India’s Protest Crackdown: A court ordered the release of youth protest leaders detained during demonstrations over alleged voter-roll deletions, while police restrictions and arrests of protesters and journalists drew concern from the UN. Opposition parties plan further action over the disputed revisions. Pacific Social Protection: Governments across the region are using welfare payments and fuel and transport subsidies to shield households from surging energy costs, which are raising food and travel expenses and disrupting access to school and healthcare. Southeast Asia Aid: Australia provided $1.1 billion in aid to Southeast Asia in 2024, holding its support steady as regional development funding fell nearly 10% and other traditional donors cut back. Japan and the ICC: Tokyo reaffirmed its support for the International Criminal Court and the rule of law, saying US sanctions on the court run counter to Japan’s position. Maritime Security: India condemned attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz; two Indian seafarers were reported missing, prompting New Delhi to call for de-escalation and safe passage for commercial shipping. Malaysia-China Ties: Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid begins a five-day visit to China, with talks expected on trade, investment, technology and vocational training.