Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Obstacle race, emotional parents: Children of determination compete in UAE sport event

    Obstacle race, emotional parents: Children of determination compete in UAE sport event

    Dubai’s Al Nasr Club sports hall radiated with palpable emotion and triumph during the fifth annual People of Determination Fitness Championship. Over 100 students from various government centers and associations across the UAE participated in the inclusive sporting event, demonstrating exceptional physical prowess and unwavering determination.

    The championship featured a diverse array of athletic challenges including obstacle courses, jumping competitions, leg-strength exercises, and core workouts such as sit-ups and upper-body lifts. Weeks of dedicated preparation under the guidance of experienced coaches culminated in performances that surpassed all expectations.

    Ahmed Salah, one of the participating coaches, expressed profound admiration for the participants: ‘Their execution today was nothing short of remarkable. They remembered every instruction and demonstrated perfect balance and focus. Most importantly, their visible joy throughout the competition was truly inspiring.’

    The event created an atmosphere of mutual support where children of varying abilities cheered for one another while demonstrating their physical capabilities. Seven-year-old Fatima shared her excitement about the jumping challenges, stating, ‘When I run and jump, I feel very strong.’ Fourteen-year-old Rania emphasized the social aspect, noting, ‘I made new friends today. We all cheered for each other.’

    Hessa Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Development Sector at the Ministry of Family, highlighted the championship’s significance within the UAE’s broader inclusion framework. ‘This event reflects our nation’s clear vision of empowerment and social integration. Sports serve as a powerful vehicle for building confidence, physical health, and emotional wellbeing while helping participants discover their unique talents,’ she explained.

    The ministry’s approach to developing such programs incorporates continuous research, global best practices, and active collaboration with families and experts. Tahlak emphasized that family insights directly inform program design to ensure meaningful impact in participants’ lives.

    As the championship concluded, participants departed with medals symbolizing their achievements, while parents and coaches left with hearts full of pride, already anticipating next year’s gathering that continues to redefine possibilities for people of determination.

  • Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ shoot wraps up, actor shares celebratory video

    Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ shoot wraps up, actor shares celebratory video

    The highly anticipated third installment of the acclaimed Indian thriller franchise ‘Drishyam’ has officially completed principal photography. Production concluded on December 3rd, 2025, with lead actor Mohanlal and director Jeethu Joseph commemorating the milestone through a heartfelt social media announcement.

    The celebration was captured in an Instagram video shared by Mohanlal himself, showcasing authentic moments of camaraderie among the creative team. The footage reveals the precise instant when director Joseph confirmed approval of the final shot, triggering an emotional reaction from the veteran actor. The video further documents warm embraces between Mohanlal, producer Antony Perumbavoor, and Joseph, followed by a traditional cake-cutting ceremony with the entire cast and crew on set.

    Helmed by director Joseph, ‘Drishyam 3’ continues the narrative of Georgekutty, portrayed by Dadasaheb Phalke Award-winning actor Mohanlal. The original 2013 film established the franchise’s premise centered on Georgekutty’s family, who face intense scrutiny when the son of a high-ranking police official mysteriously disappears.

    The franchise’s remarkable cross-cultural appeal has spawned successful remakes in multiple Indian languages and Sinhala, including Kannada (‘Drishya’, 2014), Telugu (‘Drushyam’, 2014), Tamil (‘Papanasam’, 2015), Hindi (‘Drishyam’, 2015), and Sinhala (‘Dharmayuddhaya’, 2017). This pan-Indian success story underscores the universal resonance of the thriller’s core themes and narrative structure.

  • Lebanon and Israel to send civilian officials to truce talks

    Lebanon and Israel to send civilian officials to truce talks

    In a significant diplomatic development, Israel and Lebanon are preparing for their first official non-military engagement this Wednesday, marking a tentative step toward establishing economic relations between the historically adversarial nations.

    The Israeli Prime Minister’s office confirmed that Benjamin Netanyahu has authorized the acting director of the National Security Council to dispatch a representative to meet with Lebanese economic officials. This groundbreaking initiative aims to create foundational elements for future economic cooperation between the two countries, which technically remain in a state of conflict.

