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Six defendants, including Khmer Rise Party (KRP) president William Guang, were charged and ordered to prison pending trial on Saturday in connection with the armed robbery of young tycoon Ean Sieu Mey in Por Senchey district's Choam Chao commune. Sok Sovann Vathana Sabung alias William Guang, 44, the mastermind of the armed robbery; his wife Sovann Srey Soryopor, 24; Or Ramorn, 33, Guang's driver; Sovann Ranuth, 26; Guang's personal assistant; Keth March, 26, a KRP accountant; and his girlfriend Thun Wathanak Boramey, 27, a car vendor and moneylender for Guang Guang was charged with "thefts with aggravating circumstances, unauthorised holding of weapons, and forgery of public documents" under Articles 29, 353, 357, 490, and 629 of the Criminal Code, while the other five were charged with "accomplice of thefts with aggravating circumstances, unauthorised holding of weapons, and forgery of public documents." They each risk five to ten years in prison if convicted, he said. They were apprehended at 10.30 p.m. on December 20 in Meanchey district's Chak Angkre Krom commune and Dangkor district's Kongnoy commune, according to Phnom Penh military police chief Lieutenant General Rath Sreang. He claimed the suspects escaped after robbing An Siev Mey, an online lotion dealer, on December 19. After their arrest, the military police seized two cars, five guns, a lot of rounds, and other associated items, according to Lt Gen Sreang. Several stolen pieces of jewelry were also seized by the military police. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Six defendants, including Khmer Rise Party (KRP) president William Guang, were charged and ordered to prison pending trial on Saturday in connection with the armed robbery of young tycoon Ean Sieu Mey in Por Senchey district's Choam Chao commune. Sok Sovann Vathana Sabung alias William Guang, 44, the mastermind of the armed robbery; his wife Sovann Srey Soryopor, 24; Or Ramorn, 33, Guang's driver; Sovann Ranuth, 26; Guang's personal assistant; Keth March, 26, a KRP accountant; and his girlfriend Thun Wathanak Boramey, 27, a car vendor and moneylender for Guang Guang was charged with "thefts with aggravating circumstances, unauthorised holding of weapons, and forgery of public documents" under Articles 29, 353, 357, 490, and 629 of the Criminal Code, while the other five were charged with "accomplice of thefts with aggravating circumstances, unauthorised holding of weapons, and forgery of public documents." They each risk five to ten years in prison if convicted, he said. They were apprehended at 10.30 p.m. on December 20 in Meanchey district's Chak Angkre Krom commune and Dangkor district's Kongnoy commune, according to Phnom Penh military police chief Lieutenant General Rath Sreang. He claimed the suspects escaped after robbing An Siev Mey, an online lotion dealer, on December 19. After their arrest, the military police seized two cars, five guns, a lot of rounds, and other associated items, according to Lt Gen Sreang. Several stolen pieces of jewelry were also seized by the military police. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

The ITC02 team from Cambodia's Institute of Technology took first place in the final of the 8th Cambodia Robocon 2021, and will now represent the Kingdom at the International Robocon competition. The ITC01 team and the PPI01 team from Preah Kossomak Polytechnic Institute came in second and third, respectively. Minister of Information Khieu Kanharith and his wife presided over the annual event, which was hosted by the National Television of Cambodia yesterday afternoon at the Royal University of Phnom Penh (TVK). Eleven teams from six colleges and technical institutes competed at Cambodia Robocon 2021. Cambodia Robocon intends to improve the intellectual abilities of engineering and automation students in Cambodia, as well as promote the industrial and automation industries. In August 2023, Cambodia will host the ABU Asia-Pacific Robot Contest (ABU Robocon), which is projected to attract more than 20 countries. AKP -C.Nika Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

For the first time in weeks, Cambodia saw an increase in new COVID cases, as the country's Omicron total surged to 31 instances yesterday — all imported. However, no local cases have been reported, though specialists say it is only a matter of time until Omicron makes an appearance in the area. The number of new COVID cases diagnosed by PCR test today was 15, raising the overall number of COVID cases to 120,464 cases. No information on where these additional Omicron cases originated has been provided, though it is thought that 29 of the total cases arrived via Phnom Penh International Airport and two via Siem Reap International Airport. It appears just a matter of time until Cambodia reports its first 'local' cases, following in the footsteps of ASEAN countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and – most