Festival Tech & Community: Davao’s Kadayawan showdown on Aug. 16 is getting a connectivity boost, with Globe saying it strengthened network capacity along the Coastal Road so crowds can share photos and use online services. Pop Culture, New Generations: Beijing acrobat Bing Bing’s “clown tosses an apple” routine is hitting a new wave of fame, racking up 6M+ likes on Douyin. Late-Life Creativity: A viral trend in China lets everyday visitors—especially older tourists—try acting in costume and leave with a professionally edited short drama video. Security Media for the Internet Age: Cybercrime Magazine launches a “Platinum Media Program” for cybersecurity firms, pitching YouTube reach to CISOs and security leaders. Culture Meets Policy: GNWT says it doesn’t support four MLAs’ Taiwan trip, arguing it doesn’t match its strategic trade and investment priorities. Arts & Identity in Public Spaces: Malaysia’s ECRL stations are being designed as heritage showcases, from motifs in Kota Bharu to wave-and-boat themes in Kuala Terengganu. Music Spotlight: Afrobeats star Ayra Starr’s “Starrgirl” drops today, with the rollout framed around self-trust and tuning out internet noise. Climate & Public Access: COP17’s Green Zone opens to the public with 480+ activities, projects, panels, films, and cultural performances. Online Body Image Debate: Jenna Ortega’s resurfaced comments about skipping meals as a child actor are reigniting scrutiny of her current thinness online. Local Weekend Culture: Auckland’s weekend calendar includes NZ Fashion Week and World Photography Day photo walks, plus free community events.