sending their children overseas for education. […]
more…9 Oct, 2017
American-Islamic Council Files Legal Challenge to Trump’s ‘Muslim Ban 3.0’
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 10/8/17) — The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced the filing of a federal lawsuit on behalf of six individuals challenging the lawfulness of President Trump’s most recent attempt to implement a “Muslim ban.” The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court for […]
more…7 Oct, 2017
On World Smile Day, Operation Smile marks 35 years with “Until We Heal” campaign
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (PRWEB) October 06, 2017 — From World Smile Day on October 6, to Giving Tuesday on November 28, Operation Smile will celebrate its 35th anniversary by simultaneously hosting medical, training and education programs around the world, impacting more than 5,000 patients, medical and nonmedical volunteers, and in-country healthcare workers. This ambitious effort […]
more…7 Oct, 2017
Hotel Safety Under Scrutiny Following Las Vegas Shooting
(PRWEB) October 07, 2017 (Stokes Wagner media release) — On Sunday, October 1, 2017, a gunman shot into a crowd of 22,000 people from his 32nd-story room in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. After 11 minutes, 59 people were killed and more than 500 were injured. Whether hotels can or will respond to this […]
more…7 Oct, 2017
With recovery on track, PATA extends CEO’s contract for another three years
Bangkok – The Pacific Asia Travel Association has confirmed the extension of CEO Mario Hardy’s contract for another three year term starting Jan 2018, a move that will facilitate the slow but steady recovery of the region’s once high-flying industry association. Mr Hardy signed the extension contract on Oct 5. In a message to the […]
more…3 Oct, 2017
Globocop, gambling, fake news and security morons: Eight issues emerging from the Las Vegas tragedy
Apparently unnoticed by any mainstream media, the tragic Las Vegas shooting occurred on the UN International Day of Non-Violence, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. Going right to the heart of multiple challenges threatening the future of travel & tourism, it should force some heavy-duty, industry-wide soul-searching about how to deal with them. A deeper debate […]
more…2 Oct, 2017
Israel covers up role in Myanmar crimes against Rohingya
Israel is attempting to bury information about its arms sales to the military regime in Myanmar, which the UN accuses of a “brutal” campaign against the country’s Muslim Rohingya population, amounting to a “textbook example of ethnic cleansing.” Hundreds of thousands of Rohingyas have fled their homes as the military and Buddhist mobs burn their […]
more…2 Oct, 2017
Thailand Media Panel Discussion Oct 3: Rakhine State – Southeast Asia’s ethnic flashpoint
Bangkok — The Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand will be holding a panel discussion on the topics of “Rakhine State – Southeast Asia’s ethnic flashpoint” at 7pm, Tuesday 03 October, 2017. The event announcement says: People around ASEAN and well beyond are watching with mounting concern as some 400,000 Rohingyas face potentially permanent displacement into […]
more…1 Oct, 2017
Myanmar tells UN Security Council: It’s all “malicious and unsubstantiated chatter”
United Nations, 28 Sept 2017 – Amid an escalating crisis in northern Rakhine state in Myanmar, United Nations Secretary-General today urged its Government to end military operations, allow unfettered access to those in need, and ensure the safe and voluntary return of displaced Rohingya to their homes. “The situation has spiralled into the world’s fastest-developing […]
more…1 Oct, 2017
UN Secretary-General warns: Rohingya crisis could spiral into wider, regional inter-communal strife
United Nations, Sept 28 — Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks at the open debate of the Security Council on Myanmar, in New York today: On 2 September, I wrote to this Council urging concerted efforts to prevent further escalation of the crisis in northern Rakhine State. I am encouraged that the Council has discussed […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
Israeli newspaper of courage calls on its military to stop arming criminals in Myanmar
Tel Aviv — Lawmakers from across the spectrum should come together to put an immediate stop to Israel’s weapons sales to Myanmar, where crimes against humanity are being committed, according to the lead editorial published on Sep 27 in Israel’s newspaper of courage, Ha’aretz. In its second editorial this month on the same subject, the […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
Chile projects tourism to hit new record in 2017
SANTIAGO DE CHILE, Sept 28 (NNN-PRENSA LATINA)–The Chilean Tourism industry is on the verge of meeting its goals for 2017, with record figures after the arrival this year of more than 6.4 million tourists, official sources confirmed today. Minister of Economy and Tourism Jorge Rodriguez Grossi praised the promotional work by Chile in the current […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
United Nations: Act Now to End and Remedy Crimes Against Humanity in Myanmar
