AGP Executive Report

Brunei & ASEAN Tech/Connectivity: Royal Brunei Airlines and SES have completed the RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi rollout across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, bringing satellite-backed, multi-orbit connectivity to all A320neo aircraft in operation across the Asia-Pacific. Digital Services Expansion: Apple Music has finally launched in Brunei (along with Pakistan, Albania and Burkina Faso), more than 11 years after its original debut—another sign of fast-growing regional demand for streaming. AI Security: TrendAI Vision One™ expanded support for Claude’s Compliance API, now covering Claude Code and Cowork session transcripts so security teams can investigate AI agent prompts, responses and tool calls in context. Cyber Risk Watch: A New Zealand investigation warns that Strava fitness data can expose military “pattern of life” across bases and countries, highlighting how public location trails can become intelligence. STEM/Health Research: A new Global Burden of Disease 2023 analysis looks at rheumatic heart disease trends and sex differences across China and ASEAN through 2030. Regional Tech Policy: ASEAN is pushing practical cooperation on a regional power grid, climate finance and resilience as climate and energy shocks ripple through everyday costs. Mobility & Industry: PLDT’s Smart and Ericsson demonstrated an Ericsson On‑Demand Roaming Breakout service to deliver “local-like” overseas mobile performance for Filipino travellers.

Cybersecurity & Privacy: Security experts say fitness app Strava can expose “pattern of life” details by mapping public runs from NZDF staff across bases in New Zealand and overseas, warning NZDF lacks a specific policy to stop the risk. Aviation Connectivity: SES and Royal Brunei Airlines have finished installing RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, bringing multi-orbit satellite connectivity to all A320neo aircraft in service. Consumer Tech: Apple Music finally launches in Brunei (plus Pakistan, Albania and Burkina Faso) after an 11-year wait, while the Android app gets a “Liquid Glass” redesign in beta. Mobile Networks: Ericsson reports strong demand in the Philippines for guaranteed 5G performance, with many users willing to pay a premium for reliable connectivity. Regional Digital Economy: ASEAN is pushing the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) toward signature, aiming to boost the region’s digital economy to multi-trillion levels by 2030. Mobility & Local Business: Subaru returns to Brunei with an authorised showroom by Imperial Motors, while Mazda’s all-new CX-5 is officially launched locally with updated tech and comfort features.

Brunei Tech & Connectivity: Royal Brunei Airlines and SES have finished installing RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, bringing seamless multi-orbit connectivity to all A320neo aircraft in operation across the Asia-Pacific. Digital Economy (ASEAN): ASEAN’s Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is set to be signed in November, aiming for an open and secure digital future—while critics warn the “borderless” push could leave ordinary users behind. AI Security: TrendAI (Trend Micro) expanded TrendAI Vision One support for Anthropic’s Claude Compliance API, adding visibility into Claude Code and Cowork sessions so security teams can investigate AI agent prompts, responses, and tool calls. Mobile Networks: Ericsson ConsumerLab reports Filipino 5G users want guaranteed connectivity in critical moments, with many willing to pay a premium—an angle tied to rising AI use on mobile. Streaming in Brunei: Apple Music officially launched in Brunei (plus Pakistan, Albania, Burkina Faso), ending an 11-year wait for the service. Local Business Leadership: DHL Express appointed Julian Neo as Managing Director for Hong Kong and Macau, with prior leadership experience including DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei. Science & Learning: The UNESCO–Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development shortlist was announced, with laureates due to be revealed on 5 Oct 2026.

