MARKET-GOERS have been advised to be wary of bogus monks who have been taking advantage of the public’s generosity.
A check by the Buletin Mutiara team at the popular Cecil Street market and eatery area found several bogus monks asking for donations from the public.
They were seen asking for cash donations from one table to another.
According to a hawker, who declined to be named, there was an increase in the number of fake monks over the past few months.
“They are mostly active from noon to 2pm, especially during public holidays and weekends.
“Most people who donated to them were tourists as the locals are aware of these bogus monks,” he told Buletin Mutiara.
He hoped that the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) would put up more banners alerting the public on the matter.
Penang Petty Traders Association president Ooi Thean Huat said stern enforcement action should be taken.
“It is pointless to merely put up banners without any actions taken. The problem will persist if no action is taken,” he said.
Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi said there is no provision under the local bylaws that could act against the bogus monks.
“The public must play its part and be vigilant,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting