Newsmakers

A 73-year-old Buddhist monk in Malaysia has won RM1 million (around Rs 2.28 crore) in a bank lucky draw, drawing attention not only for the size of the prize but also for his humble response to the windfall.

Chan Chai Siang, a monk based in Air Itam, Penang, emerged as the 124th winner of Bank Simpanan Nasional’s (BSN) Sijil Simpanan Premium Millionaire Draw. The bank announced his win at a press conference held at its Penang main branch on June 23.

Rather than describing the prize as a blessing or stroke of luck, Chan reportedly said the windfall was the result of karma and that he intended to use much of the money to help others.

According to local media reports, Chan had worked in factories in Singapore and Penang before entering monastic life in his 40s. He has now spent around 30 years as a Buddhist monk. Over the years, he gradually built up his savings through public donations and ang pow money, which he deposited into the bank’s savings-linked scheme.

Speaking after the announcement, Chan said he never imagined that the money he had saved little by little would eventually make him a millionaire. He also shared that this was the first time he had ever won a lucky draw.

When asked if he viewed the prize as a blessing from Buddha, Chan reportedly said it was more a matter of karma linked to actions from previous lives rather than something granted through prayer. He added that he had never prayed specifically for financial gain.

Chan also reflected on the purpose of wealth, saying money should be used in ways that can benefit others. He indicated that a significant portion of the RM1 million would go towards helping fellow monks and those in need.

He noted that Buddhist monks in Malaysia often do not receive the same level of support as monks in some neighbouring countries. As a result, he said, assistance within the monastic community is important, especially for those who need medical care or face financial hardship.

According to reports, Chan’s temple has previously helped monks who travelled to Penang for treatment or required support during illness. With the prize money, he said he hoped to continue and expand such efforts. Part of the amount may also be used for the temple’s development, though no final decision has been made.

Chan also advised people to save for difficult times and avoid depending entirely on others. His reaction has stood out at a time when lottery wins are often associated with lavish spending and major lifestyle changes.

Instead, the Malaysian monk has framed the prize as a responsibility rather than a personal reward. For Chan, the value of the RM1 million lies not in luxury, but in the opportunity to support others and do good.