The Choa Chu Kang Cemetery Complex is the only place you can bury a loved one in Singapore across various religions. However, burial periods are restricted to only 15 years before the graves get exhumed. For some families, they choose cremation instead where the cremated remains can be stored in an urn at home, in a columbarium, or be scattered at sea.
The choice may not always be easy. As one deals with the emotional turmoil of their loved one’s passing, it is beneficial to enlist the help of a funeral director to assist in funeral arrangements and planning. This also includes understanding what the option of cremation entails and if it’s best decision for the deceased and family.
What happens during the cremation process?
The body is placed into a cremation container made out of wood or other combustible material and it will be subjected to open flames, extreme heat and evaporation inside the cremation chamber. Due to the high temperatures, most of the organic matter will be vaporised and bones get incinerated, thus reducing it down to fragments after around 2 hours. After a cooling period, a cremulator is used to ground the remains are grounded to a finer consistency before being presented to the family.
Is the service before or after the cremation?
Typically, one associates the burial options with a traditional funeral service. But cremations can take place after the wake, where an open casket viewing may be included as well. Guests can pay their respects and say a few parting words to the deceased before the body is transported to the crematorium. Alternatively, a memorial service can also be held after the cremation if the remains are kept in an urn. Here, people can honour the deceased and celebrate the life of the departed.
What is the perspective of religions on cremation?
For many people, their religious faith will play a role in guiding their decisions. For example, Islam and Judaism has been strictly opposed to cremation throughout most of its history. Most Protestant churches and Catholicism have become more accepting of cremation. For Buddhism and Hinduism, cremation is often encouraged and is the popular choice.
If you are still unsure whether cremation services are right for you and your religion’s stance, consult with your priest, religious leader or spiritual advisor to clarify your doubts.
What are the costs involved in a cremation?
Your funeral director is able to help coordinate a cremation. You can choose between a private crematoria or government-managed crematorium in Singapore. Cremation fees differ, ranging from $100 for the government-run Mandai crematorium to $500 for private crematoriums.
Once you have the cremated ashes, the cost of the urn and storage columbaria niches would also have to be considered.