Financial Inclusion: Brunei’s central bank says over 80% of the population now has access to formal financial services, but stresses the need to pair inclusion with stronger financial literacy as National Financial Literacy Day 2026 rolls out. Workforce Development: UBD’s 11th Career Fair is drawing nearly 50 Bruneian companies and organisations, with sessions aimed at helping students build skills for an AI-driven workplace. Regional Trade & Halal: Sabah’s BIMP-Eaga trade conference is pushing wider Halal opportunities for Mindanao MSMEs, linking producers with certification bodies, buyers and investors. Capital Markets: Pakistan’s QistBazaar raised PKR 500 million via a privately placed Sukuk to expand Shariah-compliant consumer financing and reduce reliance on bank funding. ASEAN Business Climate: ASEAN is set to sign the Digital Economy Framework Agreement at a summit in the Philippines, covering data governance, AI cooperation, digital identity, cybersecurity and digital trade. Cross-Border Risk: Indonesia’s Borneo wildfires and haze are worsening across the region, with hazardous air quality prompting school disruptions and health advisories in parts of Malaysia and beyond. Trade Policy Watch: UK businesses gain full CPTPP access after Canada completes ratification, with Brunei included among member markets. Mobility Rules: Thailand will cut visa-free stays for many travellers from 60 to 30 days from Sept 15, affecting tourism planning across the region.