NEW YORK and BANGKOK, September 28, 2017, Fortify Rights media release — The United Nations Security Council and U.N. member states should act urgently to impose an arms embargo on the Myanmar military and targeted sanctions on individuals responsible for atrocity crimes against Rohingya Muslims and others in Rakhine State, Fortify Rights said today. U.N. […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
India: AirAsia, Zoomcar Partner for Rental Car Service
MUMBAI, India Sept 28 (NNN-PTI) — Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia yesterday said it has teamed up with self-drive car rental company Zoomcar to provide mobility solutions to its customers to and from airports. The facility will be available to all group airlines including AirAsia-India. The tie-up allows AirAsia guests to book Zoomcar for their local […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
Malaysia Airports to Offer Alipay Service For Chinese Tourists
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia Sept 28 (NNN-Bernama) — Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has partnered China’s Ant Financial Services Group to offer the Alipay service for Chinese tourists travelling in the country. Managing Director, Badlisham Ghazali, said Malaysia airports hoped to created awareness, boost interest and also strengthen its brand positioning among Chinese travellers through the […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
Abu Dhabi Hotels See 13% Rise in Guests in Aug
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, Sept 28 (NNN-WAM) – Abu Dhabi witnessed a dramatic double-digit increase, in the number of hotel guests in Aug, compared with the same period in 2016, helping to push up the total number of guests staying in the emirate, to more than 3.1 million, in the first eight months of […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
Bahrain Airport Ad Contract Awarded to French-Based JCDecaux
MANAMA, Bahrain, Sept 28 (NNN-BNA) – Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), and the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, awarded the airport’s much coveted advertising contract to the Paris-based outdoor advertising agency JCDecaux. The signing ceremony was attended by the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Engineer Kamal […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
3 Million Reusable Bags Given to Malaysian Consumers in 2017 to slow the Plastic Tide
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 27 (Bernama) — It’s quite easy to picture a row of children proudly waving the Jalur Gemilang during our Merdeka celebrations, or hundreds of Malaysians singing Negaraku at the annual Independence Day parade. Now, try to imagine five trillion plastic bags lining the ground of our beloved Mother Earth. You may be […]
more…29 Sep, 2017
Malaysia Received 1.8 Million Thai Tourists Last Year
BANGKOK, Thailand, Sept 28, (NNN-Bernama) — About 1.8 million tourists from Thailand visited Malaysia last year, a growth of 32.5 per cent compared to the corresponding period in 2015, according to the Tourism Malaysia Thailand. The trend of strong growth in tourist arrivals from Thailand is expected to continue this year, says its director, Abdul […]
more…28 Sep, 2017
Thailand first to make UN SDGs a criteria for National Tourism Awards
Bangkok – The Tourism Authority of Thailand raised its bi-annual industry awards to a new level this year by including the principles of the national Sufficiency Economy and the global UN Sustainable Development Goals as core components of the judging criteria. It is arguably the first time any country has made the UN SDGs a […]
more…21 Sep, 2017
US$4,000 prize money for first global essay competition linking Travel & Tourism to UN Sustainable Development Goals
Bangkok – Today, Sept 21 2017, Travel Impact Newswire marks the United Nations International Day of Peace by launching an essay competition on how Travel & Tourism can contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The Olive Tree Awards essay competition is claimed to be the first of its kind in the global Travel & […]
more…20 Sep, 2017
10-Point Plan to Stop Tropical Forest Deforestation Launched
New York City, USA, 19 September 2017 – The World Economic Forum-hosted Tropical Forest Alliance 2020 is advocating a 10-point plan to remove deforestation from commodity supply chains by 2020. Aimed at company executives, policy-makers and civil society leaders, the Commodities and Forests Agenda 2020 plan lays out strategies to address one of the biggest […]
more…20 Sep, 2017
Myanmar proves that women leaders are no better than the men
Bangkok – In February 2012, just a few months before the end of his five-year term, the then ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Surin Pitsuwan spoke at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand on the topic of “ASEAN and Change in Myanmar”. During the Q&A, I asked him if Myanmar had a chance to exercise the Last […]
more…19 Sep, 2017
China-ASEAN collaboration brings tourism boom
Beijing, Xinhua, 2017-09-15 – Vincent Hou, a tour guide from Brunei, speaks Mandarin thanks to practicing with Chinese tourists. “I can speak Cantonese, Hakka, Malay, English and Mandarin, so it’s no wonder that I had an accent when speaking Mandarin. But my customers from the Chinese mainland, especially the elderly, often corrected me,” said Hou, […]
