Latest news with #funeralservices
CNA
4 days ago
- General
- CNA
New Mandai crematorium and ash-scattering garden to open on Aug 15
SINGAPORE: A new crematorium and ash-scattering garden will open in Mandai on Aug 15, the National Environment Agency (NEA) said on Monday (Jul 28). Located next to the existing Mandai Crematorium and Columbarium complex, the new Mandai North Crematorium will use automated guided vehicles to transport coffins and lockers for ash collection. It has six service and viewing halls and can house 18 cremators, but will begin operations with three halls equipped with nine cremators. It will start with four cremation services daily and ramp up progressively in the coming months. NEA said it will fit out the remaining halls and add the additional cremators to meet an anticipated increase in demand for cremations in future. For comparison, the existing crematorium, which opened in 2004, has four halls and 12 cremators. The crematorium and garden span about 2.4ha, slightly more than half the size of the Padang. Annual resident deaths are expected to increase from about 25,000 in 2024 to around 40,000 by 2040, NEA said. Meanwhile, the demand for inland ash scattering has increased from around 900 applications in 2021 to over 2,300 in 2024. 'The new crematorium will provide additional cremation capacity, and the (Garden of Serenity) will provide an additional option for the inland scattering of ashes,' said NEA. 'They will enable us to continue serving the nation's needs in the years ahead.' Bookings for cremation slots will open on Aug 9, and the crematorium and garden will be open daily. The garden will be open from 9am to 5.30pm except when it is closed for maintenance. Singapore also has two private crematoriums, but NEA handles more than 90 per cent of cremations. ASH-SCATTERING GARDEN The Garden of Serenity is the second inland ash-scattering garden in Singapore, after the Garden of Peace opened in 2021 in Choa Chu Kang. Ashes can also be scattered at sea or stored in columbariums or at home. The Garden of Serenity, which is within the new Mandai North facility, has four ash-scattering lanes in the shape of a leaf. Granite boulders that were excavated during its construction, which started in 2017, are used for seating along the lanes. The garden also features a pond and lush foliage, meant to create a peaceful and dignified environment. Each lane in the garden is named after a flower and is around 10m long. Ashes can be scattered on pebbles, which sit atop granite chippings and soil. Water sprinklers or canisters can be used to help the ashes filter through the layers. Religious ceremonies or rites, including the burning of joss sticks, leaving of food offerings and playing of music will not be allowed. However, fresh flowers can be placed on racks around the garden. At 750 sqm, the Garden of Serenity is much smaller than the Garden of Peace, which is 9,500 sqm in size. NEA said that accumulated "ash soil" will periodically be transferred from the Garden of Serenity in Mandai to a designated location in the Garden of Peace in Choa Chu Kang to ensure that people can continue to use the smaller garden. The fee for ash-scattering at the gardens is S$320. AUTOMATION, QR CODES Mandai North Crematorium will make use of technology to ensure service reliability, including through the use of automated guided vehicles to transport coffins. At the existing crematorium, staff members push a trolley carrying the coffin. Funeral service providers will receive a cremation permit with a QR code, which must be scanned outside the service hall to ensure that the casket is at the right hall at the right time. The automated guided vehicle and screen outside the service hall will also reflect the deceased's name, the date and the time, before the casket is unloaded from the hearse. A QR code on the automated vehicle will be used for verification before the coffin is placed into a cremator. Attendees will then need to be seated before the automated guided vehicle transports the casket to the front of the service hall. The service halls feature slopes instead of steps, to improve accessibility for wheelchair users. At the new facility, the viewing hall – where mourners watch the casket being transported toward the cremators – is located directly in front of the service hall. This is unlike the existing Mandai Crematorium, where the service halls are a distance away from the viewing halls. NEA said the building layout was designed to minimise walking distances, especially for elderly visitors. "A one-way visitor circulation flow caters to back-to-back cremation services, minimising the need for arriving and departing groups to cross paths. This arrangement provides a degree of privacy for each group of visitors and facilitates a sense of closure for the bereaved," the agency said. The new waiting halls at Mandai North Crematorium are also enclosed with glass panels to provide more privacy to families. When the cremated remains are ready, an ash collection permit with a QR code will be sent via email. The registration process will involve verifying the applicant's identity, before a queue number is provided and an ash-sorting room is assigned. When the queue number is called, family members can scan a QR code to unlock a locker containing the ash box. There are three walls of lockers, and the lockers open one at a time for each wall. Families can perform final rites in the ash-sorting room. Each room is equipped with a table, a bench and a wash basin.
