The tiny, landlocked nation of Laos is a country that’s rich in natural beauty, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements and Buddhist monasteries. But beneath its rugged terrain and azure skies, a little-known tradition weaves together the threads that make up the fabric of the people – the national lottery. Despite its simplicity, it’s more than just a draw of numbers, it’s a social leveller and for many, a glimmer of hope.
The announcement of lottery results sends ripples of excitement across the country, and with it, a sense of camaraderie. People check their tickets, with hearts pounding and fingers crossed in the hope that they’re the one lucky winner. For some, it’s a chance to bolster their household income, and for others, it’s an opportunity to pursue their dreams or start their own small businesses. But for many, it’s a way to give back to their communities.
Whether it’s the number 11 for dogs, 07 for pork, 20 for centipede or 02 for shells – each one represents a different animal and is an essential part of the lottery’s cultural tapestry. As the numbers are read out, they’re accompanied by an explanation of the animals they represent and the significance behind their choice. The animals are chosen to represent the ten virtues of Buddhism – honesty, generosity and wisdom – which is the foundation of the lottery’s ethics.
The National Lottery is a government operation and has no connections to underground gambling activities, Deputy Finance Minister Sila Viengkeo told RFA’s Lao Service. In addition, all prizes are distributed evenly among the winners – a nod to fairness and equality. This year’s jackpot is expected to reach $1.5 billion, which is the highest ever for a national lottery. The winnings will be used for a variety of projects, including the construction of public buildings, roadworks and housing developments. The prize money will also fund the purchase of new vehicles for the army and police, and support a number of charities.