more…19 Sep, 2017
Integration or disIntegration: Democracy and human rights at risk as ASEAN turns 50, parliamentarians warn
MANILA, 19 September 2017, APHR media release — As the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) celebrates its 50th year of existence, the region faces a human rights crisis and the future of democracy is at risk, ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) said today. Speaking at a press conference in Manila, lawmakers from Malaysia […]
more…19 Sep, 2017
Maritime link between Songkhla – Penang in the pipeline
BANGKOK, Thailand Sept 15 (NNN-Bernama) — Malaysia’s proposal for a better connectivity between Songkla Port in southern Thailand and Penang Port has received a thumbs-up from Thai Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha. The premier said both countries would intensify discussions on the matter as it could be of mutual benefit. “We share the border, so, […]
more…19 Sep, 2017
World Bank: Enabling tourism could help lift Palestinian economic growth to 7%
JERUSALEM, September 12, 2017 (World Bank press release) – The World Bank released a report today that calls for a new vision for the Palestinian economy that can lift growth to an average of 7 percent per year. While recognizing the critical importance of a political settlement, the report argues that measures over the medium […]
more…19 Sep, 2017
Bangkok summit to mull escalating HIV/AIDS epidemic, fuelled by Gay X
BANGKOK, September 18, 2017 (APCOM media release): Some of the Asia Pacific region’s leading health, rights and community advocates have lent their support to a special summit in Bangkok in November aimed at revitalizing the region’s response to the HIV epidemic and its impact on vulnerable communities. The RRRAP Summit – which stands for Rights, […]
more…16 Sep, 2017
Many Businesses Still Fail to Report Financial Value from Strong Environmental Performance – Research
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE) — September 13, 2017 – Four in 10 telecommunications and consumer goods companies reporting to CDP fail to capture or report any financial value from strong environmental performance, according to new research released today by Accenture (NYSE: ACN), CDP and Hermes Investment Management. The largest emitters in the global economy – responsible […]
more…15 Sep, 2017
Permanent People’s Tribunal on Myanmar to be held in Kuala Lumpur 18-22 Sept
Kuala Lumpur, 15 Sept (International Movement for a Just World) – The Permanent Peoples Tribunal’s concluding session on Myanmar which will convene at the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur from the 18th to the 22nd of September 2017 has assumed extraordinary significance in light of the UN Security Council’s unanimous call […]
more…13 Sep, 2017
Lecture: “In Search of a Prophet” – Kahlil Gibran: An Unparalleled Guide for Our Times
Washington DC — Paul-Gordon Chandler. Author, Interfaith Advocate, and Art Curator, will be delivering a special lecture on his newly-published book “In Search of a Prophet” which traces the life and work of the Lebanese-American poet Kahlil Gibran. The lecture will be held on September 15, 2017, 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm at the The […]
more…13 Sep, 2017
Jewish Rabbi slags Israel for travel curbs on activists, Palestinians
A female Jewish rabbi has rebuked the Jewish state of Israel for barring inbound travel by pro-Palestinian activists, including herself, as well as for blocking travel in and out of occupied Palestine in general. In a Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur message to global members of the pro-Palestinian group Jewish Voice for Peace, its Deputy […]
more…11 Sep, 2017
Israel blamed for arming Myanmar amidst anti-Rohingya atrocities
CAIRO, Egypt, Sept 10 (NNN-MENA) – Human rights groups criticised Israel, for the continued sale of weaponry to the Myanmar junta, amid violence against Rohingya Muslims, local media reported, on Saturday. More than 100 tanks, as well as, boats and light weapons have been sold to the Myanmar government by Israeli arms companies, investigations by […]
more…11 Sep, 2017
Indonesian MPs issue united call for immediate action to halt Myanmar atrocities in Rakhine State
JAKARTA, 11 September 2017 (ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights statement) — Indonesian lawmakers from multiple parties issued a joint call from the halls of Parliament today for an immediate end to atrocities in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, urging their own government to do more to help resolve the crisis, including by exercising regional leadership to get […]
more…11 Sep, 2017
R.I.P. Inder Sharma – The Indian stalwart who brought China into PATA
Bangkok – Much has been written in praise of Mr Inder Sharma, the Indian travel & tourism stalwart who passed away on Sept 5 at the age of 86. The award-winning chairman of SITA World Travel was indeed one of India’s most eminent personalities – a thorough professional of impeccable integrity and formidable intellect, equally […]
more…9 Sep, 2017
Asia-Pacific environmental crime fighters recognized for tackling illegal trade in chemicals, hazardous waste
