SYDNEY, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Victoria has rolled out significant new rules designed to keep the energy grid stable as solar adoption continues to rise. Having taken effect on 1st October, 2024, the state’s Emergency Backstop Mechanism mandates all new and upgraded solar installations be network connected and communicate with a designated server, enabling grid operators to limit or temporarily halt solar energy exports when there is overproduction.
While these requirements bring complexity to homeowners and installers, FranklinWH energy management and storage system stands apart, simplifying retrofit installations under these rules.
The Exceptionally Easy Solution for the Emergency Backstop Mechanism
The new regulations require solar systems to have continuous network connectivity and pass rigorous Common Smart Inverter Profile (CSIP-Aus) certification tests, ensuring compatibility with remote grid management commands. Systems failing these tests risk costly delays or even disqualification from grid connection.
The FranklinWH System is a unique AC-coupled energy management system agnostic to and independent of all solar inverter models. With a configuration separate from the preexisting PV inverter, the FranklinWH System avoids the need for any modifications of original setups and the need for any emergency backstop mechanism.
Efficient Installation in Minutes
FranklinWH prioritizes ease of use and rapid deployment, drastically reducing installation and commissioning times. It features plug-and-play simplicity and avoids the need for connectivity request to the new mechanism. Commissioning the system typically takes installers around 15 minutes, eliminating lengthy delays. By contrast, traditional solar + battery systems under the new regulation may be subject to lengthy registration and compliance testing processes, sometimes taking several days or even a week to finalize.
Challenges of DC-Coupled Systems under New Rules
DC-coupled battery systems paired with hybrid inverters face substantial new hurdles in retrofitting scenarios. The regulations impose rigorous certification requirements, increasing complexity and potentially lengthening installation timelines significantly.
Additionally, during mandated curtailments or emergency shutdowns, when the grid operators remotely instruct built-in hybrid inverters to limit solar power feeding, the DC-coupled systems risk losing sufficient solar generation capacity, leaving batteries partially charged and homeowners more dependent on expensive grid power.
The FranklinWH System effectively avoids these pitfalls, ensuring homeowners maintain uninterrupted energy storage and utilization. It offers unparalleled reliability and operational simplicity as it does not require any on site emergency backstop testing. To learn more about FranklinWH’s innovative home energy management solutions, visit www.franklinwh.com/au/
MALÉ, Maldives, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Maldives Government and MBS Global Investments are to create an US$8.8bn Maldives International Financial Centre (MIFC) – a wholly sustainable, Financial Freezone in Malé, Maldives, designed for and created to attract global financial institutions, fintech pioneers, and global digital Nomads.
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE MALDIVES AND MBS GLOBAL INVESTMENTS PLEDGE $8.8 BILLION TO CREATE THE MALDIVES INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE
Allowing the Maldives to diversify beyond tourism, it will attract the future of finance and position Malé as the premier global business and financial hub in the Indian Ocean through an integrated, mixed-use urban district.
MIFC will offer no corporate tax, tax-free inheritance, ownership as per the constitution of the Maldives, and privacy. Combined with no residency requirements, it’s set to attract digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and wealth creators seeking freedom without borders.
Residents will benefit from multi-currency banking and access to offshore private banking. Future-ready regulations will support digital assets, and green finance – making MIFC not just a financial hub, but a destination for those investing in the legacy of future generations.
Due to be completed by 2030, it will be easily accessible from any part of the world and the aim is to notably increase the country’s GDP within four years with projected revenue to be well over US $1bn by the fifth year.
The centrepiece of MIFC is a state-of-the-art conference centre with capacity for 3,500 people. The multi-purpose convention venue will host leading global conferences, cultural events and innovation-driven hackathons establishing Male as leading assembly hub, driving all year round engagement in the Maldives and further supporting the wider, already established hospitality industry
The plan includes three iconic residential and office towers designed for international HQs and regional offices, high-end, sea front branded residences, world-renowned hotel brands, vibrant and one-of-a-kind retail experience, Oceanographic Museum, Mosque, and leading education facilities including an International School.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said, “With the MIFC, we are shaping the Maldives of tomorrow, a beacon of innovation and national pride that will thrive in harmony with nature. The financial centre will be a symbol of economic resilience and will set a new global benchmark that will massively benefit the people of the Maldives for generations to come.”
