The 16th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship kicked off in spectacular fashion at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, with UAE golfers Sam Mullane and Ahmad Skaik making a strong impression in the opening round. Mullane, making his debut, carded an impressive 67, tying for fourth place with six birdies and one bogey. Skaik, a seasoned participant in his seventh championship appearance, finished just one stroke behind with a 68, highlighted by a remarkable streak of four consecutive birdies. However, a double bogey on his final hole slightly marred his otherwise stellar performance. The UAE duo’s familiarity with the course, having practiced up to three times a week leading up to the event, played a crucial role in their success. Mullane expressed confidence in their ability to compete, stating, ‘There’s no reason why one of us can’t win it.’ The championship, featuring 120 players from 41 countries, saw Thailand’s Fifa Laopakdee, Australia’s Billy Dowling, and Vietnam’s Khanh Hung Le sharing the lead with six-under 66s. The event, held on the Majlis Course, will continue with the second round on Friday, narrowing the field to the top 60 players for the weekend’s final rounds. Additionally, it was announced that the 17th edition of the championship will take place in New Zealand in 2026, with officials praising the venue as a ‘fantastic test of golf in a spectacular location.’
作者： admin
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How to stop letting fear control your financial decisions
Sally Maddison, a 44-year-old British expatriate and founder of MINT Market in the UAE, has transformed her tumultuous relationship with money into a story of empowerment and growth. Having moved to Dubai in 2008 to be with her now-husband, Maddison’s financial journey has been shaped by both personal and professional experiences. Her childhood, marked by the volatility of her entrepreneur father’s ventures, instilled in her a mix of resilience and anxiety around money. Her mother’s free-spirited approach to life taught her to pursue passion over profit, but Maddison has since learned to balance this idealism with practical financial management.
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Montenegro: Europe’s new luxury hotspot for spectacular views and culture
Montenegro, often referred to as the ‘little-known Monte Carlo of the Adriatic,’ has swiftly risen to prominence as a luxurious retreat for the global elite. This hidden gem, once a well-kept secret among the rich and famous, is now gaining widespread recognition for its breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and exclusive amenities. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, recently showcased the country’s allure with an Instagram post from the Bay of Kotor, where he stayed at the ultra-luxurious One & Only Portonovi resort. This sprawling 60-acre waterfront property features private beaches and a marina, epitomizing the opulence that Montenegro offers. The coastal town of Budva, with its historic charm and natural beauty, has long attracted celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, and Madonna, who even owns a home there. Flydubai has capitalized on Montenegro’s growing appeal, reporting a 10% annual increase in passenger numbers since launching direct flights to Tivat in 2017. Luxury brands are also flocking to the region, with SIRO Boka Place making waves as a premier wellness resort. The Kerzner Group, behind the One&Only brand, has further cemented Montenegro’s status as a luxury hotspot. Sunset Hospitality Group has also entered the market, opening the Aura Beach Club in Porto Montenegro and planning additional venues. Montenegro’s unique blend of pristine coastline, historic towns, and outdoor adventures, coupled with improved connectivity and government support for premium tourism, has positioned it as a top destination for sophisticated travelers seeking exclusivity and cultural depth.
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Lessons in love: When solitude is no longer a choice
In a deeply reflective narrative, Suresh Pattali explores the intricate relationship between solitude, love, and the passage of time. The story begins with a poignant scene of his partner, Amma, sleeping peacefully, a moment that evokes both tranquility and unease. Amma, though not his biological mother, has been his life partner for 43 years, a bond that has shaped his understanding of companionship and isolation.
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Trump’s pick for US ambassador to Kuwait grilled by lawmakers on Israel
Amer Ghalib, the mayor of Hamtramck, Michigan, and a former Democrat turned Donald Trump supporter, faced intense questioning during his Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on Thursday. Nominated in March 2024 to become the U.S. ambassador to Kuwait, Ghalib’s confirmation has been delayed due to his controversial social media posts and outspoken criticism of Israel, which have drawn criticism from pro-Israel groups and right-wing media outlets. Ghalib, the first Muslim mayor to endorse Trump, defended his past remarks, including his dismissal of reports of Hamas’ sexual violence during the October 7 attacks, which he later attributed to a lack of awareness of the evidence. Senator Jeanne Shaheen challenged Ghalib on his comments, citing well-documented evidence of Hamas’ atrocities. Ghalib condemned all forms of abuse and expressed regret for his past social media activity, which he described as a “bad habit” of engaging with inflammatory posts. He also addressed his previous opposition to the Abraham Accords, stating that he now supports normalization with Israel. Ghalib emphasized his commitment to combating antisemitism, citing a resolution passed under his leadership in Hamtramck. Despite the controversy, Ghalib retains Trump’s support, as evidenced by a recent phone call from the former president. Ghalib’s nomination has sparked debate within both political parties, with some viewing it as a test of the Republican Party’s relationship with the Arab American community. His hearing highlighted the challenges of reconciling personal beliefs with public office, as well as the broader political implications of his appointment.
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ICC judges reject jurisdiction challenge by Philippine ex-president Duterte
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has dismissed a jurisdictional challenge filed by former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, allowing his case to proceed. Duterte, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, was arrested in March and transferred to The Hague following an arrest warrant connecting him to alleged murders during his controversial war on drugs. This campaign, which targeted suspected drug dealers and users, resulted in thousands of deaths. Duterte and his legal team argued that his arrest was unlawful, claiming the ICC lacked jurisdiction because the Philippines withdrew from the court in 2019, before a full investigation was launched. However, ICC judges ruled that the preliminary examination initiated by prosecutors prior to the withdrawal was sufficient to establish jurisdiction under the court’s rules. The ruling did not address a separate defense motion questioning Duterte’s fitness to stand trial due to alleged cognitive decline. A panel of medical experts is expected to submit a report on his health by the end of October, with a decision on its impact on the trial anticipated in mid-November.