Bangkok, 7 September 2017: (UNEP media release): Poor enforcement of environmental regulations is a major problem in the travel & tourism industry. Industry events looking for award-winning crime-fighters to address them as speakers on the challenge may find it useful to contact any of the eight winners of this year’s Asia Environmental Enforcement Awards. Enforcement […]
more…9 Sep, 2017
Ridesharing helps injured workers meet medical appointments, improve transparency
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Sept 7 — Digital devices and mobile applications are breathing new life into traditional workers’ compensation services—this was a key takeaway from the session, “Ridesharing Technology: Transforming Transportation in Workers’ Compensation,” presented at the 2017 California Workers’ Compensation & Risk Conference in Dana Point, California. “Until recently, the workers’ compensation industry relied […]
more…9 Sep, 2017
Research study: Alcohol industry misleading the public about cancer risk
London, 8 September 2017 (London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine) – The alcohol industry (AI) is misrepresenting evidence about the alcohol-related risk of cancer with activities that have parallels with those of the tobacco industry, according to new research published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Review. Led by the London School of Hygiene […]
more…9 Sep, 2017
FREE Download: Amadeus report pinpoints why travelers click “Buy” at the Moment of Truth
MADRID–(BUSINESS WIRE)–September 07, 2017 — A new report published today by Amadeus, ‘Embracing airline digital transformation: a spotlight on what travelers value’, sheds new light on what travelers value when shopping for a flight. Today retailers from a multitude of sectors have reinvented the customer experience. However, the challenge often lies in working out what […]
more…9 Sep, 2017
Insurance claims clarified as hurricane season disrupts travel across the Caribbean and Southeast U.S.
STEVENS POINT, Wis.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–September 08, 2017 — Nearly two weeks after Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas, Hurricane Irma is on a path to wreak havoc on the Caribbean and Florida, already forcing cancelled flights and cancelled, shortened and rerouted cruise vacations. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP.com) offers travelers tips on the ins and outs […]
more…4 Sep, 2017
Sponsorship support grows for landmark SDG publication, The Olive Tree
Bangkok — The September-October 2017 of The Olive Tree, the first and only publication designed to help travel & tourism become a more enthusiastic part of the solution in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, has just been published. Click here to download FREE. September is an important month for global travel & tourism. The […]
more…1 Sep, 2017
World Bank Group to boost funding for peace-building and development in Mindanao
WASHINGTON, August 31, 2017 (World Bank media release) — The World Bank Group will scale up support for peace-building and development in Mindanao as part of the midterm adjustment of its country partnership strategy. This follows the completion of the Performance and Learning Review report (PLR) endorsed today by the World Bank’s Board of Executive […]
more…31 Aug, 2017
Air Travel to Totality Cities Nearly Doubled for Aug 21 U.S. Solar Eclipse
ARLINGTON, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–August 30, 2017 – The August 21 solar eclipse proved to be a highlight of the 2017 summer travel season as air travel to U.S. cities located along the path of totality nearly doubled for the weekend prior to the eclipse compared to 2016*, according to analysis by the Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC). The […]
more…29 Aug, 2017
Construction of Thailand-China high-speed railway to start in October
Bangkok, 20 August 2017, (Xinhua) — China and Thailand are working together to sign two contracts of the first phase of Thailand-China railway project in September to begin the construction work of the first section in October, Chinese Embassy in Bangkok said in a statement Saturday. According to the statement, the two countries concluded negotiations of […]
more…29 Aug, 2017
Guizhou becomes 6th Chinese regional govt to ban alcohol at official events
22 August 2017, (China Daily) — Guizhou government has banned serving of all alcohol at official functions for civil servants effective from Sept 1. Rolling out the strictest regulation, the government said no alcohol, including those offered by individuals or organizations, will be served at official receptions and functions. It bans civil servants from using […]
more…26 Aug, 2017
UN rights experts criticize US failure to unequivocally reject racist violent events
United Nations, (UN News Centre) 23 August 2017 – The United Nations body monitoring implementation of the global convention on prohibiting racial discrimination has called on high-level politicians and public officials of the United States to unequivocally and unconditionally reject and condemn racist hate speech and crimes in Charlottesville and throughout the country. “We are […]
more…24 Aug, 2017
China’s middle class face peer pressure to send kids on study tours abroad
Beijing, 10 August 2017, (Global Times) — China’s urban middle class are under growing peer pressure to send their kids on expensive study tours abroad which have become the latest fad. Recently, a post titled “A monthly salary of 30,000 yuan could not afford [my] child’s summer holiday” has been widely circulated on social networks […]
