OFFICE OF SIRIDANTAMAHĀPĀLAKA / HSWAGATA BUDDHA TOOTH RELICS PRESERVATION MUSEUM – MASTER TEMPLATE
ADMINISTRATIVE HEADER (FOR INTERNAL USE)
Template No.: T85
Template Title: Standard Relic MoU Template – Custodianship & Cooperation
Related Research Case IDs: F85 – Standard Relic MoU Template (Cluster F, Case 85)
Linked Templates / Cases: [e.g. T21–T35 (MoUs), T66–T84, T70 (donations), T71 (transitional custody), T73–T77 (verification & media), T78 (15 Principles), T81 (documentation), T82 (audit), H96–H100]
Cluster: F – HGT Conflicts (Cases 66–85)
Draft version no.: _______ Date of draft: ____ / ____ / ______
Approved version no.: _______ Date of approval: ____ / ____ / ______
Prepared by / Role: _________________________________________________
Checked by (legal / ethics): ________________________________________
Confidentiality Level (internal template):
[ ] Public model [ ] Internal reference [ ] Restricted / legal
MODEL MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
FOR RELIC CUSTODIANSHIP, LOAN, DISPLAY & COOPERATION
NOTE: Text in square brackets [like this] is to be customised.
This MoU should always be read together with H96 and the 15 Principles of Ethical Relic Governance.
1. PARTIES
This Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) is made between:
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[PARTY A – FULL LEGAL NAME]
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Type: [Temple / Monastery / Museum / Foundation / State Agency / Other]
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Address: ________________________________________________________
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Represented by: ________________________________________________
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Role in this MoU (e.g. sending / loaning relics, host, joint custodian):
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[PARTY B – FULL LEGAL NAME]
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Type: [Temple / Monastery / Museum / Foundation / State Agency / Other]
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Address: ________________________________________________________
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Represented by: ________________________________________________
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Role in this MoU: ______________________________________________
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(Additional parties, if any, may be added as Annex A-1.)
Collectively referred to as the “Parties”, and individually as a “Party”.
2. BACKGROUND & SHARED INTENTION
2.1 Background
[Brief narrative – 1–2 paragraphs – of why the Parties wish to cooperate; mention history, relationship, relic(s) or reliquary(ies) involved. Neutral tone.]
2.2 Shared Intention
The Parties express their intention to cooperate as trustees, not owners, of relics (dhātu) for the benefit of:
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the Buddha Sāsana;
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current and future devotees and communities; and
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the protection of cultural heritage, in line with relevant SDGs.
Short statement (2–4 sentences):
3. DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this MoU:
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“Relics” means ________________________________________________
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“Reliquaries” means ___________________________________________
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“Custodianship” means _________________________________________
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“Loan” / “Deposit” means _______________________________________
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“Hosting Site” means ___________________________________________
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“H96 Custodian” refers to the ethical model described in H96–H100
(trustee, not owner; peace-oriented; SDG-aligned governance).
Additional terms (optional):
Term: ______________________ Definition: ___________________________
Term: ______________________ Definition: ___________________________
4. GUIDING PRINCIPLES
4.1 Buddhist doctrinal–ethical principles
The Parties agree that custodianship of relics shall be guided by:
[ ] dhātu – relics as shared supports for Buddhānussati, not private property.
[ ] Dhammadāyāda – heir to the Dhamma, not to prestige or wealth.
[ ] dāna – generosity free from coercion, fear, or manipulation.
[ ] sacca / sammā-vācā – truthful, beneficial, gentle, and timely speech.
[ ] hiri–ottappa – wise shame and fear of wrongdoing.
[ ] mettā / karuṇā – compassion towards all involved.
[ ] anicca / anattā – non-attachment to roles, titles, and “my relics”.
4.2 Peace & conflict sensitivity
The Parties will:
[ ] Seek to prevent direct, structural, and cultural violence in relic-related matters.
