Mental health in Laos has long been overlooked. Due to the limited educational opportunities and resources related to mental health in the country, the population is less exposed to these issues and often lacks awareness. This is especially true for older generations, who did not have access to the resources available on the internet or social media.
However, the younger generation is becoming more aware of mental health issues, driving a slow but steady rise in demand for mental health services.
One of the leading mental health support initiatives in Laos is “Gamlangchai,” a community-based (locally focused) mental health organization founded in 2020. Gamlangchai’s mission is to create safe spaces for the Lao community, with a particular focus on young people.
The organization promotes mental health awareness in schools, providing training for non-mental health specialists (those without formal training in mental health), and organizing peer support programs. These programs help individuals share knowledge on self-care (taking steps to maintain personal health) with the wider community.
Phatsaline “Pan” Vongsaly, co-founder of Gamlangchai and a mental health advocate, observed that only a small portion of the Lao population is aware of mental health issues. However, she noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought greater awareness, as more people began experiencing mental health challenges, regarding them as “more common than anybody had thought.”
“When COVID-19 came, I feel like everybody, regardless of who you are, where you work, or your current mental state, all got through some mental health challenges from the pandemic,” she said. “Whether it’s quarantine, adjusting to life while working from home, or people losing their jobs, you face a lot of uncertainty.”
She added that these challenges have prompted organizations worldwide, including in Laos, to integrate mental health programs into their agendas.
Pan also highlighted several initiatives aimed at addressing mental health in Laos, such as Reach Out Laos, which introduced mental health hotline services. She further noted that organizations like the World Health Program have supported local groups, including the Lao Women’s Union and Lao Youth Union, in incorporating mental health services into their work.
Recognizing the ongoing need for support, Pan drew from her experience working with the World Health Organization to create her own safe space, Gamlangchai.
“The insights I gained from professional work inspired me to begin my own advocacy journey,” she said.
Overcoming Stigma and Misunderstanding
Despite efforts to establish facilities that support mental health in Laos, a significant barrier remains: the fear of stigma, according to Pan.
“For example, if you have a fever or a broken arm, why would you go to the doctor right away? Because it’s visible, isn’t it? You can clearly see the problem and feel comfortable going to the clinic, getting medication, and following the doctor’s advice,” she explained, drawing a parallel between physical and mental health.
“But when it comes to mental health challenges, even though the younger generation is more aware of these issues, the stigma and discrimination they may face from their communities still prevent many from seeking the support they need,” she continued.
Pan emphasized that because mental health issues are often invisible, many people mistakenly label those experiencing symptoms as “lazy” or “crazy.”
“We use these terms so casually that we don’t realize how they might impact someone with mental health disorders,” she said, offering an example of how even basic tasks, like taking a shower, can feel overwhelming for someone with depression.
She also pointed out common misconceptions about mental health terminology. For instance, mood shifts from sadness to happiness can be inaccurately labeled by layman’s understanding as bipolar disorder due to a non-professional understanding. It’s important to note that only qualified mental health professionals can accurately diagnose mental illnesses.
“The words we use when discussing mental health disorders matter,” she said.
This issue has motivated Pan, through Gamlangchai, to focus on educating the public about the correct terminology for mental health conditions.
In addition to the stigma that discourages many from seeking help, Pan highlighted that the affordability of mental health services is another significant barrier. She pointed out that mental health challenges often arise before the age of 25, a time when many are not yet financially stable.
Addressing Life-Threatening Mental Health Crises
Facing these challenges, some individuals may feel overwhelmed by their frustration, pain, and suffering, which can tragically lead to thoughts of taking one’s own life. When asked if the current economic crisis in Laos contributes to this, Pan explained that while it can exacerbate stress, it’s not the only cause
According to Pan, individuals without a strong support system may struggle more deeply, but genetic predisposition to mental illness also plays a significant role. On the other hand, some people, despite facing similar hardships, may cope more positively if they have developed resilience, often shaped by their upbringing.
Discussing the factors behind thoughts of ending one’s life, Pan emphasized the complexity of the issue, noting that it often involves an interplay of biological, psychological, and social elements. The reasons for such thoughts can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, including pre-existing mental health conditions, experiences of bereavement, and past traumas.
