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Motorworld Expands Regional Presence with GAC Launches in Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands

Tortola Auto Group & Motorworld Management & Staff at GAC British Virgin Islands Launch (photo contributed)

SINT MAARTEN (COLE BAY) - Motorworld, the authorized regional distributor for GAC Motor in the Caribbean, proudly announces the successful introduction of the globally acclaimed automotive brand across two new territories: the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands (Tortola).

These dual launches mark a major milestone in Motorworld’s ongoing mission to expand GAC’s presence throughout the Caribbean, bringing world-class innovation, technology, and design to more drivers across the region.

In partnership with Arch Automotive, part of the Foster Group, GAC officially entered the Cayman Islands market on October 23, 2025, ushering in a new era of choice and sophistication for local motorists.

The Cayman launch introduced a diverse lineup of GAC vehicles, from the striking GS8 and GS3 Emzoom SUVs to the dynamic Empow sedan and all-electric Aion V SUV. Each model showcases GAC’s signature blend of intelligent engineering and modern luxury.

“Bringing GAC to the Cayman Islands represents a major step forward in the brand’s Caribbean expansion,” said Tariq Amjad, Managing Director of Motorworld. “We’re proud to partner with the Foster Group to deliver vehicles that redefine quality, comfort, and technology for the region’s discerning drivers.”

Just one week later, Tortola Auto Group (TAG) celebrated the official launch of GAC in the British Virgin Islands with a spectacular event at its Slaney Point showroom.

The evening brought together government officials, business leaders, and auto enthusiasts for the grand reveal of GAC’s flagship models: the GS3 Emzoom, GS4 Max, and GS8.

Guests enjoyed live demonstrations of GAC’s advanced features, including 360° HD cameras, intelligent safety systems, and customizable ambient lighting, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to innovation and design excellence.

“This launch marks the beginning of a movement,” said Shan Mohamed, Managing Director of Tortola Auto Group. “GAC has proven that it belongs among the world’s leading automotive names, and we are honoured to bring this standard of excellence to the British Virgin Islands.”

These rollouts in the Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands represent another step forward in Motorworld’s mission to strengthen its role as a trusted regional partner for global automakers.

“The launches we’ve seen this year are just the beginning,” added Amjad. “We’re committed to building lasting relationships, delivering first-class service, and shaping the future of transportation in the Caribbean.”

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A Heartwarming Success: Connecting Families through Nature and Storytelling

Author Gramey Browne and students of ASA No Kidding with our Kids Foundation - Reatreat Estate pupils & Community Afterschool Program at Asha Stevens Campus, Cay Hill.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Today’s book launch and storytelling morning at the Sint Maarten Library was a resounding success! Families filled the library with laughter, curiosity, and excitement as children’s author Gramey Brown brought to life the wonders of nature and the special bond between fathers and sons through his newly released books, “Mountain Trails: A Father and Son Nature Adventure” and “Ocean Waves: A Father and Son Beach Adventure.”

The event, themed “Connecting Children with Nature: A Path to Healthier Minds and Brighter Futures,” reminded everyone of the importance of outdoor exploration in nurturing healthy, creative, and resilient young minds. Through live readings and interactive storytelling, Brown inspired children to dream, explore, and appreciate the beauty of the world around them.

When asked about the inspiration behind his books, the author shared a heartfelt reflection: “I wrote these stories to connect fathers and sons; because for boys to become the men of the future that society needs, they must be inspired by the men of today. We as men, as fathers, have a responsibility to lead by example.”

This message deeply resonated with parents and caregivers, reinforcing the vital role of fathers and male mentors in shaping strong, compassionate, and responsible young men.

In addition to today’s successful launch, Gramey Brown also hosted several book talks and storytelling sessions as part of a soft launch earlier this week. These included engaging visits to the Community Afterschool Program in Cay Hill at the Asha Stevens School and sessions with the No Kidding with Our Kids Foundation at Retreat Estate (ASA).

Children at these sessions enthusiastically participated in age-appropriate listening activities and fun word search puzzles, all centered around the themes of adventure, family, and nature. Each participating school also received a special gift from the author — a wonderful gesture to encourage continued reading and connection beyond the event.

