Category: BLOGS

As Pakistan advances in its quest for sustainable energy solutions, the demand for high-efficiency, reliable, and robust solar technology is more pressing than ever. Introducing the LONGi Hi-MO 7—an advanced solar module engineered to deliver performance and durability.

Why Hi-MO 7?

The Hi-MO 7 stands out as the best N-Type TOPCon module due to its extra passivated layer, which leads to better panel heat temperature management. This feature is precious in Pakistan’s hot climate, where efficient temperature control directly impacts performance and longevity.

Efficiency and Power Generation

The Hi-MO 7 features N-type silicon wafers combined with HPDC (High Performance and Hybrid Passivated Dual-junction Cell) technology, ensuring optimal light absorption from both the front and back of the panel. This dual absorption capability significantly enhances power output, making the Hi-MO 7 one of the most efficient solar panels available, with an efficiency rate of up to 23.1%.

Pakistan’s diverse climate, with varying sunlight intensity, poses no challenge for the Hi-MO 7. This module has been optimized to perform exceptionally well even in low-irradiation and high-temperature environments, common across the country.

Robust Design for Harsh Conditions

The Hi-MO 7’s dual-glass design enhances its durability, making it an ideal choice for the harsh and varied environmental conditions found across Pakistan—from the humid coastal regions to the arid deserts. This robust design also offers superior resistance to Potential Induced Degradation (PID), ensuring long-term performance and reliability.

With a power rating between 595W and 625W, the Hi-MO 7 delivers higher energy output, making it an excellent option for both residential and commercial installations.

LONGi’s Commitment to Quality and Innovation

As Pakistan continues to expand its renewable energy capacity, LONGi’s solar modules emerge as a pivotal solution. With advanced technology, superior efficiency, and robust design, these modules are an ideal choice for meeting the diverse energy needs of Pakistan, from urban residential projects to remote industrial applications. By choosing LONGi, Pakistan can power a brighter, more sustainable future.

Conclusion

As Pakistan continues to expand its renewable energy capacity, the LONGi’ssolar module emerges as a pivotal solution. Its advanced technology, superior efficiency, and robust design make it an ideal choice for the diverse energy needs of Pakistan, from urban residential projects to remote industrial applications. By choosing Hi-MO 7, Pakistan can power a brighter, more sustainable future.

 

 

 

On Eid-ul-Adha, Dubai buzzes with energy as both locals and tourists, join in the celebrations. Pakistanis will likely have 4-5 days of holidays, depending on the sighting of the moon, in the second week of June. So, it is a perfect time for families to enjoy a mini-getaway to Dubai as the city becomes vibrant with thrilling events, traditional dance shows, live music, and special performances in all the main public spaces, to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. Suitable for all ages, the city offers a range of activities for Pakistani families, from fun fairs and themed shows to interactive games. Indulge in special Eid discounts at world-class shopping malls and savor exquisite dining experiences featuring festive menus.

Entertainment for all

Pakistanis must head to resort on Dubai Islands Waterfront for an enjoyable time featuring activities from waterslides to spa treatments. Starting at Dhs1,995, this special offer is available exclusively during Eid Al Adha. It provides a perfect retreat, with children entertained by three kids clubs, a beachfront cinema, a lazy river, and a rope climbing course. Parents can unwind with Thai spa treatments or dine at one of the nine included restaurants.

Centara Mirage Beach Resort

Adventure Island is a fantastic indoor attraction in JBR, promising hours of excitement with laser tag and Pixel games. Bring some friends or family, and book a session to engage in a laser battle, dodging and weaving through the course to evade your opponents. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking thrilling activities.

Enjoy a day at LEGOLAND Waterpark on either Saturday or Sunday, where you can splash around in the pool, participate in sponge toss games, build LEGO brick castles, or join in water cup relay races. With exciting family activities available throughout the weekend, the park extends a special offer for UAE residents until the end of June. Take advantage of the offer to redeem four tickets for the price of three. Additionally, participants in group activities have the chance to win ice lollies and LEGO sets

Legoland

Tempting Hotel Deals

Prepare for a stylish escape with amazing getaway deals from leading hotels across the city. Whether your preference is for opulent resorts, or hip urban hotels, there’s an option to suit every budget. Choose from tempting hotel deals and enjoy world-class hospitality that draws Pakistanis.

Rove Hotels is offering a range of deals at their nine locations. Experience non-stop fun at Rove At The Park, where guests receive daily tickets to Dubai Parks and Resorts. This hotel also boasts the Middle East’s first Gaming Rooms, perfect for gaming enthusiasts. Additional perks include a 2 PM late check-out and same-day cancellation. In Downtown Dubai and City Walk, Rove Hotels presents fantastic Kids Go Free promotions at their three-star properties. Meanwhile, Address Hotels and Resorts offer a 25% discount on Best Available Rates, allowing you to fully indulge in relaxation. This exclusive offer ensures a 24-hour stay starting from the standard check-in time (3 PM onwards), giving you a full day to enjoy your accommodations.

