International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
LaoNet
PAN-LAOS
A workshop and report on
Information Technology in Laos
Proceeding from the first
"Lao Internet Technology Seminar"
International Development Research Centre (IDRC)
LaoNet
PAN-LAOS
A workshop and report on
Information Technology in Laos
Proceeding from the first
"Lao Internet Technology Seminar"
10-17 August 1995 Vientiane Laos PDR
Sponsored by IDRC
Facilitated by Lao STENO
Presented by LaoNet
Seminar team IDRC: Maria Ng Lee Hoon, David Lewis LaoNet: Soupha Muangkhot, Mark Prado, Houmphanh Thongvilu
30 January, 1996
The views expressed in this report are those of the seminar facilitators and the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the International Development Research Centre. Material contained in this report is produced as submitted and has not been subjected to peer review or editing by staff of IDRC.
TABLE OF CONTENT
I. Foreword
II. Acknowledgement
III. Disclaimer
IV. Summary
1. Introduction
1.1 Objectives
2. Background
2.1 Where is Laos?
2.2 At the beginning
2.3 IDRC PAN-LAOS project
2.4 First public Internet electronic mail in Laos.
2.5 Moving into top gear
3. Methodology
3.1 Initial work
3.2 Pre-seminar preparation
3.3 In Laos
4. Findings
5. Report
6. Recommendation
Appendices
A. List of attendees.
B. List of main speakers and affiliation.
C. Internet seminar note.
D. Survey questionnaire.
E. Application for Lao IP.
I. FOREWORD
The use of the terms Laos and Lao in the report follow a common practice in Lao, which may be confusing for non Lao accustomed reader. Laos means the country, and Lao can refer to the language or the people.
This report is a contribution to IDRC PAN-ASIA Asian countries
IT survey and report, under PAN-LAOS project. The report is of
a wider scope in a context of social political nature, as to reflect
perceived problems that exist in introducing a new technology
of global intercommunication for the masses, the Internet, to
Laos. The short and hurried timetable of the August seminar had
only provided a broad answer to the problem. It is hoped that
when an intermediate electronic mail service is available, it
would permit direct participation from Laos, allowing the total
team to meet the challenge of achieving full Internet connectivity
for Laos.
Apology for the delay in report writing due to Houmphanh personal commitment.
II. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Appreciation of IDRC sponsorship to enable the August seminar to be realised, IDRC : Maria Ng Lee Hoon, David Lewis.
Equally, much appreciated support and assistance from:
Lao STENO: Dr Souli Nanthavong, Somphone Phanousith, Pho Muangnalad, Nheune Sisavad, STENO team.
NECTEC/ThaiSarn of Thailand: Hugh Thaweesak Koanantakool, ThaiSarn team.
Chulalongkorn University: Dr. Sutham, Khanit Wattanavichien, Montree Suntichaikul
Monash University International: Brian Corbitt.
LaoNet : Mark Prado, Craig Rice, especially LaoNet Lao government liaison Europe team, Somphone Manixab (OPEC Swiss-Laos), Soupha Muangkhot, Sourythep Samoutphonh.
CISCO USA has pledged a donation of a router 2511.
III. DISCLAIMER
Much effort was taken to compile a fair and accurate report, it is however influenced by personal view. The content does not reflect the views of other organisations or members, who may or may not agree with certain points expressed in this report. It is a gathering of data, thoughts and views shared by many.
Houmphanh Thongvilu
Technical and Spokesperson for LaoNet.
Senior Computer System Engineer, Shared System Group
Monash University Computer Centre
Wellington Rd, Clayton. Victoria 3168. Australia.
Tel (61) 3 905 4749 Mobil (61) 41 2030 154 Fax (61) 3 905 4746
Email Pan@cc.monash.edu.au
IV. SUMMARY
The reader should be aware of Laos political circumstance, complex parallel and direct consequences of the Vietnam war. The effort of connecting Laos onto the global Internet had been explored for over a year by an overseas group of expatriates, LaoNet "A global network of Lao human resource" addressing to Lao issues on project to project basis. The group deeply appreciates IDRC's support in helping to realise a long overdue field study and a seminar on the technology of Internet. The main objective was to sensitise and demystify Internet to the Lao policy makers and technocrats, to enable the authority to make an informed decision with regards to public Internet use in Laos. At times, with a war time suspicion the Lao government seems overly cautious, and frustrating to work with. Nevertheless it was felt that Laos is politically stable, and ready. The net benefit will justify the effort, when knowing Lao peers have a capability to reach out to the world more easily. The existing infrastructure is certainly adequate to support an Internet connection, initially, to the capital Vientiane where there is a good concentration of foreign communities, government offices and institutions to sustain an Internet connection. In the longer term, Vientiane will be a centre of training and propagating Internet to other part of Laos. The report does not cover private data communication networks as used in banks, airlines and major international organisations, which presently either operate over telephone and leased lines or via a satellite network. There has been some 'pirate' Internet hub tested over a period in Laos via telephone dialling, but to date no permanent hub is known, except LaoNet's FidoNet hub at the National Polytechnic Institute (NPI). LaoNet's effort is concentrated on working with the government in developing a public Internet system in Laos.
During the August seminar, a survey (Appendix D) was also conducted, to gather numerical data to help assess the level of demand and readiness of Lao Information Technology (IT) communities for the Internet connection. It is now more convincing than ever that the awaited catalyst is a political signal, a legal authorisation of Internet use, coupled with stimulating commercial mechanics to enable Internet to take hold and find its place in the new Laos. Technically connecting Laos is very possible; the business and private sector are ready to invest in suitable technology of Internet to meet the demand of Laos IT customers.
Laos Information Technology status was initially conceived remotely from information received from the public, and it was generally confirmed by the August seminar and subsequent discussions with various entities and individuals.
Lao IT industry lags extremely far behind most of the advanced South East Asian countries such as Thailand, through years of neglect and the effect of the Western technology sanction against communist block countries. Until recently, Lao IT exposure was limited to simple IBM PC based word processors. There is no significant number of other general purpose computer in Laos, apart from IBM PC systems.
The handling of Lao information is complicated by the inability of hardware to deal with Lao script, requiring proficient users to have English language as a prerequisite. A critical lack of computer technology reading material in Lao further restricts the development of a user base, who depends largely on Thai reading material. Lao system development is at the moment piggybacked onto Thailand whose development of a Thai system with Thai script being similar to Lao. The recent boom of IBM PC technology, its advanced graphics capability and peripherals, is enabling Lao characters to be handled more easily and affordable. Laos since has been compiling and building a Lao database of information, namely under the supervision of Lao Science Technology, Environment National Organisation (STENO). STENO had established several IT library services for institutions to use, and had worked with Thailand's Chulalongkorn University to produce a DOS based wordprocessor called "CU Lao wordprocessor".