To help identify whether someone is struggling, Pan suggested that loved ones should observe any changes in behavior and look out for signs like a person no longer participating in activities they usually enjoy.
“You don’t go to exercise anymore. You don’t really love the job that you are passionate about. These are signs that a person can intervene,” Pan said, emphasizing that early intervention is key. “You don’t need to wait until someone harms themselves.”
Building on this, Pan stressed that individuals going through tough times often just need someone to listen. When people feel supported and have a safe space to share their struggles, they are more likely to open up.
She emphasized the need for those offering support to be prepared for potentially difficult discussions. It’s essential to approach these conversations thoughtfully, she noted, suggesting that individuals ask questions like, “Are you okay? What’s happening? I’m genuinely concerned about you,” to convey their care and willingness to help.
Nevertheless, Pan recognized that everyone experiences mental health challenges with varying levels of severity. While some may find comfort in talking to loved ones, others might need professional help, such as therapy sessions, to properly address their needs.
Building Support Networks: Peer Support and Mental Health Care in Laos
A positive aspect of Lao culture is its strong emphasis on collectivism, where people frequently support one another in daily life. This sense of community creates a solid foundation for the psychological well-being of the population. Ketsada Soysouvanh, known as Nicky, who serves as a School Counsellor and Group Safeguarding Lead at Panyathip British International School in Vientiane and is a co-founder of Gamlangchai, highlights this beneficial aspect.
As a teacher, Nicky also emphasized that teachers and educators play a crucial role as mental health gatekeepers for young people. However, many schools in the Lao community are not adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet these expectations.
Building on this, and recognizing the limited mental health support facilities available, she together with the Gamlangchai team introduced in Vientiane, Laos a method called “peer support.” This approach guides individuals within a community to develop basic compassionate communication and listening skills, fostering mutual understanding and care.
“Just like physical first aid is a basic skill, mental health requires its own form of first aid,” Nicky noted. The aim of peer support programs is to connect individuals facing similar mental health challenges, helping them feel heard, validated, and hopeful in their recovery journey. This approach fosters a sense of community, reassuring participants that they are not alone and that support is available to help them navigate life’s difficulties.
Nicky explained that providing community based mental health promotion and prevention programs is the mission of Gamlangchai, particularly through peer support programs to address the lack of specialized mental health services in Laos. Echoing Pan’s earlier statement, she stressed that those offering support must recognize their own limits. Listening to others’ problems can take a toll on the listener’s mental health as well.
“Once you start to feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a break and let someone else take over,” Nicky advised, comparing the practice to the safety instructions on an airplane: “You should put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.”
While the peer support method proved to be beneficial, Laos also offers assistance facilities run by the government to help those in need.
According to Nicky, mental health consultations can be accessed at both 103 Hospital and Mahosot Hospital in Vientiane Capital.
However, for individuals in other provinces, particularly in rural areas with limited mental health support, she recommended contacting several hotlines. These include the Lao Women’s Union hotline at 1362, which operates 24/7, as well as the Counseling and Protection Center for Women and Children at 021 771 302 03.
Additionally, the Lao Youth Union hotline at 1554 and the Vientiane Youth Clinic can be reached at 1361 for females and 137 for males.
While access to professional care remains limited, particularly in rural areas, efforts are being made to provide services and hotlines to those in need. Ultimately, tackling mental health issues in Laos requires a collective effort from individuals, communities, policymakers, and organizations to create a more supportive environment for those struggling with mental health challenges.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/10/breaking-the-silence-a-new-era-for-mental-health-care-support-in-laos/
Breaking the Silence: A New Era for Mental Health Care, Support in Laos
Mental health in Laos has long been overlooked. Due to the limited educational opportunities and resources related to mental health in the country, the population is less exposed to these issues and often lacks awareness. This is especially true for older generations, who did not have access to the resources available on the internet or social media.
However, the younger generation is becoming more aware of mental health issues, driving a slow but steady rise in demand for mental health services.
