Maritime Security in Focus: Brunei and other regional navies joined formation drills and medical evacuation exercises under ADMM-Plus EWG-MS in waters off Zambales, with 11 ships from eight countries participating and Japan leading search-and-rescue efforts. Regional Disaster Response: Indonesia’s “Trident Resolve” disaster exercise brings together 19 countries with 2,200 personnel across cyber security, humanitarian aid and disaster relief, and military medicine, testing coordination for scenarios like earthquakes, eruptions and tsunamis. Wildfire Fallout: Indonesia is still battling major forest fires and haze, while Malaysia steps up support; Indonesia also says electricity pricing talks are ongoing for the ASEAN Power Grid. Brunei-Linked Diplomacy: Russian FM Sergey Lavrov is set for dozens of UN General Assembly meetings, including talks with Brunei among other countries. Brunei in Regional Tech & Trade: ASEAN and Hong Kong signed a protocol to amend the ASEAN–Hong Kong Investment Agreement, aiming for stronger legal protection and investment flows. Local Interest: Lexus Brunei unveiled the all-new ES 350h hybrid sedan, while Toyota Brunei held Fortuner Day for owners and families. Sports Spotlight: Asian Games Day 5 action features Mirabai Chanu’s weightlifting final and India’s men’s badminton semifinal against China.