Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • ‘We can manage for now’: HK rallies with fire recovery efforts on track

    ‘We can manage for now’: HK rallies with fire recovery efforts on track

    Hong Kong’s community spirit and governmental coordination have emerged as cornerstones of the ongoing recovery efforts following last month’s devastating high-rise fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. The tragic incident, which claimed multiple lives and displaced thousands of residents, has triggered an unprecedented mobilization of resources from both central and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region governments.

    Structural safety assessments across all affected buildings were completed within a remarkable 24-hour timeframe, according to Daniel Leung Hung-wai, Deputy Director of the Housing Bureau’s Development and Construction Department. This rapid response was made possible through substantial material support from the central government, which provided critical equipment including protective gear and specialized lighting for working in pitch-black environments. Over 100 personnel conducted simultaneous operations in a large-scale demonstration of emergency response capabilities.

    The humanitarian aspect of the disaster response has seen significant progress, with transitional housing operator Lok Sin Tong Benevolent Society quickly allocating more than 20 units on the night of the blaze. The organization has since rehoused over 80 households, with rental payments waived and flexible lease agreements designed to accommodate varying recovery timelines. Project Development Manager Cherry Lee Yim-ming noted the ‘remarkable’ community mobilization that assembled vast quantities of aid supplies—from bedding and food to household appliances and cleaning products—within less than a week.

    As of recent figures, 1,369 affected residents have been accommodated in youth hostels, camps, or hotels through the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, while 2,499 have moved into transitional housing provided by the Housing Bureau and the Hong Kong Housing Society. The government’s ‘one-household, one-social worker’ mechanism has proven vital for long-term recovery planning, with care teams providing personalized assistance to vulnerable residents.

    Despite the profound personal losses experienced by many—including one resident who lost all financial cards and possessions—the collective response has provided a foundation of stability. ‘With the help from the government and all those around us, we can manage for the time being,’ one displaced resident acknowledged, capturing the tempered optimism that characterizes the ongoing recovery journey.

  • Inside UAE’s most ambitious AI model: Teaching robots how to think

    Inside UAE’s most ambitious AI model: Teaching robots how to think

    Researchers at Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) have developed PAN, a groundbreaking AI model that represents a significant leap beyond conventional video generation systems. Unlike text-to-video models like OpenAI’s Sora and Google’s Veo that focus on visual replication, PAN employs a sophisticated hybrid architecture that understands physical dynamics, cause-effect relationships, and real-world semantics.

    The system functions as a comprehensive world model, enabling robotic agents to simulate thousands of interactions within virtual environments before physical execution. This approach addresses a fundamental challenge in robotics development: the prohibitive costs and risks associated with real-world training. Where current robotics companies require hundreds of human operators and thousands of repetitive demonstrations to teach basic skills, PAN accelerates learning by approximately 430,000 times compared to physical training methods.

    Jon Carvill, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at MBZUAI, explains that PAN’s architecture combines diffusion models for visual fidelity with large language model capabilities that maintain world semantics over extended sequences. This allows the system to maintain internal memory of scene elements and object movements, updating its understanding frame-by-frame rather than generating complete videos in a single pass.

    The implications extend across multiple domains, from autonomous vehicles navigating complex traffic scenarios to household robots performing domestic tasks like laundry folding and dishwasher loading. By compressing decades of physical practice into computational hours, PAN dramatically reduces development costs and accessibility barriers for advanced robotics.

    This development positions MBZUAI at the forefront of embodied AI research—systems that understand physical consequences rather than merely recognizing data patterns. The university’s distributed development model, leveraging teams in both Abu Dhabi and Silicon Valley, has accelerated PAN’s creation through clearly defined research pipelines and global talent integration.

    Looking toward 2030, researchers envision PAN-like world models becoming the standard foundation for intelligent agents, enabling safe autonomous systems and AI that comprehends consequence rather than mere correlation.

  • Foreign media urged to report truthfully on HK matters

    Foreign media urged to report truthfully on HK matters

    The Office for Safeguarding National Security of China’s Central Government in Hong Kong has issued a formal admonition to international media organizations operating within the special administrative region. During high-level discussions held on Saturday, December 7th, 2025, the office expressed serious concerns regarding what it characterized as deliberately misleading reporting on Hong Kong affairs.