STENO had commissioned a Thai private company to develop a Lao
desktop publishing package, LaoWin similar to ThaiWin, which is
based on PageMaker software. Microsoft Windows with Lao fonts
forms the main platform for Lao Information system. LaoNet had
contributed five TrueType Font (TTF) sets in the public domain
use to encourage Lao use on computers for PC, MAC and X (BDF)
platforms. National Polytechnic Institute (NPI) had started experimenting
with Linux PC based Unix systems. There is no other system or
work done researching and developing a Lao system to more effectively
handle Lao language across platforms. One approach developed by
LaoNet is with the use of "Lao Romanisation for Transliteration"
(LRT) scheme. With a utility called "JakPaa" it is possible
to convert LRT text to Lao, and it would also be possible to transcribe
Lao script to LRT. Such scheme would find practical use in the
world of electronic communication, to enable mail dialogue in
Lao language.
Data sharing is limited to a small number of sites with Ethernet based Novell Local Area Network (LAN) system. Data communication knowledge is limited, remote dial via modem is foreign to local users, who however have quickly grasped the concept of global information sharing and are eagerly awaiting the means.
PC systems are mostly locally assembled with sub systems imported from Singapore and Taiwan. Local support is limited. The slow and limited exposure to computer systems information, trends and problems, cripples Laos computer knowledge. This problem is highlighted by, for example, a lack of effective tools to control PC computer viruses, frustrating many end users. Low volume and demand mean some repair need to wait for simplest spare parts to arrive from overseas. The overall problem is exacerbated by the need to cut cost, resulting in the use of lower quality parts and sub systems, affecting systems reliability and discouraging serious users. Unfavourable taxing system of anything 'foreign' encourages complete closed systems importation, under projects plan and machinery capital investment. Other government practices encourage delivery of turnkey tax free systems, breeding no incentive to fully develop local know how.
Trained technical staff is limited, many are foreign trained but having long worked in a restricted environment the knowledge base had been eroding and staff would require an updated training of current art. Considering the low volume of (1000) PCs in Laos, and a small number of proficient staff, it would be more practical to encourage the development of a single centre of expert support, until such time when demand and number would justify otherwise, which is estimated to be some 2 to 5 years.
The reality of commercialisation of Internet, as a mean for Internet to sustain itself, as a national resource should be viewed favourably, and should not be regarded as a revenue raising source. However the small Lao market size will probably not support a large number of Internet Service Providers (ISPs), but it is important for the Lao authority to avoid a monopoly situation developing. Internet is a world public resource, and its spirit lives in an open competive environment. Competition would encourage local industry to adding value and create a more diverse service.
Being a late starter has benefited Laos, in that PCs purchased
are mainly i486 or Pentium high disk capacity systems. The newly
acquired telephone system provides Laos, specifically Vientiane
with 64Kbps (ISDN) capability at kerb side for digital communication
over telephone line. The national microwave based telecommunication
infrastructure will make remote interconnection possible for future
expansion of information sharing with provinces. The geographical
land hub of Laos interconnecting South East Asia will further
advance Laos as part of the area development, especially land
based infrastructure such as fibre optic global network. An improved
computer communication will not only benefit local industry but
also bring about Laos contribution to the world, for instance
the feed of news from Laos KPL to the world news grid will enrich
all.
For a country with excess power to sell, Laos suffers from effective
power delivery to the homes. Illegal wiring, power stealing and
poor line maintenance result in poor power condition, 30% of repair
is contributed to power supply failure. Power line conditioner
and uninterrupted power supply (UPS) unit should be mandatory
for critical systems.
The foreign communities in Laos who are used to effective means of telecommunication are being starved and crippled in conducting their business and programs without the effective tool of electronic mail and ready global data access. As a newly country opening to the world and thus communicating with the world, it relies heavily on more costly traditional telephone and fax in doing business. Cost is blamed for the sometimes 'lack' of communication with Lao business people and officials, not so often blamed on a lack of world standard work ethics and practices. This topic was well covered during the seminar; that technology development needs to be met with equal development in human resource, sensitively, with awareness of investment and development of the total social capital.
The seminar was well received, a success. The new 'open' policy of the Lao P.D.R. has been timely with the warming of the global cold war. The liberalising and implementation of the government market economy reforms, is urging Laos to acquire a minimum set of tools equal to Laos' trading partners, to compete sees the need to reach out onto the global information super highway. The Lao government welcome such initiative. It is acknowledged that Internet availability to the public and business is a political issue rather than a technical problem. Lack of finance to build the needed infrastructure complicates the matter. The need and the desire are real but are somewhat of a lower priority on the national agenda.
The seminar succeeded in demystifying what is Internet to the policy makers. It convinced the technocrats that such tool is essential for the development of Laos and Lao global communities. It showed an affordable way to tap onto the total Lao global human resource to assist in developing the country.
A consensus was reached at the seminar. All delegates urged the government to strive to achieve Internet connectivity at government institutions and business as soon as possible. The implementation, and the introduction of this new and radical tool will be phased in a controlled manner. STENO will continue to be the national coordination centre, in cooporation with LaoNet and other organisation, such as IDRC in:
1.INTRODUCTION
The report is intended to provide an overview Information Technology and computer industry of Laos in general. The information is most relevant to the effort of achieving a Lao self-sustainable Internet connectivity. The research and gathering of information have been conducted at a distance, over a year (1994-1995) and it was generally substantiated by direct discussion with relevant Lao government departments during the 10-17 August 1995 "Lao Internet Technology Seminar" conducted by LaoNet, in Vientinae, capital of Laos.
The seminar was sponsored by IDRC Pan Asia Networking Program Initiative, and was facilitated by Science, Technology, Environment National Organisation (STENO), a government department. A team of three LaoNet members and two IDRC staff members were on hand . The seminar was supported by Thailand National Electronic and Communication Technology, Environment Commission (NECTEC) and Chulalongkorn University computer resources as gateways onto the Internet for a demonstration of the Internet resource. Monash University International provided outline of remote campus course work on human resource development.
The objectives of the August seminar were to:
Chapter 2. Background, gives an overview of Laos' economic, social and political status. It describes how the working party came together and how the PAN-LAOS project was developed.
Chapter 3. Methodology, highlights the work involved thus far. Initial Lao government lobbying, pre-seminar work and the August seminar.
Chapter 4. Finding, compiles the result and data.
Chapter 5. Report, gives an analysis of the data and a summary of the situation.
Chapter 6. Recommendation, is a compilation of action plans to achieve Lao Internet connectivity and public access.