Khaleej Times
01-07-2025
- Climate
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Portable ACs for mourners at Al Ain cemeteries during extreme heat
As summer temperatures soar to a scorching 50°C in the UAE, authorities are ramping up efforts to ease the discomfort for residents in the country. To help alleviate the heat of attendees during funeral services, Al Ain City Municipality has provided portable air conditioners at cemeteries. The coolers have been placed in key cemeteries across Al Ain, including Al Sarooj Cemetery, to provide relief to grieving families. This initiative aims to ensure a more comfortable and respectful environment, reaffirming the Municipality's commitment to community well-being and the quality of its public services. An Emirati citizen recently shared his experience on Instagram during a visit to Al Sarooj Cemetery, where he was surprised to see the coolers. "I went to visit my father's grave and noticed several large air coolers. I initially thought the family of a deceased person had arranged them," he said. "But the guard explained that the coolers were provided by Al Ain Municipality, free of charge, to make it easier for people to bear the heat during funeral prayers," he added. The visitor expressed his appreciation for the gesture, stating, "Thank God for the blessings of the Emirates and the generosity of its wise leadership." Other summer-related initiatives The UAE addresses heat-related issues with initiatives like the midday break, which prohibits outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day. This break, introduced to protect workers during the country's peak summer heat, will be from 12.30pm to 3pm daily for three months until September 15. There are nation-wide campaigns focused on heat exhaustion awareness and worker safety, including free health checkups and educational programmes. Several organisations are going the extra mile to help blue-collar workers this summer. They are offering free classes and health campaigns to ensure that these workers have a safe and productive season. Over 10,000 air-conditioned rest stations will serve delivery service workers across the UAE throughout the peak summer period. Delivery service workers can access the nearest rest stations through interactive maps available on the apps. Under the blazing sun, hundreds of construction workers pause their daily grind to receive something simple yet deeply appreciated — cold water, juice, and frozen treats. As part of the Al Freej Fridge humanitarian campaign, now in its second edition, thousands of bottles of water, juice, and ice cream are handed out to workers at the massive construction site, offering not just physical relief from the heat but a moment of care and recognition.
Associated Press
24-06-2025
- General
- Associated Press
Ang Brothers Funeral Services: Guiding Families to the Right Farewell Choices in Singapore
Planning a Loved One's Funeral Preparing your households Younger Youngsters for Halloween It can be problematic to realize exactly how to help young kids have a good time at Halloween, but it is valued at the trouble. At a time of mourning, families are forced to decide quickly but thoughtfully how to honor their loved ones in a way,which is reverent and dignified. Selecting the right funeral service provider can offer some peace of mind, help lighten this burden, and provide a service that is filled with compassion and professionalism that respects all traditions, arrangements, and personal wishes. In a multiracial country such as Singapore, burials are a blend of religious and cultural customs. This means choosing the right provider is even more critical. Whether the funeral you're organizing is in anticipation of the death or following the death of your loved one, by knowing what to look for in service providers you can be certain to make the right choice. Read on for an overview of what to consider when selecting the best Funeral Services Singapore has to offer, so that you can feel you're making the right decision for you in such a difficult time. Understanding Funeral Services in Singapore In Singapore, funeral services run the gamut from the simplest direct cremation to the most elaborate celebrations of life spanning several days with religious components, professional rituals and personal touches alike. Providers frequently have packages for different religions — Buddhist, Taoist, Christian, Catholic, Hindu, Free Thinker services are common to see. A funeral is an integrated part of a typical burial, and usually includes deceased collection, embalming or preparation of the body, casket selection, wake arrangements, scheduling of religious rites, obituary preparations, transportation, etc. and the subsequent burial or cremation. Further assistance could be found in grief counselling, repatriation and after-funeral rites. Due to the range and diversity of services, provider selection is a matter of pragmatic and cultural relevance. Assessing Your Needs and Preferences Before you start looking, it's helpful to think through your family's specific needs and wants. Religious denomination, cost, anticipated guest count and preferred location also some of the factors that will contribute to your decision. For instance, the family of deceased who are adhering to Buddhist or Taoist customs may ask for wakes that last for several days accompanied with a certain chanting and offerings. Some might just want a quiet, nonreligious cremation. Knowing your needs ahead of time will simplify the process of finding a provider who matches your values and preferences. Reputation and Experience of the Provider In the funeral services field experience and reputation is everything. Reputable companies that have been in the industry for years will be better equipped to navigate tricky arrangements with grace. Look for businesses praised for their professionalism, their sympathy and their focus on detail. Delivery of service Online reviews, testimonials, and word of mouth referrals can provide a window into the provider's quality of service. In Singapore, some agencies are also supported or advocated by religious groups, community leaders, and temples. Inquire as to how long the provider has been in business and if they specialize in specific types of funerals. A local provider will be better able to handle every part of the ceremony considering cultural customs and religious observances. Licensing and Regulatory Compliance All Singapore funeral directors must adhere to guidelines implemented by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and other respective agencies. Being able to verify that a provider has the proper licensing and is operating safely and legally is important. Ask if the funeral director is licensed and if the business has permits for embalming, transport of bodies