In-flight Connectivity for Brunei Travelers: SES and Royal Brunei Airlines have finished installing the RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi system across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, using a multi-orbit satellite setup to keep connections stable on routes including China and India. ASEAN Digital Trust: A new push for the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) aims to open a secure, inclusive digital future, but civil society groups warn the “borderless” plan could still leave everyday users exposed if trust and rights aren’t handled well. Brunei Tech Diplomacy: Brunei Crown Prince Haji Al‑Muhtadee Billah wrapped up a five-day Singapore visit, touring the Oceanarium and Punggol Digital District, including autonomous-vehicle demos and robot showcases. Regional Innovation & Education: The UNESCO–Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development shortlist (10 projects) was announced ahead of the 5 Oct 2026 laureate reveal, spotlighting teacher support worldwide. Philippines 5G Demand: An Ericsson ConsumerLab study says Pinoy 5G users want guaranteed connectivity during critical moments, with many willing to pay a premium for better service. Car Tech in Brunei: Grand Auto launched the all-new Mazda CX‑5 locally, while Imperial Motors brought Subaru back with an authorised showroom and aftersales support. Space Investment: Oman’s OIA backed PLD Space via a fund, supporting future small-satellite launch plans from the Sultanate.

Aviation Connectivity: Royal Brunei Airlines and SES have finished installing RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, using SES’s multi-orbit satellite network to keep connections stable across routes including China and India. Digital Services: Apple Music has finally launched in Brunei (along with Pakistan, Albania and Burkina Faso) after an 11-year wait, expanding availability to 172 countries and regions. Mobile Networks: Ericsson’s ConsumerLab study says Filipino 5G users want guaranteed connectivity during critical moments, with many willing to pay a premium—an indicator of rising expectations as mobile AI adoption grows. Regional Tech Policy: ASEAN’s Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is set to be signed in November, aiming for an open and secure digital future, but trust and digital rights concerns remain. STEM & Education: The UNESCO–Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development shortlist is out, with laureates due to be revealed on 5 Oct 2026. Science Culture: The Nat in San Diego marks Judy Gradwohl’s 10-year CEO anniversary, highlighting hands-on discovery in its entomology lab.

In-flight Connectivity for Brunei Travelers: SES and Royal Brunei Airlines have finished installing the RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi system across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, using SES’s multi-orbit satellite network for more stable, seamless connectivity across Asia-Pacific routes. Regional Digital Policy: ASEAN is pushing ahead with the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), aiming for an open, secure digital future for its 700 million people, but civil society groups are warning about trust, rights, and what the deal means for everyday users. Mobile Network Expectations: An Ericsson ConsumerLab study says Filipino 5G users strongly want guaranteed connectivity during critical moments, with many willing to pay a premium—an insight that matters as AI-driven mobile services grow. Innovation & Education Spotlight: The UNESCO–Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development has shortlisted 10 projects, with laureates due to be revealed on 5 Oct 2026. Local Tech & Mobility: Brunei’s Crown Prince wrapped up a Singapore visit that included tours of the Punggol Digital District, featuring autonomous vehicles and robot demonstrations. Automotive Tech in Brunei: Mazda’s all-new CX-5 officially launched locally with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, digital driver display, and Bose audio; Subaru also returned via a new Brunei showroom with full sales and aftersales support.

Brunei Connectivity Upgrade: SES and Royal Brunei Airlines have completed the RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi rollout across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, using SES’s multi-orbit network and ESA antenna tech to deliver steadier connectivity across Asia-Pacific routes. Regional Tech & Policy: ASEAN leaders are pushing the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) toward signing in November, aiming for a more open and secure digital future—while critics warn about trust and real-world impacts for everyday users. Digital Economy Growth: A new look at ASEAN’s digital economy says it could jump from about $300B in 2025 to $1T by 2030, driven by e-commerce, digital finance, and platform investment. AI Security for Enterprises: TrendAI Vision One™ expanded support for Claude’s Compliance API, letting security teams inspect AI agent prompts, responses, and tool calls tied to users. Music Streaming Expansion: Apple Music has launched in Brunei (plus Pakistan, Albania, Burkina Faso), ending an 11-year wait and bringing the service to 172 regions. Climate & Infrastructure Focus: ASEAN is urged to build a regional power grid, scale climate finance, and boost resilience as climate risks and energy price shocks hit the region.

