Mon State has seen a noticeable increase in donation requests under the guise of religious and charitable causes, according to local residents.
In towns and villages across the state—including Ye, Thanbyuzayat, Mudon, and Mawlamyine—solicitors often claim to represent monastic schools, charity organizations, or Buddhist monasteries. They collect donations year-round, citing various causes.
“These donation collectors come regardless of the season. They go from village to village asking for money daily, often under different banners and causes. In places like Ye Township, it’s so common that every household donates without question. No one verifies which organization they’re from or where they’re coming from,” said a resident from Ye Township.
Many solicitors do not obtain proper authorization before collecting donations. Residents are calling for township and village administrators, as well as Buddhist clergy organizations, to verify and regulate such activities.
“In the past, they had to get permission from the village administrators before soliciting in villages. Some villages wouldn’t even allow them in without approval. But now, it has become so routine that no one is enforcing these rules anymore,” said a Mudon resident.
In addition to door-to-door collections, donation seekers can be seen at busy locations such as bus terminals, markets, and railway stations. Dressed in monk robes, nun attire, or yoga clothing, some individuals engage in unauthorized and questionable fundraising activities. Residents urge relevant authorities to address and regulate these practices.
Since the military coup, the economic downturn and widespread unemployment have exacerbated the situation. Donation scams have increased, with individuals posing as war relief organizations, disaster response groups, or charitable associations to solicit funds both in-person and online. However, enforcement against such fraudulent activities remains weak.
