In appreciation of the work done by Master Xi Pashao Thera, the head of Buddhist Tooth Relic Temple and Museum as well as the Golden Pagoda in Singapore, for many years to Buddhism and Sri Lanka, a felicitation ceremony will be held on the guidance of Ven. Dr. Galaboda Gnanissara Thera, Chief Prelate of the Colombo Gangaramaya Vihara, with the participation of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at 4:00 PM, the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall.
In a densely populated city like the heart of Singapore, the Temple of Buddha’s Tooth Temple and Museum, a haven for deep religious learning and a rich history, is dedicated to Master Shi, a revered monk who dedicated his life’s journey to seeking enlightenment, spreading compassion and improving society. It is the home of the Pashaos.
Master Xi Pashao, who embarks on his life’s journey with the aim of serving humanity through self-realization, is known as an embodiment of enlightenment, compassion and kindness. His Holiness Master Xi Pashao was born on June 22, 1959 in Singapore, of Chinese origin. His lay name is Lai Meng Wa. Lai Meng Wa’s ancestors trace their roots back to the Mei region of China’s Canton province, where his parents passed away when he was a child, but foster parents who provided him with love and guidance were a great blessing.
Master Xi Pashao’s spiritual journey begins with his conversion to Buddhism in 1970. Guided by Venerable Shi Chang Heng, he was given the Dharma name Ju Huang, symbolizing his commitment to attaining enlightenment and developing wisdom. Nine years later, on August 10, 1979, he entered the monastic realm at the Long Shan Si Monastery in Singapore under the patronage of Shi Mao Hua.
From then on, he adopted the Dharma name Xing Guan, meaning “Heart of Light,” and the Pashao name, meaning “Lamp of Dharma.” On December 8, 1979, under the guidance of Shi Bai Sheng, His Holiness Shi Pashao agreed to follow the monastic precepts at Biyan Si Monastery in Xin Shu Province, Taiwan.
Master Xi Pashao’s leadership and management skills have left an indelible mark on many Buddhist organizations, educational institutions and charities. In 1981, he assumed the role of Superintendent of Shi Gui Fo Si Monastery, a position he held until 1992. Master Xi Pashao founded the Golden Pagoda Buddhist Temple in 1988 and chaired its leadership and management committee because of his vision to establish a haven for spiritual seekers.
Educating students
His philanthropic efforts were taken beyond the temple by establishing the Metta Welfare Society in 1994. In 2001, Master Xi Pashao founded the Metta School, an institution dedicated to nurturing and educating students with special needs. In 2003, Master Xi Pashao Thero established the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Singapore, one of the most important milestones in his life. Master Xi Pashao’s philanthropy extends beyond Singapore.
Master Xi Pashao’s exceptional efforts have continuously earned him recognition and praise from respected individuals and organizations around the world. In 1992, the Supreme Council of Sri Lanka Maha Sangha gave him the title of “Sasana Keerthi Sri Sivali”. In 1996, King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand recognized Master Xi Pashao’s spiritual fame and bestowed upon him the title of Chokun Phra Withetamanusit.
In 1997, the Royal Princess of Thailand awarded him the prestigious Dharma Chakra Gold Award in further appreciation of Master Shi Pashao’s commitment to preaching the Dharma, and in 2000, the State Peace and Development Council of Myanmar awarded Master Shi Pashao the honorary title of Maha Saddhammajotidhaja. In 2004, the President of the Republic of Singapore, S. R. Nathan awarded Master Xi Pashao the Public Service Medal Award for outstanding public service. In 2010, the State Peace and Development Council of the State of Myanmar conferred the title of Aggamaha Saddhamma Jothikadhaja on Master Shi Pashao.
In 2011, His Holiness Master Xi Pashao’s exceptional dedication to public service and community welfare was recognized by the President of the Republic of Singapore, Dr. Tony Tan Keng Yam, who awarded him the Public Service Star Award.
In 2013 His Majesty the King of Thailand also appreciated his great dedication, and in December 2014, the Supreme Council of Sri Lanka’s Asgiri Chapter further recognizing his role in the propagation of the Dharma and as a respected spiritual leader, honored Master Xi Pashao with a distinguished title.
Contributing to Sri Lankan religious affairs, he has provided useful support to the Sangha in 1992 and 1994 and supported the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. In 2004, he generously donated US$ 200,000 to aid the victims of the Tsunami and US$ 100,000 to aid the victims of the floods in Sri Lanka in 2010. He donated S$ 125,000 for the Na Sevana Project in Sri Lanka in June 2014, and has given significant support to the Sri Jinaratna Vocational Training School in February 2021 by donating hand tools. Beyond Sri Lanka, Master Xi Pashao Thera is also dedicated to charity work in Myanmar and Thailand.
Continuing his mission to create positive change and uplift Buddhism, Master Xi Pashao Thero has initiated two important projects in Singapore. The first project is the new Maitrisha School campus comprising Maitrisha School and Maitriwa Building. The effort, with an estimated cost of S$80 million, aims to provide state-of-the-art educational buildings that foster the holistic development of students. The pavilion is expected to be completed by mid-2027 and construction is scheduled to begin in 2024.
The second project involves the renovation of the Singapore Chinese Buddhist Association building. The renovation project, which is scheduled to begin in 2023 and be completed in 2024, aims to revitalize the association’s headquarters by creating a space that embodies the teachings of Buddhism and fosters community participation. The estimated cost of the project is one million Singapore dollars.
Relations established
Master Xi Pashao Thera has the longest cordial and fruitful relationship with Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo under the leadership of Venerable Gnanissara Thera for almost three decades. It is one of the most beautiful bonds of the Dharma path that fulfills expectations. And because of this personal relationship, Sri Lanka also got great benefits from the relations established with countries like Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar with the patronage of Master Xi Pashao Thera and the Gangamaraya Temple. Master Xi Pashao’s life journey as a monk is exemplary.
His great dedication, relentless pursuit of knowledge and great efforts in promoting Buddhism and humane qualities have brought him great respect and admiration.
From establishing the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Singapore to leading various organizations and starting charitable projects around the world, Master Xi Pashao Thera has done great service to the global Buddhist community.
The Maha Nayakes of all Chapters, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and many others will participate in the ceremony.