Border Control Modernisation: Japan has donated 48 facial recognition systems to Maldives Immigration for Velana International Airport, aiming to speed up identity checks and strengthen border security. Marine Protection Rules: New vessel regulations for South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) will require official registration and installed propeller guards from 30 June, with enforcement by Marine Rangers and Maldives Police to prevent wildlife and tourist accidents. Regional Diplomacy: Maldives and Bangladesh reaffirmed closer bilateral cooperation after a phone call between their foreign ministers, including coordination in multilateral forums. Governance Reform Debate: MDP chair Mohamed Nasheed renewed calls for “The Big Change,” arguing the 2008 Constitution failed to separate powers and pushing for stronger independence of courts and commissions. Public Service Media & Culture: Visit Maldives Corporation and Public Service Media partnered to expand Creatoll, integrating PSM’s audiovisual archives to help preserve and sell Maldivian creative content. Health Budget Focus: Bangladesh’s health budget for 2026-27 prioritises disease prevention and reforms over unplanned hospital construction, with allocations nearly doubling. Maritime Partnerships: Indian Navy ships INS Ikshak (Seychelles) and Udaygiri/Kavaratti/Shakti (Thailand) arrived for port calls focused on interoperability, professional exchanges, and community outreach.