The Food and Nutrition Public Authority confirmed that the oat products in Kuwait from the brand (Quaker) have all been examined and are suitable for human consumption and free of salmonella bacteria.

The authority explained in a press release today, Friday, that the US Food and Drug Administration’s warning regarding the possibility of contamination of US-produced Quaker brand oat products with Salmonella bacteria relates to products that carry expiration dates before January 9, March 12, June 3, August 2, or August 1. September or October 1, 2024.

The Food and Nutrition Authority indicated that the same batch numbers were not imported into the State of Kuwait, stressing that the products of the same brand present in the markets have all been examined and are suitable for human consumption (KUNA)

Kerala reported three COVID-19 fatalities and 300 new cases on Wednesday. Especially in Bengaluru, the state capital, the situation in neighboring Karnataka is growing alarming as cases are expected to surpass 100. Bengaluru authorities have sent 17 samples for genome sequencing in order to confirm the presence of the JN.1 variant, with results expected in five days.

In the last 20 days, Bengaluru has reported 42 positive COVID cases, with three deaths. All individuals, however, had other critical health conditions, according to sources. Authorities are increasingly concerned about the evolving situation, especially with the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.

During the last 24 hours, the Department of Health and Family Welfare reported 20 new positive COVID-19 cases and two deaths. The total active patients stand at 92, with 72 isolated at home, 20 hospitalized, and seven in the ICU. The positivity rate is 2.47%, and the case fatality rate is 10%.

In the past 24 hours, the federal Health Ministry reported 358 new COVID cases nationwide, including 300 in Kerala. Six deaths, including three in Kerala, were recorded during this period. The country has 2,669 active cases, with a spike attributed to the JN.1 variant.

The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya stressed the importance of alertness and preparedness against new strains of the COVID-19 virus. He urged states to increase surveillance and ensure an adequate stock of medical supplies.

World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the evolving nature of the virus and encouraged member states to continue strong surveillance following the surge and new JN.1 variant. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO chief scientist, cautioned against dismissing COVID as a common cold, emphasizing potential long-term effects.

Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National Indian Medical Association's Covid Task Force, expressed concern about the JN.1 variant's marked differences. He recommended wearing masks in specific situations and advised vulnerable populations to use pulse oximeters.

According to Dr. Mandaviya, states must enhance surveillance and maintain adequate medical supplies to prevent the spread of new strains of the virus.

Investments in financial derivatives by local banks experienced a decline over the initial 10 months of 2023, decreasing by 15.1% to 1.965 billion dinars. This contrasts with December 2022’s 12.951 billion dinars, marking a decline according to data from the Central Bank of Kuwait in October. On an annual basis, these investments increased by 10.3%, reaching 1.03 billion dinars, compared to 9.956 billion dinars in October 2022. However, a monthly increase of 7.8%, approximately 796.9 million dinars, was observed from the end of September, when the total was 10.1 billion dinars.

The trajectory of bank investments in financial derivatives fluctuated throughout 2023. Decreasing from 12.951 billion dinars in December 2022 to 10.654 billion dinars in January, it rose in February to 10.934 billion dinars. Yet, it declined to 10.176 billion in March, reaching 10 billion in April, 9.836 billion in May, and 9.725 billion in June. Subsequently, it increased to 10.304 billion dinars in July, only to decrease again in August to 10 billion dinars and reach 10.1 billion in September. Financial derivatives encompass diverse investment instruments derived from the value of financial or other assets (such as stocks, bonds, real estate, currencies, and commodities). These instruments include futures contracts, options contracts, and more. Futures contracts involve agreements to buy or sell assets at an agreed-upon price on a future date.

Options contracts, on the other hand, grant one party the right (but not the obligation) to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price on a future date, with payment of a premium. Several Kuwaiti banks have previously obtained approval from the Central Bank of Kuwait to establish special purpose companies in the Cayman Islands, specifically for dealing in financial derivatives contracts. Regulatory authorities, including the Central Bank of Kuwait, the Capital Markets Authority, and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, have collaborated to create a regulatory framework for derivatives trading.

