In the tropical province of Hainan, military doctor Li Huiling has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to tropical medicine and her unwavering dedication to the health of both soldiers and civilians. In July, Li was awarded the title of ‘Most Admirable Revolutionary of the New Era,’ a testament to her remarkable career in one of China’s most challenging environments.
分类： society
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Hengshan Mountain in Hunan shimmers with first rime of winter
Hengshan Mountain in Hunan Province has been transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland with the arrival of its first rime of the season. The phenomenon occurred as a powerful cold front swept through Hengyang, bringing with it a dramatic drop in temperatures. The frosty spectacle began to take shape on Monday afternoon, and by Tuesday morning, the mountain was cloaked in a thick, silvery-white layer of rime. The temperature plummeted to minus 1 degree Celsius overnight, creating ideal conditions for the rapid formation of ice crystals on trees and branches. The humid air further enhanced the accumulation of frost, resulting in a stunning natural display that has captivated locals and visitors alike. The rime-covered landscape offers a serene and picturesque view, marking the official onset of winter in the region. This annual event not only highlights the beauty of nature but also serves as a reminder of the changing seasons and the unique climatic conditions that shape the environment.
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Nuts and beer: Booze-free bar offers Saudis a pub vibe
In the heart of Riyadh, a unique social experiment is unfolding at the A12 cafe, where Saudis in traditional attire gather to enjoy the ambiance of a pub without the alcohol. The establishment, which opened in April 2025, serves German Warsteiner beer with 0.0% alcohol content, poured into large mugs and accompanied by peanuts, mimicking the classic pub experience. The cafe has become a hotspot for young Saudis eager to explore new social spaces while adhering to the kingdom’s strict alcohol ban. Manager Abdallah Islam emphasizes that the goal is to provide an original experience that aligns with local values, allowing customers to share their moments on social media. The scene at A12 is a microcosm of the broader societal changes in Saudi Arabia, where cinemas have reopened, women are driving, and foreign tourists are welcomed. However, alcohol remains a red line, with the country maintaining its ban since 1952. The cafe’s success reflects a delicate balance in a youthful nation where curiosity and experimentation are tempered by cultural and religious boundaries. As one young customer, Sheikha, noted, ‘The word ‘beer’ alone is scary, but I got over my fear, and honestly, it’s refreshing.’ The A12 cafe symbolizes a cautious yet progressive step in Saudi society, offering a space for social interaction without crossing traditional lines.
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English youngsters turn to AI for advice, reveals survey
A recent survey has revealed that nearly 40% of young people in England are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for advice, support, or companionship, despite a widespread desire for more real-life connections. The YouGov poll, conducted as part of an annual report commissioned by youth charity OnSide, highlights the growing reliance on AI among the younger generation. According to the findings, 20% of respondents prefer AI interactions because they find it easier than talking to humans, while 10% admit they have no one else to confide in. The study, which surveyed approximately 5,000 individuals aged 11-18, marks the first time AI-related questions were included, reflecting the technology’s increasing influence. The report also underscores broader trends, such as 76% of young people spending most of their free time on screens, a figure that has remained consistent since 2023. Additionally, 48% spend their leisure time in their bedrooms, and 18% often spend it alone. Jamie Masraff, CEO of OnSide, noted that issues like loneliness, digital dependence, and isolation have become deeply ingrained in young people’s lives. Despite 49% of respondents stating that in-person interactions with friends make them feel most connected, only 14% actually spend their free time with friends in real life. Masraff emphasized the lack of physical spaces for young people to socialize, attributing their reliance on technology to this void.
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Scot dies after surfing accident in Australia
The Aberdeen community is preparing to bid farewell to Calum McCombie, a 36-year-old local who tragically lost his life in a surfing accident off the coast of Frankston, Victoria, Australia. The incident occurred on October 22 during severe weather conditions, when McCombie’s surfboard snapped approximately 33 miles (54km) from Melbourne. Despite the swift response of rescue teams, who managed to retrieve both McCombie and his 43-year-old friend from the water, their lives could not be saved. McCombie’s funeral is set to take place on November 24, as announced by his family in a heartfelt social media tribute. ‘Calum will be sorely missed and be forever in our hearts,’ the statement read, reflecting the profound loss felt by those who knew him. The tragedy has left the Aberdeen community in mourning, as they remember a life cut short far from home.
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UK: Six Palestine Action activists stand trial over Elbit Systems attack
Six members of the activist group Palestine Action appeared in London’s Woolwich Crown Court on Tuesday, facing charges related to a protest at a factory operated by Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems in August 2024. The defendants—Charlotte Head, 29, Samuel Corner, 23, Leona Kamio, 30, Fatema Rajwani, 21, Zoe Rogers, 22, and Jordan Devlin, 31—are accused of aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and violent disorder. Corner faces an additional charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The court heard that the group, dressed in red jumpsuits and armed with sledgehammers, allegedly broke into the Filton-based facility near Bristol in the early hours of August 6. Prosecutors claimed they used a prison van to crash through the site’s fencing and caused significant damage to machinery inside the factory, including spraying red paint and smashing equipment. The activists were arrested on-site and have been held in custody beyond the UK’s standard pre-trial limit of 182 days. Justice Johnson emphasized to jurors that their personal views on Israel’s actions in Gaza should not influence the case, and the trial is expected to last 10 weeks.