concerning for Cambodia – Thailand, who have all reported 'local' outbreaks. Since border checkpoints opened on August 13, this has prompted concern in Cambodia, particularly among migrant laborers returning from Thailand through various regions. Omicron, which is highly transmissible and has a high rate of reinfection, has now spread to over 100 nations throughout the world, including Cambodia. According to research from the University of Hong Kong (HKU), two doses of BioNtech or Sinovac do not create enough blood antibodies against the novel Omicron virus type in most people. Cambodians, on the other hand, appear to be hesitant to take advantage of the crucial third dose. After the first campaign on October 11 yielded dismal results, Phnom Penh City Hall announced it will re-launch the booster dose campaign on January 3. Cambodia has delivered over 3.28 million booster doses, or around 19.34 percent of the population, according to supplied numbers (please note that figures are approximately 2 days late) (see below) The Royal Government's valiant efforts to vaccinate Cambodians with the first and second doses may be jeopardized by the low uptake of the third immunization. Despite the threat of Omicron, Cambodia is forging ahead with reopening, and the Royal Government's focus is now on reestablishing a "new normal" and reintroducing Cambodia to tourism and business by treating lesser cases of COVID at home. However, it remains to be seen whether the rising number of Omicron cases in Cambodia will sway these plans. As previously stated, the dramatic drop in reported cases is due to a strategy implemented in October that excludes 'quick' testing and'mild' COVID-19 cases from the official daily case counts. Under the prior reporting scheme, there was a general increasing tendency in the Kingdom; however, the last 88 days' results have totally reversed this pattern, as seen in the graph below (please note that results may be up to two days behind): Other statistics show that there are now 100,576 Community Instances, with 19,888 cases being imported. Today, 15 imported cases were disclosed, with the new Omicron cases accounting for the majority of the increase. Cambodia also revealed 1 more death, bringing the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in Cambodia to 3009. There were 13 recoveries as active cases increased for the first time in weeks - there are currently 574 active COVID cases in Cambodia, according to PCR tests. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

According to a statement from cinema operator Major Cineplex Group Laos, cinemas will reopen across the country by December 24. The announcement was announced on Major Platinum Cineplex's Facebook page today, with the company expressing its happiness at the return of moviegoers to its facilities around the country. After finishing Covid-19 prevention preparations, major cinemas will reopen its doors on December 24. After a series of site inspections and agreements with the cinema operator, the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control was able to reopen the theaters with a variety of easing measures. Vicha Poolvaraluck, a Thai entertainment magnate, launched Major Cineplex. In July 2015, the company had its first public screening in Laos, marking the Thai company's second out-of-country branch after its success in Cambodia. More venues, as well as a cineplex in Pakse, Champasack Province, were eventually opened in Vientiane Capital. Since then, attending to the movies has been a popular pastime for inhabitants of Vientiane Capital and Pakse, with people of all ages able to see the newest Hollywood blockbusters as well as regional and local films. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Today, Laos has 1,341 Covid-19 cases across the country, with four new deaths. Over the last 24 hours, 4,844 tests were conducted across the country, with 1,341 new cases confirmed, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 1,340 cases of community spread and one imported case. Total Number of Cases: There are currently 11,833 active Covid-19 infections in Laos, with 288 confirmed deaths and 101,833 total cases. In the meantime, 520 patients were released from hospitals around the country yesterday. Rate of Vaccination Vaccinations for the first dose have now reached 60.19 percent of the population, while vaccinations for the second dose have reached 46.02 percent. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