Brunei Connectivity Upgrade: SES and Royal Brunei Airlines have finished installing RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi across the airline’s Airbus A320neo fleet, using multi-orbit satellite tech for more stable onboard internet across Asia-Pacific routes. ASEAN Digital Policy: Singapore’s Grace Fu says ASEAN should prioritise a regional power grid, climate finance and resilience, while the bloc pushes ahead with the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) aimed at an open, secure digital future. Regional Tech Diplomacy: Brunei Crown Prince Haji Al‑Muhtadee Billah wrapped up a five-day Singapore visit, touring the Oceanarium and Punggol Digital District, including autonomous vehicle rides and robot demos. Local Market Signals: Grand Auto Sdn Bhd launched the all-new Mazda CX‑5 in Brunei with a larger cabin and tech upgrades like wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Bose audio; Imperial Motors (Inchcape) also returned Subaru to Brunei with an authorised showroom and aftersales support. Education & Tech Talent: Hamdan Foundation shortlisted 10 projects for the UNESCO–Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development, with laureates due 5 Oct 2026.

Aviation Connectivity: SES and Royal Brunei Airlines have finished installing the RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, using a multi-orbit satellite setup to keep connections stable on routes across Asia-Pacific, including China and India. Digital Services Expansion: Apple Music has finally launched in Brunei (along with Pakistan, Albania and Burkina Faso), bringing the service to 172 countries—plus an Android redesign in beta dubbed “Liquid Glass.” ASEAN Tech & Climate: ASEAN leaders are pushing practical cooperation on a regional power grid, climate finance and resilience as climate anxiety rises in the latest regional surveys. AI Security for Enterprises: TrendAI Vision One™ expanded support for Claude’s Compliance API, adding visibility into Claude Code and Cowork sessions so security teams can review AI agent prompts, responses and tool calls. Brunei-Singapore Leadership Ties: Brunei Crown Prince Haji Al‑Muhtadee Billah wrapped up a five-day Singapore visit, touring Punggol Digital District and the Oceanarium, with discussions spanning digital and green economy cooperation. Education Innovation: The UNESCO–Hamdan Prize for Teacher Development shortlist of 10 projects was announced, with laureates due on 5 Oct 2026. Tech Policy Watch: Germany published Schengen visa fee-waiver categories, including specific family-member exemptions under the Visa Code.

Aviation Connectivity: SES and Royal Brunei Airlines have completed the RB SkyConnect inflight Wi‑Fi rollout across the airline’s Airbus A320 fleet, using a multi-orbit satellite setup and electronically steered antennas to deliver steadier connectivity across Asia-Pacific routes. Music Streaming Access: Apple Music has officially launched in Brunei (along with Pakistan, Albania and Burkina Faso), ending an 11-year wait and bringing the service to 172 countries; the rollout also coincides with an Android app redesign in beta. ASEAN Climate Priorities: Singapore’s Grace Fu says ASEAN should focus on a regional power grid, climate finance and resilience as part of its 2027 chairmanship agenda, amid rising energy-price pressures and climate risks. Regional Digital Trade Rules: ASEAN’s Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is nearing signature, aiming for an open, secure digital future—while civil society groups question how it will affect everyday users. Brunei Tech & Mobility Links: Brunei’s Crown Prince is in Singapore for the Young Leaders’ Programme, with discussions flagged around digital and green economies, finance, defence and food security. Local Tech Business: DHL Express appoints Julian Neo as Managing Director for Hong Kong and Macau; his prior role included managing DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei.

