Latest news with #SharonLu
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
GCAA-Volar dialogue in Beijing accelerates green aviation innovation and GAT Hub collaboration
Beijing – Regulators and industry leaders convened today in Beijing for the GCAA-Volar Dialogue: Pioneering Innovation in Green Aviation, co-hosted by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Volar Air Mobility (Volar). The Dialogue welcomed His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE GCAA; Mr. Henry Hooi, Chairman of Volar Air Mobility Holding Co.; Mr. Saif Aldarmaki, Chairman of Volar Air Mobility Industries and distinguished aviation industry pioneers. The event focused on the development of various green aviation technologies, including sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), electric & hydrogen propulsion technologies, AI pilot training, green materials and green infrastructure development. Renowned sustainability expert, Dr. Sharon Lu presented on the advancement of the SAF industry and the alignment of industry initiatives with ICAO's global decarbonization goals, highlighting opportunities for cross-border cooperation. Mr. Guo Yilin from Liaoning General Aviation Academy shared the development roadmap of the RX-series electric aircraft — the World's Widest series of Electric Aircraft. A key highlight was the progress of the Green Aviation Technology (GAT) Hub, an integrated incubation and commercialization platform ecosystem for sustainable aviation, established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed last year between the GCAA and Volar in Montreal during the ICAO Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium. Keynote Speech presented by His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the UAE GCAA, stating: 'Advancing green technologies is central to the UAE's vision for the future of aviation. We are committed to fostering innovation, supporting sustainable solutions, and strengthening international partnerships to drive real progress. The Green Aviation Technology (GAT) Hub stands as a key platform for collaboration towards cleaner skies and a more sustainable aviation future. Our partnership with Volar is an important step among many, reflecting the UAE's dedication to innovation and global cooperation.' Mr. Henry Hooi, Chairman of Volar Air Mobility Holding Co., highlighted the Hub's transformative impact: 'The GAT Hub is the launchpad for a new era of green aviation in the UAE ecosystem. By connecting technology, talent, and investment, we are building a platform for scalable solutions to redefine air mobility—both regionally and globally.' Mr. Saif Aldarmaki, Chairman of Volar Air Mobility Industries, supplemented: 'Today's dialogue is another step forward in our mission to empower local communities, enable sustainable air mobility options, and educate the next generation. Through the GAT Hub, we are determined to deliver real-world impact and foster responsible growth in aviation.' The session also featured perspectives from Dr. Yao Junchen and Ms. Zhang Xue, Co-Founding Members of the International Association for Green Aviation (IAGA), who emphasized the vital importance of academia-industry collaboration and shared actionable insights for fostering green aviation innovation and talent development. The Dialogue facilitated introductions between the UAE and leading Chinese technology companies — Zhonghang Shanda Superalloys, Zhuhai Xiangyi Aviation Technology, Guofu Hydrogen and Beijing Urban Construction Design & Development Group Co. — each exploring opportunities to expand or further strengthen their presence within the UAE's flourishing green aviation ecosystem. In the Closing Remarks, Volar announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Falcon Aviation on the commercialization of electric aircraft in the UAE. This partnership marks a significant step towards accelerating the adoption and integration of electric aircraft in the region, further demonstrating the UAE's commitment to sustainable and innovative air mobility solutions. About UAE GCAA The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) was established in 1996 by Federal Cabinet Decree (Law4) as the national regulatory authority for civil aviation in the United Arab Emirates. Its core mission is to oversee and develop the civil aviation sector in line with the highest standards of safety, security, and sustainability. In alignment with the UAE government's forward-looking vision and national priorities, the GCAA is committed to building a globally leading aviation system that fosters innovation, develops Emirati capabilities, and enhances the UAE's position as a hub for safe, secure, and sustainable air transport. For more information, visit: For media inquiries, please contact: communication@ About Volar Air Mobility Volar Air Mobility is a pioneering company in the field of advanced air mobility solutions, dedicated to developing sustainable aviation technologies that drive the future of air travel and reduce environmental impact. The company is dedicated to fostering sustainable aviation technologies that contribute to a green future. For more information, visit: For media inquiries, please contact: info@
Independent Singapore
3 days ago
- Health
- Independent Singapore
Experts link rise in suicides among Singaporeans in their 30s to job insecurity, family pressures, and mental health stress
SINGAPORE: Job insecurity, family pressures, and mental health struggles are among the reasons behind the rise in suicides among those in their 30s in Singapore, according to experts. New figures released on July 19 showed 75 individuals in their 30s died by suicide in 2024, up from 66 in the previous year. It was also the highest number recorded among all age groups, based on provisional data cited by Channel News Asia (CNA) . Principal clinical psychologist Dr Sharon Lu of the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) told CNA that those in their 30s—the sandwich generation—juggle building their careers, raising children, and caring for ageing parents, while also managing financial pressure. At the same time, they worry about job security, housing loans, and daily family expenses. 