One of the leading mental health support initiatives in Laos is “Gamlangchai,” a community-based (locally focused) mental health organization founded in 2020. Gamlangchai’s mission is to create safe spaces for the Lao community, with a particular focus on young people.
The organization promotes mental health awareness in schools, providing training for non-mental health specialists (those without formal training in mental health), and organizing peer support programs. These programs help individuals share knowledge on self-care (taking steps to maintain personal health) with the wider community.
Phatsaline “Pan” Vongsaly, co-founder of Gamlangchai and a mental health advocate, observed that only a small portion of the Lao population is aware of mental health issues. However, she noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought greater awareness, as more people began experiencing mental health challenges, regarding them as “more common than anybody had thought.”
“When COVID-19 came, I feel like everybody, regardless of who you are, where you work, or your current mental state, all got through some mental health challenges from the pandemic,” she said. “Whether it’s quarantine, adjusting to life while working from home, or people losing their jobs, you face a lot of uncertainty.”
She added that these challenges have prompted organizations worldwide, including in Laos, to integrate mental health programs into their agendas.
Pan also highlighted several initiatives aimed at addressing mental health in Laos, such as Reach Out Laos, which introduced mental health hotline services. She further noted that organizations like the World Health Program have supported local groups, including the Lao Women’s Union and Lao Youth Union, in incorporating mental health services into their work.
Recognizing the ongoing need for support, Pan drew from her experience working with the World Health Organization to create her own safe space, Gamlangchai.
“The insights I gained from professional work inspired me to begin my own advocacy journey,” she said.
Overcoming Stigma and Misunderstanding
Despite efforts to establish facilities that support mental health in Laos, a significant barrier remains: the fear of stigma, according to Pan.
“For example, if you have a fever or a broken arm, why would you go to the doctor right away? Because it’s visible, isn’t it? You can clearly see the problem and feel comfortable going to the clinic, getting medication, and following the doctor’s advice,” she explained, drawing a parallel between physical and mental health.
“But when it comes to mental health challenges, even though the younger generation is more aware of these issues, the stigma and discrimination they may face from their communities still prevent many from seeking the support they need,” she continued.
Pan emphasized that because mental health issues are often invisible, many people mistakenly label those experiencing symptoms as “lazy” or “crazy.”
“We use these terms so casually that we don’t realize how they might impact someone with mental health disorders,” she said, offering an example of how even basic tasks, like taking a shower, can feel overwhelming for someone with depression.
She also pointed out common misconceptions about mental health terminology. For instance, mood shifts from sadness to happiness can be inaccurately labeled by layman’s understanding as bipolar disorder due to a non-professional understanding. It’s important to note that only qualified mental health professionals can accurately diagnose mental illnesses.
“The words we use when discussing mental health disorders matter,” she said.
This issue has motivated Pan, through Gamlangchai, to focus on educating the public about the correct terminology for mental health conditions.
In addition to the stigma that discourages many from seeking help, Pan highlighted that the affordability of mental health services is another significant barrier. She pointed out that mental health challenges often arise before the age of 25, a time when many are not yet financially stable.
Addressing Life-Threatening Mental Health Crises
Facing these challenges, some individuals may feel overwhelmed by their frustration, pain, and suffering, which can tragically lead to thoughts of taking one’s own life. When asked if the current economic crisis in Laos contributes to this, Pan explained that while it can exacerbate stress, it’s not the only cause
According to Pan, individuals without a strong support system may struggle more deeply, but genetic predisposition to mental illness also plays a significant role. On the other hand, some people, despite facing similar hardships, may cope more positively if they have developed resilience, often shaped by their upbringing.
Discussing the factors behind thoughts of ending one’s life, Pan emphasized the complexity of the issue, noting that it often involves an interplay of biological, psychological, and social elements. The reasons for such thoughts can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, including pre-existing mental health conditions, experiences of bereavement, and past traumas.
To help identify whether someone is struggling, Pan suggested that loved ones should observe any changes in behavior and look out for signs like a person no longer participating in activities they usually enjoy.