2. BACKGROUND
2.1 Where is Laos?
Laos is the only landlocked South East Asian country, a natural land hub interconnecting China, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. A recent survey recorded a population of 4.5 million, with 16.5% illiteracy rate (government's figure). The Laos People Democratic Republic was proclaimed in December 1975, with the change of political balance in South East Asia (Vietnam war). Laos is a member of the socialist communist block countries, of a single central controlled government. The gross National product is estimated to be $250.00 per capita ('95 figure, inflation rate at 20%). Mainly a subsistence economy, its natural resource remains mostly unexploited and untapped. Laos is a poor and isolated developing country, which had suffered much from the misfortune of war and neglect. Remote and removed from the world, little is known about the infrastructure of the country. The problem was made worst with significant brain drain due to political retribution after the war (1975), with some 300000 people fleeing the country.
Since 1979, as the communist model showed signs of poor performance, economically, it became a preoccupation of eastern block governments to look at market economy reforms to address to public discontentment, demands and expectation. The 'JinTanarKarnMhei' or the 'New mechanic policy' was designed to gain the population's confidence, and set new path to encourage foreign investment. The change to economy driven policy saw compromises in other hard line policies, however national sovereignty and security continue to dominate decision making.
Today Laos still depends largely on foreign aid, and since the communist block can no longer sustain such support, Laos is looking more and more to the Western world for assistance. With a chapter of the global cold war closed, Laos is beginning to venture cautiously into the open world, learning as it goes due to a lack of human resource and know how to deal with the new world. The desire of Laos to catch up with the world, has influenced many liberal reforms. The government has adopted a more conciliatory position in an effort to call on Lao expatriate overseas community to help develop the country. It recognises the potential contribution of Lao total human resource outside the country, now of a significant number of higher educated professionals, bonded by patriotism. To cultivate such productive partnership requires goodwill from all parties, to work together and take initiatives.
2.2 At the beginning.
In early 1994 a group of regular Internet Usenet electronic bulletin board 'Soc.Culture.Laos', which is a forum for discussion of Lao affairs. The group was drawn together all convinced of the value of Internet as a resource to be shared. Its possibility as a vehicle to promote, preserve and to share Lao culture; with Lao people, inside the country, the expatriate communities and foreigner. As observed in other models of Internet use, the exchange of views breeds better understanding and tolerance. It dissolves distance, barriers of ignorance and tension. Vast world resources are readily available, an invaluable data bank needed for the development of the country and its people. The improved process of dissemination of information will encourage trust, and dialogue leading to a better working relationship and cooporation. In such favourable atmosphere of partnership, empower the Lao people, to draw on the total Lao global resource to work on resolving Lao issues as they arise, in parallel with other conventional processes. It is generally acknowledged that politically, economically and socially Laos and Lao people will benefit from the Internet cost effective intercommunication for the masses.
Laos does not have Internet connectivity. This led the group to investigate ways on how to realise such connectivity, 'Lao Internet node' project was conceived. A group called LaoNet was formed, based mainly on electronic mail (Email), consisting of a few Lao expatriates across the world. LaoNet is not a microcosm of Lao communities, but rather an affordable linkage of many resources to realise a common vision, relying on goodwill and voluntary work by members. Mail is forwarded and distributed via a mailing list. The group soon was overwhelmed with offer of assistance from many quarters, Lao and foreigners alike. To foster such goodwill from all and diverse sources, LaoNet was expanded with a charter to welcome all well wishers to truly become "A global network of Lao Human resource", on the 28 October 1994.
LaoNet is a project oriented entity. It therefore is a multiple partnered working group. LaoNet is actively, keenly seeking and developing new projects relevant to Lao communities as the prime objective.
2.3 IDRC PAN-LAOS project
LaoNet 'Lao Internet node' project led us to the International Development Research Centre's (IDRC) regional office in Singapore. IDRC is a Canadian government sponsored organisation. Which shares a common goal of interconnecting Laos and other developing countires on the Internet. IDRC PAN-ASIA project aims to promote research through the sharing of information in Asia and in the world, aided by technology such as the Internet. PAN-ASIA is assisting in the Internet connectivity of many countries of Asia, Laos is the last few countries of the region to achieve connectivity.
The developement of the IDRC PAN-LAOS project involved LaoNet, in order to draw on the team's Lao language support and natural understanding of the culture, combine with an inside awareness of the impact of such technology on Lao people. Besides, LaoNet had succeeded in lobbying the Lao government and had gained Lao Cabinet approval to investigate Lao connectivity on the government's behalf.
2.4 First public Internet electronic mail service in Laos.
To further enhance participation in the project from Laos, without having to depend on costly standard fax and telephone communication, LaoNet had established the first public email service in Laos, at the National Polytechnic Institute in December 1994, using a Fidonet technology system that is served by dialling out to Permanet.org host in Washington DC in America. It was intended as an experimental email service, that would service the group as well as 'test' the email system. However mixed result was achieved due to a lack of support and understanding at high level of the use of the resource. Nonetheless it provided NPI with valuable introduction to an Email system. The Lao Science, Technology and Environment National Organisation (STENO), is presently taking charge of the internal coordination.
2.5 Moving into top gear
LaoNet, and IDRC's long working relationship with Laos' STENO form a partnership to fast track the project and gives much promise to Lao Internet connectivity. To sensitise Internet, and to gain relevant data, LaoNet was sponsored by IDRC to conduct the first "Lao Internet Technology Seminar" in Vientiane 10-17 August 1995.
3. METHODOLOGY
3.1. Initial work
The August seminar is the result of a year long behind the scene lobbying the Lao government. The late coming of face-to-face discussion and on site data gathering was hampered by lack of financial support due to the volunteer nature of operation of LaoNet. The situation is not helped by the cautious and some time almost paranoia position of the Lao government. A picture of Lao infrastructure was constructed remotely, from information forwarded by LaoNet members and the Internet community. Much from Lao public servants whilst on training abroad, other source was from visiting and returning Lao expatriates and foreigners, working in Laos under various projects.
There was the need to work directly with people in Laos, to assess and gather relevant data accurately without having to resort to expensive traditional means of fax and telephone communication, the very objective of Internet connectivity. LaoNet started to investigate setting up an Email service in Laos. An intermediate step, but part of the full Internet service. After having identified Lao National Polytechnic Institute (NPI) being a well equipped institution, with adequate resource to support such service, LaoNet member Mark Prado, an Internet consultant working in Bangkok (Thailand), while on a visit to Laos made contact with NPI, conducted a demonstration and established the first Email service into Laos in December 1994 using a MSDOS based FidoNet technology.
However full Laos participation and usage of the NPI Email resource was not fully achieved due to the lack support and understanding at higher authority, a chicken and egg issue. None the less NPI staff had gained some invaluable exposure to an Email system.
