UAE job creation going strong, Urgent investigation in India train accident, 1 year since single-use plastic ban, and more, Gulf News Editors comment on the top stories on June 5

JOB CREATION REMAINS STRONG IN THE UAE: The UAE's non-oil sector exhibited strong performance in May, with job creation remaining robust. According to the UAE PMI, firms demonstrated increased confidence in future activity, leading to the highest 12-month outlook since October 2021. The S&P Global UAE Purchasing Managers' Index recorded a solid improvement, with a reading of 55.5, indicating growth. Operating conditions improved primarily due to increased sales volumes, driven by new clients, enhanced marketing efforts, and growing travel and tourism. Domestic demand fueled the rise in new business, while export sales remained stable. The positive trend reflects growing economic prospects, with expectations for future activity consistently improving over the past five months, reaching the highest level since late 2021. (By Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

INDIA’S RAIL MISHAP - URGENT INVESTIGATION REQUIRED: India's recent train accident, one of the worst railway tragedies in the nation, requires urgent action. A thorough investigation is necessary to hold accountable those responsible for the incident that claimed 275 lives. Initial reports suggest a signal fault as the cause. The collision involved three trains, making it India's most severe rail accident of the 21st century. The country’s Railway Minister has already recommended the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to lead the investigation. Also safety measures must be improved, particularly the electronic interlocking system for train signaling. Addressing any negligence or systemic failures is crucial. Strengthening safety protocols within the Indian railway system is imperative to prevent future tragedies. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BAN: It’s been a year since the ban on single-use plastic bags in Abu Dhabi came into effect. On June 1, 2022, the emirate made the move, which has led to a shift in the way consumers use plastic. The regulation has led to a change in consciousness, as a result of which residents today have a greater awareness about of their plastic footprint. It’s now customary to see shoppers carrying their own fabric totes and multiple-use bags. At the same time, there’s a great vigilance among residents on the use of disposable plastic items. The policy change has led to a major change in mindset; the change in behaviour shows caring for the environment is everyone’s job. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

SAUDI ARABIA TO REAP REWARDS FROM BIG SPENDINGS: Karim Benzema, following in the footsteps of former Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, is headed to Saudi Arabia. The imminent move of Argentine great Lionel Messi to the Kingdom will further bolster Saudi Arabian football, enhancing competition and raising standards among regional teams. Ronaldo, Messi, and Benzema collectively boast 14 FIFA Player of the Year awards, highlighting the immense value they bring to the Saudi Professional League. As a result, the league is poised for phenomenal growth. Young aspiring players who watch these football icons in action will be inspired to become future stars. Saudi professional players competing with or against Ronaldo, Messi, and Benzema will gain valuable confidence on the international stage. These matches will also provide crucial insights into the strategies employed by these world-class players. Saudi Arabia is determined to capitalise on these substantial investments and reap significant gains. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

ANIL KAPOOR CALLS OUT ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY: Indian actor Anil Kapoor, who has worked in Hollywood and Bollywood films, remains one of the most age-defying and well-preserved actors of our generation. At 66, he is a portrait of being fit and fabulous. But when Gulf News interacted with the actor in an exclusive interview in Dubai, 'The Night Manager' actor told us a few hard facts. His industry is ageist and vanity isn't a negative trait for an actor. There are very few actors who are so open about how roles are still written for younger actors and that your physicality matters. There's immense pressure on them to look a certain way and Kapoor may have aced that game, but his honesty about the challenges faced by older actor deserves credit. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)