The Sint Maarten Library extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and supported this meaningful celebration. Today was not just about books, but about building connections, inspiring imagination, and fostering a love for reading and the great. Here’s to more stories, more exploration, and more moments that connect hearts across generations!

SXM LIBR grp of kids mon10

 

 

 

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Kingdom Taskforce for Children’s Rights Holds Successful Meeting in Aruba

Taskforce members, UNICEF the Netherlands, Taskforce Secretariat, and members Children’s Rights Commission Aruba

SINT MAARTEN/ARUBA - The Kingdom Taskforce for Children’s Rights recently held a successful meeting in Aruba, marking an important milestone in the ongoing collaboration to strengthen the protection and promotion of children’s rights throughout the Kingdom.

The meeting was chaired by Ms. Sacha Geerman of Aruba’s Ministry of Social Affairs, who currently serves as Chairwoman of the Kingdom Taskforce. This gathering was the first in-person meeting since the development and approval of the Strategic Framework, National Action Plans, and Monitoring Framework.

These documents were created with the assistance of UNICEF The Netherlands. For the first time in the Taskforce’s history they provide a structured and measurable approach to cooperation among the islands.

As strategic advisor to the Taskforce, UNICEF The Netherlands was also present during the meeting, when each island shared the results of an assignment highlighting different vulnerable situations children face within their local contexts.

Saba presented on the vulnerability of migrant children in education, Bonaire on youth crime, Curaçao on undocumented children, St. Eustatius on children with autism, St. Maarten on youth and crime, and Aruba on children with special needs.

The meeting also included discussions on inter-island residential care, Aruba’s parenting plan initiative, and the “Alleen jij bepaalt” (You get to decide) program on prevention and behavioral change. The Taskforce members were also allowed to experience Team-up: a program that provides psychosocial support to children facing vulnerable circumstances.

In her opening remarks, the Minister of Social Affairs, Elderly Care, and Addiction Care, Mrs. Mervin Wyatt-Ras, welcomed the Taskforce members with an inspiring speech that emphasized the power of collaboration and the shared responsibility of all islands to safeguard children’s rights.

During the internal session, the constituent countries, Aruba, Curaçao, and St. Maarten, provided updates on progress made regarding the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) recommendations since the 2022 hearing. Members also exchanged updates on the monitoring of national action plans and got the opportunity to exchange with Aruba’s Children’s Rights Commission.

The program concluded with optional field visits to Scol basico Dornasol and Scol Dun' un man, both of which support children with special needs in education.

The Taskforce expressed gratitude to the Government of Aruba for its warm hospitality and successful organization of the meeting. The islands reaffirmed their joint commitment to ensuring that every child in the Kingdom can grow up safely, with equal opportunities and access to care, education, and protection.

About the Taskforce

The Kingdom Taskforce for Children’s Rights was established following the Kingdom Conference of April 2, 2014, held in Aruba. The Taskforce promotes cooperation across the Kingdom to strengthen the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. It is composed of representatives from Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten, and from the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK) and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS). UNICEF The Netherlands serves as advisor to the Taskforce.

TASKF members

Taskforce members, UNICEF the Netherlands, and Taskforce Secretariat

TASKF min aru

Minister drs. Mervin Wyatt-Ras from Aruba

 

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KPSM Implements Operational Safety Plan for Sint Maarten’s Day Celebration

KPSM Implements Operational Safety Plan for Sint Maarten’s Day Celebration

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) has developed and will be executing a comprehensive operational plan to ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow during the upcoming Sint Maarten’s Day celebrations on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

As part of the official activities, a wreath-laying ceremony will take place in the early morning hours at the Bell-Vue Border on Union Road. This ceremonial event is expected to draw several dignitaries and will temporarily impact traffic in the surrounding area. Motorists are advised to expect delays and to follow the directions of police officers who will be on duty to guide traffic and maintain safety.

