Latest news with #CPAS
Arab News
24-06-2025
- Science
- Arab News
Indonesian researchers unearth 500,000-year-old elephant fossils in Java
Jakarta: Indonesian researchers have discovered fossils of a prehistoric elephant in Central Java, which they estimate are around 500,000 years old. The fossils were found in Patiayam, an archaeological site and mountainous area situated on the border of the Kudus and Pati regencies in Central Java, where, throughout the years, ancient animal fossils have been found. In 2024, a collaborative team organized by the Center for Prehistory and Austronesian Studies, the Dharma Bakti Lestari Foundation and the National Research and Innovation Agency, known locally as BRIN, launched a research project at the site to explore fossil possibilities. Though the initial discovery was made then, researchers postponed the project until this year and expanded the site of excavation, which is still ongoing. 'Based on the geological formation of the site where it was found, we estimate that the fossils are at least 500,000 years old, give or take. We have yet to conduct a direct dating of the fossils, so this is based on a relative dating of the soil layer,' Mohammad Ruly Fauzi, researcher at CPAS and BRIN, told Arab News. 'We have been able to identify that these belong to an elephas type, but not the specific species … What's clear is that this is a very big elephant, nothing like elephants today …. It's prehistoric, not early historic period.' He said the excavation has made about 50 percent progress and that the elements found so far make up the front part of an elephant. 'It's interesting because this is shaping up to be an almost complete fossil … They are all situated pretty closely.' Once the excavation is completed, the fossils will be preserved as part of a collection at the Patiayam Archaeological Museum. The discovery might help Patiayam gain recognition as a cultural heritage site, Fauzi added. 'Every site has its own unique qualities, but Patiayam site is particularly interesting and very deserving to gain status as a national cultural heritage site in our opinion … This research can help serve as a foundation for officials to decide,' he said. Central Java, where Patiayam is located, is also home to the Sangiran Early Man Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its significant collection of Homo erectus fossils, dating from 1.1 million to 800,000 years ago, including the 'Java Man.'
The Hindu
12-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Self-financing educational institutions accountable under RTI: Kerala State Information Commission
In a landmark decision, the Kerala State Information Commission has ruled that all self-financing educational institutions affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University fall within the ambit of the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The order was issued in connection with a complaint against the Chuttippara Nursing Education Institute, which had refused to respond to an RTI query related to the death of a student. State Information Commissioner A. Abdul Hakkeem, who issued the directive, also brought the Centre for Professional and Advanced Studies (CPAS)—the agency coordinating these institutions—under the scope of the RTI Act. The case stems from a petition filed by T. Sajeev, father of Ammu Sajeev, a nursing student who died in the institute's hostel on November 15, 2024. Seeking details surrounding his daughter's death, Mr. Sajeev submitted an RTI request, which the institution denied, claiming exemption on the grounds that it is a private entity. 'Unlawful' The commission, however, rejected this argument and said that the refusal to share information was unlawful. A previous order issued on February 19 had already directed the institute to provide Mr. Sajeev with all relevant documents free of charge. The institution, however, failed to comply with the directive, prompting a second complaint. In the new order, the commission instructed the Chuttippara Nursing Education Institute to hand over all requested information to Mr. Sajeev by May 17 and to submit an acknowledgment receipt to the commission by May 20. Under constitutional provisions The ruling clarified that any self-financing institution established through constitutional provisions, legislative enactments, government decisions or administered by government-appointed committees is subject to the RTI Act. Hence, the CPAS and its affiliated colleges must appoint designated Public Information Officers and Appellate Authorities. The commission mandated that these directives be fully implemented by May 16, with a compliance report submitted by May 25. Responsibility for enforcing the order has been assigned jointly to the Higher Education Secretary and the Director of the CPAS. If the Chuttippara Nursing Education Institute continues to withhold information, the commission has instructed its director to appear in person before it in Thiruvananthapuram on June 4, along with all relevant records.
