GST Pressure on Tourism Sales: MATATO has launched a “TGST Destination Principal Impact Survey” to gauge how the new 17% GST on foreign travel agents will hit pricing, bookings, margins and competitiveness. Tax Delay Move: A Parliament motion seeks to delay the GST amendment, warning it could raise resort prices and hurt a tourism year already under strain. Electricity Bills Relief Talk: Malaysia’s PM Anwar Ibrahim hinted “good news” after a special meeting on higher electricity bills, with targeted protection for households using up to 600 kWh. Parallel USD Crackdown: Maldives Homeland Security and Technology Minister Ali Ihusaan says authorities are intensifying action against unlicensed parallel US dollar trading that can distort unofficial exchange rates. Port & Trade Infrastructure: MPL opened an EOI for a project management consultant for the Thilafushi multi-purpose port, aimed at easing Malé congestion and boosting regional trade. Greening the Islands: Government support is funding nurseries on 10 more islands under the Five Million Trees Programme, with 1.83 million trees planted so far. Tourism Connectivity Boost: Maldivian and Etihad signed a loyalty partnership letting Etihad Guest members redeem miles on Maldivian’s domestic network. Regional Wildlife Enforcement: Maldives joined South Asian pledges to step up coordinated action against illegal wildlife trade, including intelligence and financial investigations.