From January to August, Laos welcomed a total of 2.6 million international visitors while seeing approximately 2.3 million domestic travelers, according to the Tourism Development Department under the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism.
Uncounted, Uncertain: Cambodian Lao Community’s Quest for Identity, Recognition
Kai Sy remembers her childhood fondly, riding a water buffalo through the rice paddies and singing in Lao.
Though her home province of Ratanakiri has been part of Cambodia since 1904, Kai Sy grew up unable to read or write Khmer, preferring to speak Lao like most of those around her.
Today, she is a government functionary and fully literate in Khmer, yet still nurtures her Lao roots. Kai Sy performs traditional Lao songs to audiences across Cambodia, reaching those who speak Lao natively, but feel disconnected from their roots.
Despite being a significant part of Cambodia’s population, the Lao community lacks official recognition, placing them in a unique position within Cambodian society.
Nobody knows exactly how many Khmer-Lao (Or Lao Cambodians) like Kai Sy there are today, as they are not counted separately by the Cambodian census, because they are not registered as an “indigenous group” by the Cambodian government.
However, estimates fall between 50,000 and 100,000 thousand. If they were to be recognized as an indigenous group, they would likely surpass the Kuoy and Bunong, currently listed as the largest indigenous populations by the Cambodian Indigenous People’s Organization, with estimated populations of 70,000 and 50,000, respectively.
Cultural Roots and Identity of the Khmer-Lao Community
The Khmer-Lao community has diverged over time from mainland Laos, developing its own unique dialects. Many Khmer-Lao distinguish their way of speaking by referring to it as “Lieu,” as opposed to the “Lao” spoken in Laos.
“The Lao in Cambodia and the Lao in Laos have a lot of differences,” said Meach Mean, a Khmer-Lao government official. “Even the language cannot be understood by each other anymore.”
He went on to say the Khmer-Lao traditions today are 30-40 percent Lao in origin, with the rest being Khmer.

In 2001, the Cambodian government passed an amendment to the Land Law, giving specific protection of land rights for indigenous communities, and giving the first official recognition of indigenous groups as separate legal entities. However, the Khmer-Lao community was not included in this designation. As a result, they do not benefit from the same land protections afforded to the recognized indigenous groups nearby, leaving them vulnerable in terms of land rights and access to resources.
In 2015, local protests erupted over the construction of the Sesan Hydroelectric Dam, drawing attention from international groups and media, especially regarding the displacement of nearby Bunong villages.
Media reports showed that the much larger Lao community in the area received comparatively little recognition.
Today, the villages near the dam still mostly speak Lao, but there are no organized cultural groups to advocate for their rights and heritage. Many villagers flatly denied the existence of Lao culture, insisting that they were not a separate ethnic group from the Khmer, but rather spoke Lao due to their proximity to the border. They believed that, over time, even this connection would fade.
“The teachers decided that we should all speak Khmer, so we speak Khmer. Our children will learn only Khmer,” said a barber in Phlouk village, which is notable for having its own dialect referred to by other Khmer-Lao as “Original Lieu.”
He also mentioned that the children would not learn the dialect, a decision supported by the entire village. While outside sources claimed that many in Phlouk village were unhappy about the fading of their Lao heritage, no villagers felt comfortable expressing that sentiment in on-the-record interviews.
“They’re afraid that their loyalty to Cambodia is going to be questioned,” said Ian Baird, a professor of Southeast Asian studies at the University of Wisconsin, who specializes in indigeneity in Southeast Asia and Lao history, theorizing about the villagers’ reluctance to tell more about their culture.
Bainua, a 69-year-old resident, said that there was “no such thing” as Khmer-Lao traditions beyond language, as they are fully Khmer. He noted that his grandchildren would not learn Lieu, viewing this as beneficial for easier communication.
“One Khmer, two mouths,” Bainua and his fellow villagers repeated.
Another villager nearby explained that the local population identifies as Khmers, attributing the use of the Lao language to the fact that many had fled to Laos for a few years during the Cambodian Civil War in the 1970s.