Lack of fund for the telephone physical link dial out to the Permanet.org in Washington DC further restricted the frequency of use ( higher throughput and reliability was achieved by dialling to the US). Permanet.org is providing Internet mail store and forward service at no cost for dial in, thanks to Mark's association with Permanet.
LaoNet lobby of Lao diplomats on visit to Europe continued to be more successful. Lao goverment clearance for the seminar was also lobbied. Credit goes to Swiss-Laos OPEC with Somphone, Sourythep and Soupha being LaoNet Lao government liaison people, a truly global team work effort.
3.2 Pre-seminar preparation
3.2.1 Laos IP address.
LaoNet had applied and obtained from the Asia Pacific Network Internet Centre (APNIC) for a designate country Internet Protocol (IP) class B address (202.58.0.0) with top level domain's name .LA, which will permit Laos to allocate some sixty four thousand sub addresses to users. STENO was named as the network administrative body, with NPI being a secondary support and further technical support from the US and Australia LaoNet members. As for Domain Name Server (DNS), the first server was intended to be NECTEC and the backup server to be St.Olaf in the US.
In any case all the listing (apart from IP address) can be changed on notice to APNIC by named administrative bodies.
3.2.2 Seminar planning
Help with preparing for the seminar was sought from various source of expertise, from individuals who had worked on similar project in the area; such as Andrew Garton from Pegasus who did a survey of Cambodia, Rob Hurle from COOMBS from Australia National University (ANU) who was involved in setting up the Vietnam Internet, Robert Elz (kre) from Melbourne University who helped establish Thailand's Internet, Hugh Thaweesak Kaonantakool from Thailand NECTEC/ThaiSarn, and of course from IDRC team members.
It was acknowledged from the outset that Lao Internet connectivity and usage is a political issue, only the Lao government can realise it on the public scale. Thus, the August session was targeted at the policy makers to raise the level of awareness and understanding of Internet amongst the potential users and technocrats.
To overcome the language barrier and achieve a broader impact, it was decided the seminar would be conducted in Lao. The non existence of Internet training material in Lao ment much preparation failed on seminar LaoNet members. The agenda was developed jointly with IDRC, with emphasis on the importance of technological advancement to be met with equal human development; such as work ethic and practices of world standard. Human resources development falls well onto Monash University with much remote campus material already available in Australia. Monash University International's Vientiane University College could provide course work quality assurance.
Based on a draft agenda sent to STENO, a seminar timetable and invitation was organised.
The team had prepared World Wide Web (WWW) pages for Netscape Web program, PC presentation software and pre-prepared documents on portable PCs, and on transparency. IDRC came prepared with a PC overhead projector that it intended to leave it behind for STENO use. Equipment necessary for the demonstration was all imported, such as modems down to telephone wire, connectors and clips.
3.2.3 Thailand support
Whilst on transit in Bangkok, Soupha and Houmphanh met with Hugh Thaweesak Kaonantakool, Director of ThaiSarn and a ThaiSarn team, to confirm discussion of points already covered in emails. The Lao seminar objectives were explained, and the mention of possible further NECTEC assistance was explored. NECTEC/ThaiSarn is working under the government mandate of science and technology cooporation with neighbouring countries. The NECTEC assistance to LaoNet/IDRC team during the seminar, was to assist with the demonstration by providing computer resource as a gateway onto the Internet. Thailand is the logical and most practical connection point for Laos to get onto the Internet network. Thailand and Laos has a similar scheme for international telephone trunk interconnection. For a backup gateway, arrangement was made with Chulalonkorn University, the cooporation was confirmed at a meeting with Dr. Southam, Montree Suntichaikul and Khanit Wattanavichien. The final fall back position would be to dial to the IDRC server in Singapore.
3.3 Work in Laos
(Working hours: Morning 8:00a.m to 11:30a.m. Afternoon 2:00p.m to 5:00p.m)
The seminar team was received at Wattay Airport by STENO welcoming party and taken to the Asia Pavilion hotel.
Morning
Meeting with STENO team of members: Nheune Sisavad, Miss Sisavan, Dr. Viengsavan, Samano, Somlouay.
Work on final workshop agenda, discussion, assess needs and desire, drafting session of a wish list. Site testing and preparation,
Afternoon 2 teams:
Mark & David, site preparation and testing .
Maria, Soupha and Houmphanh, meeting with :
Somlith Phouthonesy, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Communications, Transports, Posts and Construction.
Papdaphet Sayakhot, Deputy Director of Laos Enterprise of Telecommunication.
to gain Laos telecommunication infrastructure information.
Morning
Mark & David, site preparation and testing. Informal training of STENO staff.
Maria, Soupha and Houmphanh; meeting with computer suppliers to ascertain information on the level of computer penetration in Laos. Three were organised but the time available only permitted a visit to two main suppliers:
Afternoon
Mark & David, site preparation and testing. Informal training of STENO staff.
Test dial to NECTEC, Chulalongkorn (Bangkok) and IDRC (Singapore).
Maria, Nheune, Sisavan, Viengsavan, Samano, Soupha and Houmphanh: further seminar planning, discussion of desire and needs. drafting of proposals.
Morning
Private presentation for Somphone Phanousith, Deputy Director of Cabinet, (responsible of Science and Technology Policy) and Pho Muangnalad, Director of Lao Cabinet.
-IDRC PAN-ASIA project, LaoNet, Internet, WWW demo.
(Maria left VTE)
Afternoon
Mark & David, site preparation and script testing. Informal training of STENO staff.
Nheune, Sisavan, Viengsavan, Samano, Soupha and Houmphanh, drafting of proposals (continue). Handouts preparation.
Morning
-Opening by Pho Muangnalad.
-David Lewis introduced IDRC PAN-ASIA project.
-Houmphanh explained LaoNet and projects.
-Followed by live Web demonstration.
(David left VTE)
Afternoon
-Technical (Houmphanh) 'What is Internet', network (Soupha), and more live demonstration (Mark).
Morning
Human issues: Human resources, local and global. Work ethics and practices, staff development (Houmphanh and Soupha).
Afternoon
Future issues: NGO, development, cooporation, 'Face to Face' project
(Houmphanh and Soupha).
Morning
-Summary, consensus reached.
-Questions and answers.
-Closing by Somphone Phanousit. Deputy Director of Lao Cabinet.
All government sixteen ministries (Appendix B) were invited with each ministry sending two representatives, additionally there were commercial and business participants, altogether totalling 35 participants. Australian ADAB officer, John Adams attended as an observer.
