Labour Exploitation Claims: Timor-Leste worker Deonizio Martin Soares says an Australian farm job under the PALM scheme left him with just $1,500 savings after being made to repay major costs and work only half his visa tenure. Maritime Law: Cambodia is pushing compulsory conciliation under UNCLOS against Thailand, arguing the legal route is needed after Thailand withdrew from a long-running maritime deal. ASEAN Energy Pressure: Coverage highlights how regional energy security is cracking under higher LNG prices and chokepoint risks, turning fuel costs into a political and fiscal headache. Greater Sunrise Momentum: Timor-Leste’s Greater Sunrise and Tasi Mane project is moving from sovereignty deadlock toward infrastructure deadlines, with the LNG cooperation shift with Woodside cited as a turning point. Budget Watch: Dili’s Council of Ministers approved a first amendment to the 2026 state budget to cover higher fuel prices and other new costs, lifting the total by about US$101.1 million. Regional Recognition: President José Ramos-Horta received a Doctor Honoris Causa from Charles Darwin University, underscoring his peace and stability role.