Complete Guide to Holding a Funeral Service in Singapore

Here’s a complete guide to holding a funeral service in Singapore, as well as how to give your loved one the send-off they deserve without incurring too much financial burden in the process.

Complete Guide to Holding a Funeral Service in Singapore Image by Johana Peña from Pixabay

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A Comprehensive Guide: Holding a Funeral Service in Singapore

In this article, we provide a step-by-step guide to holding a funeral service in Singapore, covering essential aspects like registering the death, sending off the deceased, and remembering the departed.

Register the Death

First things first, you need to register the death within 24 hours as per Singaporean law. This can be done at any police divisional headquarters or the Neighbourhood Police Centres/Posts. The cause of death certificate needs to be issued by a certified medical practitioner.

Hold a Funeral Service

Once the death is registered, the next step is to hold a funeral service. In Singapore, the funeral can be of various types: Taoist, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, or Non-religious. The service usually includes a wake that lasts for 3 to 7 days, followed by a funeral procession and a cremation or burial.

Send off the Deceased

The funeral procession is a crucial part of the send-off for the deceased. It typically includes transportation of the casket from the wake to the crematorium or cemetery, followed by a service at the final resting place. This is a solemn occasion and requires careful planning.

Remembering the Departed

In Singapore, many families choose to remember the departed through rituals such as Qing Ming Festival or the Hungry Ghost Festival. These rituals involve offerings to the deceased and symbolic gestures to show respect and remembrance.

Other Associated Costs

  • Funeral Director Fees: Handling of all logistics, including collection of the body, embalming, and arranging the funeral service.
  • Coffin/Casket: Prices can range widely depending on the material and design.
  • Rental of Funeral Parlour: Depending on the duration of the wake, this can be a significant cost.
  • Flowers and Wreaths: These are customarily used for decoration and as a sign of respect.
  • Newspaper Obituary: An announcement in the local newspaper is common, but optional.

Service Provider Estimated Price Services Provided
Singapore Casket SGD 4,500-6,500 Comprehensive funeral services
Ang Chin Moh Funeral Directors SGD 4,000-6,000 Full-service funeral planning
Trinity Casket SGD 3,800-5,800 Customized funeral services
Harmony Funeral Care SGD 3,500-5,500 Various types of funerals
Serenity Casket SGD 3,500-5,500 All-inclusive funeral packages

Please note that all prices mentioned are estimations and for accurate information, we recommend conducting your own research and visiting the providers’ websites directly.

When selecting a service, look beyond the cost. Consider the reputation of the provider, the services included in the package, and the specific needs and preferences of your family.

In conclusion, holding a funeral service in Singapore involves several steps and associated costs. However, with careful planning and understanding of the process, it can be a meaningful way to remember and honor the departed.