Cabinet reshuffle and succession planning: Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah announced a major government shake-up, appointing Prince Abdul Mateen as Foreign Minister and Prince Abdul Malik as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, while creating new coordinating ministerial roles—moves widely read as preparing for the next generation of leadership. Digital Brunei 2030: The Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications convened a national dialogue to turn the Digital Brunei 2030 plan into measurable, citizen-focused outcomes, building on connectivity, digital payments and national digital identity. Blue economy push: Ocean Week Brunei 2026 was launched at UBD under “Ocean of Opportunities,” spotlighting marine conservation, sustainable ocean livelihoods and future blue economy growth. Transport & security cooperation: Brunei joined a new multi-country framework, GUIDE, to share best practices and improve early warning and response for damage to critical underwater telecom and energy infrastructure. Sports tourism: Labuan kicked off its first-ever international 42km full marathon, drawing over 3,300 runners from 16 countries. Arts & culture: Ocean Week’s launch sits alongside Brunei-linked regional entertainment news, including the international rollout of Chinese Teochew drama “Dear You,” with Brunei among the first territories.