The nuns are excited about the project and grateful for the support and the positive feedback from the local community. “This is our lifetime dream of living in a traditional monastery that we can study and practice about peace and about harmony, and we really feel grateful that the community gave us the chance,” said Venerable Yvonne.
The monastery complex will cover 120 hectares of land, with 200,000 square feet of buildings and multiple green spaces, including gardens, a green house, and walking trails—some of which will be open to the public. The campus will include a few clusters of buildings that will comprise residences, lectures halls, spaces of worship, and recreational facilities.
According to the project masterplan, the monastery also aims to contribute to local businesses, both during and after construction. GWBI stated that during construction, it will use island services and products as much as possible to help boost the local economy. After construction, GWBI intends to engage in many charitable initiatives involving the local community, including island clean-up days, working with seniors, and making bread for the underprivileged.
(source:www.buddhistdoor.net)