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US medical device maker Dexcom opens Penang factory with RM2.83b investment

BATU KAWAN: US-based medical devices company Dexcom Inc has officially opened its manufacturing facility, also its first offshore manufacturing site outside the United States, in Batu Kawan, Penang.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the RM2.83 billion strategic investment will bring more than 3,000 jobs to the state, contributing to a workforce set to positively impact the lives of over three million people worldwide.

Dexcom, founded in 1999, is a global leader in continuous glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology for individuals living with diabetes.

“The establishment of this new facility highlights Dexcom’s continued commitment to take control of health through innovative CGM systems. It also reaffirms Penang’s reputation as a global hub for advanced technological industries, reinforcing its position as a preferred destination for high-quality manufacturing and innovation,” the chief minister said in his speech at the opening ceremony here today.

Chow said Penang is on the right path towards becoming the medical technology (medtech) hub of Southeast Asia by leveraging on the state’s over 50 years of industry excellence.

“Housing the largest number of medtech companies nationally and regionally, Penang remains a highly attractive location for its infrastructure availability and ecosystem that meet the needs of the medtech industry.

“For the past five years (2019-2023), Penang garnered a total of RM5.8 billion worth of investments in the scientific and measuring equipment sector, representing 45% of the nation’s total investments in this sector, involving 33 projects and generating an estimated 4,630 employment opportunities,” he said.

Dubbed the Silicon Valley of the East, Penang has the highest concentration of medical technology companies in Malaysia and Southeast Asia to date. – Bernama




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Takaful association: Step up collaboration to ensure medical insurance remains affordable

KUALA LUMPUR: As the takaful industry contends with escalating medical inflation and the rising costs of healthcare, the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) has called for increased government and private sector collaboration to ensure affordable, accessible protection options for all Malaysians.

MTA CEO Mohd Radzuan Mohamed envisions takaful becoming a leading option for Malaysians seeking protection.

With only 60% of the population currently insured or covered by takaful, he sees untapped potential among the remaining 40%, primarily in underserved and unserved communities.

“Our goal is to make takaful an accessible option, particularly for groups like the BM40 (top 20% of B40 and bottom 40% M40), who often do not receive enough attention from traditional agents,” he told SunBiz at the recent launch of Hijrah27.

Radzuan said the takaful sector has struggled to expand its market share, currently at about 20% after four decades.

In response, he said, they are considering how digital transformation, distribution enhancements and technology can address these challenges.

“Malaysia’s transformation plan and recent initiatives, like the financial sector blueprint, outline steps to close this gap by focusing on underserved communities, leveraging financial literacy campaigns, and engaging technology to make takaful accessible,” he added.

Additionally, he said co-payments, a shared cost model between the insurer and the insured, is seen as a potential solution to rising premiums fuelled by medical inflation.

“Collaborating with the Ministry of Health and Bank Negara Malaysia, takaful providers aim to develop cost-sharing models that help balance affordability and coverage. With co-payments, premiums could become more manageable, helping to mitigate the effects of medical inflation and making Takaful accessible for more people.”
While the adoption of co-payments is currently optional, Radzuan said, making it mandatory could have far-reaching implications on the takaful industry. “A balanced co-payment structure can be beneficial, but affordability must remain a priority to avoid defeating the purpose of protection,” he emphasised.

Looking forward, Radzuan said the association is exploring new technology-driven initiatives, such as the Hijrah27 framework, to improve customer service and operational efficiency. “Collaborations with fintech firms and the rise of AI-based solutions also show promise in elevating the industry’s standards and expanding reach,” he added.




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Anwar’s Egypt visit unlocks RM4.8 billion in export potential - MITI

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to Egypt has bolstered Malaysia-Egypt bilateral relations, unlocking RM4.8 billion (US$1.1 billion) in potential export opportunities for Malaysia, according to the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).

MITI stated that this export potential was largely generated through a roundtable meeting attended by 60 industry and business leaders from 47 Egyptian firms and key business associations, as well as 40 representatives from 20 Malaysian companies.