Notably, a Capital Markets Authority decision in October 2021 mandated companies involved in financial derivatives to regularize their status, with oversight limited to derivatives traded in Kuwait. As part of Kuwait’s efforts to upgrade its market from “emerging” to “advanced emerging” in the “FTSE Russell” index, the Capital Markets Authority is implementing a strategy to develop and enhance the market’s appeal to investors. This involves expanding the offering of financial products and services, including listing and trading platforms for bonds, instruments, exchange-traded funds, financial derivatives, and repurchase contracts. These initiatives align with Kuwait’s ambition to become a regional financial and commercial center, competing with other Gulf markets, and attract both foreign and local investors.

Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi congratulated His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on becoming Kuwait's Amir.

"Greetings and congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on his appointment as Kuwait's Amir. Modi said in a tweet on X platform that he is confident that the Indian community in Kuwait will continue to flourish in the coming years.

New Coronavirus variant JN.1 has emerged, causing heightened concerns among health authorities, experts, and the general public. This new subvariant of COVID-19, JN.1, is a descendant of BA.2.86, and its detection has contributed to a surge in India’s active caseload, reaching 1,828 on Monday. Kerala reported one death associated with the JN.1 subvariant, prompting the central government to issue an advisory urging state governments to strengthen health measures.

JN.1 Covid subvariant was first identified in Luxembourg and is derived from the Pirola variant (BA.2.86), itself derived from the Omicron subvariant. It has a number of unique mutations, especially in the spike protein, which may increase its infectious potential and immune-evading properties.

There are a number of symptoms associated with the JN.1 variant, including fever, runny nose, sore throat, and headache. Fortunately, most patients experience mild upper respiratory symptoms that typically improve within four to five days.

A subvariant of JN.1 has been detected in Kerala, India. A 79-year-old woman tested positive in an RT-PCR test on November 18, exhibiting mild symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) and subsequently recovering from Covid-19. Over 90% of Covid cases in India are mild and are managed at home.

In Singapore, an Indian traveler was identified with the JN.1 subvariant. This individual, hailing from Tamil Nadu’s Tiruchirapalli district, had traveled to Singapore on October 25.

Rajeev Jayadevan, co-chairman of the National Indian Medical Association Covid Task Force, characterizes JN.1 as a severely immune-evasive and fast-spreading variant. Its ability to infect individuals with prior COVID-19 infections and those vaccinated raises concerns about its potential impact.

The India SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), responsible for sequencing and monitoring new COVID-19 variants, conducted surveillance in Kerala.

The Karnataka government has ruled out the need to restrict movement on the border for now, assuring that all precautionary measures have been implemented. Currently, Karnataka reports 58 active cases, with 11 hospitalized and one Covid-related death with additional comorbidities.

It was first detected in September 2023 in the United States, underlining the global nature of the variant and the need for heightened vigilance.

A medical check appointment for expatriate workers scheduled for December 17, 18 & 19 has been rescheduled for December 20th, 21st and 24th by the Ministry of Health.

On December 17, 18 and 19, the medical test was cancelled due to the public closure following the sad death of late Amir HH Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah.

MoH has announced that those who received appointments on these dates should visit the center on 20th, 21st, and 24th, respectively.

Indian Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban Development, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, has arrived in Kuwait to extend condolences and pay homage to the leadership of Kuwait on behalf of the Government of India following the passing of the late Amir, HH Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

The Government of India has declared a State mourning across the country on December 17 as a gesture of respect for the departed leader.

In the wake of the demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Kuwait mourns the loss of a visionary leader who steered the country towards progress and prosperity. Under the late Amir's leadership, India and Kuwait maintained close and friendly relations. His unwavering commitment played a crucial role in guiding and enhancing bilateral engagements for the mutual benefit of both nations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized in a press statement that the significant Indian expatriate community in Kuwait will deeply feel the absence of his leadership and compassionate care.

"Deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. We convey our deepest condolences to the Royal family, the leadership and the people of Kuwait."

In a gesture of collective mourning, commercial complexes across Kuwait have announced the closure of their doors starting today, Saturday, and continuing until the day after tomorrow, Monday. This solemn decision comes following the passing of the revered Amir, His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God Almighty rest his soul in peace.