[ ] Use dialogue and mediation rather than public shaming or threats.
[ ] Consider the peace–violence spectrum when making decisions.
4.3 Governance & SDGs
The Parties will:
[ ] Follow transparent and accountable processes in line with SDG 16.
[ ] Protect the heritage value of relics in line with SDG 11.4.
[ ] Build fair and respectful partnerships in line with SDG 17.
4.4 H96 reflection
Before major decisions, the Parties should ask:
“Are we acting as trustees, not owners, and as peace-oriented H96 custodians?”
5. SCOPE OF COOPERATION
5.1 Relics / items covered
This MoU applies to the relic(s) and related items listed in Annex B – Relic Inventory, including:
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Relic / item name / description;
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Quantity;
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Reliquary details;
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Existing documentation and provenance;
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Special conditions or restrictions.
5.2 Types of cooperation (tick all that apply)
[ ] Long-term loan / deposit of relic(s).
[ ] Short-term loan for specific ceremony / exhibition.
[ ] Joint custodianship / shared display.
[ ] Conservation / research collaboration.
[ ] Joint ceremonies / educational programmes.
[ ] Other: ___________________________________________________________
5.3 Geographical scope
This MoU applies to activities in:
[ ] Country / region: ________________________________________________
[ ] Specific sites: _________________________________________________
6. OWNERSHIP, TRUSTEESHIP & USE
6.1 Ownership vs trusteeship
Tick and fill as appropriate:
[ ] The relic(s) remain the property of [Party X / lineage], but all Parties agree to act as trustees, not owners.
[ ] Legal ownership is not asserted; instead, this MoU recognises shared custodial responsibilities as per Buddhist teaching and local law.
Short clarification:
6.2 Permitted uses
Relics covered by this MoU may be used for:
[ ] Public veneration / Buddhānussati.
[ ] Educational and research purposes.
[ ] Specific ceremonies (list): ______________________________________
[ ] Other: ___________________________________________________________
Use is not permitted for:
[ ] Commercial exploitation beyond agreed donations / offerings.
[ ] Misleading promotion / unverified claims (e.g. tests, royal letters).
[ ] Political or partisan purposes.
[ ] Other: ___________________________________________________________
6.3 Prohibited actions
[ ] Unauthorised removal or transfer of relics.
[ ] Unauthorised testing or tampering.
[ ] Forgery or misuse of documents or institutional names.
7. CUSTODY, CONSERVATION & SECURITY
7.1 Custodial responsibilities
Primary custodial site: ______________________________________________
Main custodial institution / unit: __________________________________
Key responsibilities (tick and detail):
[ ] Physical security & safe storage.
[ ] Environmental control and conservation.
[ ] Daily / routine inspection.
[ ] Record-keeping (link to T70, T81, T82).
Short description:
7.2 Access & display
[ ] Public access (describe conditions): ______________________________
[ ] Restricted access (monastics / staff / researchers): ______________
[ ] Pilgrimage / ceremonial access: ___________________________________
7.3 Insurance / legal compliance (if applicable)
[ ] Insurance arrangements (if any): _________________________________
[ ] Compliance with heritage / customs / other laws: __________________
8. DOCUMENTATION, TESTING & VERIFICATION
8.1 Documentation
The Parties will keep and share necessary records, including:
[ ] Donation / loan documents (T70, T81).
[ ] Photographic records.
[ ] Lab / test reports (if any).
[ ] Relevant MoUs, statutes, and minutes.
8.2 Scientific testing & verification
Any proposed testing (e.g. C-14, DNA, material analysis) must:
[ ] Be discussed and agreed in writing by the Parties.
[ ] Follow agreed SOPs (see T53–T56 or local equivalent).
[ ] Avoid misleading “science talk” in public communication.
Short protocol note:
8.3 Fact-checking
When questions or allegations arise, the Parties will:
[ ] Use agreed verification tools (T53–T56, F76, T77).
