A recent report by the Audit Bureau has revealed that the death rate from diabetes in the State of Kuwait has significantly surpassed the global average, reaching 7 percent compared to the worldwide average of 3 percent.

The annual report from the Bureau’s Performance Control Department, which evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of relevant authorities in curbing the spread of diabetes in Kuwait, showed that Kuwait ranks second among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in terms of diabetes mortality rate. Oman leads with an 8 percent mortality rate, followed by Kuwait at 7 percent, Qatar at 6 percent, the UAE at 5 percent, Saudi Arabia at 3 percent, and Bahrain at 2 percent.

The report highlighted a 35 percent increase in diabetes-related deaths in 2021 compared to 2017, with the majority of deaths occurring among individuals aged 60 to 85 and older, totaling 424 cases.

Additionally, the report noted a troubling rise in the number of school-aged children diagnosed with diabetes, with more than 50 percent of type 2 diabetes cases linked to morbid obesity.

To address these concerns, the Audit Bureau recommended that relevant authorities enact laws and regulations aimed at reducing the risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases. These measures include increasing the prices of tobacco and sugar-sweetened beverages, establishing covered sports halls utilizing existing sports facilities in schools, and creating dedicated cycling lanes in residential areas.

Furthermore, the recommendations emphasize the importance of enhancing health awareness and education across all age groups, as well as encouraging regular health check-ups for the early detection and management of diabetes and its complications.

The Ministry of Interior is planning to introduce physical driving licenses for expatriates, with a proposed fee ranging from 10 to 30 dinars. This fee is intended to cover the costs of raw materials, equipment, and inks needed for the production of the physical ID licenses.

This decision is based on feedback received by the General Traffic Department, highlighting issues faced by expatriates when leaving Kuwait by land. Many Gulf and Arab countries do not recognize the digital driving licenses from the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app, leading to violations.

However, within Kuwait, digital licenses on the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app will continue to be accepted by traffic and rescue patrols.

The Public Authority for Manpower is in the process of giving final touches to a law that will allow domestic workers (Article No. 20) to transfer their work permits to the private sector (Article No. 18). The decision is nearing completion and is expected to be issued before the end of this week. One of the key conditions for transfer is that the worker must have worked with the sponsor for a minimum of one year as domestic worker.

After meeting this requirement, the workers in this category will be eligible to transfer to the private sector. Sources emphasized that transferring a domestic worker’s work permit to the private sector is permissible across various domains such as government projects, SMEs (small and medium enterprises), or any other sector, contingent upon approval from the initial sponsor. In this case the workers are assured full labor rights in the private sector.

The Ministry of Interior is advancing a new traffic law to increase fines for various traffic violations. This initiative follows studies indicating that such violations significantly contribute to rising rates of traffic accidents, reports Al-Anba daily. The objective is not to impose financial burdens on citizens or residents but rather to foster safer roads and reduce fatalities and injuries resulting from accidents.

A security source emphasized that people often comply strictly with traffic regulations in other countries, including Gulf states, due to the high fines imposed there. Many admit to adhering to rules like wearing seat belts and avoiding phone use while driving simply because of the deterrent effect of hefty fines.

Highlighting the inadequacy of current penalties in deterring violations, the source pointed out that fines introduced in the 1970s, such as 50 dinars for running a red traffic light, once represented a substantial portion of salaries but now constitute a mere fraction. This disparity underscores the need for updated penalties that align with current income levels, thereby promoting discipline and enhancing deterrence.

Google Cloud is set to establish its presence in Kuwait within the next two months, following the completion of all necessary commercial and legal procedures and licenses. Sources familiar with the matter disclosed to Al-Qabas that Google Cloud will operate directly with the Kuwaiti government, bypassing the need for a local intermediary. This initiative falls under the framework of Law No. 116 of 2013, aimed at encouraging foreign investment.

The company has selected its team to manage operations in Kuwait and oversee contracts valued at over one billion dollars. These contracts are geared towards facilitating digital and technological transformations across government agencies at all levels.