Bits of History of Lao Immigration to Cambodia
After the decline of the Khmer Empire (1431 CE), Northeastern Cambodia received waves of immigration by Lao peoples who largely governed themselves, due to a lack of centralized authority by the Khmer state. Later, Lao Kingdoms such as Lan Xang and the Thai vassal Champassak took control of these areas, building urban centers such as the now regional capital of Stung Treng (A Khmerization of the original Lao name of Xiang Taeng).
When the French took over, they referred to these parts of Indochina as “Southern Laos,” before eventually transferring these territories to their Cambodian protectorate in 1904.
Today, there is a large population of ethnic Lao in these areas, in some localities even as a majority. In Cambodian’s Steung Treng Province and parts of Ratanakiri, many members of other minority groups, such as the Brao and Tampuan, also use the Lao language as a Lingua Franca.

According to Baird, some individuals identified as “Khmer-Lao” may actually be genetically unrelated to the original Lao populations, as they might come from other non-Khmer ethnic groups that have assimilated into the Lao community due to their widespread presence. He also believes that it would be more accurate to call the Khmer-Lao “Lao Cambodians,” as they are citizens of Cambodia but not ethnically Khmer.
“I am ethnically Lao, but Khmer by citizenship,” said Kai Sy, the Khmer-Lao singer, echoing Baird’s sentiment.
Baird has been working with the Khmer-Lao since 1995, and written extensively about their history and relationship with the government.
“It is probably one of the more oppressed groups,” he said over a call, comparing the Lao to other minorities that faced harsh policies.
He explained that in the 1960’s, there were fines for speaking Lao in the city of Stung Treng. Buddhist temples, which once served as centers of Lao culture and literacy, had their lay clergy replaced with Khmers.
In the following years, the Khmer Rouge, while brutal towards many ethnic minorities, took a lighter approach with the Khmer-Lao and other groups in the Northeast, initially leveraging their stronghold by using Lao in communications to evade the Cambodian government.
Today’s Stance and Community Sentiments
Today, the Cambodian government is more inclusive toward indigenous groups and minorities. However, opposition figures still sometimes use xenophobic rhetoric. This, combined with past experiences, can make Khmer-Lao individuals hesitant to discuss their heritage with outsiders, according to Baird.
Lieu Chovannari, a Khmer woman who married into a Khmer-Lao family, acknowledged the existence of cultural differences between Khmer and Khmer-Lao. She moved to the village ten years ago.
“When I first came here, there was some discrimination,” she said. “The elders would talk about me as an outsider.”
She added that it was difficult to adjust to “all their superstitions.”
However, not all Khmer-Lao have the same perspective on their cultural heritage.
“There are so many of us, but we have lost our way,” said Sai Bunlam, who has been working on creating an association for Khmer-Lao. “When it comes to ceremonies, weddings, house warmings, etc – there’s nobody who really knows it well and to keep our traditions alive. After the elders are gone, nobody will know or understand it.”
He hopes a formal Khmer-Lao organization will help lobby for Lao language education to preserve their culture. Although he received strong community support, momentum waned during the COVID pandemic, and economic challenges have hindered fundraising.
He envisions establishing Lao language and cultural centers, acknowledging that while full schools may be unrealistic, lessons could be offered in temples and community spaces.
“We want to preserve our identity for the next generation to know the way of life, traditions, and culture of their ancestors,” he said. “If we don’t do it, it will be lost.”
The Khmer-Lao community possesses a distinct culture that is vital to Cambodia’s cultural diversity. With support from the government and civil society organizations, efforts to preserve and promote Khmer-Lao traditions can continue.
The legendary Dusit Thani Bangkok reopens after a landmark transformation
Dusit’s reimagined flagship hotel returns, redefining luxury in the heart of Bangkok.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 September 2024 – Dusit Thani Bangkok, the flagship hotel of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has made its highly anticipated return after a stunning transformation as part of the upcoming Dusit Central Park project opposite Lumpini Park in the heart of the city.