Brunei in the spotlight (Apple Music): Apple Music has officially launched in Brunei after an 11-year wait, joining Pakistan, Albania and Burkina Faso; the rollout brings the service to 172 countries, though Apple TV remains unavailable in Brunei. ASEAN climate push: Singapore’s Grace Fu says ASEAN should prioritise a regional power grid, climate finance and resilience ahead of its 2027 chairmanship, citing survey findings on public concerns and energy shocks. Flexible work growth: IWG (Regus) opened two new co-working spaces in Singapore (OpenOffice and HQ), with demand driven by tech, AI and finance clients. AI security tooling: TrendAI Vision One expanded support for Claude’s Compliance API, adding visibility into Claude Code and Cowork sessions so security teams can investigate prompts, responses and tool calls. Brunei-linked watch drop: Seiko’s limited-edition Prospex “Blue Tears” diver (1,200 units) is sold in select Asian markets including Brunei, with pricing and specs now confirmed. Space tech investment: Oman’s Investment Authority backs Spain’s PLD Space via a private equity fund, supporting future rocket launches from Oman. ASEAN digital trade debate: Coverage highlights growing scrutiny of ASEAN’s Digital Economy Framework Agreement over trust, rights and what it means for everyday users.

Flexible Work in Singapore: IWG (Regus) opened two new co-working spaces—OpenOffice at Fortune Centre (Sept 1) and HQ at 1 Liang Seah Street (Oct 1)—as tech and AI firms keep driving demand for flexi-work. AI Security for Enterprise Teams: TrendAI Vision One™ expanded support for Claude’s Compliance API, now covering Claude Code and Cowork transcripts so security teams can investigate prompts, responses and tool calls tied to users. Roaming That Feels Local: PLDT Smart and Ericsson completed a live demo of Ericsson On-Demand Roaming Breakout, routing data via a US point-of-presence to cut latency and boost streaming speeds for overseas travelers. Brunei-Singapore Youth Links: Brunei Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah met Singapore PM Lawrence Wong during the 12th Young Leaders’ Programme, with talks spanning digital and green economies, finance, defence and food security. ASEAN Digital Trade—Trust Question: ASEAN’s Digital Economy Framework Agreement is set for signing in November, but digital rights groups warn the “borderless” push may raise trust and protections concerns. Space Tech Investment: Oman Investment Authority boosted its space portfolio by investing in Spain’s PLD Space, aiming to support future launch capabilities from Oman. Brunei Market Tech/Consumer: Seiko’s limited-edition Prospex “Blue Tears” diver (1,200 units) is available in select Asian markets including Brunei, with a confirmed Singapore price. Energy Resilience in Singapore/Brunei: Schneider Electric’s report says 94% of Singapore firms plan higher sustainability spending, focusing on energy resilience and efficiency tech. Maritime Protection Milestone: Brunei joined the High Seas Treaty ratifications, pushing the total to 100 parties and enabling future marine protected area decisions. Transboundary Haze Policy Push (Malaysia): Malaysia is studying a dedicated transboundary haze law, looking at Singapore’s approach to tackle cross-border smoke. Cyber Espionage Watch: Reports say Chinese hacking groups reused the same advanced tool across campaigns targeting US aerospace, NGOs and other sectors. Brunei Defence Modernisation Context: Analysis highlights RBAirF plans to expand air defence and fast-jet capabilities alongside newer transport and helicopter fleets.

AI Security in the Enterprise: TrendAI Vision One™ expanded support for Anthropic’s Claude Compliance API, now covering Claude Code and Cowork session transcripts so security teams can investigate AI agent prompts, responses and tool calls tied to verified users. Space Tech Investment: Oman’s OIA boosted its space presence via Spain’s PLD Space through the Spanish-Omani Private Equity Fund II, backing launch-vehicle development including Miura 5 for small satellites. Brunei-Singapore Tech & Green Links: Brunei Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah met Singapore PM Lawrence Wong during the 12th Singapore-Brunei Young Leaders’ Programme, with discussions flagged for digital and green economies, finance, defence and food security. Maritime Security in Brunei: ReCAAP ISC and the Royal Brunei Police Force wrapped a four-day cluster meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan, focusing on early detection, digital port security and using AI for counter-piracy and cross-border operations. ASEAN Digital Trade Trust: ASEAN’s Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is set for signing in November, aiming to unlock a massive digital economy—while rights groups warn trust and safeguards for everyday users remain unclear. Energy Event Watch: India Energy Week 2027 will be held in Kolkata (Jan 28–31), spotlighting energy security and innovation across oil, gas, LNG, hydrogen, biofuels and AI. Local Industry Tech: DHL Express appointed Julian Neo as Managing Director for Hong Kong and Macau, effective Oct 1, with prior leadership roles including DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei.

