Vietnam Insider

Mới đây, Đại hội thành lập Liên minh Giáo dục Trí tuệ Nhân tạo Thanh thiếu niên các nước BRICS đã được tổ chức tại thủ đô Bắc Kinh, Trung Quốc. Với tư cách là doanh nghiệp dẫn đầu trong lĩnh vực giáo dục trí tuệ nhân tạo của Trung Quốc, YBC được Liên minh Quốc tế các Dự án Chiến lược BRICS đặc biệt mời tham gia với tư cách là một trong các đơn vị sáng lập, đồng thời đảm nhiệm vai trò đơn vị luân phiên đầu tiên, phụ trách điều phối hoạt động thường nhật và thúc đẩy triển khai các dự án của liên minh. Việc bổ nhiệm này đánh dấu thực tiễn giáo dục AI dành cho thanh thiếu niên của Trung Quốc đã nhận được sự công nhận ở cấp độ quốc tế.

Đại diện chính phủ, các học giả hàng đầu và lãnh đạo ngành đến từ các nước BRICS như Brazil, Nga, Ấn Độ, Trung Quốc và Nam Phi đã cùng chứng kiến lễ ra mắt của liên minh. Việc thành lập liên minh nhằm triển khai sáng kiến của các nhà lãnh đạo BRICS về mở rộng hợp tác giáo dục, lấy giáo dục AI làm điểm khởi đầu để thúc đẩy hợp tác sâu rộng trong lĩnh vực giáo dục công nghệ mới nổi. Các đại biểu tham dự cho rằng việc tăng cường hợp tác giáo dục AI cho thanh thiếu niên có ý nghĩa quan trọng đối với việc đào tạo nguồn nhân lực khoa học – công nghệ trong tương lai và thu hẹp khoảng cách số.

YBC có thể đảm nhiệm trọng trách này nhờ quá trình đầu tư và phát triển lâu dài trong lĩnh vực giáo dục AI dành cho thanh thiếu niên. Kể từ khi thành lập năm 2017, YBC đã đào tạo tích lũy hơn 8 triệu học viên tại Trung Quốc; hoạt động trong hệ thống trường học đã phủ khắp 30 đơn vị hành chính cấp tỉnh và hơn 4.500 trường học trên toàn quốc. Công ty đã tự nghiên cứu và phát triển nền tảng sáng tạo lập trình sở hữu 39 quyền sở hữu trí tuệ độc lập, đồng thời ra mắt mô hình ngôn ngữ lớn chuyên biệt cho lĩnh vực giáo dục với quy mô 70 tỷ tham số, cung cấp nền tảng công nghệ hỗ trợ cho hoạt động giảng dạy. “Hệ thống giáo dục 4C” do YBC tiên phong xây dựng là biểu hiện quan trọng cho năng lực cạnh tranh cốt lõi của doanh nghiệp. Hệ thống này tập trung bồi dưỡng cho thanh thiếu niên năng lực nhận thức nền tảng, năng lực tư duy tổng hợp, năng lực tự hiệu quả và năng lực tích hợp liên ngành, qua đó xây dựng một lộ trình giáo dục hoàn chỉnh từ phát triển nhận thức đến hình thành năng lực. Triết lý đổi mới này không chỉ được công nhận rộng rãi tại Trung Quốc mà các sản phẩm khóa học của doanh nghiệp còn được lựa chọn vào danh mục điển hình của chương trình “Trí tuệ nhân tạo vì trẻ em” của Quỹ Nhi đồng Liên Hợp Quốc. Trong nhiều năm qua, YBC liên tục tham gia các hoạt động giao lưu giáo dục quốc tế, chia sẻ thành quả thực tiễn trong lĩnh vực giáo dục AI cho thanh thiếu niên tại nhiều diễn đàn quốc tế, qua đó tích lũy kinh nghiệm phong phú về hợp tác quốc tế.