“You don’t go to exercise anymore. You don’t really love the job that you are passionate about. These are signs that a person can intervene,” Pan said, emphasizing that early intervention is key. “You don’t need to wait until someone harms themselves.”
Building on this, Pan stressed that individuals going through tough times often just need someone to listen. When people feel supported and have a safe space to share their struggles, they are more likely to open up.
She emphasized the need for those offering support to be prepared for potentially difficult discussions. It’s essential to approach these conversations thoughtfully, she noted, suggesting that individuals ask questions like, “Are you okay? What’s happening? I’m genuinely concerned about you,” to convey their care and willingness to help.
Nevertheless, Pan recognized that everyone experiences mental health challenges with varying levels of severity. While some may find comfort in talking to loved ones, others might need professional help, such as therapy sessions, to properly address their needs.
Building Support Networks: Peer Support and Mental Health Care in Laos
A positive aspect of Lao culture is its strong emphasis on collectivism, where people frequently support one another in daily life. This sense of community creates a solid foundation for the psychological well-being of the population. Ketsada Soysouvanh, known as Nicky, who serves as a School Counsellor and Group Safeguarding Lead at Panyathip British International School in Vientiane and is a co-founder of Gamlangchai, highlights this beneficial aspect.
As a teacher, Nicky also emphasized that teachers and educators play a crucial role as mental health gatekeepers for young people. However, many schools in the Lao community are not adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet these expectations.
Building on this, and recognizing the limited mental health support facilities available, she together with the Gamlangchai team introduced in Vientiane, Laos a method called “peer support.” This approach guides individuals within a community to develop basic compassionate communication and listening skills, fostering mutual understanding and care.
“Just like physical first aid is a basic skill, mental health requires its own form of first aid,” Nicky noted. The aim of peer support programs is to connect individuals facing similar mental health challenges, helping them feel heard, validated, and hopeful in their recovery journey. This approach fosters a sense of community, reassuring participants that they are not alone and that support is available to help them navigate life’s difficulties.
Nicky explained that providing community based mental health promotion and prevention programs is the mission of Gamlangchai, particularly through peer support programs to address the lack of specialized mental health services in Laos. Echoing Pan’s earlier statement, she stressed that those offering support must recognize their own limits. Listening to others’ problems can take a toll on the listener’s mental health as well.
“Once you start to feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a break and let someone else take over,” Nicky advised, comparing the practice to the safety instructions on an airplane: “You should put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.”
While the peer support method proved to be beneficial, Laos also offers assistance facilities run by the government to help those in need.
According to Nicky, mental health consultations can be accessed at both 103 Hospital and Mahosot Hospital in Vientiane Capital.
However, for individuals in other provinces, particularly in rural areas with limited mental health support, she recommended contacting several hotlines. These include the Lao Women’s Union hotline at 1362, which operates 24/7, as well as the Counseling and Protection Center for Women and Children at 021 771 302 03.
Additionally, the Lao Youth Union hotline at 1554 and the Vientiane Youth Clinic can be reached at 1361 for females and 137 for males.
While access to professional care remains limited, particularly in rural areas, efforts are being made to provide services and hotlines to those in need. Ultimately, tackling mental health issues in Laos requires a collective effort from individuals, communities, policymakers, and organizations to create a more supportive environment for those struggling with mental health challenges.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/10/breaking-the-silence-a-new-era-for-mental-health-care-support-in-laos/
Educators Convene in Laos to Boost Rural Learning Access
The Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Community Education Development (SEAMEO CED) hosted the 6th International Seminar on Community Education Development in Vientiane to address issues in the education sector and tackle the challenges of improving access to quality education in rural areas.
້Held on 27 September, The seminar brought together educators from six countries—Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Timor-Leste to discuss and develop solutions to the pressing issues facing education in remote regions.
The gathering served as a platform for researchers, educators, policymakers, and administratorsAttendees shared lessons drawn from their research, with a particular focus this year on overcoming obstacles such as global citizenship education, environmental health concerns, and the impact of climate change.
Topics like pollution, clean water access, and other environmental factors that directly affect education in these underserved areas were central to the discussions.