Minister of Finance for the Maldives said, “This is a momentous project. It offers a great opportunity to diversify our economy beyond tourism in line with our ambitions and will attract the best businesses and visionary entrepreneurs in the world.”
Nadeem Hussain, CEO of MBS Global Investments said, “The financial centre will set a new global benchmark, advancing financial innovation by at least two decades. It is the next evolution of what has been happening in other financial centres around the globe.”
MIFC will have a fully climate-resilient infrastructure, and the architecture and public spaces will be powered exclusively by renewable energy. The upper level of the development will be entirely car-free, with all transport and logistics infrastructure located underground to preserve a pedestrian-friendly, open-air environment.
It will offer a holistic lifestyle rooted in wellness and longevity – designed to be one of the most desirable places to live and work. It will feature world-class sports facilities, cutting-edge longevity and wellness centres, and shaded running and cycling tracks woven through expansive green spaces. Complementing its state-of-the-art office spaces, MIFC will also be home to premium retail, celebrated F&B destinations, and dynamic cultural venues – creating a truly integrated live-work-play environment.
This dynamic mixed-use development has been designed by master planner Architect Gianni Ranaulo, every structure from the overarching master plan to the individual buildings are inspired by the local fauna and marine eco-system. Ranaulo incorporates environmentally conscious practices in all projects. The total size of the development is 780,000 sqm where more than 6,500 people can reside, and an expected daily footfall of 35,000.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2025 – From March to April 2025, JCI Victoria conducted an online survey to examine the current situation, barriers, and needs of people with disabilities in Hong Kong regarding sports participation. The survey received responses from 285 participants. Over half of the respondents felt that the current sports resources provided by the government or sports organizations do not meet the developmental needs of people with disabilities in sports.
On May 3, 2025, JCI Victoria held a press conference at Hong Kong Red Cross Margaret Trench School to announce the survey findings. The event featured special guests, including Ms. Ho Yuen Kei, a Paralympic gold medalist in boccia and one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons in 2023; Mr. Ho Nim Ching, a Deaflympics taekwondo bronze medalist; and two young hearing-impaired athletes from Hong Kong’s first “Deaf-Inclusive Taekwondo Team” (sponsored by JCI Victoria), who recently returned from a training camp in South Korea. The speakers shared their experiences and insights, aiming to raise public awareness of the challenges faced by athletes with disabilities and propose concrete policy recommendations.
Key Survey Findings:
Demographics of Respondents
The survey encompassed a diverse range of respondents in terms of age, gender, and disability type. Approximately 60% of participants were male, while 30% were female, with half of all respondents under the age of 18. The most common disabilities reported included autism spectrum disorder (44%), intellectual disabilities (29%), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (27%).
Strong Motivation for Sports Participation – Health and Social Engagement
Despite facing physical limitations, people with disabilities exhibit a strong motivation to engage in sports. Nearly 70% of respondents maintain a regular exercise routine, with running, basketball, and swimming being the most popular activities. Their primary motivations for participating in sports are to improve health (87%), expand social circles (56%), and boost confidence and a sense of achievement (56%).
Lack of Accessibility and Disability-Friendly Facilities
Only 24% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the current sports facilities available in schools or communities, citing issues such as difficulty booking venues (42%), inadequate changing room space (38%), and a lack of accessible facilities and equipment tailored to their needs (29%). Many also highlighted challenges in traveling to sports venues, which discourages them from engaging in physical activity.
Lack of Coach Support for People with Disabilities
Another critical issue is the insufficient support from sports coaches. Many respondents noted that few coaches possess the necessary skills and experience to work effectively with people with disabilities. Key gaps include managing the emotions of children with special educational needs (SEN), providing clear verbal instructions for visually impaired individuals, and using sign language or gestures to guide hearing-impaired participants.