On the occasion of the launch of the "Human Resources Policy," Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Veng Sakhon presented crucial recommendations to authorities. Minister Sakhon said during the official launch of the "Human Resources Policy" that in order for the Royal Government's goals to be met, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries must promote human resource management and development, which actively contributes to the implementation of government policies, particularly the National Public Reform Program 2019-2030. This assures a people-centered, clean, and intelligent core public administration that promotes social development in a fair and just manner. The Minister went on to say that the Royal Government of Cambodia, led by Prime Minister Hun Sen, has a clear and sharp vision to accelerate governance reform, particularly in-depth reforms in key areas such as editing the functions and duties of the institutional management structure, strengthening leadership, strengthening the capacity to manage the public sector, and reforming the armed forces. Minister Sakhon stated that in order to realize this purpose and vision, high-quality and qualified human resources are required. In response to the progress of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and digital technology, especially the digital policy and social framework, the Minister continued that capacity building and development of capable human resources are the keys to sustaining national economic growth and competitiveness. Royal Government of Cambodia 2021-2035 Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Consumer Protection Competition and Fraud Repression (CCF) inspectors in Poipet City torched more than six tons of confiscated products, including counterfeit alcohol. The event was held on December 22 and was overseen by authorities from Poipet City's Consumer Protection Competition and Fraud Repression Branch. San Vichea Saravuth, the CCF Branch Director, indicated that the branch and its officers began the crackdown in accordance with the Minister of Commerce's instructions and the General Department's procedures. The officers worked with relevant officials in the crackdown, according to Branch Director Saravuth. According to the Branch Director, officers seized 6,405 kg of food, beer, and other beverages in the first six months. He went on to say that the confiscated things were burned. Legal charges against business owners who sold defective items have been sent to the provincial court for legal action, according to the Branch Director. For unethical business methods, a petrol station owner has been summoned to court. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Cambodia recorded yet another low COVID new cases day, with daily new cases remaining at remarkably low levels – continuing an 84-day unbroken run of ultra-low 'new normal' figures. The number of new COVID cases diagnosed by PCR test today was 4, bringing the total number of COVID cases to 120,434 cases. With 'local' Omicron transmissions now documented in Thailand and Singapore, recent cases of Omicron identified on inbound travelers at Phnom Penh Airport will heighten fears of a 'Omicron' wave sweeping Cambodia, which is still lagging behind in implementing the third 'booster' dose. Migrant workers streaming across the border from Thailand and Vietnam could also be a source of Omicron. Omicron, which is highly transmissible and has a high rate of reinfection, has now spread to over 100 countries around the world. In light of this new threat, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), has urged people all over the world to avoid large-scale gatherings in the face of the Omicron variant, which is rapidly spreading around the world, saying, "An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled." According to research from the University of Hong Kong (HKU), two doses of BioNtech or Sinovac do not create enough blood antibodies against the novel Omicron virus type in most people. Cambodians, on the other hand, appear to be hesitant to take advantage of the crucial third dose. According to available data, Cambodia has given out approximately 3.07 million booster doses, or about 18.09 percent of the population (see below) The Royal Government's valiant efforts to vaccinate Cambodians with the first and second doses may be jeopardized by the low uptake of the third immunization. PM Hun Sen said the government will launch a strong campaign to encourage those who have been double-vaccinated to obtain their booster shots, particularly the elderly, children, and frontline workers. Despite the threat of Omicron, Cambodia is forging ahead with reopening, and the Royal Government's focus is now on reestablishing a "new normal" and reintroducing Cambodia to tourism and business by treating lesser cases of COVID at home. However, whether the discovery of Omicron in Cambodia will change these intentions remains to be seen. As previously stated, the dramatic drop in reported cases is due to a strategy implemented in October that excludes 'quick' testing and'mild' COVID-19 cases from the official daily case counts. Under the prior reporting scheme, there was a general increasing tendency in the Kingdom; however, the last 84 days' results have totally reversed this pattern, as seen in the graph below (please note that results may be up to two days behind): Other statistics show that there are now 100,571 Community Instances, with 19,863 cases being imported. Today, two imported cases were announced, maintaining the trend of importing few instances. Cambodia also reported 0 new deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in Cambodia to 3006 people. As active cases decreased, ten recoveries were announced; there are now only 587 active COVID cases detected by PCR test in Cambodia. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

