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Savannakhet Faces Critical Teacher Shortage

Teacher in Laos (Wikimedia Commons)

A critical shortage of teachers is plaguing the education system in Savannakhet, threatening the quality of education for hundreds of students. Over 500 teachers are needed to fill vacancies across the province, particularly in rural areas where the lack of educators is most acute.

New Critical Illness Plan by HL Assurance Aims to Bridge Insurance Gaps for Singaporeans


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2024 – There is a critical problem in Singapore: critical illness (CI) coverage, or a lack of it, even in 2024. Many Singaporeans are vulnerable to financial strain from critical illnesses as they are underinsured.

HL Assurance KV

The Life Insurance Association (LIA) of Singapore, which promotes financial literacy and sets industry standards, published a Protection Gap Study in 2023 and found these to be the reasons:

  • The complexity and wide variety of CI policies make it confusing for consumers.
  • Many people deprioritise CI insurance, thinking they won’t be affected.
  • High premium costs.
  • Standalone CI policies typically do not offer cash value upon surrender or maturity.
  • It is difficult to assess what adequate coverage is due to the wide range of critical illnesses.

What people may not realize about CI coverage

LIA found that the CI protection gap was 74% as of 2022. This number represents the average shortfall between the money needed for a critical illness event and an individual’s insurance coverage.

The average critical illness coverage needed for an economically productive adult in Singapore is around S$316,603, but the average existing coverage is only S$59,776, a substantial shortfall​​ of S$264,586.

Recovering from a critical illness goes beyond immediate medical expenses: ongoing household expenses, debt repayments, and other daily costs. LIA’s study estimates that it takes about five years to recover financially without insurance coverage. The sheer sum of these expenses can be emotionally distressing and lead to long-term financial instability for patients and their families.

Early Protect360 Plus effectively addresses these issues

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, as everyone’s needs are unique, Early Protect360 Plus is an affordable, inclusive solution designed to cover as many key areas as possible. Here are reasons why you should consider Early Protect360 Plus for your CI needs:

Comprehensive early and advanced-stage coverage

Early Protect360 Plus offers comprehensive coverage for both early and advanced stages of critical illnesses and checks the essential boxes for severe conditions, including coverage for life-threatening conditions like:

  • all major cancers
  • advanced stage heart attacks
  • strokes with lasting effects
  • end-stage kidney failure, and
  • coronary artery bypass surgery

But this plan also includes early-stage conditions such as:

  • early thyroid or prostate cancers
  • heart valve surgery
  • brain aneurysm surgery, and
  • keyhole coronary bypass surgery

Prioritising early detection aligns with Singapore’s Healthier SG movement, which encourages Singaporeans to manage their healthcare proactively. There’s a good incentive here: Early-stage critical illness expenses are significantly cheaper than late-stage critical illness treatment costs, and adopting a proactive approach to health might pay off handsomely in the long run.

For example, based on the Ministry of Health (MOH) fee benchmarks, early-stage colon cancer treatments can cost approximately S$14,000, while late-stage interventions can cost up to S$48,000. These are ballpark figures, of course, but they show how much more expensive late-stage treatments are. Moreover, the chances of effective and quicker recovery are significantly higher at the early stage.

The bottom line is that comprehensive coverage for early and late-stage conditions at an affordable premium is a win-win.

High-benefit payouts and unique ICU coverage

One of Early Protect360 Plus’s standout features is its high-benefit payouts. The policy offers up to $300,000 coverage, with a 100% benefit payout for covered critical illnesses. Additionally, it provides an extra 20% payout for intensive care unit (ICU) stays, up to $25,000. This payout does not reduce the CI benefit limit and is unique to Early Protect360 Plus.

This thoughtful provision ensures that policyholders have additional financial support during extended hospital stays while retaining the full benefit limit for critical illness treatments.

Ease of enrollment and renewal

By simplifying qualifications, Early Protect360 Plus ensures more people can access critical illness coverage. This policy removes a barrier for those put off by the expense and time needed for mandatory medical examinations. All you need is to answer three simple health declaration questions.

