China ‘living Buddha’ honoured for US$9 million donation after saving every cent for charity
Wang is leaving no inheritance to his children, having informed them that his wealth will continue to be donated even after his passing
A 98-year-old man in eastern China has garnered widespread praise for his remarkable philanthropy, which includes donations totalling 60 million yuan (US$9 million), while leading an exceptionally frugal life himself.
Wang Chunwen, a resident of Ninghai county in Zhejiang province, has been honoured with the China Charity Award by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the highest accolade in the country to recognise significant contributions to charitable efforts.
In early September, Wang’s son travelled to Beijing to attend the award ceremony and accept the award on behalf of his father, who has chosen to refrain from travelling due to his advanced age, as reported by the Ningbo Daily.
Wang is the founder of Xinghua Industries, a manufacturer of plastic and steel products. Since 2001, he has donated 60 million yuan to the Ninghai Charity Foundation.
Before that, he engaged in a myriad of charitable activities over several decades.
Wang faced significant challenges in his early life, losing his father at the age of 13, which forced him to leave school and work as an apprentice.