more…24 Aug, 2017
Thai Foreign Ministry fam trip spotlights double-edged future facing the Kingdom
Bangkok – Courtesy of the Thai Foreign Ministry, 16 Bangkok-based foreign correspondents were treated to a whirlwind 15-hour fam trip on Aug 18 which spotlighted the double-edged future facing Thailand. While three of the stops underscored Thailand’s positive scientific, agricultural and infrastructure progress in line with its 4.0 national development policy, the last stop was […]
more…21 Aug, 2017
Chinese Artificial Intelligence software beats doctors at diagnosing certain diseases
Beijing, (Xinhua) August 20, 2017 — After listening to the patient’s symptoms, “he” provides checklists for the patient and medical advice based on the results. Then the therapy will be verified by human doctors. A China-made AI (Artificial Intelligence)-based software made its debut Saturday at a seminar held in Hengyang City, central China’s Hunan Province. […]
more…21 Aug, 2017
Chinese Commentary: US is not a human rights paradise, nor the world’s moral leader
By Shi Feiran (People’s Daily Online) Beijing, 17 Aug 2017 – The U.S. Department of State issued its report on International Religious Freedom for 2016, once again using human rights as a political tool to interfere in the internal affairs of China, tarnish its international image, and promote U.S. strategic interests. In response to the report, […]
more…17 Aug, 2017
Next wave of U.S. white supremacist hate rallies planned on Sept 9
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 8/16/2017) — The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called on officials in cities targeted by a nationwide series of hate rallies scheduled for September 9 to step up security measures to ensure public safety. [NOTE: Earlier today, CAIR’s Minnesota chapter called on the […]
more…17 Aug, 2017
‘Racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism or Islamophobia are poisoning our societies’ – UN chief
United Nations, 16 August 2017, (UN News) – Urging people everywhere to speak out against hate speech and hate crimes, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today reiterated his call for tolerance, respect for the other and the importance of recognizing diversity. “Racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism or Islamophobia are, as I mentioned yesterday, poisoning our societies,” the […]
more…17 Aug, 2017
What Charlottesville and the emergence of white supremacists means for the future of global travel
Bangkok – The emergence of the American white supremacist movement in the streets of Charlottesville, Virginia, has opened up a Pandora’s Box of issues that will have a significant impact on travel & tourism to and from the United States and around the world. By further complicating an already unstable geopolitical environment, it will have […]
more…13 Aug, 2017
AirAsia celebrates inaugural flight from Shenzhen to Langkawi
LANGKAWI, Aug 10 (Bernama) — Low-cost airline AirAsia today welcomed its inaugural flight from Shenzhen to Langkawi with 89 percent load factor. The flight AK 1713 was greeted by a water canon salute upon arrival into Langkawi International Airport and was also received by Dato’ Haji Azizan Noordin, Chief Executive Officer, Langkawi Development Authority (LADA). […]
more…13 Aug, 2017
UNITE HERE files Federal labor charges against Anbang demanding hotel ownership disclosure
CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–August 10, 2017 – UNITE HERE this week filed federal unfair labor practice charges against Anbang Insurance Group and three of its hotel operators for failing to comply with its request for information on the firm’s ownership and sources of financing. The charges come as China-based Anbang reportedly may be under pressure to sell […]
more…12 Aug, 2017
30% of Palestinian population are millennials, aged 15-29
RAMALLAH, August 10, 2017 (WAFA) – Marking the International Youth Day and under the theme “Youth, Peace and Security”, the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) said Thursday that a third of the Palestinian society is young. Statistics show that the percentage of youth in the age group of 15 to 29 in Palestine comprises […]
more…12 Aug, 2017
Cancer-stricken Palestinian woman dies after Israel delays permit to reach hospital
GAZA, August 10, 2017 (WAFA) – A 47-year-old woman with cancer died in Gaza on Tuesday Aug 8 while waiting for an Israeli army permit to get treatment in a hospital outside Gaza, al-Mezan human rights center said on Thursday. It said Itimad Fathi Rabi, from Shabora refugee camp in Rafah, was suffering from cancer […]
more…9 Aug, 2017
ASEAN to deepen regional integration as it marks Golden Jubilee
MANILA, 8 August 2017, (ASEAN Secretariat News) – Today, ASEAN celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of its journey. To mark this golden jubilee, various commemorative activities are being carried out across the region. A tribute to the five Founding Fathers at a grand celebration of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN is scheduled today in Manila, the Philippines – […]
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