Insufficient Government Promotion – Low Awareness of Sports Resources
Only 30% of respondents had ever applied for sports-related support, such as competitions, public facilities, or funding. While 45% had participated in government or sports organization events for people with disabilities in the past three years, a mere 12% had attended five or more such events. This underscores the need for better promotion and transparency regarding existing programs.
Conclusion & Recommendations
The survey results show that despite physical limitations, people with disabilities remain highly motivated to engage in sports to broaden their social networks and boost self-confidence. However, Hong Kong currently fails to meet their needs due to inadequate facilities and insufficient support, which negatively impacts their sports experience and participation willingness.
While the government and some organizations offer sports resources and support programs, most people with disabilities are unaware of them due to poor promotion and transparency.
Respondents called for the government and sports institutions to take actionable steps, including increasing competition opportunities, enhancing professional training for coaches, improving publicity for disability sports programs, and providing better career planning and funding for elite athletes with disabilities. Such measures would empower them to represent Hong Kong on the international stage and inspire others to pursue their athletic dreams.
Speeches & Highlights from the Event
Ms. Jay Lee, President of JCI Victoria, emphasized that sports serve as a universal language to foster an inclusive and harmonious society. She accompanied taekwondo athletes with disabilities to a training camp in South Korea, describing “Boundless Dreams” as not just an event, but the starting point of a dream—where everyone can work together to achieve limitless possibilities.
Mr. Rafael Wong, National President of JCI Hong Kong China, praised the young leaders for organizing events that encourage sports participation among people with disabilities, including upcoming activities in Singapore. He highlighted the Seven Principles of Human Responsibility: protecting life, serving communities, sustainable futures, pursuing prosperity, teaching oneself and others, respecting individuality, and understanding diverse responsibilities. He stressed that people with disabilities can excel beyond expectations and encouraged greater support for their inclusion in sports.
Mr. Johnny Kwan, Guest of Honor (Member of North District Fight Crime Committee, Past President of JCI Hong Kong, President of GBA Education Development Association Hong Kong), noted that 2025 marks a significant year for sports in Hong Kong, with the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Village as a key venue for the National Games, which will also include Paralympic events. He urged public support, as sports can unite society and drive awareness of diversity issues.
Mr. Ho Nim Ching (Deaflympics Taekwondo Bronze Medalist & Event Ambassador) shared his struggles in securing resources for his athletic career, including self-funded overseas exchanges and difficulties in obtaining coaching qualifications. Despite challenges, his perseverance led to a bronze medal, proving that disabilities do not limit dreams.
Two young athletes from Hong Kong’s first “Deaf-Inclusive Taekwondo Team” shared their experiences from training in South Korea:
Ng Hoi Wang: Compared to Hong Kong, training in Korea was faster-paced and more intensive, involving running, jumping, and kicking drills. He expressed gratitude for the sponsorship and his mother’s support.
Law Pak Kiu: Aspires to become a taekwondo coach to support his family. Despite injuries, he persisted and hopes to pass on the skills he learned in Korea to fellow trainees.
“Boundless Dreams: Achieving Infinite Possibilities” Program Series
Despite Hong Kong’s success in international para-sports, local athletes still face challenges. JCI Victoria’s “Boundless Dreams” initiative, co-organized with Inclusive Sports Foundation and Feng Sheng Taekwondo Hong Kong, aims to break barriers and encourage people with disabilities to pursue sports.
Upcoming Events:
“Boundless Sports Day” (May 31, 2025) – Boccia workshop and exhibition match led by Ms. Ho Yuen Kei.
“Deaf Dream Day” (July 2025) – Table tennis training for hearing-impaired individuals by professional coaches.
JCI Victoria believes that promoting sports for people with disabilities not only advances athletic development but also fosters an inclusive, diverse society.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About JCI Victoria
Established in 1950, JCI Victoria is the first bilingual and mixed-gender chapter under JCI Hong Kong. As a non-profit organization, it brings together young professionals to develop leadership skills while serving society.
