Maritime Security: PNG’s neighbours are accusing Chinese vessels of spoofing and unauthorized activity, with the Philippine Coast Guard flagging possible AIS spoofing by the research ship Jia Hai Ke 7 off Batanes and warning it may be tied to sensitive undersea work. Gender & Climate Water: Pacific advocates say women are being shut out of water decisions, driving wider gendered climate impacts; research highlights PNG among the places where women’s knowledge isn’t reaching meeting rooms. AI Governance in PNG: DICT says PNG will embed AI principles into existing digital laws, not rush a standalone AI law, as AI adoption accelerates. Election Readiness Tech & Systems: The PNG Electoral Commission is moving to crisis management for 2027 election readiness, citing under-resourcing, financial mismanagement, and slow adoption of modern tech. Science & Innovation: PNG’s eighth National Science Research and Technology Conference in Goroka showcased practical innovations—from renewable energy and health to digital projects—moving beyond paper-only presentations. Infrastructure Jobs: Madang’s Northern Coastal Highway repairs are creating local jobs and boosting women’s participation, with training built into the works. Health Access via Telemedicine: Katim Tasol’s “Lighthouse” rural model is testing telemedicine and continuous training to reduce professional isolation in remote PNG health facilities. Regional Tech Leadership: Neville Choi has been elected PINA president, pushing fact-checking and verification as new tech reshapes Pacific media. Earthquake Update: A 5.2 quake hit New Britain Region, Papua New Guinea, according to GFZ.