Opioid Access: A new report says Indonesia’s strict narcotics policy is limiting patient access to essential therapeutic opioids, even though the country’s essential medicines list includes morphine, fentanyl and others—while Timor-Leste is reported to have far higher medical opioid use. Malaria Milestone: WHO has certified Timor-Leste malaria-free, citing interrupted local transmission for at least three years and praising political will, interventions, investment and dedicated health workers. Health Workforce & Education Links: Timor-Leste is offering an MBBS pathway for Indian students (about Rs 18 lakh), with more than 600 students already enrolled and partnerships with Dili universities. Regional Security & Training: Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea discussed security cooperation for PNG’s 2027 election and a joint scholarship plan that could expand Timorese study in areas like tropical medicine. Livestock Health (Brucellosis): A community-led project in Timor-Leste is improving brucellosis prevention through safer handling of births, better awareness, vaccination pilots, and stronger links to veterinary services. Public Health Policy: The Council of Ministers approved measures affecting civil service recruitment and hiring “temporary workers,” with exceptions for healthcare professionals justified by staffing shortages.