AGP Executive Report

South China Sea Flashpoints: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered a veiled rebuke of China in his State of the Nation Address, saying Manila will defend the 2016 arbitration ruling and that Filipinos “do not yield,” after China-linked racist depictions in state media. Maritime Tensions: Fresh clashes continued as the Philippine Coast Guard accused China of firing water cannons at Philippine fisheries vessels near Scarborough Shoal for a second straight day, with China calling its actions “lawful” and “control measures.” Regional Diplomacy: ASEAN and China are pushing to finish a long-awaited South China Sea Code of Conduct by year-end, but experts warn key disagreements may still block a deal. Brunei-Relevant Cooperation: Brunei is among ASEAN members backing regional engagement, including moves to strengthen ties and practical cooperation across the bloc. Local/Regional Security: Separately, Malaysia will host an Asean anti-graft meeting, while Singapore reported arrests under its Internal Security Act tied to planned attacks.

South China Sea Flashpoints: The Philippine Coast Guard accused China’s coast guard of firing water cannons at Philippine fisheries vessels near Scarborough Shoal for a second straight day, saying the incidents created a serious collision risk and that the shoal is a traditional Filipino fishing ground. ASEAN Diplomacy on the Code of Conduct: ASEAN and China are pushing to wrap up South China Sea Code of Conduct talks by year-end, but experts warn key disagreements over scope and legal status could still stall progress. Regional Security Messaging: At the ASEAN Regional Forum, India’s Jaishankar urged zero tolerance for terrorism and stressed keeping international shipping routes safe. Brunei-China Spotlight: China’s FM said China and Brunei set an example for ties between large and small nations, as ASEAN meetings continued in Manila. Brunei Skills & Aviation: Royal Brunei Airlines and Aviation Australia signed an MoU to train future aircraft maintenance engineers in Brunei, building on existing apprenticeship programmes. Student Visa Update: The UK will waive upfront proof of funds for some student visa applicants, including Brunei, though evidence may still be requested later. Economy Watch (Philippines): AMRO said the Philippines could be among ASEAN’s slowest-growing economies this year as oil shocks weigh on growth and inflation.

Regional Anti-Corruption: Malaysia’s MACC will host the 22nd ASEAN Parties Against Corruption (ASEAN-PAC) Secretariat Meeting in Melaka from July 28–30, with delegates from Brunei and other ASEAN members plus UNODC, OECD and ADB to share best practices and tackle new corruption challenges. South China Sea Flashpoints: Tensions between China and the Philippines stay high after the Philippine Coast Guard accused China of firing water cannons for a second day near Scarborough Shoal, creating a “serious risk of collision,” as both sides trade claims over “control measures” and fishing rights. ASEAN Security Push: At the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila, India’s Jaishankar urged “zero tolerance” for terrorism and warned that attacks on maritime shipping and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable, while the US reaffirmed its South China Sea interests as ASEAN-China Code of Conduct talks aim for year-end progress. Brunei Aviation Skills: Royal Brunei Airlines and Aviation Australia signed an MoU to train future aircraft maintenance engineers under EASA Part 147, building on RB apprenticeships in Brisbane. ASEAN Mobility Snapshot: Singapore topped the Henley Passport Index again, while Brunei ranked 19th with visa-free access to 163 destinations.

Regional Anti-Corruption: Malaysia’s MACC will host the 22nd ASEAN Parties Against Corruption (ASEAN-PAC) Secretariat Meeting in Melaka from July 28–30, bringing together anti-graft agencies from Brunei and other ASEAN members plus UNODC, OECD and ADB to tackle emerging corruption risks and boost enforcement and prevention cooperation. South China Sea Search & Rescue: Rescuers are searching for missing people after a Vietnamese cargo vessel sank near Fiery Cross Reef, with Chinese authorities reporting dozens rescued and dozens still unaccounted for. ASEAN Policing Against Crime: ASEAN top police leaders agreed to strengthen a shared digital platform—the Electronic Aseanapol Database System (E-ADS)—to improve intelligence sharing and joint action against transnational crime, including cybercrime and scams. Brunei-China Diplomacy: China’s Wang Yi met Brunei’s Foreign Minister Prince Abdul Mateen in Manila, reaffirming plans to deepen cooperation in economy, energy and AI, and to advance maritime joint development. South China Sea Flashpoint: Tensions between China and the Philippines continue after fresh accusations of water cannon use near Scarborough Shoal, as both sides trade claims over “control measures” and fishing rights.