The opening, held on 27 September 2024, was marked by a special ceremony featuring Mr Chanin Donavanik, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Executive Committee, Dusit International, who had the honour of being the first guest to check in. This gesture pays tribute to his mother’s enduring legacy in launching the original hotel in 1970.
Guests from across the globe travelled to be among the first to experience the hotel’s exquisitely designed Suites and Club Rooms, where expansive, cantilevered picture frame windows capture breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Lumpini Park, providing an unmatched accommodation experience in the city.
The newly transformed hotel also unveiled its expansive meeting and events space, which in keeping with the grandeur of its predecessor, boasts one of the largest ballrooms in Bangkok. The Napalai Grand Ballroom, with its soaring eight-metre-high ceiling and full-width, 55-metre-wide panoramic window, frames picturesque park and cityscape views, creating a dramatic backdrop for any event.
The hotel’s dining venues are equally captivating, each with its own signature touch. The initial offerings include The Pavilion, where guests can savour Thai, Chinese, and international delicacies, and Dusit Gourmet, which offers artisanal bites and international favourites from an open kitchen. Soon, guests will be able to enjoy four more dining concepts, including collaborations with world-class chefs and a chic, multi-level rooftop bar situated alongside the hotel’s iconic spire.
Also launching soon is Devarana Wellness, a unique urban wellness sanctuary concept designed to provide tailored wellness experiences for guests, visitors, and locals, ensuring that every stay is an opportunity for rejuvenation.
“Just as my mother envisioned the original Dusit Thani Bangkok as a beacon of Thai hospitality on the world stage, the new Dusit Thani Bangkok aims to elevate that legacy,” said Mr Donavanik. “This opening marks not only a new chapter for Dusit but also a new era for Thai hospitality. We are excited to welcome our guests to experience this extraordinary transformation, where heritage and tradition seamlessly blend with innovation to establish a new benchmark for luxury accommodation in Bangkok.”
The new Dusit Thani Bangkok is the centrepiece of Dusit Central Park, a landmark THB 46 billion mixed-use development also comprising ultra-luxury residences (Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside), a state-of-the-art office tower, a high-end retail centre, and an 11,200 sq m Roof Park. These additional components are expected to open gradually in 2025.
Special opening offers with exclusive privileges, including a complimentary airport limousine service in a Porsche Panamera Executive – the first of its kind in Thailand – are now available for booking at dusit.com/bangkok.
Hashtag: #DusitInternational
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About Dusit Thani Bangkok
The iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok reopens its doors to welcome guests once again following a captivating transformation. Presiding over Lumpini Park, the hotel redefines luxury with all park-view accommodations and sets the scene for unforgettable experiences with world-class dining and peerless event venues.
More than just a hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok brings classic grandeur to life and invites discerning travellers to experience a vibrant blend of modern elegance and timeless charm inspired by Dusit’s world-renowned gracious hospitality.
For more information, please visit
http://dusit.com/bangkok
Singapore: The Gateway for Global and Southeast Asian Businesses to Thrive Beyond Borders

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 September 2024 – As Southeast Asia (SEA) experiences strong economic growth, Singapore is strategically positioned to support manufacturers in expanding their market presence and leveraging advanced manufacturing capabilities. With a population of approximately 670 million and the potential to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2030, SEA presents immense opportunities for global manufacturers. Singapore’s robust manufacturing industry, a skilled workforce, and strategic connectivity are essential for unlocking this potential.

Singapore’s vibrant manufacturing landscape offers a stable base for companies seeking to pursue market expansion in Southeast Asia. With a business-friendly environment, proximity to vibrant and growing markets, and a network of high-tech contract manufacturers, Singapore provides an enabling ecosystem for manufacturers to scale their operations efficiently. The country’s strategic location, coupled with its robust infrastructure, makes it an ideal partner for companies seeking to establish or expand their market footprint in the region. Its world-class infrastructure, including modern ports, airports, and a robust transportation network, ensures efficient logistics and seamless trade flows. This connectivity enables manufacturers to not only access Southeast Asia as a vast consumer market but also leverage it as a production hub, strengthening supply chains and reducing disruptions.
