Tourism push in Dili: Timor-Leste has broken ground on a major International Convention Centre in the old port area, with a pier promenade, aquarium, Ferris wheel and entertainment zone planned—aimed at boosting events and tourism ahead of the 2029 ASEAN Chairmanship. ASEAN integration momentum: The country also keeps positioning itself as an Indo-Pacific gateway, while ASEAN officials reaffirm support for Timor-Leste’s regional role. Regional policy talk: Development partners gathered to discuss Timor-Leste’s Blue Economy, ASEAN integration and coordinated action. Marine science spotlight: A global Ocean Census reported 1,121 new marine species, underlining the stakes for conservation in the Coral Triangle. Local culture & youth: From Palarong Pambansa chess dreams in Mindanao to Timor-Leste-linked cultural participation, the week’s stories keep pointing to young talent and community energy. Note: This week’s Timor-Leste coverage is strong on diplomacy, tourism and marine themes, with fewer hard domestic policy updates than usual.