“During the session, productive discussions between Malaysian and Egyptian companies identified export potential worth RM4.8 billion (US$1.1 billion), particularly in high-value sectors such as automotive, chemicals, oleochemicals and renewable energy,” MITI said in a statement.

Egyptian companies also expressed interest in investment opportunities in Malaysia, particularly in medical devices and pharmaceuticals, MITI added.

The official visit took place from Nov 10-12, 2024.

In a bilateral meeting during the visit, MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Egypt’s Minister of Investment and International Trade Hassan El Khatib agreed to reactivate the Malaysia-Egypt Joint Trade and Investment Committee (JTIC).

Malaysia will host the second JTIC Meeting in early 2025, focusing on collaboration in the semiconductor sector, renewable energy, the halal industry and digital transformation.

The two ministers further agreed that Malaysia’s Investment Development Board (MIDA) and Egypt’s General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) should sign a memorandum of understanding to enhance bilateral investment relations.

To support Malaysian exporters’ access to North African and Arab markets, MITI noted that Malaysia’s trade office in Cairo, managed by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), was upgraded in January 2024, offering improved market access and export support services.

Meanwhile, national carmaker Proton has expanded into the Egyptian market with a local assembly plant.

Assembly activities began with the first delivery of Proton’s completely knocked down (CKD) vehicles in September 2024, and sales are expected to start in January 2025, with a target of 16,000 units for the period 2024–2026, MITI reported.

Bilateral trade between Malaysia and Egypt from January to September 2024 rose 21.4% year-on-year to RM3.0 billion (US$648 million), compared to RM2.4 billion (US$545.5 million) in the same period last year.

Egypt was Malaysia’s fifth-largest trading partner in Africa in 2023.

Tengku Zafrul said MITI is confident this bilateral relationship will continue to grow, positively impacting the economy and supporting the objectives of the New Malaysian Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) by 2030.

“MITI and its agencies will take prompt follow-up action to ensure that all agreed initiatives are implemented efficiently,” he added.




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Volkswagen Proposes 10% Wage Cut to Union Amid Financial Struggles

Volkswagen Group is seeking significant cost reductions as it faces declining demand, rising expenses, and mounting competition. The automaker has proposed a 10 per cent wage reduction for its union employees after IG Metall, the union representing Volkswagen’s workforce, requested a seven per cent raise. This wage cut comes as part of broader measures Volkswagen is considering to address financial difficulties, which include restructuring bonuses and possibly eliminating anniversary and monthly bonuses.

Despite these proposed changes, Volkswagen’s CEO Thomas Schafer has not ruled out more drastic options, such as plant closures, if cost-cutting goals are not met through negotiations. “Successful operations are a prerequisite for job security,” said Arne Meiswinkel, VW’s lead negotiator, highlighting the necessity for lower labour costs to stabilise the company.

Volkswagen reported a steep 42 per cent drop in third-quarter operating profits, and its core brand posted only a two per cent operating margin through September. According to CFO and COO Arno Antlitz, this underscores the need for “significant cost reductions and efficiency gains” to sustain the company’s operations.

Rumours of potential plant closures in Germany have circulated as the company confronts inefficiencies across several domestic sites. Schafer remarked that the issues cannot be resolved by “simple cost-cutting measures,” indicating deeper structural challenges within the automaker’s German manufacturing operations.

Volkswagen and IG Metall will resume negotiations on November 21.




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Hyundai Rotem Unveils Hydrogen-Powered K3 Battle Tank for South Korea’s Next-Generation Military

Hyundai Rotem, a subsidiary of South Korea’s Hyundai Group, has announced a pioneering development for the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army: a hydrogen-powered K3 main battle tank. Set to be among the most advanced military vehicles in the world, the K3 aims to redefine future warfare by leveraging eco-friendly fuel cells, autonomous technologies, and advanced firepower.

Hyundai Rotem’s K3 project is a collaborative effort with South Korea’s Agency for Defence Development and other national research institutions, with production tentatively scheduled to begin by 2040. The shift to hydrogen marks a historic step in South Korea’s commitment to reduce reliance on traditional combustion engines in defence equipment. The K3’s hydrogen fuel cell will eventually replace the diesel engines of the ROK’s K-series tanks, beginning with hybrid prototypes that combine hydrogen and diesel power.

In an online statement, Hyundai Rotem described the K3 as “a next-generation main battle tank that surpasses all capabilities of today’s MBTs (main battle tanks), optimised for evolving battlefield demands.” Key enhancements to the K3 include autonomous driving, AI-based fire control, and a 130-mm smoothbore main gun for increased preemptive strike capabilities. Additionally, the tank will feature improved stealth capabilities, a reduced heat signature, and the deployment of slave drones to enhance reconnaissance and support combat operations.

Fuel cell technology offers multiple advantages, including quieter operation, faster acceleration, superior fuel efficiency, and reduced maintenance due to fewer moving parts. With minimal heat output and sound, the tank achieves heightened stealth, making it less detectable in combat scenarios. Mobility is also improved, allowing the K3 to maneuver through steep and rugged terrains more effectively.

Designed to operate with a streamlined crew of three—a driver, commander, and gunner—the crew will be secured within a reinforced armoured capsule at the front of the tank. This layout ensures enhanced protection and operational efficiency.

The hydrogen-powered K3 demonstrates South Korea’s commitment to integrating sustainable, high-performance technologies into its military arsenal, setting a benchmark for modern warfare with cleaner and more capable military assets.




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Subaru unveils special “Kuala Lumpur edition” livery

TC SUBARU SDN. BHD., the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, has announced its participation in this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur, to be held at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from 8 to 10 November 2024. In an event at APW Bangsar, Subaru’s dealers, partners, media, and fans were treated to an exclusive preview of the “Kuala Lumpur Edition” Subaru BRZ and Subaru WRX, featuring a special livery by Motorsport Playground and a limited-edition streetwear line by Pestle & Mortar Clothing (PMC).

Inspired by a cultural fusion of Japanese engineering and Malaysian heritage, the livery created by Motorsport Playground brings an artistic twist to the Subaru BRZ and WRX. The design integrates Malaysia’s iconic Songket patterns with intricate geometric shapes and rich symbolism, transforming these high-performance vehicles into vibrant symbols of tradition and modernity. The livery also features the Malaysian national flower, Bunga Raya, in place of the usual Sakura motifs, infusing the design with local pride.

The collaborative project extends beyond the vehicles, with PMC unveiling an exclusive streetwear collection that mirrors this cultural blend. Each piece in the line embodies the precision of Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary Malaysian design, offering a unique style that resonates with both motorsport fans and fashion enthusiasts.

In a further showcase of performance, Subaru took on a thrilling time attack challenge at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. The Subaru BRZ and WRX, under the expert preparation of TD Racing, completed the circuit with impressive times: the Subaru BRZ with manual transmission finished in 02:42:211, while the WRX with CVT clocked in at 02:43:472, driven by professional racer Freddie Ang.

Subaru’s presence at the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur will celebrate innovation, performance, and cultural fusion. The “Kuala Lumpur Edition” vehicles and PMC’s streetwear collection will be available for sale from 8 to 10 November 2024 at MITEC, offering fans a chance to own a piece of this unique collaboration.




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Proton gears up for Sepang 1000km with new S70 R3

PROTON has unveiled its new S70 R3 race car for the upcoming 2024 Sepang 1000KM (S1K) endurance race, hosted at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit. This addition to Proton’s racing portfolio will compete with two cars, each driven by a pair of seasoned and promising drivers.

Driver Line-up

Car #81: Piloted by Syafiq Ali, a three-time S1K winner, and Fahrizal Hasan, known for his multiple victories in the Sepang 12 Hours endurance race.

Car #82: Driven by two emerging talents, Ariff Azmi, an 18-year-old karting and touring car champion, and Alister Yoong, a 21-year-old Formula 4 racer and son of former F1 driver Alex Yoong.

Spotlight on Alister Yoong

Alister Yoong brings an impressive racing background to Proton’s team:

– Winner of the 2022 Indian Racing League and current championship leader in 2024.

– Notched up four wins in the Italian Sports Prototype Championship (CISP) and two in the French Sports Prototype Championship.

