Ocean Research & Policy: Maldives plans to boost ocean research and marine resource mapping to diversify the economy, with Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam linking the push to climate impacts on fish stocks and the need for value addition and aquaculture. Environment Funding: President Muizzu will allocate $454,000 annually from the Maldives Green Fund for environmental protection, covering protected areas, conservation, research, awareness, and capacity-building. Marine Conservation on the Ground: Marriott Maldives’ apprenticeship programme graduates 40 local trainees across hospitality roles, while Anantara’s marine biologist marks 10,000th baby coral planting—both spotlight skills and reef restoration. Regional Tech & Payments: Nepal’s NCHL connects to India’s UPI for 24/7 cross-border remittances using VPAs, launching June 9 with transaction limits and bank eligibility. Clean Energy Debate: Civil society groups urge ADB to stop funding waste-to-energy and other “false solutions,” arguing they worsen pollution and human rights harms. Tourism Tech: TripWorks earns OCTO certification, aiming for standardized connectivity for AI-driven booking across tours and activities. Digital Learning & STEM: Maldivian students sweep top prizes in a global math contest, reinforcing STEM momentum. Global Tech Culture: Japan shares anti-counterfeit training with customs officers abroad, including participants from the Maldives.