The Lao lottery is more than a game – it’s a national tradition, a social leveller and, for many, a beacon of hope. Every announcement of the results sends ripples of excitement across the country, as people check their tickets and fervently hope they might be the lucky winners. Some use the winnings to bolster their income or invest in their children’s education. Others find a new beginning after years of struggle.
Almost everyone in Laos plays the lottery at least three times a week. Small aluminium tables with LED lamps are a common sight on the streets of Savannakhet and in the whole country, where people jot down their names, phone numbers and address for a chance to win a prize ranging from a bicycle to rice cookers and fans. Inspired by the scratch-off mobile phone credit refill cards of four big carriers, SNV’s team in Laos came up with a new idea to promote the improved cookstove (ICS) programme, a lottery-style raffle where anyone who buys an ICS gets a chance to choose their lucky number or animal.
While gambling is technically illegal in Laos, there are several Special Economic Zones where casinos are allowed to operate. These casinos offer popular games like roulette, poker and blackjack to players. Nevertheless, online gambling is still considered illegal in the country.
In addition to the traditional lottery, there are also a number of other ways for Laos citizens to try their luck in the hope of winning a prize. One way is through the Internet, where there are a variety of sites offering lottery results and information. However, not all of these websites are reliable and it is best to visit official government-run websites for the latest lottery results.
Another way to try your luck in the lottery is to purchase a lottery ticket at the nearest convenience store or supermarket. The prices of lottery tickets are generally lower than in western countries. Moreover, they are available around the clock. However, it is advisable to look for the best price before buying a lottery ticket.
Some have alleged that the lottery is rigged by officials to avoid large payouts. In particular, the number 134 appeared as the winning number in a recent drawing but disappeared from purchased tickets before the result was announced, according to a source who spoke to RFA on condition of anonymity.
In spite of all the controversy, the lottery is a unique national tradition that brings together communities in hope and anticipation. Its multifaceted nature mirrors the unique nuances of a country that is steeped in cultural and community ties. The results of the October 23 draw exemplify this, as winners rejoice in their good fortune and those who didn’t win look forward to the next draw with a sense of camaraderie. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
