Overseas Humanitarian Projects

SAINET Project (Laos)

4S extended its community work overseas in 2005. Known as the SAINET Project, it was 4S’ first overseas undertaking involved 26 volunteers from 4S, Katong Sai Centre, Telok Blangah Sai Centre, Singapore Indian Development Association and Sri Sathya Sai Society, Singapore. The Singapore team was joined by 15 Thai and 45 Lao Sai devotees.

The SAINET Project involved the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets and rice to the poor living in malaria-afflicted mountainous areas of Xieng Khouang. The insecticide-treated mosquito nets were useful in preventing and reducing the incidence of malaria. Laos was identified as one of the countries in the region that would benefit from the SAINET project as malaria was the leading cause of mortality there. The SAINET Project was given the approval by the Laos Ministry of Health in December 2005.

The project, which cost S$100,000.00, was funded by donations from members of the various Sai Centres in Singapore and 4S' supporters. In total, 5,000 mosquito nets and 20 tonnes of rice were distributed to 10,000 villagers in 20 villages on 11 and 12 Mar 06.