Singapore is a multi-ethnic, multi-faith society where Buddhist, Taoist, Christian, Catholic, Hindu, Muslim, Soka, and Freethinker funeral traditions exist side by side. Understanding these diverse customs is valuable whether you are arranging a funeral for a loved one, attending a wake, or simply seeking to be a respectful member of Singapore's diverse community.
This guide covers the key funeral customs and traditions practised in Singapore across all major faiths.
Buddhist Funeral Customs
Buddhism is the most practised religion in Singapore, with approximately 31% of the population identifying as Buddhist. Buddhist funerals focus on the principles of impermanence, compassion, and karma.
Duration and Format
Buddhist wakes typically last 3, 5, or 7 days. Odd numbers are used as they signify the "incomplete cycle of life." Most families choose a 3 or 5-day wake.
Key Rituals
- Monk chanting: Monks chant the Amitabha Sutra and Heart Sutra to guide the deceased's spirit toward a favourable rebirth and transfer merit.
- Altar setup: A portrait of the deceased is displayed with Buddhist symbols, candles, incense, fruits, and flowers.
- Incense offerings: Visitors offer incense sticks at the altar while bowing as a sign of respect.
- Cleansing: A bucket of water with fresh flowers is placed at the entrance for visitors to symbolically cleanse themselves after visiting.
Bai Jin (Condolence Money)
Condolence money, known as bai jin or pek kim, is given in white envelopes. This is a common practice at Chinese funerals (both Buddhist and Taoist) to help the family with funeral expenses.
Mourning Period
After the funeral, a 49-day mourning period is observed. The soul is believed to go through 7 stages of transition, each lasting 7 days, before rebirth. Families hold weekly prayer sessions and may adopt vegetarian diets during this period.
For a detailed guide, see our Buddhist funeral traditions guide.
Taoist Funeral Customs
Taoist funerals are among the most elaborate and ritualistic in Singapore, deeply rooted in Chinese spiritual traditions. They vary significantly by dialect group (Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese, Hakka, Hainanese).
Duration and Format
Like Buddhist funerals, Taoist wakes last 3, 5, or 7 days (always odd numbers). They are commonly held at HDB void decks, funeral parlours, or private residences.
Key Rituals
- Taoist priests (Daoshi): Central to the ceremony, leading all major rituals and chanting in the deceased's native dialect.
- Paper offerings (Zhizha): Large, colourful paper structures such as houses, cars, servants, and modern items (phones, credit cards) are burned to "send" them to the deceased in the afterlife.
- Breaking the Hell's Gate: A dramatic ritual where priests construct and break a symbolic gate representing obstacles in the underworld.
- Soul-Calling Ritual: Priests invite the spirit of the deceased to "return" to the altar.
Dialect-Specific Traditions
Different Chinese dialect groups observe variations:
- Hokkien: Features the "Tng Say Hong" merit-making ceremony on the final night
- Teochew: Known for solemnity and the "Bridge Crossing Ceremony" (Nai He Qiao)
- Cantonese: Features the "Buying Water Ceremony" where the eldest son washes the deceased
- Hakka: Emphasises ancestor worship and chanting of Taoist scriptures
- Hainanese: Generally more minimalist with a water cleansing ritual
Mourning Period
A 49-day mourning period is observed, similar to Buddhist traditions. Families set up an altar at home (An Ling) or lodge the spirit tablet at a temple (Ji Ling). Key prayer dates fall every 7th day, with the 49th day being the most significant.
For a detailed guide, see our Taoist funeral customs guide.
Christian Funeral Customs
Christian funerals in Singapore follow Protestant or Catholic traditions, emphasising faith in the resurrection and eternal life.
Duration and Format
Christian wakes typically last 2 to 5 days, with 1 to 3 days being more common. The formal funeral service is held on the final day, usually at the church the deceased attended.
Wake Activities
- Nightly prayers, hymns, and scripture readings
- Visitors sign a condolence book and view the casket
- Candle lighting and sharing of memories
- No incense burning, joss paper, or ancestral offerings
Funeral Service
The formal service follows a structured order:
- Opening prayer by the pastor or minister
- Congregational hymns (e.g., "Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," "The Lord Is My Shepherd")
- Scripture readings (Psalm 23, John 14:1-3, Romans 8:38-39)
- Sermon on hope and resurrection
- Eulogies and tributes from family and friends
- Prayers of commendation
- Closing hymn and benediction
Catholic Specifics
Roman Catholic funerals include additional elements:
- Nightly Rosary during the wake, led by a priest, deacon, or family member
- Requiem Mass on the final day at the church, including Holy Communion
- Rite of Committal at the graveside or crematorium
- Cremation is permitted but the Church requests that ashes be interred in a columbarium or cemetery, not scattered or kept at home
For a detailed guide, see our Christian funeral etiquette guide.
Hindu Funeral Customs
Hindu funerals in Singapore are typically completed within 24 hours of death, reflecting the belief in the soul's swift journey onward.
Body Preparation
- The body is washed with milk and honey and anointed with essential oils
- Mantras from the Garuda Purana are chanted during the washing
- The body is positioned with the head facing south (the direction of Yama, god of death)
Key Rituals
- Priest (Purohit): Leads chants and prayers from sacred texts
- Cremation: Strongly preferred in Hinduism. The eldest son or closest male relative traditionally presses the button at the crematorium
- Mukhagni: The son carries an earthen pot of water on his left shoulder, walks around the body, and throws the pot backward to break it, symbolising the cutting of earthly ties
- Asthi Visarjan: Post-cremation ash immersion, typically sea scattering in Singapore or in the Ganges River in India
Attire
White is preferred for Hindu funerals (not black), as white symbolises purity and mourning in Hindu tradition.