Central to Singapore’s appeal is its advanced research and innovation ecosystem. The government’s Research, Innovation, and Enterprise 2025 (RIE2025) plan underscores Singapore’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in global manufacturing. With an investment of S$25 billion – and an additional S$3 billion committed in 2024 – the plan focuses on enhancing Singapore’s capabilities in areas such as Industry 4.0 (i4.0), digital transformation, and sustainable manufacturing.
Initiatives like the National Robotics Programme (NRP) and the Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre (ARTC) demonstrate Singapore’s commitment to turning research into impactful manufacturing solutions. Other significant partners include the Institute of Microelectronics (IME), a leader in semiconductor research, and the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), which supports companies in additive manufacturing through design, technology consultancy, and prototyping capabilities. Together, these initiatives ensure that Singapore remains at the forefront of global manufacturing, offering businesses the tools and partnerships to thrive in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.
A significant factor in Singapore’s success is its highly skilled and adaptable workforce. Manufacturing is the largest component of the Singapore economy, with one in every eight jobs in the country related to this sector. The government’s commitment to upskilling and reskilling workers through initiatives like SkillsFuture Singapore, the Industry 4.0 Human Capital Initiative (IHCI), and the Global Ready Talent Programme ensures that Singapore talent remains at the cutting edge of industry advancements. These initiatives ensure that Singapore’s workforce is equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to navigate the evolving manufacturing landscape while helping companies develop a strong talent pipeline capable of driving innovation and growth.
Singapore’s robust innovation ecosystem, diverse contract manufacturers, and skilled workforce make it an ideal base for companies expanding in Southeast Asia. As the region grows, Singapore’s role as a manufacturing hub becomes increasingly critical, offering opportunities for market expansion and leveraging the thriving Singapore manufacturing industry and talent for long-term success.
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Singapore Economic Development Board
The Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), a government agency under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, is responsible for strategies that enhance Singapore’s position as a global centre for business, innovation, and talent.
2024 Smart City Expo World Congress · Hangzhou Stage Wraps Up, Driving Global Smart City Collaboration
Theme: “Converge! Blooming Our Business in Transition”

HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 September 2024 – The 2024 Smart City Expo World Congress · Hangzhou Stage has concluded with great success, uniting over 150 international organizations from 18 countries, nearly 200 global smart city leaders, and more than 70 city delegations. With the theme “Converge! Blooming Our Business in Transition,” the event showcased the latest advancements in smart city technology while promoting cross-border collaboration and innovation.
In opening speech, Ugo Valenti, CEO of the Smart City Expo World Congress, emphasized China’s pivotal role in the global smart city ecosystem. “China has demonstrated leadership in leveraging technology to transform cities, offering valuable lessons to urban areas worldwide,” remarked Ugo.
The congress aimed to foster a transnational network for smart city cooperation, focusing especially on strengthening connections among Asian cities for sustainable urban growth. It also encouraged collaboration between global governments and enterprises. The event featured more than 40 public activities, including keynote speeches, thematic forums, and exclusive showcases of Asian cities. In addition, nearly 40 closed-door meetings were held to facilitate project collaborations between key stakeholders, exploring new opportunities in smart city development.
The Public Exhibition Area was organized into five tracks: Enabling Technologies, Energy and Environment, Urban Logistics and Mobility, New Consumption and Livability, and Public Services and Economy. Over 100 smart city companies, including leading firms such as Huawei, Dahua, and Leyard, demonstrated how cutting-edge technologies can enhance urban environments and provide innovative solutions for future cities.
The event also hosted the 2024 Region* & China Smart City Awards (powered by the World Smart City Awards), recognizing excellence in categories such as City, Enterprise, Best Projects (X-SDI), and Leadership. The China Smart City Awards attracted 166 proposals from 45 cities across China, while the Region Awards received 149 proposals from 9 countries, reflecting the diversity and growth of the global smart city ecosystem.
Among the winners, Shenzhen, from Guangdong Province, received the China Smart City Awards – “City Award” for its leadership in digital transformation and smart urban governance, which have significantly enhanced its social management and city services.
China’s forward-thinking strategies, advanced technologies, and effective urban governance continue to gain international recognition, setting trends and driving the sustainable and intelligent development of cities worldwide.
Hashtag: #SmartCityExpoWorldCongress
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Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) 2024 hosts 21 international pavilions

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – EQS Newswire – 30 September 2024 – The 26th Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) will feature 21 international pavilions from various countries. Organised by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) (www.DEWA.gov.ae), WETEX runs from 1 to 3 October 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with over 2,800 companies from 65 countries participating.
“We are proud of the global increasing position of WETEX. It has become an annual must-attend event for private and public organisations worldwide, to reach a wider network of investors and new markets, build trade relations, sign deals, promote their business and exchange the latest technologies and innovation. They join us to be at the forefront of sustainability,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA and Founder and Chairman of WETEX.
“WAPTAG –WETEX association is getting Stronger year on year basis just as the relations between UAE-INDIA. The participation of WAPTAG Members has been increased by almost 50% compared to last year and hoping much bigger participation in coming years. Companies joining the WAPTAG India Pavilion at WETEX are among the best manufacturers in India & will be highlighting cutting-edge technologies and solutions for all drinking, effluent and sewage water treatment solutions,” said Rishabh Sanghvi, Vice-President, Water Purification And Treatment Association of Gujarat (WAPTAG).
“We are thrilled to host 6 brilliant companies from the Walloon region under our Belgium pavilion. With such a large scope of competencies, such as water treatment, processors, IT and green hydrogen, we can assure that our expertise will contribute to efforts taken to combat climate change and its impacts,” said Edith Mayeux, Economic Counselor for the AWEX, Wallonia Export & Investment Agency.
“I am proud to announce the renewed participation of Italy to WETEX 2024. The Italian Pavilion at WETEX 2024, organised by the Italian Trade Agency with the presence of such a strong number of Italian companies, embodies Italy’s dedication to driving sustainable innovation and fostering a greener economy,” said Valerio Soldani, Italian Trade Commissioner to the UAE and Director of ITA Dubai Office.
“We are grateful to DEWA for providing the National Centre for Marketing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, as the leading national institution for foreign trade promotion, the opportunity to organise the Belarus pavilion at WETEX. It is a great opportunity for our companies to showcase their latest technologies and efficient solutions, demonstrating the immense potential of our country to foster co-operation. We are confident that this first experience of participation will mark the starting point for large-scale projects in the future,” said Mikalai Barysevich, Director General of the National Centre for Marketing in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus.
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Global Payments Process Centre Inc. Earns First-Time Certification as One of the Best Places to Work in the Philippines for 2024

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 September 2024 – Global Payments Process Centre Inc., a prominent player in the payment solutions industry, is thrilled to announce its first-time recognition as one of the Philippines’ Best Places to Work for 2024.
This prestigious certification marks a significant milestone for Global Payments Philippines, reflecting the company’s unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and growth-oriented work environment. By prioritizing employee well-being and professional development, Global Payments has established itself as a leading employer in the financial services industry.
Jay Aure, SVP, GSC Site Head at Global Payments Philippines, shares his thoughts on this achievement: “We are truly honored to be recognized with the ‘Best Places to Work’ certification. This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and dynamic workplace. It reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion of every team member who contributes to our vibrant culture each day. We believe that a happy and engaged workforce drives success, and this certification is a validation of our efforts to foster an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered.”
Global Payments dedication to creating a dynamic workplace where employees can thrive is evident through its employee-centric initiatives, which include professional development programs, wellness activities, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance. These efforts have contributed to a positive workplace culture where every team member feels valued and motivated.
This recognition as one of the Philippines’ Best Places to Work for 2024 underscores Global Payments commitment to excellence in HR practices and its role in setting new standards for employee experience in the industry.
For more information about the certification program, please visit www.bestplacestoworkfor.org.
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Hashtag: #BestPlacesToWork
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