Recently, Google Cloud announced a strategic partnership with the Government of Kuwait to spearhead a comprehensive digital transformation program. This collaboration aims to leverage Google Cloud’s expertise in data management, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. The goal is to support Kuwait’s national agenda by enhancing citizen services, optimizing government operations, and driving innovation across sectors such as healthcare, education, disaster recovery, and smart city initiatives.

In May 2023, Google finalized the establishment of “Google Cloud Services Company” in Kuwait, operating under the one-person company system with a capital of 600 thousand dinars. This entity is fully owned by Google Europe, Middle East, and Africa Unlimited, in accordance with Kuwait’s Direct Investment Promotion Law.

The forthcoming establishment of Google Cloud’s office in Kuwait marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to fostering digital advancement and partnership with Kuwait’s public sector.

Acting Chief of the Kuwait Fire Force, Major General Khaled Abdullah Fahad, emphasized on Sunday the life-saving potential of a project to connect building fire alarm systems to KFF’s central command, aimed at protecting lives, properties, and ensuring societal safety. In an interview with KUNA, he outlined that a dedicated team is overseeing the implementation of this crucial initiative. Major General Fahad praised the commitment of the First Deputy Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Al-Sabah in conducting inspection campaigns and addressing violations effectively. He highlighted the ambitious scope of the project, which aims to link over 50,000 buildings to the central command, enhancing response times to incidents and emergencies.

Explaining the project’s structure, Major General Fahad detailed its division into three phases based on building types: new constructions, older buildings already equipped with fire detection systems, and those lacking any fire alarm systems. He stressed that the installation of panels in buildings will enable immediate notification to the central command, ensuring swift action within 120 seconds of an incident.

The responsibility for installing these panels lies with the landlords, initially focusing on critical structures such as hospitals. Major General Fahad shared statistics from 2023, indicating that the Kuwait Fire Force managed 16,080 incidents, including 4,394 fires and 1,257 in residential areas. Al-Farwaniya was identified as the governorate with the highest number of fires, predominantly caused by electrical faults. Highlighting progress in safety, he noted a 25% decrease in firefighter injuries compared to 2022, with the longest fire incident lasting between 10 to 19 minutes.

Kuwaiti authorities have relaxed requirements for family residence visas, allowing some non-degree holders to sponsor their immediate family. This change, effective since January 28, 2024, follows a gradual reopening of the program after a suspension in August 2022.

Spouses and children can now be sponsored under the new regulations, but the minimum monthly salary requirement of 800 Kuwaiti dinars remains. Previously, the sponsor also needed a university degree relevant to their field of work.

However, the degree requirement is waived for specific professions. Details regarding these exempt professions haven’t been released yet. It’s recommended to contact the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior for clarification.

This policy shift aims to attract and retain skilled foreign workers by enabling them to reunite with their families in Kuwait.

Dr. Noura Al- Mashaan, Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs, emphasized Saturday the urgency of addressing and surmounting obstacles hindering the progress of the new passenger terminal project – Terminal 2. She highlighted the need for effective solutions to expedite construction. Following her meeting with Sheikh Hamoud Al-Mubarak Humoud Al-Sabah, President of Civil Aviation, Dr. Al-Mashaan stated to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that efforts are ongoing to develop Kuwait International Airport’s infrastructure and enhance its operational capabilities.

The discussion also encompassed matters concerning the General Administration of Civil Aviation, the Ministry of Interior, and the General Fire Force, with a focus on governmental performance. Dr. Al-Mashaan emphasized the commitment of all stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues promptly. This meeting forms part of a series of regular sessions aimed at ensuring the timely delivery of the new passenger terminal project, addressing any challenges with external partners to meet required standards. Dr. Al-Mashaan underscored close collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority to overcome obstacles and maintain progress in this pivotal project, integral to Kuwait’s national infrastructure development and economic enhancement.

