The contribution of Sri Lankan monks to the rebirth and development of Buddhism in South East Asia has been immense, especially in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. The revival which began in the early 20th Century has been sparked mainly by the exodus of Sri Lankans to Malaya who brought with them able religious teachers from Sri Lanka to cater to the spiritual and cultural needs of the Sinhalese Buddhist fraternity.

Some of these monks however have gone beyond their primary duties of catering to the Sinhalese to serve the greater Buddhist population. Ven Dhammananda being the Chief Sanga Nayaka of Malaysia and Singapore was elected the President of this Council.

Venerable Dhammananda being fully aware that 'There is no success without a successor' mooted the idea of convening a Sri Lankan Sangha Conference to chart the future direction of Buddhist work in Malaysia and Singapore. The Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society being the oldest Buddhist Society in Malaysia galvanised its resources to carry out the Venerable's suggestion. The Sangha Conference was held at the Buddhist Maha Vihara on 24th March 2001 which resulted in the formation of the Malaysia & Singapore Sri Lanka Sangha Council.

Members of the Sangha
at the Sangha Council Meeting.

Ven Dhammananda has resolved to produce leaders who could produce other leaders. No longer was it enough to grow by adding leaders. Ven Dhammananda's focus is now upon multiplying those leaders. The Venerable strongly believes that when people work for a common cause, they no longer add to their growth potential. Their unity multiplies their strength.