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School Fee hike request, rejected by the Education Minister

Education Minister Hamed Al-Azmi issued a ministerial resolution, extending the validity of resolution number 10/2018 which was issued last year deferring private school tuition fee hikes. As per that, demands made by private school owners to increase their schools’ fees rejected, and they were warned that legal actions would be taken against them in case of any violations. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
New Parking Fee announced for Terminal 4

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Director Yousef Al-Fauzan announced new parking fees for Terminal 4 parking lot, i.e, the first hour would cost 500 fils, 500 fils for the second hour and KD 1 per hour or part of an hour thereafter in the short-term parking area. He said KD 2 would be collected daily in the long-term parking area. In case of losing the parking ticket or parking without obtaining one, the motorist will pay a fine of KD 10 plus the parking fees. And the vehicles parked in no-parking zones will be towed and impounded. Courtesy: Kuwait News
Wafra Road Mina Abdullah extension with King Fahad road to open on February 8th

The General Department of Relations & Security Media stated that the General Directorate of Traffic, in coordination with the General Authority for Roads Transport, will open a crossing on Wafra Road, Mina Abdullah (306) with the King Fahd Road, on Friday 8/2/2019, where the temporary iron bridge will be removed,. The Department advises the motorists to exercise caution while using the Wafra road, monitor the speed limits, follow traffic sign and abide the instructions of the traffic men. Courtesy: Al Watan News
Rental restrictions on expat bachelors

Municipality sources told Kuwait Times that the ‘bachelors’ committee’ will take up a proposal to ban houses renting to expats in private residential areas. As per the proposal, the expats will not be allowed to reside among Kuwaiti families unless they provide marriage contracts endorsed by Kuwaiti embassies abroad or concerned local authorities provide photocopies of their wives’ civil IDs sign contracts with the owners with separate civil numbers for the rented units and then register the contracts with area mayors. The sources added that the municipality had also suggested earlier not to renew the civil IDs of single expats residing in these areas. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Kuwait national flag to enter the Guinness Record

Kuwait has eagerly taken the challenge to claim a place in the Guinness Book of World Records through the world’s longest national flag, which comes within the framework of Kuwait’s national celebrations. Mubarak Al-Kabeer Educational Directorate of the Ministry of Education is adapting to enter the Guinness Book of World Records by formulating a celebration of carrying the longest national flag with a length of 2,019 meters, with participation of more than 4,000 students and teachers on Sunday February 10. The ceremony will be held under the auspices of Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education Dr Hamid Al-Azmi, with the presence of Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, Civil Defense and international arbitrators. As part of preparations for this national occasion, Chairman of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Educational Directorate Mansour Al-Dehani has constituted a number of committees to work on arranging and preparing for the ceremony, which will witness the attendance of parents of students and many citizens and residents. This celebration coincides with Kuwait’s 58th Independence Day, 28th Liberation Day and the 13th anniversary of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s assumption of power. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
How to register and apply for Health Insurance through online

Visit https://www.moh.gov.kw/en Click on E-health services and select Health Insurance, you will get the page like below Being a new user, you have to create an account by clicking the “Create an account” link, which will lead to page like below, where you have to enter all the details, where email id alone being an optional, at the bottom is the Verify OTP, which you can generate by clicking “Generate OTP” Button. But the problem is, you have to add your first name in Arabic. (might be rectified in future as either register name in one language) Once you get the OTP to your mobile no., Type in the Verify OTP field and click “Verify OTP” You will receive a pop up message saying as your registration is successful and you will receive a message to your mobile no with your User Id as your Civil ID and the password will given by them. You can go back to login page by clicking the “Return to login” option in the registration form Once you login you will get a page as below, where first you have to have to select Category as personal or group insurance, and the type of […]
Samsung will soon end the plastic packaging for its products

Samsung, one among the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer is gradually ending the plastic packaging, which is used to wrap their brand devices and appliances. Beginning in the first half of this year, Samsung phones, tablets and wearable devices will be packed in paper, pulp molds and bio-based or recycled plastics, the company told CNN. It will also alter the design of its phone charger, replacing the glossy exterior with a matte finish and stopping plastic protection films. Samsung had sold about 291 million smartphones last year, according to data from market research firm IDC. It also sold millions of other consumer products. The plastic bags used to protect the surface of Samsung’s large home appliances — washing machines, refrigerators, TVs and air conditioners — will be switched to bags made of recycled materials and bioplastics. This idea, which will be implemented in an experimental phase to several thousand consumers in New York and Paris this May, was announced last week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Courtesy: CNN
Expats students studying abroad requires now a certificate

The general directorate for residency affairs took a step to counter manipulations, instructed all its sub-departments not to issue ‘absence permits’ for expat students studying overseas unless they provide – ‘to whom it may concern’ certificates from their universities after endorsing it from Kuwaiti embassies in the country where they study. Security sources explained that expat students studying abroad are usually given a three-month absence permit after staying abroad for six months in order to maintain the validity of their residency visas, provided they include endorsed certificates from their universities. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Work permit fee to be increased for the private sector employees

As per the information obtained by Kuwait Times from the sources, The Public Authority for Manpower is about to implement a decision to raise the transfer, renewal and issuance fees for work permits in the private sector. Renewal fee for work permits will increase from KD 10 to KD 20 for one year, while fees for work permit issuance for the first time will be KD 70 instead of KD 60. First-time work permit transfer fee will be KD 100, KD 200 for the second time, KD 300 for the third time and KD 400 for the fourth and so on. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Small and Medium sized Business can now obtain license through online

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced it will start today providing licenses for new companies, stores and commercial projects through the online facility. The process will allow small and medium enterprises to obtain the license within a short time period and will also lessen the count of clients in the ministry centers, said the ministry. The online request form only requires the leasing contract and leasing receipt without any other documents. The new license is equipped with a barcode that provides the ministry’s inspectors with the company’s information and is linked directly to the ministry’s database. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Expats with the Salary of KD 500 can also now sponsor their family for visit visa

The interior ministry’s residency affairs directorate announced new regulations for issuing various types of visit visas; it directed various department managers to set a minimum salary of KD 500 for sponsors applying for visit visas for their parents or in-laws. The instructions also authorized various immigration managers to set the visit period for parents and in-laws at 30 days for family visit visas and 90 days for tourist visit visas according to the sponsors’ jobs, circumstances and the reason for the visit. The new instructions limits siblings’ visit visas to 30 days and still continues in the suspension of all visit visa extensions. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
18 Vehicles with Speed Detecting Cameras and P2P System on roads from Jan 20

Interior Ministry’s Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic and Operations Affairs Major Gen. Jamal Al-Sayegh launched 18 vehicles fitted with mobile speed cameras on main and side roads. He also launched a point-to-point (P2P) system along Abdaly Road to spot speed limit violations, which will begin its operation from Sunday, Jan 20. Operations Director at the Traffic Department Col Yousuf Al-Khaddah explained about the mobile speed detecting camera vehicles and how it monitors the speed of the vehicles while moving or remaining motionless, and how it captures the license plate numbers. He also explained the P2P system and how it checks and videotape all inbound and outbound vehicles. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Manpower Authority is on a plan to stop transfering Dependent visa(No.22) to Work visa(18)

Well-informed sources from the manpower authority told Kuwait Times that the authority is about to issue a resolution suspending the transfer of dependent (article 22) visas to article 18 visas to work for the private sector. The decision was made to prevent expats from changing their residency status. The motive is also to limit the spread of marginal labor, including expats who manage to transfer their visa and get work permits and yet work in other business, than those they transfer to, starting their own unlicensed businesses or even home delivery services. The sources noted that the law currently in effect allows the transfer of a spouse’s visa, provided the sponsor approves it and is present at the labor department in person to sign an official waiver and transfer form. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
72 expats, to be laid off from the Kuwait Municipality – CSC

Kuwait Municipality already suffers from the shortage of expats employees, namely engineers, but still the Civil Service Commission (CSC) insists on imposing the replacement policy on those jobs for the fiscal year 2019-2020, as it recently requested terminating the contracts of 28 out of 179 engineers, Al-Qabas reported. A letter was sent by the CSC pointing out that 72 out of 536 expat employees working in various departments have to be laid off, adding that a study had been made in collaboration with the finance ministry in this regard. Notably, the total workforce of Municipality is 5,522 – 4,986 citizens and 536 non-Kuwaitis. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Ministry of Education to replace 1000 expats by citizens