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Indian doctors in US worry higher H-1B fee may destroy rural healthcare
In the heart of rural America, immigrant doctors like Dr. Mahesh Anantha are indispensable to communities that would otherwise struggle to access critical healthcare services. Based in Batesville, Arkansas, a town of 11,000 surrounded by farmland and small industries, Dr. Anantha is one of the few interventional cardiologists in the region. His practice serves as a lifeline for nearby villages and cities, with no other medical facilities within an hour or two’s drive. A gold medallist from Madras Medical College in India, Dr. Anantha is among the thousands of foreign-trained doctors who fill crucial gaps in the U.S. healthcare system, particularly in underserved rural areas. Recent data reveals that 25% of U.S. doctors are foreign-trained, with 64% working in rural regions where American graduates are reluctant to practice. Many of these doctors, including Dr. Anantha, are on H-1B visas, which allow them to work in the U.S. but leave them vulnerable to job instability and long waits for green cards. Last month, the Trump administration’s announcement of a $100,000 fee hike for new H-1B visa applicants sparked widespread fear among the roughly 50,000 India-trained doctors in the U.S. While the White House later clarified that the fee would not apply to existing H-1B visa holders, concerns remain about the future supply of foreign medical professionals. Experts warn that the fee hike could deter hospitals from hiring H-1B doctors, exacerbating the already critical shortage of physicians in rural areas. The American Medical Association (AMA) and other groups have emphasized that immigrant doctors are not taking jobs from U.S. graduates but are instead filling essential roles in communities that need them most. Dr. Rakesh Kanipakam, a nephrologist from Andhra Pradesh, India, exemplifies this contribution, traveling hundreds of miles weekly to treat patients with kidney failure in rural Alabama. The Conrad waiver, which allows foreign doctors to work in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), has been instrumental in addressing acute doctor shortages. However, the proposed visa fee hike threatens to disrupt this vital pipeline. Dr. Anantha’s hospital credits him with transforming their facility into a center of excellence, generating over $40 million annually and earning numerous healthcare awards. While the AMA remains cautiously optimistic about potential exemptions for medical professionals, the urgency for action is clear. As Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, the first Indian-origin president of the AMA, warns, ‘International medical graduates are determining their next steps now, and the possibility of this fee hike could deter highly qualified physicians from working in the U.S.’
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UAE strongly condemns Israeli Knesset’s approval of draft laws annexing West Bank
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has issued a strong condemnation of the Israeli Knesset’s preliminary approval of two draft laws aimed at annexing the occupied West Bank and legitimizing control over a settlement in the region. In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE described the move as a severe escalation, a blatant violation of international resolutions, and a direct threat to the prospects of achieving a just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East. The Ministry reiterated the UAE’s firm rejection of all unilateral actions that seek to alter the legal and historical status of the Palestinian territories, emphasizing that such measures undermine the foundation of the two-state solution. The UAE called on the international community to fulfill its legal and political responsibilities by taking decisive steps to ensure security and stability for all peoples in the region. Additionally, the Ministry underscored the importance of supporting regional and international efforts to revive the peace process and halt illegal practices, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to promoting peace, justice, and the rights of the Palestinian people.
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17 countries, organisations, including Saudi Arabia, condemn Israeli laws on sovereignty over West Bank
A coalition of 17 countries and international organizations, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, has issued a strong condemnation of two Israeli laws asserting sovereignty over the occupied West Bank. The joint statement, released through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), denounces the laws as a blatant violation of international law and United Nations Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 2334. This resolution explicitly condemns any actions by Israel that alter the demographic or legal status of Palestinian territories occupied since 1967.
The statement also references the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has repeatedly declared Israel’s occupation of Palestinian land illegal. The ICJ has emphasized Israel’s obligation to ensure access to essential resources for Palestinians and to facilitate humanitarian aid through UN channels. Furthermore, the court has reaffirmed the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and independent statehood.
The coalition warns against Israel’s continued illegal activities in the West Bank and calls on the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions. They urge global leaders to ensure that Israel respects the rights of the Palestinian people and adheres to international legal standards. This unified stance highlights growing international concern over Israel’s policies in the region and underscores the urgency of addressing the ongoing conflict.
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Pakistan bans radical party after deadly protest under anti-terrorism laws
Pakistan has once again banned the far-right Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) under anti-terrorism laws, following violent clashes during anti-Israel protests near Lahore that resulted in at least five fatalities. The decision, made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marks the second time the group has been outlawed. TLP has been at the forefront of some of Pakistan’s most violent protests in recent years. The prime minister’s office stated that the Federal Cabinet unanimously concluded TLP is involved in terrorism and violent activities, citing its violent protests, rallies, and demonstrations that have led to the deaths of security personnel and innocent bystanders. The latest unrest began on October 9, when TLP supporters, led by party chief Saad Rizvi, marched from Lahore towards Islamabad to protest a US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Clashes erupted in Muridke, resulting in at least five deaths, including a police officer. Authorities have since launched a sweeping crackdown, sealing 95 bank accounts and several properties allegedly linked to the group. Rizvi has gone underground to avoid arrest. TLP was previously banned in April 2021 after violent anti-France protests but was unbanned seven months later. The group, which contested the 2018 and 2024 general elections, has mobilized thousands of supporters to paralyze cities, demand the expulsion of Western ambassadors, target religious minorities, and incite riots. The party, also known as the Movement at the Service of the Prophet, rose to prominence in 2016 protesting the execution of Mumtaz Qadri, who assassinated Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011 over his calls to reform Pakistan’s blasphemy laws.