Brunei–Italy Tech & Defence Link-Up: The first Italy–Brunei Industry Day in Bandar Seri Begawan brought together 14 Italian firms in defence, security, advanced technology, and AI, showcasing capabilities from maritime/underwater security and critical infrastructure protection to cybersecurity and mission communications, with Brunei defence leadership backing an “ecosystem of capabilities” approach. Hybrid Rice Boost: Brunei’s Agriculture and Agrifood Department launched a one-year expert advisory programme (with China technical assistance) to strengthen rice breeding and hybrid seed production, including plans for a hybrid rice research centre and wider adoption of hybrid rice tech. Oil & Gas Restoration Tech: SLB won a Brunei Shell Petroleum contract to restore production from shut-in offshore wells, covering subsurface evaluation, well selection, engineering, intervention services, monitoring, metering, and marine logistics. Maritime Policy Watch: A Brunei shipowner warned that imposing new international maritime rules could stifle the young local shipowning sector, urging regulators to balance compliance with industry development needs. Regional Digital IDs: Asean-focused push highlights how digital IDs can speed up cross-border verification for licences, qualifications, and business authorisations. South China Sea Tech Tension: Satellite imagery reports new radar/early-warning-style installations near Antelope Reef, while regional analysis points to more “gray zone” tactics and rapid militarisation around key features in the Philippines’ EEZ.