Address Hotels & Resort

Similar offers can be found in Business Bay, where the Paramount Hotel Dubai provides Kids Go Free deals along with an in-house cinema. Radisson Blu Dubai Canal View and Radisson Blu Dubai Waterfront also feature attractive offers. On Sheikh Zayed Road, The H Dubai and Millennium Plaza Downtown Hotel have exceptional deals running for a perfect stay. Experience unparalleled hospitality and incredible savings with these exclusive deals across the city’s top hotels.

Paramount Hotel

Dine out

Savor a full set menu for as little as Dhs109 at select Dubai Creek Resort restaurants while enjoying views of the creek’s shimmering waters. Throughout June, the resort offers special discounts at all its dining venues. Make the most of Eid Al Adha with a set menu at Twiggy, featuring kid-friendly meals, and beloved childhood classics. There is a specially designated play area that ensures children have a memorable day filled with engaging activities.

Twiggy

For a more budget-friendly option, dine at Boardwalk. The renowned restaurant showcases an impressive fresh seafood display, evoking the atmosphere of a Mediterranean market. With dishes like steak frites and grilled salmon, indulge yourself over the long weekend with an affordable meal. What’s more, children are treated to an ice cream and a drink, all for just AED 50.

Tucked within a dense Ghaf Tree forest in Aventura Parks, The Ghafé Restaurant offers homemade plant-based ice cream, freshly brewed coffee, and classic American-style burgers, all while you enjoy the lush surroundings. Even though the rope and zip-line courses are closed until September, various indoor camps and team-building activities are still available, allowing you to enjoy this charming eatery to the fullest.

Celebrate Father’s Day in Saudi: The Perfect Destination for this Special Occasion

This Father’s Day, treat your dad to some of the most unique experiences Saudi has to offer. A fascinating destination, Saudi boasts a diverse array of activities tailored to every dad’s interests. From cultural attractions and adventure-filled amusement parks to outdoor recreation options, luxurious stays, and shopping malls, there’s something special for every dad to enjoy.

Elevate the occasion with a luxury stay

Luxury hotels in Saudi are the pinnacle of opulence, offering travelers lavish accommodations and world-class amenities, perfect for a Father’s Day celebration.

The Nujuma, Ritz-Carlton Reserve is situated on a pristine set of private islands. Recently opened, it is the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, nestled within the captivating Blue Hole cluster of islands, where pristine coral reefs thrive beneath the surface and the celestial canopy above paints an endless tapestry of stars.

St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Six Senses Southern Dunes: Experience unparalleled luxury at these newly opened resorts, with more luxurious accommodations set to grace the Red Sea coast in the coming years.

Habitas AlUla: Time out after a day of adventure at sustainable retreat Habitas AlUla, home to Thuraya Wellness, a secluded heaven created to enhance well-being and restore balance. Relax with sunrise yoga, private fitness sessions or treatments from the resident physiotherapist.

The Jeddah EDITION:  Situated along the Jeddah Corniche, adjacent to the Yacht Club & Marina and the F1 racetrack, this hotel offers unparalleled convenience with easy access to Jeddah’s City Center and the Red Sea Mall. Featuring 63 rooms, including 11 suites, the newly opened hotel boasts a signature restaurant, a cozy lobby lounge, an intimate bar, a rooftop terrace, and a refreshing pool.

An outdoor adventure with the wildlife in Aseer

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Aseer, the premier destination for nature lovers. At 3,000 meters, perched on the side of Saudi’s highest mountain, Soudah is the unofficial outdoor adventure capital of Saudi and part of the vast Aseer National Park. Its network of hiking routes, lush greenery, cool mountain air, wild nature and mist-cloaked valleys make for the perfect Father’s Day getaway. Whether your dad prefers hiking, paragliding, cycling, or kayaking, there’s endless excitement and adrenaline-pumping activities in this breathtaking region.

For nature-loving dads, the Jurf Raydah Reserve nestled within Sarawat Mountains is a must-visit. Amidst the fragrant juniper trees and exotic flora like cacti, wild olives, and banana trees, you will encounter fascinating wildlife, from Arabian woodpeckers to the rare and endangered Aseer magpie. You can also gift your father a thrilling experience by booking him a hike on a 250 year old trail in the Sawda Mountains.

The upcoming Aseer Season 2024 also has exciting events to offer which you can enjoy during your trip – from live music to delectable dining options and family-friendly activities and athletic championships.

