分类： society

Bali authorities have halted the construction of a 182-meter cliffside glass elevator on Kelingking Beach, one of the Indonesian province’s most iconic locations, following widespread criticism over environmental concerns and the destruction of natural beauty. The project, initiated by Chinese developer China Kaishi Group, aimed to provide easier access to the beach for tourists. However, images of the initial construction cutting through the famous ‘T-Rex cliff’ sparked outrage on social media, with locals and visitors alike condemning the project for accelerating erosion and marring the area’s pristine landscape. Authorities also revealed that the project lacked the necessary permits. Local resident Made Sediana expressed disappointment, stating that tourists visit Nusa Penida for its natural beauty, not man-made structures. Critics, including Bali senator Niluh Djelantik, emphasized the environmental risks and urged preserving Bali’s natural charm. The suspension’s duration remains uncertain. Meanwhile, some have suggested improving existing stairways instead of pursuing costly ‘vanity projects.’ The $12 million lift project has also raised concerns about increased swimming accidents, as Kelingking Beach, despite its breathtaking views, is notorious for dangerous waves and a narrow coastline. This incident highlights the growing tension between development and environmental preservation in Bali, where Chinese investments, such as a $3 billion airport project, are on the rise.

A tragic road accident in southern India has left at least 20 people dead and around two dozen injured. The incident occurred early Monday when a truck loaded with concrete stone chips collided head-on with a state-run passenger bus near Chevella, a town in Telangana state. The bus, carrying approximately 70 passengers, was en route to Hyderabad when the collision took place. The impact severely mangled the front of the bus, trapping several passengers inside. Heaps of stone chips from the truck were scattered inside the bus, burying at least one passenger alive. Rescue teams faced significant challenges in cutting through the wreckage to retrieve the bodies. Among the deceased were the drivers of both vehicles and three college-going siblings from Tandur town. The grieving father of the siblings, Yellaiah Goud, expressed his anguish, saying, ‘What will I do without my daughters?’ The bus conductor, Radha, who sustained head injuries, described the collision as producing an ‘ear-shattering noise.’ Meanwhile, in a separate incident in Rajasthan, a drunk driver lost control of his speeding truck, hitting multiple vehicles in Jaipur and killing at least 13 people. This accident followed another deadly crash in Rajasthan just a day earlier, where a minibus collided with a parked truck, killing 15 people. These incidents highlight the ongoing road safety challenges in India, where haphazardly parked vehicles and poor highway conditions often lead to fatal accidents.

Dubai resident Osman Akbar has turned heads with his unique cycling prowess, mastering the art of riding on a single wheel. The British national, who recently showcased his skills during the Dubai Ride event, cycles over 70 kilometers weekly, performing wheelies with precision and flair. For Osman, this skill is more than just a hobby—it’s a nostalgic journey back to his childhood. ‘I used to do wheelies as a kid, but I forgot how over time. In January 2024, I decided to relearn it,’ he shared with Khaleej Times. Months of practice in his Arabian Ranches community earned him the nickname ‘the wheelie guy,’ as he honed his technique in preparation for the Dubai Ride. The event, which attracted over 40,000 participants, offered cyclists the chance to ride past Dubai’s iconic landmarks, including the Museum of the Future, where Osman fulfilled a dream by performing a wheelie. The festivities also included bike customization stations and live DJ performances, making it a memorable experience for all. Osman, who only discovered the event in 2024, marked his calendar for 2025 and seized the opportunity to showcase his passion. ‘It felt amazing to wheelie in front of such an iconic location,’ he said, reflecting on his achievement.

In a remarkable display of community spirit, over 300 volunteers, including individuals of determination, came together to renovate Al Khairiya Charity School in Samnan, Sharjah. The initiative, titled ‘Community-Inspired Schools,’ was launched by the Ministry of Community Empowerment in collaboration with the Emirates Foundation and local partners. This event marked the Sharjah edition of the ‘7 Over 7’ initiative, part of the UAE’s broader Volunteering and Community Engagement Framework. Volunteers of all ages participated in activities ranging from cleaning classrooms and painting murals to planting seedlings and implementing sustainable agriculture projects. The event not only revitalized the school’s infrastructure but also fostered a sense of unity and purpose among participants. Among the volunteers was Noureddine Amasha, a 16-year-old with determination, who shared his enthusiasm for contributing despite personal challenges. The initiative also included a homemade organic composting project, which had previously won global recognition at the COP28 ‘Preserving Grace’ conference. Teachers Halima Al Dhanhani and Huda Al Zahouri led efforts to educate volunteers on sustainable practices. The event concluded with a transformed school environment, ready to inspire and support its students. Mohammed Abdulhamid AlHosani, Director of Leadership and Empowerment at the Emirates Foundation, emphasized the UAE’s unique culture of volunteerism, where citizens and residents alike are eager to give back. The ‘Seven Opportunities in Seven Emirates’ program aims to expand volunteer opportunities across various fields, ensuring each emirate benefits from tailored initiatives.

In a significant crackdown on wildlife crime, Sharjah Police have apprehended an Arab man for the illegal trafficking and trade of protected animals, including endangered storks and foxes. The arrest, announced on November 2, 2025, was the result of a coordinated effort involving multiple authorities. Following the arrest, the confiscated animals were safely relocated to a nature reserve under the supervision of the Sharjah Environment and Nature Reserves Authority and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. The accused has been handed over to the public prosecutor to face legal proceedings. Sharjah Police have called on residents to report any suspicious activities related to the illegal acquisition or trade of protected species. This operation was conducted by the Directorate of Investigations and Criminal Investigations in collaboration with the Federal Criminal Police and the Environment and Nature Reserves Authority. The UAE has a history of stringent actions against wildlife crimes. In October 2024, five individuals were arrested in Abu Dhabi for illegal falcon hunting, while in May 2025, a wild cat was captured in Fujairah, resulting in a hefty fine for its owner. Additionally, in 2021, Dubai Police thwarted an attempt to illegally sell a wolf. UAE law imposes severe penalties for such offenses, with fines ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh500,000 for owning dangerous animals without registration. Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 and Law No. 22 of 2005 strictly prohibit the hunting, killing, or capturing of protected species without proper authorization.

The United Arab Emirates was awash with national pride as citizens and residents celebrated Flag Day on November 3, 2025. At precisely 11 a.m., government and private institutions, schools, and homes across the country raised the UAE flag in unison, accompanied by the stirring notes of the national anthem. This annual tradition, deeply rooted in the nation’s collective memory, sees the country adorned in its iconic colours of red, green, white, and black, symbolizing unity, loyalty, and gratitude. The event marks the accession of the UAE’s second president, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in 2004 and was officially established in 2013 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. For many Emiratis, Flag Day is a cherished family ritual. Maitha Al Amari, a resident of Al Ain, shared how her family gathers annually to replace the old flag with a new one, instilling values of respect and pride in the younger generation. In Dubai, the Ferjan Dubai initiative distributed new flags across neighbourhoods, encouraging residents to participate in this nationwide movement of patriotism. Sara M, an Emirati teacher, described the day as a celebration of both national identity and personal memories, highlighting the sense of warmth and connection it brings. Flag Day not only honours the UAE’s achievements but also serves as a reminder of the nation’s enduring unity and shared commitment to its future.