Tại lễ thành lập, nhà sáng lập YBC và Chủ tịch luân phiên đầu tiên Lý Dực đã trình bày sứ mệnh cốt lõi của liên minh: “Lấy công nghệ làm cầu nối, thúc đẩy giao lưu liên văn hóa giữa thanh thiếu niên các nước BRICS, xây dựng hệ sinh thái giáo dục phát triển nhận thức cho thanh thiếu niên trong kỷ nguyên trí tuệ nhân tạo, đồng thời bồi dưỡng những nhà sáng tạo tương lai hướng tới thời đại AI.” Để thực hiện sứ mệnh này, ông đã công bố một loạt kế hoạch hành động: thành lập “Trung tâm Tương lai Giáo dục AI các nước BRICS” tại Bắc Kinh, làm cơ sở thường trực cho các hoạt động giao lưu và thảo luận giữa các quốc gia; sáng lập “Diễn đàn Quốc tế Giáo dục AI Thanh thiếu niên các nước BRICS”, xây dựng một nền tảng đối thoại định kỳ cấp cao; khởi động “Kế hoạch quyên tặng một triệu giờ học” dành cho các nước BRICS nhằm hỗ trợ phổ cập giáo dục AI, Cùng xây dựng “Hệ thống giáo dục AI các nước BRICS” phù hợp với điều kiện quốc gia khác nhau, đồng thời tìm kiếm và phát triển các mô hình giáo dục có thể nhân rộng.

Để bảo đảm hoạt động hợp tác xuyên quốc gia được vận hành hiệu quả, Ban Thư ký của liên minh sẽ thường trực tại trụ sở YBC ở Bắc Kinh, phụ trách công tác vận hành thường nhật và triển khai các dự án. Đồng thời, một ủy ban gồm đại diện của các quốc gia thành viên sẽ được thành lập nhằm hình thành mạng lưới hợp tác quốc tế mang tính thường xuyên. Cơ chế này được thiết kế với sự cân nhắc đầy đủ đến bối cảnh văn hóa đa dạng của các nước BRICS, hướng tới việc thực hiện chia sẻ nguồn lực trên cơ sở tôn trọng điều kiện và đặc thù của từng quốc gia.

 

Chủ tịch Liên minh Quốc tế các Dự án Chiến lược BRICS MIKHAIL BORISOV đã đánh giá cao ý nghĩa chiến lược của việc thành lập liên minh, coi đây là “một biện pháp chiến lược nhằm định hình tương lai chung”. Ông nhấn mạnh rằng liên minh sẽ tích hợp các nguồn lực giáo dục toàn cầu, thông qua các hình thức như cuộc thi, trại hè và đào tạo giáo viên để bồi dưỡng nguồn nhân lực dự bị cho các nước BRICS. Ông bày tỏ sự tin tưởng vào năng lực của YBC và kỳ vọng liên minh sẽ nhanh chóng khởi động các dự án hợp tác mang tính thực chất. Việc thành lập liên minh là một thực tiễn quan trọng trong quá trình xây dựng cơ chế hợp tác giáo dục giữa các nước BRICS, đồng thời cũng là sự kiện mang tính biểu tượng đánh dấu hệ thống giáo dục AI của Trung Quốc vươn ra quốc tế. Với tư cách là đơn vị khởi xướng, YBC đã đưa các ý tưởng đổi mới như “Hệ thống giáo dục 4C” vào hợp tác quốc tế, cung cấp “giải pháp Trung Quốc” cho các nước BRICS. YBC không chỉ là nhà cung cấp nguồn lực giáo dục mà còn là động lực thúc đẩy xây dựng hệ thống giáo dục AI và là cầu nối cho hợp tác quốc tế.

Cùng với việc liên minh chính thức khởi động, YBC sẽ hợp tác với các đối tác từ các nước BRICS, triển khai hợp tác thực chất trên nhiều phương diện, từ đồng xây dựng chương trình học đến đào tạo giáo viên, từ trao đổi học thuật đến giao lưu giữa thanh thiếu niên. Trong tương lai, liên minh còn dự kiến mở rộng và phổ biến các thành quả tới nhiều khu vực rộng lớn hơn, thúc đẩy hình thành cục diện mới của giáo dục AI toàn cầu theo hướng cởi mở và bao trùm hơn.. Với vai trò đơn vị luân phiên đầu tiên, YBC sẽ phát huy tối đa lợi thế chuyên môn, dựa trên nền tảng BRICS để thúc đẩy phát triển năng lực AI cho thanh thiếu niên trên toàn cầu, qua đó đóng góp vào việc bồi dưỡng các nhà đổi mới sáng tạo trong tương lai.

