Offshore Energy & Engineering: Timor-Leste’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has selected TDI-Brooks (with Taka Hydrocore Indonesia) for a light geotechnical and environmental baseline survey offshore to support the Greater Sunrise TLNG gas export pipeline and the Bayu-Undan Pipeline Highway, with field work due to start mid-January 2027. Oil & Gas Regulation: Autoridade Nacional do Petróleo approved Finder Energy’s Environmental Impact Statement for the Kuda Tasi and Jahal (KTJ) offshore oilfields, setting the environmental framework as the project moves toward final investment decision. Mining & Exploration: Estrella Resources says new assays at its Laleno Dome project confirm copper mineralisation in porphyritic rocks and report strong copper-gold results, expanding the number of copper hotspots. Water Security & Climate Risk: Timor-Leste-linked regional coverage highlights how utilities are preparing for El Niño impacts; UNSW also trained Timor-Leste staff and students on water catchment surveying for improved food and water security. Regional Connectivity & Policy: Japan published a list of 17 countries approved for its technical intern training programme, including East Timor, while ASEAN leaders urged stronger regional power-grid planning and climate finance for resilience. Tourism & Media: Viking Sunset Studios is bringing Bali films to the Dili International Film Festival, boosting cultural and tourism visibility for Dili.