Highest-level diplomacy: President José Ramos-Horta awarded Indonesia’s former leader Megawati Soekarnoputri Timor-Leste’s top civilian honor, praising her role in normalizing relations after independence. Regional tech readiness: An ILO report flags Timor-Leste among ASEAN countries with relatively low readiness for generative AI, pointing to gaps in digital infrastructure and institutions. Manpower and mobility: Singapore’s PM Wong reiterated plans to open selected sectors to East Timorese workers from 2027, alongside deeper cooperation on manpower, healthcare, and ASEAN integration. Energy and investment: HotCopper reports Timor-Leste-linked oil development momentum after Finder Energy said officials approved the Kuda Tasi and Jahal field development plan, clearing a key regulatory step. Sports and identity: Cambodia’s women’s team has Timor-Leste in its AFF Women’s Cup 2026 group, with the opener set for July 13 in Kuala Lumpur. Community mission: Australian couple Suzanne and Brenley Milsom received Timor-Leste’s Medal of Merit for more than a decade of church and education support.