Adventures in the Red Sea

Saudi is one of the best diving spots in the world with its pristine waters, white sandy beaches, an abundance of thriving coral reefs and some of the world’s coolest shipwrecks. The Red Sea is home to more than 90 pristine islands, dormant volcanoes, mountain canyons, and historical and cultural sites spanning 28,000 square kilometers, and boasts the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system.

For adventure-loving dads, the Red Sea is a paradise. Enjoy activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, guided dive excursions and snorkeling excursions, and more.

Spend a weekend at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC)

Perfect for families, KAEC is a haven that offers luxurious resorts, locally styled accommodations, and a range of water activities on stunning beaches for a perfect weekend getaway.

Book exciting adventures at Yam Beach in KAEC, with options to rent a banana boat, donut boat, or kayak, or enjoy a scenic stroll along the turquoise seashores. For dads who love to golf, indulge in a round or two at The Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, located in the luxurious district of Al Murooj within KAEC.

Book your dad a self-care day at the Four Seasons Spa

Tranquility and rejuvenation await at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. With more men prioritizing self-care and wellness, pamper your dad with a much-needed break from the daily grind, where they can choose from a range of luxurious treatments designed to soothe and revitalize, such as the all-time favorite traditional Moroccan Hammam ritual, or a hot stone massage to melt away tension provide deep relaxation.

Immerse in culture and history in Al Baha

Known as the jewel of the south, the enchanting Al Baha Province boasts dense forests, majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque valleys, all steeped in a history brimming with ancient traditions, which makes for a wonderful glamping or camping experience.

Discover the region’s vibrant culture and history at the Al Baha Museum, embark in an exhilarating hike along scenic trails in Shada Mountain Park, or wander through the charming narrow alleyways in Al Qala old town, where dad can browse through the local shops brimming with handicrafts, souvenirs, and aromatic spices.

Culinary delights and attractions in Al-Balad, Jeddah’s historic district
Better known as ‘Historic Jeddah’ or the Old Town, the Al Balad district of Jeddah is a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting buildings that date back to 7th century.

Treat your dad to the renowned seafood scene when in Jeddah. Nestled along its stunning coastal location, Jeddah boasts a rich seafood culture that is not to be missed. Indulge in the finest selection of freshly caught fish expertly prepared; from delicate filets to hearty seafood platters at Twina Obhur, or immerse in the elegance of Japanese coastal flavors for an unforgettable dining experience at Kuuru.

After a hearty meal, you can cool down from the summer heat in the captivating Fakieh Aquarium, the immersive Jeddah Open Air Museum, and the iconic King Fahd’s Fountain, which casts its enchanting spray along the waterfront.

Find dad the ideal gift or spend the day at one of Saudi’s many shopping destinations

Boulevard City: Treat dad to a day of excitement with thrilling activities and delicious cuisines at different food corners in Boulevard City, a one-stop entertainment and relaxation hub for families of all ages to enjoy. Besides fun zones and virtual reality game experiences for thrill seekers, fitness enthusiasts can also try their hand (or fist) at Mike Tyson’s Boxing Club.

Red Sea Mall: Nestled near the picturesque Waterfront Promenade along the Corniche, the Red Sea Mall stands as one of Jeddah’s premier shopping destinations. Pick out dad’s favorites within the vast array of international brands and entertainment options.

Jeddah Boulevard: For the modern dad who appreciates a contemporary shopping experience amidst sleek architecture, Jeddah Boulevard offers a delightful mix of retail therapy and culinary delights.

Mall of Arabia: Make Father’s Day a family affair at the Mall of Arabia, which offers many entertainment options. With attractions like the beloved Kidzania indoor game village, both kids and dads can have a blast.

It has never been easier, smoother, and safer to visit Saudi – visa initiatives have been continuously developed, with the eVisa program now including 66 countries, reduction of the total price of the eVisa by 20%, as well as the free 96-hour Stopover Visa. To learn more about Saudi and experiencing all the unique experiences with your family, visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/en for more information. Plan your unforgettable trip today!

Celebrating Mother’s Day in Saudi offers a unique blend of luxury, history, and cultural experiences that promises to make this special day truly memorable. From thrilling hot air balloon rides to exploring ancient heritage sites, Saudi has something for every kind of traveler, including those from Pakistan.

Saudi, renowned for its rich history and evolving tourist attractions, is emerging as a top choice for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. This Mother’s Day, Saudi presents an array of options that cater to different interests and preferences, ensuring a delightful celebration for mothers and families alike.

