For Religion or For Development??

On 11th April 2011, 2 days before Khmer New Year, I had the chance to go to Kompong Cham province to celebrate the official opening of a pagoda's dining hall (a hall where people will place the food for worshiping to their ancestor). This new pagoda's dining costs at least 70.000 USD. The money is from the combination of Katen and Bon Pka and donation from other people. Those people who play a huge role in the establishment of the dining hall was awarded with prestigious medals in front many people. One surprising thing struck into my mind when i looked at the damaged road in front of the pagoda (damaged for more than 10 years), the improper sanitation and the condition of the villagers' house. Should the money better be used for the development of the village rather than of the pagoda? It is admittedly a generous act from all of the generous people. However, the development of people's living standard is much more important and should be on top of the agenda rather than at the expense of the new building of pagoda and dignity for the rich.

The 70.000USD could be divert to the development of the village in many sectors that bring about tremendous benefits. The road has been very bumpy in the dry season and very difficult to travel in the rainy season. The money can be used to construct a smooth cement road that can last for a very long time. Investment on the electricity can also take place. Life is really difficult in the village because still there is no electricity in the village. In addition, the money can be invested in clean water system for the government, because nowadays water is very expensive. By doing so, it can save the villagers some more money to spend on other specific products. Furthermore, news schools and schools materials can also be brought by this money.

The main problem is people do not have the will to donate their money to this village development project. They prefer to donate to the ceremony of the pagoda because they believe that they would receive more good deed. As far as I am concerned, by developing the village, you can liberate people from poverty and ignorance. This is a greater deed than any other charity in the whole world.