The late Venerable Yen Pei (1917-1996) was a learned Buddhist scholar, who was well versed in Sutra (Buddhist discourses), Vinaya (Buddhist discipline) and Abhidharma (higher doctrines of Buddhism). He was reputed as a “Master of the Tripitaka (Buddhist Canon)”. As a religious minister, he conducted Buddhist Studies classes and made the Buddhist teachings simple for the average man to understand.

He was also a social worker with great compassion and drive in serving the community of Singapore ever since he settled here in the 1950s. He was particularly concerned with the welfare of the elderly, sick and needy. He was awarded the Public Service Medal (PBM) in 1986 and the Public Service Star (BBM) in 1992.

The late Venerable Yen Pei devoted his entire life to preaching Buddhism and rendering voluntary welfare service to benefit the masses. He had completed his greatest mission in life, as well as travelled a full and meaningful journey in this world. He remains a shining, exemplary model for all of us, with his simple and upright lifestyle.