UAE scrapping Covid mask requirement and how waste-to-energy trend is catching up, our editors comment on the top stories of September 27

EASING OF COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS INSTILS NEW CONFIDENCE: The easing of COVID-19 protocols in the UAE with effect from tomorrow (September 28) ushers in a new chapter in the global battle against the pandemic as it instils a new sense of confidence among residents and visitors. The relaxation of restrictions, including the wearing of masks, is a measured move, thereby ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. At the end of the day, each of us as individuals must exercise our discretion with utmost responsibility and caution. Then alone can the collective good come about. (By Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor).

IN GREEN JOURNEY, UAE BUSINESSES LEARN TO MAKE USE OF WASTE: From the outside, it doesn’t have the kind of aura attached to a new-age job credential as being in fintech or, say, metaverse marketing. But making good use of waste and repurposing it into energy is getting more businesses to take a closer look at it. Sharjah-based Beeah Group remains a pioneer in this waste-to-energy space, but there are smaller ventures making a mark. Not everything in the push towards renewable and clean energy need to be about sizable investments in still emerging areas and green hydrogen. Waste too has its purposes – and could soon be powering your home. Waste-to-energy will clearly be leaving its mark. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

EXCITING TIMES FOR UAE CRICKET: A dream come true for many young talents and experienced players alike when the UAE played Bangladesh, a Test-playing nation, in the two-match SkyExch Friendship Series at the Dubai International Stadium. There are many more such wonderful opportunities that await the UAE players – the second match against Bangladesh is on Tuesday and more will follow in the next month when they play in the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia. As many as six home-grown players are in the UAE squad, including three teenagers Aayan Khan, Alishan Sharufu and Aditya Shetty. The team members and the management are excited about the opportunities that will also spur the growth at the grassroots level. It’s just the beginning is the one voice that I get to hear from everyone connected with the sport in UAE. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

ARE CELEBRITIES ALLOWED TO LOSE THEIR COOL? Malayalam actor Sreenath Bhasi gained instant notoriety after he was arrested for allegedly verbally abusing a journalist while being interviewed for his upcoming film. Apparently, he founds the questions trite and made his displeasure known. But the way he expressed his discontent isn’t admirable. He could have just ended the interview abruptly with a curt ‘no comment’. But he chose to fly off the handle. This incident brings to focus the relentless pressure that celebrities and journalists undergo when a film’s up for release. The other day, Ranbir Kapoor – who looked visibly tired while promoting ‘Brahmastra’– claimed that it felt like his 24th interview of the day and that he was tired from the round of media interviews. More power to him for his honesty and I wish Bhasi had taken a similar route instead of hurling profanities. Often, how you say it matters more than what you say. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Assistant Editor Features)