The Ministry of Education’s administrative sector is currently finalizing lists of 1,000 expat employees who will be replaced by the citizens during the current academic year 2018-2019, as per the information received. The sources explained that the employees due to be terminated by the end of June 2019 include 300 teachers, 100 social workers and 600 service staff (office boys). The sources added the education sector has targeted the 300 teachers according to the subjects they teach, due to the availability of Kuwaiti teachers of the same subjects to replace them. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Government is on a move to ban renewal of Visa and Work permits of Marginal Laborers

The sources from Interior Ministry said the measures had been already studied and approved by the Cabinet with the aim of regulating the presence of marginal laborers and assessing the actual needs of the local labor market. They said expected government decisions includes banning the renewal of marginal laborers’ work permits and residency visas. Moreover, strict instructions will be given to accurately analyse the essential labor count with more focus on qualified workers, the sources added, noting that the government believes that the manpower authority and interior ministry have so far failed to stop visa trafficking, which called for forming a special team to study various legislation to amend them and stop manipulations by traffickers. “Reducing the number of expats in Kuwait is not the target – the government only aims to regulate their presence by focusing on allowing in only qualified and skilled workers,” the sources underlined, noting that once the new measures are in effect, Kuwait will be able to get rid of a million marginal laborers within seven years. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Residency renewal impossible for “Managers” without University Degree

An official source at the Manpower authority said a circular was issued, which allows the residency renewal for those with the profession of “Manager” and without university degree, who has began working in Manager position before Jan 1,2011 and it is recorded in the work permit, which will be renewed automatically Whereas for those who joined after Jan 1,2011, there will be no renewals unless he/she has university degree. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Kuwait Airways inaugurated the Bayan Hall of Terminal 4

Kuwait Airways Company (KAC) inaugurated the Bayan Hall for First and Business Class passengers in the passenger terminal (T4) in the presence of Kuwait Airways General Manager Sheikh Salman Al-Hamoud. Sheikh Salman Al-Hamoud said in a statement that the company is keen to develop the Kuwait International Airport in line with the latest developments and reputation of Kuwait by implementation of the directives of His Highness the Amir and Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Sheikh Al-Hamoud expressed his thanks to Kuwait Airways and all its officials for the excellent services and the great shift in these services provided to the passengers. He praised the efforts of all civil aviation employees and the cooperation of other bodies, especially the Ministry of the Interior and the General Administration of Customs. Kuwait Airways Chairman, Yousef Al Jassim, said that the opening of the new hall is another achievement in addition to the achievements of the company in its efforts to develop its various services. He praised the efforts exerted by the employees of Kuwait Airways and the company for executing the hall with high efficiency within a period of 70 days. He added that the company’s continued efforts to develop its services and […]
The Trial of 79 helpless Indian nurses came to an end

The trial of 79 Indian nurses was living helpless in Kuwait for the past two years without work or iqamas ended, after the government approved their residence and completed the formalities for employment at health ministry hospitals. The nurses sounded optimistic that they will be able to move on, putting two years of traumatic experiences behind them. “Out of 79 nurses, 70 will be joining various health ministry hospitals by next week. The employment of the others is in various stages of processing,” said an Indian embassy official. The distressed nurses raised the issue with Indian Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj during her visit to Kuwait in October. The minister discussed the matter with the top authorities in Kuwait including Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah. The health ministry signed a contract with the 80 nurses in 2015, who reached Kuwait in early 2016. Although, they were assigned to various hospitals, the Civil Service Commission cancelled their appointments over alleged financial irregularities in recruitment. Since then, 79 nurses remained virtually in limbo without jobs or residencies, while one managed to leave the country. “We took the matter very seriously and pursued it relentlessly to find an early solution to […]
Holiday decorations at White House is now for display

At the White House, First lady Melania Trump has designed a colorfully patriotic theme — dubbed “American treasures” — for the holiday decorations now on display, showcasing America’s heritage. During December, the White House will host more than 100 open houses, many receptions, and more than 30,000 visitors on public tours. In the East Wing, guests will see the Gold Star Family tree, decorated by Gold Star military families to honor the sacrifices of U.S. troops. Visitors are invited to write messages to their loved ones stationed abroad, using digital tablets. The East Room pays tribute to the diversity and ingenuity of American architecture and design, with four custom mantelpieces depicting the skylines of New York City, St. Louis, Chicago and San Francisco. Vivid red topiary trees line the East Colonnade, their color symbolizing valor and patriotism. The gingerbread house. The 2018 version replicates the full expanse of the National Mall: the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument and the White House itself. The official White House Christmas tree, nestled in the Blue Room, is dressed in blue velvet ribbon embroidered in gold with the names of each U.S. state and territory. “This is a […]
Guarantor must for expats undergoing treatment at public hospitals

The health ministry has introduced a system to guarantee, collection of fees, imposed on expatriates when they are admitted to public hospitals either for surgeries or receiving expensive treatment, where the guarantor has to sign a form to pay the fees in case the patient fails to do. The form is a guarantee and undertaking by the guarantor to pay for the services presented to the non-Kuwaiti patient. The form includes the guarantor’s and patient’s information, as well as the amount payable. In case of non-payment, the health ministry has the right to take legal action against the guarantor without any warning. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Minimum 3 years to transfer first work visa, rule is on consideration

The manpower authority is on a plan to issue a decision, banning visa transfers from one to another employer for the expats hired from outside to work in the private sector before three years from the issuance of the first work permit have expired. Informed sources added that this rule will greatly help fight visa trafficking. The sources stressed that the current regulations allows visa transfers after one year from entry or six months plus a KD 300 fee will be followed, until the new decision is finalized, adding that a new package of resolutions will be announced soon to regulate the local labor market and limit marginal labor. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Corruption in Indian Nurses recruitment referred for legal investigations

Health Minister Sheikh Dr Basel Al-Sabah has referred alleged violations and corruption in the appointment of Indian nurses in the ministry to the public prosecution for legal investigations, a lawmaker said. MP Rakan Al-Nasef tweeted that he had sent a question to the health minister about the suspected violations involved in the appointment and the minister had told him that it has been referred to the prosecution. Nasef said the question was raised during the grilling of a former health minister. The lawmaker claimed during the grilling that hundreds of nurses were appointed in the ministry after paying large amounts of bribes to senior ministry officials and middlemen. A court trying ministers began last week procedures for the possible trial of former health minister Ali Al-Obaidi and several former top officials over the alleged violations. It was not immediately known if the Indian nurses’ case is among the cases the former officials are being investigated for. Last August, Kuwait Times highlighted the condition of 80 Indian nurses who were promised jobs in Kuwait was stuck here for more than two years due to delay in paperwork and red tape. The nurse group, with all qualifications were recruited by the health […]
Consumer Loans limit raised from 15 to 25 times the net monthly salary

Banks in Kuwait started in mid-November to implement the new Central Bank of Kuwait instructions on granting loans and personal finance operations, which raised the cap on consumer loans from 15 times the net monthly salary to 25 times to a maximum of KD 25,000 ($82,500). The new on maintained the maximum limit of the housing loan at KD 70,000 ($231,000). So the total amount that a customer can obtain from loans or Islamic financing is KD 95,000 ($313,000) instead of KD 85,000 ($280,000). The bank said in a statement published on its website that the instructions took into account changes in indicators of the gross domestic economy (2004-2017). The past years also witnessed significant developments in global monetary policy. Most major economies abandoned their monetary easing policies after the financial crisis and began to raise interest rates on their currencies. The US Federal Reserve has raised interest rates eight times since 2015, while Kuwait’s central bank raised them only four times in order to stimulate the local economy. While raising interest rates contributes to reducing consumption and stimulating savings, it also leads to a low rate of demand for individuals and companies to borrow, which reduces the volume of […]
His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad inaugurated the Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad inaugurated the Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital this morning in the South Al-Sura area. Dr. Basel Al-Sabah, the Minister of Health, said that the hospital is considered as a world-wide medical facility with its size and diversity of specialties and equipment. It consists of 5 main towers, built with a total area of 720 thousand meters, comprising 1,168 beds, 36 operating rooms, an ambulance center, helipads and outpatient clinics. Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health Dr. Mustafa Reddah said that the primary motto of establishing Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital is to provide excellent services to Kuwait citizens with the upgraded methodology based on the latest technical means and ways of sound management.He pointed out that the MoH employees sought to provide ways to develop work in medical facilities, as the number of beds in hospitals will double to more than 16,000 beds by the next two years, in addition to the extension in the establishment of primary care centers associated with urban expansion.Discussed about the challenges of creating a sound mechanism to manage these advanced facilities to provide an integrated health service. Therefore, the Ministry of Health has developed plans through a global vision, which is […]
Online Registration procedures for Indians working overseas in the 18 countries

