National Security Courts: Macau will hold its first closed-door national security trial next week, with the appeals court ordering proceedings behind closed doors in the case against former pro-democracy lawmaker Au Kam San, set to begin Sept 16. Hengqin Education Push: Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai met Shenzhen officials and reiterated plans to upgrade the Macao-Hengqin International Education (University) Town into an industry-academia-research platform, while O Lam briefed associations on the 2026-2030 social and culture priorities, including the Hengqin education town and the integrated tourism and cultural zone. Customs Crackdown: Macao Customs intercepted 23 smuggling cases in a week worth about 2.98 million patacas, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, beauty products, second-hand smartphones, spirits, and designer goods. IP Enforcement: Customs logged 17 intellectual property infringement cases (34 suspects) in Jan-Aug, citing patrol intensification and a big-data anti-counterfeiting system. Tourism & Culture: The 34th Macao International Fireworks Display Contest opened with a drone show and international fireworks teams, running through Oct 4, while Na Tcha temples launched a World Na Tcha Folk Belief Culture Festival to promote intangible heritage. Local Governance & Society: Macau’s government is consulting on a new law to overhaul rules for civic associations, proposing tougher oversight, clearer dissolution mechanisms, and national security checks. Sports & Events: WTT Champions Macao 2026 concluded with Truls Moregard and Miwa Harimoto winning singles titles. Gaming Revenue: Macau gaming tax took MOP 7.83 billion in August, down 8% year-on-year but up versus July.