Vietnam’s finance authorities are proposing temporary zero import tariffs on several fuel products, a move aimed at protecting domestic supply and prices as geopolitical tensions disrupt global energy markets.

According to a draft decree submitted by the Ministry of Finance (Vietnam), the plan would reduce the most-favored-nation (MFN) import tariff to 0% on gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and several petrochemical inputs.

Officials say the policy is designed to ensure stable fuel supply and strengthen national energy security during a period of volatile global oil prices.

Global Conflict Driving Market Uncertainty

The ministry cited growing instability in global energy markets, particularly due to escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have affected oil production, logistics, and international supply chains.

Such disruptions have already led to sharp price swings in global oil markets, with knock-on effects for Vietnam’s domestic fuel supply.

Although Vietnam imports a large share of refined fuel from ASEAN countries and South Korea under free trade agreements with 0% tariffs, officials warn that supply from those sources could tighten if the geopolitical situation worsens.

Maintaining existing tariff barriers for imports from other markets could therefore limit Vietnam’s ability to secure alternative fuel supplies.

Tariffs on Key Fuel Products Could Drop to Zero

Under the proposal, several import duties would be temporarily cut:

Gasoline and blending components

• Unleaded gasoline: 10% → 0%

• Naphtha and reformate: 10% → 0%

Refined fuel products

• Diesel: 7% → 0%

• Fuel oil: 7% → 0%

• Jet fuel: 7% → 0%

• Kerosene: 7% → 0%

Petrochemical feedstocks

• Xylene, condensate, and p-xylene: 3% → 0%

• Other cyclic hydrocarbons: 2% → 0%

If approved, the measure would remain in effect until April 30, 2026.

Fiscal Impact on Government Revenue

The Ministry of Finance estimates that applying the new tariff rates based on 2025 import volumes would reduce state budget revenue by approximately:

• VND1.02 trillion

• Equivalent to about US$38.9 million

Officials argue that the fiscal cost is justified if the policy helps stabilize fuel supply and prevent larger economic disruptions.

Fuel Prices Already Climbing

The proposal comes as Vietnam experiences significant increases in retail fuel prices.

Recent adjustments set the national price caps at:

• E5 RON92 gasoline: VND25,226 per liter

• RON95-III gasoline: VND27,047 per liter

• Diesel: up to VND30,239 per liter

• Kerosene: up to VND35,091 per liter

Some products have risen by VND3,700–VND8,400 per liter in the latest price revision.

A Strategic Move to Protect Energy Security

Vietnam relies heavily on imported refined fuel to meet domestic demand, even as it operates large refineries such as Dung Quat Oil Refinery and Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical Complex.

By removing tariffs temporarily, policymakers hope to give energy importers greater flexibility to source fuel globally, helping shield the domestic economy from supply shocks.

The draft decree is currently under review before a final decision is made.

A video showing a foreign man kicking a small pet dog outside a spa in Da Nang has triggered widespread anger online, after the animal was reportedly left with three broken ribs.

The incident occurred on March 7 at a spa on An Thuong 3 Street, a popular area known for its concentration of hotels, cafés, and businesses catering to international visitors.

Security camera footage from the shop shows the man suddenly walking toward the entrance and delivering a powerful kick to the small dog before calmly stepping outside.

Dog Suffered Serious Injuries

The spa owner told local media that the dog—a Pomeranian the family has raised for years—was lying quietly near the doorway when the attack occurred.

Because no staff were present at the time, the incident went unnoticed for several minutes.

When the owner’s wife returned about 15 minutes later, she found the dog crying in pain and immediately rushed it to a veterinary clinic.

X-rays later confirmed three broken ribs.

Due to the dog’s small size, veterinarians said it could not be placed in a cast and must heal naturally while receiving pain medication and close care.

Since the incident, the owner said the dog has had difficulty moving and appears frightened.

Security Footage Circulates Widely Online

The video, captured by the spa’s surveillance camera, has spread rapidly across Vietnamese social media and expatriate groups.

Footage shows:

• Two foreign men arriving at the spa with suitcases

• One sitting inside scrolling on his phone

• The other suddenly approaching the entrance and kicking the dog

The second man appears to remain seated and does not react.

After the kick, the attacker calmly walks outside and stands by the roadside.

Suspects Believed to Be Tourists

According to the spa owner, nearby residents reported that the two men spoke Chinese, leading the family to believe they were foreign tourists.

