Laos is a landlocked nation known for its rugged mountains, French colonial buildings, hill tribe villages and Buddhist monasteries – but beneath all this diversity exists an enduring cultural practice: playing lottery. Millions participate every week as it serves not just as entertainment or an avenue to social inclusion – it brings hope and brings people together as one nation.
Even amid the excitement and anticipation surrounding Lao lottery draws, an atmosphere of suspicion has pervaded. People questioning winning numbers have complained that even small digits may have been altered; weight of lottery balls have also been altered so as to prevent large payouts; furthermore some accuse lottery officials of manipulating results and choosing numbers instead of randomly picking them at random.
As part of its efforts to rebuild trust, the government issued a directive asking companies that run lottery to improve their practices. It also called for reduced lottery drawings and transparent handling of winnings – with this directive coming from Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith’s office on August 17th. Unfortunately it remains unclear how these new regulations will be enforced.
Recent controversies surrounding the lottery are unlikely to dissuade its fans, who remain committed players. Some players believe animal names, specifically 509 which represents Felis catus as being good luck; it has appeared four consecutive months. Some players have complained, however, that numbers don’t always appear accurately when being punched into lottery stations by clerks; the smallest digit of which being created through mathematical algorithms rather than actual human beings punching in numbers at lottery booths.
Public awareness has also been raised over the sales of lottery tickets through SMS messaging services, meaning sellers can easily see which numbers are being played and use this data to cheat the system, according to an anonymous lottery salesman who spoke with RFA’s Lao service on condition of anonymity. He claimed that Thailand-based Insee Trading Company which runs Laos’ lottery knows which numbers are being played and can manipulate them accordingly.
Even though playing the lottery can be enjoyable, people should remain mindful that it still represents gambling. It is essential that individuals understand all risks involved and the odds associated with winning, particularly since winning are so slim. Anyone experiencing difficulties controlling their gambling addiction should seek professional assistance. Finding an appropriate treatment program tailored specifically to you needs can be very helpful in getting back on track quickly.
