AI & Agri-Tech Deal: VentureTECH Partners has invested in Malaysia’s Pacton Technologies to boost its AI/IoT aquaculture platform, FishSpeak, with plans to scale deployments into Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei and the Philippines. Maritime Tensions: Taiwan says a Chinese coast guard vessel left waters near the Pratas Islands after a heated radio exchange, as Taipei stays on heightened alert amid rising activity in the South China Sea. Diplomacy & Soft Power: Switzerland is pushing a “charm offensive” in Southeast Asia while envoys gathered in Seoul for Africa Day 2026, highlighting widening cultural and diplomatic ties. Brunei in the Spotlight: Brunei’s Crown Prince met Qatar’s ambassador, reviewing bilateral relations. Regional Sports Momentum: The Philippines’ Marcos pledged full support for sports at the Palarong Pambansa 2026 opening, while ASEAN chairship is credited with lifting PH tourism. Brunei Tech & Health: Brunei’s FinTech sandbox rules were updated to widen participation, and MoH says Ebola-related Bundibugyo virus risk remains low.