Maldives Ocean Tech & Policy: Maldives Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam says the government is ramping up ocean research and marine resource identification to diversify the economy, protect ecosystems, and tackle climate-driven fish-stock shifts. Local Finance & Inclusion: Bank of Ceylon expands banking access across Sri Lanka’s 331 Divisional Secretariat Divisions, opening a new BOC Connect Agency Banking Centre at Welipitiya to bring tech-driven services closer to communities. Cross-Border Payments: Nepal’s National Payment Interface is now linked with India’s UPI via NCHL, enabling real-time 24/7 remittances using Virtual Payment Addresses, with clear transaction limits. Travel Tech & Industry Events: ITB Asia 2026 returns to Singapore (21–23 Oct) with “Experiences in Motion,” spotlighting how technology is reshaping the traveller journey. Tourism Marine Innovation: Universal Boatyard launches the UNICRAFT 55, a faster, diver-focused multi-purpose vessel built for Maldives dive and excursion operators. AI in Travel Distribution: TripWorks achieves full OCTO certification, aligning with open connectivity standards as AI-powered booking and automation grows. Maldives Conservation in Action: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives runs World Environment Day tree planting and World Ocean Day reef clean-up dives with Euro-Divers Maldives, while Six Senses Kanuhura backs the Lhaviyani Turtle Festival 2026.