Lao Deputy Minister of Education and Sports, Samlane Phankhavong, stressed the significant role education plays in sustainable development, particularly in rural areas where access to quality education is limited. He emphasized that improved education could transform communities, lifting standards of living while reducing inequality and instability in society.
This collective effort, he noted, not only aims to bridge the gap in educational access but also strives to raise the overall quality of education for those in underserved regions.
Recently, Lao is facing teachers shortage and less of enrollment in school including National University of Laos is experiencing a drastic decline in student enrollment, with numbers falling from 15,000 in 2016-2017 to just 5,457 in 2024, as well as Bolikhamxay Province is facing a critical shortage of teachers, with a need for 413 more educators, while in Savannakhet over 500 teachers are needed to fill vacancies across the province.
Through these partnerships, educational outcomes can be significantly elevated, creating long-term benefits for both students and the broader society.
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Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/09/educators-convene-in-laos-to-boost-rural-learning-access/
Laos Named Cheapest Travel Destination in 2025
Canada’s financial product site, HelloSafe, has revealed that Laos is the cheapest country to visit in the year of 2025 among the 136 countries around the world.
According to the website, the daily living cost in Laos is as cheap as EUR 10 (USD 10.97), followed by Kazakhstan at EUR 14 (USD 15.37). Rwanda and Ghana each have a daily cost of EUR 16 (USD 17.56), while Mongolia rounds out the top five with costs at EUR 18 (USD 19.74).
Laos, Mongolia and Georgia are also the top three countries with the most affordable accommodation in the world, with prices ranging from EUR 6 (USD 6.58) to EUR 13 (USD 14.27) per night.
Conversely, the top five countries with the most expensive to travel to are Barbados EUR 261 (USD 286.44) daily budget, followed by Antigua and Barbuda at EUR 244 (USD 267.78), and Saint Kitts and Nevis at EUR 215 (USD 235.95).
These data are based on travelers’ expenses in each country, including food, accommodation, and local transportation within the country.
In Laos specifically, during the first eight months of 2024, the country attracted a total of 2.6 million international tourists, with Thai travelers making up the largest group, according to the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism.
The Lao government is optimistic about the future of tourism, setting a target to welcome at least 4.6 million international visitors in 2024, with projected revenue of USD 1.3 billion.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/07/laos-named-cheapest-travel-destination-in-2025/
Laos and South Korea Deepen Agricultural Cooperation in Key Areas
Laos and South Korea have strengthened agricultural cooperation, focusing on modernizing Laos’s farming sector and boosting ties within ASEAN.
On 30 October, South Korea’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Song Miryung, met with Laos’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Linkham Douangsavanh, in South Korea, to discuss bilateral agricultural collaboration as well as wider cooperation between South Korea and ASEAN.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the amendment of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on agricultural cooperation between the two countries. This newly expanded MOU aims to strengthen joint efforts, with a focus on modernizing Laos’s agricultural sector through advanced technologies, such as smart farming, improving seed development, and infrastructure.
During the talks, Minister Linkham emphasized the importance of agriculture in Laos, particularly in the Mekong River region, where many rely on farming for their livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Minister Song highlighted South Korea’s ongoing support, such as the development of irrigation facilities and knowledge-sharing programs, and expressed hope that the expanded MOU would lead to significant outcomes for both nations.
Looking ahead, as South Korea celebrates 35 years of ASEAN dialogue relations in 2024, this enhanced collaboration is expected to further strengthen agricultural development and food security across the region, with Laos playing a central role as ASEAN Chair.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/03/82280/
Laos Suspends Public Activities to Facilitate ASEAN Summit
The Lao government has issued a notice announcing the cancellation of activities within Vientiane Capital, including teacher’s day activities for schools in Saysettha district to ensure peace and security during the upcoming ASEAN Summit.
Effective from 1 to 20 October, the suspension applies to all events organized by sports associations, as well as activities in both the private and public sectors, including companies, hospitals, factories, and any public spaces within Vientiane Capital.
To further facilitate the summit and ensure smooth traffic and a high level of security, the government will also deploy officers from the Ministry of Public Security in areas where traffic is expected to be hectic, including around the National Convention Centre where the summit will be held.