Advisory issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs on Nov 14, 2018 Rule is applicable From Jan 1st 2019 The registration is mandatory for all Indians heading for jobs in 18 countries for work (all the ECNR passport holders) Countries are: Afghanistan, Bahrain, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria, Thailand, the UAE and Yemen. Register on E-migrate portal – www.emigrate.gov.in (Registration is for free) The requirement is to register at least 24 hours prior and before 21 days to departure(from India) to allow sufficient time for information to be passed on to the emigration counter for verification. Below are the details to be noted: Those already working overseas are not required to register while they are overseas. However, if they come to India on vacation and are returning for work, they will need to register. This is only a one-time requirement for a given employment duration For ECR holders, If they had gone initially thru’ eMigrate, they must have gone through EC route while holding ECR passport. No registration is required for them unless they replace their passports with an ECNR category one.Their category will change to ECNR if the person […]
Compensation Authority started receiving applications from the people affected by rain

The Public Authority for Compensation (PAC) kick started this morning to receive applications from the citizens and residents at its headquarters in Shamiya, whose property has been affected by heavy rains in the country recently. Applications will be received during the business hours from 8 am to 1 pm, either electronically via the TRA website or in person by filling the form at the Authority’s premises. Courtesy: Al Anba News
Compensation Team preparing applications on receiving claims for the damages due to rain

Kuwait Finance Ministry Undersecretary Saleh Al – Sarawi told yesterday(19th Nov) a government team is formulating applications for the people demanding compensations for the damages occurred due to recent heavy rainfall and floods. Al Sarawi, who is the head of the Compensation team, told Kuwait TV, after applications prepared, the timings will be announced to receive claims, which would be at headquarters of Kuwait compensation authority in Shamiya area. The government formed a Team yesterday, chaired by Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Al-Sabeeh, tasked renovating houses damaged by rainfall, and to provide suitable housing, until completion of renovation. Courtesy: KUNA
Jahra Medical City likely to be administered by an American Group

Finance Minister Nayef Al-Hajraf, Health Minister Sheikh Dr Bassel Al-Sabah and Amiri Diwan Undersecretary Sheikh Mohammed Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah recently met six international medical groups to choose one among the six to administer the Jahra Medical City, informed sources said. The sources added that an American medical group will most likely be selected as per the achievements by the group in Abu Dhabi. The sources also noted that the estimated cost of managing the city varies between KD 100 million and KD 200 million for a period of five to 10 years. Also to be noted that the American Henry Ford Medical Group already runs a hospital in Riyadh. Notably, Jahra Medical City has a bed capacity of 1,234 in eight main buildings and the project is located over a total area of 235,000 sq m. It is expected to be completed within three years at a total cost of KD 354 million. Courtesy: Kuwait News
MoI and CSC is on move to reduce the expats count

The interior ministry has come up with numerous proposals to control the demographic imbalance. A committee was called comprising of elements from the interior ministry, ministry of social affairs and labor and the manpower authority to prevent any manipulation, said security sources. The sources explained that the core recommendation was to ban transferring the residency visas of expats terminated from government positions to work for the private sector, which is against the replacement policy and increases visa trafficking. MoI also recommended reviewing the exact requirements of expats, as it is identified, recruiting numerous marginal laborers of a certain nationality. Accordingly, MoI suggested imposing quotas per nationality, using timed contracts for government projects and hiring only those with enough experience and training. In a similar move, the Civil Service Commission recently asked the education ministry to terminate the contracts of 1,186 non-Kuwaiti employees by the end of this year. Courtesy: Kuwait News
Fake vehicle batteries in Kuwait Market, siezed 2600

Kuwait Ministry of Commerce & Industry Inspectors seized 2600 batteries as when the importers were changing labels of the country of origin with fake ones before selling them. The importer was changing the country origin label of the car and heavy vehicle batteries with the fake ones, in a warehouse in Shuwaikh Industrial area, when the authorities found it. It urged the public to call 135 if they found the batteries are fake, and it is mandatory that you must hold the invoice while claiming. Courtesy: KUNA
Thousands of Expatriates Job titles cancelled while renewal

The Public Authority of Manpower canceled thousands of expatriates’ job titles who had work permits and hold higher positions in the private sector after when they identified that they have no higher qualifications or their certificates are not documented by their country and not certified by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A government source revealed to Al-Rai that “the Authority has set a condition for renewing the work permit of those with the highest qualifications, which is to provide the original certificate of the academic qualification documented or attested by the official authorities in countries where the certificate is issued and by the relevant authorities in Kuwait, renewing it periodically. The source explained that the Commission found thousands of files without the qualifications of higher job title, which made them cancel their job titles and there were some cases having a qualification but without attestation and with no consent. Some expatriates refused to stay back in Kuwait after the modification of their job title and left the country, and some modified their job title from higher to a delegate post. The government source also said that this step will significantly contribute to the limitation of the population structure and […]
Kuwait Airport restarted its functioning

The General Administration of Civil Aviation announced that air traffic at Kuwait International Airport has returned to normal after it got suspended due to the heavy rainfall in the country. The management said in a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the navigation movement returned to normal after the relative improvement in the weather and horizontal vision at the airport. The country is experiencing an unstable weather and sporadic rainfall, while forecasts suggest that by tomorrow(16/11/18) the weather will gradually improve. Courtesy: Al Anba
Compensation for those affected by rains

His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah assured on the compensation of those affected by rains and appreciated the efforts of the concerned rescue authorities in the country to deal with current climatic conditions prevailing. HH the Prime Minister during his meeting with the state leaders in the operations room of the interior ministry in Subhan today(15/11/18) expressed thanks to the efforts deployed. During his meeting, His Highness briefed the participants about the plans and perceptions of the concerned authorities in the country to face the exceptional climatic conditions experienced by the country. Courtesy: Kuwaitnews.com
Suspension of flights “precautionary” until the weather improves – Civil Aviation

Kuwait’s General Directorate of Civil Aviation announced yesterday, the suspension of any departure of flights from Kuwait International Airport and transit flights to the airports of the Kingdom of Bahrain International, Dammam, and Dubai International. Deputy Director-General for Kuwait Airport Affairs Fahad Al-Waqayan told Kuwait News Agency(KUNA) The flights to Kuwait International Airport have been diverted due to bad weather due to the intensity of rain affecting the visibility. Al-Waqayan said airlines were advised to inform passengers of the new dates for their flights The country is currently experiencing an unstable weather and a moderate to a heavy thunderstorm in some areas Predictions of continued instability in the weather until Friday morning and is expected to improve gradually before noon. Courtesy: KUNA
“Sufficient food stuffs in Co-op society” assurance by the Ministry of Social Affairs

Deputy Assistant Undersecretary for Legal Affairs and Assistant Undersecretary for Acting Cooperation in the Ministry of Social Affairs Musallam Al-Subaie said that there is sufficient availability of foodstuffs and consumer goods in cooperative societies for long period and no need to panic about this aspect during the current conditions in the country. Al-Subaie said in a press statement that there is an uninterrupted communication between officials of the Ministry and the Federation of Cooperative Societies to work non-stop to provide all the needs of citizens and residents of cooperative societies with food materials and consumer goods Al-Subaie revealed that the Ministry of Affairs has opened the community halls development centers for those who need to resort to, in times of rain, where there is a huge quantity of food supplies in those halls. Courtesy: Al Kuwaitiyah
Southeast wind to hit Kuwait in the max of 42 kms per hour