    According to the official statement, the security office specifically cited two instances of problematic coverage: distorted portrayals of the Hong Kong government’s emergency response to the catastrophic Wang Fuk Court residential complex fire, and biased reporting on the recent Legislative Council General Election. The office asserted that such coverage has exacerbated social tensions, caused emotional distress to Hong Kong residents, and presented a distorted picture to the international community.

    The security authority emphasized that foreign media outlets must comply with local regulations while maintaining journalistic integrity through adherence to truth, accuracy, objectivity, and fairness in their reporting. The office simultaneously reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the lawful rights of foreign journalists operating in Hong Kong and pledged continued support for the HKSAR government in providing necessary assistance to legitimate media activities.

    This development highlights the ongoing tensions between China’s national security framework and international media operations in Hong Kong, particularly regarding coverage sensitive to China’s governance model and political processes.

  • Lee: Vote to drive reform and help HK fire victims

    Lee: Vote to drive reform and help HK fire victims

    Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu exercised his democratic right on Sunday, December 7, 2025, casting his ballot in the eighth Legislative Council General Election. Following his vote at Raimondi College polling station in Mid-Levels, Lee issued a compelling appeal to all eligible voters across the special administrative region to participate in the electoral process.

    The Chief Executive emphasized the critical importance of selecting representatives committed to driving substantive reform while simultaneously addressing the urgent needs of victims affected by last month’s devastating Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po. The tragic incident, which claimed at least 159 lives, has highlighted the necessity for robust legislative support and systemic improvements.

    Lee praised the electoral arrangements implemented for this election, noting his voting experience was both ‘convenient and smooth.’ Special provisions included dedicated polling stations and an extended two-hour voting period designed to maximize public participation in the democratic process.

    In a significant commitment, the Chief Executive announced his intention to propose a comprehensive disaster relief motion during the inaugural session of the newly elected Legislative Council. This initiative aims to establish collaborative mechanisms between the executive and legislative branches to support affected residents through accelerated recovery and reconstruction efforts.

    ‘The first meeting of the Legislative Council will prioritize discussions on supporting disaster victims,’ Lee stated. ‘We will engage in consultations with lawmakers promptly to ascertain truth expeditiously and facilitate efficient recovery operations.’

    The election represents a pivotal moment for Hong Kong’s governance framework, balancing long-term reform objectives with immediate humanitarian response requirements following one of the territory’s most devastating residential fires in recent history.

  • SOEs do their part in HKSAR’s post-fire recovery

    SOEs do their part in HKSAR’s post-fire recovery

    In the aftermath of Hong Kong’s catastrophic Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po that resulted in at least 159 fatalities, state-owned enterprises have emerged as pivotal responders in the region’s recovery operations. These corporations have demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting affected residents during this profound tragedy.

    China Overseas Holdings, a subsidiary of China State Construction Engineering Corporation with deep roots in Hong Kong since 1979, has initiated substantial relief measures. The company has contributed HK$20 million (approximately $2.56 million) – marking its most significant single charitable donation in recent history. This corporate contribution has been further amplified by employee generosity, with staff members collectively raising an additional HK$2.08 million.

    Shi Yong, assistant general manager of China Overseas, expressed the company’s solidarity: “With sincere heartfelt care, we stand together with Hong Kong residents in overcoming the difficulties.”

    The relief efforts extend beyond financial support. China Overseas Property Holdings, one of the group’s five subsidiaries, has assumed responsibility for managing four temporary shelters operating 24/7. These facilities provide essential supplies including instant noodles, drinking water, daily necessities, and secure resting spaces for displaced individuals.

    The corporation has additionally mobilized 504 volunteers who have collectively contributed over 1,806 service hours. These volunteers deliver specialized services including professional facility maintenance, environmental cleaning and disinfection, on-site秩序 maintenance, emergency material transport, and crucially, psychological support for trauma-affected residents.

