Types of Funerals in Singapore
Funerals in Singapore, There are many religions in Singapore, namely Christianity, Roman Catholics, Buddhism, Soka Association, Nichiren Shoshu, and Taoism. The majority of people in Singapore often mix up between Buddhism and Taoism. Buddhism is a religion by itself. Whereas Taoism is a tradition which is made up of different dialect groups like Hokkien, Teo Chew, Cantonese, Hakka and Hainanese. Despite the many religions and beliefs, there is a suitable funeral package for everyone.
Commonly Seen Funerals in Singapore.
It is very often that we see Buddhist Funeral Services and Christian Funeral Services being set up at the Void Deck of an HDB apartment. These are the two more common religions among Singaporeans. Times have changed and many people are opting for simpler and less complex options for funeral wake arrangements. This is because the younger generation does not follow up with the old traditions. They usually do not have time to conduct or offer prayers on special occasions like death anniversaries etc.
Therefore they would prefer that funerals be conducted in a simpler and less tiring manner so that they are able to manage. Families used to stay at the funeral wake and even take turns to look after the wake. However, times have changed and families would prefer to hire someone to be a night caretaker and look after the funeral wake on their behalf. This is also to ensure that they have sufficient rest for the next day. Not knowing how to plan for a funeral can be very taxing on the family as well.
Cremation or Burial?
Back in the olden days, families would prefer a burial rather than a cremation. They feel the pain and agony when they speak about cremation. Can you imagine your loved ones being cremated right in front of your eyes?. We are sure nobody will want to go through that painful ordeal. In Singapore, a burial plot is available for a lease period of 15 years. Thereafter, you may be required to do an exhumation if the government intends to develop that plot of land. Cremation is more commonly see in Singapore compare to twenty years ago.
Funerals in Singapore
There are a few crematoriums in Singapore. The government-owned one is Mandai Crematorium. There are two other private temples that also does cremation as well, namely Bright Hill Temple and Tse Tho Aum Temple. Of course, cremation fees at private temples will be a little higher compared to the government-owned ones. An ordinary cremation for adults at the government crematorium is at $100 inclusive of GST, whereas it will cost $321 at Bright Hill Temple and $428 at Tse Tho Aum Temple. The cremation booking is usually done by a funeral director. It is their job to book a cremation slot and inform the family of the cremation time.
