Education & STEM: Maldivian students pulled off a rare sweep at the 2026 Young Mathematical Story Authors contest, taking first place in every age category (4–7, 8–11, 12–16) across 34 countries, with the competition rewarding math literacy through storytelling and creative writing. Digital Payments: India and Cambodia launched UPI-based QR payments, letting Indian travellers pay at 4.5 million Cambodian KHQR merchants, with a second phase planned for Cambodian travellers using UPI in India—another step in UPI’s growing cross-border footprint that already includes Maldives. Marine Tech & Climate: A study warns mangrove forests may start losing carbon storage as sea levels rise and habitats shrink, raising the stakes for coastal protection. Sustainable Transport (Maldives): Navier plans to bring 100 zero-emissions hydrofoil boats to the Maldives, starting with five in 2026, aiming to connect airports, resorts, villas and local islands via a “software-driven” maritime corridor. Cyber Safety (Maldives): President Muizzu proposed banning children under 16 from certain social media apps to curb cyberbullying and grooming, with consultations and a rollout targeted within a year. Tourism Tech & Space: Le Méridien Maldives unveiled a stargazing programme with Space Cat, adding solar observation and guided night sessions to island experiences. Health Trend Watch: “Stem cell tourism” is trending online, but the story highlights the real risks and costs behind overseas clinic treatments.