3. FINDINGS
3.1 Survey and assess the needs and readiness of Lao Information Technology community
Of the total attendance (see Appendix A. List of attendees) of thirty seven, with two representatives from some department, twenty four completed a questionnaire which was in Lao and English (see Appendix D)
Personal Detail (optional)
18 returned with details, 6 have no names.
Organisation:
Government Business Education Private Unknown
13 3 2 2 4
System usage
PC MAC Other
Do you have access to a all 1 ?
computer ?
Total 94 1 3
Note. A Nox Data system at the Electricity Commission was mentioned.
Do you have your own computer?: 8
What do you use the computers for?:
Wordprocessor Fax Email Programming Database Other
17 1 3 5 12 1
What operating system do you use?:
DOS /MSWindows Mac Unix Other
24 1 1 0
System maintenance
How is your system being maintained?:
Service department Supplier Other
10 8 1
Number of direct support staff:
No of 1 2 3 4 5 6
staff
3 1 1 1 0 6
Physical link
Do you have a direct dial IDD yes no don't know
telephone line ?
11 5 8
What is your average monthly telephone bill ?
Local Combined Overseas
? 5
U$10-30 3 1
U$31-100 3
U$101-200 3
U$201-500
Note One computer supplier and other of his business quoted a combined telephone bill of U$2000.00/month.
General questions
If you currently have an Internet connection : Only one site answered yes
Who is your current service provider? Permanet.org
What charging rate per kilobyte are you accustomed to US$? International call rate.
If you do not yet have Internet connection
Would you be interested for immediate connection to the Internet?
Yes Don't know
16 8
If it is deferred, none deferred how long? (all skipped this question)
Would you be interested in setting up a redistribution hub?
Yes No answer
9 15
What mail service delivery would you prefer:
Real 1/2-1hr 2-4hrs 1/2days 1-2 days 2-4 days
time
5 0 3 0 1 2 7
Payment
Would you be interested to pay in advance for a guaranteed service at a discounted rate ?:
yes no no answer
8 1 15
3.2 Assess the level of Information Technology usage, the penetration of PC in Laos.
It was ascertained that office of UNDP, Electricity Commission, Bureau of Statistic, NPI are the major sites with clusters of LAN networked PC's. There are some ten computer suppliers in Vientiane covering the whole Laos., of which 4 can be considered as wholesalers. Each wholesaler is estimated to move some 10 PCs per month, already doubling last year figure. As the standard of living increases it is expected the volume to increase at the same rate this financial year.
Currently there is some one thousand (1000) PCs in Laos, mainly in Vientiane; 60% in government department and educational institutes, 20% in business, 5% domestic and 15% of unknown.
PC usage is based on DOS/MSwindows Lao version, mainly for word processor using MSWord. Turbo C is used but the extent of software development could not be assessed, equally of DBase usage.
NPI had installed Linux on a cluster of PCs for investigation.
3.2 Identify potential user base.
Government and educational institutions are seen to be the major users of computer. The business sector only had begun to use computer, mainly for wordprocessing or conducting computer training school. The seminar had raised awareness of the use of computer for data communication such as for email and Fax, making computer an attractive all-in-one business tool. All are keen to acquire the newly discovered tool. As for the foreign community who is already aware of the tool, they await the government authorisation and the means.
3.4 Identify a potential support group.
Computer suppliers have more up to date information, but compared to other countries they operate on a smaller scale owing to Laos' market size. Government offices such as STENO and NPI holds the trained man power to set a computer support group. Ideally, one would see a seconding of trained staff from various departments to form a task force of expert support group. No doubt it would require some commercial interest to drive and setup the group. Laos' computer market size (1000) would be too small to be financially viable otherwise, in the short to medium term of 2 years.
3.5 Discuss the issue of commercialisation of Internet Service.
Commercialising of Internet is a reality, it was a well lobbied and acknowledged by the government. It is in line with government policy to encourage new technology industry to develop and be self reliant. However at this early stage, it is beyond the government grasp to formulate a suitable policy to guide the industry. Government officials hinted an introduction of Internet to Laos in a controlled manner, giving the authority time to fully analyse its impact.
3.6 Investigate and gather information on existing infrastructure, to support the connectivity.
Old telephone system
As far as Vientiane is concerned, the telephone availability is high. Domestic usage is restricted to the old exchange identifiable without country code phone number. It also serves the majority of government general offices. They are of poorer line quality and would probably only support data communication at a baud rate of no more than 1200bps. The system is not capable of direct dial out of the country or be polled from overseas. Overseas call from such system cost some Baht100/3 minutes (U$4.00) via a congested operator connection.
New telephone system
Selected government offices, business sector and people of influence have access to new International Direct Dial (IDD) lines from a new digital exchange, with country code 856-21 for VTE. The lines have been tested to work well at rate up to 14.4kbps. It is worth noting that although Bangkok (BKK) is nearer, the line quality to BKK is poor, compared with dialling to the US with better result and effective throughput. The new digital system also provides Vientiane with ISDN 64kbps capability at the kerb side. Leased lines are available at U$1500/month. Currently, only three lines are used by banks and airline businesses. Standard IDD rate varies between U$1.20 and $1.50 per minute, including to BKK. Vientiane is also serviced by analogue and digital GSM mobile phone system.
The national 64kbps microwave link, covers major cities from north to south, carrying mainly telephone traffic. IDD has reached LuangPrabang, Laos second largest city, with (856) 71 code, however the extend of availability is not known.
Satellite option
Satellite 64kbps circuit is available from Intelsat at a cost of U$590/month. The virtual connection to anywhere in the world would then be possible. Satellite physical link, although possible to service Internet link, because of the delay in bouncing data up and down, the technology is more suitable for 'batched', stored and forward services such as UUCP feed. It is not suitable for real time services eg. for World Wide Web, the delay would make its use impractical. The delay will be even more intolerable during peak period due to the already congested demand on the satellite link. The link is already subscribed to by Lao telephone authority as a backup trunk for international telephone service.
Fibre optic cable
The government telecommunication authority has been approached by some international company involved in establishing around the world fibre optic network, to complete the missing link between HongKong and Singapore. It was spoken of a land based link via Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia and finally complete the world circuit in Singapore.
Power
For a country with excess power to sell, Vientiane and the whole of Laos suffers from the lack of effective power delivery to the homes. Domestic and general business still suffers from poor line condition, which contributes to the majority of electrical equipment failure. Power conditioning and uninterrupted power supply (UPS) would be invaluable for critical computer system.
