Climate & heat risk: An Oxford study flags Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok and Samut Prakan among the world’s highest heat-risk cities as El Niño concerns rise, warning that heat stress is driven by humidity, urban heat and outdoor work. Coral reefs under pressure: A reef-focused explainer ties warming seas and El Niño to more frequent bleaching, noting reefs cover under 0.1% of the ocean floor but support a huge share of marine life and livelihoods across Asia and the Pacific. South-West Pacific climate impacts: A World Meteorological Organization report says 2025 was the region’s second-warmest year, with marine heatwaves, rising sea levels and worsening extreme weather threatening ecosystems and coastal communities. PNG Pacific “Ocean of Peace” push: PNG PM James Marape urges major powers to keep the Pacific off-limits to missile tests and weapons trials, linking peace to environmental stewardship under the Blue Pacific Continent vision. Regional security flare-up: Australia, Fiji and Solomon Islands leaders condemn China’s missile test, with Papua New Guinea also among those criticising the launch and calling for less nuclear risk. Local resilience & services: In PNG, Santos Foundation backs early childhood education in Hela and a solar mini-grid for healthcare in Southern Highlands, boosting reliable power for clinics. Tourism planning data: PNGTPA and NCDC launch a National Capital District accommodation inventory survey to improve Port Moresby event readiness and tourism investment decisions. Community economy: Hiri-East opens a buying-point facility and Dogu market to connect farmers to buyers and lift household income. Health & safety awareness: A PNG-focused piece warns pensioners are prime targets for scams after receiving large superannuation payouts.