Commentary: China’s New Year pay hike can’t mask its deeper economic troubles

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MORE MEASURES NEEDED

Civil service jobs in China are highly coveted, as evidenced by the report 3.4 million candidates who sat for the quarterly civil service exam last quarter, competing for only 39, 700 opportunities. These tasks are often seen as an “iron grain bowl”, offering stability and security.

However, it is difficult to calculate how much a legal servant’s ‘ salary actually earns due to the layered structure of their earnings. During the past give hike in 2015, it was reported that regular standard pay ranged from 1, 320 renminbi for the lowest-ranked civil servants to 11, 385 yuan for national-level officials. Civil servants are also entitled to various accommodations and subsidies according to their rank and rank in addition to standard give.

The most recent pay raise is good meant to underscore that civil servants are essential to the proper functioning of the government and that they are responsible for maintaining their moral character. But the magnification of it risk alienating the broader community, especially private-sector personnel who face rising employment insecurity.

A clear plan could fail by provoking public scrutiny or generating extra demands, which contributes to the relative secrecy surrounding pay raise for legal servants.

In his New Year information, President Xi Jinping expressed his confidence in China’s market but acknowledged the Chinese government faces “new parameters”, including issues internally and externally.

To handle these issues, China may acquire long-term reforms that go beyond one-off spend adjustments.

To maintain and promote private investment, the Taiwanese government needs to take steps privately to identify the rule of law based on the fundamental rights of private home.

China will need to collaborate more strongly with its main business partners, including the United States and the European Union, to improve their current cooperation and establish proper respect.

As Xi said:” Dreams and wishes may be far, but they can be fulfilled with dedicated pursuit”.

Bo Zhiyue is the author on China’s elite politics and the founder and president of the Bo Zhiyue China Institute, a consulting firm that provides services to government officials and CEOs of multinational corporations.

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‘I worry if he’s taken care of’: The tears and fears of millennial caregivers to siblings with special needs

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In: South-East Asia

Ms Chandramogan, a independent psychological doctor, had much decided that she would take care of her elder stepson, 37-year-old Balamurugan Chandramogan, for the rest of her career.

Their glycemic mother was left wheelchair-bound after having a below-the-knee amputation seven years ago, and their father quickly passed away in his sleep, making Ms. Chandramogan the primary caretaker.

She previously considered placing her brother in a facility for adults with disabilities, but the lengthy waiting lists and overpowering” sense of guilt” led her to reconsider.

She told CNA, “I’ll inquire myself why I’m not ready to do enough for him so I have to move to houses for assistance.” And I worry about whether he is being properly cared for because he will be there for a long time with tight visiting restrictions.

Her nephew has the mental age of a three- to four-year-old, and can do simple everyday functions like showering, eating and wearing clothes. However, learning how to handle money, feel secure, and understand social signals are still difficult. &nbsp,

” I know his medications, how comfortable he is feeling and even his spice tolerance when he comes to food” ,&nbsp, said Ms Chandramogan. &nbsp,

” So it’s a combination of being the younger child, the older child, and the parent at the same time,” he said.

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Commentary: Be careful about predicting downfall of Myanmar’s ‘failed junta’ as it enters fifth year in power

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False THINKING

Needless to say, those statements proved to be quite early. More than any goal analysis, it most reflected hopeful thinking. Even then, 12 weeks later, some observers are insisting that the coup is “in end drop”.

Despite its countless difficulties, the junta has proven remarkably resilient. It also controls Myanmar’s financial heartland and the bulk of the population. It is supported by China and Russia, both of whom are providing hands and political defense. The junta enjoys major export revenues and is able to dodge the majority of its sanctions. It has also demonstrated that, when required, it can be flexible, and may affect ceasefire talks with its competitors.

The criticism movement has made significant defense gains, but it still has squabbled over strategic goals. Although the tribal armed groups and NUG have a common objective, little has been agreed on other issues. Despite military successes, the opposition also suffers from a lack of sources. The NUG has been unable to secure destructive assistance or official recognition from any international institutions.

What will happen in 2025 is a challenge to foresee. Myanmar has always been able to surprise spectators. One important factor to observe, however, will be the continuing devotion and unity of the armed forces, which holds the key to the regime’s success. There are obviously deep holes in the Tatmadaw but, to time, it has maintained its domestic discipline and, so-called “defectors” away, obeyed the regime’s purchases.

In that respect, however, the detection last year of a latent recruitment law constitutes a major gamble. Great care has been taken for years to shape and influence the thinking of the armed troops rank and file. Therefore, the introduction of more than 20 000 angry and possibly mutinous men and women, who are probably all trained and armed, must be seen as a real threat. It suggests that the military’s workforce shortfall is still a significant issue.

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Meltdowns and moments of joy – the journey of millennial caregivers to siblings with special needs

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In: South-East Asia

Ms Chandramogan, a independent psychological doctor, had much decided that she would take care of her elder stepson, 37-year-old Balamurugan Chandramogan, for the rest of her career.

