Reading Nation Push: Malaysia’s National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang says making the country a “Reading Nation by 2030” can’t be government-only, calling for a whole-society push that turns reading into understanding and creativity. Culture & Diplomacy: Qatar’s delegation joined an Uzbekistan conference on Islamic cultural heritage, framing cultural exchange as a bridge for science and dialogue between civilizations. Higher-Education Under Pressure: A new op-ed argues authoritarian regimes target universities for their cultural power—because campuses are where critique and dissent live. Pop Culture & Identity: Australian influencer Matilda Baxter hits back at trolls after “Barbie waist” surgery, calling out group-chat cruelty and insisting people can change without being reduced to a spectacle. Arts, Heritage, and Access: Paphos begins mapping tourism accessibility barriers to build an integrated plan for beaches and cultural sites. Community Events: Cork’s Culture Night 2026 returns with 150+ free events across the county, from music in unusual venues to Irish-language programming. Art World: Three paintings were stolen from France’s Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer after an early-morning break-in.