The sixth generation camera system has been activated to capture images of violating motorists near traffic lights and intersections; while the Operations Unit at the General Traffic Department (GTD) in the Interior Ministry will register traffic violations, reports Al- Shahed daily quoting sources. Sources explained that sixth-generation cameras monitor violations like not wearing a seat belt and using the mobile phone by hand while driving, adding the Operations Unit is in charge of imposing fines on violators.

Sources disclosed that the Control Unit records about 100 traffic violations every hour; including using the mobile phone while driving, not focusing on the road and not wearing a seat belt. Meanwhile, statistics from GTD revealed that the number of using the mobile phone while driving violations reached 186,000 last year. It can be recalled that in September 2017, the ministry imposed fines on drivers who do not wear seat belts and those who use the mobile phone while driving.

However, the lawmakers objected at the time and launched a campaign against the ministry; prompting it to retract the decision. Chaos on the roads resumed as drivers have not been committed to rules on seat belt and mobile phone and other traffic violations. The remarkable increase in the number of traffic violations indicates that many people are ignoring traffic regulations

The Ministry of Interior, with all of its field security sectors, will carry out an unprecedented security campaign against Residency Law violators once the two-week extension of the deadline for them to leave the country or legalize their status ends on Sunday, June 30. Sources from the ministry revealed that the campaign covers all governorates with the participation of security, residency affairs investigation, criminal investigation, rescue, and special services directorates as per the directive of First Deputy Premier, Minister of Interior and Defense Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah. Sources explained that the extensive security campaign is aimed at eliminating Residency Law violators; even those who are in the farms, chalets and remote areas. Sources also warned that the necessary legal measures will be taken against those who harbor these violators. Sources disclosed that four sites have been allocated for violators who will be arrested or surrendered to the authorities after the deadline.

They said these sites include the Deportation Prison, Juvenile Welfare Department building at the Sulaibiya Prison Complex, Accommodation Department, and Detention Department building in the Residency Investigations General Department building along the United Nations Roundabout (formerly Al-Azham). They added these sites could accommodate about 3,500 people in preparation for their deportation upon completion of legal and administrative procedures — the most challenge important of which is coordination with their embassies to obtain travel documents for them. Meanwhile, in a press statement, the ministry confirmed that Assistant Undersecretary for Private Security Affairs at the Interior Ministry Major General Abdullah Saffah Al-Mulla, who heads the field campaign against violators, recently held a coordination meeting with Assistant Undersecretary for Public Security Affairs Major General Hamad Al-Munaifiand officials of the concerned security sectors; during which he conveyed the minister’s instructions.

They discussed the efforts exerted to amend the status of violators who applied for such amendment at the Residency Affairs General Department, ensure the continuous provision of all means of comfort to expatriates staying in the shelters, and complete the security procedures. They also reviewed the mechanism for organizing security and inspection campaigns in various governorates to arrest violators who did not leave the country or legalize their status within the specified period. During the meeting, Al-Mulla stressed the need for full vigilance and readiness of the field security sectors, as well as their concerted efforts to strictly enforce the law. It can be recalled that the ministry deported more than 40,000 violators last year as part of the expanded security campaigns it carried out throughout the country.

Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) experts have warned about the legal and social consequences of the latest iPhone update despite its benefits, reports Al-Rai daily. These experts made the warning after Apple unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference the feature of recording phone calls, converting them into written text and obtaining summaries of them through AI techniques; which will be implemented through the latest operating system — iOS 18.

They stressed the need to pay attention to this feature, given the legal and social consequences of the registration process. They explained that “while making a phone call, the phone application will include a button that records the conversation when pressed. Once this process begins, the other party making the call will receive a notification or alert informing him that the call is being recorded, and the recording will not take place unless approved by the other party.”

Chairman of the Cybersecurity Committee at the Electronic Media Union Mohammad Al-Rashidi confirmed to the daily that “the call recording feature will be with the knowledge of both parties, because the person wishing to record will first send an alert to the other party, and upon approval, the recording process will begin. Caution and attention must be given, because some may not be familiar with this technology. If approved, the consequences must be known, or it could be rejected from the beginning.” Information security and AI expert Eng. Nasser Al-Ustad said “there is a more dangerous stage, as some who obtain the voice could use AI techniques, which make the owner of this voice say false information and things that he did not say, and can even make him call other people. They commit fraud using the voice generated by AI techniques, and then the concerned person finds he did and said things that he has nothing to do with and about which he knows nothing.