4. REPORT
4.1 Lao Government view
The government has a genuine need for new technology such as the Internet, realising the pressure of market economy demand of such tool in conducting business in the nineties. There has been similar precedent when Fax machines came to Laos. The government tried to control it, but today it has become an integral part of doing business. The government is aware of the negativity of Internet, at the same acknowledging the net benefit of Internet services. To further develop an appropriate policy, government officials had hinted the need for an introduction of Internet to Laos in a controlled manner, with STENO being the focal point of implementation. This would allow the government time to analyse the technology impact phase by phase. At the same time it would allow authorised users to gain hands on experience. The preliminary authorisation of Internet use will come in the form of a Lao Cabinet decree, starting with government ministries and educational communities, with keen flexibility for business sector and aid communities. The government is conscious of the reality and the need for the service to be self sustaining on a business basis. Such venture would help in financing and developing the required infrastructure. An alternative to achieve Internet connectivity with the Lao government incurring no cost would be some kind of foreign aid. Experience of Internet growth in other countries, has shown its potential to contribute and subsidise the educational sector and thus becoming an important national resource.
4.1.1 A sensitivity issue
Remanence of war time paranoia still persists in some official sector. It has been expressed that the Lao government would prefer Internet traffic transiting a trusted country. It was explained that in the virtual world of Internet, it is possible. However let us concentrate the effort on getting pass the first post of connectivity first. The luxury of choices can be explored at a later stage when the Lao government is more fully aware of all the options. The plain facts of this technology would disolve fear of information blockade or tampering. It was explained that Internet is not a secured network, it is rather an open media for sharing information. Any sensitive material would go through existing normal channel. It was also clarified that Internet traffic can be made relatively more secure using encryption technology.
4.2 Infrastructure
4.2.1 Physical link
Laos, Vientiane specifically for this effort of Internet connectivity is highly Internet capable. The digital direct dial telephone system and leased lines availability are better than many parts of Thailand that has achieved 64kbps link onto the Internet.
4.2.2 Computer power
The advance of PC today dwarfs some computers of yesteryear that fully supported Internet. Today plug and play hardware and its reliability combined with well designed, robust operating systems and tools, permit Internet connectivity to the most remote parts of the world; Laos is more than Internet capable.
4.2.3 Resource; human and finance
Laos lacks the know how, which the government is working hard on building. There are many overseas trained staff who are well equipped to be trained for the task of looking after the Lao Internet network. Given the relative size of Lao network it will be possible to recruit a team of local experts. Once, a connection is made into the world information cyberspace, it will be possible for Laos to tap into the total Laos global network of support. Finance is a key issue and hard to resolve. Internet is of a lower level in the order of priority on the Lao government list. It therefore leaves no option for the commercial needs of the Internet to drive its infrastructure development. Proper government guiding will benefit all.
4.3 Commercial Internet viability
There is some urgency for Laos to gain valuable new technology exposure. Internet is the world largest library of information, ready for tapping. To achieve immediate Internet connectivity, without putting a burden on the government financially, it is unavoidable for Laos not to follow the path of commercialising Internet, on the basis of users pay. Commercial interest has the ability to realise and complete projects suitable to demand. However commercial interest may develop into protectionism of market share leading to a monopoly situation. A single control of Internet will be negative, and destroy the spirit of Internet, which strives in a free, open and sharing of information.
Base on the current market size (1000 PC's), given the good reception at the August seminar it is realistic to expect 20% of PC's owners (50 users) to subscribe to Internet service immediately. Discussion of U$40.00 subscription fee and a monthly charge of U$30.00, plus some volume charge of 15 cents per kilobyte for local users was well received. With Laos economy increasing at 8% pa, the doubling of PC's sale and ownership can be expected. It is likely the figure would double within 2 months to 100 subscribers. Once the official permission of use of the Internet is given by the government, within 6 months to a year, the demand would flatten around 400 subscribers with total expected number of PC's to reach 2000. Within 2 years, the demand would be saturated at about 1500 subscribers of the total number of PC's of 7000 at the end of 1997. Note, that these are paying customers, excluding government and education institutions users. The government users should not be exempted from contributing to the cost of the service to build an appreciation of the resource.
It is not too optimistic either to forecast a doubling of the number of all subscriber figures.
4.4 Support
Given the market size of Laos and the small number of proficient support staff, it is expected that local experts will pool resources and develop a centralised support group, on some semi commercial basis. Once a reliable electronic mail service is established, Laos would no longer be isolated. Laos would have access to the total global network of support and expert advice.
Further discussion and size of local support group is discussed in the "recommendation's" section following.
4.5 Training
In the initial stage, a "train Lao trainers" phase would see the expansion of local know how. The most foreseeable need is in the training of 1.Unix operating system, required for Internet system operation, maintenance and network debugging. When dealing with information, data would require proper planning of 2.backup procedure and system restoration. Internet applications are relatively user friendly, it however needs the support of 3.proper documentation. As far as hardware maintenance is concerned, today modular design of hardware makes field servicing relatively easy given 4.access to logistic and proper handling practices. It is also important to avoid a single point of failure, where a critical systems failure can affect the total network. Therefore, selection of equipment should favour system of being totally supportable within Laos.
6. RECOMMENDATION
With these points in mind and limited resource, the different steps to achieve Lao Internet are as follows:
6.1 Intermediate
Implementation: FidoNet DOS based system similar to NPI to be setup at STENO. Giving STENO the capability to part take with overseas partners in finalising Laos Internet connectivity. If funding can be found, the hubs can be polled saving IDD cost with overseas rate driven down by comptetion in telephone services. Selected customer with needs and ability to pay can immediately be enrolled to contribute to the running cost of the system. Collection point for fees would be at the ISP end which services and feeds Laos.
Service available: Email, Fax, FTPmail, Gophermail, WAISmail.
(FTPmail (File Transfer Protocol), Gophermail, WAISmail (Wide Area Information Service) are Internet offline information retrieval tools from an email request sent to a server site which will return the requested information via email to the sender).
Equipment needed (Cost):
- 14.4kbps modem ($300.00)
- A dedicated IDD line (call cost if dial out).
- An ISP host (Permanet.org, special arrangement ).
- Shareware software (free).
Time frame: Immediate.
Duration: To be replaced by phase 1 installation. FidoNet can be retained to provide cheap email service to the provinces.
Comment:
- It is intended as a mean of maintaining the momentum built up by the August seminar and demonstration.
- Familiarise Lao staff with an email system, and providing a platform for hands on training with STENO and NPI hubs intercommunicating over local telephone dialling.
(Although this step was completed during the August seminar, for some unknown reason the link has not been used. Various reasons were given : the hub awaits for a dedicated IDD line, the modem went faulty, staff do not know how to use it. It is most disappointing!)
6.2- Phase 1. Unix to Unix Copy Program (UUCP) system.
Implementation The exchange of data (dialling for connection) will be set according to need and affordability. The Lao hub, will probably be located at STENO, and it will be connected to the world via a 14.4kbps modem. The system will be accessible by end users with account on the main system via a pool of modems. To minimise connection time and increase modem availability, end users should be encouraged to use offline email reader such as Eudora. It should also be favourably considered to implement localised hub using FidoNet email technology to further expand on email availability.