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Sharjah Police seize 73 vehicles, 25 bikes for causing noise, reckless driving
In a decisive move to enhance road safety and curb noise pollution, Sharjah Police have confiscated 73 vehicles and 25 motorcycles following a series of traffic violations. The crackdown, announced on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, targeted offenses such as excessive noise, reckless driving, and operating vehicles without valid licenses. Authorities emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic regulations to ensure public safety and avoid severe penalties. Under Article 20 of the Federal Traffic Law, vehicles exceeding the 95-decibel noise limit face a Dh2,000 fine, 12 black points, and confiscation for up to six months. This initiative follows a surge in complaints from residents about disruptive driving behaviors and modified vehicles. Major-General Saif Al Zeri Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, highlighted the growing concerns over road stunts, noise, and pollution in residential areas. Meanwhile, Dubai Police are also intensifying efforts to combat vehicle noise through advanced noise-detection radars, part of their smart traffic technology platform. These measures aim to identify and penalize violations such as loud engines, modified exhausts, and excessive honking. The coordinated efforts across the UAE underscore a commitment to creating safer and quieter urban environments.
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‘I won’t be silenced’ says French anti-drugs activist after murders of two brothers
Amine Kessaci, a prominent French anti-drugs campaigner, has vowed to continue his fight against drug-related violence after the tragic murder of his younger brother, Mehdi Kessaci, last week. This marks the second time Amine has lost a sibling to drug criminals, following the death of his elder brother, Brahim, in 2020. Mehdi, 20, was shot dead in central Marseille in what authorities believe was a targeted attack aimed at intimidating Amine, who has been a vocal critic of the city’s drug gangs. In an emotional op-ed published in *Le Monde*, Amine declared, ‘Yesterday I lost my brother. Today I speak out,’ emphasizing his refusal to be silenced by fear. The French government has described Mehdi’s murder as a turning point in the nation’s escalating drug wars. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez labeled the killing as a ‘crime of intimidation,’ signaling a new level of violence in the ongoing conflict. Amine, who founded the association Conscience to expose the impact of drug gangs on working-class communities, has faced direct threats to his life, prompting police to advise him to leave Marseille. Despite the dangers, he attended Mehdi’s funeral wearing a bulletproof vest and under heavy police protection. The murder has reignited national debate on France’s drug crisis, with experts warning that the problem is reaching unmanageable proportions. According to a recent study, the drug trade in France generates €7 billion annually, surpassing 70% of the justice ministry’s budget. President Emmanuel Macron has called for a crackdown on drug consumers, accusing the ‘city-centre bourgeoisie’ of funding traffickers. In response to the crisis, France has implemented new anti-drug laws, including the establishment of a specialized prosecutor’s office for organized crime. While progress has been made, with homicides in Marseille dropping from 49 in 2023 to 24 in 2024, officials acknowledge that the war against drugs is far from over.
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Some UAE schools withholding results from parents over unsigned agreement
Government schools in the UAE have implemented a new policy requiring parents to sign the Parent-School Partnership Charter before releasing term exam results. This mandatory agreement, applicable to both citizens and residents, aims to foster collaboration between schools and families in addressing academic and behavioral matters. School administrations have confirmed that exam grades will not be accessible on online platforms until the charter is signed and approved through the designated system. The Ministry of Education, which issues and updates the charter annually, emphasizes its role in defining responsibilities that support student well-being and create a positive learning environment. Key provisions of the charter include ensuring a safe and inclusive school atmosphere, maintaining regular communication with parents, enforcing attendance policies, and promoting positive citizenship. Additionally, it outlines parental responsibilities such as supporting academic progress, monitoring health and behavior, and encouraging participation in extracurricular activities. Parents can sign the charter using their digital ID, review the terms, and receive an official copy via email. Schools have reiterated that results will remain withheld until the process is completed, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the partnership between schools and families for the benefit of students.
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China’s premier ice-and-snow destinations poised for winter tourism frenzy
China’s premier ice-and-snow destinations are preparing for a surge in winter tourism, with Harbin leading the charge. The Harbin Ice-Snow World, the largest ice-and-snow theme park globally, is expanding its offerings for the upcoming season. Spanning 1.2 million square meters, the park will feature new attractions such as hot spring camps, cross-country skiing tracks, and themed parades. Enhanced smart tourism services and accessibility facilities aim to attract global visitors. Last season, the park welcomed over 3.56 million visitors, contributing significantly to the local economy. The city of Harbin, known as China’s ‘ice city,’ recorded 90.35 million visitors last winter, generating 137.22 billion yuan in tourist spending. Beyond Harbin, other regions like Mudanjiang, Jilin, and Altay are also capitalizing on their unique ice-and-snow resources. Mudanjiang’s China Snow Town opened with over 30 cultural and tourism activities, while Jilin plans to issue 100 million yuan in vouchers to boost winter tourism. Altay, leveraging its rich skiing heritage, will offer a nine-day ‘snow break’ for students, promoting nature connection and cultural inheritance. These initiatives align with China’s broader strategy to develop the ice-and-snow economy, targeting a 1.2 trillion yuan economic scale by 2027.