Regional Border Tech & Security: Indonesia and Australia agreed to boost ASEAN-Australia border security with closer intelligence sharing, immigration coordination and cybersecurity, plus upgraded frontline standards; Brunei and Indonesia citizens already use Australia’s SmartGate. STI Collaboration: Malaysia urged ASEAN to build a more integrated, mission-driven science, technology and innovation ecosystem, linking research to real societal impact. Transboundary Haze Alert: Singapore’s think tank issued a rare “red” risk for severe haze in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore in 2026, with peak danger in Aug–Sep driven by El Niño and Indian Ocean Dipole, worsened by costs and biofuel-driven land pressure. Brunei Digital Ops: Royal Brunei Airlines went live with AMOSmobile/EXEC, letting maintenance teams execute and document tasks digitally at the aircraft to cut paper workflows. Local Food Innovation: UniSZA students created 10 new pumpkin and chilli-based food products, including frozen yoghurt and nuggets, with Brunei student participation. Energy Connectivity: The Philippines is exploring power links with Indonesia under the ASEAN Power Grid, aiming to accelerate cross-border interconnection. Maritime Exercise: RIMPAC kicked off in Hawaii with Brunei among participating nations, featuring large-scale naval, air and submarine participation.