– Head coach at Axle Academy, founded by his father, where he trains up-and-coming racers.

The Race Car: Proton S70 R3

The S70 R3 is equipped with a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated S4PH engine, engineered according to Malaysian Touring Car (MTC) regulations. The team has hinted at a potential expansion next year, considering entry into the Malaysian Championship Series’ SP2 class. This setup and driver mix signal a strong bid from Proton for the 2024 S1K endurance race.




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Jaguar ends new car sales in the UK ahead of electric-only future

JAGUAR LAND ROVER’S (JLR) ambitious “Reimagine” strategy, announced nearly four years ago, is fast approaching a major milestone: transforming Jaguar into an all-electric luxury brand by 2025. While the company has not yet unveiled any new electric models, the transition away from combustion engines is in full swing. As of this November, Jaguar has officially stopped selling new cars with conventional powertrains in the UK.

In a recent statement, JLR confirmed the halt: “From November 2024, new Jaguar sales will come to an end. We have now ceased allocation of our current generation of Jaguar vehicles.” This decision means that models like the E-Pace, XE, XF, and F-Type—already phased out—are now joined by the F-Pace SUV, the final model of Jaguar’s internal combustion era in the UK.

While the F-Pace and other models are still available in some markets abroad, their production days are numbered. British customers, however, can still acquire certified pre-owned Jaguars. Notably, the F-Pace was Jaguar’s best-selling model in 2023, with 21,943 units sold globally—though this figure underscores the brand’s recent struggles in today’s competitive SUV market.

Looking ahead, Jaguar’s transformation will see it target an entirely new echelon of luxury. Instead of competing with BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, the brand is positioning itself against ultra-luxury names like Bentley and Aston Martin. The first model of Jaguar’s electric lineup will be a high-performance saloon, aimed at rivaling the Porsche Taycan, followed by an SUV set to compete with the Bentley Bentayga in 2026. Both models will be built on the Jaguar Electrified Architecture, with a flagship sedan expected later in the decade.

Meanwhile, Jaguar plans to debut a concept vehicle in the United States by year-end. This ultra-luxurious four-door grand tourer will lay the groundwork for a production model starting at over £100,000 (RM565,858). According to Jaguar’s Managing Director, Rawdon Glover, the transition to an electric-only brand has been “hugely frustrating,” yet the focus remains on moving into the ultra-luxury market with fewer, more profitable sales.

With the first new electric Jaguar not set to launch until 2026, the UK will see an unusual absence of new Jaguar vehicles over the coming year.




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Goodyear becomes official tyre sponsor for Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur 2024

GOODYEAR is proud to be the official tyre sponsor of the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur 2024, happening from 8 – 10 November 2024 at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur. Known as the world’s premier customised car show, this event promises to showcase the latest in automotive technology, design, and more, drawing car enthusiasts from across the region.

Event Details

Date: 8 – 10 November 2024

Time: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Venue: MITEC, Kuala Lumpur

At the Goodyear booth, attendees can explore the latest in high-performance tyre technology and see how Goodyear is driving innovation in tyre performance and quality. This event offers automotive fans the perfect chance to engage with Goodyear and witness the exceptional standards that Goodyear tyres bring to every journey.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to connect with industry leaders and fellow car enthusiasts!




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Hyundai acknowledges touchscreen woes, brings back physical controls

HYUNDAI’S recent acknowledgement of the challenges with touchscreens in vehicles highlights a growing trend that some are calling the “Tesla Effect.” Following in Tesla’s footsteps, many automakers have phased out traditional physical controls for digital interfaces on touchscreens, aiming to create sleek, tech-centric cabins. However, Hyundai has found that American buyers aren’t entirely on board with the touchscreen-only setup.

According to HDNA Vice President Ha Hak-soo, Hyundai’s experience with touchscreen-based controls revealed that drivers often feel frustrated when trying to quickly adjust settings on the go, especially when physical dials or buttons could have made adjustments more straightforward. Hyundai’s internal testing with focus groups found that drivers found it stressful to control certain functions on a touchscreen when needing immediate responsiveness.