Unlike many competitors, the policy is also renewable up to age 99, providing many seniors with long-term protection now that life expectancy and retirement age have risen significantly.

Affordable premiums and flexible payments to fit your budgeting

Early Protect360 Plus offers flexible payment options and attractive limited-period discounts to encourage Singaporeans to bolster their insurance coverage. Policyholders have options for monthly, annual, or lump sum payments, allowing them to manage their finances according to their preferences and financial situation.

The ongoing launch discounts are also an added incentive, with a 20% discount on the base premium. Policyholders can enjoy additional discounts, with another 5% discount if they pay annually or a further 10% off with a lump sum payment. Even if you sign up after the launch offer expires, you are still eligible for a 10% discount on the base premium.

Broad eligibility to get more people covered

Early Protect360 Plus has broad eligibility criteria and is available to Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, and holders of various valid passes (employment pass, work permit, dependent pass, long-term visit pass). So long as you are between the ages of 18 and 65 upon application, the policy is renewable up to age 99, ensuring that many individuals benefit from its comprehensive coverage.

Sign up for Early Protect360 Plus

In the face of rising healthcare costs and the financial challenges posed by critical illnesses, Early Protect360 Plus is a handy shield against unforeseen circumstances with a robust safety net. Its comprehensive coverage, high benefit payouts, ease of enrollment, flexibility, and broad eligibility make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking easily accessible, thorough protection.

Whether you are a young professional, a breadwinner with dependents, or someone with a family history of critical illnesses, consider Early Protect360 Plus to secure your health and financial well-being today. Visit the Early Protect360 page for more information, or sign up here.

Hashtag: #HLAssurance

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

HL Assurance

HL Assurance is a member of the Hong Leong Group, a leading conglomerate with diversified businesses in banking and financial services, manufacturing and distribution, property development and investments, hospitality and leisure, and principal investment with a presence in Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. As a licensed general direct insurer and a member of the General Insurance Association of Singapore, HL Assurance offers a broad spectrum of insurance products, including car, travel, home contents, and fire insurance.

Arla Foods Ingredients launches new high-protein dairy campaign


TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2024 – Arla Foods Ingredients has launched a new campaign to inspire dairy manufacturers to create innovative high-protein products.

Arla Foods Ingredients
Arla Foods Ingredients

Over four in ten consumers globally say protein is the most important ingredient.[i] However, conversations around the vital nutrient are changing, with health-focused shoppers increasingly focusing not just on how much protein they consume, but also its nutritional quality. Manufacturers of high-protein products can also face challenges around differentiation, processing, taste and texture.

The ‘Go High in Protein’ campaign showcases the Arla Foods Ingredients Nutrilac® ProteinBoost range of patented microparticulated whey proteins, which are rich in all the essential amino acids. It demonstrates how they can be used to overcome technical challenges and create high-protein dairy products with appealing taste and texture.

At the heart of the campaign is a new virtual protein seminar, featuring presentations from expert speakers and a ‘Test your protein knowledge’ quiz.

Visitors can also explore five concepts featuring Nutrilac® ProteinBoost. They include two new recipes – an ambient spoonable yoghurt, and an ambient drinking yoghurt which recently won a World Dairy Innovation award for best manufacturing/technology innovation. They demonstrate the potential for high-protein dairy products that do not require refrigeration, creating opportunities for convenience, long shelf life and easier transportation.

The three other recipe concepts are a 10% protein ice cream, a high-protein non-fat drinking yoghurt with fruit, and a 12% protein spoonable yoghurt.

Claus Bukbjerg Andersen, Senior Category Manager at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: The high-protein trend is as powerful as ever, but it’s evolving. Consumers now want high-quality, complete proteins – and they want them in products with masses of appeal. Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for manufacturers to meet these dual needs. The ‘Go High in Protein’ demonstrates how our Nutrilac® ProteinBoost solutions can help you overcome technical challenges and create high-protein dairy products that stand out in an increasingly crowded market.”