Malay Mail
07-05-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Bee Choo Origin Strengthens CSR Efforts with Electric Van Donation to NKF
Bee Choo Origin Strengthens CSR Efforts with Electric Van Donation to NKF Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS) – Through their partnership with the Goodwill, Rehabilitation & Occupational Workshop (GROW), Bee Choo Origin contributes to empowering individuals with cerebral palsy by supporting initiatives that promote meaningful employment, skills development, and greater independence. – Through their partnership with the Goodwill, Rehabilitation & Occupational Workshop (GROW), Bee Choo Origin contributes to empowering individuals with cerebral palsy by supporting initiatives that promote meaningful employment, skills development, and greater independence. Metta Welfare Association – Bee Choo Origin supports Metta's programmes and the Maitri School, which focuses on uplifting individuals with special needs through tailored education, dedicated care, and inclusive community engagement. – Bee Choo Origin supports Metta's programmes and the Maitri School, which focuses on uplifting individuals with special needs through tailored education, dedicated care, and inclusive community engagement. A Packet of Rice – By sponsoring meals, Bee Choo Origin helps provide essential nourishment to underprivileged individuals and families across Singapore, contributing to food security and community welfare. SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 7 May 2025 – Bee Choo Origin, Singapore's leading herbal hair care brand that specialises in hair fall treatment and oily scalp treatment , has reaffirmed its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) with the donation of an electric passenger van to The National Kidney Foundation (NKF). This marks a significant step in enhancing patient mobility while promoting sustainable transport donation is part of the long tradition of Bee Choo Origin supporting NKF, reflecting its dedication to making a positive impact beyond the beauty industry. The electric van, which is the first of its kind in NKF's fleet, will be used to provide transportation for kidney patients who require regular dialysis treatments but face difficulties commuting to and from medical donation from Bee Choo Origin supports NKF's Wheeling for Love & Hope Programme, which provides free transport services to patients struggling with mobility issues. The new electric van is designed with built-in access steps and spacious seating, ensuring safe and comfortable travel for patients. It is expected to facilitate up to 1,044 trips annually, benefiting approximately 72 patients per many kidney patients, travelling to dialysis centres three times a week can be physically demanding and financially burdensome. NKF's transport programme alleviates this challenge, offering patients reliable and accessible transportation at no cost. The introduction of an electric van further enhances this initiative by reducing carbon emissions and lowering operational costs in the long run.'We're deeply honoured to partner with NKF on this meaningful initiative,' said Ms. Lim Xue Ting, General Manager of Bee Choo Origin. 'Dialysis is a lifeline for many, and we hope this contribution helps ease the journey for patients while also supporting a greener, more sustainable future. At Bee Choo Origin, community care and environmental responsibility are values we hold close, and this donation is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to both.'Bee Choo Origin has been a steadfast supporter of NKF for several years, previously donating five dialysis machines since 2018 to enhance treatment capacity. The latest contribution of an electric van builds upon this partnership, reinforcing the brand's dedication to social its work with NKF, Bee Choo Origin has actively supported various charitable organisations through its CSR initiatives, including:In 2019, the brand's founder, Mdm Cheah Bee Chew, personally donated $150,000 from the sales proceeds of her biography to multiple social causes, demonstrating her deep-rooted belief in Bee Choo Origin celebrates its 25th anniversary, the brand is looking ahead to more initiatives that align with both environmental responsibility and community welfare. The transition to electric transport solutions is a step towards reducing carbon footprints while improving the quality of life for those in need."We believe that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to society in meaningful ways," added Ms. Lim Xue Ting. "Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a difference. We hope our contributions inspire other companies and individuals to support those in need."Moving forward, the brand's CSR efforts will continue to focus on improving lives and giving back to the community. Plans are already underway for future community initiatives, reinforcing the brand's mission of creating lasting positive #BeeChooOrigin The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Bee Choo Origin Founded in 2000, Bee Choo Origin is Singapore's leading hair care brand, specialising in natural, chemical-free herbal hair treatment for hair loss and scalp health. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Bee Choo Origin has expanded globally, offering effective treatments backed by traditional Chinese herbs and modern science. Beyond hair care, the brand actively supports community initiatives, including healthcare and sustainability efforts, reinforcing its dedication to making a positive impact in both beauty and society.