Touchscreens undoubtedly allow designers more flexibility to achieve minimalist interiors and offer a greater range of functions than physical controls alone. But when it comes to real-world driving, bumping along a rough road can make it challenging to find and tap digital controls accurately. A simple adjustment that could once be handled by feel now demands more focus, taking the driver’s attention off the road.

In response, Hyundai has started reintroducing physical controls on some models, including the facelifted Ioniq 5. While Hyundai’s North American team believes driver attitudes might shift once advanced driver-assistance systems become more common, allowing drivers to focus less on the road, for now, it seems Hyundai is listening to the call for a balance between digital and physical controls.




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Proton expands global presence with new CKD plant in Egypt

MALAYSIAN carmaker Proton has taken a significant step toward international expansion with the inauguration of a new completely knocked-down (CKD) plant to assemble the Proton Saga in Cairo, Egypt. The ceremony was officiated by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Bin Ibrahim, Malaysia’s Prime Minister, during his official visit to the country.

Prominent figures present at the event included H.E. Lieutenant General Kamel Al-Wazir, Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, and YB Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hasan, Malaysia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. Egyptian and Malaysian officials, including H.E. Mr Ragai Tawfik Said Nasr, Ambassador of Egypt to Malaysia, also participated alongside business leaders from both nations.

Strategic Investment in Al Oula Industrial Park

The new CKD facility is located in the Al Oula Industrial Park, Giza, and is operated by Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Automotive Factories (ESAF)—a joint venture between Ezz Elarab and Elsewedy Capital Holding. The plant represents an investment of USD35 million and has a production capacity of 20,000 units per shift. Once fully operational, it is expected to employ up to 400 people.

Proton was represented at the inauguration by Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Chairman, and Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO. From ESAF, Hisham Ezz Elarab, Chairman, and Ahmed Elsewedy, Board Member, attended the event.

A Milestone in Bilateral Cooperation

During his speech, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted Proton as a source of national pride and emphasised the importance of partnerships like ESAF in fostering industrial advancement. He urged Proton to leverage local facilities to strengthen its operations in the region.

The factory inauguration comes shortly after the first shipment of CKD packs was sent to Egypt on 9 September 2024. The production of left-hand drive Proton Saga models is set to begin in December 2024, with an initial production target of 1,400 units for 2024. This is projected to increase to 5,000 units in 2025, with a total of 16,000 CKD packs expected to be exported by the end of 2026.

Expanding Beyond Egypt

The vehicles assembled in Egypt will not only cater to the domestic market but also be exported to Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa and Middle Eastern markets. These efforts are part of Proton’s strategy to strengthen its presence in emerging markets where car ownership is on the rise.

The total value of exports from this initiative is estimated at RM570 million, excluding an additional RM20 million projected from parts exports.

Unlocking Global Potential

Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar remarked that Proton, as Malaysia’s leading vehicle exporter, currently sees exports accounting for 3% of total sales volume. However, the company aims to unlock untapped potential in international markets.

“Egypt is central to our plans for the region. Moving forward, we will focus on partnerships like ESAF to maximize the sales potential for Proton vehicles in regions where car ownership is still growing,” he said.

Future Growth Prospects

The establishment of the Cairo CKD facility marks a pivotal moment in Proton’s international expansion. With plans to explore broader markets and collaborate with strategic partners, the company is poised to enhance Malaysia’s automotive footprint on the global stage.




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Comment on How to write totally misleading headlines for social media by Karen Blakeman

Can't really say, Justin, without knowing how the Independent manages its content and social media presence. I have had two very interesting private conversations with a web content manager and a PR/social media consultant neither of whom, I hasten to add, work for The Independent. Both said that pressure is put on them to get as many "shares" and click throughs as possible. One confirmed that some of their clients clearly state in the commissioning briefs that titles are changed for social media to increase the click rate and that their performance is assessed and payments adjusted accordingly.




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Comment on How to write totally misleading headlines for social media by Karen Blakeman

I don't think we can blame Facebook for the misuse of the tags. They provide the technology and alternative social media titles usually do describe at least part of the original content, and the target audience maybe different compared with that for a website audience. In this case it has to be the Independent that is ultimately responsible, even if the title was written by a freelancer or contractor who, I presume, are paid by the Independent. It is clearly in the source code of the page on the Independent website, therefore they are responsible for it.