South China Sea Flashpoints: The Philippines says China fired water cannons at its vessels for a second day near Scarborough Shoal, with Chinese ships also accused of risky manoeuvres that created a “serious risk of collision,” as Manila reiterates the area is within its EEZ and traditional fishing grounds. Regional Security Talks: At ASEAN-linked meetings in Manila, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed US interests in the South China Sea and said Washington is ready to help end the Ukraine war but sees no quick deal, while India’s Jaishankar urged “zero tolerance” for terrorism and safe, open shipping routes. China-Brunei Diplomacy: China’s Wang Yi met Brunei’s foreign minister Abdul Mateen in Manila, sending greetings to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and highlighting cooperation in economy, energy and AI, plus maritime joint development. Brunei-Linked Capacity Building: Royal Brunei Airlines and Aviation Australia signed an MoU to train future aircraft maintenance engineers for Brunei using EASA Part 147-approved diploma pathways. ASEAN Police Cooperation: Southeast Asia police chiefs agreed to strengthen a shared digital system (E-ADS) to tackle transnational crime, including better intelligence sharing and training. Local Culture & Food: A Brunei Malay/Kedayan-inspired northern Sarawak entrepreneur is promoting pandan kelupis, blending heritage flavours with a modern twist.

South China Sea Flashpoints: The Philippines says Chinese coast guard ships fired water cannons near Scarborough Shoal for a second straight day, creating a “serious risk of collision” and marking the third confrontation in a week, as Manila reiterates the area is within its EEZ and traditional fishing grounds. ASEAN–China Code of Conduct Push: ASEAN and China are aiming to wrap up South China Sea Code of Conduct talks by year-end, but experts warn key disagreements over legal status and coverage could still stall progress. Regional Security at ARF: India’s Jaishankar urged “zero tolerance” for terrorism and stressed safe, open shipping lanes, while the US reaffirmed its South China Sea interests as diplomats meet in Manila amid wider Middle East and Ukraine concerns. Brunei Aviation Skills: Royal Brunei Airlines and Aviation Australia signed an MoU to train future aircraft maintenance engineers, building on RB apprentices studying in Brisbane. Travel Freedom Snapshot: Singapore topped the Henley Passport Index again, while Brunei ranked 19th with visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to 163 destinations. Local Talent for Defence Events: Singapore’s MINDEF will take volunteers for performing arts roles—dancers, musicians, emcees and sound/camera tech—for defence-related productions under the SG Defence Volunteer Network.

South China Sea Diplomacy: ASEAN and China are pushing to wrap up negotiations on a long-awaited Code of Conduct by year-end, but experts warn key disagreements over legal status and scope could still derail the timeline. Maritime Flashpoints: Tensions keep spiking as the Philippines accuses China’s coast guard of firing water cannons near Scarborough Shoal for a second straight day, with Manila warning of collision risks and reiterating the area as part of its territory and EEZ. US-ASEAN Security Signals: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s South China Sea stake while assuring Asian allies it won’t abandon them as it seeks a more positive relationship with Beijing; he also said the US is ready to help broker an end to the Ukraine war, but no quick deal is in sight. Regional Security Priorities: India’s Jaishankar urged “zero tolerance” for terrorism and stressed keeping international shipping routes safe and open, as ASEAN Regional Forum talks in Manila focused on Middle East and sea-lane risks. Brunei-Linked Cooperation: Royal Brunei Airlines and Aviation Australia signed an MoU to train future aircraft maintenance engineers, building on RB apprentices studying in Brisbane. Brunei in the Wider Region: A separate report notes Brunei’s passport ranking at 19th globally in the Henley index, with visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to 163 destinations.

South China Sea Flashpoints: The Philippine Coast Guard says Chinese coast guard vessels fired water cannons near Scarborough Shoal for a second straight day, creating a “serious risk of collision” and hitting Philippine government ships during fuel-relief and patrols. ASEAN Security Diplomacy: As ASEAN foreign ministers wrapped talks in Manila, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged sustained diplomacy on Ukraine after meeting Russia’s Lavrov, while also stressing the US won’t abandon Asian partners amid rising regional tensions. Regional Law Enforcement Cooperation: Hong Kong Police Force representatives joined the 44th ASEAN Chiefs of Police Conference in Manila to strengthen cross-border coordination against transnational crime. Brunei Travel Context: Brunei was ranked 19th in the Henley Passport Index 2026, with visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to 163 destinations. Climate Finance Pressure (Malaysia/Region): Leaders at Malaysia’s climate summit warned adaptation funding is stuck by a lack of bankable projects and clear metrics, even as the region faces growing disaster risks.