As per the forecast, it is expected to be light to moderate in certain areas, which is lead by the southeast wind between 12 & 42 km per hour. The country is affected by Sudan’s Seasonal Low pressure, carrying a large amount of water vapor in parallel with an in-depth atmospheric low pressure in the upper atmosphere accompanied by an ultra-cold airflow. Courtesy: KUNA News
The Traffic Council proposal to ban 10-year-old cars rejected

The ministerial service committee rejected the proposal from the traffic council, which came out with the proposal to banning cars on road, which is more than 10 year old. The informed sources says that this is just one of the several proposal put forth by the traffic council in order to reduce traffic congestion. It is the Environment Public Authority, which presented the proposal as the cars in the Kuwait high temperature, will perform well for not more than seven years. However, the ministerial service committee rejected it as it create a huge financial impact on citizens and expats. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Deportation of all expats serving judicial sentence as per new rule in Amiri Amnesty

The Chairman of the Amiri Rules and Regulations Committee Counselor Mohammed Fuhaid Al-Zuabi presented the instructions on the adoption of Amiri amnesty for this year to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Lt-Gen Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah, reports Al-Anba daily. According to security sources, the rules of the Amiri amnesty has been completed and will be approved by Minister of Justice in the next few days, after which the files of the prisoners will be examined and compare it with the amnesty rules. They explained that the foremost important rule of the new amnesty is the deportation of all expatriates serving judicial sentences, irrespective of the period of their residencies or that of their family members in the country. Earlier, it was allowed to offer plea letter for the release of expatriate inmates who are residents of Kuwait for more than 20 years or whose families reside in the country. However, as per the new rules, expatriates serving judicial sentences has to be deported to their own countries. Those excluded from this rule are expatriate husbands of Kuwaiti women, expatriate sons of Kuwaiti mothers, Bedoun residents, and expatriate wives of Kuwaiti men. Also prisoners involved in State Security cases […]
Expatriates job is getting insecure, as Kuwaitization plan is on progress

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) is on the process of replacing expatriate employees with Kuwaitis in different ministries and governmental bodies as part of its ‘Kuwaitization’ plan. Speaking to the press, the commissions’ Chairman Ahmad Al-Jassar said that CSC, at present, is targeting the Kuwaitization of 3,140 jobs of the total employment in the country. He added that it includes 15 job descriptions fitting the category, with the medical field being an exception. The programme, which was approved during the fiscal year 2017/2018, aims to provide Kuwaitis with job opportunities as part of the country’s developmental plan, Jassar noted. The government has given instructions to each state department to achieve complete Kuwaitization of their respective staff by 2022, which is proven difficult for certain departments such as the education and health ministries which heavily rely on technical expatriate employees. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Establishment of Health Insurance Hospital to support 2 million expatriates

A new health insurance company (Dhaman) is going to be established which will render a complete medical service, from primary healthcare to advanced treatment at hospitals and will serve more than two million expatriates residing and working in the country after establishment, the new chairman of the National Assembly’s health committee said. MP Humoud Al-Khudhair, however, did not give any specific date when the services will be ready, but the Assembly has already approved a law for the company to offer medical services to expatriates in the country. The lawmaker said as when the company begins its services, it will highly reduce overcrowding at public hospitals and clinics all over Kuwait, and will also reduce administrative and financial expenses incurred on the government and these services will also improvise the standard of medical services in the country. Presently, a majority of expatriates receives medical services at public health centers and hospitals after paying a mandatory health insurance fee of KD 50 per person annually, in addition to reduced charges for various medical services in public clinics and hospitals. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Expat labourers recruitment for government projects will be limited

The deputy director for expatriate labor affairs Hassan Al-Khodhor(Public Authority for Manpower) said the program for recruiting expat labor needed for government projects was recently approved, which will help to put a permanent end to fake recruitments. The plan aims at developing assessments to recruit only the essential numbers of laborers per project and avoid more than the limit that leads to demographic imbalances, Khodhor said. Incorrect assessment of labor needs in the past has been blamed for reason to visa trafficking by allowing companies to use the extra slots generated for unneeded workers to issue visas which is later, ‘sold’ to laborers looking to work in Kuwait. Every private company in Kuwait has a file in the Public Authority for Manpower’s database, which stipulates the number of employees, a company can hire. Based on that number, a corresponding number of work visas is issued to serve the company’s labor. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Measures began to evict bachelors from private residential areas

Minister of Public Works and State Minister for Municipal Affairs Hossam Al-Roumi said steps had been taken against renting houses in private residential areas (government housing) for the bachelors. Responding to an inquiry filed by MP Ali Al-Deqbasi, Roumi explained that initially, a complaint has to be filed at the area’s mayor office or the concerned municipality office before transferring it to the concerned emergency team for further measures starting with warning notices, followed by Interior Ministry investigations Filing citations against landlords Contacting the Ministry of Electricity and Water to disconnect power Finally resorting to compulsory eviction. Local authorities have recently been increasing efforts to fight against the illegal practices committed by owners of government homes who offer place for rent to single expatriate men. The efforts came in response to complaints made by area residents who complained about the increased social and security risks, which they say as it is because of the bachelors in the locality. In separate, an inspection campaign was held by the government’s tripartite committee at the Wafer market in Suliabiya, said Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor’s (MSAL) assistant undersecretary for cooperation affairs Abdul Aziz Shuaib. He said the campaign resulted in issuing several […]
Three fake companies brought in 3000 expats were identified at Jleeb Al Shuyoukh

Police received order to arrest around 2,900 expatriates of various nationalities after 90 people who were arrested confessed they had paid the forged companies that signed contracts with various government bodies, Al-Anbaa daily reported. The deputy prosecutor for human trafficking probed owners of three companies and released them on bail, the sources added. Meanwhile, a Syrian man was jailed for fake processing the government transactions which helped the forged companies to bring in, these large number of laborers. A rapid and unexpected inspection was carried out by residency detectives in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, where many expats were arrested with residencies with companies having government contracts. When the expats were questioned as to why they are not going to their work as the inspection took place during regular working hours, they had responded saying that they paid in exchange for their visas, but were left helpless when they entered the country. Police reviewed the companies files and identified that the companies’ offices were shut with no activities. To their surprise, it was 3,000 people of various nationalities who were brought in by just three fake companies. The arrested workers said they paid between KD 1,500 and KD 3,000 per visa, and it […]
Directive issued for expats workers transferring from public and private sectors

Aseel Al-Mazyad (Manpower authority’s official spokesperson and PR manager) said the authority issued directive number 133/2018 regarding transferring the expat workers from government and private sectors. Mazyad explained that private sector expat workers desiring to work for the government sector have to be approved by the Civil Service Commission, and in the same way the private sector employer who is willing to hire a government sector employee, has to justify his need for the expat workers, provided, the license has vacant positions that match these workers’ qualifications. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
PACI Branch in Fahaheel Co-operative Soceity

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) announced that it will open a new branch in Fahaheel Cooperative Society to render services to more than a million citizens and residents of Al-Ahmadi governorate. The new establishment has become a relief for the Hawalli Governorate as it would reduce the applicants entry which serves 49 areas, Director General of Kuwait’s PACI Musaed Al-Asousi said in a statement. And also added that the Ministry of Public Works would supervise the construction of the new facility. Courtesy: Arab Times
Expats Renewing Residence visa and issuing visiting visa is becoming online by mid 2019

The interior ministry’s IT sector is at present, working on a mega-project that will help the millions of expats residing in Kuwait to renew their residency visas and their dependents online at the ministry’s website instead of going to immigration departments. The new service will also help expats to issue family visit visas for parents, spouses and children, said informed sources, noting that all essential documents have to be ready before uploading in the website, which saves time in the state’s electronic archive and filling the application form. “The only problem facing the project now is collecting the health insurance fees, which is currently handled by a public services company. MoI’s IT Director Major General Ali Al-Muaili yesterday met health officials on the Cabinet’s economic committee to discuss this issue. It says they both agreed to have MoI install a program on its website to collect the fees online in collaboration with K-Net by the beginning of next year so that the project can become operational by mid-2019. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Kuwait MP says 30% of 3.3 million expats are undeserving

