Public Transport Upgrade: Brunei’s Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications is studying two models to keep services continuous and accessible—fixed bus routes on main corridors and phased Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) starting with two zones—along with infrastructure upgrades and more tech to improve efficiency. AI-Ready Education: Brunei’s education ministry says automation and AI are reshaping skills needs, so it’s updating higher education and TVET with new technology and sustainability modules, more project-based learning with industry, and data-driven checks using graduate and employer surveys. Digital Governance in Brunei: EVYD Technology backed DFCE 2026, pushing for clearer, risk-based AI governance that speeds up low-risk adoption while keeping high-risk uses tightly controlled, plus stronger compliance and data sovereignty balance. Maritime Growth Focus: Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026 opened with a “Safe Seas, Thriving Economy, Future-Ready People” theme, linking maritime safety, investment confidence, and workforce development. AI for Food in Brunei: Antrique (with Nvidia-powered systems) launched an AI food innovation initiative in Tungku, starting with a 14-hectare coffee plantation using sensors and renewable-powered monitoring to boost productivity. Regional Haze Alert: Indonesia’s wildfires are driving unhealthy air across parts of Malaysia and Singapore, with cloud seeding paused due to lack of rain-bearing clouds. ASEAN Tech & Policy Push: ADB reports the Philippines’ digital economy at 2.5% of GDP, warning that fast fintech growth also brings cybersecurity, fraud, and over-indebtedness risks. Youth Health Policy: Malaysia’s World Youth Foundation urges bans on vape sales after misuse with prohibited substances, noting several countries and Brunei already restrict vaping.