The arrival registration notice is good, because technology is no longer a double-edged sword, but a weapon with more than one edge. On one hand, it is dangerous, and on the other hand, it cannot be dispensed with, as it is utilized in work, entertainment and all aspects of life.” Cybersecurity expert Abdulaziz Al-Mutairi has stressed the need to “raise public awareness about the risks of some updates, including call recording, which may expose sensitive data to the public and expose users to blackmail by some individuals (hackers). Unfortunately, not everyone is aware of how to use these technologies, which may expose them to the risk of having their calls recorded without their knowledge.”

The Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah on Tuesday assigned the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) to prepare a draft law to temporarily lift the ban on transferring domestic help visas (visa 20) to work visas in the private sector (visa 18).

As per report, the ban on transferring from article 20 o article 18 would be lifted for two months in order to meet the requirements of the labor market under specific guidelines that maintain balance in supply and demand.

Members of the Board of Directors of the Kuwait Pharmaceutical Society, Muhammad Al-Enazi and Abdulaziz Al-Jadaan, have expressed their support for efforts aimed at establishing a comprehensive electronic system to track and monitor the procurement, distribution, and supply of medicines from procurement to the final beneficiary. They highlighted the critical need to link drug prescriptions between the government and private sectors to minimize instances of duplicate prescriptions and interruptions in medication availability despite sufficient resources. In a press statement titled “The Electronic Prescription to Address Waste and Theft of Medicines,” they emphasized that such a program should be the outcome of collaborative efforts within the Ministry of Health.

This includes departments such as Information Systems, Drug Inspection, Medical Warehouses, and other technical units. Their goal is to ensure transparency and efficiency in medication procurement processes, advocating that procurement should not be conducted through private companies or tenders to safeguard the confidentiality and security of pharmaceutical information. They underscored that pharmaceutical information is vital for national security and should be protected from any unauthorized access, compromise, or cyber threats. This approach aims to enhance the integrity of pharmaceutical supply chains and ensure that medications reach patients without interruptions or security breaches. The initiative reflects a commitment to modernizing the medicine and pharmacy sector in Kuwait, addressing longstanding challenges through technological advancement and stringent security measures

Following directives from the Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, and under the supervision of Major General Hamad Al-Munifi, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Security Affairs, security campaigns and checkpoints will be set up in all governorates.

These operations will commence after midnight at the entrances and exits of residential and commercial areas to enhance security and apprehend outlaws.

Statistics issued by the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy revealed a 45 million imperial gallon increase in water consumption which reached 505.701 million imperial gallons compared to the production of 460.491 million imperial gallons on Monday. Sources from the ministry attributed the increase in consumption over production to the rising temperatures, indicating that the strategic water reserve reached 3,649.378 million imperial gallons.

Despite this, it is still necessary to rationalize the consumption of water similar to electricity in order to avoid withdrawing from the strategic water reserve and to save millions spent to desalinate water from the sea, sources added. In a related context and despite the high temperatures that exceeded 50 degrees Celsius, the electricity load index stabilized in the green zone yesterday; recording 16,021 megawatts at peak time for the second day in a row after the entry of nearly 1,000 megawatts from South Zour Station after the completion of the necessary maintenance works.

Sources explained that the stability of the index in the green zone does not mean the ministry will not resort to programmed cuts if it needs to do so due to any emergency or increase in consumption rates. Therefore, it is necessary to continue to follow rationalization mechanisms that have contributed a major role in the decline in consumption rates, especially in the government sector.