A senior lawmaker said that over 30% of the 3.3 million expatriates living and working in the country are “not useful”, and the government should commence practical measures to limit the number of expats. MP Mohammad Al-Dallal, a member of a National Assembly’s panel told reporters that the large number of expatriates in the country, who forms 70% of the county’s population, creates major pressure on necessary services and infrastructure like health, traffic and so on. The senior lawmaker requested the government that steps should be taken to reduce the numbers of each expat community, especially which are large in numbers like Indians, Egyptians and Bangladeshis. Dallal insisted that the current demographic structure, which is in favor of foreigners, involves national security risks for Kuwait and an immediate measures has to be taken to control this. MP Dallal said the committee for Kuwaiti employment and replacement is expected to recommend to the government to change certain private sector professional jobs “entirely for Kuwaitis”. He said this proposal, which appears to be difficult to achieve due to the total dominance of expatriates in the private sector, can be made possible over a period of 10 or 15 years. He said the […]
Priest who gave statement against Bishop Franco found dead in Jalandhar

Father Kuriakose Kattuthara (62), a Catholic priest and one of the key witnesses in the rape case against Bishop Franco Mulakkal, was found dead under suspicious circumstances at Hoshiarpur district of Punjab. He was found lying in an unconscious condition at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Dasuya sub-division and was moved to the hospital where he was declared brought dead. Father Kuriakose had served as a priest in the Jalandhar diocese and had given a statement to the police against Bishop Mulakkal, who has been accused of raping a nun 13 times between 2014 and 2016. The deceased priest had also served as a vocational trainer in a convent belonging to the Missionaries of Jesus. An eyewitness in the case said the priest had vomited near his bed, whereas the exact cause behind the death is unknown. Father Kattuthara’s family alleged that the priest had received death threats from those in the church for speaking against the Bishop. Jose Kattuthara, priest’s brother have filed a complaint with the police, demanding a probe into the case.” He had also claimed that the police was aware of the threats issued to the priest. Dasuya Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) AR Sharma told news […]
Government is on a move to Kuwaitize the public sector completely

Khaled Al-Roudhan, Minister of Commerce and Industry ordered all the ministry bodies to submit a schedule for replacing expats with citizens. As per the Civil Service Commissions’ plan on replacing expats with citizens, the ultimate goal is to touch 100% of the total workforce (kuwaitization) in administrative, media, PR, IT, development, follow-up and statistics jobs within five years, 95% in scientific, financial, economic and commercial jobs and 80% in craft jobs. MP Mohammad Al-Dallal called for the need to make a pause in the growing numbers of certain expatriate communities, especially the Egyptian and the Filipino communities. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Plans to reduce Expats working in Government projects by 25 Percent

The Public Authority for Manpower is in discussion with other ministries and state departments in order to reduce security, cleaning and handling laborers working in government projects by 25 percent, deputy director Hassan Al-Khodor said. The reducing plan is a step towards resolving Kuwait’s demographic imbalances and stop hiring expats without proper studies. In the meanwhile, the parliament’s replacement and employment committee demanded that government bodies has to create new jobs for Kuwaitis who are holders of undesired qualifications, especially those with intermediate school certificates, as they number 7,037 out of 12,000 unemployed people. The committee called for serious government steps to reduce the number of expats. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Ban lifted on age limit for Expatriates’ parents Visit Visa

The interior ministry lifted the ban on the age limit for expatriates’ parents to bring them on visit visas. The department of residency was not issuing such visas for parents above 60 years of age. But now, expatriates can procure visit visas for their parents regardless of their age after authorities began collecting medical fees for their parents’ treatment. The department said that the visa validity will be for one month, which can also be renewed by the respective governorate department directors. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Expat job openings in Municipal Council Secretariat, agreed by Kuwait CSC

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) gave consent to grant 36 jobs to expats to work as secretaries for Municipal Council members and the secretariat general. The Council’s Deputy Chairman Abdullah Al-Mahri and Secretary General Yousif Al-Soqobi recently met CSC Undersecretary Bader Al-Hamad to request permission to hire secretaries and typists because of the huge amount of incomplete work. It is to be noted that, the Municipal Council secretariat is highly understaffed. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Expats Teachers whose degrees not accredited, received consent to work, but with a condition

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) gave the consent for the expatriate teachers, newly hired by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and which is approved already by CSC to proceed in their recruitment procedures, being pending their degrees accreditation by the ministry of higher education. MoE inquired about the possibility in prior of allowing the newly recruited teachers to commence work after affidavits duly signed, to have the candidates degrees accredited by the ministry of higher education, which usually takes 6 to 12 months. Both the CSC and MoE gave the consent to those selected, to work as to cover shortages in some public schools, but with the condition that, teachers whose degrees not being accredited by the end of this period will be terminated. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Disrespecting Kuwait will face legal actions, says Deputy Foreign Minister

Khaled Al- Jarallah, the Deputy Foreign Minister affirmed yesterday that the ministry will not delay in legally pursuing any person who disrespects Kuwait and its figures. He said that the ministry is closely monitoring every social media posts through Kuwait’s official missions abroad. Jarallah said the country will proceed to take legal actions to punish anyone who tries to insult the country, as a reflection to this statement, strict instructions has been given to Kuwaiti missions abroad. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Expats Engineers degree authentication has been outsourced

Expats Engineeering degree verifying task has been passed on to a Swedish company by making an agreement with the company by the Kuwait Engineers Soceity. Faisal Al-Atal., the head of the Kuwait Engineers society said, it is the same Swedish company which is working in the Gulf region and is responsible for finding authenticity of engineers’ certificates in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Faisal Al-Atal explained the process as, the engineer will submit all his degrees to the company and authorizes it to proceed for inquiry. The company then contacts the candidate university to find whether he/she studied in the college, confirms the period of his/her study and the subjects the candidate studied, will be the first step. The second step will be to check the authenticity of the degree seals and the data. He said the “the Swedish company will also provide the Kuwait Engineers society with the information about the criminal record of every person who wants their certificate authenticated”, adding the fees will be collected directly by the company. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Gulf Bank Launched Multicurrency ATM at Al-Jazeera Terminal

Gulf Bank has introduced a Multi currency ATM Machine at Al-Jazeera departure Terminal, through which the public can access to four foreign currencies, such as USD, AED, EUR & SAR. To find out more about Gulf Bank, customers can log on to www.e-gulfbank.com or contact customer service center 1805805 or use whatsapp service on 65805805 for assistance and guidance. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Feely Finger on smartphones developed by a French researcher

A French researcher has developed a touch sensitive robotic finger, which can be attached to the smartphones. This robotic/MobiLimb finger can crawl across the desk, it will move to gain attention when messages arrive and also it can be used as an interface to control mobile apps and games. The developer Marc Teyssier said it might also create a personal connection with the humans as it strokes its owner on the hand. Courtesy: BBC News
Internet users may face network failures globally for the next 48 hours

Internet users across the globe may experience widespread network failures as the key domain servers is to undergo routine maintenance over the next 48 hours. The Internet Corporation of Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a charity organization will carry out the maintenance work during this time period by changing the cryptographic key that helps protect the internet’s address book or the Domain Name System (DNS). This initiative is to counter the increasing incidents of cyber attacks, the ICANN said. “To be clear some internet users might be affected if their network operators or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) is not ready for this change, whereas this problem can be avoided by enabling the appropriate system security extensions,” it added. Internet users could face difficulties in accessing web pages or making any transactions in the next 48 hours, also might face inconvenience accessing the global network if they use an outdated ISP. Courtesy: NDTV
Maids hereafter must undergo medical test every time when they return from their home country

The interior ministry informed sponsors of maids from 41 Asian and African countries to make them undergo fresh medical tests any time they return from a visit to their home country. The ministry said these steps are based on new orders by the health ministry and passed the information to all sponsors that their maids must undergo fresh medical tests after they return from vacations to their home countries. The new regulations apply to domestic helpers from India, Bangladesh, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Ethiopia and other nations. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Expats entering with university degrees must have good GPA to work in Kuwait hereafter

The manpower authority is planning to issue permits to expats with university degrees entering Kuwait to work in the private sector only if they have a minimum of ‘good’ GPA. The government is currently taking steps towards resolving Kuwait’s demographic imbalance and restructuring the local labor market, including plans to endorse and accredit expats’ degrees as a mandatory to renewing their residency visas. The informed sources said this step will help adjust demographic problems and make sure that only highly specialized and skilled people will work in Kuwait. These decisions will be issued in the coming months to control visa trafficking and prevent unqualified labor entering Kuwait. Courtesy: Kuwait times
Indian arrested for performing surgery and abortions illegally