A New Perspective: Take to the Skies in AlUla

For those seeking a truly extraordinary experience, a hot air balloon ride over AlUla offers breathtaking views of Saudi’s stunning landscape. Departing from AlUla, a UNESCO World Heritage site, passengers can marvel at the mesmerizing vistas of rocky outcrops and valleys below. This open-air museum, spanning over 200,000 years of human history, offers a unique glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s extraordinary heritage.

History & Heritage: Explore the Old Town of Al Balad

In the heart of Jeddah lies Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting architectural wonders dating back to the 7th century. The district’s magnificent buildings and bustling streets transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage. From shopping for spices and textiles to exploring traditional markets and historical landmarks, Al Balad promises an immersive experience for all.

Book into Spa Bliss: Six Senses Southern Dunes, the Red Sea Coast

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Six Senses Southern Dunes Spa offers the ultimate retreat amidst the serene dunes of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. Inspired by the region’s natural beauty, the spa’s tranquil ambiance and Arabian wellness traditions provide a blissful escape for mothers in need of pampering.

Luxury at its Finest: Discover Shopping & Dining at VIA Riyadh

VIA Riyadh stands as a beacon of luxury, offering an unparalleled shopping and dining experience steeped in Saudi tradition. From prestigious designer boutiques to world-class restaurants serving cuisines from around the globe, VIA Riyadh caters to every taste and preference. After a day of shopping, families can unwind at the Renaissance cinema, indulging in lavish comfort and exclusive entertainment.

A Perspective from Pakistan

For Pakistani travelers, Saudi offers not only a captivating destination but also a sense of familiarity and cultural affinity. With an increasing number of visa initiatives, including the eVisa program and the free 96-hour Stopover Visa, visiting Saudi has never been more accessible for Pakistani tourists. Whether it’s exploring historical sites, indulging in luxury shopping, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Saudi invites families from Pakistan to celebrate Mother’s Day in style.

As Saudi continues to unveil its treasures to the world, it remains a compelling destination for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences and cherished memories with their loved ones. This Mother’s Day, let Saudi be the backdrop for a celebration filled with adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

As summer gets closer, we start to think about spending lazy days by the pool. Whether you imagine a peaceful relaxing spot or a fun place to hang out with friends and family, the perfect pool can make the backyard feel like a fancy vacation spot.

So picking the right person to build the pool is a crucial. Here is a simple guide to help you choose the best pool builder. Here, we will discuss the factors you need to look for while building a pool in Pakistan.

Know What You Want

Before hunting for a pool builder, please make your mind clear about what exactly you want. It’s essential to clarify your preferences. Think about things, such as how big your pool should be, what shape it should be in, and any extras like waterfalls or lights.

While planning all these things, please keep the budget in mind. A clear image of what you want helps you talk better with builders and ensure they get what you are after.

Do Your Research

Once you have decided to build the pool and have the vision, it’s time to start the research. Start your hunt for a pool builder by getting suggestions from neighbors, friends, and family. Look for anyone who has recently installed the pool.

Also, look for the reviews and ratings on various platforms. It will give you an idea about the professionalism of the builders. So, if you are going for a pool builder in a specific area, search for a builder who operate in that area on Google by putting the area name after the query in the search bar.

Check License

When picking the pool builder in Karachi or in other cities, check their insurances and licenses. So why is this vital? It ensures all your needs and provides you peace of mind knowing that you are working with experts. It shows that builder you have picked offer you safety and quality.

Review Portfolios

Once you have checked their credentials, look at their portfolios as well. It will show you whether they can execute what you have in mind or not. Reviewing portfolios is essential and you must recognize their role in building the pool.

Get Feedback

Get the feedback of the pool builders from his previous clients, if possible. At least read the testimonials and reviews on different websites.

You may ask the pool builders for the names of his previous clients and then ask those people about their experience with these builders. Did they built what you have told them? What type of material they use? Do they follow the timelines or not? Do they offer quality at affordable budget? This information, straight from the customers, can give you a good idea of what it’s like to work with that builder.

Get Multiple Quotes

It is the most important thing when it comes to building a pool. Most of you do not look for multiple quotes. It is the biggest mistake. Ask a few different pool builders for quotes. Ensure you get all the details about what is included in the price. Look closely at the breakdown of the costs and what services are covered. Be careful if one quote is much cheaper than the others are. The pool builder price matters a lot and sometimes some extra bucks saves a lot of money in future.

If you are looking for reliable swimming pool construction and maintenance services in Karachi, then Water Solutions is the name that you can trust. It covers all type of pool plumbing and electrical work. Also, they provide swimming pool equipment from high-end names.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can easily find the best pool builder in your area. Look for the reviews and get the quotes from different builders to get a better idea. So dive in and start building the backyard oasis of your dreams!

