Sharia Finance Push: Record Asset Management launched “Record Amanah,” a Sharia-compliant investment platform for institutional investors, starting with private markets and private equity, after Record’s recent Brunei deal and in partnership with London’s Khalij Group. ASEAN Trade Talks: India and ASEAN set strict, time-bound timelines to speed up the AITIGA review, aiming to finalise outstanding chapters like market access, rules of origin and customs procedures amid India’s widening trade deficit concerns. Brunei in Regional OSH Leadership: Brunei took the vice chair and the OSHNET Secretariat role for 2026–2029 as Vietnam hosted key ASEAN-OSHNET meetings in Da Nang, with a new 2026–2030 action plan focused on safer workplaces and digital transformation. Digital & AI Cooperation: Kuwait and Brunei discussed deeper ties in digital transformation, AI and cybersecurity, including exchanging expertise and best practices for building the digital ecosystem. Energy Pressure from Iran War: ASEAN warned the Iran conflict is exposing the bloc’s oil-import vulnerabilities via the Strait of Hormuz, driving subsidy costs and fiscal strain while pushing renewables. Visa Waiver Update: The US clarified Visa Waiver Programme entry rules, including ESTA clearance before travel, with Brunei listed among eligible countries.