In addition, the annual Sint Maarten’s Day Parade will commence at 12:00 p.m. from the Emilio Wilson Estate and proceed to the Festival Village on Soualiga Road, where it is expected to conclude around 5:00 p.m. During this time, several streets along the parade route will be temporarily closed or have restricted access.

KPSM urges all motorists to plan their travel ahead of time and to use alternative routes to reach their destinations during the parade hours. The public’s patience and cooperation are greatly appreciated as officers work to ensure a safe and smooth flow of traffic.

The Management Team of KPSM extends sincere congratulations to the entire community of Sint Maarten on the celebration of Sint Maarten’s Day 2025, and encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly and safely during this festive period.

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Job fair deemed great success. Approximately 70 persons in attendance

(photo contributed)

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - C’z Exclusive Business Services, in collaboration with the National Employment Services Centre (NESC), proudly hosted its second Job Fair at the Government Administration Building.

The event welcomed many job seekers who participated in on-the-spot interviews conducted by attending companies, and several candidates were hired later that same day.

The initiative aimed to explore innovative recruitment opportunities and strengthen connections between employers and talented job seekers across various sectors.

C’z Exclusive Business Services is a trusted job placement agency that connects qualified candidates with reputable organizations. Beyond recruitment, the company provides a variety of professional services including outsourcing, payroll, courier operations, accounting, and banking support, among others.

Founded in 2018, the National Employment Services Centre (NESC) is dedicated to supporting local employment through training, digital matchmaking, and strategic partnerships with the private sector. Its mission is to create sustainable job opportunities and enhance employability within the community.

Throughout the event, C’z Exclusive Business Services representatives and participating employers conducted first-round interviews. Candidates who were not immediately placed will have their résumés forwarded to potential clients for review and possible second-round interviews. Follow-up emails will be sent to inform applicants of their status, while all submissions will remain on file for future vacancies.

According to Ms. Hook, CEO of C’z Exclusive Business Services, this successful partnership between C’z Exclusive Business Services and NESC highlights their ongoing commitment to empowering job seekers, supporting local businesses, and strengthening St. Maarten’s workforce.

As C’z Exclusive and NESC look ahead, both organizations remain committed to building stronger partnerships, creating meaningful opportunities, and helping every candidate take the next step toward a brighter professional future.

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POSTPONED - Public meeting of Parliament regarding Advice on the appointment of the Monument Council, Ratification Agreements Lists IPKO & the Re-appointment of the current Ombudsman

POSTPONED - Public meeting of Parliament regarding Advice on the appointment of the Monument Council, Ratification Agreements Lists IPKO & the Re-appointment of the current Ombudsman

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) - In an additional update, this meeting has now been postponed until further notice. (Lastest Update)

In an update coming from the public relations office of the House of Parliament, the house session initially planned for 11:00 AM is now rescheduled for Tuesday, at 3:30 PM. (UPDATE) 

ARCHIVED - The House of Parliament will sit in a Public meeting on October 28, 2025.

The Public meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 11.00 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda points are:

  1. Incoming documents
  1. Advice appointment of the Monument Council for the period of 2025-2029 (IS/1384/2024-2025 dated August 29, 2025)
  1. Ratification Agreements Lists of the Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO) held from September 26-29, 2025, in the Hague, the Netherlands (IS/115/2025-2026 dated September 29, 2025)
  1. Advice Re-appointment of the current Ombudsman ex. Article 2 of the National Ordinance Ombudsman (IS/1164/24-25 dated June 12, 2025)

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg. 

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, www.pearlfmradio.sx and www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament 

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Minor crashes into police car. Fines to be issued

The Bottom, Saba

SABA (THE BOTTOM) - On Thursday, the 16th of October, around 3:30 PM, a collision occurred between a scooter and a police vehicle on Pasture Street on Saba. The scooter driver, who turned out to be a minor, was driving at high speed and was ordered to stop by means of a stop sign.

Due to the high speed, the driver was unable to stop in time. He lost control of the steering wheel, causing him to collide with the service vehicle. The scooter was confiscated. The minor's parents have been notified and the driver will be fined for all the offenses he committed.

In accordance with the 'botsen is blazen’ policy, a breathalyzer test was administered with both drivers, with a negative result.

