Today, 31 August 2026, marks the 20th anniversary of the passing of the late Venerable K. Sri Dhammananda (1918–2006), former Sangha Nāyaka of Malaysia and Singapore, and Nalanda’s late Spiritual Adviser.

For more than five decades, Ven. Dhammananda dedicated his life to propagating the Buddha-Dhamma and serving the Buddhist community. Through his wisdom, compassion and tireless service, he made the Dhamma accessible and relevant to people from all walks of life. He guided generations of Buddhists in understanding the Buddha’s teachings and applying them meaningfully in their daily lives.

Under his spiritual leadership, many Buddhist societies were established and strengthened, providing opportunities for generations of Malaysians to learn, practise and serve. Twenty years after his passing, we continue to benefit from the seeds he planted and the strong foundations laid by him and other Buddhist pioneers.

Throughout this special 20th Memorial Observance, Nalanda has commemorated Ven. Dhammananda’s life and legacy through various programmes that bring us closer to his teachings and spirit of service. These include the ‘Terima Kasih, Dhammananda’ Exhibition, Intra-Buddhist Dialogue, K. Sri Dhammananda Dhamma Series, Buddhist & Pāli Studies Course, the upcoming ‘Dhamma through Drama – The Conquest of Asoka’, and Dhammananda Youth Camp.

These programmes are not merely occasions to remember a great Buddhist monk. More importantly, they invite us to reflect on how we can continue his legacy by learning the Dhamma earnestly, practising it diligently, serving selflessly, and leading our own lives with wisdom and compassion.

On this 20th Memorial Day, let us recollect Ven. Dhammananda with deep gratitude and renew our commitment to learn, practise and uphold the Buddha-Dhamma. May his exemplary life continue to inspire us to lead lives of wisdom and compassion, and to bring the light of Dhamma to generations to come.