Measles Alert in Maldives: The Health Protection Agency confirmed 22 measles cases in Greater Malé, with two more detected this week; 543 contacts were identified and 173 are still under monitoring, prompting a public vaccination drive starting today for frontline healthcare workers and children under 18, with further phases planned for under-30 and under-49 groups. Tobacco Policy Shift: Parliament’s Whole House Committee approved a government-backed proposal to cut import duties on cigarettes and other tobacco, lowering the per-stick duty from MVR 8 to MVR 4 and reducing the ad valorem tax from 100% to 30%, while exempting smoking-cessation products like nicotine gum and patches. Health Budget Focus: Bangladesh’s health budget for 2026-27 prioritises disease prevention and healthcare reforms over unplanned hospital construction, aiming to improve life expectancy while protecting essential services including healthcare. Renewables for Island Power: A Maldives microgrid plan will reduce diesel dependence on Himandhoo Island by pairing solar-diesel hybrid equipment with flow battery storage to improve reliability during extreme weather. Wellness & Community Diving: Nova Maldives marks Women’s Dive Day (17–19 July) with a three-day programme led by Zoona Naseem, the first Maldivian PADI Course Director, plus marine biologist Jenna Lehocki, featuring beginner-friendly dives and reef-focused talks. Family Resort Recognition: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi was ranked No. 2 in Maldives for Best Family Resorts in Travel + Leisure Asia Pacific, highlighting multi-generational wellness and shared “island sanctuary” experiences.