Cross-border Payments: Việt Nam and Singapore launched a cross-border QR payment service, letting Singapore visitors pay at VietQRGlobal points across Việt Nam with real-time currency conversion—aimed at boosting tourism and trade. Tourism & Culture: Pokémon Center Singapore reopened at Jewel Changi after a three-month revamp, with a redesigned heritage-inspired store and 20 Singapore-themed exclusive items. Travel Tech & Hotels: Traveloka signed a multi-year distribution deal with Marriott, giving travellers in Indonesia and Southeast Asia direct access to Marriott’s full portfolio via Traveloka. Aviation Disruption: Airlines are resuming some Middle East flights as diplomatic efforts continue, but many suspensions remain—so travellers should still expect disruptions. Regional Connectivity: West Kalimantan is seeking direct flights from Pontianak to China (Beijing or Guangzhou) to lift tourism and speed up exports like shrimp and crabs. Shipping Costs: Strait of Hormuz traffic is gradually picking up after recent US-Iran strikes, easing shipping costs though volumes remain below pre-war levels. Visa Update (Japan): Japan raised tourist visa fees from July 1, but visa-exempt travellers (including Singaporeans) are generally unaffected. Singapore Travel Talk: A UK tourist’s “worst country” comment sparked a clapback online, with netizens urging visitors to judge Singapore fairly and for short trips only.