The load rates, as of yesterday, were still less than the maximum load expected by the ministry for the summer of this year — 16,707 megawatts, sources added. Meanwhile, the Kuwait Gulf Oil Company announced on Tuesday its ongoing efforts to reduce electricity consumption at its work sites, including its main office and joint operations. This initiative aligns with state directives to regulate electricity usage, decrease electrical loads, and sustain national resources. In a press statement, the company highlighted that its employees are actively engaged in energy-saving practices, such as turning off lights, air conditioning units, computers, and other equipment after official working hours.

In joint operations areas, various legal measures have been implemented in administrative offices, fields, and operations areas. Additionally, official working hours at external locations have been adjusted to comply with state procedures during peak periods. The Kuwait Gulf Oil Company reiterated its commitment to public benefit by reducing energy consumption and preserving the environment and public resources. The company expressed hope that these measures will achieve the desired goals and contribute to the ongoing efforts to conserve state resources and rationalize electricity consumption in the oil sector. The company also appreciated the efforts of its employees and their professional and national commitment.

The Kuwait Gulf Oil Company, a subsidiary of the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, was established in 2002. It is responsible for the exploration, development, and production of oil in the onshore area of the region divided between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Experts have underscored the urgent need to implement a plan to promote rational consumption to address the power outage issue and ensure a stable summer. Mishal Al-Mana highlighted the Consumer Protection Association’s efforts, in collaboration with Kuwait TV and the ministry, to raise awareness about judicious electricity and water usage. This initiative includes posters, leaflets, and video clips aimed at educating the public to prevent the scheduled power cuts that the ministry announced earlier. Al-Mana revealed the association’s participation in the Advisory Committee for Awareness of Electricity and Water Usage is set to begin next week.

The Kuwait Fire Force emphasizes the necessity of fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in all establishments, including private residences, without exceptions.

Summer fires are predominantly caused by gas leaks, children playing with fire, electrical contact, leaving exhaust fans on, and using substandard connections and chargers.

The department emphasizes the crucial role of fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in all establishments, including private homes.

A source from the Kuwait Fire Force stressed to Q8–Press that these simple tools form the first line of defenseagainst fires.

Smoke detectors provide early warnings, allowing individuals to address the fire before it grows out of control.

The department identifies common causes of summer fires: gas leaks, children playing with fire during extended summer breaks, electrical issues, leaving exhaust fans running unattended, and using cheap, poorly made chargers and connections.

If a fire occurs, use the extinguisher and immediately report it to the Ministry of Interior so they can dispatch the nearest fire station.

For one’s home safety, the department recommends having a readily accessible fire extinguisher, knowing how to use it, installing smoke and gas detectors, and keeping a fire blanket on hand.

The 49th victim of NBTC camp fire was officially identified as Mr. Kaluka (32), a native of Darbanga, Bihar, after conducting the DNA testing. NBTC management had bought the brother of Kaluka Mr Shahrukh Khan to Kuwait for DNA testing procedures as per the instruction from the Kuwait authorities.

Kaluka, an employee of NBTC for the past seven years, was currently working as a salesman at the NBTC Highway Center. The mortal remains will be sent to Patna via Mumbai by Air India flight at 8.15 pm Monday, informed the NBTC HR & Admin Corporate General Manager Manoj Nanthiyalat. NBTC informed that, all the arrangements have been made for Kaluka's brother to accompany the mortal remains on the same flight.

The details of the distribution of INR. 8 lakh as an immediate financial assistance to the families of all those who lost their life in the Mangaf fire and the details of the distribution of INR. 25000 towards the funeral expenses have been shared with the Indian Embassy in Kuwait, NBTC management informed.

There are currently 6 employees in the hospital, including 3 employees who are undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit.

Once again, the leadership, government, and people of Kuwait have demonstrated why they were named “Leaders in Humanitarian Work” by the United Nations. This recognition stems from their continuous efforts and significant initiatives to assist those in need worldwide.

The most recent example of this humanitarian spirit was evident in the response to the Mangaf fire and its victims. Survivors of the fire, which claimed 49 lives and injured dozens, have expressed their deep gratitude for the swift and compassionate Kuwaiti response. The injured were promptly transferred to hospitals for treatment.