Various commercial complexes shared statements on their social media platforms, expressing condolences and solidarity with the nation during this period of grief. The administrations have communicated that regular business operations will resume from next Tuesday onward.

In honor of the late Amir of the State of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Nawaf AI-Ahmad Al-Jaber AI-Sabah, who passed away on December 16, 2023, India has designated December 17, 2023, as a day of national mourning. This solemn occasion will be acknowledged throughout India and at all Indian high commissions, embassies, and consulates worldwide.

As a gesture of respect, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all Government of India buildings across the country, as well as at Indian high commissions, embassies, consulates, and India Houses globally. In observance of this day, all official entertainment activities are suspended on December 17, 2023.

The Embassy of India in Kuwait will mark the occasion by lowering the Indian national flag to half-mast on December 17, 2023. Additionally, all officials of the Mission will observe two minutes of silence at 12:30 PM on the same day.

A heartfelt appeal is extended to all Indian nationals in Kuwait to participate in this tribute by observing two minutes of silence at 12:30 PM on December 17, 2023. This collective act of remembrance joins 1.4 billion brothers and sisters in India who are partaking in a day of mourning to pay homage to the departed leader.

Introduction to the New Law Kuwait is set to introduce a transformative residency law in early 2024. This law will notably extend the visit visa duration for expatriates, a significant change from the existing one-month limit.

Extended Visa Duration and Renewal Under the new regulations, expats can enjoy a three-month stay on a visit visa. This can be renewed subject to the Interior Minister's approval, offering more flexibility for international visitors.

Stringent Penalties for Residency Violations The law takes a strict stance against residency violations. Offenders face severe consequences, including imprisonment for up to a year and fines ranging between KD 1,000 to KD 2,000.

Increased Fines for Delayed Compliance Daily fines for failing to adhere to residency rules are set at KD 2. The law also introduces increased fines for late registration of newborns, emphasizing timely compliance.

Regulations for Employment Violations The law enforces a KD 3,000 fine for expatriates working for non-sponsor employers. This aims to regulate the labor market and ensure adherence to employment guidelines.

Conclusion Kuwait's 2024 residency law aims to streamline residency procedures while enforcing stricter compliance. These changes reflect Kuwait's commitment to maintaining a structured and law-abiding environment for expatriates.

The proposed changes are anticipated to take effect at the beginning of 2024, ushering in a new era in Kuwait's residency regulations.

In a bid to advance the digital transformation of the Interior Ministry, especially in enhancing public services, the Ministry of Interior is set to launch the transfer and renewal of vehicle ownership through the 'Sahel' application, effective January 1st, 2024.

As per Al-Seyassah daily, Lieutenant General Anwar Al-Barjas, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, has directed Mohammad Al-Otaibi, the Director of the Insurance Regulatory Unit, to take necessary measures for activating the electronic document system 'Bima' to facilitate this groundbreaking process.

Emphasizing the ministry's commitment to providing online services, including vehicle ownership renewal and transfer, Lieutenant General Al-Barjas highlighted discussions held during a meeting with representatives of the Kuwait Insurance Federation on November 27, 2023, at the Ministry of Interior's Information Systems General Department in Subhan.

The new residency law, scheduled to be discussed during the session on Tuesday, seeks to increase the penalty imposed on a foreigner who visits Kuwait and remains here in violation without residency, reports Al-Seyassah daily.

It stipulated that the penalty should be imprisonment for a period of one year and/or a fine ranging between KD 1,000 and KD 2,000. The duration of the visit has been extended to three months instead of one month, renewable with the approval of the Minister of Interior.

The new residency law stipulates this penalty in Article 27, which is concerned with foreigners who violate Article 11, which stipulates that “an expatriate who entered the State of Kuwait with the intention of visiting may remain for a period not exceeding three months. He must leave upon its expiry unless he obtains a residence permit from the Ministry of Interior.”

The new law increased the daily fine amount for the violation of residency law to KD 2, as well as the fine for the delayed registration of a newborn to KD 2 in the first month, and KD 4 for each day after that, in the event of a violation of Article 6, which stipulates that, “Every expatriate who has a child born in the State of Kuwait must submit, within four months from the date of birth, the newborn’s passport or travel document to the concerned authority in the Ministry of Interior in order to obtain a residence permit or a grace period to leave the State of Kuwait.” The same penalty applies to anyone who violates residency.

Article No. 31 stipulates in its fourth paragraph that an amount of KD 3,000 must be paid in the event that an expatriate works for other sponsors other than his own, in violation of the requirements of his residency.

A new WhatsApp feature - the ability to pin messages - has been unveiled by Meta. Using this feature, users can pin a particular message to the top of a chat, similar to the existing pinning functionality for chats in the home window. Android, iOS, and PC users are currently receiving the update.

It emphasizes that pinned messages can be used for both individual and group chats, allowing users to highlight messages that are important to them. By making it easier to find important information quickly, the primary goal is to enhance user efficiency. End-to-end encryption ensures that all message types, whether texts, polls, images, or emojis, can be pinned securely with WhatsApp.

Pin Messages Work as Follows:
While pinned chats remain visible in WhatsApp's home window, there is a timeframe limitation for pinning messages in the chat pin window. As described in the official blog post, users can choose between a 24 hour period, 7 days, or an extended 30 days when pinning. A banner will prompt users to select the desired duration. Administrators have the authority to determine who can pin messages in group chats - either everyone or just them.

How to pin a WhatsApp message on Android
1. Tap and hold on the desired message.
2. From the context menu that appears, tap More options.
3. Select Pin.
4. Choose the desired duration for the pinned message: 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days.
5. Tap Pin again to confirm.

Pin WhatsApp messages to your iPhone
1. Tap and hold on the message you want to pin.
2. Tap More options from the menu that appears.
3. Select Pin.
4. Choose the desired duration: 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days.
5. Tap Pin to confirm.

Pin WhatsApp messages on the web and desktop
1. Select the message you wish to pin.
2. Click the three dots icon.
3. Select Pin message from the dropdown menu.
4. Choose the duration for the pinned message: 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days.
5. Click Pin to confirm.

If a message is not manually unpinned, it will automatically unpin after the designated duration expires. In unpinning, the message is simply relocated from the banner at the top of the chat to its original position in the conversation, without affecting its content. The feature allows users to maintain a more organized and clutter-free chat experience by removing outdated messages while keeping vital information easily accessible.

Navigating sick leave procedures has become more streamlined in Kuwait with the MOH Q8Seha app. This digital tool, introduced by the Ministry of Health (MOH), simplifies applying for and managing sick leaves online. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can efficiently handle your health-related leaves with ease.

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Downloading the MOH Q8Seha App:

• Download for Android: Google Play
• Download for iOS: App Store

Detailed Steps for Using the MOH Q8Seha App:

1. Authenticate with Kuwait Mobile ID: Log into the Q8Seha app using your Kuwait Mobile ID. Ensure you approve the necessary notifications for successful authentication.
2. Accessing 'My Sick Leaves': Once logged in, navigate to the "My Sick Leaves" section.
3. Electronic Sick Leave Request: Click on "Electronic Sick Leave Request" in the 'My Sick Leaves' area.
4. Selecting Your Workplace: Choose from the listed workplaces or select "Others" if your workplace isn't listed.
5. Downloading Your Sick Leave: Once your sick leave is issued, download it by clicking on "Save File."
6. Reviewing Past Sick Leaves: To view past sick leaves, revisit "My Sick Leaves" and then choose "Clinics."

Additional Resources:

• For visual assistance and more details, refer to the MOH's guideline with screenshots here.

Benefits of Using the MOH Q8Seha App:

• Ease of Use: Simple, user-friendly interface.
• Convenience: Apply and manage sick leaves from any location.
• Efficiency: Quick processing of sick leave applications.
• Digital Record-Keeping: Easily accessible digital history of your sick leaves.

Conclusion: The MOH Q8Seha app is a vital tool for efficiently managing sick leaves in Kuwait. Following this guide, you can easily navigate the app and handle your health-related leaves with confidence.