By Syeda Bano                                                

Huawei Cloud was centre stage at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 in Barcelona as the various teams presented product and solution launches, Go Cloud Grow Global forum, and Cloud Native Elite Club (CNEC) seminar and innovative products and real-world cases covering Pangu models, GaussDB, data-AI convergence, virtual human, and software development. As AI reshapes the world, Huawei remains at the forefront of technology to accelerate intelligence across industries and sectors.

Announcing ten cutting-edge innovations, Huawei also highlighted the integration of cloud native and AI technologies as a strategy to accelerate the global implementation and advancement of AI. At the Summit, Bruno Zhang, Huawei Cloud CTO, unveiled the Global Leap Program by Cloud Native Elite Club (CNEC). With the theme “Leap with Cloud Native × AI”, this program will facilitate extensive technical exchanges, in-depth discussions, and best practice showcases.

Users across the globe are seeking resilient, adaptive and comprehensive AI solutions. Jacqueline Shi, President of Huawei Cloud Global Marketing and Sales Service, shared the Huawei Cloud journey and the fast growth and innovations in cutting edge technologies, that were on display at the Huawei Cloud Summit.

Shi said, “Huawei Cloud hopes to build an open ecosystem, an open platform so all our customers and partners can enjoy not only cloud services, but also new opportunities, new businesses. In the last two years, we redefined our framework of ecosystem, which is “Go Cloud, Grow Cloud”, we hope to enable more partners, especially new developers and startups to grow with us. We hope to work closely with all partners to create scenario based solutions for vertical industries.”

The Huawei Cloud, Koo Verse, has 85 AZs in 30 Regions across over 170 countries and regions, with the global cloud infrastructure covering compute, storage, networking, and security pushes latency down to 50 ms. Coupled with a distributed QingTian architecture built on a high-speed interconnect bus (Unified Bus), which allows heterogeneous, peer-to-peer, full-mesh computing.

Huawei’s hyperscale and stable, AI Cloud Service supports trillion-parameter model training, and training jobs can run uninterrupted on a cluster over thousands of cards for 30 days, 90% of the time while AI-native storage has 220 TB ultra-large bandwidth and ultra-low latency down to the microsecond, the SFS Turbo cache service for high throughput and concurrency of tens of millions IOPS enables warm-up of 1 billion data records in just 5 hours, not 100.

With more than 120 security and compliance certifications, Huawei Cloud services are highly secure and compliant to strictest global standards. The E2E security ensures robust, secure, and compliant models and applications, while the GaussDB is a next-generation database – the world’s first AI-native database, with enterprise-class distributed architecture. For security, it is certified CC EAL4+, the highest level in the industry.  database.

Dr. Nikos Ntarmos, Director of Huawei Central Software Institute’s Database Lab, emphasized that GaussDB is a result of Huawei’s extensive experience in databases spanning over 20 years. Additionally, with over 30 years of proven enterprise services, GaussDB is the better choice for global users, especially for essential transaction and data processing needs.

The explosion of foundation models means “Data+AI” is now “Data4AI and AI4Data”. Huawei Cloud LakeFormation unifies data lake from multiple lakes or warehouses so one copy of data is shared among multiple data analytics engines and AI engines without data migration. Three collaborative pipelines — DataArts, ModelArts, and CodeArts — then orchestrate and schedule data and AI workflows. They drive online model training and inference with real-time data. The AI4Data engine makes data governance more intelligent, from data integration, development, to quality and asset management.

In this AIGC and 3D Internet era, Huawei Cloud has built a media infrastructure of efficiency, experience, and evolution. Jamy Lyu, President of Huawei Cloud Media Services, shared how Huawei Cloud has innovated and integrated media services into a wide range of industry-tailored solutions. For efficiency, Huawei Cloud MetaStudio, the content production pipeline that include Workspace and AIGC-based virtual humans, generates content more quickly and better. For experience, Huawei Cloud Live, Low Latency Live, and SparkRTC empower more seamless live experiences. For evolution, Huawei Cloud provides AIGC and 3D space services with real-time user interaction. All these combine to boost the business and user experience to the next level.

Enterprises use and manage resources better on Huawei Cloud thanks to unified account, identity, permissions, network, compliance, and cost management. Now multi-tenancy and collaboration are seamless among personnel, finance, resources, permissions, and security compliance. What is more, all the Pangu model capabilities and services can work in public cloud, dedicated cloud, or hybrid cloud so, customers can build and run dedicated AI platform and foundation models in their existing data centers using Huawei Cloud Stack, a hybrid cloud solution.

Jim Lu, President of the European Region and Senior Vice President of Huawei, stated in his speech that, “Intelligence will open up new opportunities for Europe in the next decade. We hope to use ICT to help global customers and partners unlock the full potential of intelligence. Together with so many friends in Europe, we believe we can better support the digital and intelligent transformation of industries.”

