US-China Tech Tensions: The Pentagon updated its blacklist of Chinese firms it says aid the Chinese military, adding Alibaba, Baidu and BYD, while also naming other companies including WuXi AppTec and Unitree—another reminder that tech and geopolitics are colliding fast. China-US Cyber Controls: China urged companies to stop using certain US and Israeli cybersecurity software, while also pushing back against US “suppression” of Chinese firms. South China Sea Tech Flashpoint: The Philippines says it spotted a floating platform that appears to be an antenna at Scarborough Shoal, prompting continued monitoring and diplomatic action. India Energy & Mobility: India launched E85 fuel and a flex-fuel Maruti Suzuki vehicle to cut crude imports and boost ethanol use. India Digital Payments: UPI keeps expanding, but fraud risks like phishing and impostor scams are rising alongside adoption. ASEAN Skills Push: Malaysia plans high-tech TVET programmes and wants instructors trained abroad to build local capability. Climate & Fisheries in the Pacific: Pacific nations are strengthening early-warning work as tuna stocks shift beyond expected zones, with modelling to quantify impacts. AI for Industry: FPT and Amata Group signed an MoU to drive AI transformation across industrial parks in Southeast Asia. Thermal Tech Funding (India): Bengaluru startup Helionis Labs raised pre-seed funding to develop printable materials for better heat management in power electronics.