HONG KONG, May 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ottocast, a leading provider of aftermarket connectivity solutions for cars and smartphones, has proudly announced the launch of the new-generation Android car box NanoAI, integrating AI emotive display, voice assistant, CloudSIM and the Android 13 system to provide users with brand-new AI-enabled in-vehicle experience through upgraded intelligent solutions.
NanoAI is equipped with the elite-performance Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 chip, and the basic edition has a memory configuration of 8GB and 128GB. With the Android 13 system and CloudSIM, it can connect to the internet without Wi-Fi, hotspot or a physical SIM card. It also supports seamless switching of CarPlay, Android Auto and OttoDrive 2.5, providing more personalization options and full application access.
The interactive 1.83-inch AI screen responds to voice commands to ensure safer driving, and the AI-powered Co-Pilot makes conversations smoother and smarter. The enhanced control unlocks more apps and features beyond standard CarPlay or Android Auto, and users can customize the system for a tailored experience and stream videos, browse the web, or use non-native apps directly on the display.
“Nano is our answer to the future of smart cockpits. It represents not only a product upgrade, but also Ottocast’s new vision and thinking on the integration of user experience and AI,” said Hery Zeng, deputy director of Ottocast product development center.
NanoAI’s wireless connection simplifies smartphone interaction with the vehicle, while its plug-and-play installation ensures a clean setup without messy cables. Additionally, it enhances safety with GPS tracking and security features.
“The AI emotive display and voice control completely changes the way users communicate with the vehicles, in that it’s no longer an ice-cold piece of equipment, but more like a partner sitting at the co-pilot,” said Sophia Chang, CEO of Ottocast.
As Ottocast’s most forward-looking product, NanoAI not only is a major leap for Ottocast’s AI-enabled in-vehicle experience, but also represents the company’s entry into the smart AI cockpit sector and a turning point to shift the product strategy from “car adapter” to “intelligent car computing terminal,” lowering the threshold for smart cockpit upgrades and promoting the transition of the aftermarket to high value-added products.
Looking ahead, Ottocast will continue to expand its product line with commitment to further redefining the future of in-vehicle lifestyle through continuous innovation, turning the automobile into a true “third space.”
SHANGHAI, May 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On April 23, 2025, Nutshell Therapeutics ( Shanghai ) Co., LTD. received IND clearance from the FDA to initiate Phase 1 clinical trial in the United States for its NTS071, a novel small molecule allosteric reactivator targeting p53 Y220C mutation.
NTS071 is an oral small molecule allosteric reactivator targeting p53 Y220C with a novel scaffold. It selectively binds to the p53 Y220C mutant protein, improving its thermal stability, thereby enhancing the mutant protein’s ability to bind with DNA and restoring its transcriptional activity as well as tumor-suppressing function.
NTS071 was discovered by leveraging Nutshell’s proprietary AI driven allosteric small molecule drug discovery platform ALLOSTAR™. NTS071 demonstrated potential Best-in-Class preclinical properties for its target. NTS071 achieved a picomolar-level biochemical activity which is 20 folds more potent than the competitive compound PC14586. Additionally, NTS071 shows better stability in both liver microsomes and hepatocytes across different species and exhibits lower in vivo clearance rates and higher oral exposure s in preclinical PK studies across all tested species compared to PC14586. NTS071 has relatively lower plasma protein binding and higher free fraction than PC14586, which is beneficial for in vivo efficacy. NTS071 also addresses the CYP3A4 inhibition issue of PC14586, presenting lower risks for potential drug – drug interactions. NTS071 further displays a large safety window by exhibiting an overall good safety profile in non-clinical toxicology studies.