Foodpanda continues to assist local communities in Laos, most recently giving consumer products to needy households in the capital city of Vientiane. On Saturday, Foodpanda gave much-needed consumer goods and food to 210 families living in cramped areas to commemorate the company's second year in Laos and its nationwide coverage. Mr. Abraham Sayavong, Head of Marketing, visited three villages in Vientiane Capital yesterday with Foodpanda staff, riders, rescue teams, and volunteers from various departments to distribute items worth LAK 25,000,000. In Hadsady Village, Thongkhankham Village, and Nongduang Neua Village, 210 underprivileged families received "Sharing Happiness" bags. Rice, eggs, soy sauce, hygiene masks, and alcohol sprays were among the consumer products and sanitary items found in the bags. Sanitation sprays were also carried out by rescue crews in each village. 210 kg rice, 210 bottles of fish sauce, 210 bottles of soy sauce, 210 bags of seasoning powder, 210 bags of salt, 210 bags of sugar, 210 bags of Knorr seasoning, 1,260 eggs, 1,050 packets of instant noodles, 210 packs of washing powder, 210 boxes of masks, and 210 bottles of alcohol spray were among the items donated. "Foodpanda has been assisting the local community in various ways for over two years and we will continue to help our local community, especially during this worldwide pandemic that has had a major economic and sociological impact on people's livelihoods," Mr. Abraham Sayavong remarked at the event's launch. "These "Happiness Bags," as well as the sanitization of these towns, are being distributed today as a way to give back to local communities in critical need of aid at this tough time," he continued. Foodpanda also celebrated its two-year milestone and expanded its reach to 17 additional provinces. Donations were made to impoverished towns through provincial Covid-19 taskforces, which were led by local city administrators in each province. The overall value of the gifts was LAK 72,000,000, and Foodpanda has committed to corporate social responsibility activities worth a total of LAK 700,000,000 through 2021. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Xayaboury Province in Laos has had two earthquakes in the last 24 hours, between 4:06 and 4:12 a.m. The earthquakes struck in Xayaboury Province, but were felt as far away as northern Vientiane, according to the Lao National Earthquake Data Center. An earthquake struck in Sala Village, Saysathan District, Xayaboury Province, at 04:02:41 local time. It had a magnitude of 3.5 on the Richter scale and was around 10 kilometers deep. Another earthquake struck four kilometers from Houaysalad Village in Saysathan District, Xayaboury Province, at 04:06:13 local time. The magnitude of the quake was 5.8 on the Richter scale. It was almost 10 kilometers deep. Both quakes occurred far from populous areas and caused little harm. In 2019, Laos established the Earthquake Monitoring Data Center to improve the country's ability to withstand earthquake disasters, promote the development of earthquake science and technology in Laos, protect Lao people's lives and property, and provide a strong guarantee for the country's economic and social development. Did you feel the tremor? Please let us know in the comments section of our Facebook page, or join our Telegram channel for further information. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Since the pandemic began, Laos has recorded over 100,000 cumulative cases of Covid-19, with a death toll of 284. Today, 1,128 cases of Covid-19 were reported across the country, raising the overall number of cases to 100,624 — putting Laos ahead of China, which has 100,467 cases as of today. Over the last 24 hours, 5,215 tests were completed around the country, with 1,128 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 1,127 cases of community spread and one imported case. Total Number of Cases: Laos now has 12,088 ongoing Covid-19 cases, 284 verified deaths, and a total of 100,624 cases. Meanwhile, 512 people have recovered and have been released from hospitals around the country. Rate of Vaccination Vaccinations for the first dose have now reached 59.96 percent of the population, while vaccinations for the second dose have reached 45.82 percent. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