    Concurrently, Lebanon’s presidential office announced the appointment of Simon Karam, a prominent attorney and former ambassador to the United States, to lead a civilian delegation to the supervision committee overseeing implementation of the 2024 ceasefire agreement. This committee, which previously consisted exclusively of military representatives from Lebanon, the United States, France, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, will now include Lebanese civilian participation for the first time.

    The meeting in Naqoura, southern Lebanon, occurs against a complex backdrop of ongoing tensions. Despite the November 2024 ceasefire that ended over a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, violence has persisted with near-daily Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory. Israel maintains occupation of five strategic border areas, preventing thousands of displaced residents from returning to their destroyed villages due to continued military activity.

    The humanitarian toll has been substantial, with more than 300 fatalities—including over 100 civilians—resulting from Israeli strikes since the ceasefire signing. Recent escalations have raised concerns in Beirut about potential Israeli military expansion, particularly following accusations from Israeli leadership that Lebanon has delayed efforts to disarm Hezbollah.

    This diplomatic overture represents a delicate balancing act for both governments. Lebanon maintains its official non-recognition of Israel, previously insisting exclusively on military representation in ceasefire oversight. Lebanese military delegates have historically avoided direct contact with Israeli counterparts, making this economic dialogue particularly noteworthy despite the ongoing security challenges.

  • How pets are helping UAE residents manage grief, mental health challenges

    How pets are helping UAE residents manage grief, mental health challenges

    A growing therapeutic movement is transforming mental healthcare in the United Arab Emirates as residents discover the profound psychological benefits of animal companionship. Clinical experts and personal testimonies reveal how pets and structured animal therapy programs provide critical emotional support for those grappling with grief, anxiety, and neurodivergent challenges.

    Dubai resident Maya (identity protected) experienced this transformation firsthand following her father’s sudden passing in 2024. Plunged into severe depression with debilitating panic attacks and insomnia, Maya found unexpected salvation when temporarily caring for a friend’s dog. ‘The presence of another living being provided immediate relief,’ she recalled. ‘The animal demonstrated remarkable intuition during my distress episodes, offering quiet companionship that proved tremendously comforting.’

    Medical professionals confirm these observations with scientific backing. Dr. Walid Shaaban, CEO of Emirates Zoo Park and Resort, emphasizes that ‘animals provide consistent, non-judgmental presence that significantly reduces anxiety, emotional overload, and sensory dysregulation.’ This perspective is reinforced by Dr. Luisa Coelho, Clinical Director of The Cat Vet in Dubai, who notes clinical evidence demonstrates ‘pet interaction lowers cortisol levels, alleviates anxiety and depression symptoms, while boosting oxytocin and serotonin—hormones crucial for emotional regulation and bonding.’

    The therapeutic application has evolved into structured programs catering to diverse needs. EZPR’s specialized initiative matches neurodivergent individuals with animal ambassadors based on sensory profiles, therapeutic objectives, and comfort levels. ‘Animals eliminate social pressures through predictable, emotionally neutral interactions,’ explains Dr. Shaaban. ‘This proves particularly valuable for autistic individuals who struggle with complex social cues.’

    Carolyn Yaffe, Counsellor and Cognitive Therapist at Medcare Camali Clinic, highlights how animal-assisted therapy creates ‘safe spaces and structured routines that help autistic individuals feel secure. The companionship reduces anxiety while fostering calming atmospheres conducive to expression and sensory regulation.’

    Program implementation follows rigorous protocols considering animal temperament, environmental factors, and cultural considerations. Many participants benefit from observation-based sessions rather than direct contact, with all interactions supervised by handlers following strict welfare and safety standards.

    For Maya, the experience sparked lasting change. Now actively volunteering at animal shelters and fostering pets, she acknowledges: ‘That intervention saved me from profound mental anguish. Regular animal interaction has dramatically improved my psychological wellbeing while connecting me with a supportive community.’