NTS071 exhibited dose-dependent in vivo anti-tumor activity in multiple CDX and PDX models harboring p53 Y220C mutation, spanning a number of different cancer types, including ovarian cancer, lung cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and bladder cancer, etc. Therefore, NTS071 has the potential to be a tumor-agnostic therapy for patients carrying p53 Y220C mutation. Compared to PC14586, NTS071 has shown significantly lower effective doses or better efficacy at the same dose level in all comparative preclinical in vivo studies, implying that NTS071 may overcome the limitation of its competitor that has a higher dose requirement, thereby potentially achieving better therapeutic effects. NTS071 is anticipated to initiate Phase 1 clinical trial in second half of 2025 and expected to benefit patients with solid tumors harboring this mutation.
p53 Y220C mutation is widespread in various solid tumors. Studies show that there are 125,000 to 150,000 new cases worldwide annually, representing a significant market potential. Enriched with years of accumulated experience with its proprietary computation-based allosteric drug development technology and breakthrough innovation capabilities at Nutshell Therapeutics, NTS071 has the potential to stand out among peer products and become the most competitive drug molecule for this target.
Nutshell Therapeutics (http://www.allonutshell.com/) is an innovative biotech company developing small molecule drugs for historically challenging targets employing allosteric mechanisms. Founded by Professor Zhang Jian, one of the leading figures in the allosteric drug discovery field globally, the company has established an integrated R&D platform with diverse dry and wet lab functions and has focused intensely on allosteric small – molecule drug discovery and development for many years. The company has successfully raised more than US$75 million from various well-known venture capitals.
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong (2nd at R) of the People's Action Party (PAP) greets his supporters at the partys gathering centre during the general election results, in Singapore on May 3, 2025. Singapore's ruling party headed for a crushing victory at general elections on May 3, sample counts showed, with voters giving Prime Minister Lawrence Wong the clear mandate he was seeking. (Photo by Roslan RAHMAN / AFP)
By Satish Cheney/AFP – Voters have handed Singapore’s long-time ruling party a landslide election victory, offering Prime Minister Lawrence Wong a clear mandate to navigate the trade-orientated Southeast Asian nation through economic upheaval sparked by looming US tariffs.
Wong’s People’s Action Party (PAP) took all but 10 seats in the 97-seat unicameral legislature with a total of 65.57 percent of the more than 2.4 million votes cast in the wealthy island state in 3-May’s polls.
“Singaporeans gave the PAP a strong mandate to govern,” Wong told a press conference hours after the official results were announced.
“The results will put Singapore in a better position to face this turbulent world,” he said, adding they were a “clear signal of trust, stability and confidence in your government.”
Wong was facing his first major test against a rejuvenated opposition and had urged voters to offer him a strong show of support amid the global economic uncertainties brought on by US President Donald Trump’s tough tariffs policy.
The PAP, which has steered the country to prosperity during its decades in power while being criticized for suppressing dissent, was always expected to easily retain a clear majority in the legislature.
Though its dominance had been increasingly challenged by a more vocal electorate over the years, the vote saw the PAP’s popularity climb as compared with 2020 elections.
Popular after leading Singapore’s Covid task force, Wong took over last year from his predecessor Lee Hsien Loong, the son of founding premier Lee Kuan Yew, who ruled the island state after its bitter break-up with Malaysia in 1965.
‘Reliable’
Wong had warned Singapore would be hit hard if Trump went ahead with the tariffs he announced, and then paused, for most countries, and that it needed to stay open and competitive to counter their effects.
He has also said the ructions caused could require a major restructuring of Singapore’s economy.
“The intense campaigning by PM Lawrence Wong and former PM Lee Hsien Loong in the hot seats must have helped a lot and the fear of Trump’s tariffs must have worried voters as well,” political observer and veteran former editor P.N Balji told AFP.
At a post-vote rally attended by cheering PAP supporters wearing white and waving flags with the party’s red lightning bolt symbol, one supporter told AFP he had voted for stability.
“The PAP is the government and most of the time, things have been going smoothly,” said Arham, an 18-year-old student. “To me, the PAP is reliable.”
Controversies
The overwhelming PAP majority has become a norm in Singapore’s political landscape.
But in the run-up to the latest polls, the PAP has faced a series of controversies.
Lee Hsien Loong is locked in a bitter feud with his brother Lee Hsien Yang, who vehemently supports the opposition and who has sought political asylum in Britain.
The long-running family row centers on allegations made by Lee Hsien Yang that his brother is seeking to block the demolition of a family bungalow to capitalize on Lee Kuan Yew’s legacy, something he has denied.
