Semiconductors & Trade Policy: Malaysia is pushing its electrical and electronics push—especially semiconductors and sensors—while tightening export-control compliance to keep Penang and the Northern Region competitive in global supply chains. Housing & Data-Driven Planning: Malaysia’s new National Housing Policy 2026-2035 shifts development toward local needs and market demand to cut unsold homes, aiming for one million affordable units by 2035. Monetary Policy Watch: The Philippines’ central bank says pressure to hike rates has eased as growth slows and inflation cools, but it will keep tightening if core inflation doesn’t stay on track. Public Spending Pipeline: Malaysia’s Economy Ministry expects to finish screening 2027 development spending proposals by mid-August for submission to Finance. UPI Rules: India’s finance ministry says UPI users won’t face transaction charges; any Merchant Discount Rate would be limited to select merchants at a nominal rate. EU Governance: A debate over ending unanimity in EU foreign policy highlights how member states still use vetoes when interests are at stake. Minimum Wage Talks: Serbia’s minimum wage negotiations begin today, with unions pressing for double-digit increases. Energy & Security Link: South Korea orders Gwangju Air Base functions to move by mid-2028 to speed up a second semiconductor belt. Ukraine Cultural Economy: Russia’s strikes have burned millions of Ukrainian books, threatening the publishing industry and national language identity. FCRA Overhaul: India’s FCRA Amendment Bill and updated rules face renewed scrutiny as states and NGOs argue about foreign funding limits. Transport & Growth: Scotland’s bus fare cap debate is tied to congestion costs, with research estimating millions of hours of lost time and tens of millions in annual economic value.