  • Design Infinity marks UAE National Day with its 1,400-member team at the Glass, Metal & Signage Factory

    Design Infinity marks UAE National Day with its 1,400-member team at the Glass, Metal & Signage Factory

    DUBAI – Design Infinity, a prominent interior solutions provider, orchestrated a monumental celebration honoring the UAE’s 54th National Day by gathering its entire 1,400-strong workforce at its newly inaugurated Glass, Metal & Signage Factory in Dubai Investments Park 2. The event transcended conventional corporate gatherings, serving as a profound expression of gratitude to the nation that has been instrumental in the company’s trajectory of growth and achievement.

    The morning ceremony commenced at 8 AM with a meticulously coordinated patriotic program. The centerpiece was a massive human flag formation, with employees adorned in the UAE’s national colors of red, green, white, and black. The event agenda featured a solemn rendition of the UAE National Anthem, vibrant cultural performances by team members, and inspirational addresses from the company’s leadership, all culminating in a commemorative group photograph to immortalize the occasion.

    Senior executives used the platform to articulate the celebration’s deeper significance. Managing Partner Pratap Mendonca stated, ‘This gathering extends beyond tradition; it embodies our collective appreciation for a nation that provides unparalleled opportunity, stability, and vision. Witnessing our unified team under the raised UAE flag is a powerful testament to the shared pride we hold for our adopted home.’

    Echoing this sentiment, Managing Partner Geetha Nayak remarked, ‘Assembling at our new Glass & Metal Factory is doubly significant. We are not only celebrating the UAE’s remarkable journey but also acknowledging our own corporate evolution. The nation’s ambitious leadership continues to inspire us, and we reaffirm our commitment to reciprocate by contributing to its progress with dedication and excellence.’

    Monika Prasad, Marketing and Communications Manager, highlighted the cultural alignment, noting, ‘This event is a mirror of our corporate identity—united in diversity and deeply resonant with the UAE’s spirit. Converging our entire team at this new facility powerfully reinforces our core values of collaboration, commitment, and shared purpose.’

    The celebration also strategically showcased the company’s advanced Glass & Metal Facility. This state-of-the-art expansion is a critical component of Design Infinity’s long-term strategy to enhance its end-to-end in-house manufacturing capabilities, thereby elevating the quality and scope of its interior solutions offered across the region.

    The ceremony concluded on a note of collective reflection and pride, followed by team interactions that strengthened the organizational bonds of community and shared cultural belonging.

  • ‘My wife is inside’: How 71-year-old man’s photo became symbol for Hong Kong fire

    ‘My wife is inside’: How 71-year-old man’s photo became symbol for Hong Kong fire

    A single photograph has come to embody the profound human tragedy of Hong Kong’s most devastating fire in over seven decades. The image, captured by Reuters photographer Tyrone Siu, shows 71-year-old Wong standing helpless before the inferno that consumed his residential complex, crying out ‘My wife is inside.’

    One week after the catastrophic blaze at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in Tai Po district, Wong’s wife remains among the 30 individuals officially listed as missing. The fire, which rapidly engulfed seven high-rise towers housing approximately 4,000 residents, has claimed at least 156 lives, marking Hong Kong’s deadliest structural fire since 1948.

    The tragedy unfolded on what began as an ordinary Wednesday afternoon in autumn. Wong had departed his apartment to collect his granddaughter from school, leaving his wife behind. Returning to find flames erupting from the middle floors of his residential tower, Wong immediately recognized the grave danger his spouse faced.

    Authorities have identified substandard plastic mesh and flammable insulation foam used in ongoing renovation work as primary factors contributing to the fire’s rapid spread. Ironically, Wong, a retired building maintenance foreman with certifications in electrical and plumbing work, had previously expressed concerns about these exact safety hazards.

    His son, who asked to be identified as J Wong, revealed that his father had taken preventive measures, replacing styrofoam window coverings with fire-retardant plastic film and regularly moistening the external green mesh surrounding their apartment. ‘Despite knowing the risks, no matter what he did, he couldn’t change what happened,’ the son stated.