An Indian age 42, was taken into custody and sent to the public prosecution for practicing medicine without license and stealing drugs. The Indian and his other four partners were arrested inside a grocery store, where he carried out surgeries and abortions in return of money, in which most of them are residency violators. Investigations revealed the medicines he was used were stolen from government health centers. These thefts were carried out by another Asian, who was also arrested. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
New Medical Licensing Building kick started by Kuwait Health Ministry

Kuwait Minister of Health Sheikh Dr. Basel Al-Sabah participated in the inauguration of new Medical Licensing Building, who said in a statement that this new launch marks the start of new working development procedures for health licenses. The Minister appreciated all the work force who contributed in planning & construction of the building and also highlighted that this establishment aims to encourage investments and upgrade procedures & partnerships. Courtesy: KUNA
A huge fire broke out near to Kuwait Bank Headquarters

Around 2,500 workers who were working in the under construction building were quickly evacuated from the National Bank of Kuwait’s new building. Civil Defence, ambulance and police patrols hurried to the spot to evacuate people from the building, and acted with great coordination to prevent the fire from spreading and the special factor is that no injuries has been recorded.
Indians majority among the 13,000 expats deported this year till date

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah said after reviewing the ministry’s financial contracts and tenders recently, misuse of public funds has been identified in an aircraft refueling contract, which lead to expend of public funds. The ministry a detailed investigation of the matter, he said in a press statement, adding the case was referred to the public prosecution for necessary legal action against the suspects. At the same time, the interior ministry has deported 13,000 expats since the beginning of 2018, which includes labor law violators, involved in criminal cases, traffic violations and other cases. The sources added that some of the deportees were medically unfit and infected with hepatitis C and AIDS. “Many of them held university degrees,” the sources said, noting that 80 male and 20 female inmates are currently awaiting deportation. “The deportation is a quick now and no deportees spend more than a week at the deportation prison unless wanted over cases still pending in courts,” the sources explained. The sources added Indians forms the majority of deportees, followed by Filipinos, Ethiopians, Egyptians, Sri Lankans and Bangladeshis. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Kuwait Minister of Health passed three decisions

Kuwait Minister of Health Sheikh Dr. Bassel Al-Sabah passed three decisions. Firstly, employment of pharmacists with illegal residency & hiring children (with no experience) of Kuwaiti women to provide an enrollment for these categories to work at the MoH. Secondly, reorganizing health department of ports and borders. Thirdly, transferring the central tuberculosis laboratory to public health labs in order to improvise the working of public health department. Courtesy: KUNA
Indian including three mine workers has been kidnapped in Burkina Faso

Three Mine workers of Indian, South African & Burkinabe nationality has been kidnapped in a northern part of Burkina Faso by unidentified armed men between the Inata gold mine and the town of Djibo bordering Mali and Niger, a security source told AFP The kidnapping was confirmed by a fellow mine worker who said the three men left the site (of the mine) around 8:00 am and by 10:00 am they had no more news of them and by alerting the defence and security forces, it was confirmed there had been a kidnapping. Courtesy: Kashmir Reader
Another American arrested in Drugs Trafficking in Kuwait

Americans apprehended on drugs trafficking, detectives siezed him with 13 kg of marijuana, 11 bottles of liquor and wine, a sensitive scale, a pistol, 42 rounds and three magazines. The suspect confessed that he brought drugs to Kuwait through the US military air cargo. Detectives was informed as the suspect possess drugs in his house, and the raid occurred. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Amendments in Private Nurseries regulations

Minister of Social affairs & labor and Economic affairs, Hind Al-Sabeeh took decision on regulating private nurseries. This move is to prevent owners from utilizing the nursery building or a part of it for other activities not mentioned in the license agreement. The opinion also authorized MSAL’s women & children department to receive license applications and to issue them within a maximum period of 60 days as well as renew existing ones within 30 days. This decision also banned anyone from residing in nursery or hiring men, other than security guards and officers. The amendment also made mandatory for nurseries to organize sports, cultural and recreational activities for kids only during the summer vacation and not in afternoon periods. The department urged licensees to apply for renewal, three months before the license expires. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Jet Airways passengers got hurt due to Pilots’ carelessness

More than 30 Indian passengers have been hurt, some of them had bleeding in their nose and ears, received treatment after landing safely back to Mumbai. The incident occurred as pilots ‘forgot’ to turn on a switch regulating cabin pressure, officials said. Jet Airways flight 9W 697 from Mumbai to Jaipur turned back shortly after take off.The Boeing 737 aircraft, which was carrying 166 passengers, landed safely. Lalit Gupta, a senior official of India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), told the Hindustan Times newspaper that the crew had forgotten to select a switch to maintain cabin pressure. Courtesy: BBC News
Cleaning firms will be fined and the workers will be deported if found beseeching

Cleaning firms will be fined and the workers will be deported if found beseeching Kuwait Municipality announced yesterday that it will deport any cleaning worker if found beseeching to the public.All companies working in all governorates were informed with these regulations, Municipality’s Director General Ahmad Al-Manfouhi said. And he also added there will be inspection campaigns next Sunday in cooperation with the Public Authority for Manpower, Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Courtesy: KUNA
Yusaku Maezawa, the first Space X passenger to the Moon

Elon Musk announced the first paying passenger Yusaku Meazawa, aboard a SpaceX rocket going to the moon. The 42-year-old billionaire and founder of the largest Japanese online clothing retailer, Zozotown, will not be landing on the moon, but will fly around it. The mission is set for 2023. Meazawa said he plans to bring between six and eight artists along with him–the idea being that they’ll be inspired to share the trip with people on Earth, in a better way as everyone could not. Musk said Maezawa, whose estimated net worth is $3 billion, is paying a significant amount for the 4 to 5-day trip, but didn’t disclose the exact amount. But, he said he’s already made a substantial down payment on the flight, and that the cost will balance the cost to SpaceX to make it happen. Courtesy: inc.com
Expatriate Bachelors, Fake degree issue & Immoral Activity in parlor discussed by the Kuwait Ministry

Riyadh Al-Adasani called Ministry officials for a committee to discuss about building towns especially to house expatriate workers, as some of them at present, stay in family-populated areas, causing trouble. Adasani said the government had signed contracts with major consortia to build towns to house expatriate workers, in, which, some of them are already built but remains vacant for no reason.There are around 3.2 million expatriates in Kuwait along with 1.4 million citizens. Five lawmakers last day, submitted a proposal calling for a parliamentary committee to probe the issue of fake university degrees and the lack of sufficient preparations by the education ministry ahead of the start of the new school year. The lawmakers said several schools has limited air-conditioning, sewage and other basic services. They demanded the formation of a three-member committee to investigate these two issues and present its report within three months. The committee will be formed by next month. Meanwhile, Islamist opposition MP Mohammad Hayef yesterday charged that many immoral activities are being carried at few massage shops. He said that the interior ministry has not yet shown sufficient cooperation on this issue and suggested to allow only clinics to provide massage services under strict […]
Kuwaiti couple jailed for attacking Srilankan Customs officers

A Kuwaiti couple sentenced six-month jail and also fined 138,000 rupees ($860) for attacking Srilanka’s customs officer at Colombo main international airport on last Friday The couple arrested while trying to smuggle in a Burmese mastiff into the country on July without following quarantine procedures. The woman was caught on CCTV cameras attacking the officers who tried to stop. Customs spokesman Vipula Minuwanpitiya said the duo’s pet dog was impounded and later given back to the couple. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Earthquake occured in Assam and in certain areas of Bengal

An earthquake with Richter Scale of magnitude 5.5 hit Kokrajar, Assam at 10.20 AM IST today (12/09/18) Heavy quiver were felt in West Bengal and Bangladesh. People in Guwahati had said that the tremors lasted for about 10 seconds. Tremors also felt in some parts of Bihar. As of now, there is no reports of any damages. Also today in Jammu and Kashmir as well as in Haryana, there was a light quake. An earthquake of magnitude 3.1 occurred at 5.43 am IST in Jhajjar, Haryana while an earthquake of magnitude 4.6 occurred at 5.15 am in Jammu and Kashmir. Courtesy: The Indian Express
30+ expats terminated from PAHW