  • India aviation regulator issues show-cause notice to IndiGo CEO over flight disruptions

    India aviation regulator issues show-cause notice to IndiGo CEO over flight disruptions

    India’s aviation authority has taken formal action against the country’s largest carrier following days of operational chaos that stranded thousands of passengers nationwide. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a show-cause notice to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers on December 6, demanding an explanation within 24 hours regarding widespread flight cancellations and delays.

    The regulatory body identified systemic failures in the airline’s preparedness for newly implemented Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) requirements as the primary cause of the disruptions. According to the DGCA’s findings, IndiGo demonstrated ‘significant lapses in planning, oversight and resource management’ that constitute apparent violations of Aircraft Rules (Rule 42A) and Civil Aviation Requirements governing crew duty periods and rest provisions.

    Beyond operational shortcomings, the regulator cited passenger care deficiencies, noting the airline failed to provide mandated information and facilities to affected travelers following cancellations and delays. The notice specifically references violations of passenger rights regulations under CAR provisions.

    The aviation crisis emerged following the implementation of revised FDTL norms established by DGCA last year, which triggered an unexpected shortage of available pilots and cabin crew. Operational data from major airports reveals the scale of disruptions: Hyderabad recorded 69 cancellations, Delhi’s GMR-operated facility saw 86 IndiGo flights canceled, while Ahmedabad and Kolkata airports reported 59 and 41 cancellations respectively.

    In response to the mounting crisis, IndiGo issued a public apology on Sunday, acknowledging operational challenges while emphasizing recovery efforts. The airline stated it had operated approximately 700 flights connecting 113 destinations recently and was progressing toward operating over 1,500 daily flights. The carrier claims to have restored 95% of network connectivity, serving 135 of its 138 destinations.

  • Katy Perry goes Instagram official with Justin Trudeau

    Katy Perry goes Instagram official with Justin Trudeau

    Pop icon Katy Perry has ignited widespread speculation about a potential romantic involvement with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after sharing an intimate glimpse of their time together in Japan on her Instagram account. The 41-year-old singer posted a collection of photographs and videos from Tokyo, where she is currently performing as part of her global Lifetimes Tour.

    The social media reveal includes a particularly close selfie showing Perry and Trudeau with their faces touching, both radiating smiles. Another clip captures the pair sampling sushi together, adding fuel to growing rumors about their relationship status. The post was accompanied by the caption: “Tokyo times on tour and more.”

    This development follows months of mounting speculation about their connection, beginning when Trudeau was spotted attending Perry’s concert earlier this year. The relationship appears to have progressed significantly, as evidenced by last month’s photographs published by TMZ showing the pair walking hand-in-hand during an event in Paris coinciding with Perry’s birthday.

    The Japan trip also included diplomatic elements, with Trudeau reposting a photograph on X featuring both himself and Perry alongside former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko. Trudeau commented: “Great to see you @kishida230. Katy and I were so glad to have the chance to sit down with you and Yuko.”

    Neither Perry nor Trudeau have officially confirmed the nature of their relationship. During a recent London performance, Perry made a suggestive comment when a fan proposed to her from the audience, joking: “I wish you’d asked me 48 hours ago”—just days after images of her with Trudeau first surfaced online.

    Both individuals recently ended long-term relationships: Perry separated from actor Orlando Bloom after a decade together (they share a daughter), while Trudeau finalized his divorce from Sophie Grégoire in 2023 after 18 years of marriage (they share three children).

  • India: Tourists among at least 23 killed in Goa nightclub fire

    India: Tourists among at least 23 killed in Goa nightclub fire

    A devastating fire erupted at a nightclub in India’s popular coastal state of Goa, resulting in at least 23 fatalities including several foreign tourists. The tragedy occurred shortly after midnight at the Birch nightclub in Arpora, North Goa district, marking one of the deadliest nightlife incidents in recent memory.

    Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed the catastrophic death toll in an early Sunday statement, characterizing the event as ‘a very painful day for all of us in Goa.’ Sawant personally visited the disaster site and immediately ordered a comprehensive investigation, vowing that ‘those found responsible will face most stringent action under the law.’