Seven years ago, their diabetic family had to have her legs amputated below the knee, which made her wheelchair-bound, and in 2023 their father passed away quickly in his slumber, making Ms. Chandramogan the primary carer in the family.

She previously considered placing her brother in a facility for adults with disabilities, but the lengthy waiting lists and overpowering” sense of guilt” led her to reconsider.

She told CNA, “I’ll inquire myself why I’m not ready to do enough for him so I have to move to houses for assistance.” And I regret knowing that he will be there for a long time with tight visiting restrictions, and that I would be concerned if he is being cared for.

Her nephew has the mental age of a three- to four-year-old, and can do simple everyday functions like showering, eating and wearing clothes. However, learning how to handle money, feel secure, and understand interpersonal signals are still difficult. &nbsp,

” I know his medications, how comfortable he is feeling and even his spice tolerance when he comes to food” ,&nbsp, said Ms Chandramogan. &nbsp,

” So it’s a combination of being the younger child, the older child, and the family at the same time,” he said.

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Commentary: DeepSeek and Huawei show US restrictions didn’t burst China’s tech ambitions. They made them bigger

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The effects of this technology dispersion are significant. For buyers, it means a world of irreconcilable requirements, with Harmony OS probably becoming a major system across the Global South where China’s effect is growing. The product’s success in China’s enormous domestic sector alone would make it a force to be reckoned with, even though non-Chinese companies face significant obstacles in their implementation.

For companies, the issue is even more serious. Companies increasingly face an impossible decision: Maintain exposure to the Chinese market and danger US restrictions, or coincide with US legislation and experience Chinese retribution.

Former National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s perception of a” little garden, great gate” approach has morphed into an ever-expanding backyard with significantly higher fences.

The broad US silicon controls implemented in soon 2024, followed by former President Joe Biden’s three-tier AI controls as his government’s last volley, demonstrate this ongoing mission creep.

Washington has responded by casting an even wider net over critical technologies like advanced AI chips and ultra-fast memory chips used for advanced computing as each new restriction has been undermined by Chinese workarounds and inconsistent US application.

Beijing’s evolving counter-strategy, from targeting American drone maker Skydio’s battery supply chain, a ban on the export of dual-use commodities, notably graphite, germanium, gallium and antimony to launching probes into US chip exports, signals a clear escalation in its response to Washington’s containment efforts.

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This Sumatra island is known for tin production and deadly crocodile attacks. What’s the link?

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Bangka contributes 90 per share to regional metal output, according to Indonesia’s department of energy and nutrient solutions.

For decades, tin mine in Bangka was done by state-owned business PT Timah, but for more than a decade, illegal mine has been prevalent.

Small-scale miners perhaps me in areas that have been designated for different purposes, such as secured forest areas or concessions of businesses that are undergoing reclaimed.

“We know illegal mines are rampant – behind a school, near office buildings, so it ’s everywhere, ” said Langka.

“Estuarine crocodiles ( Crocodylus porosus ) live near estuaries. They don’t reside in profound river or in the ocean. When illegal mine is carried out close to rivers, the turtles may be harmed. ”

Estuarine turtles, also known as salt crocodiles, are the largest of all reptile species and can increase up to 7m in length and weigh about 1,000kg.    

They are extremely sensitive to sound, said Langka.  

“If there are many illegal mining ( sites ), the sounds will make them feel stressed, and they will try to fight or migrate.

“Sometimes they attack the unlawful workers or fly river, but when they find a new location, there are already various alligators. ”

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Police to auction station building at fire-sale price

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PUBLISHED: 31 Jan 2025 at 04: 00

An image of Klangdong police station's administrative building set to be auctioned off at a starting price of 18,800 baht. Klangdong Police Station
The operational tower at the Klangdong police station will be auctioned off for 18 800 baht starting from today. Klangdong Police Station

At a starting cost of 18, 800 baht, an old tower at the Klangdong Police Station in Nakhon Ratchasima is set to go under the nail.

Netizens shocked by the small opening price have broadly shared information about the anticipated auction.

The station has made it known via online auctions that will be held to offer its two-story, concrete lower floor and earthen upper floor operational building.

The clear building, located on common property behind a new 22-million-baht operational creating which recently opened, may be put up for auction on Feb 10, according to the news.

Before the bidding begins at 10am, or after officials have finished reviewing all bidders ‘ enrollment documents, serious bidders may register between 9am and 9:50am.

Pol Lt Auychai Promwong, chief investigator at Klangdong police station, apparently took potential bidders on a tour of the building.

Regulations mandate that the successful bidder clean the environment at the destroyed site, taking possession of and walk all the developing materials, and destroy the old creating.

Prawit Warathanawat, a prospective buyer, said some tower materials, such as metal bars in the confinement cells, metal entry frames and stainless steel bannisters, were of tradable value.