Authorities have not yet publicly identified the individuals.

The incident has drawn strong criticism online from both Vietnamese users and foreign residents.

One expatriate living in Da Nang shared the footage in a community Facebook group, calling the incident “a shocking case of animal cruelty.”

Possible Legal Consequences

Under Vietnam’s animal husbandry violation regulations introduced in 2021, acts of cruelty toward domesticated animals may result in administrative penalties.

Specifically:

• Beating or torturing domestic animals such as dogs or cats can result in fines ranging from VND1 million to VND3 million (about $40–$114).

While the penalties are relatively small, the incident has sparked renewed discussion about animal protection laws and enforcement in Vietnam.

Growing Sensitivity Toward Animal Welfare

Pets have become increasingly common companions in Vietnam’s cities, particularly among younger families and expatriate communities.

As a result, incidents involving harm to animals often provoke strong public reaction online, with many calling for stricter enforcement and tougher penalties.

For the spa owner in Da Nang, however, the priority now is simply helping the dog recover.

“We’ve had the dog for many years,” he said. “It’s like a member of our family.” 🐾

Authorities in southern Vietnam are investigating after 24 kilograms of suspected narcotics were discovered inside a plastic bag that drifted onto a beach along the country’s central coastline.

The suspicious packages were found on Ke Ga Beach, where a local resident stumbled upon the bag while collecting recyclable materials along the shore.

Police have seized the items and launched an investigation to determine their origin and possible links to regional drug trafficking networks.

Discovery by Local Scrap Collector

The discovery occurred on the afternoon of March 6, when a man searching for plastic waste along the beach noticed a large nylon bag floating near the shoreline.

After opening the bag, he found multiple tightly wrapped rectangular packages inside.

The packages contained white crystalline substances believed to be narcotics.

Some of the wrapping had already been damaged by seawater, exposing the material inside.

Recognizing the suspicious nature of the find, the man quickly reported it to local authorities.

24 Packages Weighing Around 24kg

Initial inspection revealed:

• 24 rectangular packages

• Each weighing approximately 1 kilogram

• Total weight of roughly 24 kilograms

Foreign-language markings were visible on parts of the packaging, although many had faded after exposure to seawater.

Police officers arrived shortly afterward to secure and seal the packages for forensic testing.

The investigation is now being led by Lam Dong Provincial Police, working together with local authorities.

Part of a Growing Pattern Along Vietnam’s Coast

Authorities note that similar discoveries have occurred along Vietnam’s central coastline in recent years.

Suspected drug packages have previously been found washed ashore in provinces including:

• Quang Ngai

• Thua Thien Hue

• Quang Tri

Experts believe many of these packages may originate from drug trafficking operations at sea, where shipments are sometimes lost, abandoned, or deliberately dumped during law enforcement pursuits.

Authorities are continuing forensic testing to confirm whether the seized substance is an illegal narcotic and to trace its potential source and trafficking route.

For thousands of Vietnamese laborers working across the Middle East, daily life has become a tense balancing act between continuing their jobs and watching a regional conflict unfold nearby.

Although many worksites remain outside active strike zones, workers say they are living with constant uncertainty—hearing military aircraft overhead, following safety advisories, and preparing for the possibility of sudden evacuation.

Around 10,000 Vietnamese workers are currently employed across the region, including in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain, according to labor agencies.

Waiting for the Day to Go Home

One of them is Pham Trong, a 31-year-old worker from Nghe An Province who has spent the past two years at a petrochemical refinery on the Persian Gulf coast of Saudi Arabia.

His contract ends on March 23, and he has been counting down the days until he returns home.

Trong had already planned gifts for his family: saffron for his wife, dates for his children, and local specialties for relatives.

But those plans suddenly became uncertain when the latest escalation of tensions in the Middle East began at the end of February.

Missile strikes and military retaliation across the region have forced workers like Trong to closely monitor the situation while continuing to work.

Working Near Potential Targets

The refinery where Trong works lies outside the immediate strike zones but is only a few hours from military installations, which could become potential targets.

From the worksite, he says there are no explosions or visible missile trails.

Still, the uncertainty weighs heavily.

“Missiles move fast. You never know what could happen,” he said.

For safety, employers have tightened security and advised workers to avoid city centers and military facilities—areas more likely to be targeted.