To sign up for the virtual protein seminar, visit https://bit.ly/47kR939

For more information about ‘Go High in Protein’ visit https://bit.ly/3TkykHL


[i] Innova Market Insights, Trend Survey, 2024

Hashtag: #ArlaFoodsIngredients

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Arla Foods Ingredients

Arla Foods Ingredients, a subsidiary of Arla Foods, is a global nutrition leader committed to sustainability and innovation, serving major brands worldwide.

JustMarkets: Demystifying of 5 Myths About Trading


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2024 – The world of online trading is as dynamic as the processes in the global economy and geopolitics. Some trends replace others, some assets lose their appeal, and some update historical value maximums. Given this, it is not surprising that there are a lot of myths in such a dynamic industry.

These misconceptions can prevent interested parties from delving into online trading processes and starting their exciting trading journey. They may be haunted by fears, doubts, or simply disbelief in the field of online trading. JustMarkets, a reliable multi-assets broker with worldwide recognition, is ready to debunk the myths that have spread around the online trading sphere. Here are the five most common myths about trading and the truth behind them.

JustMarkets Demystifying of 5 Myths About Trading

Myth 1: Need a Fortune to Start Trading

Everyone may have heard that trading is a rich man’s business. This field has nothing to do without tens and hundreds of thousands of dollars. However, this is one of the biggest misconceptions about trading. Indeed, trading used to be considered a battlefield for large institutional investors, hedge funds, and billionaires. In 2024, things are completely different, thanks to the help of online brokers. The key to success in trading is not in the amount of capital but in knowledge, discipline, and emotional stability.

Modern brokers provide traders with a wide range of tools for effective trading with minimal capital. Leverage to increase the volume of transactions and potential earnings, fast order execution to implement a trading strategy, a wide range of tools to minimize risks, a demo account for practice, and educational resources.

Myth 2: Brokers Are Unregulated

Another common myth is that CFD brokers operate outside the legal framework and are not regulated by governments. However, this is not true when it comes to well-established global brokers. In today’s environment, CFD brokers strive to gain maximum trust from their clients and obtain multiple licenses to operate in different regions of the world.

Myth 3: Anyone Can Easily Earn Wealth with Trading

There is no doubt that each of us would like to solve all our financial problems and obligations in a week. However, the idea that trading is a shortcut to quick wealth is a dangerous misconception. Promises of immediate profits tempt people, but the reality is much more complex. Trading is not a get-rich-quick scheme but detailed work that requires constant development, discipline, and mental stability.

The Forex market, in particular, can be volatile and unpredictable, meaning that profits and losses are part of the trading journey. Success in trading is achieved over time through consistent effort, discipline, analysis, and improvement of trading strategies. When starting a trading journey, it is important not to deceive yourself, hoping for quick and easy profits. Trading is like a business, like a job, requiring discipline and work.

Myth 4: One Trading Strategy Will Always Work

Another myth is that there is one “perfect” trading strategy that will guarantee long-term success. However, the truth is that markets are volatile, just like our lives. This means that trading approaches must be changed and improved depending on the current situation. What works in a trending market may not work in a range-bound market, and vice versa. Remember that financial markets reflect ordinary people’s real lives, psychology, and desires.

Successful traders often use a combination of strategies customized to their personal trading style and the current market situation.

Myth 5: Trading Is a Swift Way to Success

Many people think that trading is a quick way to success and wealth. But in reality, it is a journey that requires time, patience, and discipline. Trading is not about making quick profits, but a short process of developing a sustainable and effective strategy that works in the long term. Experienced traders know that success does not happen overnight. It requires the ability to learn from mistakes, manage emotions, and remain consistent in both wins and losses.

All in all, these myths are based on desire and a frivolous approach to trading, which must be eradicated before starting this exciting journey. Trading requires conscious decisions, rational thinking, and constant learning. It is important not to succumb to the myth of easy profits, but at the same time, do not be afraid of the markets and boldly go to meet them. With the right tools and knowledge, trading can be a rewarding and profitable experience.