Minister of State for Housing and Services Affairs Jenan Bushehri executed the ministerial decision, on the rules of employing non-Kuwaitis at the Public Authority Housing Welfare (PAHW) after receiving the approval from the authority’s board of directors. Bushehri commenced the ministers’ judgement by terminating contracts of more than 30 expats from PAHW The new regulations for the appointment of non-Kuwaitis The applicant must have pursued secondary school education from a recognized university or an educational entity in Kuwait. Must be a holder of a university degree, diploma or training courses of not less than two years Have five years of experience in the field of the job after receiving the degree. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
A Chinese company has proffered a solution for the plastics polluting the environment

A grocery bag that doesn’t use common plastics and it mixes with the cold water and disappear in less than a minute. It’s a new solution that this company in Qingyuan city of Guangdong Province has introduced this to erode white pollution. “Three years ago we developed this water soluble bag after collaborating with a Guangzhou University. It’s made of PVA, a controversial material because of its biodegradability. But its water solubility makes it a perfect material for bags, which will do little harm to the environment,” said Lydia Li general manager of Polye Materials Company. The company has show cased the new material bag at rubber and plastic exhibitions for years. Li says many clients abroad have expressed interest, yet cost remains a concern, as using such bags would double or even triple expenses for retailers. “It’s an opportunity for us because they need an alternative to plastic bags. In fact, the challenge we face here is that China has not yet prohibited plastic bag usage, which makes it difficult for us to promote our product,” said Lydia Li general manager of Polye Materials Company. Courtesy: CGTN America
Chopper With 7 people crashed in Nepal, passengers status unknown

A helicopter with seven people including pilot on board crashed into a hillside in central Nepal today. It lost contact with air traffic control after taking off from the central district of Gorkha. The crashed chopper was spotted on hillside in neighbouring Dhadhing district, whereas the condition of the passengers is unknown as they were unable to reach the spot due to bad weather condition, said Kathmandu airport general manager Raj Kumar Chettri. Courtesy: News18
American arrested in kuwait for Drugs possession and selling

Crime detectives arrested an American who was found with six kilograms of marijuana, 250 grams of cocaine, eight liquor bottles, jewelry, expensive watches, and 47,000 Philippine pesos. Detectives received information about the suspect’s activity of his involvement in drug and alcohol trafficking, outside his apartment in Mangaf, and were meeting his customers in parking area within the Ahmadi governorate. After confirmation of the illegal activity occurring, a warrant was obtained and his apartment raided, where the bootleg was found. The man was arrested and was sent to the concerned authorities. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
World Beard Day Celebrated by Hundreds in Sweden

To celebrate the World Beard Day 2018, Beard Men formed a group and conducted a parade at Stockholm, Sweden, in which hundreds including beard lovers participated. Have a look at the video below Courtesy: CBS, REUTERS
Al-Ahli Bank Offers 10 lucky youths, an Adventure experience

Aiming an attention from the youth, Al- Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK) launched its “Experience an Adventure” Campaign in partnership with Al-Qiblah Travel & Tourism. This opportunity gives university students a chance to win a trip in a bi-monthly draw (10 draws in total). The Campaign begins by today (September 2nd) and ends by January 20th 2019. The luckier from each draw between the ages 18-25 will be eligible for the travel prize. The most interesting part is the winner can invite a friend or family member to accompany in the travel. In addition to this, winners will be given a FREE prepaid card worth KD 200. The winners will be exploring on of the following destinations Abu Dhabi Sir Bani Yas Island Day Trip (Snorkeling Incl.) Jordan Wadi Mujib (Dead Sea) and Ziplining Trip Atlantis Dubai Dolphin Adventure Hot Air Balloon Ride – Dubai Sky Dive Dubai YAS Water world VIP Experience YAS Ferrari World VIP Experience Dinner in the Sky Dubai Experience Zipline – Dubai Qatar Desert Safari trip Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Kuwait’s New MOE Building costing K.D 76 million expected to be inaugurated by October

Education Minister Hamid Al-Azmi visited the new Ministry of Education (MOE) building at South Surra, where he had put forth minor suggestions. The Minister along with undersecretaries toured the building. The building is expected to be open by October and the subdivisions will be extended later. The building covers an area of 142,300m2 consists 12 floors and is built at a cost of K.D 76 million. It is constructed in a unique shape resembling a dhow, and is set to house offices for the ministry’s various administrative sectors and departments. Courtesy : Kuwait Times
Defense Minister orders to detain officials involved in the death of cadets

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Sheikh Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah announced to form a joint investigation committee after two cadets died at Ali Al-Sabah Military Academy. Sheikh Nasser also instructed the Army chief of staff Lt Gen Mohammad Al-Khader to detain some officials from Ali Al-Sabah Military Academy. The directorate of moral guidance and public relations at the defense ministry issued a statement saying that Sheikh Nasser’s instruction is to refer the detainees to the joint investigation committee to probe the occurrence of the student officer’s deaths, who passed away at the academy. The officials from various departments were arrested namely, the commander of Ali Al-Sabah Military College and Assistant director of educational affairs. The seized were also from the Directorate of educational affairs, the arms wing commander, the students’ affairs commander and the assistant commander of the battalion. It also includes students’ affairs command officers namely, commander of the student officers, commander of the student cadets and from the weapons wing, the weapons agent and four weapons trainers. The directorate of moral guidance and public relations said the joint investigation committee consists of the ministry of defense represented by the military judicial authority, ministry of health and […]
KD 84,000 charged against company for illicit use of state property

Mubarak Al-Kabeer municipality’s safety department executed inspection targeting various companies to ensure whether its storage licenses are still valid and no illicit use of the state property or the land. Head of the department Maisa Bushehri said the probe resulted in issuing a charge sheet with a fine of KD 84,000 to a company for illegally using 10,000 square meters of state property for office and storage purpose, and by holding an expired license. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
59 fake offices, sponsored 393 expats workers uncovered

The Public Authority for Manpower executed a campaign at a few malls in Sharq, which ended in findings that many offices were shut, which had sponsored hundreds. The operations commenced as part of field tours that aimed at organizing the marketplace and stop marginal laborers against violation of residency law or those who work for the people other than the one who provided them residencies, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor and State Minister for Economic Affairs Hind Al-Sabeeh said. The operation resulted in the discovery of 59 fake offices with 393 expats registered on them, she added. Regarding the reports of non-renewal of some expat laborers residencies who do not have degrees, the decision is still to be reviewed. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
17,000 job opportunities for Kuwaitis in private sectors soon

The Manpower and Government Restructuring Program (MGRP) is carrying out distinguished efforts towards boosting the percentage of employment opportunities for Kuwaitis and lessening future unemployment, MGRP Secretary General Fawzi Al-Majdali said. The foremost objective of this program is to achieve the targeted increase in Kuwaiti labor percentage in the private sector in various aspects, to be precise, a regular monthly income for Kuwaitis in particular in private sectors, Majdali said. He added that the proposal to amend the percentages of Kuwaiti workers in the private sector is complete, and is being coordinated with the concerned authorities to make 17,000 job opportunities shortly. According to the proposed law, telecommunication and banking sectors will witness the highest percentage rise, because the amendments stipulates that 65 and 68 percent of employees should be Kuwaitis in both the sectors. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Are you above 40? eye checkup report is mandatory for license applying or renewal

If you are above 40 and applying for or renewing driving license, a visual checkup report is must. And the trickiest part is, if your photo in your apllication form is is with wearing spectacles, you don’t have to undergo these steps, If not, you will be instructed to undergo ophthalmological examination to make sure you have a clear eyesight. You will be given an application form by the traffic department, with which you should visit the Qurtuba eye checkup center. The examination is free of cost. Procedure for applying license in Kuwait The applicant should visit the license section at the traffic department of the governorate. The documents needed includes the original passport, civil ID copies, two passport-size photographs, a letter of consent by the company if employed, the copy of the work permit issued by the Ministry of Social affairs and Labor or a letter of employment from the ministry and eye & blood test reports. New applicants however, will be asked to submit not just the above mentioned documents, but also an attested degree certificate and salary certificate showing a minimum monthly salary of KD 400, and there is exemption for some professions. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
First Apple Computer is now for Auction, Expected to Collect more than $300,000