Weekend trips to nearby towns, once a rare chance for workers to relax and shop, have been completely suspended.

Life Reduced to Two Locations

Another Vietnamese worker, Dang Huy Diep, a construction supervisor at a petrochemical project in the industrial city of Jubail, says life has become extremely restricted.

Workers now move between only two places:

• the construction site

• the company dormitory

Military aircraft have been flying overhead more frequently in recent days, which Diep believes may be patrol flights.

“Life still continues, but the atmosphere feels very different,” he said.

Despite the tension, most workers have chosen to remain.

“Everyone is still working normally. No one is thinking about leaving yet,” he added.

Thousands of Workers Affected

Labor export companies estimate nearly 6,000 Vietnamese workers are currently employed in Saudi Arabia alone, many in oil and petrochemical facilities along the Persian Gulf.

These jobs typically offer salaries of 50–60 million VND per month ($2,000–$2,400) for skilled engineers and technicians under two-year contracts.

However, the escalation has already disrupted recruitment.

Vietnam has temporarily suspended sending workers to the Middle East since March 1 until the security situation stabilizes.

Hundreds of workers who were preparing to depart have had to cancel flights or postpone travel.

Emergency Plans in Place

Labor agencies say they are closely monitoring the safety of workers through daily communication channels and internal reporting systems.

Employers in the region have also pledged to assist with evacuation if the conflict spreads.

For now, many workers remain in place—continuing their jobs while watching events unfold.

“War hasn’t reached us yet,” Diep said.
“If it does, we’ll deal with it then.”

Until then, thousands of Vietnamese laborers across the Gulf are living and working just beyond the edge of the conflict.

A woman has died following a multi-vehicle crash involving a drunk driver in Hanoi, authorities confirmed, after a chain-reaction collision damaged multiple cars and motorbikes in one of the city’s busy residential areas.

The accident occurred on the evening of March 6 on Nguyen Chanh Street, when a car lost control and slammed into a line of vehicles.

Emergency responders rushed victims to hospital, but one woman later died from severe injuries.

Fatal Injuries Confirmed by Hospital

According to doctors at Hospital 19-8, the victim—believed to be around 50 years old—suffered severe traumatic brain injury and internal abdominal trauma.

She died before medical treatment could stabilize her condition.

Two other people injured in the crash were also taken to the hospital for emergency care.

Chain Collision Involving 10 Vehicles

Police said the accident happened around 6:50 p.m. when a 66-year-old driver identified as Nguyen Van Sau was driving toward Tran Duy Hung Street.

Near the Nam Trung Yen residential complex, the driver lost control of his vehicle.

Investigators say the car then crashed into six cars and four motorbikes, triggering a chain collision that left multiple vehicles damaged.

Alcohol Detected in Driver’s Breath Test

Authorities from Hanoi Police Department conducted a breathalyzer test on the driver after the crash.

The result showed 0.264 milligrams of alcohol per liter of breath, confirming the driver had been drinking before operating the vehicle.

Police have begun a formal investigation into the case, including a forensic examination of the crash scene.

Ongoing Crackdown on Drunk Driving

Vietnam has tightened enforcement against drunk driving in recent years, introducing strict penalties including heavy fines, license suspension, and vehicle seizure.

Despite these measures, alcohol-related traffic accidents remain a major public safety concern, particularly in large cities where dense traffic can turn a single mistake into a multi-vehicle disaster.

Vietnamese travelers across the Middle East and Europe are scrambling to return home as escalating tensions in the region disrupt air travel and force airlines to close or reroute major flight corridors.

From northern Iraq to European airports, Vietnamese tourists describe stressful journeys involving canceled flights, crowded border crossings, and rapidly rising ticket prices as the crisis unfolds.

For many, the situation has turned a normal holiday into a race against time.

Tour Group Forced to Evacuate Across Borders

One Vietnamese tour group found itself unexpectedly near the crisis zone while scouting a potential travel route in Erbil, northern Iraq.

According to tour operator Phi Thi Bich Ngoc, director of adventure travel company Nplus Adventure, the group suddenly learned that airspace closures caused by escalating Iran–Israel tensions had cancelled their flight home.

“We could occasionally hear distant explosions, but we didn’t know exactly where they were coming from,” she said.

The first step, she explained, was contacting the Vietnamese Embassy to report their location and confirm the group’s safety.

