Singapore Labour Watch: MOM says retrenchments edged up in Q1 (3,690→3,830) but the labour market stayed broadly stable, with job vacancies still outnumbering unemployed people and hiring/resignations easing. Public Transport Comfort: A commuter complained SMRT’s newer buses feel cramped and have fewer seats for seniors, plus issues like faulty displays and fare scanners. Travel Safety & Disruption: Singapore urged travellers to the Philippines to e-register after a 7.8 quake killed dozens; Singapore stands ready to assist. Air Connectivity: Thailand’s CAAT allocated Winter 2026/27 slots, including Sarawak-owned AirBorneo for Kuching–Suvarnabhumi–Kuching, boosting tourism and links. Cross-Border Payments: India and Nepal launched UPI–NPI instant remittances, cutting reliance on cash and traditional channels for travellers and merchants. Cruise Trends: Dream Cruises is leaning into celebrity-led sailings, with onboard chef-led experiences drawing bookings. Tourism Spotlight: Timor-Leste’s Nino Konis Santana National Park gained UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, strengthening nature-based travel appeal. Travel Costs Pulse: Oil prices fell and markets rallied after US-Iran deal news, likely easing some travel-related cost pressures. Branding & Retail: Elizabeth Arden debuted “Eternal Aura” in Asia Pacific travel retail, with Leighton Meester as campaign face. Travel Protection: Generali unveiled “Redion” as a unified brand for its care, assistance and travel insurance platform. Air Cargo Recovery: Global air cargo volumes rebounded after holiday slowdowns, though rates slipped 1% week-on-week.