Brokers aim to provide traders with the maximum amount of information, data, and insights. Information, knowledge, and the ability to manage them play a key role in making the right decisions. Brokers only provide technical and educational tools to achieve traders’ goals. The rest depends solely on the traders and the exciting twists and turns of the trading world.Hashtag: #JustMarkets #Trading #Finance #Economics #Selfeducation #Forex #Investing






The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About JustMarkets

is a globally recognized multi-asset broker providing reliable and transparent trading services since 2012. The company has earned over 50 industry awards, highlighting its excellence in the financial sector. JustMarkets offers a diverse array of trading instruments, including forex, stocks, commodities, indices, metals, energies, and cryptocurrencies, serving clients in over 160 countries.

The company is renowned for its competitive pricing, featuring low spreads and zero commissions. JustMarkets caters to both new and experienced traders by providing a wide range of services designed to enhance their trading experience.

German Chancellor Scholz in Central Asia: Rhenus boosts investments in the Trans-Caspian Transport Route


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 September 2024 As part of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s trip to Central Asia, delegation member Tobias Bartz, CEO and Chairman of the Rhenus Group, is intensifying two significant projects in the region. In Samarkand, as the first in a series of initiatives, the agreement was signed to establish a joint venture with AO “Uztemir’yolkonteyner,” a subsidiary of the Uzbek Railways. Specific plans for a modern logistics center in Andijan are to be realized on this basis. In addition, Bartz signed a declaration of intent with the Kazakh company NC “Aktau Sea Commercial Port” JSC for the development of an intermodal terminal in the port of Aktau, Kazakhstan.

As a logistics service provider with global operations, the Rhenus Group is driving a large number of projects and investment plans in Central Asia. The company has had a presence there – in a region that is pivotal for the exchange of goods between Asia and Europe and plays a key role for the company – for almost 30 years. The visit by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who was accompanied by, among others, Tobias Bartz, CEO and Chairman of the Rhenus Group, underscores the growing importance of the economic ties between Germany and the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

“The Eurasian corridor is not only a trade route of international significance that contributes to the EU’s diversification strategy, but also a strategic lever for the global economy. Through our investments in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, which are supported by the governments of both these states as well as Germany, we are boosting regional infrastructure and reinforcing the position of German industry and the local export trade in the global market,” says Tobias Bartz, emphasizing the point.

The Rhenus Group’s majority interest in the joint venture with the Uzbek Railways, which is planning a logistics center in Andijan, marks a pioneering project in the transport sector. In addition to developing an efficient container terminal in the port of Aktau on the Caspian Sea on the alternative route to the new Silk Road, a project that was launched in the presence of the German President in 2023, the Group of companies is driving further projects for terminals in Kazakhstan’s economic hubs.

These initiatives are complemented by strategic measures undertaken by the logistics service provider in the South Caucasus. Combined with a strong presence in Turkey, this will allow the creation of a seamless supply chain along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, known as the Middle Corridor between Europe and China via Central Asia.

Hashtag: #Rhenus

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Rhenus

The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 7.5 billion. 40,000 employees work at 1,320 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.

Cushman & Wakefield Releases 2023 Sustainability Report


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 September 2024 – Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK), a leading global real estate services firm, today released its 2023 Sustainability Report. The report demonstrates the firm’s global impact and performance across key sustainability areas during 2023, and progress on future targets that will help shape a more sustainable, inclusive future for the firm’s people, clients, planet and communities.

Cushman & Wakefield views sustainability as a key priority and works to advance sustainability within its operations and for its clients around the world. The firm continuously delivers on its commitment to embed sustainability across their service offerings to help clients achieve their ambitious goals, strengthen their corporate reputation and reduce risks. Cushman & Wakefield’s 2023 Sustainability Report reflects the firm’s commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement in their environmental, social and governance performance.

“Our commitment to sustainability is driven by our belief that we have a unique opportunity and corporate responsibility to shape a more sustainable future for our clients, our stakeholders and the planet we all share,” said Jessica Francisco, Cushman & Wakefield’s Chief Sustainability Officer. “We are taking action to reduce our environmental impact, foster an inclusive and diverse workplace and enable our clients to achieve their sustainability goals. While we have set ambitious targets for the years to come, we believe that a better future begins now.”

