Tourism & Identity: A new feature frames Timor-Leste as a “new tourism frontier,” noting low visitor numbers today but faster change ahead—airport upgrades, new hotels and roads, and a Dili waterfront convention centre as the country prepares to chair ASEAN in 2029. Culture on Screen: The ASEAN Film Festival 2026 opens 20 August in Hong Kong with Timor-Leste making its first appearance, plus free screenings and a programme of 30+ films linking film and music. Peacekeeping Memory: Timor-Leste’s government met Australia to advance the INTERFET Memorial in Dili, with the former heliport near Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace identified as the site and a timeline discussed. Regional People-to-People Links: Timor-Leste is also named among participants in an Indonesian Arts and Culture Scholarship, using cultural exchange to connect ASEAN youth. Work & Rights: The Council of Ministers reviewed Australia’s PALM labour mobility scheme, including plans to reach 10,000 Timorese workers by 2028 and ongoing concerns around protecting workers’ rights and coordination. Education & Community: A week of coverage also highlights how local groups keep building leadership and support through education and health partnerships in Lacluta.