Passport Power Rankings: Malaysia stays 7th in the Henley Passport Index 2026 with visa-free/VOA access to 183 destinations; Brunei ranks 19th with access to 163, while Singapore tops the region at 192. Ukraine Diplomacy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Washington is ready to help end the “senseless war” in Ukraine, but admits there’s no quick deal, after talks with Russia’s Lavrov in Manila. Regional Security Talks: ASEAN Regional Forum discussions in Manila focus on the Middle East crisis and Strait of Hormuz risks, with leaders warning that disruptions to shipping and maritime infrastructure are unacceptable. South China Sea Flashpoint: Philippines accuses China of using water cannon near Scarborough Shoal for a second day, as tensions and “control measures” continue. Brunei-Linked Crime Crackdown: A foreign national wanted by Brunei over alleged ATM skimming was arrested at Miri Airport, with police citing cross-border cooperation. Public Health Push: Guardian Malaysia launches a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of perimenopause among women aged 35–49, including messaging aimed at better support and recognition.

ASEAN Security Forum in Manila: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassured Asian allies the US won’t abandon them even as Washington seeks positive ties with Beijing, while top diplomats also focused on the Middle East crisis and South China Sea tensions. Ukraine diplomacy: Rubio met Russia’s Sergey Lavrov and said the US is ready to help end the “senseless war” in Ukraine, but there’s no quick deal. Hormuz warning: Rubio urged leaders not to accept Iran’s push to control Strait of Hormuz tolls, warning it would set a dangerous precedent for global shipping. Terrorism and maritime safety: India’s Jaishankar called for “zero tolerance” for terrorism and stressed attacks on merchant shipping and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable. Brunei-linked crime bust: A foreign national wanted by Brunei for alleged ATM skimming was arrested at Miri Airport after joint Malaysia-Brunei intelligence work. Trade and partnerships: Türkiye gained ASEAN dialogue partner status, aiming to expand trade, defense and energy ties. Halal market debate: ASEAN’s halal “authenticity” was highlighted as a key advantage, but concerns remain that the region sells strengths separately. Brunei travel access: Brunei ranked 19th on the Henley Passport Index with visa-free/VOA access to 163 destinations.

Cross-border ATM crime: A foreign national wanted by Brunei for allegedly installing ATM skimming devices was arrested at Miri Airport after joint intelligence work by Royal Malaysia Police and Royal Brunei Police Force, then handed over for further investigation and legal action. ASEAN security diplomacy: Top diplomats gathered in Manila for the ASEAN Regional Forum as Iran’s Strait of Hormuz toll demands and renewed Middle East hostilities dominated talks, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warning the move would set a dangerous precedent for global shipping. US-China talks amid regional tensions: Rubio met China’s Wang Yi to discuss managing big differences ahead of a possible Trump-Xi summit, while ASEAN partners also raised concerns over South China Sea incidents and wider security risks. Brunei-China ties highlighted: China’s foreign minister told Brunei it sets an example for cooperation between large and small nations, pointing to plans to deepen trade, energy and AI links. Finance and investment: Record Asset Management launched “Record Amanah,” a Sharia-compliant investment platform, citing recent Brunei-related transactions.

ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told ASEAN partners the Strait of Hormuz toll demand by Iran would threaten freedom of navigation and the global economy, warning it sets a dangerous precedent that could spread beyond the Middle East. US–China Talks: Rubio met China’s Wang Yi to discuss preparations for a possible September Xi visit to the US, as ASEAN ministers also weighed South China Sea tensions. ASEAN–EU Warning: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Middle East conflict fallout will outlast headlines, hitting Southeast Asia through higher fuel, food and freight costs. Regional Security Push: Japan pledged tighter ASEAN cooperation to defend territories and waters amid China concerns, while the Quad (US, Australia, India, Japan) reaffirmed maritime and technology collaboration. ASEAN Expands Links: ASEAN granted Turkey full Dialogue Partner status, upgrading Ankara’s institutional ties with the bloc. Myanmar Peace Process: ASEAN ministers drafted plans to review Myanmar’s Five-Point Consensus progress with benchmarks and discuss a longer-term envoy ahead of a November summit.

ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned ASEAN leaders that Iran’s push to control and collect tolls in the Strait of Hormuz would set a “dangerous precedent” and threaten freedom of navigation, while also stressing Washington is “with ASEAN 100%.” US–China Talks: Rubio is set to meet China’s Wang Yi on the sidelines, with observers expecting discussion of a possible September Trump–Xi summit, South China Sea tensions, and the Iran conflict. Myanmar Peace Mechanism: ASEAN foreign ministers in Manila agreed to develop benchmarks to track Myanmar’s Five-Point Consensus progress and to refine plans for a longer-term special envoy, with Brunei proposing a secretariat unit to support the envoy. Brunei Business & Tech: Nanta Tech Ltd signed an MoU with GM Biovalley to bring robotics and automation solutions to Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore, aiming to build a regional ecosystem. Brunei Tourism Push: Brunei launched a one-year Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification project for Ulu Temburong National Park and Luagan Lalak Recreational Park to boost sustainable ecotourism. Regional Security Flashpoint: Reports of a clash between Chinese and Filipino personnel near Second Thomas Shoal—using sticks and oars—highlight how South China Sea tensions remain volatile.

ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: South Korea’s FM Cho Hyun is heading to the Philippines for ASEAN-related meetings, aiming to deepen cooperation on energy, economic security, AI, culture and online scam-crime efforts, while also seeking support for peace on the Korean Peninsula. Myanmar Peace Push: ASEAN foreign ministers agreed to develop benchmarks to track progress in Myanmar and discussed a longer-term special envoy to revive the stalled Five-Point Consensus, with Brunei backing a secretariat unit to support the envoy. Regional Security Concerns: ASEAN top diplomats are set to express alarm over renewed Middle East hostilities, with Iran and Strait of Hormuz risks expected to feature heavily. Maritime Tensions: Fresh clashes in the South China Sea saw Chinese and Filipino sailors reportedly using sticks and oars near Second Thomas Shoal, escalating blame between both sides. Brunei Tourism Move: Brunei launched a one-year GSTC certification project for Ulu Temburong National Park and Luagan Lalak Recreational Park to boost sustainable ecotourism. Business & Tech: Nanta Tech signed an MoU with GM Biovalley to introduce and commercialise robotics and automation solutions across Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore. Automotive Retail: Karrus Automotive Group was appointed exclusive distributor for Meguiar’s in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: Southeast Asia’s foreign ministers, meeting in the Philippines, are set to express alarm over renewed Middle East hostilities, with Iran and wider spillover risks expected to dominate talks joined by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, China’s Wang Yi and Russia’s Lavrov. Brunei Tourism Push: Brunei has launched a one-year Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification project for Ulu Temburong National Park and Luagan Lalak Recreational Park, aiming to boost sustainable management and community well-being under international standards. ASEAN-Japan Economic Link: ASEAN and Japan’s DISG Task Force adopted the “DISG Task Force Joint Declaration,” outlining cooperation across supply chain resilience, innovation, AI/digital investment and energy transition. South China Sea Tensions: China and the Philippines resumed high-level diplomatic talks after renewed clashes near Second Thomas Shoal, as both sides trade accusations over baton-and-oar incidents. Regional Mobility & Travel: Vietnam’s visa-free list for 2026 includes Brunei, while Taiwan extended visa-free entry for Brunei citizens until July 31, 2027. Local Business Note: Karrus Automotive Group appointed exclusive distributor for Meguiar’s in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, targeting retail expansion and technical training.

ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: Brunei’s Foreign Minister Erywan Yusof joined the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Pasay, with talks running to July 24 and major partners including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and China’s Wang Yi, as ministers focus on regional peace amid the Iran war, Myanmar crisis and South China Sea tensions. South China Sea Talks: China and the Philippines resumed high-level dialogue after a near two-year pause, aiming to manage maritime risks even as confrontations continue at sea. Brunei Tourism Move: Brunei launched a one-year GSTC certification project for two eco-tourism sites—Ulu Temburong National Park and Luagan Lalak Recreational Park—to strengthen sustainable management and community benefits. Local Business Deal: Karrus Automotive Group was appointed Meguiar’s exclusive distributor for Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, with plans to expand retail, training and detailing partnerships. Regional Energy Pressure: Reports say renewed Middle East hostilities could again strain oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz, keeping energy security on ASEAN’s agenda. Travel Update: Vietnam published its 2026 visa-exemption framework, listing Brunei among 54 countries eligible for visa-free short stays.