ASEAN STI Push: Malaysia urged ASEAN to build a more integrated, mission-driven science, technology and innovation ecosystem at the AMMSTI-22 meeting in Vientiane, linking regional research to energy transition, food security, public health and climate resilience. Bangladesh-China Connectivity: Beijing proposed a Bangladesh-Myanmar-China economic corridor to boost multimodal transport and trade, with Xi also backing stronger partnership language and Dhaka’s sovereignty after 17 MoUs signed during PM Tarique Rahman’s China visit. Malaysia-China Tourism Boom: Malaysia is betting on Chinese visitors—counting on visa-free travel, more flights to smaller Chinese cities and a digital push—to reach 7 million Chinese tourists in 2026. Japan World Cup Nerves: Japan reached the knockout stage after a 1-1 draw with Sweden and now faces Brazil in Houston, with players warning of a “higher gear” needed for a tough test. China-AI Security Concern: A new open-weight Chinese AI model is sparking cybersecurity worries over advanced capabilities and the risk it could be modified for harmful uses. South Korea Drone Shift: Seoul plans to accelerate “drone warrior” training, but faces constraints from shrinking conscription and the challenge of sourcing drones without Chinese components. Trade Pressure on Beef: China’s quota system is already biting as Australia’s annual beef quota is filled and Brazil is close, clouding second-half prices and market access.