Introduction to Muslim Funerals in Singapore

In Singapore, Muslim funerals are solemn, respectful, and deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. Guided by the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), a Muslim funeral focuses on simplicity, dignity, and fulfilling religious obligations towards the deceased.

Unlike some traditions that may span several days, Islamic funerals in Singapore are typically completed within 24 hours of death, whenever possible. This practice reflects the Islamic principle of honouring the deceased by ensuring a swift and dignified burial.

For grieving families, arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming. This guide provides an extensive overview of Muslim funeral rites, customs, services, and costs in Singapore, helping you understand what to expect and how to honour your loved one according to Islamic principles. If you are ready, visit our funeral directory to select your Muslim funeral service provider.

The Meaning of a Muslim Funeral

In Islam, death is seen as a transition from worldly life to the afterlife (akhirah). The funeral is not only a farewell but also a spiritual duty for the Muslim community.

A Muslim funeral serves to:

  • Fulfil religious obligations through prescribed rites such as ghusl (washing), kafan (shrouding), janazah prayer, and burial.
  • Honour the deceased with dignity, simplicity, and modesty.
  • Provide closure and support for the family and community.
  • Seek Allah’s mercy for the soul of the departed through prayers and supplications.

Key Muslim Funeral Traditions in Singapore

1. Ghusl (Ritual Washing of the Body)

The body is ritually washed by same-gender relatives or trained personnel at the mosque or funeral home. The ghusl is performed three or more times, using water mixed with soap or camphor.

2. Kafan (Shrouding)

After washing, the body is wrapped in a plain white shroud (kafan).

  • Men are wrapped in three white sheets.
  • Women are wrapped in five sheets.

This signifies purity, equality, and modesty, as all Muslims are buried the same way regardless of wealth or status.

3. Salat al-Janazah (Funeral Prayer)

The janazah prayer is a collective obligation (fard kifayah) for the Muslim community. It is usually performed at a mosque or funeral venue and led by an imam.

  • It consists of supplications asking Allah for mercy and forgiveness for the deceased.
  • There are no bowing (ruku) or prostrations (sujud) in this prayer.

4. Burial (Defining Feature of Muslim Funerals)

Burial takes place as soon as possible, usually on the same day. In Singapore, burials are held at Pusara Aman Cemetery in Lim Chu Kang, the dedicated Muslim cemetery.

  • The body is placed in the grave on its right side, facing the Qibla (direction of Mecca).
  • Family and friends may place soil into the grave after the imam’s recitation.

The Role of Imams in Muslim Funerals

Imams play a key role in:

  • Leading the janazah prayer.
  • Guiding the family in proper Islamic rites.
  • Offering supplications for the deceased.
  • Providing spiritual comfort and reminders of patience and faith to the bereaved.

Muslim Funeral Setup in Singapore

Muslim funerals are simple and focused on prayer. A typical setup includes:

  • Washing area (ghusl room) at the mosque or funeral home.
  • Janazah prayer space in the mosque or void deck setup.
  • Coffin (keranda) for transporting the body.
  • Grave preparation at Pusara Aman Cemetery.

Unlike other traditions, there are no elaborate decorations or extended wakes. The emphasis is on speed, simplicity, and dignity.

Muslim Funeral Etiquette in Singapore

If you are attending a Muslim funeral:

  • Dress modestly (men in long pants and shirts; women in headscarves if possible).
  • Offer condolences respectfully with phrases like “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un” (To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return).
  • Participate in the janazah prayer if you are Muslim. Non-Muslims may observe quietly.
  • Do not bring flowers, wreaths, or incense, as these are not part of Islamic funerals.
  • Support the family with food, assistance, or monetary help if appropriate.

Muslim Funeral Services in Singapore

Professional Muslim funeral service providers assist families by handling:

  • 24-hour body collection and transportation.
  • Ghusl (washing) and kafan (shrouding).
  • Coffin (keranda) and hearse arrangement.
  • Coordination with mosques for janazah prayer.
  • Burial arrangements at Pusara Aman Cemetery.
  • Female funeral services (for washing the female deceased) if needed.
  • Post-burial support, including doa sessions and tahlil prayers.

Having an experienced funeral provider ensures compliance with Islamic rites while easing logistical burdens.

How Much Does a Muslim Funeral Cost in Singapore?

The cost of a Muslim funeral in Singapore varies based on services. On average:

  • Standard Muslim funeral package: SGD 1,300 – SGD 3,500.
  • This includes washing, shrouding, coordinating with the mosque, transportation, and burial.

Some packages may also cover additional services such as:

  • Female ghusl team for women.
  • Tentage setup for void decks.
  • Post-burial doa and tahlil arrangements.

Muslim funerals are generally less costly compared to other traditions, as Islam emphasises simplicity and modesty.

Why Families Choose Muslim Funerals

  1. Fulfilment of religious duties according to Islamic law (Shariah).
  2. Simplicity and equality, where all Muslims are buried the same way.
  3. Spiritual comfort through Quranic recitation and prayers.
  4. Community support, as the Muslim community participates in janazah prayers.

Post-Funeral Muslim Practices

After burial, Muslim families continue to honour the deceased through:

  • Doa (supplications): Asking Allah for forgiveness and mercy for the deceased.
  • Tahlil prayers: Group recitations of the Quran and supplications, often held on the 3rd, 7th, 40th, and 100th day.
  • Charitable acts (sadaqah jariyah): Donations or acts of charity in the name of the deceased to benefit their afterlife.
  • Annual remembrance: Some families gather yearly to recite the Quran and doa for their loved ones.

Choosing the Right Muslim Funeral Package in Singapore

When selecting a Muslim funeral service provider, consider:

  • Experience and reputation – Are they trusted within the Muslim community?
  • Compliance with Islamic law – Do they follow proper rites of ghusl, kafan, and janazah?
  • Female washing team – For handling female deceased with dignity.
  • Clear pricing – Transparent packages with no hidden costs.
  • 24-hour availability – Muslim funerals are time-sensitive, so round-the-clock service is essential.

Muslim Funeral Customs Unique to Singapore

Singapore’s Muslim funerals have adapted to local needs:

  • Pusara Aman Cemetery – the only official Muslim burial ground in Singapore.
  • Void Deck Funerals – for family gatherings and prayers before burial.
  • Swift arrangements – most funerals take place within 24 hours, respecting Islamic teachings.
  • Community support networks – mosques and Muslim organisations often assist families in times of need.

Honouring Loved Ones with Muslim Funeral Services

A Muslim funeral in Singapore is a sacred duty rooted in Islamic faith and community responsibility. From the ghusl to the burial, every step reflects dignity, simplicity, and devotion to Allah’s command.

With the support of experienced funeral providers and the guidance of imams, families can honour their loved ones while fulfilling religious obligations. Muslim funerals in Singapore stand as a reminder of faith, unity, and the eternal journey towards the afterlife.

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It is usually completed within 24 hours, including washing, shrouding, janazah prayer, and burial.

Yes, non-Muslims may attend to offer condolences but should not participate in janazah prayers.

Dress modestly; women should cover their arms, legs, and preferably their hair.

No, cremation is prohibited in Islam.

At Pusara Aman Cemetery in Lim Chu Kang.