'The pressure to meet societal expectations and perceived life achievements can further compound these stresses and create social isolation,' she added. Dr Lu noted that suicide is rarely caused by one issue alone and is the result of biological, psychological, social, and cultural risk factors, along with a lack of resilience factors. See also Woman who threw her son from 9th storey flat jailed 5 years While many assume that depression is the cause of all suicides, Dr Lu said that 'someone who is not depressed can still be suicidal.' Psychiatrist and deputy medical director Dr David Teo of Connections MindHealth said many in their 30s start to question whether they've reached the goals they set in their 20s, and when those go unfulfilled, it can lead to 'a sense of failure or hopelessness.' He also pointed to the role of social media, which often fuels comparison and leaves people feeling left behind. SOS' senior manager and lead counsellor Chan May Peng also noted that those in their 30s are 'at crossroads'—questioning career choices, managing relationship commitments, and adjusting to caregiving roles, with some having little or no support. Dr Teo said having a strong social support system is important, while Dr Lu added that prioritising self-care, practicing self-compassion, and maintaining a clear work-life balance can help too. See also NTUC Study reveals Singaporeans fear becoming Sandwich Generation 'Sometimes, people may feel like they don't have enough time for self-care, but it is not something to be done only when it's convenient,' said Dr Lu. Regular exercise, getting enough sleep, meditation, and improving financial habits can all help. Ms Chan also suggested simple ways to reset mentally, like taking short walks in the park while listening to music, journaling, and shifting focus away from overwhelming thoughts, which can create space for emotional recovery and reduce mental load. Experts advised checking in, listening, and encouraging those showing signs of distress or talking about death. Mental health professionals pointed out that signs of stress may not always be obvious. Changes in sleep and appetite, physical fatigue, irritability, or anxiety could be warning signs. Ms Chua from SOS said asking someone directly if they've been thinking about suicide creates a safe space for someone to open up. Dr Teo added that you can also encourage them to seek professional help immediately and check in with them regularly to remind them they're not alone. Dr Lu said giving away personal items, pulling away from others, or changes in what they like or share on social media could be signs someone is at risk. Many who are suicidal already feel guilty or like a burden. What they need most, said Ms Chan, is someone who will listen without judgment, validate their pain, and encourage them to seek help. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available through the National Mental Health Helpline (1771), the Samaritans of Singapore Hotline (1767), and the Singapore Association for Mental Health Helpline (1800 283 7019). /TISG Read also: Chinese company's 'unhappy leave' draws mixed reactions from netizens; one says it's just a way of 'protecting their loss margin'
Mint
4 days ago
- Health
- Mint
Unfulfilled dreams: Suicide cases rise for people in their 30s; no, it's not just depression
Financial stress, caregiving duties and career demands are causing burnout among Singaporeans in their 30s. Experts warn that this 'sandwich generation' faces rising suicide rates. In 2024, 75 people aged 30-39 died by suicide, up from 66 in 2023. This was the highest for any age group. Samaritans of Singapore say these adults encounter unique pressures. They have unstable jobs, family issues and mental health problems. Dr Sharon Lu thinks suicide usually results from a combination of factors, not just depression. 'It is often assumed that depression is the cause of all suicides, but suicide is often due to the interaction of a myriad of factors and life circumstances,' the South China Morning Post quoted Lu as saying. 'Depression may be one of the many stressors an individual is struggling with, but someone who is not depressed can still be suicidal,' she added. People in their 30s may be vulnerable to severe emotional strain. They have to manage multiple responsibilities. They need to manage careers, children, ageing parents and financial commitments. According to Lu, juggling parenting, relationships and elderly care deeply impacts mental health in their 30s. The pressure of meeting society's expectations adds to isolation. Psychiatrist Dr David Teo believes disappointment from unmet life goals creates feelings of failure. He said comparing lives with others on social media increases stress and feelings of being left behind. 'Goals and dreams from their 20s that remain unfulfilled can lead to a sense of failure or hopelessness,' SCMP quoted him as saying. Also, physical health problems and new mental health conditions often emerge in this difficult life stage, according to Teo. The concern is not only about people in Singapore. Recent data shows Indians aged between 30 and 44 face a rising suicide risk. In 2022, people aged 18–30 accounted for 35% of suicides, followed closely by those aged 30–45 at 32%. Together, these age groups made up 67% of all suicide deaths. Suicides in India increased from 1,64,033 in 2021 to 1,70,924 in 2022, according to NCRB data. Cities reported higher suicide rates compared to the national average. Family problems (31.7%), illness (18.4%) and marriage issues (4.8%) accounted for over half the suicides. Men made up 71.8% of victims. Tamil Nadu reported the highest mass suicide cases, followed by Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reaching out to a suicide helpline can provide immediate, confidential and compassionate support. Here are some of those: KIRAN Helpline: 1800-599-0019
South China Morning Post
4 days ago
- Health
- South China Morning Post
Singapore's suicide surge: why are more young people taking their own lives?
Financial pressures, the strain of caregiving and the demands of building a career are increasingly pushing Singaporeans in their thirties to breaking point, with experts warning of a sharp rise in burnout and suicide among the so-called sandwich generation. Advertisement Provisional statistics released last Saturday showed that 75 people in their thirties took their own lives in 2024, up from 66 the year before. This age group accounted for the highest number of suicides last year. According to the Samaritans of Singapore, people in their thirties face a unique constellation of complex pressures, from family issues and job instability to mounting mental health challenges. But suicide is rarely attributable to a single cause. Rather, it arises from what Dr Sharon Lu, principal clinical psychologist at Singapore's Institute of Mental Health, described as an 'interplay of biological, psychological, social and cultural risk factors', compounded by a lack of resilience. A customer withdraws banknotes from an ATM in Singapore. Financial pressures are among the myriad factors that drive people to suicide, experts say. Photo: AFP 'It is often assumed that depression is the cause of all suicides, but suicide is often due to the interaction of a myriad of factors and life circumstances,' Lu said. Advertisement 'Depression may be one of the many stressors an individual is struggling with, but someone who is not depressed can still be suicidal.'