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Comment on New Creative Commons image search – back to the drawing board I’m afraid by Neue CC-Bildersuche (Beta) | digithek blog

[…] Update vom 10.2.2017, Karen Blakeman’s Blog: New Creative Commons image search – back to the drawing board I’m afraid […]




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Comment on Google makes it harder to change location for country specific research by David Pearson

How does this compare to using the "site:No" syntax to force Google to only return result from .No domains. https://www.google.co.uk/search?num=100&ei=oLL1WeX8NYPtaKS9k4AP&btnG=Search&q=site%3Ano+brexit




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Comment on Google makes it harder to change location for country specific research by Karen Blakeman

Yes, David, I really should have included that in the possible strategies. Thanks for reminding me. It works well for this particular example (Norway) and gives good but slightly different results and will, of course, miss Norwegian sites that are registered as .com or other international domains. The amount of overlap (or lack of it) will vary depending on the country.




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Comment on Google makes it harder to change location for country specific research by Eric Sieverts

Would adding the parameter &gl=no to the result URL, still do the job?




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Comment on Google makes it harder to change location for country specific research by Karen Blakeman

Doesn't work here, Eric :-(




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Comment on Google makes it harder to change location for country specific research by Google gjør det vanskeligere for oss! | Bærum bibliotek

[…] Se også Karen Blakeman’s Bloginnlegg. […]




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Comment on SmugMug buys Flickr – should we stay or should we go? by Arthur Weiss

A couple of years ago (I think just after the initial acquisition and when Flickr was being expanded) they offered an "automatic uploader" that scoured your computer and uploaded all images automatically. This sounded great - until I realised you had no control on what was uploaded. My Flickr account has so much junk in it that it would be really hard to clear out - as I have my photos PLUS images I've purchased PLUS images I've downloaded and even scans and stuff like that which I'd never wanted uploaded. These aren't even in albums - so I can't delete them except one-by-one. Fortunately I have my privacy settings set - but not everybody did, and Flickr is a great source for competitive intelligence as a result. Some of the stuff you can find is in the category of "how stupid can you get" (and is a real lesson in the importance of privacy settings). I found a table for a major manufacturer giving volume sales per month 2016 vs. volume sales per month 2015 and YTD value sales. When I was doing the work it was actually current data - invaluable to my client as it was the sort of stuff you cannot ever expect to find but proves there is such as thing as serendipity.




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Comment on SmugMug buys Flickr – should we stay or should we go? by Karen Blakeman

I do recall some colleagues and friends saying that one of the mobile apps that did exactly that by default. Thankfully I have never used any of automatic uploaders. All photos are added manually one by one. Not exactly high tech but a lot safer.




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Maya Bank issues 50,000 credit cards in 3 months

Digital lender Maya Bank, in partnership with Landers Superstore, has issued over 50,000 credit cards in just three months, making it one of the fastest growing credit cards in the country.




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Banks’ earnings up 6.4% to P290 billion in 9 months

Earnings of Philippine banks rose by 6.4 percent to P290 billion from January to September compared to last year’s P273 billion, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.




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BSP finalizing framework for clearing switch operations

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is finalizing a regulatory framework to ensure the efficiency of clearing switch operations within the national payment system, particularly the automated clearing houses under the National Retail Payment System.




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The Keepers to acquire Booze On-Line

The Keepers is planning to acquire 100% of the outstanding shares of Booze On-Line Inc (BOLI).




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No such thing as illegitimate workers

The concept of a legitimate livelihood deserves reexamination, especially when it comes to the 17 million informal workers who make up nearly a quarter of our national workforce




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Philippines, Australia to join key military drills for the first time in 2025

Philippine troops will join Australia's largest military exercise for the first time next year, while the Australian Defense Force will make their debut in Philippine-led war games, both countries' defense chiefs announced Wednesday, November 13.




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Lovi Poe launches 1st makeup collection

Actress Lovi Poe launched her debut makeup collection under local cosmetics line Ready Set Glow.




