Maritime Security: Malaysia commissioned KM BENDAHARA, a former USCG cutter, to boost enforcement and readiness in Sabah and the South China Sea. Typhoon Disruption: China evacuated 340,000 people as Typhoon Noul neared Guangdong; rail and other transport services were suspended, with Hong Kong issuing top-tier warnings and shelters opened. Red Sea Shipping Risk: A NYT shipping-data analysis says vessels keep transiting Bab el-Mandeb despite Houthi threats, but more ships are turning back or rerouting amid uncertainty. Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s IRGC reportedly fired at four commercial ships to force course changes; India says an LPG tanker attack left its 28 crew safe. Antitrust & Travel Tech: China fined Trip.com/Ctrip 5.179 billion yuan over online hotel-booking monopoly practices, ordering refunds and rectification. Cross-border Payments: BPI is piloting stablecoin-based rails with Meridian to speed up and cut costs for overseas freelancer payroll into the Philippines. Clean Rail Trial: India’s first hydrogen train completed a 1,200 km run between Jind and Sonipat, cutting diesel use by 3,200 litres and emitting only water vapour. Road Safety Pressure (India): A Delhi crackdown on youth exam-leak protests included tear gas and baton charges, while separate reporting highlights India’s ongoing road-fatality crisis.