According to the forest chief, people who illegally logged and encroached on the community forest in one of Stung Treng's districts would face legal action. Officials from the Forestry Administration are pursuing loggers who have encroached on the territory of the Chheuteal Prus community forest in Chamkar Leu Commune, Thala Borivat District, Stung Treng. On the morning of December 21, Va Sokha, the Director of Thala Parivat District's Forestry Administration, told local reporters that he and other relevant officials are investigating a claimed encroachment. The community informed officials that illegal loggers had encroached on many hectares of land. According to the Director, the Chheuteal Prus community forest is a hotspot for encroachment and logging. The forestry commission of the district is currently investigating the situation and attempting to apprehend those responsible for the illegal forest cutting. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

With daily traffic congestion rising, the capital government revealed that a design for a new flyover is being developed to ease travel and reduce the amount of time people of Phnom Penh spend traveling. The Phnom Penh Capital Administration decided to build the flyover in response to increased traffic congestion at the traffic light at the intersection of Street 2004 and the Russian Federation Boulevard. The Capital Administration has announced plans to construct a new flyover at the Century Plaza Mall traffic stop to make it easier for passengers to travel on Streets 2004 and Russian Federation Blvd, as well as Street 2011. On the evening of December 20, Governor of the Board of Governors of Phnom Penh, Khuong Sreng, acknowledged this in a video conference with relevant ministries and 14 district authorities at the Phnom Penh Capital Hall. Governor Sreng said that the flyover and underground passageway at the Chain Chao roundabout have been completed and are ready for use, while others are already operational. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Cambodia has seen its second consecutive COVID-free day, with daily new cases remaining at extraordinarily low levels, maintaining an 82-day unbroken streak of 'new normal' ultra-low rates. After ten months of suffering caused by the February 20 Community Event, Prime Minister Hun Sen declared the scourge officially over yesterday. The official daily new COVID case total (as determined by PCR test) was 4, increasing the overall number of COVID cases to 120,427. With 'local' Omicron transmissions now documented in Thailand and Singapore, recent cases of Omicron identified on inbound travelers at Phnom Penh Airport will heighten fears of a 'Omicron' wave sweeping Cambodia, which is still lagging behind in implementing the third 'booster' dose. Migrant workers flowing across the border from Thailand and Vietnam could also be a source of Omicron. "There are more than 200 migrant laborers returning per day," Banteay Meanchey deputy governor Ngoun Mengchroun said yesterday that authorities on both sides of the border are working hard and that the number of returnees is growing. Omicron, which is highly transmissible and has a high rate of reinfection, has now spread to more than 90 nations around the world, with Cambodia joining a list that includes Thailand, Singapore, as well as countries in America, Asia, Europe, and Australia. According to research from the University of Hong Kong (HKU), two doses of BioNtech or Sinovac do not create enough blood antibodies against the novel Omicron virus type in most people. Cambodians, on the other hand, appear to be hesitant to take advantage of the crucial third dose. According to available data, Cambodia has given out approximately 3.07 million booster doses, or about 18.09 percent of the population (see below) The Royal Government's valiant efforts to vaccinate Cambodians with the first and second doses may be jeopardized by the low uptake of the third immunization. PM Hun Sen said the government will launch a strong campaign to encourage those who have been double-vaccinated to obtain their booster shots, particularly the elderly, children, and frontline workers. Despite the threat of Omicron, Cambodia is forging ahead with reopening, and the Royal Government's focus is now on reestablishing a "new normal" and reintroducing Cambodia to tourism and business by treating lesser cases of COVID at home. The arrival of the first foreign passenger flight at Siem Reap International Airport in 20 months was received with joy today. However, whether the discovery of Omicron in Cambodia will change these intentions remains to be seen. As previously stated, the dramatic drop in reported cases is due to a strategy implemented in October that excludes 'quick' testing and'mild' COVID-19 cases from the official daily case counts. Under the prior reporting scheme, there was a general increasing tendency in the Kingdom, but the last 82 days' results have entirely reversed this pattern, as seen in the graph below (please note that results may be up to 2 days behind): Other statistics show that there are now 100,567 Community Instances, with 19,860 cases being imported. Today, only one imported case was announced, continuing the trend of fewer imported cases. Cambodia also reported 0 new deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in Cambodia to 3005. As active cases decreased, 12 recoveries were announced; there are presently only 600 active COVID cases detected by PCR test in Cambodia. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

Police caught a foreign national after a video of him peeing on his car while stopped at traffic lights went viral on social media. Residents questioned the man's ill-mannered behavior after seeing the footage on social media yesterday. The individual was apprehended after a public uproar, and he was charged with multiple offenses. Witnesses promptly uploaded footage of the urinator on social media after the event occurred on Monday at a crossroads in Vientiane Capital's Naxaythong District. The man can be seen exiting the vehicle from the driver's side while stopped at the lights, then rapidly relieving himself on the tires and splashing over the road. According to Vientiane Public Security News, police in the Naxaythong District captured the culprit, a Chinese national, who was held on accusations of public urinating and indecent exposure under Article 258 of the Penal Code. The man acknowledged to all allegations and claimed he couldn't take it any longer. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Six persons have been detained in the Netherlands for attempting to transport ecstasy tablets to Laos and Vietnam. Five persons were detained in Almere, Assen, and Loosdrecht on suspicion of attempting to transport 47,000 ecstasy tablets to Vietnam by ordinary mail, according to DutchNews.nl. When a parcel was posted in Assen, in the northern Netherlands, police were alerted to the narcotics. More ecstasy tablets and ketamine were discovered in the houses of three women and two males who were detained. The five are currently being held in police custody. Meanwhile, a sixth suspect was arrested in Zaandam on accusations of attempting to deliver 14.2 kg of ecstasy tablets to Laos. Despite the large amount of narcotics involved, authorities did not reveal who the beneficiaries in Laos would be or where the illicit substances would be delivered. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Today, 1,245 instances of Covid-19 have been reported across Laos, including six additional deaths. Over the previous 24 hours, 5,792 tests were completed around the nation, with 1,245 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 1,243 cases of community spread and two imported cases. New Deaths In Phathao Village, Thoulakhom District, Vientiane Province, a 50-year-old male. He wasn't immune to Covid-19 since he hadn't been immunized. In Lardsavongxay Village, Kaysone Phomvihane City, Savannakhet Province, a 56-year-old male. He had been diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes. He was entirely protected against Covid-19. In Phonmee Tai Village, Viengkham District, Vientiane Province, a 70-year-old lady. Asthma and lung problems have been a problem for her. She had had a complete Covid-19 vaccination. Covid-19 claimed the life of a 38-year-old lady in Donekoy Village, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital. She had diabetes and had had all of her vaccinations. A 56-year-old lady died of Covid-19-related problems in Phonngeun Village, Hatsaifong District, Vientiane Capital. There was no more information offered. Covid-19 claimed the life of an 86-year-old man in Phonxay Village, Xaythany District, Vientiane Capital. There was no more information offered. Total Cases: There are now 12,015 ongoing Covid-19 cases in Laos, with 256 confirmed fatalities and a total of 93,061 cases. In the meanwhile, 714 individuals were released from hospitals across the country yesterday. Rate of Vaccination: Vaccinations for the first dosage have already reached 58.14 percent of the population, while vaccinations for the second dose have reached 44.99 percent. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

The Minister of Rural Development started the flooded forest restoration project in Kampong Chhnang, which would focus on reforesting three locations. Minister Ouk Rabun, who is also the Chairman of the National Task Force for Strengthening Kampong Chhnang, organized a campaign to plant more than 4,000 palm trees and bamboo plants in collaboration with the Ministry of Land Management, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment, and Kampong Chhnang Provincial Administration. Three sections in Chronok Commune, Kampong Leng District, Kampong Cham, which borders Kampong Thom, will be reforested as part of the initiative. On the morning of December 14, the campaign was started. "Today (December 14), we worked with the relevant ministries, the Peaceful Youth Coalition, the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, districts and provinces, government officials throughout the province, students, and the armed forces to plant thousands of palm trees and bamboo trees in the three areas of the state to increase the flooded forest as a fish sanctuary around the Tonle Sap Lake to be as abundant as before," Minister Rabun said. The Minister declared that individuals implicated in destruction and encroachment of Tonle Sap's swamp woods will be prosecuted. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

