PENANG: In a bid to crack down on bogus monks, the Penang Island City Council distributes banners in Malay, Chinese, Tamil and English for display at food courts, wet markets and public areas urging public to offer food instead of cash.

Tan Soo Siang, a councillor, said foreign monks, mostly Thai who visit Malaysia with travel pass, are seen at those areas seeking donations from members of public.

Believed to be bogus monks, the number of foreigners in monk robes with a bowl seeking cash donations is on the rise lately.

Tan said only the police and relevant agencies are empowered to take against bogus monks.

The council is working closely with Immigration Department, police, Penang Harmony Centre, the Malaysian Buddhist Association (MBA), and the United Buddhist Organisation (UBA) to crack down on bogus monks.

Foreigners who enter Malaysia on travel pass are not allowed to seek donations, she said.

Another councillor, Ray Choong encouraged the public to lodge a report with the council if they come across bogus monks.

“We will take necessary action by referring them to the Thai Consulate in Penang to verify their identity,’’ he said.

According to the Thai Consulate, the Thai monks are not allowed to beg for cash donations in Malaysia, he said.

The council is also planning for a joint operation with the relevant agencies to follow up on the bogus monks, said Tan at the Batu Lanchang Hawker Centre on Thursday.

Northeast District Crime Prevention Division chief DSP Salim Emin said the police would assist the council in stepping up its efforts against bogus monks.

Harmonico general manager Paul Au urged the public to be extra vigilant, reminding them that monks do not ask for money, but food in the bowl that they carry with them.

Monks would also be offering talisman or strings in exchange for cash.

In addition, Thai monks do not ask for food after lunch, he said.