 

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Armed Robbery on Front Street – Police Investigation Ongoing. One Arrested as of Saturday Evening

Armed Robbery on Front Street – Police Investigation Ongoing. One Arrested as of Saturday Evening

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is investigating an armed robbery that occurred around 5:00 p.m. today, Saturday, October 25, 2025, on Front Street.

Three men, dressed in dark clothing, exited a vehicle and robbed a business establishment at gunpoint. Following the robbery, the suspects fled the scene via the Boardwalk, using two scooters.

Police patrols responded immediately and are currently conducting an active search for the suspects in the Fort Willem area.

An arrest was made of one of the suspects around 7:30 p.m. An ongoing search is underway in the Divi Little Bay and Belair area.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the police at +1 721-542-2222 or call the anonymous tip line at 9300.

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Part of School Safety Week activities: SSSD HOSTS PANEL DISCUSSION ON MEDICAL EMEGENCIES IN SCHOOLS

Part of School Safety Week activities: SSSD HOSTS PANEL DISCUSSION ON MEDICAL EMEGENCIES IN SCHOOLS

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Student Support Services Division of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport is holding a panel discussion that will take place at the University of St. Martin on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The panel discussion will focus on medical emergencies in schools and will be live streamed via the Facebook and YouTube pages of the Student Support Services Division. This event is part of SSSD’s School Safety week activities.

The goal of the panel discussion is to raise and strengthen awareness, promote shared responsibility and get varying perspectives on the topic. Members of the panel include the Ambulance Department, students, a parent and a Safety and Emergency team member.

We invite the public to join us online and to post any questions that they might have. Space is available for a limited number of people at USM, so if you are interested in attending in person, please contact SSSD at 5431235 and ask for Mr. Michel Chance.

The Student Support Services Division (SSSD) provides services to students referred by the schools such as psychological services, counseling services, social work services, educational diagnostic services, speech language pathology services. SSSD also provides general services such as career services, parent sessions/support groups and crisis response.

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CPS: World Food Day – Thursday. Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future

CPS: World Food Day – Thursday. Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – World Food Day (WFD) will be marked around the globe on Thursday, October 16 under the theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”

According to the United Nations (UN) Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO), is calling for global collaboration in creating a peaceful, sustainable, prosperous, and food-secure future.

“By working together, across governments, organizations, sectors, and communities, we can transform agrifood systems to ensure that everyone has access to a healthy diet, living in harmony with the planet,” the FAO says.

FAO adds, Agrifood systems are facing unprecedented challenges. “Conflict, the impacts of extreme weather and climate events, economic shocks, and rising inequality are placing mounting pressure on the land we farm, the water we depend on, and the biodiversity that supports life. Supply chains remain fragile, and the effects of disruption are being felt in homes, markets, and fields around the world.”

In some places, the severity of food insecurity is overwhelming. An estimated 673 million people world-wide are living with hunger. Elsewhere, rising levels of obesity and widespread food waste point to a system out of balance—where abundance and absence coexist, often side by side, the FAO pointed out.

Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, as part of its annual public health calendar of observances, in connection with World Food Day, households are reminded to consume a diversity of nutritious foods on a daily basis.

CPS reminds the community that healthy diets are diverse, balanced in energy, and adequate to meet nutrient needs, along with wasting less, and helping to protect the soil, water, and biodiversity that make food possible.

CPS adds that there is a critical link between sustainability, healthy eating and national public health resilience. Unhealthy diets are one of the leading preventable risk factors for non-communicable diseases. Prevention is paramount.

CPS appeals to every resident and every institution—from schools to supermarkets—to actively choose and promote nutritious food systems. A sustainable diet is not just about what is available, but what we consume daily. It’s about eating more locally sourced produce, choosing whole grains over processed foods, and limiting excess sugar and sodium.

CPS advises consumers to read the label and to actively check food labels for sugar, salt, and fat content to make informed purchasing decisions.

Promote the establishment of community and backyard gardens to increase access to fresh, affordable produce and reduce reliance on imported goods.

The choices we make every day shape the world we live in. #Nourishing Our Future

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