Thailand
Laos: Finance Ministry Opens Hotline for Public Complaints
(KPL) The Ministry of Finance has opened a hotline ‘1519’ for the general public members to voice problems or complaints on financial matters.
The hotline number 1519 has been put in operation since April 7, 2017, according to an announcement by the ministry.
The issues raised by the public will be discussed by relevant officials on the TV programme “Finance and Development”, broadcasted via Lao Public Security Television every Friday from 20:30-21:00 and every Saturday from 07:00-07:30.
Comments and complaints will be also responded on Lao Public Security Radio at the frequency of 105.5 MHz every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 12:30 to 13:00.
In addition, the ministry’s response will be published in the weekly Finance Newspaper, Vientiane Mai daily, Pasaxon daily, Pathetlao daily and Lao Phatthana daily newspapers.
In late last year, the government launched hotline 1516 to connect with the public in a move that will enable ordinary people to provide recommendations regarding government performance.
The Prime Minister’s Office said that the hotline was established following the advice of Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith.
Observers welcomed the move, but stressed it is equally important to ensure the issues people raise are taken seriously and addressed in a timely and efficient manner.