From alms bowl to RM1 mil: Penang monk wins BSN lucky draw

 

IF KARMA truly exists, then one 73-year-old monk from Penang may have just provided the strongest evidence yet.

After decades of receiving donations and helping others, fate has apparently decided it was time for a rather sizeable refund: RM1 mil. 

Many people spend their lives chasing money. One monk spent his life renouncing worldly pursuits and somehow ended up becoming a millionaire anyway. The universe clearly has a sense of humour. 

Chan Chai Siang, who hails from Butterworth and now resides in Air Itam, began saving with Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) Premium Savings Certificate in January last year.

He later emerged as the winner of the 124th Millionaire Draw, taking home RM1 mil in cash.

Netizens also have much to say about his windfall. “I think I know what he will do with the money,” said a cheeky @frankrxII refraining from revealing his cryptic comment.

“How is he supposed to spend the money? Monks are supposed to depend on people to give them alms,” added @sukomatcha. 

Another netizen said this shows that BSN is honest in its lucky draws. Prompted by his winnings, @AriffinMK suggested BSN use their assets to help the Asnaf community too. 

Check out the picture comments too:

“Most of the money I saved came from alms, ang pao gifts and donations received from members of the public,” said Chan after receiving the mock cheque at BSN’s Penang Main Branch. 

“I also used part of the money to help those in need,” he added.

Chai Siang, who has been a monk since 1985 and previously worked in several factories in Singapore and Penang, said he has yet to make any specific plans for the prize money.

For the time being, he intends to keep it in the bank for the future while continuing to assist those in need. —  Focus Malaysia