Last year, former transport minister S. Iswaran was thrown in jail for graft and in 2023, the parliament speaker and a lawmaker resigned over an “inappropriate” affair.
At the same time, younger voters showed themselves to be increasingly receptive to alternative political voices.
In 2020, the country’s largest opposition group, the Workers’ Party (WP), made historic gains, winning 10 of the 93 seats at stake, a significant jump from its previously held four seats.
The WP, which has become politically slicker, has been hoping to build on that momentum this time around with a slate of charismatic candidates, including a top lawyer.
The party pulled in massive crowds at its campaign rallies, but just like in previous elections, those big numbers failed to translate into major electoral gains.
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2025– A standout moment in the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025) was an extraordinary drone light show that lit up the skies over Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on April 28.
The drone light show in Ho Chi Minh City on April 28 featured an impressive fleet of 10,500 drones. Photo: Nguyễn Thế Dương
Featuring an impressive fleet of 10,500 drones, the performance dazzled spectators with vibrant, emotionally charged visuals that transformed the night sky and left an indelible impression on both locals and visitors.
The show dazzled spectators with vibrant, emotionally charged visuals that left an indelible impression on both locals and visitors. Photo: Nguyễn Thế Dương
The show was produced by Prowtech International Vina Joint Stock Company in partnership with domestic and international collaborators. More than a large-scale entertainment showcase, the spectacle embodied Vietnam’s spirit of innovation, resilience, and bold ambition in the digital era.
The performance was certified by Guinness World Records as the “largest drone light show by number of drones flying simultaneously.”
Most notably, the performance was officially certified by Guinness World Recordsas the “largest drone light show by number of drones flying simultaneously.”
For full event coverage and media assets, please visit:
The Mekong River (photo used for representational purposes: Rainforest Cruises)
Arsenic levels up to 19 times higher than safety limits have contaminated rivers feeding into the Mekong, putting downstream communities across Southeast Asia at risk.
The findings come from researchers from Thailand’s Mae Fah Luang University and the Northern Natural Disaster Research and Prediction Institute who uncovered the contamination during a field survey on 30 April
Led by Suebsakun Kidnukorn and Surapol Vorapatratorn, the team collected water samples from nine sites along the Sai, Ruak, and Mekong rivers in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand, after flash floods swept through the region the day before.
They noticed unusual residue along the banks of the Sai River, prompting further investigation. Laboratory tests later confirmed dangerously high arsenic levels in most of the sampled sites. Arsenic, a toxic metal, can cause serious long-term health issues, including cancer.
Eight of the nine test sites exceeded the World Health Organization’s safety threshold of 0.01 milligrams per litre.
The Sai River near Thamphachhom-Hua Fai and the 1st Thai–Myanmar Friendship Bridge both recorded levels of 0.14 milligrams per litre. An irrigation canal in Mueang Daeng village showed 0.18. The Ruak River near Vienghom and Sopruak villages, and the Sai River at the 2nd Thai–Myanmar Friendship Bridge, all came in at 0.12. Even the Mekong River at Wiang Chiang Saen Municipality reached 0.14. Only a small creek near Thamphachhom-Hua Fai stayed within safe limits.
The worst contamination, 0.19 milligrams per litre, occurred at the Golden Triangle, where the Ruak flows into the Mekong at the meeting point of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos.
Polluted water from this key junction continues its course downstream through Cambodia and Vietnam, affecting millions who rely on the Mekong River for drinking water, agriculture, and fishing.
The research team has already sent the samples for further analysis at a certified lab, but the early results have triggered widespread concern. Since the Sai River begins in Myanmar’s Shan State and flows through active mining areas, experts suspect that runoff from metal and mineral extraction has tainted the water.
The Burmese team conducts water testing on May 4, 2025. (Photo credit: The Irrawaddy – Burmese Edition)
A separate report from northern Laos, released on 28 April, revealed similar problems in the Phark River in La District, Oudomxai Province. Residents there raised alarms after gold mining near the river’s headwaters appeared to affect water quality.