Buddhism in Southeast Asia taught and supported Theravada ideologies. The success of Theravada Buddhism in Burma under the rule of Anawrahta allowed for the later growth of Buddhism in neighboring Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. The influences of the Mon people as well as the Pagan Empire are still felt today throughout the region. Currently, the Southeast Asian countries with the highest amounts of practicing Theravada Buddhists are Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. Buddhism has long been characterized by some scholars as an other-worldly religion, that is not rooted in economic and political activity. That is in part due to
Laos–Malaysia relations the two countries were very small with the valued at only US$2.4 million but increase to US$2.7 million in 2004. While in 2009, Malaysia's exported to Laos has reached US$7.4 million and the Malaysian investment in the country has reached US$150 million. Both countries also has signed various agreements to provide for the expanding of bilateral relations such as the Bilateral Trade Agreement, Tourism Agreement. Investment Guarantee Agreement, Air Services Agreement and the Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation Agreement. In 2010, Malaysia ranks ninth in the list of largest foreign investors in Laos. By 2015, Malaysia is the second largest