Penang Monk Bags BSN’s RM1 Million Prize, Pledges Community Support

By Lara Kramer  •  24 Jun 2026 in News

Thirsty for JUICE content? Quench your cravings on our Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp

A 73-year-old monk from Penang has become the latest millionaire under Bank Simpanan Nasional’s (BSN) Sijil Simpanan Premium (SSP) programme, taking home RM1 million and pledging to use the funds to support fellow monks and improve his temple.

Chan Chai Siang, who has dedicated the last three decades of his life to the monastic path, said he intends to carefully consider how best to utilise the prize money. Among his priorities are assisting monks facing medical challenges and gradually expanding the temple where he serves in Air Itam.

Speaking at BSN’s Penang main branch on Monday, Chan reflected on the value of money, saying its true worth lies in how it is used to benefit both oneself and others.

According to Chan, Buddhist monks in Malaysia often receive less institutional support compared to those in countries such as Thailand. As a result, mutual assistance within the monastic community is especially important.

He noted that his temple has previously helped monks seeking treatment for illnesses, including those who travel to Penang for medical care. The unexpected windfall, he said, will allow the temple to continue and strengthen those efforts.

When asked if he viewed the win as a blessing from the Buddha, Chan explained that he saw it instead as a result of karma and circumstances shaped by past actions.

More importantly, he stressed that wealth should be managed responsibly and used for meaningful purposes.

Born in Butterworth, Chan worked in factories in both Singapore and Penang before becoming a monk in his 40s. Prior to entering religious life, he served in supervisory roles and never imagined he would one day become a millionaire.

Laughing, he admitted he had never won a lucky draw before, adding that opportunities for such prizes are not exactly common in monastic life.

Chan also shared some practical financial advice, encouraging people to save for difficult times and avoid relying entirely on others for support.

“Prepare for rainy days,” he said, noting that self-reliance remains important as help may not always be available when it is needed most.

A friend later advised him against keeping large sums of cash at the temple, citing potential security concerns.

Chan is the fifth BSN SSP millionaire crowned in 2026. The winning draw was held on 6 June as part of the bank’s monthly programme, which awards one RM1 million prize winner each month. To qualify, participants must maintain a minimum balance of RM3,000 in their SSP account for at least 60 days.

BSN Penang state director Mohd Hairul Izam Abu Bakar and strategic communications head Aizurra Mellissa were also present during the announcement.

For more news, click here.

Follow JUICE on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.