Creator-to-court momentum: Philippines tennis buzz is getting a marketing boost of its own as Alexandra Eala’s rise drives a surge in youth participation and racquet demand, with academies seeing parents betting on the next homegrown star. Public-sector tech & learning: Malaysia’s Communications ministry is funding school upgrades under its MADANI Adopted School Programme, adding smartboards, iPads, STEM gear and PA systems—while Bank Negara Malaysia points to policy consistency as key to keeping 2026 growth on track. Health tech without the screen: Garmin’s new Cirqa Smart Band leans into “quiet” wellness tracking—no notifications, no subscription—pushing data review through Garmin Connect. AI meets consumer trust: Toxly pitches an ingredient-scan tool that color-codes “safe to high risk,” aiming to cut through label confusion and greenwashing. Media & IP friction: Japan’s foreign ministry is pressing the U.S. to stop using anime characters like Pokémon and Naruto in political posts without permission. Disaster comms: Colombia’s quake response continues as missing people remain a priority, while Hawaii agencies ramp up for Tropical Storm Lala with stream clearing, dam checks and public alerts. MarCom awards: South Africa’s Bookmark Awards crowned Philipstown WireCar Foundation as Digital Brand of the Year, with Accenture Song and Ogilvy sharing Best Digital Agency. Regulation & surveillance concerns: Mongolia’s justice minister proposal to tie social media access to identity details sparks alarm over a surveillance-style approach.