Kuwait’s announcement of financial compensation for the families of the fire victims was a significant relief for many. Survivors also appreciated the repeated visits from government officials to the accident site and hospitals since the morning of the incident. The efforts of the fire force and medical emergency teams in rescuing the building’s residents were also widely praised.

Several injured workers who had been discharged from hospitals about ten days after the disaster, now residing in temporary housing. In one apartment, three injured individuals, (Supervisor Praveen Raju, driver Nalina Kishan, and worker Dorji Lama)were still recovering with plaster casts on their feet from fractures sustained while jumping from the second floor to escape the thick smoke, reports Al Rai. Raju recounted his escape, noting that he jumped onto a water tanker below but still suffered injuries due to inhaling smoke.

These survivors expressed their heartfelt thanks for the ongoing assistance, highlighting the humanitarian care they received from Kuwaiti officials at all levels. They also acknowledged the support from their home country, particularly the Indian ambassador in Kuwait and embassy staff, who were among the first to arrive at the accident site and maintained constant contact to check on their well-being.

In another apartment, four recently discharged individuals (Sharat, Santosh Pal, driver Anil Om, and storekeeper Faisal Muhammad) were also recovering, with some still in plaster casts. Pal described waking up at five in the morning to screams and attempting to escape through the smoke-filled stairs before returning to his apartment, where those who continued down succumbed to suffocation. Another survivor recounted attempting to descend from the balcony using a television cable, only to fall and break his legs when it snapped. These individuals echoed their colleagues’ gratitude for the humanitarian aid and efforts extended by Kuwait and their embassy.

Meanwhile, Five relatives of the workers injured in the Mangaf fire arrived in Kuwait. Four more individuals are expected to arrive this Wednesday. Upon their arrival, the relatives went directly to their accommodations to check the health status of the injured workers.

The Mangaf fire incident has starkly exposed the widespread issue of building violations in Kuwait’s investment and private sectors. It has been revealed that real estate owners took advantage of loopholes in supervision by authorities such as the municipality and the Ministry of Electricity and Water, reports Al-Jarida daily. They constructed unauthorized studio apartments within buildings, often without proper approvals, thereby overloading the electrical network and exacerbating the country’s current summer crisis with increased power demands.

During a tour of Farwaniya and Hawalli Governorates, it was observed that these violations commonly involved converting building entrances into makeshift studio apartments consisting of a single room with bathroom and kitchen facilities. These unauthorized constructions not only strained state services but were also aimed at maximizing rental income from these makeshift units, typically found in buildings of up to nine floors.

Following the Mangaf fire, concerns were raised about the ineffectiveness of supervisory authorities in preventing such violations. Sources from the electricity sector emphasized the critical importance of maintaining infrastructure integrity, stating that unauthorized constructions put undue pressure on the electrical and water networks, secondary electricity stations, sewage systems, and parking facilities. This situation was exacerbated by the rapid increase in unregulated population density around investment buildings across various governorates.

In response to these issues, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef issued instructions to address these violations promptly. This directive led to ongoing campaigns aimed at removing illegal constructions and mitigating their impact on infrastructure. Despite initial efforts to cut off power to these units, many violations persisted due to insufficient follow-up and enforcement in areas like Farwaniya and Hawalli. Authorities reaffirmed the state’s commitment to safeguarding public services from exploitation and abuse, ensuring that those responsible for unauthorized constructions face legal consequences. The focus is on curbing the influence of profiteers who have exploited regulatory loopholes for personal gain, at the expense of infrastructure stability and public safety.

The Ministry of Information has urged the media and the press to abstain from publishing rumors and false information. The assistant undersecretary for the press, publishing and printing at the ministry, Lafi Al-Subaiee, called on all media outlets to adhere to professional norms and remain keen on credibility and national interests.

Some visual, readable and electronic outlets have recently broadcast false news about some measures taken by ministries and government departments, he said, indicating that legal action could be taken against such offenses. The offenders will be submitted, without warning, to the information offenses committee to take legal action.