Malaysian monk Chan Chai Siang has won RM1 million, or about S$311,947, through Bank Simpanan Nasional’s lucky draw campaign.
The 73-year-old Buddhist monk, who lives in a hermitage in Penang, said he initially thought the call was a scam. He only believed the prize was real after bank representatives met him in person.
Chan, originally from Butterworth, became the 124th individual to win the grand prize from BSN Sijil Simpanan Premium’s Millionaire Draw. He was also the second winner from Penang in 2026.
The monk said he had saved between RM2,000 and RM2,500 over the past two years through small, gradual deposits, mostly from donations he received from the public.
He said he had no immediate plans for the prize money but intended to use part of it to help people in need, including those who are sick.
Chan described the win as karma rather than divine intervention and said he had never made vows or special prayers for financial gain.
Before entering monastic life in his 40s, Chan worked as a factory supervisor in Penang and Singapore.
Malaysian monk wins RM1 million in bank lucky draw, says he will use part of the prize to help the sick and needy.
Chan said charitable giving is an important part of his religious practice and that money should be managed responsibly. He keeps his savings in a bank for security and uses them for daily expenses and donations.
The prize was formally presented to him at the BSN Penang Main Branch in Jalan Macalister.
Follow Dharmic News for more such updates.
