Maldives Cave Tragedy: An animation has recreated the final moments of five Italian divers lost in a Maldives cave near Alimathaa Island, with recovery data used to map the last phases of the expedition; the operation also reportedly cost the life of a Maldivian rescuer due to decompression sickness. Digital Safety for Youth: President Mohamed Muizzu says the Maldives will ban children under 16 from accessing certain social media platforms, targeting apps seen as risky for cyberbullying and online grooming, with consultations and a framework planned within a year. Local Tech & Connectivity: Dhiraagu was named “Telco of the Year – Small Markets” at the Twimbit Telecom Awards 2026, highlighting network and customer experience wins as the company marks nationwide mobile and fibre coverage across inhabited islands. Energy Tech for the Islands: AirPlus Renewables is preparing to launch XEVA, an “EDGEWIND Tech” turbine designed to generate power closer to where it’s used, with deployments planned including the Maldives. Tourism Tech Trade: Visit Maldives endorsed TechEng 2026 (6–8 Oct, Hulhumalé), a B2B exhibition focused on engineering and smart infrastructure for hospitality, including energy, water, and digital systems. Travel Payments Upgrade: Commercial Bank of Ceylon introduced 3DS 2.x authentication for UnionPay e-commerce transactions, aiming to strengthen secure online payments in the region. Global Spotlight on Maldives Creators: Maldivian artist Raya Mansoor made Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026 (arts), after growing Oevaali Art Shop from a local brand into an international design presence.