A fully functional Apple-1 computer, is going up for auction next month. Only 200 were originally produced by Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs during 1976 and 77, which sold at the The Byte Shop computer store in Mountain View, California. They sold about 175 of them in total, but only 60 are believed to remain in circulation. The one that goes up for auction next month is special because it is now restored to working condition by June 2018 by Apple-1 expert Corey Cohen The most remarkable aspect of this Apple-1 computer is that it is documented to be fully operational: the system was operated without fault for approximately eight hours in a comprehensive test,” according to the auction house. Another thing that makes this particular Apple-1 unique is that there aren’t any modifications to the board. The fact that this one is untouched suggests that it might have been acquired by someone who wanted a fully functional computer without having to modify it—unheard of in the 1970s, but it’s the very thing that Apple would become most associated with in the 1980s. Pre-bidding for the rare computer starts on September 13, 2018 and continues until the live auction, which […]
Giant Squid washed up on New Zealand shore dead goes viral

A 14ft-long squid stunned people in the beach as it washed up on the New Zealand sea shore.It measures about 4.5 metres in length. Sea diving brothers Daniel, Jack and Matthew Aplin came across the monster at Red Rocks, near Wellington.They later phoned the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research who arrived to collect the squid. A spokesman from the Department of Conservation said, it was likely the body of a giant squid Courtesy: Daily star & Pedestrian
3000+ work contracts of expats working in Public sector cancelled

Work contracts of 3,140 non-Kuwaitis serving in the public sector has been cancelled, Ahmad Al-Jassar Chairman of the Civil Service Commission told yesterday. These contracts has been disproved as per CSC decision of replacing expatriates with nationals in the government sector for the 2017-2018 period, which exempted jobs in the medical and health sectors The dismissed personnel had served in various ministries, government departments and other independent regulatory bodies. The number of non-Kuwaiti civil servants subject to the commission’s resolution amount to 44,572, including the terminated. They serve in 46 government sectors, including teaching and training,law and Islamic affairs, engineering, social & educational services as well as sports. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
World record by a man for twisting his feet backwards and walking

Moses Lanham, 57, owes his super powers to the strange make up of his body. He has double cartilage and extra tissue in his knee joints, hips and ankles, which allows him to bend in extraordinary ways. He developed his strange abilities after being injured when he fell 18ft from a rope in gym class when he was 14 years old. Mr Lanham, from Michigan, United States, claims twisting his feet completely behind him along with his knees is more comfortable than walking normally. Mr Lanham has already broken two records, with his latest one the world’s fastest man to walk with his feet backwards over 20 metres. He used to have the World’s Most Flexible Feet title as well. Courtesy: Metro & Caters
Venezuela hit by earthquake at the magnitude 7.3

The magnitude 7.3 quake on Tuesday was the largest to hit Venezuela since 1900, the The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said.The USGS recorded the earthquake in the coastal town of Irapa and tremors were felt 286 miles (622 km) away in the capital of Caracas.Its magnitude was recorded at 7.3 and said it had a depth of 76 miles (123 kilometres). In downtown Caracas, concrete from the top floors of the unfinished Tower of David skyscraper fell onto the pavement, which caused firefighters to close off traffic.The Tower of David began in 1990 as a symbol of the OPEC nation’s ambitions of becoming a regional financial centre. But it was abandoned after the financial crisis and in the past two decades of socialist rule it has become a symbol of urban blight and has been occupied by squatters. The quake was felt as far away as Colombia’s capital of Bogota and authorities briefly closed the international airport to inspect for runway damage.The earthquake also was felt in Guyana, Barbados and Grenada. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) issued an initial tsunami warning for the Venezuelan coast and neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada.It later updated its alert, stating: “There […]
Earthquake at 5.0 magnitude jolted China’s Yunnan province

Picture of villagers receiving food at a shelter after two separate magnitude 5.0 earthquakes jolted Sijie township, Tonghai county, in Yunnan province Twenty-four people were injured after a 5.0 magnitude earthquake tremored Tonghai County in the city of Yuxi, southwest China’s Yunnan Province on Monday. This is the second temblor in less than 24 hours hitting the same region. According to a statement from the provincial civil affairs department, the quake affected more than 48,000 residents in the counties of Tonghai and Huaning and the district of Jiangchuan; over 6,000 homes were damaged Courtesy: accuweather.com .
300 injured in Spain Music Festival

More than 300 people got injured as a wooden platform collapsed at a music festival in Spain late Sunday night. The incident occurred on the final night of a three-day cultural and sports concert O Marisquiño in Vigo at Spain’s northwest coast. Many among the crowd fell into the sea as the stage got collapsed. The reason for this catastrophe is still unknown. And the below video became viral in the social media, sorry about the clarity, as it is videotaped by one among the crowd. The event organizers said that the O Marisquiño concerts met the security conditions required by legislation and the organizers were ready to speak with authorities as needed. Courtesy: CNN Edition
Cancer causing Cadmium found in the Volkswagen Elec Cars

Cadmium is a highly toxic cancer-causing chemical element which is a by-product of zinc production. It had also been found that this toxic element is present in 124,000 VW plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles proceeding a production shutdown and possible rebuy. Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA), Germany’s Federal Transport Authority, may demand a rebuy of all affected vehicles due to the toxic presence in high-voltage battery chargers – roughly 0.008 grams per device. The material is prohibited by the German government for use in vehicles, due to the harm it can highly do to the environment when the vehicle is recycled or scrapped. Volkswagen has stopped the production of Golf GTE, Passat GTE, e-Golf, and e-Up! models. The company claims the charger containing the chem comes from an external supplier who hasn’t created any awareness about the element presence. The post-Cancer-causing metal discovered in Volkswagen plug-in cars appeared first on Motoring Research. Courtesy: msn.com
Trained crows in French theme park for cleaning

“The goal is not just to clear up, because the visitors are generally careful to keep things clean” but also to show that “nature itself can teach us to take care of the environment”, said Nicolas de Villiers of the Puy du Fou park, in the western Vendee region to The Guardian. Rooks, a member of the crow family of birds are considered to be “particularly intelligent” and in the right circumstances “like to communicate with humans and establish a relationship through play”, Villiers said. The birds will be encouraged to clean the park through the use of a small box that delivers a nugget of bird food each time it deposits a cigarette end or small piece of rubbish. Courtesy: theguardian.com
Couple arrested for a murder at Bneid Al Gar

An Egyptian aged 30, was killed by an Asian who stabbed him in his heart during a fight at Bneid Al-Gar. Paramedics reached the spot with police in response to an emergency call, declared him dead and the body was sent to the coroner. The weapon used recovered, and as per the eyewitness testimony, it became known that the suspect is an Asian. Detectives trapped the suspect in less than 24 hours, and investigations revealed that he along with his wife committed the murder, and both were arrested at the airport. The duo confessed and were sent to concerned authorities for further investigation about their motives and a criminal case was charged against them. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
Caller ID apps cannot be installed in Kuwait hereafter

The Public Authority for Communications and Information Technology commenced to block caller ID smartphone applications from the Internet providers of Kuwait after observing that such apps violate the privacy regulations, obtain their confidential information, which has led to family disputes and bank thefts. The IT Department explained that when the user installs a caller ID app, the user grants access to all information on their phone such as phone number and other personal information. Courtesy: Kuwait Times
An uncommon event took place in South Korea

Employees from the North and South Korea played rare football matches at Sangam World Cup Stadium, Seoul, on Saturday, where around 20,000 gathered to cheer them. Two matches were played, first between South Korean members of the Federation of Korean Trade Unions (FKTU) and North Korean construction workers from the General Federation of Trade Unions of Korea (GFTUK).Followed by the next match between South Korean members of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) and North Korean light industry workers from GFTUK. The crowd enjoyed it regardless of who won or lost. Instead of shouting “Dae-han Minguk,” which means Republic of Korea in English, they shouted “Tong-il Jo-guk,” which means unified homeland. North Korean teams won both games 3-1 and 2-0. It was in October 2015, when the duo played for the last time The crowd also raised placards in white and red which conveys, “We are one.” Courtesy: Korea times