Cushman & Wakefield’s 2023 key sustainability achievements include:

Better for Our People and Communities
· Women made up 40% of the firm’s total workforce in 2023, 43% of people managers and 47% of executives.
· Approximately $840 million spent with diverse suppliers in North America.
· 19,789 employees completed voluntary sustainability training in 2023.
· 36% increase in Employee Resource Group membership.

Better for Our Clients
· Provided energy and sustainability services for more than 60,120 buildings, totaling approximately 1.13 billion square feet.

Better for Our Planet
· 15% reduction in total Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from 2022.
· 43% reduction in total Scope 1 and 2 (market-based) emissions from 2019.
· Sourced 58% of the firm’s operations electricity from renewable sources.
· 11% decrease in energy consumption year-over-year in 2023, driven by a 31% decrease in the use of natural gas and fuel oil reported.

Better for Our Business
· Over 4,800 new and existing suppliers completed an Environmental, Social and Governance intake questionnaire.
· As of the date of publishing the 2023 Sustainability Report, women made up 75% of the firm’s Board of Directors.

“Our commitment to sustainability is aligned and integrated into our core business strategy to support our clients in establishing and achieving their sustainability objectives,” said Nathaniel Robinson, Cushman & Wakefield’s Global Chief Investment & Strategy Officer. “Our goal is to provide innovative solutions to help clients navigate the complex and evolving landscape of environmental and social responsibility, while also creating lasting value for their business, stakeholders and the planet. We are confident our professionals across the globe will continue leading the way for our clients through our sustainability service offerings to ensure a better future for all.”

The firm was recently named one of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies 2024 by TIME.

Cushman & Wakefield’s 2023 Sustainability Report is available on their website.

Hashtag: #CushmanandWakefield

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Cushman & Wakefield

Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2023, the firm reported revenue of $9.5 billion across its core services of valuation, consulting, project & development services, capital markets, project & occupier services, industrial & logistics, retail and others. It also receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture and commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), sustainability and more. For additional information, visit or follow us on LinkedIn ().

VinFast officially launches the VF 3 electric vehicle in the Philippines


MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 September 2024 – Following its resounding success in Vietnam, VinFast Auto has officially opened pre-orders for the VF 3 in the Philippines. This marks the first time VinFast is launching its stylish mini electric SUV in an international market.

VinFast VF 3 model is officially launched in the Philippines market.
VinFast VF 3 model is officially launched in the Philippines market.

From September 19 to 30, early customers who reserve the VF 3 will enjoy several attractive incentives and privileges, including a special price of 605,000 pesos (battery subscription) or 705,000 pesos (battery included). After this period, the prices will revert to the MSRP of 645,000 pesos (battery subscription) and 745,000 pesos (battery included).

Additionally, early VF 3 customers will have the privilege of choosing from nine striking exterior paint colors, including four base colors and five premium options, free of charge. Premium paint colors will cost an additional 20,000 pesos after this period.

Moreover, from September 19 to 30, for only 40,000 pesos, early customers can customize their car’s paint beyond the nine available colors. This will be the only time VinFast offers this exclusive privilege for the VF 3.

VinFast is accepting deposits of 5,000 pesos through its official website or at authorized dealerships (refundable under VinFast’s terms).

VF 3 customers who opt for the battery subscription can choose from a flexible list of subscription plans starting at just 2,800 pesos per month, allowing for cost optimization based on travel needs.
VF 3 customers who opt for the battery subscription can choose from a flexible list of subscription plans starting at just 2,800 pesos per month, allowing for cost optimization based on travel needs.
Monthly Travel Distance Monthly Battery Subscription Fee
< 1,500 km 2,800 pesos
1,500–2,500 km 3,800 pesos
> 2,500 km 6,300 pesos

The VF 3 boasts a compact design with dimensions of 3,190 x 1,679 x 1,622 mm and a wheelbase of 2,075 mm, perfectly suited for city roads in the Philippines. It is equipped with 16-inch wheels, providing an impressive ground clearance of 191 mm, allowing for smooth navigation across various terrains.