Authorities advised the group to leave Erbil, where U.S. military forces are present, and head toward safer areas closer to the Turkey–Iraq border.

Shortly after they departed, the area they had just left was reportedly hit by an attack.

A Risky Exit Plan

The group then executed what Ngoc described as an “exit scenario.”

They traveled to the city of Duhok, near the Turkish border, and quickly arranged:

• Online visas for Turkey

• Airline tickets from Şırnak Airport to Istanbul

• Overland transport to the border crossing

Even with preparations, the escape was far from smooth.

Large numbers of foreigners and travelers were rushing toward the same border checkpoints, causing severe congestion.

“In situations like this, every decision must be fast and calm,” Ngoc said.
“If you hesitate even a little, you could get stuck at the border.”

The group eventually crossed into Turkey safely and is now in Istanbul.

Travelers Across Europe Also Facing Flight Chaos

Other Vietnamese tourists are encountering similar challenges across Europe.

Nguyen Duc Giang, traveling on a multi-country European tour, said his group had to completely redesign their travel plan after learning that Middle Eastern flight routes were being disrupted.

Because some members’ visas were close to expiring, the group split into two:

• Travelers with more time stayed behind to monitor flights

• Those with expiring visas quickly flew to countries where they could legally remain

Meanwhile, ticket prices climbed rapidly.

“If you wait too long, prices can rise dramatically,” Giang said.

Family Spends Three Days Searching for a Flight

In another case shared on social media, a Vietnamese family spent three days trying to find a new flight home for an elderly passenger after her journey from Finland to Vietnam was abruptly canceled.

The original flight—operated by Qatar Airways with a segment flown by Finnair—was canceled when Qatar’s airspace closed.

Airlines initially proposed a complicated rerouting through Tokyo, requiring a transfer between two different airports. Because the passenger was elderly and traveling alone, the family declined.

After repeated calls to airline hotlines, the family eventually contacted Finnair directly.

Within about an hour, the airline confirmed a replacement flight routing through Seoul, allowing the traveler to return to Vietnam safely without additional fees.

Tour Companies Activate Crisis Operations

Vietnamese travel companies have also moved into emergency mode.

According to Nguyen Nguyet Van Khanh, communications director at Vietravel, several tour groups were traveling in Dubai and Egypt when the conflict escalated.

By March 4, all customers had been safely returned to Vietnam through coordinated efforts with airline partners.

“When geopolitical instability disrupts flights, information changes very quickly,” Khanh said.

Tour operators must monitor airspace updates constantly while arranging safe accommodation, coordinating with families, and securing new flight routes.

Airfares Between Vietnam and Europe Spike

The regional conflict has also shaken global airline markets.

Within days:

• Many flights between Vietnam and Europe sold out

• Economy seats disappeared on several routes

• Prices surged sharply

Some one-way tickets between Vietnam and major European cities such as Paris and Frankfurt now cost 30–35 million VND ($1,200–$1,400) or more.

Flights in the opposite direction—from Europe to Vietnam—have also jumped 20–45% in price.

When cheaper fare classes sell out, remaining tickets automatically shift to higher fare categories, pushing some one-way flights to 60–130 million VND ($2,400–$5,200).

Longer Routes Mean Higher Costs

According to Vietnam Airlines, rerouting flights around restricted airspace adds 60–90 minutes to each journey.

That detour burns 6–9 additional tons of fuel per flight, increasing costs and reducing the number of available seats.

With the Middle East serving as one of the world’s most important aviation corridors between Asia and Europe, disruptions in the region ripple across the entire global travel network.

For travelers currently abroad, the lesson is clear: when geopolitical crises hit, timing can mean the difference between getting home smoothly—or getting stuck halfway around the world.

Vietnam’s official Buddhist organization has clarified that a man known online as “Thich Nhuan Dat” is no longer a monk, stating he formally left monastic life in December 2025 before registering his marriage.

The statement was released on March 7 by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, following widespread discussion on social media about videos showing the man traveling and appearing alongside a woman.

Officials said the clarification was issued to prevent misunderstandings about Buddhist institutions and religious practice in Vietnam.

Former Monk Requested to Leave the Order

According to the Sangha’s report, the individual—identified as Tran Minh Thanh, born in 1978 in Khanh Hoa Province—previously practiced Buddhism under the monastic name Thich Nhuan Dat.

