MSME operators eye greater contribution to community development

A number of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Laos are increasingly contributing to the development of rural communities in line with the government’s policies and business operation practices.

The founder and owner of the Lomakham Drinking Water and Ice Factory, Mr Kia Ousitthideth, is interviewed after he was recently named a Labour Hero by the government.

Some firms are not only paying taxes to the government each year but have also significantly contributed to job creation, poverty alleviation, and other areas of socio-economic development.
Notably, one of Laos’ leading SMEs, the Lomakham Drinking Water and Ice Factory, has supported the improvement of living conditions in Khampanae and Pakuay villages in Champhone district, Savannakhet province.
The factory’s founder and owner, Mr Kia Ousitthideth, told reporters his goal was not only to make a profit from his business operations but also to support the government to eradicate poverty across Laos.
“In recent years, billions of kip have been contributed to the development of infrastructure, clearance of land, and other essential work in Khampanae and Pakuay villages,” he said.
In addition, the factory is contributing to the improvement of living conditions in Nong district of Savannakhet province by providing more clean water sources and supporting other areas of development.
“As a result, villagers now enjoy better living standards and more people have access to health services, education and other essential services,” Mr Kia said.
Thanks to its outstanding performance, the factory has been nominated for an Asean Business Award (ABA) in the SME Excellence Sector – Corporate Social Responsibility in the domestic and Asean stages.
Mr Kia said his motivation for societal development was inspired by his family background, as he was born into a disadvantaged family in a rural village in Savannakhet province.
“I sincerely thank the Party and government for allowing us to participate in the development of local communities, which is considered a priceless profit for our business operations. We are also willing to work with other businesses in community development schemes,” he added.
When asked about his business goals, he said the “Lomakham” brand of drinking water and ice products provided more options for consumers and did not intend to compete with other well-known brands. However, the high standards at the factory have been acknowledged with the awarding of ISO: 22000 certification.
Earlier this month, the government awarded Mr Kia the first ever Labour Medal for heroic and outstanding performance, in recognition of his contributions in recent years. Prior to this he was named an outstanding “National Developer”.
“Receiving the first ever award for heroic performance by the government was the most important prize for my family. It has inspired me to contribute even more to local community development based on my abilities and future possibilities,” Mr Kia said.
The government believes that the contribution of the private sector to socio-economic development is a key driver of efforts for Laos to graduate from Least Developed Country status in the years to come.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update September 30, 2022)