A Chinese 'monk' wearing expensive-looking jewellery and a thick gold watch was spotted shopping with his personal aide on Tuesday at People's Park Complex.

STOMP reported that the monk was accompanied by a personal aide who pushed a pram with two small dogs in it.

The surprised reader who wrote into STOMP questioned if it is acceptable for a 'monk' to be out shopping with an assistant, pushing a pram with two pet dogs inside?

The reader said:

"This 'monk' was wearing expensive-looking gemstones and a heavy gold watch.

"Is this really Buddhism?"

But the 21st century monk is seemingly more willing to spend and indulge. Another recent report from STOMP reported that two monks were seen shopping for laptops which were in the S$1,000 price range. One of them was even seen using the Apple iPhone.

Click on thumbnail to view (Photos: STOMP)