He studied at Buddhist institutions in Ninh Thuan between 1996 and 2000, after becoming a disciple of the late monk Thich Quang Thua.

However, on December 3, 2025, Thanh formally requested permission to leave monastic life.

The request was made at Quan Am Pagoda, where he presented his decision in front of several monks.

After completing the formal process of returning to civilian life, he later registered his marriage, according to the statement.

Social Media Videos Sparked Public Debate

The clarification follows a wave of viral content circulating on Facebook and TikTok, featuring videos and livestreams of Thanh traveling and appearing with a woman identified online as “Tym.”

In some videos, he was seen wearing clothing resembling Buddhist lay practitioner attire, which led many viewers to believe he was still an active monk.

This sparked debate online, with some users questioning whether a monk had violated religious rules.

Buddhist Authorities Seek to Avoid Misunderstanding

The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha said its statement was intended to clarify the timeline and prevent speculation that could harm religious institutions or individuals.

According to the organization, Thanh’s activities occurred after he had already formally left the monastic order, meaning he was no longer bound by the vows required of Buddhist monks.

Officials urged the public to avoid spreading misleading information or speculation regarding the situation.

Monastic Life and Leaving the Order in Vietnam

In Vietnam, Buddhist monks and nuns follow strict monastic rules that include celibacy and renunciation of family life.

However, individuals who choose to leave the order can formally request to return to lay life, after which they are free to marry and pursue civilian careers.

Once this process is completed, they are no longer recognized as members of the monastic community.

The Sangha emphasized that the case of Tran Minh Thanh falls into this category.

The historic town of Hoi An has once again been named Vietnam’s friendliest destination, marking its third consecutive year at the top of the ranking released by Booking.com.

The list is part of the 14th annual Traveller Review Awards, which are based on more than 370 million verified traveler reviews worldwide. The rankings highlight destinations where visitors consistently praise the warmth, hospitality, and service of local communities.

For international travelers, the results offer a snapshot of the places in Vietnam where visitors feel most welcome—not just impressed by scenery, but genuinely hosted by locals.

Why Hoi An Continues to Win Travelers’ Hearts

Hoi An has long been one of Vietnam’s most recognizable travel destinations.

The UNESCO-listed ancient town is famous for:

• Well-preserved centuries-old architecture

• Lantern-lit streets and riverside cafés

• A unique mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultural influences

But beyond its postcard beauty, travelers frequently praise the friendliness of local residents and hospitality businesses, which has helped the city maintain its top ranking.

According to Booking.com’s Vietnam country manager Branavan Aruljothi, a destination is defined not only by landscapes or heritage but also by the people who create memorable experiences for visitors.

Vietnam’s Top 10 Friendliest Destinations in 2026

The ranking reflects a diverse mix of landscapes—from mountains and rural villages to islands and coastal towns.

1. Hoi An

2. Mai Chau

3. Cu Lao Thu

4. Ninh Binh

5. Ha Giang

6. Con Dao

7. Phong Nha

8. Da Lat

9. Phu Quoc

10. Cao Bang

The list illustrates how Vietnam’s tourism appeal spans multiple travel styles—from cultural cities and eco-destinations to remote island escapes.

Vietnam’s Tourism Reputation Continues to Rise

Beyond destinations, the Traveller Review Awards also recognized over 13,000 accommodation providers across Vietnam, reflecting growing service quality within the country’s tourism industry.

Traditional hotels remain the most highly rated lodging type, followed by:

• Serviced apartments

• Homestays

• Aparthotels

• Villas

Globally, however, travelers are increasingly choosing apartments and vacation homes, reflecting a growing preference for authentic local experiences and sustainable travel.

A Tourism Brand Built on Hospitality

Vietnam has become one of Asia’s fastest-growing tourism markets, attracting visitors with its culture, landscapes, cuisine, and affordability.

But industry leaders say what often leaves the strongest impression is something less tangible: the hospitality of local communities.

From lantern-lit streets in Hoi An to mountain villages in Ha Giang, it’s the people behind the destinations that continue to shape Vietnam’s reputation as one of the most welcoming places to travel in Asia.

The city is offering free metro service from Ben Thanh to Suoi Tien and 118 bus routes on election day, March 15th, to support voters’ transportation.

