ASEAN–Russia Summit (Kazan): Leaders meeting in Kazan backed a stronger Russia–ASEAN “strategic partnership,” with cooperation flagged across energy, digitalization, science and technology, agriculture, and digital platforms, plus a Kazan Declaration and a 2026–2030 action plan. Energy Security Focus: Russia and ASEAN also agreed they’re worried about global energy instability, calling for tougher energy security, more resilient supply chains, and protection of critical infrastructure and maritime routes. Brunei Tech Diplomacy: Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah met Putin on the summit sidelines, with both sides pointing to growing ties in energy, industry, agriculture, and medicine. Quantum Biotech Deal: PTG and PolarisQB signed an exclusive representation agreement covering Greater China and Southeast Asia, aiming to open commercial links with pharma and R&D groups for PolarisQB’s quantum-powered drug discovery. GIS for Government: Boustead Singapore’s Esri Australia renewed a major ArcGIS contract with Australia’s federal government (about S$60m), with GIS adoption expanding across multiple markets including Brunei. Agri-Tech in Schools: DepEd recognized SEARCA for agriculture-based learning, including agri-robotics training to bring engineering into farming education. Shell Leadership in Nigeria: Shell named Brunei Shell Petroleum asset director Elohor Aiboni as EVP and Country Chair Nigeria (effective Aug 1, 2026), highlighting her experience across offshore and onshore operations. Cyclone Impact on Biodiversity: A study says Indonesia’s Cyclone Senyar killed nearly 60 of the world’s remaining Tapanuli orangutans, underscoring how extreme weather and habitat loss are pushing the species closer to extinction.