Defence & Tech Diplomacy: India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh says Vietnam has already signed for BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles (not yet publicly announced), while Indonesia’s deal is in the final stages—highlighting how advanced defence tech and partnerships are becoming a key regional lever. Regional Security: Vietnam’s top leader To Lam tells Reuters it “does not pick sides,” arguing stronger ties with China can coexist with progress on South China Sea disputes under international law. Maritime Trade Rules: ASEAN defence ministers at the Shangri-La Dialogue reaffirmed the need to uphold UNCLOS transit passage and keep trade flowing through corridors like the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. Local Innovation in Brunei: Brunei’s AITI says the TechXplore Digital Apprenticeship Program is building ICT employability and global exposure aligned with Brunei Vision 2035. AI for Real-World Farming: DST Innovation Awards spotlights BumiTrust’s AI-powered soil monitoring and produce safety certification, showing Brunei’s push toward tech-enabled agri solutions. Currency Modernisation (India): India’s central bank revives a pilot for polymer banknotes, aiming to cut replacement costs and extend note lifespan. Fraud-Fighting Infrastructure: Global Signal Exchange (GSE) is showcased at ScamReady ASEAN as a real-time platform to make online scams less profitable, with major tech firms involved. Transport & Industry (Sarawak): Sarawak will prioritise the Bintulu–Samalaju rail link as the first phase of its Trans-Borneo Railway plan to support low-carbon industrial growth and cargo volumes.