[ ] Contact relevant external institutions directly, in a respectful manner.
[ ] Correct errors publicly where needed, to protect faith and truth.
9. COMMUNICATION & MEDIA
9.1 Spokespersons
Each Party designates:
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[Name / Role] as primary spokesperson.
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[Name / Role] as backup / deputy.
9.2 Media guidelines
The Parties agree:
[ ] Not to make public claims about tests, royal letters, or state support without verification.
[ ] To follow internal media guidelines (e.g. T77).
[ ] To consult each other before major public announcements related to this MoU.
9.3 Public communication in conflict
If conflicts arise, the Parties will:
[ ] Prioritise internal dialogue and mediation before public statements.
[ ] Avoid personal attacks, shaming, or threats.
[ ] Issue joint clarifications where possible.
10. CONFLICT RESOLUTION & PEACE MECHANISMS
10.1 Internal dialogue
If disagreements occur, the Parties will:
[ ] First seek solution through direct dialogue between designated representatives.
10.2 Mediation
If direct dialogue fails:
[ ] Parties may invite a mutually agreed mediator (e.g. respected Sayadaw / neutral institution / peace mediator).
10.3 Escalation
Only after good-faith efforts at dialogue and mediation may Parties consider:
[ ] Formal complaints within their own structures.
[ ] Legal steps, if absolutely necessary and in line with law.
10.4 H96 peace reflection
At each stage, Parties should ask:
“Are we moving towards positive peace (justice, respect, safety), or towards escalation and harm?”
Short note on agreed conflict-handling practice:
11. DURATION, REVIEW & TERMINATION
11.1 Duration
This MoU becomes effective on: ____ / ____ / ______
And remains in force until: ____ / ____ / ______
[ ] or: indefinitely, unless terminated under Clause 11.3.
11.2 Review
[ ] Annual review (link to T82 – Audit).
[ ] Review after major events / incidents.
11.3 Termination
This MoU may be terminated by:
[ ] Written notice (e.g. 3–6 months’ notice).
[ ] Mutual agreement.
[ ] Serious breach (describe consequences and procedures).
Short termination clause:
11.4 Fate of relics upon termination
Tick and specify:
[ ] Relics return to [Party X]: ______________________________________
[ ] Relics remain with [Party Y] as trustee: _________________________
[ ] Other arrangement (describe clearly): ____________________________
12. MISCELLANEOUS
12.1 Non-legally binding / or binding (choose)
[ ] This MoU is morally and ethically binding, but not intended as a legal contract.
[ ] This MoU is intended to be legally binding, subject to applicable law.
(Parties may add full legal clauses if required by law.)
12.2 Language version(s)
[ ] This MoU is drawn up in __________________ and __________________.
[ ] In case of discrepancy, the __________________ version prevails.
12.3 Amendments
Any amendment must be:
[ ] In writing;
[ ] Signed by authorised representatives of all Parties;
[ ] Recorded with a unique amendment code and date.
13. SIGNATURES
For [PARTY A – full name]:
Name: _______________________________
Position / Role: _____________________
Signature: __________________________
Date: ____ / ____ / ______
Witness (if required):
Name: _______________________________
Signature: __________________________
Date: ____ / ____ / ______
For [PARTY B – full name]:
Name: _______________________________
Position / Role: _____________________
Signature: __________________________
Date: ____ / ____ / ______
Witness (if required):
Name: _______________________________
Signature: __________________________
Date: ____ / ____ / ______
(Add signature blocks for additional Parties if needed.)
14. ANNEXES (TO BE ATTACHED AS NEEDED)
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Annex A: List of Parties and authorised representatives.
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Annex B: Relic & reliquary inventory (item codes, descriptions, photos).
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Annex C: Relevant SOPs (testing, documentation, media).
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Annex D: Reference to 15 Principles, H96 Model, and internal guidelines.
