Malaysian monk wins $243,000 in bank lucky draw, plans charitable use

A 73-year-old Buddhist monk in Malaysia has won RM1 million (US$243,000) through a bank's lucky draw campaign.

Chan Chai Siang, who resides at a hermitage in Ayer Itam, a suburb of George Town in Penang, initially suspected the prize announcement was a scam after receiving multiple phone calls from the bank.

He was only convinced of his windfall after representatives from Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) traveled to meet him in person, according to Bernama. Chan is the 124th grand prize winner of the bank's Millionaire Draw program, the bank announced on Tuesday.

Monk Chan Chai Siang (R) receives the RM1 million (US$243,000) from staff of the Bank Simpanan Nasional. Photo courtersy of the bank

He intends to use a portion of the funds to support people in need.

"I will use it wisely. Some will go to help people who are sick or in need," he told The Star.

Chan attributes his win to karma rather than divine blessing, adding that he has never prayed or made vows for financial gain.

Before entering the monkhood, Chan worked as a factory supervisor in Penang and Singapore. He said he has maintained a bank account of RM2,000 to RM2,500 over the past two years through deposits largely sourced from public donations, to manage everyday necessities.