Visa & mobility updates: Thailand has extended visa-free stays for Maldivians to 30 days after tightening its broader visa-free rules, with the change set to take effect once published in the Royal Thai Government Gazette. Culture & arts: Chiang Mai is turning Chang Moi into a creative street-art zone, channeling graffiti complaints into a formal public arts programme that aims to boost local shops and make the area a cultural stop. Northern travel & lifestyle: Ezy Airlines plans a new Chiang Mai–Mae Hong Son route starting in September, with “Fly & Stay” style packages to connect flights with local tourism. Performing arts spotlight: Fah Lanna Art Museum staged “Ink: Neo Lanna Dance,” a contemporary reworking of Lanna movement that uses live music and audience participation to rethink body, memory, and breath. Education & tech entrepreneurship: Assumption University co-hosted “Let’s Build Something,” introducing students to AI-assisted “vibe coding” and prototype-building with Lovable Ambassador Thailand and AttraX. Public finance & trust: DSI arrested Malika Maksalud linked to a forex investment scam tied to QRS Education Co Ltd, alleging aggressive return guarantees and manipulated trading signals. Human rights & asylum: Human Rights Watch urged Thailand to halt deportation of four Chinese dissidents detained in Bangkok, warning Beijing pressure could send them to persecution.