Elder Zhu Mo, originally from Yueqing, Zhejiang, used the sobriquet Monk of Yandang Mountain. His secular surname was Chen and his given name was De?an. He was an eminent monk of his generation. In 1928, he received ordination from Master Dixian at Guanzong Temple, studied Buddhist doctrine under Master Taixu, and studied painting and calligraphy under Gao Jianfu of the Lingnan school. During the Sino-Japanese War in 1937, he took refuge in Hong Kong and Macau, promoted Buddhism, and edited The Awakened One and Endless Lamp magazines. In May 1954, he arrived in Penang and taught at Bodhi School. In 1959, he led the founding of the Malaysian Buddhist Association and was elected its first chief, serving for many terms. In 1969, he initiated the Malaysian Buddhist Institute and served as its dean for many years. In 1998, he was conferred a datukship by the Governor of Penang. He served as adviser to the Malaysia Calligraphy Association and the Malaysian Buddhist Association. Publications include Collected Calligraphy and Paintings of Master Zhu Mo and Seal-Fragrance Studio Calligraphy and Paintings. Elder Zhu Mo excelled in epigraphy, calligraphy, painting, poetry, and prose. His calligraphy is admired for refined spirit, effortless composition, and a detached elegance in which every stroke is alive and every aspect natural.