The Ministries of National Defense and Public Security will also join forces and station personnel in every village and district to monitor the overall situation and ensure against violations of these regulations.
According to the government, further updates will be provided in future announcements.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/03/laos-suspends-public-activities-to-facilitate-asean-summit/
Lao Durian Sector to Focus on Export Growth to China
On 24 October, government officials, agricultural experts, and representatives from the private sector gathered to discuss enhancing the Lao durian sector for export to China, where demand for this tropical fruit is rapidly increasing. The talks aimed to improve both the production and quality of Lao durians, making them more competitive in the international market.
Attendees also explored strategies for expanding durian farming and optimizing logistics to meet Chinese import standards. A key highlight was China’s offer of a 98 percent tax exemption on durian exports, which presents a substantial opportunity for Laos to strengthen its position in the export market.
During the meeting, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry emphasized the need for quality control measures and certifications that align with Chinese regulations to ensure long-term success in the export market.
Participants also discussed how to support local farmers by providing better farming techniques and resources, as well as forming partnerships with Chinese distributors. Improving farmers’ skills will enhance durian quality and increase their income.
Laos boasts ideal conditions for durian cultivation, and experts believe that with the right investments and training, the country could substantially increase its durian exports.
However, it faces stiff competition from established producers like Malaysia and Vietnam, as well as Thailand, which is planning to develop 20,000 to 30,000 rai of land for durian farming. With similar agricultural conditions and lower labor costs, Laos has the potential to emerge as a new competitor in the Southeast Asian durian export market.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/28/lao-durian-sector-to-focus-on-export-growth-to-china/
Japan Supports School Improvements in Bokeo to Reduce Dropout Rates
The Government of Japan has awarded a grant of USD 107,000 to improve schools in Bokeo Province, Laos, with the goal of reducing student dropout rates.
On 24 October, Japanese Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu signed a grant contract with Somphit Chanthavong, Director of the Office of Education and Sports for Huayxay district, in Vientiane. The event was attended by Khamphaya Phompanya, Vice Governor of Bokeo Province.
This funding will be used to construct a new school building and toilet facilities for Toup Kindergarten and Primary School. It will also provide school furniture and relocate the school to higher ground to safeguard it from floods.
Bokeo Province is highly vulnerable to flooding, which disrupts school attendance and damages infrastructure, according to the World Bank. Reports show that Laos faces severe educational challenges in the province, including dropout rates of 30 to 40 percent, particularly in villages that do not offer access to grades 4 and 5.
In the 2023–24 academic year, over 5,000 children dropped out of primary, lower, and upper secondary schools in Bokeo Province, as reported by the provincial education department earlier this year. Factors contributing to this alarming dropout rate include the long distance to schools, lack of student dorms, financial hardships prompting children to work, and a perception that further education is not valuable.
The province has seen a total of 5,781 children drop out, with a decline of 654 enrollments in lower and upper secondary schools compared to the previous year. Poor school management, teacher shortages, and insufficient cooperation among educators, parents, and officials further discourage school attendance.
In response, the Bokeo Provincial Education and Sports Department plans to collaborate with local authorities to improve employment opportunities, enhance school attendance awareness, and upgrade school infrastructure. These efforts align with the government’s goal of improving education quality and increasing enrollment nationwide, as highlighted by a significant drop in university enrollments from over 9,000 in the 2020–21 academic year to 6,688 in 2023–24. The Lao government is committed to addressing these challenges through various projects in its National Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2021-2025.
Since 1992, Japan has contributed over USD 1 million to projects in Bokeo Province, focusing on education, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/25/japan-supports-school-improvements-in-bokeo-to-reduce-dropout-rates/
Cambodia Withdraws from Development Pact with Laos, Vietnam
Cambodia has officially withdrawn from the regional development pact with neighboring Laos and Vietnam. The decision was announced by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet on 20 September, citing concerns about national sovereignty and increasing political opposition.
The Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Triangle Development Area (CLV-DTA) was established in 1999 and took effect in 2004 to develop 13 border provinces including four in Cambodia, five in Vietnam, and four in Laos. The agreement focused on poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and trade enhancement. While it has contributed to regional collaboration, Cambodia’s withdrawal raises questions about the pact’s future.
Prime Minister Manet cited rising domestic concerns that the CLV pact compromised Cambodia territorial sovereignty, specifically regarding the country’s northeastern provinces. In his announcement, Manet referenced political extremists using the pact as a tool to attack the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) for allegedly ceding land to Vietnam. To “disarm the extremists” and respond to growing public outcry, Cambodia decided to withdraw from the agreement.
The controversy surrounding the pact gained traction on social media and led to protests in August, both in Cambodia and among Cambodian communities abroad. This pressure prompted the government to rethink its participation in the development initiative.
Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the cooperation mandate had been fulfilled, and each country can now manage its own development.
Cambodia’s decision may be seen as an effort to address domestic political pressures while marking a shift in its regional relations, potentially affecting Southeast Asian cooperation.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/02/cambodia-withdraws-from-development-pact-with-laos-vietnam/
Lao Government Increases Minimum Wage to Combat Rising Living Costs
The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare has announced a new minimum wage policy, aiming to support workers facing economic challenges due to rising living costs and the depreciation of the Lao kip.
Under the new regulation, employers in the private sector, including production, business, and service units, as well as the household sectors are required to pay a minimum monthly wage of LAK 2.5 million (USD 114), effective on 1 October.
This wage increase applies to all workers earning less than the set threshold, excluding overtime, welfare payments, and other benefits.
Additionally, a subsistence allowance of LAK 900,000 (Approximately USD 41) will be provided to unskilled workers without formal education or training, ensuring that everyone receives fair compensation.
Employers who currently pay below the new wage must adjust salaries accordingly, while those already meeting or exceeding the minimum wage are encouraged to maintain their pay standards.
Previously, the minimum wage was LAK 1.6 million per month (approximately USD 75). However, with the cost of living rising sharply, the government has deemed it necessary to further support workers across the country.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/02/lao-government-increases-minimum-wage-to-combat-rising-living-costs/
Lao Team Shines at Global Robotics Challenge, Achieves Historic 6th Place
The Champa Maker team from Laos achieved 6th place out of 193 at the First Global Challenge Robotics Competition Held in Athens, Greece, from 26-29 September.
Competing against top robotics teams from around the world, the Lao team demonstrated exceptional skills and determination, earning recognition on the global stage.
“This is the first time our team has made it this far into the finals, and I couldn’t be more proud of our young contestants from Laos,” said Khanthanou Luangxaysana, an engineering professor at the National University of Laos and a Champa Maker team mentor. “They showcased their ability to think critically and innovate using STEM principles, from designing robot mechanisms to managing and solving complex problems during the competition.”
The competition saw fierce battles in both the Ranking Matches and Round Robin Matches.
In the Ranking Matches, the Champa Maker team won 8 out of 12 matches, accumulating a score of 789 points, securing their spot among the top 32 teams in the Round Robin phase.
In the Round Robin Matches, the team won one match out of four, finishing with 557 points.
“Every match required careful strategic planning and strong communication to maximize our points,” Professor Khanthanou added. “Our team learned that having a solid strategy and working together were crucial to success in each round.”
Preparing for the competition, the team invested time in researching, calculating, and planning using STEM concepts.
“Our goal was to merge theory with hands-on practice, ensuring that when problems arose, the team could troubleshoot and resolve them efficiently,” Khanthanou said.
These results solidified the Lao national team’s position in the top 10 globally, marking the country’s best-ever performance in the Robot Global Challenge.
“Bringing STEM education to Lao youth is a key mission of the Champa Maker Club,” he said. “We aim to create opportunities for young people to learn how to use science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to systematically analyze and solve problems. This competition experience is helping shape the next generation of leaders who will drive Laos forward.”
The First Global Challenge Robotics Competition is held in a different country each year. The event aims to promote collaboration and problem-solving skills among youth, addressing global challenges in engineering and technology.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/01/lao-team-shines-at-global-robotics-challenge-achieves-historic-6th-place/