    In a heartbreaking final connection, Wong’s wife managed to place a brief telephone call to her husband as the fire intensified. Their conversation lasted approximately one minute before communication ceased permanently. ‘Soon after that chat, she disappeared,’ J Wong recounted.

    As recovery teams in protective hazmat suits continue their grim search through the charred remains, the Wong family represents just one of countless stories of loss emerging from the catastrophe. The photographic depiction of Wong’s anguish serves as a powerful symbol of both personal devastation and collective mourning for a city grappling with unprecedented tragedy.

  • India mandates SIM binding for WhatsApp, SnapChat to prevent ‘digital arrest’ frauds

    India mandates SIM binding for WhatsApp, SnapChat to prevent ‘digital arrest’ frauds

    In an unprecedented move to enhance cybersecurity, India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has implemented a groundbreaking regulation requiring popular messaging applications—including WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and SnapChat—to maintain continuous linkage with registered SIM cards. This mandate, described as a “first in the world regulatory measure,” aims to eliminate anonymous digital scams that have plagued Indian telecommunications networks.

    The new framework requires these platforms to ensure their services remain permanently tethered to the specific SIM card used during registration. Should the SIM card be removed, deactivated, or relocated internationally, the associated applications will immediately cease functioning. Additionally, web versions of these applications must automatically log users out every six hours, requiring re-authentication via QR code scanning.

    According to official statements, this measure directly addresses the growing phenomenon of ‘digital arrest’ frauds and government-impersonation schemes where criminals exploit the current system’s vulnerability. Presently, messaging applications only verify SIM cards during initial installation, allowing accounts to remain active even after SIM deactivation or removal—a loophole that has enabled widespread anonymous criminal activity.

    Industry stakeholders including the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) have endorsed the mandate, emphasizing its potential to establish complete accountability and traceability for all digital communications. Telecom operators have committed to facilitating seamless implementation within the stipulated 90-day compliance window, with full reporting required within 120 days.

    The COAI has further recommended collaboration with the Reserve Bank of India to reinforce financial transaction security, advocating that SMS OTP verification remain the primary authentication method due to its operator-verified security and guaranteed traceability features.

  • Over 6,600 criminal cases related to wild animals filed, around 10,000 suspects arrested

    Over 6,600 criminal cases related to wild animals filed, around 10,000 suspects arrested

    Chinese authorities have achieved significant breakthroughs in combating wildlife crime through a specialized nationwide operation launched in August 2025. The Ministry of Public Security reported that law enforcement agencies have initiated proceedings in more than 6,600 criminal cases involving endangered species protection violations, resulting in the apprehension of approximately 9,900 individuals suspected of wildlife trafficking and harm.

    The comprehensive campaign specifically targets the entire illegal wildlife trade network, addressing offenses ranging from illegal hunting and procurement to distribution and commercial utilization of protected animals, particularly bird species. Enforcement strategies have incorporated advanced data analytics to enhance operational precision, focusing on sophisticated criminal methodologies including modified hunting equipment, drone-assisted arrow systems, specialized nail guns, and concealed trapping devices.

    A notable case investigation in Dalian, Liaoning Province, demonstrated the operation’s effectiveness. Police dismantled a major trafficking ring specializing in precious and endangered wildlife, detaining 13 suspects and confiscating over 12,000 yellow-breasted buntings—a species classified under China’s highest protection level as national first-class protected wildlife. The estimated value of this single case exceeded 39 million yuan (approximately $5.52 million).

    Investigative findings revealed that primary suspect Zhang organized multiple hunting expeditions targeting nationally protected bird species while simultaneously purchasing illegally obtained specimens from other poachers for distribution through secondary markets, where birds were often fattened before resale.

    The ministry has strengthened inter-agency collaboration and public engagement mechanisms to enhance wildlife protection governance. A national reporting platform dedicated to environmental and food safety violations has been established to facilitate citizen participation in crime prevention efforts.

