Defence Modernisation: Singapore has begun preliminary talks with the UK, Italy and Japan on joining the GCAP sixth-generation fighter programme, signalling a possible next step in RSAF planning beyond today’s fleet. Public Service Leadership: Roy Chan will take over as DSTA chief executive from Sept 1, succeeding Ng Chad-Son, as Mindef highlights Chan’s systems and programme delivery track record. Cost-of-Living Support: Singapore will roll out a second S$900m package for households and businesses to cushion Middle East-driven cost pressures, adding to the earlier S$1b and Budget 2026 measures. Security & Compliance: Police will charge a company and director for allegedly providing flag registration services to a UN-sanctioned vessel, underscoring Singapore’s enforcement of DPRK sanctions. Regional Payments Interop: Maldives launched Favara-to-UPI connectivity, joining Singapore (and Nepal) as one of the few countries with live cross-border UPI interoperability. Scam Prevention Push: Groups marked World Day Against Trafficking in Persons with a focus on people trapped behind scams, calling out the call-centre recruitment pipeline. Trade/Shipping Disruption: Airlines are extending Middle East flight suspensions amid renewed US-Iran tensions and drone/strike risks. Corporate Moves: Jardine Matheson reported 9% H1 underlying profit growth and declared a higher interim dividend, while TOP Financial approved a 1-for-5 share consolidation effective Aug 3.