I heard that in Laos they are Buddhist through bones. Buddhism is taught to kids (first graders until they complete their elementary) Preserving culture is every one's responsibility. That's why Lao girls at all ages still wear Sinh. Thai media constantly admires Lao women and urge their people to look at Laotians as the prime example. Muslim men with beards/moustache and diapers on their stinky heads are too dirty for Lao women. Not to mention that Laotians love to eat piggy .
Lastly, it does not matter how developed Laos is or will be, their culture will very well be preserved.