Despite its small size, the VF 3 is powered by a 32 kW electric motor, providing a maximum torque of 110 Nm. With an 18.64 kWh lithium-ion battery, the VF 3 can travel up to 210 km on a full charge, fully meeting the needs of city driving. Fast charging from 10% to 70% in just 36 minutes adds convenience by saving time.

The VF 3 stands out with its youthful and dynamic design, offering nine exterior color options, making it an ideal choice for young individuals to express their personality. The interior is optimized for four passengers, with foldable rear seats that can expand the cargo space to 285 liters. A large 10-inch infotainment screen ensures that every journey in the VF 3 is enjoyable.

Even as the most affordable model in VinFast’s lineup, the VF 3 comes equipped with a full range of essential features, including safety and driver-assist technologies, providing a smooth and convenient driving experience, even for first-time drivers. Each VF 3 comes with a portable charger, ensuring peace of mind for customers when it comes to battery concerns.

To give customers peace of mind throughout their EV ownership, VinFast offers the best after-sales policies in the market, including a 7-year/160,000 km warranty for the VF 3, an 8-year unlimited mileage battery warranty (for battery purchase), and free maintenance and battery replacement if the battery capacity drops below 70% (for battery subscription).

Mr. Cao Ngoc Nguyen Duy, CEO of VinFast Philippines, shared: “We are excited to launch the VF 3, which has been very successful in Vietnam, to the Philippine market. We believe this vehicle will bring a breath of fresh air to the Philippine automotive market and continue VinFast’s success story. With its affordability, ease of driving, and ease of ownership, the VF 3 can meet the needs of a wide range of customers, especially the younger generation, who plays a key role in the transition to sustainable transportation. By introducing the VF 3, VinFast also demonstrates its commitment to contributing to the green transition in the Philippines.”

In just a few months of being in the Philippines, VinFast has demonstrated its long-term commitment to the market by opening multiple dealerships and launching electric vehicle models tailored to consumer needs. The launch of the VF 3 marks another significant milestone in VinFast’s journey in the Philippines, reaffirming its commitment to providing premium quality products at inclusive prices with outstanding after-sales policies.

Disclaimer: Promotion subjected to DTI’s approval

Hashtag: #VinFast #EV #VF3

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast’s product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia. Learn more at:

Lao Mathematics Association Launched to Boost National Competitiveness

Launch event of the Lao Mathematics Association. (Photo: Vientiane Times)

The Lao Mathematics Association (LMA) was officially launched on 14 September at the National University of Laos (NUOL). The inauguration event saw the participation of Education Minister Phout Simmalavong, NUOL Acting President Dexanoulath Sendouangdeth, and various mathematics educators and professionals.

Sackmone Sirisack, who leads the new LMA, emphasized the association’s mission to improve the skills of local math teachers and mathematicians. He envisions the LMA playing a vital role in fostering skill exchanges both within Laos and with regional partners. Sirisack hopes that through collaboration and research, the LMA will help elevate Lao mathematics to an international standard.

The formation of the LMA addresses a notable gap in Southeast Asia, as Laos was the only ASEAN member without a dedicated mathematics association. 

With a vision toward the future, Education Minister Simmalavong stressed the importance of securing external funding and establishing international partnerships to support the association’s growth. 

He highlighted the need for outside support to help Lao mathematicians compete globally and confirmed the government’s commitment to backing the LMA.

In recent achievements, Lao students have made their mark on the international stage. At the Singapore International Math Olympiad Challenge (SIMOC), they won thirteen medals, including one Gold, six Silver, and six Bronze, along with three Honorable Mentions. 

Supported by BrightPath Education, the team comprised students from Vientiane Pattana School International, Panyathip British International School, and Hakkeo Secondary School.

Grade 1 student Souliyavong Sirimanotham enjoyed exploring Singapore and making new friends, despite initial nervousness. “I was nervous but focused on the experience,” he said. 

Grade 9 student Romina Phoutharaksa Douangmala shared her rigorous preparation, stating, “I practiced hard and was determined to win a medal.”

This success represents a significant milestone in Laos’ educational progress.