Maritime Security: The Philippines and India have locked in preparations for Asean-India Maritime Exercise (AIME 2026), running Sept. 28–Oct. 2 in Philippine waters, with Timor-Leste among the 11 Asean participants—aimed at boosting coordination and interoperability for safer seas. Biodiversity Under Threat: A new study warns the Timor green pigeon is nearing extinction, estimating only 100–500 birds remain, with hunting and weak recovery efforts blamed. Community vs Mining: In Macambol, residents and indigenous landowners say a weeks-long blockade against Hallmark Mining continues as they demand direct dialogue on mining operations and governance concerns. Tourism & Environment Access: Timor-Leste launched a redeveloped tourism website (timorleste.tl) with an interactive map, eight languages, and an AI chat assistant to help visitors explore the country’s natural and cultural sites. Marine Conservation: Women-led mangrove restoration in the Coral Triangle highlights community action to protect coasts, fisheries, and biodiversity across the region. Air Quality Watch: Haze-linked pollution in Malaysia has pushed multiple stations into unhealthy and very unhealthy Air Pollutant Index readings, driven by low rainfall and fires.