Kuwait is currently facing a dramatic surge in onion prices as a direct consequence of India's recent export ban on this crucial commodity. The ban, which is set to last until March 31, 2024, was implemented by India to stabilize its own domestic market but has had far-reaching effects on neighboring countries, including Kuwait. The sudden scarcity of Indian onions, known for their quality and affordability, has left both consumers and retailers in Kuwait grappling with the challenge.

Onion, a staple ingredient in many local cuisines, has seen its prices soar, causing a significant impact on household budgets and the food industry. Retail industry executives in Kuwait have been actively seeking alternative sources to meet the growing demand.

Despite considering imports from countries like Turkey, Iran, China, and Egypt, there remains a gap in terms of the quality, quantity, and price that Indian onions offered. This gap has not only affected market dynamics but also consumer preferences, as Indian onions are highly favored in the Kuwaiti market.

The dramatic price increase is a direct response to the reduced supply from India, which, before the ban, was a major supplier of onions to Kuwait and other Gulf countries. The shortage has led to a spike in prices, creating a significant economic burden.

In spite of the recent strong wave of fog, Kuwait City remains one of the top ten cities with air pollution in the world, according to the international Air Quality Index (AQI). Al-Rai Daily reports that these standards differ from those of the Environment Public Authority and other local authorities.

An official Kuwaiti website dedicated to measuring air pollution revealed these alarming statistics. According to environmental activist Saad Al-Hayyan, the continued air pollution in Kuwait can be attributed to several factors. The lack of a clear plan and vision for increasing vegetation cover, which would help mitigate pollution, is one of them.

In addition, Al-Hayyan emphasizes the need for better coordination and connectivity regarding the examination of polluting cars and exhaust systems. This lack of regulation and enforcement contributes to the deteriorating air quality in the city. Al-Hayyan also identified the non-use of renewable energy sources as a contributing factor.

Using non-renewable energy increases pollution levels and exacerbates air quality problems. Additionally, waste dumps remaining open and the increasing desertification and sand encroachment in Kuwait further worsen the pollution situation. Al-Hayyan highlights that Kuwait is bound by international agreements and treaties on carbon emissions. Therefore, addressing these issues and taking necessary steps for environmental preservation is crucial for the country.

As announced by Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, three expat examination centers have extended their working hours: Ali Sabah Al-Salem suburb (Umm Al-Hayman), Al-Jahra, and Shuwaikh. The new hours are from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm during official working days from Sunday to Thursday.

In all expatriate labor examination centers, domestic workers can undergo examinations without prior appointments as long as their sponsor is present. For other applicants, securing a prior appointment is a prerequisite. This extension aims to alleviate pressure on the centers, ensuring accessible and convenient services for patients. The public health sector's efforts to address workflow challenges and implement effective solutions were commended by Dr. Al-Sanad.

In an official statement released today, the Civil Service Commission has declared Monday, January 1, as an official holiday in celebration of New Year 2024.

Additionally, the circular emphasizes that Sunday, December 31, will be observed as a designated day of rest.

In Kuwait, indemnity is a crucial aspect of employment benefits, and it's important to understand how it interacts with your financial obligations, such as loans. According to Kuwaiti banking and employment laws, the answer to your question largely depends on the terms of your loan agreement.

A standard loan agreement in Kuwait, as guided by the Central Bank of Kuwait and the Kuwait Banking Association, may include a clause that allows the bank to deduct outstanding loan amounts from your indemnity. This is often a security measure for the bank to ensure they can recover the loan in case of your employment termination.

For instance, such an agreement might state:

“As a guarantee to pay the loan interests, fees, and other dues, the borrower is required to arrange with their employer to have their monthly salary and indemnity transferred to the bank throughout the loan period.”

However, this situation can vary. If you find new employment and can assure the bank of your continued ability to repay the loan, they may not opt to deduct the full amount from your indemnity. Each case is unique and depends on the specifics of your loan agreement and your financial situation at the time of your employment termination.

It's advisable to review your loan agreement and discuss your situation with your bank to understand exactly how these rules apply to your case in Kuwait.