He claimed that because of the lower starting cost, he was drawn.

Nevertheless, he was concerned about the disposal of building materials that couldn’t be sold.

Klangdong is one of the four officers facilities that the Pak Chong city police are responsible for.

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New unit to curb exploitation

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PUBLISHED: 31 Jan 2025 at 04: 00

A special task force headed by the Department of Business Development ( DBD ) has been established to stop unlicensed entities from deceiving the public.

The program aims to put strict rules in place to stop future abuse and economic harm.

Auramon Supthaweethum, DBD director-general, stated that Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisanpang had instructed the section to understand the government’s response to recent studies that a Twitter user lost more than 1.2 million ringgit to a contact center group.

According to Ms. Auramon, the funds were diverted to a business bank account that some believed to be a mule account.

The DBD is strengthening assistance with law enforcement to prosecute criminals in order to avoid similar situations from occurring in the future, she said.

She said that DBD assistant director-general Jitakorn Wongkhatekorn had outlined its important characteristics.

One of them is requiring documentation to be submitted in order to add an extra layer of security to business registrations or address changes.

The evidence must establish that a landowner requests to having their property leased by a company.

Another step involves the creation of an net identification system that lets the people find out if their house is being used without their knowledge or consent to serve as a business address.

This method is anticipated to start operating in two weeks.

Additionally, the division will collaborate with Thailand Post to use Google Maps data to confirm verified business locations for clarity.

However, business licenses with incorrect names may be marked as “invalid” and may be referred to authorities for legal actions.

There will be steps being taken to stop people who are connected to economic crimes from registering organizations. This is done in close cooperation with the Anti-Money Laundering Office.

However, enforcement of the law against fraudulent corporate filings may be strengthened, with sanctions including fines and imprisonment for submitting false information.

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Drug operation kicks off

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PUBLISHED: 31 Jan 2025 at 04: 00

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presides over the launch of the 'Seal Stop Safe' anti-drug operation in 51 border districts with the goal of stamping out drug problems in those areas within six months. Chanat Katanyu
The” Seal Stop Safe” anti-drug procedure has been launched in 51 frontier towns with the aim of eradicating drug problems in those places in six months, as the prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra ruled. Chanat Katanyu

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra formally launched the anti-drug activity” Seal Stop Safe” tuesday, aiming to fight drug trafficking in 51 frontier towns across 14 regions.

The program, which will run from February to July, is anticipated to have significant positive effects on eradication of the drug problem in six weeks.

Ms. Paetongtarn emphasized the government’s dedication to drug prevention and control at the start event held at the Santimaitri Building at Government House.

” Our federal very emphasises its substance policy”, she said. ” Opioids have hindered the potential of so many people, and if we end this difficulty, the full potential of Thais may be restored”.

To improve border security and stop the flow of illegal drugs into the nation, the procedure involves 76 police facilities, which integrate military forces with other authorities.

Ms Paetongtarn assured that state aid, including welfare gains, may be provided to officers on the front lines.

Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand’s deputy prime minister, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that there are numerous points of entry for pharmaceutical smuggling along the country’s borders.

Border officials are unable to handle every healthy crossing on their own. This activity strengthens our substance protection procedures, and if no significant improvement is observed within six weeks, greater protocols will be enforced”, said Mr Phumtham, who also serves as the defence secretary.

Authorities will work closely with defense troops, according to National Police Chief Kittharath Punpetch, and establish gates in troubled areas.

Gen Phana Khlaeoplotthuk, the army’s chief of staff, detailed the government’s role, revealing plans to increase boundary patrols, increase the number of gates in those places, and use advanced surveillance equipment like drones and compact X-ray scanners.

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Anutin vows action over data breach

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PUBLISHED: 31 Jan 2025 at 04: 00

According to Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the government may bring legal actions against a group of online gamers who allegedly targeted and attacked another enthusiasts using personal information they had obtained through the legal registration system.

Mr. Anutin made reference to a group called” Oreo,” which is comprised of FiveM online gamers.

One of the team’s users claimed to be able to access the government databases and find specific information about the party’s rivals, which members would then use to harm or abuse the victims, according to a Twitter post by E-Sor Khayee Khao.

The representative was alleged to be able to do so because his partner is a police officer’s daughter.

Additionally, it stated that the party had also posted a picture of a rival gamer’s assault online before contacting the authorities to request an investigation into the alleged violation of personal data.

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society did investigate, according to Mr. Anutin.

When asked to comment on the state that the team was able to obtain sensitive information when a police officer’s certificates were abused, Mr. Anutin said that anyone who violates the law will face punishment, regardless of who they are.

Personal details in the legal registry database is kept private and no illegal entry is permitted, according to Interior Ministry spokesperson Traisuree Taisaranakul.

After finding a picture of him beating up a person with a baseball bat, officers called the leader of the group, who is only identified as Ta, to the Khlong Luang Police Station in Pathum Thani.

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