Offshore Oil: Finder Energy signed an estimated US$42.3 million contract for Eneos Drilling’s Hakuryu-5 rig to drill three development wells at the Kuda Tasi and Jahal project. Work is scheduled to start in late 2027, subject to approvals. Chuditch Gas: Sunda Energy won a 12-month extension for its offshore licence after regulator ANP warned the contract could be terminated over missed drilling commitments. The extra time allows Sunda, state-owned TIMOR GAP and ANP to negotiate a plan for the Chuditch-2 appraisal well, potentially including a TIMOR GAP stake increase and operator change. Greater Sunrise: President José Ramos-Horta says the first gas-project agreements could be signed early next year. The proposed pipeline and LNG development promise jobs and investment, but commercial doubts remain. Energy Supply: Ramos-Horta says costly diesel power is deterring investors and argues oil and gas development is needed to support economic diversification, including a green economy. Regional Disruption: Indonesian wildfire haze forced school closures in Timor-Leste and has affected flights elsewhere in the region, underscoring risks to daily services and transport.