An anonymous MKBA member: "I don't think he should be around our community. I feel uncomfortable. I feel unsafe."
Overview
San Maung Saw Wah, 73, a convicted child sex offender, serves as president of the Melbourne Karen Buddhist Association Inc. (MKBA), a charity that organizes cultural programs involving children as young as six.
The Exemption
In November 2025, Victoria's Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) informed Saw Wah that MKBA was exempt from requiring its staff and volunteers to hold a Working with Children Check, because the organization did not "exercise care, supervision or authority over children."
The CCYP has since been replaced by the Social Services Regulator. The regulator did not answer questions about whether Saw Wah's criminal background was considered in this decision.
Recent Activity
Photos and videos show Saw Wah near children at MKBA events as recently as October 2025.
Criminal History
Saw Wah was convicted in 2015 for sexually assaulting a young girl during a dance practice in 2009, while he was head of the Australian Karen Dance Association. He was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison.
Community and Expert Reactions
An anonymous MKBA member expressed discomfort with Saw Wah's presence in the community.
Adjunct Professor Chris Goddard: "If this man is in a position of authority in an organisation that's organising youth camps, then that is absolutely extraordinary."
Expert Chris Goddard described the exemption as "absolutely extraordinary" and part of a disorganized child protection approach in Australia.
Legal Context
The Social Services Regulator stated that excluded persons engaging in child-related work without a valid Working with Children Check commit a criminal offence.