Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
August 9, 2023

In 2023, Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) and Buddha's Light Association (Singapore) once again received the People's Association Community Spirit Awards, following their previous wins in 2017, 2018, and 2019. This award recognizes the continued efforts and contributions of Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) and Buddha's Light Association (Singapore) to the community and vulnerable groups over the years.

The award ceremony was held on July 25th at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay. Mr. Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, presented the certificates. Venerable Miao Mu, the Abbess of Fo Guang Shan (Singapore), and Mr. Soh Cheng Boon, Vice President of Buddha's Light Association (Singapore), attended to receive the awards.

Venerable Miao Mu(right) and Mr. Soh Cheng Boon hold the certificate. photo／The Life News Agency

Fo Guang Shan (Singapore) and Buddha's Light Association (Singapore) have always been dedicated to community service and charitable activities, assisting vulnerable groups, and striving to promote education. For over a decade, they have been awarding scholarships to many students from financially challenged families, alleviating their financial burden.

During the award ceremony, Mr. Edwin Tong expressed gratitude to all organizations for their dedication to "taking from society and giving back to society," as they spare no effort in contributing to community service, making Singaporean society more stable and prosperous. Mr. Edwin Tong stated that through these awards, he hopes to recognize outstanding performances by organizations and encourage more units to join the ranks of community service.

This year, the organizers presented a total of 127 awards, including 100 Merit Awards and 27 Excellence Awards.