Embassy of Laos in Brunei Hosts New Year's Reception

(Bandar Seri Begawan, 9th) The Ambassador of the Lao People's Democratic Republic to Brunei, Sengdavanh Vongsay, recently hosted a New Year reception at his residence to celebrate the Laotian New Year.

It is known that the Laotian New Year falls in the lunar May (Gregorian April) and is one of the "Twelve Winds and Fourteen Customs." The ambassador explained that the "Twelve Winds" refer to the twelve traditional festivals of Laos, while the "Fourteen Customs" are fourteen traditional etiquette guidelines. During the festival, people across Laos engage in activities such as water sprinkling, Buddha bathing, sand stupa building, almsgiving, and seeking forgiveness for past mistakes. Particularly in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, traditional culture is distinctly evident, showcasing the ancient and unique Laotian culture everywhere.

The ambassador expressed gratitude to diplomatic envoys, business community representatives, and friends from the Chinese community in Brunei who attended the banquet.

The primary responsibilities of the Embassy of Laos in Brunei are to promote bilateral relations, provide consular services, and protect the legal rights of citizens abroad.

To enhance the festive atmosphere, the embassy prepared a variety of traditional Laotian dishes for the guests to enjoy. Attendees interacted and shared the joy of the festival in a harmonious and warm atmosphere.