How to Plan a Funeral in Singapore: A Simple Checklist

Planning a funeral involves a number of decisions, often made quickly and under strain. This checklist lays them out in a clear order so that nothing important is missed.

Choose a funeral director

A licensed funeral director coordinates almost everything. Ask friends for recommendations, compare a couple of providers, and request an itemised quotation. A good director will explain the options patiently and never rush the family.

Decide on the rites

Settle on the religious or cultural rites to be observed, and arrange for any clergy, monks, or priests. This shapes the rest of the arrangements, from the altar to the order of service.

Choose the venue and duration

Wakes are commonly held at void decks, funeral parlours, places of worship, or the family home. Decide how many days the wake will run, as this affects both the schedule and the cost.

Cremation or burial

Choose between cremation, most often at Mandai, and burial, which for Muslim families takes place at the cemeteries in Lim Chu Kang. Decide on the final resting place, such as a columbarium niche, in good time.

Prepare the obituary and notices

An obituary lets people know of the passing and the wake and funeral details. Publishing it online, where it can be shared instantly over messaging apps, helps distant friends and relatives learn of the arrangements quickly. On Obituary.sg, a notice can be posted in minutes and shared with a single link.

On the day

Confirm timings with the funeral director, arrange transport for close family, and appoint one or two relatives to receive guests and manage the register and condolence money. Then let the day unfold, and give yourself permission simply to grieve and remember.