    Preliminary reports from local authorities indicate three victims succumbed to burn injuries while the majority died from suffocation in the chaotic blaze. Distressing video footage captured by Press Trust of India showed emergency personnel carrying injured and deceased patrons down the establishment’s narrow stone staircase as police, paramedics, and horrified onlookers crowded the streets.

    The Chief Minister revealed the nightclub had been operating without proper permissions, stating unequivocally that ‘this tragic incident should never have happened.’ While initial speculation points to a possible cylinder blast as the ignition source, police officials emphasize that definitive conclusions await thorough investigation.

    Local legislator Michael Lobo confirmed that rescue operations continued throughout the night, with firefighters and police working tirelessly at the scene. In response to the catastrophe, officials have announced immediate fire safety audits at all similar entertainment venues across the region.

    This incident represents the latest in a series of deadly fires that have plagued India due to widespread non-compliance with safety regulations, inadequate building standards, and chronic overcrowding. The tragedy strikes particularly hard in Goa, a former Portuguese colony renowned for its vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, and relaxed coastal atmosphere that attracts millions of international visitors annually.

    The disaster echoes similar recent fire catastrophes across India, including a May blaze in Hyderabad that killed 17 people, a April hotel fire in Kolkata claiming 15 lives, and last year’s amusement park inferno in Gujarat that resulted in 24 fatalities—all incidents attributed to insufficient safety measures and regulatory failures.

  • Woman and child die in Offaly house fire

    Woman and child die in Offaly house fire

    A devastating residential fire in the Irish town of Edenderry has resulted in two fatalities and left one individual critically injured. The tragedy unfolded on Saturday evening at approximately 7:45 PM local time at a residence located in Castleview Park, County Offaly.

    According to official reports from An Garda Síochána (Ireland’s national police service), the victims include a young boy and a 60-year-old woman who both succumbed to injuries sustained in the blaze. A second woman, believed to be in her 50s, was transported to a medical facility where she remains in serious condition receiving treatment.

    The emergency response involved multiple fire service units and paramedics who worked to contain the fire and provide medical assistance. The scene has been preserved for technical examination as authorities work to determine the origin and cause of the fire.

    Gardaí have initiated a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and are actively seeking information from the public. Officials have requested that anyone who witnessed the event or has relevant information contact Tullamore Garda Station to assist with the ongoing inquiry.

    The local community has expressed profound shock at the tragedy, with neighbors describing the incident as heartbreaking. Support services have been made available to those affected by the devastating event as the investigation continues.

  • Nobel laureates arrive for a week of events and awards in Stockholm and Oslo

    Nobel laureates arrive for a week of events and awards in Stockholm and Oslo

    STOCKHOLM (AP) — Nobel Prize celebrations commenced across Scandinavian capitals this week, marking the prestigious annual tradition where laureates deliver lectures and participate in ceremonies before formally receiving their awards.

    Hungarian author László Krasznahorkai, this year’s literature laureate renowned for his surreal novels blending bleak worldviews with dark humor, prepared for a rare public appearance Sunday in Stockholm. The reclusive 71-year-old writer, described by Nobel judges as “a great epic writer” whose work embodies “absurdism and grotesque excess,” represents what the Nobel organization characterizes as a Central European tradition marked by “pessimism and apocalypse, but also humor and unpredictability.”

    In Oslo, Norwegian Nobel Institute director Kristian Harpviken confirmed Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado would personally collect her Peace Prize despite months in hiding. The 58-year-old laureate, honored for her democratic transition efforts in Venezuela, hasn’t been seen publicly since January. Harpviken told Norwegian broadcaster NRK: “I spoke with the Peace Prize winner last night, and she will come to Oslo” for Wednesday’s ceremony.

    The Nobel awards occur annually on December 10th, commemorating the death of inventor Alfred Nobel in 1896. While peace prizes are distributed in Oslo, all other categories are awarded in Stockholm. This year’s literature prize follows 2022 winner Han Kang of South Korea and 2023 laureate Jon Fosse, the Norwegian author famous for his seven-book single-sentence epic.