  • Celebrities including Benedict Cumberbatch and Annie Ernaux call for Marwan Barghouti release

    Celebrities including Benedict Cumberbatch and Annie Ernaux call for Marwan Barghouti release

    An international coalition of prominent cultural figures has launched a significant appeal for the immediate release of Marwan Barghouti, the incarcerated Palestinian political leader often compared to Nelson Mandela. The campaign, supported by Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux, actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Ian McKellen, and Brian Cox, chef Delia Smith, and musician Brian Eno, contends that Barghouti’s imprisonment represents a critical obstacle to peace in the region.

    Barghouti, captured by Israeli forces in 2002 and subsequently sentenced to five life terms, has emerged as the most popular political figure in Palestinian polling despite his decades-long incarceration. The signatories’ letter highlights alleged ‘violent mistreatment and denial of legal rights’ during his imprisonment, drawing parallels to the international campaign that ultimately secured Nelson Mandela’s freedom.

    The controversy surrounding Barghouti’s 2004 trial remains central to the appeal. Author and lawyer Selma Dabbagh characterized the judicial process as ‘a sham,’ noting that the Inter-Parliamentary Union had previously documented substantial flaws in the proceedings. Barghouti himself refused to mount a defense, rejecting Israel’s jurisdiction over West Bank Palestinians.

    Recent developments have intensified concerns regarding Barghouti’s treatment. Reports indicate severe restrictions on family and legal visits, with Palestinian officials alleging systematic ‘isolation, torture and attempts to coerce, humiliate and beat him.’ A disturbing 13-second video from August 2025 showed Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir threatening Barghouti in his cell—the first public footage of the leader in nearly ten years.

    The campaign emerges amid revelations that Barghouti’s name was reportedly removed from prisoner exchange lists during recent Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Notably, some Israeli security figures, including former Shin Bet leaders, have joined calls for his release, suggesting his freedom could potentially alter the political landscape.

    Brian Eno framed the cultural campaign as analogous to anti-apartheid efforts, stating: ‘Just as global solidarity helped free Nelson Mandela, we all have the power to accelerate the day that Marwan Barghouti walks free. His release would mark a turning point in this long struggle.’

  • Mainland expands cases Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan lawyers can handle

    Mainland expands cases Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan lawyers can handle

    In a significant move to deepen legal integration, China’s Ministry of Justice announced on December 3, 2025, the substantial expansion of practice rights for qualified lawyers from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan operating on the mainland. The new policy authorizes these legal professionals to represent clients in 299 categories of civil cases, marking a substantial broadening of their jurisdictional scope.

    The enhanced practice rights now encompass specialized legal domains including maritime and admiralty disputes, personality right conflicts, real property matters, alongside intellectual property and competition litigation. This expansion represents a strategic effort to leverage the unique expertise of legal practitioners from these regions within mainland China’s judicial system.

    Concurrently, the ministry has aligned practice regulations within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), creating consistent representation standards for Hong Kong and Macao lawyers appearing in mainland courts. The nine mainland cities within the GBA economic zone have simultaneously received expanded authorization for legal services provided by qualified GBA practitioners.

    Official statements emphasize that this policy evolution responds directly to expressed demands from legal professionals seeking broader operational parameters. The initiative aims to facilitate deeper integration of these lawyers into China’s comprehensive legal development framework while maximizing their specialized professional capabilities.

    Current statistics reveal that over 760 legal professionals from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan have received mainland practice approval, with more than 630 Hong Kong and Macao lawyers specifically obtaining the GBA practice certification. This development continues China’s progressive opening of legal services to these jurisdictions, strengthening cross-regional rule of law cooperation and exchange.

    Zhang Han, spokeswoman for the Taiwan Affairs Office, characterized the measure as creating substantial opportunities for Taiwanese legal professionals within mainland China’s expanding legal market. The policy aligns with broader efforts to enhance cross-strait economic and cultural collaboration while encouraging Taiwanese participation in mainland socioeconomic development initiatives.