ASEAN & Diplomacy: Indonesia’s Megawati Soekarnoputri received Timor-Leste’s highest civilian honor, with President José Ramos-Horta citing her role in normalising bilateral relations after independence. Regional Security: Commentary on New Zealand’s push to build new alliances highlights a growing “Ocean of Peace” and mutual defence consultation obligations—an issue that will matter to small states in the Indo-Pacific. Energy & Investment: Timor-Leste’s petroleum regulator ANP approved Finder Energy’s Kuda Tasi and Jahal offshore oilfield development plan, clearing the way toward a final investment decision. Digital & Governance: A UNDP piece argues the Pacific’s blue economy needs stronger digital infrastructure and financial architecture to make fisheries and marine livelihoods more resilient to climate shocks. Labour & Accountability: In the Philippines, groups renewed calls to hold Vice President Sara Duterte accountable over Article IV allegations tied to impacts on workers, farmers and Indigenous communities—an echo of how accountability debates are shaping regional politics. Sports: Timor-Leste is drawn in Cambodia’s AFF Women’s Cup 2026 Group B, setting up a key opener on July 13.