According to the Public Transport Management Center (Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction), all 109 subsidized bus routes will offer free fares to passengers on the election day for the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils at all levels for the 2026-2031 term.

In addition, 9 non-subsidized routes are also free, including: 67, 109, 171, 172, 60-1, 60-3, 60-5, 60-7 and 63-1.

On the same day, passengers traveling on the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien metro line – the city’s first metro line – were also exempted from fares. This policy aims to facilitate people’s access to polling stations and encourage the use of public transportation.

Transport units are required to prepare sufficient vehicles and reserve personnel; and enhance online monitoring to ensure safe and smooth operations. Routes and schedules are updated on the MultiGo app and electronic display boards at stops.

Ho Chi Minh City currently has approximately 180 bus routes with over 2,300 vehicles. From the end of 2024, when the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien metro line becomes operational, the number of public transport passengers will increase significantly. The city has been flexibly adjusting schedules and offering free fares on certain holidays and major events.

The election on March 15th was held uniformly nationwide. Voters elected 500 representatives to the 16th National Assembly from 864 candidates on the official list.

In Ho Chi Minh City, there are 13 constituencies for the National Assembly with 64 candidates to elect 38 representatives; and 42 constituencies for the People’s Council with 208 candidates to elect 125 representatives to the 11th term of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council.

Across Vietnam this week, tens of thousands of young people are reporting for mandatory military service, marking the start of the country’s 2026 conscription cycle.

From major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to smaller provinces in the north and central regions, local authorities have held ceremonies sending new recruits off to the armed forces and the national police.

The nationwide recruitment process runs from March 4 to March 6, with different military zones conducting enlistment ceremonies on separate days.

A Key Part of Vietnam’s National Defense System

Vietnam maintains mandatory military service for men, with most recruits serving two years in the armed forces.

The annual intake supports the country’s large defense structure, which includes:

• The Vietnam People’s Army

• The Border Guard

• The Navy

• The Coast Guard

• Specialized units such as communications and special forces

In addition to the military, a portion of recruits are assigned to People’s Public Security units, which operate under the Ministry of Public Security.

Large Recruitment Numbers in Major Cities

Major urban centers contribute some of the largest numbers of recruits.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city and economic hub, is sending 9,105 young people into service this year — the highest figure nationwide.

Of these:

• 7,300 recruits will serve in the military

• 1,805 recruits will join the national police

Officials say nearly 28.5% of recruits in the city hold college or vocational degrees, reflecting a growing number of educated young people entering service.

Hanoi Sends Over 4,700 Recruits

The capital Hanoi is sending 4,721 recruits into service in 2026.

Notably:

• Nearly 60% volunteered for service

• Around 30% have university or college education

• More than 160 recruits are Communist Party members

Local officials emphasized discipline, training, and the long-standing tradition of the “Bo Doi Cu Ho”—a term referring to soldiers who follow the legacy of Ho Chi Minh-era revolutionary troops.

Provinces Also Mobilize Thousands

Other provinces are also sending large numbers of recruits.

Examples include:

• Ninh Binh Province: more than 6,000 recruits

• Hung Yen Province: about 5,300 recruits

• Cao Bang Province: more than 1,000 recruits

Many provinces reported strong recruitment quality, with a majority of recruits classified in top physical health categories.

Who Must Serve?

Under Vietnam’s current Law on Military Service:

• Men aged 18–25 are required to serve

• Those who defer service for university studies may be called up until age 27

• Women may volunteer if they possess specialized skills required by the military

Standard service lasts 24 months, though the Ministry of National Defense may extend it by up to six additional months during special circumstances.

Training, Benefits, and Post-Service Support

During their service, recruits undergo:

• Military and tactical training

• Political education

• Disaster response and rescue training

• Missions related to national defense and territorial protection

They also receive:

• Military allowances

• Housing, uniforms, and meals

• Healthcare and insurance coverage

After completing service, veterans may receive vocational training support, job placement assistance, and preferential points when applying for government jobs.

A Tradition Blending Service and Ceremony

Across Vietnam, enlistment ceremonies often carry a strong emotional element. Families, local officials, and community members gather to send off recruits with flowers, speeches, and national flags, reflecting the cultural importance placed on military service.

For many young Vietnamese, the two-year commitment remains both a civic duty and a rite of passage before returning to civilian life.