Huawei’s foundation models redefine production, interaction, service paradigms, and business models for traditional applications, making AI a new engine for the growth of cloud computing. While the potential is vast, implementing AI in line with business objectives requires systematic innovation. Huawei Cloud CTO Bruno Zhang said that “Huawei Cloud will help you with two strategies. AI for Cloud uses AI and foundation models to elevate your experience. They revolutionize software development, digital content production, and more. Cloud for AI makes AI adoption seamless and efficient. Architectural innovation, AI-native storage, and data-AI convergence empower you to train and use AI like never before.”

William Fang, Chief Product Officer at Huawei Cloud, emphasized the increasing demands on various aspects of cloud infrastructure due to the rapid advancement of AI and foundation models. Customers want collaborative heterogeneous computing architecture, cloud native compute with superlative performance, mass data storage, security compliance, lean governance, and flexible deployment. As foundation models scale into wider use, cloud computing nurtures the innovation and development of AI models. It is only by integrating AI with cloud that progress in intelligence is possible. Huawei Cloud remains committed to making this integration a success, and in turn fulfilling customer demand.

 

Current global practices to combat the devastating impact of tobacco-related deaths have fallen short, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating an annual toll of 8.5 million deaths, a number expected to rise to 10 million in the next five years.

Against this backdrop, a study titled ‘Integrating Harm Reduction into Tobacco Control’ has emerged. This study delves into the specific challenges faced by four Low Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, and South Africa, where 350,000 lives are prematurely lost each year due to tobacco use.

In these countries, a noticeable gender gap in smoking rates contributes to disparities in life expectancy, worsened by the prevalent use of toxic products, particularly in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Smoking-related diseases consistently rank among the leading causes of death in these nations.

The report emphasizes the potential benefits of adopting a harm reduction approach.  It also underscores the time-sensitive nature of addressing tobacco-related diseases, highlighting that the full benefits of harm reduction takes decades to manifest.

The study also champions the adoption of THR products like e-cigarettes, oral nicotine pouches, snus, and heated tobacco products. Pakistan could save 1,200,000 lives in the next four decades, while Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, and South Africa could collectively prevent 1.405 million premature deaths.

The potential decline in smoking-related deaths, especially in LMICs like Pakistan, is substantial, with the spectrum of less harmful alternatives reducing toxic exposures by 80% and decreasing premature deaths by 70%.

The study emphasizes the critical role of governments in regulating alternative products proportionate to their health risks. Additionally, it advocates providing information about the less harmful impact of alternative products to adult tobacco users.

This comprehensive approach, involving government regulation, private sector innovation, and informed public awareness, is crucial to maximizing the potential benefits of harm reduction strategies.

As harm reduction strategies in tobacco control gain momentum globally, the study underscores its significance for LMICs, where over 1 billion people reside, facing a lack of awareness and poor detection of tobacco-related diseases. The transformative impact of adopting tobacco harm reduction strategies, like many developed countries such as the UK, US and Japan, and the declining use of combustibles is powerful evidence that this approach could save millions of lives in LMICs provided governments, WHO, and physicians play their roles in advocating for such policies and ensuring wider accessibility to these less harmful alternatives.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Engro Fertilizers, Pakistan’s premier seed-to-harvest solutions provider, achieved record urea production of 2.3 million tons in 2023 to support the Government’s efforts of ensuring affordable and abundant supplies for the farmers.

The Company was able to achieve this feat and continued to play a pivotal role towards enabling the food security of Pakistan, amidst the headwinds of tough macroeconomic conditions, imposition of a higher super tax and gas price hikes. Engro Fertilizers was additionally affected by steep Rupee devaluation as its 950,000 tons Base Plant is supplied gas under Petroleum Policy 2012 pricing, which is dollar-pegged due to its linkage with crude oil rate.

According to the latest annual results, Engro Fertilizers urea production surged by 18.3 percent compared to the year 2022 (1.95 million tons) due to improved operational performance of both EnVen and Base Plants. Consequently, the Company’s urea sales witnessed an uptick by 20.3 percent to reach 2.32 million tons, while its market share also increased to 35 percent.

“The local fertilizer industry has ensured that farmers continue to benefit from lower domestic urea prices. The Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of urea stood at PKR 3,596/bag at year end, at a discount of 40 percent to international prices. This delta constitutes a contribution of approximately PKR 330 billion per annum towards farmer income in Pakistan,” said a Company statement. The industry is also engaging dealers to support Government’s initiatives to curb urea hoarding for market price manipulation, bolstering crop productivity, and farmer profitability.

In 2023, the robust domestic urea manufacturing industry enabled import substitution to the tune of USD 2.3 billion, including Engro Fertilizers’ share of USD 835 million. Further, in 2023, the Company contributed nearly PKR 34.7 billion towards the national exchequer by way of Government taxes, duties, and levies, compared to PKR 11.6 billion last year.

On a consolidated basis, Engro Fertilizers posted a profit after tax of PKR 26.2 billion with earnings per share (EPS) of PKR 19.61 in 2023, mainly on the back of increased production from long-term reliability projects, cost optimization, efficient working capital management and higher interest income.

To sustain domestic urea production levels and safeguard the food security of Pakistan, Engro Fertilizers and other major fertilizer manufacturers are investing heavily in Gas Pressure Enhancement Facilities (PEF) project. The expected share of Engro Fertilizers’ capital expenditure in this project is over USD 100 million.

 

The way people consume tobacco has been through several changes over the decades with the emergence of various smokeless tobacco alternatives gaining attention. These alternatives, which include products like snus, chewing tobacco, nicotine pouches and heated tobacco products, offer individuals an alternative way to satisfy their nicotine cravings while potentially reducing the associated health risks.

One of the key motivations behind the exploration of these alternatives lies in their potential to reduce health risks when compared to combustible cigarettes. Unlike traditional cigarettes, which involve the combustion of tobacco and the generation of harmful smoke, smokeless alternatives eliminate the need for combustion. This reduction in harmful smoke exposure can result in a decreased risk of lung cancer, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular issues commonly associated with smoking.

The use of smokeless tobacco has deep historical roots, spanning different cultures and regions. Chewing tobacco, for instance, has been used by indigenous communities for centuries. It was a significant practice among Native American tribes long before tobacco products became commercialized. Similarly, snus, a moist tobacco product placed under the upper lip, has a rich history in Scandinavia, where it is a cultural tradition enjoyed by many. These traditions highlight that smokeless tobacco alternatives have been an integral part of societies across the globe.

An increasingly shared viewpoint suggests that adult smokers who fully transition to tobacco- or nicotine-containing products designed not to burn tobacco might face a lower risk of harm compared to persisting with traditional smoking.

According to studies, smokeless tobacco products are generally believed to pose a lower risk profile than combustible cigarettes. For instance, research indicates that snus has been associated with lower risks of lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases due to its absence of combustion. These findings, along with ongoing studies, underscore the potential harm reduction that these alternatives can offer to individuals seeking nicotine satisfaction without the detrimental effects of smoking.

In the first-ever clinical trial of fourth-generation electronic cigarettes, researchers found that adults who switched to e-cigarettes had lower levels of a major carcinogen compared to smokers who continued using combustible cigarettes.

One notable example of a country that has adopted a progressive stance on harm reduction is the United Kingdom (UK). In recent years, the UK has been at the forefront of promoting reduced-risk alternatives for smokers. The smoking rate in the UK has been steadily declining over the years, reaching to an all-time low of 13.3% in 2021.  These statistics highlight the consistent efforts and successful strategies implemented in the UK to combat smoking, resulting in a significant decline in the overall smoking rate over the years. Public health agencies, such as Public Health England, have recognized the potential of e-cigarettes to help smokers quit or reduce their tobacco consumption significantly.

As Pakistan considers the regulation of smokeless alternatives, it’s imperative to weigh the potential benefits against any perceived challenges. By learning from international experiences and tailoring regulations to fit the local context, Pakistan has the opportunity to shape its tobacco landscape in a way that supports public health goals. 

By M.Yasir

In the first study on political advertising, Allama Iqbal Open University researchers analyzed the appeals, themes, and opponent attacks the leading political parties used.

According to the 2020 study, PPP used the content of its past performance together with themes such as roti (bread), kapra (clothes), and makan (home) in its political advertisements.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) used fear appeal, past performance, and sanctity of vote in addition to other mixed themes.

Besides employing the opponent attack strategy, PTI used its past performance, health, education, corruption, and hope appeal in its advertisements.

The study found that all three parties directed these appeals, themes, and opponent attacks using out-of-home advertising and the leading English and Urdu newspapers such as Dawn, The News, Daily Express, and Daily Nawa-i-Waqt.

The researchers recommended that the political parties focus more on presenting solutions to the problems confronted by the people while concentrating more on educating the people about the country’s fundamental issues instead of hoodwinking them through their exaggerated and unrealistic sloganeering.

In the aftermath of the study, Imran and the PTI led the nation towards economic disaster and were ousted by the Pakistan Democratic Movement. With a coalition of the opposition in charge, trying to salvage the issues of the previous leaders, PML-N and the PPP managed to work together without infighting.