The Ministry of Public Works' provincial agencies continue to repair and maintain national roadways that pass through their domains. From December 8 to 14, the Departments of Public Works and Transport of Kampong Chhnang, Takeo, Koh Kong, Pailin, Banteay Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Tboung Khmum, Ratanakiri, Kep, and Battambang worked on National Roads 5, 7, 8, 33, 57, 59, 33, 53, 64, 62, 72, 73, 78, 48, 48, 78-5, 48-5, 33 Some of the roads were seriously damaged and required considerable repairs in order for travelers to move efficiently and safely. As part of the government's effort to preserve national roadways, the government has released applications that citizens may use to report any damaged portions of the roads directly to the Ministry. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

As the first case of the Omicron variety was reported in Cambodia, the country continued its extraordinary run of 76 days of 'new normal' low case counts, setting a new daily COVID case low (diagnosed by PCR test) The official daily new COVID case count (as determined by PCR test) was 8, increasing the overall number of COVID cases to 120,390. Cambodians have been waiting for Omicron to arrive in the last several days, but its presence will be a setback for the Royal Government's efforts to manage the epidemic. "Omicron is spreading at a rate we have not seen with any prior form," World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Wednesday. The variety, which is said to be highly transmissible and has a greater risk of reinfection, has now spread to an estimated 77 nations across the world, with Cambodia joining a list that includes Thailand, Singapore, as well as countries in America, Asia, Europe, and Australia. Preliminary laboratory studies from Pfizer and BioNTech show that three doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine neutralize the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529 lineage), while two doses result in significantly lower neutralization titers, highlighting the importance of a third 'booster' dose in combating Omicron. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the people of Phnom Penh are taking their time getting the crucial third dosage, as seen by a visit by Khmer Times to a completely empty vaccination center in Phnom Penh yesterday. The Royal Government's valiant efforts to vaccinate Cambodians with the first and second doses may be jeopardized by the low uptake of the third immunization. Bruce Aylward, a WHO expert, has cautioned against "coming to the idea that this is a benign condition." He warned, "We could be setting ourselves up for a very perilous situation." Despite the threat of Omicron, Cambodia is forging ahead with reopening, and the Royal Government's focus is now on reestablishing a "new normal" and reintroducing Cambodia to tourists and industry by treating lesser instances of COVID at home. It's unclear whether the finding of Omicron in Cambodia will change anything. As previously stated, the dramatic drop in reported cases is due to a strategy implemented in October that excludes 'quick' testing and'mild' COVID-19 cases from the official daily case counts. Under the prior reporting scheme, there was a general increasing tendency in the Kingdom; however, the last 76 days' data have totally reversed this pattern, as seen in the graph below (please note that results may be up to two days behind): Other statistics show that there are currently 100,537 Community Instances, with 19,853 cases being imported. The disparity between Cambodia's COVID condition and that of Thailand and Vietnam, its neighbors, is astounding. The numbers (see graph below) are proof of the Kingdom's comprehensive immunization drive, which has been dubbed the "Cambodian vaccination miracle." Today, there were no imported cases announced, maintaining the pattern of few imported cases. Cambodia also revealed three further deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-19-related deaths in Cambodia to 2995. As active cases decreased, 12 recoveries were announced; there are now only 642 active COVID cases detected by PCR test in Cambodia. Cambodia has now surpassed not just its close neighbors Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam (see below) in terms of vaccination rates, but also nearly every major country in the globe, including France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany. However, due to low uptake of the third booster dose in Phnom Penh, the city's authorities have decided to keep the third 'booster' shot campaign going indefinitely. Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