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Rock 'n' Roll Series Manila back for 3rd year

The ASICS Rock 'n' Roll Running Series Manila, presented by AIA Vitality, returns on November 23-24 for its third year, bigger and bolder than ever.




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Antetokounmpo to Nets for Simmons, plethora of picks? Expert brings up possibility

Australian NBA star Ben Simmons’ expiring salary was floated by veteran sports journalist Bill Simmons of The Ringer as one of the trade chips for the Brooklyn Nets in the potential Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes.




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Ex-UP coach Ricky Dandan, 61

Former University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons head coach Ricky Dandan has passed away. He was 61.




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Mapait na asukal (Ika-29 Labas)




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Google link command gone – never much good anyway!

Search Engine Roundtable reports today that Google is advising against using the link operator in search. It seems that there have been complaints on Twitter and elsewhere that it is returning some odd results. I have never been a fan of the command; it only ever returned a small sample of pages that link to … Continue reading Google link command gone – never much good anyway!




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New Creative Commons image search – back to the drawing board I’m afraid

Locating images that can be re-used, modified and incorporated into commercial or non-commercial projects is always a hot topic on my search workshops.  As soon as we start looking at tools that identify Creative Commons and public domain images the delegates start scribbling. Yes, Google and Bing both have tools that allow you to specify … Continue reading New Creative Commons image search – back to the drawing board I’m afraid




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Another example of Google’s Knowledge Graph getting it wrong

Voting in the UK election has finished and the results are in, but the dust has most definitely not settled. It looks as we in the UK are in for interesting times ahead. It would help those of us researching the various political parties and policies if Google could at least get the basics right, … Continue reading Another example of Google’s Knowledge Graph getting it wrong




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Google makes it harder to change location for country specific research

Google has made a major change to search and it does not bode well. Results are now based on your current location. So what’s new?  Google has always looked at your location, even down to city/town level, and changed the results accordingly. That is fine if you are travelling and want to find the nearest … Continue reading Google makes it harder to change location for country specific research




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SmugMug buys Flickr – should we stay or should we go?

So the wait is over. When it was announced that Verizon was to buy Yahoo! there was concern as to what was going to happen to Flickr. Yahoo! never did much in terms of developing Flickr and what it did do was rubbish. Trying to add the location of your photo is an interesting experience … Continue reading SmugMug buys Flickr – should we stay or should we go?




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Random Photo: Thank You, ChatGPT!

Random Photo: Thank You, ChatGPT!




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UnHackMe 16.67.2024.1113 Beta / 16.60.2024.1023

UnHackMe allows you to detect and remove a new generation of Trojan programs - invisible Trojans and will be a very useful security utility for your operating system. [License: Shareware $39.90+ | Requires: 11|10|8|7 | Size: 44 MB ]




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Blank And Secure 7.89

Portable tool to securely delete data. Securely deleting files is required to block the recovering of deleted data. Secure deletion is possible with this program, because Blank And Secure overwrites t... [License: Freeware | Requires: 11|10|8|7 | Size: 158 KB ]




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Fake News Debunker for Chrome 0.83

Fake News Debunker for Chrome is a Social Media tool that verifies videos and images for anyone who wants to be more efficient in fact-checking and debunking things on social networks. [License: Freeware | Requires: 11|10|8|7|Linux|macOS | Size: 4 MB ]




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HP ZBook Studio 16 G11 Review and more @ NT Compatible

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Intel Arc 140V iGPU Benchmarks vs Radeon 890M and more @ NT Compatible

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Biostar X870E Valkyrie Motherboard Review and more @ NT Compatible

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Intel Core Ultra 9 285K cooling testing and more @ NT Compatible

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ASUS Vivobook S15 (Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite) Laptop Review and more @ NT Compatible

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ASRock Phantom Gaming X870E NOVA WiFi Review and more @ NT Compatible

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Sharkoon AK5G RGB Review and more (10 Reviews) @ NT Compatible

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Alphacool Apex Pro Skeleton Carbon Case Featured Build and more @ NT Compatible

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Corel Kicks Off Black Friday Early with Savings of Up to $125 on Select Products

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