Regional Variations
Tamil, Bengali, and North Indian communities may observe slightly different customs, but the core elements of washing, chanting, and cremation are shared.
Muslim Funeral Customs
Muslim funerals in Singapore are typically completed within 24 hours, following Islamic requirements for prompt burial.
Key Rituals
- Bathing (Ghusl): The body is washed at least 3 times by Muslims of the same gender
- Shrouding (Kafan): The body is wrapped in plain white cloth coated with camphor, sandalwood powder, and non-alcoholic perfume
- Funeral Prayer (Salat al-Janazah): The congregation faces Mecca and offers prayers seeking pardon for the deceased
- Burial: The body is lowered into the grave without a coffin, facing the Qiblat (direction of Mecca), and covered with soil
- Talkin: A funeral sermon read at the grave after burial
Post-Funeral Observances
Tahlil ceremonies (prayer gatherings) are held on the 3rd, 7th, 40th, and 100th day after death. These include recitation of prayers and sharing of a simple meal.
Important Notes
- Cremation is not permitted in Islam. All Muslim deceased are buried at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery
- Burial costs at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery for Muslim crypts are $315
Soka Funeral Customs
Soka (Soka Gakkai International) funerals are rooted in Nichiren Buddhism and emphasise minimalism, sincerity, and simplicity.
Key Practices
- Chanting: The core practice is chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, led by a Soka Gakkai leader or practitioners
- Offerings: Flowers and incense are offered during the wake; sutras are chanted to guide the departed toward tranquility
- Simplicity: Extravagance is frowned upon. The emphasis is on a humble, sincere service
- Columbarium: Members may place ashes at the An-Le Memorial Hall at Senja Soka Centre
- Ash options: Sea burial (south of Pulau Semakau) or Garden of Peace scattering, reflecting the belief in "oneness" of the believer and the environment
Freethinker (Non-Religious) Funeral Customs
Freethinker funerals offer complete flexibility, with no religious elements.
Format
- Duration: Typically 1 to 5 days
- No prayers, chanting, or religious rites
- Fully customisable: Photo montages, favourite music, themed decor, tribute videos, personal poems, and eulogies
- Modern elements: Live streaming, online memorials, and digital condolence messages
Freethinker funeral packages typically start from around $4,000 to $5,500 for a 3 to 5-day service at an HDB void deck.
Little Angels (Children's Funerals)
Children's funerals are handled with particular sensitivity and care.
Key Features
- Duration: Usually 1 to 2 days, often without a formal wake
- Special touches: A teddy bear is placed with the child, and a matching teddy is given to the parents as a keepsake
- Angel Gowns: Some services use gowns repurposed from donated wedding dresses
- Personal items: Belongings, flowers, and handwritten notes may be placed inside the coffin
For babies under 22 weeks without a birth certificate, a doctor's memo is required for cremation.
General Funeral Etiquette Across All Faiths
Regardless of the faith tradition, these etiquette guidelines apply at most funerals in Singapore:
Attending a Wake
- Anyone is welcome to attend a wake and pay their respects
- Arrive and leave quietly; offer condolences to the family
- Follow the religious customs of the service, even if it is not your own faith
- Participate in prayers or rituals as appropriate (standing when others stand, remaining silent during chanting)
What to Wear
- Dress conservatively in black or white for most funerals
- Avoid red (associated with joy and celebration in Chinese culture), unless specifically requested for a very elderly deceased (80+ years) in some Chinese traditions where red may symbolise a "blessed" long life
- Avoid bright colours, flashy accessories, and overly casual clothing
- White is preferred for Hindu funerals
Bai Jin (Condolence Money)
- Common at Chinese funerals (Buddhist and Taoist)
- Given in white envelopes, typically in even amounts
- Cash donations or "pek kim" are also given at Christian funerals in Singapore
- Some families prefer charitable donations in lieu of condolence money
Things to Avoid
- Do not take photos of the deceased without the family's permission
- Avoid saying auspicious or celebratory greetings
- Do not bring up controversial topics or family disputes
- Some families believe pregnant women should not attend funerals
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear to a funeral in Singapore?
For most funerals, wear conservative black or white clothing. Avoid red and bright colours. For Hindu funerals, white is specifically preferred. Always dress modestly and respectfully.
How long does a funeral last in Singapore?
It depends on the faith tradition. Muslim and Hindu funerals are typically completed within 1 day. Chinese Buddhist and Taoist wakes last 3 to 7 days. Christian wakes are usually 2 to 5 days.
Can I attend a funeral of a different religion?
Yes. All wakes in Singapore welcome visitors regardless of their own faith. Simply follow the customs of the service and show respect.
What is bai jin?
Bai jin (also called pek kim) is condolence money given in a white envelope at Chinese funerals. It is a gesture of support to help the family with funeral expenses. Amounts are typically even numbers.
Are paper offerings a Buddhist or Taoist practice?
Paper offering burning is more traditionally a Taoist and Chinese folk practice. However, due to cultural syncretism in Singapore, many Chinese Buddhist families also practise it. Some Buddhist temples discourage paper burning on doctrinal and environmental grounds.
What happens if I accidentally wear the wrong colour?
If you arrive at a funeral wearing an inappropriate colour, do not worry excessively. Most families will understand that the gesture of attending is what matters. If possible, keep a dark jacket or cardigan on hand to wear over bright clothing.