This may be primarily attributed to Maryam Aurungzeb, who served as the Minister for Information and Broadcasting and gained exposure to more data points on how political narrative building has been digitally transformed globally.

Mirroring the lessons of the study, the latest welcome-back campaign from the PML-N is proactive instead of reactive. The campaign appears to put PML-N’s perspective forward, inviting everyone to the Jalsa.

“It’s a fresh take from this ages-old party, which usually operated on newspapers and TV journalists,” said Taimoor Niaz, a WPP media agency executive. “Now, it is taking on and embracing the digital world. PML-N has started to employ contemporary methods of political advertising and media buying. They’re listening and understanding to the voter using digital mediums and dashboards and modern tech – and responding accordingly with fresh narratives.”

Reasons behind shift

In the aftermath of PTI’s 2018 austerity measures, scores of rent-seeking broadcast media companies were forced to cut the fat. The media supply chain of Pakistan is dependent on government advertising, as revenues from private advertisers have stagnated.

With Geo, ARY, and HUM eating the lion’s share of the Rs. 40 billion spent on TV advertising, Pakistan’s 100+ TV channels need the government to sustain their rent-seeking operating model.

With further austerity measures in successive governments, broadcast media companies faced competition from telcos launching their own OTT apps and reaching audiences directly while monetizing on subscriptions and digital advertising. While the Rs. 80 billion available for advertising has remained the same, the share of digital within it has increased markedly.

The rise of OTT adoption, such as PTVFlix by Pakistan Television Corporation (PTVC), has meant media companies and their regulators have tapped into deeper content consumption insights hidden behind YouTube’s walled gardens.

Integrating these data points with sentiment analysis tools, media companies, and their regulators secured partnerships with Pakistan’s leading satellite teleport provider for comprehensive managed services for channels, OTT providers, and media monitors.

Couple this with industry research on the impactful resonance of clutter-breaking creatives in advertising, it’s not a mystery why the PML-N has shifted its positioning strategy.

“The colossal role of social media in spreading awareness cannot be underestimated, and the PML-N has capitalized on this powerful medium, focusing on using it for positive purposes while adhering to the party’s guidelines,” said Taher Altaf Khan, an advertising executive. “The party has consistently aimed to spread the message of PML-N to every citizen of Pakistan voluntarily, prioritizing authenticity over false news.”

He said that PML-N’s has evolved into a formidable force in the digital realm.

“What was once a party reliant on traditional advertising has now embraced the power of social media,” he said. “Their commitment to authenticity and spreading their message has won them a prominent place in the digital landscape.”

Media strategists paving the way

Maryam Aurangzeb, the former Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, stands at the forefront of this digital transformation. Khan said her strategic insight and leadership have been instrumental in ushering in a new era of digital engagement for the party.

Under her guidance, PML-N has excelled in tactical media buying, ensuring a dominant presence on Twitter panels and other digital platforms. This strategic move has amplified their message and consolidated their position as a formidable force in the online political arena.

It would appear that Maryam’s approach also includes hyper-targeted campaigns, ensuring the party’s message resonates with specific demographics. This precision in communication strategy has significantly enhanced the party’s engagement with its audience.

During her tenure, the party has secured innovative partnerships, including collaborations with non-traditional outreach channels for short-form videos. These have expanded PML-N’s reach, allowing the party to resonate with newer audiences and extend its influence beyond traditional boundaries.

PDM’s initiatives targeted towards Central Punjab had awareness campaigns being executed on Kuaishou’s Snack Video, a short video platform with 50%+ of its audience in Central Punjab, a region expected to be the hottest contested area in the upcoming elections.

“PML-N’s adoption of artificial intelligence tools for content generation has set a new benchmark in modernizing the party’s narrative distribution strategy, enhancing its digital presence,” said Khan. “Collaboration with prominent and micro-influencers has been a fundamental strategy to broaden the party’s reach, creating a ripple effect and extending the party’s message to diverse audiences and demographics.”

The diverse content strategies, from long-form videos to short snippets, have enriched the party’s digital narrative, making it more engaging and informative.

“Maryam’s strategies have also played a crucial role in presenting the finance ministry case with a lens of transparency and clarity, bridging the gap between the government and the public through data-driven and educated talking points,” said Khan.

Future Outlook

Just as PTI took the lead in 2013 and 2018 with a media strategy that broke new ground with digital media, the PML-N can unlearn its old ways and adopt new ones.

This reflects a global trend where political communication strategies are evolving to meet the demands of the digital age. Aurangzeb’s efforts are commendable and serve as a mirror to the changing face of political engagement worldwide.

For the PPP and PTI to resonate with new and existing voters, media strategists will have to study PML-N’s adaptability and learn how to track digital narratives that will play a central role in political strategy, in line with the guiding principles of senior leaders.