Maritime Safety & Accountability: Vanuatu PM Jotham Napat has cancelled his UN General Assembly trip to stay in-country as the search continues for up to 30 people missing after the MV Matui ferry tragedy, saying the situation “could have been minimised or avoided” and vowing action. He’s also moved the Vanuatu Maritime and Safety Authority (VMSA) functions to the Office of the Prime Minister to strengthen emergency coordination, resources and authority. Search & Rescue Update: Authorities say at least two people have died, with 14 survivors rescued so far, and efforts shifting from open waters toward the south-east coastline where currents may have carried people. Warnings vs Action: Vanuatu’s meteorology chief says warnings were issued days ahead, but the department can’t stop vessels going out—highlighting a gap between forecasts and real-world decisions by operators and authorities. Regional Travel Impact: The disaster is also renewing attention on how Pacific inter-island travel safety affects tourism confidence and visitor planning. Tourism Development (Outer Islands): The Department of Tourism completed a mission to Aneityum and Futuna, pushing products beyond cruise days—homestays, hiking, agritourism and conservation—plus guidance on permits, standards and marketing. Medical Tourism (Neighbouring Hub): Fiji’s PSH Hospitals is drawing cardiac patients from across the region, including Vanuatu, with angiography and stent procedures delivered near Nadi airport.