Indo-Pacific Arts & Media Diplomacy: Timor-Leste’s Secretary of State for Social Communication Expedito Loro Dias Ximenes joined ASEAN media leaders at Malaysia’s HAWANA 2026 in Penang, underscoring the region’s push to strengthen communication ties. Regional Culture & Creative Work: Russia and ASEAN adopted the Kazan Declaration, expanding cooperation through 2030, including cultural cooperation and workforce training across design, fashion, visual and performing arts, music, cinema, animation, and documentary filmmaking—Timor-Leste included. Climate Risk for Timor-Leste: The UN’s FAO and WFP appealed for $202m to protect 8.8 million people in 22 high-risk countries from El Niño impacts, listing East Timor among the most vulnerable. Film & Journalism Spotlight: A new write-up highlights “Steal This Story, Please!” and “Your Attention Please,” both pushing audiences toward independent journalism and safer, more accountable media ecosystems. Sports Legacy in the Region: ARTsurnon’s mural at the Naliyagan Festival honors late basketball star Rene Clert “Bobet” Baterbonia, turning a sports story into lessons on humility and perseverance.