Brunei-Linked Regional Diplomacy: APEC’s China Studies Scholars Forum opened in Guangzhou with over 100 experts from 16 economies, including Brunei, focusing on shared future and development challenges. South China Sea Tensions: The Philippines released new images of suspected structures at Scarborough Shoal, saying the number of foreign objects under investigation has grown, as China and Manila continue maritime standoffs. China vs Philippines: Beijing announced sanctions against Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and close relatives, citing “erroneous remarks” and restricting travel and dealings with them. Environment & Wildlife: A new study says Indonesia’s Sumatra floods and landslides killed at least 58 critically endangered Tapanuli orangutans—about 7% of the species—linking the disaster risk to climate change and deforestation. Brunei Sports Loss: Hundreds in Mindanao paid final respects to late Davao Eagles star Rene Clert Baterbonia, whose death shocked the sports community. Regional Business & Investment: ASEAN diplomats visited Bangladesh’s BSEZ, signaling interest in expanding investment and industrial cooperation. Labuan Sports Tourism: 40 participants will compete in the Labuan Super Novice 4X4 Challenge 2026, with drivers from Labuan, Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei.