A recent job listing offering a high salary for Buddhist nuns has sparked discussion online.
The job post, which advertised a monthly salary ranging from SGD 5,000 (approximately RM16,558) to SGD 11,000 (approximately RM36,428), sought experienced full-time nuns, drawing curiosity and debate among netizens.
Job listing details
The listing was posted on Singapore’s MyCareersFuture portal by a Buddhist society looking to hire full-time nuns with at least 10 years of experience.
The role required candidates to have at least 10 years of experience in religious duties.
The main responsibilities outlined in the listing included:
- Organizing religious training programs and workshops, including retreats and meditation sessions.
- Overseeing and managing religious programs, ensuring they align with Buddhist teachings.
- Teaching and conducting Dharma classes, providing guidance on Buddhist scriptures and practices.
- Providing mentorship and guidance to trainees and facilitators, helping them deepen their Buddhist practice.
- Developing religious education curricula for long-term educational initiatives.
- Supporting spiritual growth and community development, offering counseling and pastoral care.
Many netizens were surprised by the lucrative salary, questioning the scope of work and the reasoning behind the high pay.
Some asked why the position was specifically for nuns and not open to monks as well. Comments ranged from surprise at the earnings to curiosity about the job requirements.
Investigation into the Buddhist society
According to reports from 8world News, the job post was published on March 16 and was set to close on March 30, with 10 applicants already submitted.
A visit by the Chinese daily to the listed address in Geylang found the office locked, with no one answering the doorbell.
When contacted, the recruitment company responsible for the listing claimed there was a misunderstanding between them and the Buddhist society and the job listing has since been removed from the portal.
Response from Buddhist authorities
He explained that Buddhist monastics typically do not receive fixed salaries but rely on donations or allowances from devotees.
While aware of the Buddhist society in question, he noted that it is not an SBF member and originates from Taiwan. He also speculated that the job’s high salary requirement might be related to work permit applications rather than direct financial compensation.