The exchange of information or 'feed' with a host system, is determined by the cost of international telephone calls. Arrangement will need to be finalised with a host system which will be Laos' Internet Service Provider such as NECTEC, SINGNET, Australian National University (ANU) or Monash University.
Commercialising the service should be expanded from the intermediate step.
Service available: Email, Fax, FTP-mail, Gophermail, WAISmail. This is not a full Internet connection.
Equipment needed (Cost):
- A multi user computer (????).
- A 14.4/28.8 kbps modem ($300).
- A pool of modems (rack mount 16 x $200) connected to local lines (and overseas).
- Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) ($2000).
- UUCP software (freely available).
- UUCP host(s) eg. NECTEC, IDRC, COOMBS, virtually from anywhere limited by phone cost.
- Online/offline mail reader Eudora (freeware).
Time frame: As soon a proposal can be drafted, and finance of the setup be sourced. With an expectation of a UUCP hub to be operational by April 1996.
Duration: It is expected that Phase I will be replaced by a full Internet connection within 12 months (1996). The UUCP experience gained will help setting up UUCP link to remote part of Laos.
Comment:
This setup requires a centralised computer capable of supporting multiple users.
(STENO had recently signed for IDRC funding, following STENO acceptance of a proposal http://www.idrc.org.sg/idrc/pan/laos.htm)
6.3 Phase II. Leased line full Internet link.
Implementation: This phase will be an expansion of phase 1 with a redeployment of existing equipment. Other new elements of the network such as a router, name server, CSU/DSU will be introduced into the system. The setup will begin to take the shape of a typical Internet connection, and a good system design should be flexible and cater for further system expansion.
Service available: Full Internet services; Email, Fax, FTP-mail, Gopher, WWW, WAIS etc...
Equipment needed (Cost):
-CSU, DSU unit for 64kpbs link over leased line ($6000, although cost may be absorbed by Thailand/NECTEC/TOT aid package).
- A multi user computer (redeploy system from Phase I, to be used as name servers and possibly as a file server).
- A router/firewall. (LaoNet has approached CISCO in the US which had expressed their willingness to donate a CISCO2511 router in return for publicity).
- A pool of modems (redeploy rack mount 16 x $200) connected to local lines (and overseas).
- Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) ($2000, from Phase I).
- ISP, most practical being NECTEC/ThaiSarn.
- Online/offline mail reader Eudora (freeware).
Time frame: It is expected this step will come within 12 months after Phase I.
Duration: It is expected that Phase II will be maintained for at least 2 years. On going system improvement should be phased in little by little, and Laos keeping with the world Internet technology.
Comment: The system in this stage, is now an online system. The issue of system security should be considered to safeguard against wilful data tampering and access, typically a FireWall should be included in the system design for this purpose. The system no longer relies on a 'central computer' to serve multiple users. Although such server still exists the total system is now more functionally distributed. Each components of the network, or systems, assume specific role or roles. Much of these roles are within the capability of PC's.
An ideal setup: With these distributed roles assigned to separate computers, as part of the total network of Internet, it is possible to design a system based on PC's. Thus meeting the criteria of local support of hardware. With PC power of a i486 and beyond, combined with stable public domain Unix operating system (Linux, NetBSD), the system will provide Laos with adequate Internet services, until such time when Laos can justify and can support a more elaborate system.
6.4 Estimated support team
Function Personel
Intermediat I II
e
Hardware maintenance 0 1 1
Customer services 1 1 1
Marketing 2 2 2
Management and planning 1 2 2
Accountant (combined with management) 0 0 0
Workshop and conference (as needed) x x x
Consultant (as needed) x x x
The cost of operational staff should be fully recovered from total income from use of all part of the network.
6.5 Assistance
6.5.1 Assistant from Thailand
Thailand is the logical connection point for Laos. Discussion have been conducted with NECTEC (Hugh Thaweesal Koanantakool) by LaoNet. This requirement is critical to Lao full Internet connection in Phase II. With Thai language similar to Lao, and Thailand advance in Internet know how, Thailand will be invaluable to train Lao IT people. Thailand's Science and Technology Ministry already had formulated a plan of technological support and cooporation with neighbouring countries. Being a national issue such dialogue would need to pass through respective Foreign Ministries, via existing diplomatic channel, specifically Thai-Lao Cooporation Committee. Once the approval is obtained, the implementation will be the easy part. ThaiSarn, a commercial arm of NECTEC, 'the only official Internet Service Provider ' (ISP) can be providing the logical feed to Laos, or any other ISP in the virtual world of Internet can.
Phase II full Internet connection means online permanent connection onto the Internet network. This can be met with the use of 64kbps commercial leased line from Bangkok (BKK) to Vientiane (VTE), which is worth U$1500/month (U$900/month Thai segment BKK-NongKhai and U$600/month Lao portion, NongKhai-VTE). Once Phase II is fully supported by Thai and Lao at the governments level, it would possible to develop a Thai-Lao aid package (with Thailand's TOT approval) to absorb the cost of the leased line. Or an alternative aid donor would need to be found to minimise the operational cost.
LaoNet will continue to seek assistance from various entities, such as IDRC, NECTEC and TOT of Thailand as an aid package to assist Laos with a telephone leased line for the full implementation of Internet.
APPENDICES
A. List of attendees at the August 95 workshop.
Government departments:
Foreign Affairs
Commerce
Cultural
Education
Telecommunication and Construction
Interior
Industry
City of Vientiane
Finance (Monetary)
Law
Lao Cabinet ministry
Planning and Corporation
National Polytechnic Institute
Health
Science and Technology
Post Telecommunication
News service (KPL)
Business
MicroTec
Davone
Palay Pty
Observer
Australian Aid Development officer, John Adams.
B. List of main speakers and affiliation.
STENO, P.O Box: 2279, Vientiane, LAOS.
Tel: (856) 213470-71 Fax: (856) 213472
-Pho Muangnalad, Director of Cabinet.
-Somphone Phanousith, Deputy Director of Cabinet Responsible for Science and Technology Policy.
-Nheune Sisavad, Director of Department of Industrial Property Standardization and Metrology.
IDRC Asia regional Office.
Tanglin. P.O Box :101, Singapore 912404.
Tel: (65) 235-1344 Fax: (65) 235-1849
- Maria Ng Lee, Co-Team leader Pan Asia Networking (PAN)
Email: MariaNgLeeHoon@idrc.org.sg
- David Lewis, PAN resource person.
LaoNet.
- Mark Prado, LaoNet's member.
Email: mark@ksc5.th.com
Tel: (66) 2 319-0503 to 0513 ext. 1217
Fax: (66) 2 319-0570 (Mark attention)
Internet Consultant based in Bangkok.
- Brice Soupha Muangkhot, LaoNet's Lao government liaison team member.
Email: Brice@ibm.fr
IBM France, EMEA DCE Centre of Competency
1, Plcae JB, Clement
93881 Noisy le Grand cedex (FRANCE)
Tel: (33) 1 49 314988 Fax: : (33) 1 49 315256
- Houmphanh Thongivilu, LaoNet's Technical and Spokesperson.
Email: Pan@cc.monash.edu.au
Senior Computer System Engineer, Computer Centre.
Monash University, Wellington Rd, Clayton 3168. AUSTRALIA
Tel: (61) 3 9905 4749 Fax: (61) 3 9905 4746
C. Seminar note
Topic: What is Internet and how does it work
-History and development of the Internet
-UUCP/TCP/IP 1st Internet
-FidoNet
-NSFnet
-Growth
-Network
-Bandwidth
-Topology
-Ethernet
-Token ring
-ISO Layers
-Routing
-Domain
-Internet tools
-Connection
-Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
-InterNIC
Topic: Human resources development
What is human resources
Work ethic and practices
Staff development
Future use of Internet as a tool for corporation.
Tapping onto Lao global resource.
'Face to Face' project, a brainstorming forum.
D. Seminar survey questionnaire (in Lao and English)
Personal detail (optional)
Name: Position:
Organisation: Phone: Fax: Email:
Local office: Government office: Education institute: Foreign office:
System usage
Do you have access to a computer ?: PC: MAC: Other:
How many?:
Do you have your own computer?:
What do you use the computers for?: Wordprocessor Fax Email Programming Database Other
What operating system do you use?: DOS MSWindows Mac Unix Other
System maintenance
How is your system being maintained?: Service department Supplier Other
Number of direct support staff:
Physical link
Do you have a direct dial IDD telephone line?
What is your average monthly telephone bill ?
Telephone: Local Overseas Fax: Local Overseas Email Other (eg. Telex)
General questions
If you currently have an Internet connection
Who is your current service provider?
What charging rate per kilobyte are you accustomed to US$?
If you do not yet have Internet connection
Would you be interested for immediate connection to the Internet?
If it is deferred, how long?
Would you be interested in setting up a redistribution hub?
What mail service delivery would you prefer: Real time
1/2-1hr 1-2hrs 2-4hrs 1/2days 1-2 days 2-4 days
Payment
Would you be interested to pay in advance for a guaranteed service at a discounted rate ?:
Thankyou, for your valued participation in our survey. We aim to deliver to you a quality service that can be of some assistance to your operation.
E. Application for Laos IP
#[NETWORK TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
netname: LANIC Laos Network Information Center
descr: Science Technology and Environment National Organisation (STENO)
descr: Department of Industrial Property
descr: P.O Box 2279, Vientiane LAOS P.D.R
country: Laos
admin-c: Ngheune
admin-c: Vorasone Dengkayaphichit
tech-c: Tharongsinh Kanlagna
tech-c: Anousak Souphavanh
tech-c: Craig Rice
tech-c: Houmphanh Thongvilu
changed: asouphavanh@vnet.ibm.com
source: APNIC
#[PERSON TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
person: Ngheune
address: Sciences, Technology and Environment National Organization
address: Department of Industrial Property
address: P.O Box 2279, Vientiane, LAOS P.D.R
phone: +856 21 213470
fax-no: +856 21 213472
e-mail:
nic-hdl:
changed:
source: APNIC
#[PERSON TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
person: Vorasone Dengkayaphichit
address: National Polytechnic Institute
address: Computer Science Division
address: Sokpaluang
address: Vientiane, LAOS
phone: +856 21 312072 EXt 132
phone: +856 21 314382
fax-no:
e-mail: vorasone@npi.laos.permanent.org
nic-hdl:
changed:
source: APNIC
#[PERSON TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
person: Tharongsinh Kanlagna
address: National Polytechnic Institute
address: Computer Science Division
address: Sokpaluang
address: Vientiane, LAOS
phone: +856 21 312072 EXt 132
fax-no:
e-mail: sino@npi.laos.permanent.org
nic-hdl:
changed:
source: APNIC
#[PERSON TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
person: Anousak Souphavanh
address: 1630 Long Pond Rd
address: Rochester, NY 14626
address: USA
phone: 716-723-4985
fax-no:
e-mail: asouphavanh@VNET.IBM.COM
e-mail: aas1241@cs.rit.edu.us
nic-hdl:
changed:
source: APNIC
#[PERSON TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
person: Craig Rice
address: St. Olaf College
address: 1510 St. Olaf Ave
address: Northfield, MN 555057-1097 USA
phone: 507-646-3631
fax-no: 507-646-3099
e-mail: cdr@stolaf.edu
nic-hdl: cr127
changed:
source: APNIC
#[PERSON TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
person: Houmphanh Thongvilu
address: Computer Centre, Monash University
address: Wellington Rd, Clayton
address: Victoria, 3168 AUSTRALIA
phone: +61 3 905 47479, +41 2030154
fax-no: +61 3 905 4746
e-mail: pan@cc.monash.edu.au
nic-hdl:
changed:
source: APNIC
Part B - Technical Details
#[TECHNICAL TEMPLATE V:2.0]#
host-bits: 8
connect: yes
classless: yes
single-home: yes
service-provider:
service-provider:
service-provider:
sub-registry: no
network-plan: x.x.x.0 255.255.255.0 5 24 128
country-net: JP AU KR ID US UK RU CA ME BR NZ FR BE DE NO FI
country-net: SG TW TH MN TO TH IT MA IN HK CN AT AG
old-network:
old-network:
source: APNIC
#[TEMPLATES END]#
Part C - Comments
This application is done by Laonet, an external working party that is
pursuing
Laos Internet connectivity, on behalf of Lao STENO, from a permission
granted
by Laos Director of Cabinet, Pho Muangnalad letter dated March 10 1995
ref. no. 272/STENO.
Part D - Proxy Details
Complete this portion only if you are submitting this application on
behalf of someone else.
This application is made by:
name: Anousak Souphavanh
organisation: member of Laonet working group.
country: USA
phone: 716-723-4985
fax-no:
e-mail: asouphavanh@vnet.ibm.com
e-mail: aas1241@cs.rit.edu.us
On behalf of the following organisation:
person: Ngheune
address: Sciences, Technology and Environment National Organization
address: Department of Industrial Property
address: P.O Box 2279, Vientiane, LAOS P.D.R
phone: +856 21 213470
fax-no: +856 21 213472
e-mail: