Manpower & Jobs: Singapore will open more labour channels to East Timor starting next year, including construction, marine shipyard and selected manufacturing and services roles, aiming to ease Singapore’s manpower crunch while giving Dili a path to better use its young workforce. Energy & Commodities: Oil jumped again after US-Iran talks broke down, pushing Brent back near US$79 and adding pressure to commodity-linked stocks, a reminder that regional energy costs can swing fast. Oil & Gas Development: HotCopper spotlighted Finders Energy after Timor-Leste officials approved the Kuda Tasi and Jahal offshore field development plan, clearing a key regulatory step toward final investment decisions. Shipping & Logistics: Swire Shipping expanded in Southeast Asia with a Dili office, signaling more regional connectivity for trade and services. Bilateral Infrastructure/Health: Timor-Leste and China signed an implementation agreement for the Timor-Leste–China Friendship Hospital, while Singapore also moved to strengthen economic ties and exchanges with Dili. Skills & Training: Australia’s Pacific Australia Skills programme will support skills development in Fiji and Timor-Leste (2025–2029), focusing on employment outcomes and locally led training systems.