Brunei Tourism Push: Brunei targets around 1 million tourists and about B$630m in tourism revenue for Visit Brunei Year 2027, with ~400,000 arrivals in the first half of 2026 and a strategy focused on high-value, longer-stay spending. Workforce & Skills: Brunei’s education ministry says AI and automation are reshaping jobs, so it’s updating higher education and TVET via new tech-related curriculum modules, more project-based learning with industry, and stronger graduate employability tracking. Business Climate: Brunei reported a 125% jump in company registrations—354 in 2025 vs 157 in 2024—with 200 already registered in the first half of 2026, supported by the Brunei Economic Development Board. PPP for Growth: Brunei highlighted public-private partnership projects including a 30MW AC solar plant near the capital (aiming to start operations by end-2026) and port efficiency gains via Muara Port Company. Regional Connectivity: Royal Brunei Airlines expanded its codeshare with Turkish Airlines, adding an Istanbul route via Kuala Lumpur to boost access for visitors ahead of Visit Brunei 2027. ASEAN Context: ASEAN leaders marked the bloc’s 59th anniversary with renewed calls for centrality and rule of law amid regional tensions, while a Pentagon official urged Asian allies to raise defence spending. Regional Finance Deal: UOB signed an agreement for Allianz Global Investors to acquire UOB Asset Management, covering UOBAM’s franchise across multiple ASEAN markets including Brunei, with completion expected in 2027.