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Cremation has been the primary choice of preserving remains in Singapore, with 82% opting for cremation, due to cultural acceptance and spatial constraints of the island. Understanding the specifics of cremation services, from the available facilities to the costs and booking procedures, can help families make informed decisions during a difficult time.
Cremation services are provided by the government and available to the public in Mandai, or by private crematoriums, at the following prices as of 2024:
Mandai Crematorium, managed by NEA, is the more widely used crematorium, and the only location for public cremation services. It is the only crematorium for Hindu, Christian and Catholic funerals in Singapore.
Booking Information:
Booking is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm (closed from 1pm-2pm for lunch), with cremation slots ranging from about 8.45am to 6.00pm. Same day cremations are possible if bookings are made before 2.30pm.
Cremation slots can be booked through telephone (+65 6554 5655), or through NEA’s online portal here.
Payment of $100, or $50 for children below 10 can be paid via Cash Card, Credit Card or NETS (cash is not accepted).
Documents Required:
According to NEA, these documents are required to apply for cremation:
1) Digital Death Certificate of deceased
2) Permit to Cremate, which can be obtained here
3) NRIC or passport of applicant of next-of-kin of deceased
4) Letter of authorisation if applicant is not a next-of-kin of deceased
Cremation Facilities and Process:
Processions typically begin in the service hall, where loved ones can pay their last respects and give their eulogies with the coffin in view, and final religious services can be performed (although burning of joss paper is not allowed).
Thereafter, the coffin will be prepared for cremation, and loved ones asked to proceed to the viewing gallery, where they would be able to view the coffin enter the cremator if they want to, beginning the process of cremation.
Mandai Crematorium’s facilities are fully air-conditioned. This ensures a comfortable environment for all attendees, regardless of the weather conditions outside.
Collection of Ashes:
Ashes can be collected after 3pm on the same day for cremations before 12pm. For cremations after 12pm, ashes can be collected from the next day. Ashes has to be collected within 14 days of the date of cremation.
Ashes can be collected either at Chua Chu Kang or Mandai’s respective Ash Collection Centers.
Post-Cremation:
Loved ones can opt to purchase a niche to commemorate the deceased at Mandai Columbarium. This option provides a lasting and respectful place for remembrance.
Learn more in our article about columbaria here.
Refer to the terms on conditions here.
Buddhists and Taoists can opt to be cremated at the Bright Hill Temple, which is privately owned and the largest monastery in Singapore.
Cremation costs $327 (according to NEA).
Booking of Cremation Slots:
Cremation slots can only be booked via funeral directors or casket companies, although more information can be sought via calling +65 6849 5333, or visiting their website.
Cremation Service:
On top of the cremation, loved ones can opt to have religious services performed, such as prayers (https://kmspks.org/services/prayers/). These services come at additional costs which would be made known at enquiry.
Loved ones can also opt for Custody Service (Ji Ling), where ashes can be place in the Monastery to continue prayers for the next 21 days (at $330), 49 days ($550),or 100 days ($1100). Note that prayer costs are not included in these prices.
Post-Cremation:
Urns and Ashes can be stored at the monastery from $1,600. Call to find out more.
Another option for Buddhists and Taoists is Tse Tho Aum Temple at Sim Ming Drive. Cremation costs $436 (according to NEA).
Information on cremation at Tse Tho Aum Temple is not widely available, so please seek the advice of a funeral director, or call the temple at +65 6454 7666 (9.00am to 3.30pm Tues – Sun; Closed on Mon).
Post-Cremation:
Urns and Ashes can be stored at the Temple. Call them to find out more.