Indo-Pacific Diplomacy: Xi Jinping’s Washington visit extended a trade truce and kept talks focused on rare earths, AI, Taiwan and Iran, but left major disputes unresolved, while maritime security stayed largely off the agenda. ASEAN Digital Trade: ASEAN’s Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is nearing signature, aiming to boost cross-border digital trade and payments, yet trust and digital rights concerns are rising as civil society questions what it means for everyday users. Brunei-Singapore Links: Brunei Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah met PM Lawrence Wong in Singapore for the 12th Young Leaders’ Programme, with discussions including digital and green economies. Maritime Security in Brunei: ReCAAP ISC and Brunei’s police and maritime stakeholders wrapped a four-day cluster meeting on port security, early threat response, and using AI for counter-piracy. Cybersecurity: Reports say Chinese hacking groups reused the same advanced tool across campaigns targeting U.S. aerospace, NGOs and energy-related firms. Transboundary Haze Policy: Malaysia is drafting a specific haze law modelled on Singapore’s approach, while regional haze continues to disrupt health and daily life. High Seas Protection: Six more countries ratified the High Seas Treaty, bringing the total to 100 parties and setting up the next steps for marine protection beyond national waters.

ASEAN Digital Economy: The ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is nearing signature, with talks pointing to a potential jump in the region’s digital economy from about US$1T to US$2T by 2030—while critics warn the “borderless” push could raise trust and rights concerns. Brunei–Singapore Tech & Green Links: Brunei’s Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah met Singapore PM Lawrence Wong during a visit tied to the Young Leaders’ Programme, with both sides highlighting cooperation in digital and green economies, finance, defence, and food security. Transboundary Haze Policy: Malaysia is considering a specific law to tackle cross-border haze, studying Singapore’s Transboundary Haze Pollution Act model, as smoke continues to disrupt the region. Maritime Security in Brunei: ReCAAP ISC and Brunei’s maritime and police agencies wrapped a four-day cluster meeting focused on early detection, digital port security, and using AI for counter-piracy. Energy Resilience Tech: A Schneider Electric report says Singapore firms are boosting sustainability and energy resilience spending, with most respondents planning higher investment despite uncertainty. Local Tech & Mobility: MG HS PHEV made its Brunei debut at the Borneo Kustom Show, offering up to 120km electric range and low fuel use.

Brunei-Singapore Digital & Green Ties: Brunei Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah is on a five-day visit to Singapore, co-chairing the 12th Young Leaders’ Programme and meeting leaders while touring Tuas Port, SAFTI City, SingHealth Duke-NUS Institute of Biodiversity Medicine, and Punggol Digital District—highlighting cooperation in digital and green economies, defence, and food security. Maritime Conservation Milestone: Six countries, including Brunei, ratified the UN High Seas Treaty, pushing membership to 100 and setting up the first Conference of the Parties in 2027 to decide on marine protected areas beyond national waters. Cybersecurity Watch: Brunei-linked regional maritime security also featured in coverage of ReCAAP’s cluster meeting in Bandar Seri Begawan, where participants discussed AI for counter-piracy and digital port security. Local Tech & Mobility: MG HS PHEV has launched in Brunei, bringing a plug-in hybrid SUV with up to 120km electric range (WLTP), aiming to expand electrified options for drivers. Regional Environment Pressure: Malaysia is drafting transboundary haze legislation after cancelling the Kuching Marathon due to unhealthy air readings, as haze from Indonesia’s fires continues to hit Brunei and neighbours.