Authorities in northern Laos confiscated and burned more than 200 kg of animal parts that were on the open market. In a ceremony performed on Tuesday, officers from the Luang Namtha Forest Inspection Division collected and burnt nearly 200 kg of animal parts. According to KPL, the animal corpses and parts were collected from markets around the region. Boar, muntjac, civet, cobras, and other animals and parts were discovered for sale in the province, with a total worth of almost LAK 12 million. Market merchants were given a warning after the animal parts were confiscated and destroyed on Tuesday. Despite an order issued by the Prime Minister of Laos in 2018 on the management and inspection of forbidden wild fauna and flora, poaching and wildlife trafficking remain a concern in the country. Animals and animal parts have been publicly advertised by certain sellers on social media platforms, with a substantial trade reported to take place on Tencent's WeChat. Others, ostensibly uninformed of the rules, continue to upload videos on Facebook and TikTok depicting themselves preparing and consuming endangered animals. Despite indications that wildlife trafficking in Southeast Asia has reduced as a result of pandemic restrictions and decreasing demand for wildlife items, experts think dealers are hoarding animal parts in expectation of increased demand once restrictions are lifted. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Laos was eliminated from the AFF Suzuki Cup 2020 after losing 4-0 to Malaysia in the second Group B match. Against Thursday evening, Laos took on Malaysia at Bishan Stadium, kicking off the game with three goal attempts in the opening five minutes. Malaysia rallied fast, with Safawi Rasid scoring three goals in the sixth, 33rd, and 80th minutes. In the 76th minute, Malaysian center back Sahrul Saad scored the game-winning goal for Laos. Despite the defeat, Laos coach V. Selvaraj expressed his pride in his players. On Sunday, Malaysia will meet Vietnam at Bishan Stadium. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe

Today, Laos has 1,138 cases of Covid-19 across the nation. Over the previous 24 hours, 4,254 tests were completed around the nation, with 1,138 new cases verified, according to the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. Across the country, there were 1,132 cases of community spread and six imported cases. New Deaths Due to problems concerning Covid-19, a 58-year-old man died in Phonsavath Tai Village, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital. Diabetes, hypertension, and renal illness plagued him. He wasn't immune to Covid-19 since he hadn't been immunized. Covid-19 claimed the life of a 70-year-old man in Houaykeo Village, Khamkeut District, Bolikhamxay Province. He had diabetes, renal problems, and high blood pressure. He wasn't immune to Covid-19 since he hadn't been immunized. A 68-year-old woman died lately in Namkieng Village, Naxaythong District, Vientiane Capital. She had been diagnosed with hypertension and had not had a Covid-19 vaccine. Total Cases: There are now 12,132 ongoing Covid-19 infections in Laos, with 250 confirmed fatalities and 90,458 total cases. In the meanwhile, 553 individuals were released from hospitals around the country yesterday. Rate of Vaccination Vaccinations for the first dosage have already reached 57.68 percent of the population, while vaccinations for the second dose have reached 44.80 percent. Credit Source: The Laotian Times Join our 3x a week Laotian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe Discover Cigna’s range of health insurance solutions created for expats and local nationals living in Thailand - click to view

The Mekong Flooded Forest's Sambo Wildlife Sanctuary in Kratie province is the country's second-most significant location for white-shouldered ibis. The results of the 2021 population census of white-shouldered Ibis in Cambodia, according to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), show that Sambo Wildlife Sanctuary of the Mekong Flooded Forest is the Kingdom's second most important site for conserving this critically endangered bird, after Siem Pang Wildlife Sanctuary. The countrywide study found 252 birds in Sambo, as well as a record of 16 roosting locations, while also stating that Cambodia's entire population is estimated to be 754 people. The white-shouldered Ibis has also been seen in Kulen Promtep, Lomphat, and Phnom Prich in the Eastern Plains environment, according to the report. According to the same source, the national census was carried out by a consortium of the Ministry of Environment, NatureLife/BirdLife in Cambodia (BirdLife International Cambodia Program), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS Cambodia), Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB), and Rising Phoenix. AKP -C.Nika Credit Source: Khmer Times Join our 3x a week Cambodian News, Travel and Expat information newsletter - Click to Subscribe