Yes it was, I just came back home from the same region and reading, hearing and seeing about all the horror is something everyone should experience.

I do wonder though, are these investments made to help the country and its' people or is it just another way to make money off of poor and uneducated people? 

Of course the circumstances are getting better, no doubt, but still only a few truly profit not to say corruption is a big thing in Cambodia and Vietnam.

Maybe being poor and eating free coconuts can be a wonderful life.

A lot of westerners conquered the south East Asian region and their main interest is not to help these countries. Should have been better if these westerners never conquered these countries.

I think this was the case. I was not born yet at this time (born in 85) but I asked my Dad about it and he said it was in the news occasionally, but the media largely ignored it. 

I think it would be like South Sudan the past decade. People know its bad. A few activist speak up but by and large people dont care because we have no interest in the region.