and for conducting services at wake facilities. Range of Funeral Packages and Services Offered A reliable provider will indeed offer several options to accommodate personal preferences, religious convictions, and financial capacities. That includes basic packages for direct cremation to full services that range from multi-day wakes to religious services. Carefully read each package included as well— Will the prices you're quoted include a casket, the hearse, set up of the altar, religious items, or will these be separate? Can you change or vary the elements in each package? Transparent offerings help families choose only what they truly need and avoid unnecessary costs. Consider too whether the provider includes post-funeral rites, such as the 49th day prayer in Buddhist ceremonies or memorial masses for Christians. These services are important to many families and must be scheduled in advance. Customization and Personalization Options Each life is unique and funerals should capture the personality and values of the person. A great funeral service provider should have customization features so families can properly celebrate the life of the deceased in a way that means something to them. A photo display, personalized floral bouquets, video tributes or updating with weblink in order that the wake can be viewed live by family members abroad, can all help eliminate that sense of distance. Some offer printed memorabilia, such as bookmarks or prayer cards with the deceased's picture and a favorite quote or prayer. Inquire whether a prospective provider is willing to accommodate special requests, and has experience with distinct cultural or religious practices that may be unrelated to their standard offerings. Transparency in Pricing Price is one of the most significant — and confusing — factors in choosing professional funeral services. Families should be provided with itemized quotes for all packages and services. The better of these providers do not add on hidden fees or markups for necessary services, and are transparent about the cost of your care. When you compare providers, ensure the quotes are for the same thing. Some may seem cheaper, but do not include important items, such as transportation or an honorarium for the monks. Be very meticulous about what that does and does not cover, as well as upcharges. Good providers are going to be able to be open about costs and be able to work within your budget and even a stretching budget offering other options as well as not losing respect and quality. Availability and Response Time Funerals typically have to be planned quickly — that is the nature of what we are dealing with, particularly when a death occurs without warning. Punctuality and accessibility are important qualities of a funeral service provider. Look for a provider who can be available around the clock and can dispatch their people quickly in the case of a death. Ask about their response time and their ability to arrive at the hospital or home to retrieve the body, as well as when they can start the organizing. Hiccups can cause undue pressure at an already trying time. Seek out providers that have dedicated personal consultants or funeral managers who guide you from start to finish. Having one contact person proves helpful in coordinating work and avoiding confusion. Empathy and Professionalism of Staff Funeral directors and their employees are supposed to have the utmost empathy, respect, and professionalism. They're not just doing a job — they're serving as emotional bedrocks for grieving families. From the moment they call, to saying goodbye to a loved one, the provider is required to be patient, culturally aware, and emotionally intelligent. It should be the role of staff to support bereaved families to move through this time without pressure or rush. Facilities and Wake Venues The experience at the wake has a lot to do with the quality of and convenience of venues. There are many funeral service companies in Singapore which operate their own halls in funeral parlours and/or void decks of HDBs. Take a tour, if you can. Think about the cleanliness, airflow, seating and access as well as parking details. For religious wakes, check that there is a place for prayer or altars or offerings. Some venues have built-in speakers, air conditioning, toilets, and various even have catering available. Ask the provider if you can host the wake at home, in the void deck or in a funeral hall, and if they take care of all the required permits and setup. Post-Funeral Services and Support Grief doesn't stop at the funeral, and many families appreciate providers who remain available afterward. This might include assistance in registering death certificate, facility for ashes collection, or management of religious/ancestor worship like 7th day or 100th day services. Some companies even team up with grief counselors and provide resources in order to help families process their feelings in a healthy and positive way. It can make a difference to have a provider who knows the full arc of mourning. Conclusion There is more to finding the right provider for Funeral Services Singapore than simply comparing prices. It's finding the team that is going to honor the cultural connection, hold space for all the emotions, and treat your loved one in the way that you want their body to be treated on their journey out. From a person's reputation and religious knowledge to personalized services and clear pricing, every element impacts the quality of the funeral experience. The extra time to make the right choice leads to a respectful farewell and peace of mind for your family in their time of need. One of the most reputable and well-known funeral service company in Singapore is Ang Brothers Funeral Services. Renowned for his or her compassion, cultural sensitivity, and personal and professional integrity, they have been assisting families during the most difficult periods of their lives with dignity and respect. For more details, or to speak with their caring staff, go to today. Media Contact Company Name: Ang Brothers Funeral Services Contact Person: Ang Brothers Email: Send Email Phone: +65 9871 8388 City: Singapore Country: Singapore Website: Press Release Distributed by To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Ang Brothers Funeral Services: Guiding Families to the Right Farewell Choices in Singapore
CBC
23-06-2025
- Health
- CBC
Family feels 'a lot of peace' after woman receives end-of-life aquamation service in Manitoba
The family of a woman who recently became the second person in Manitoba to have a water cremation said they feel at peace knowing that they could give her the burial she wanted just weeks after it became available in the province. Elizabeth Crossley said her mother, Elizabeth Crossley Sr., had been talking about alkaline hydrolysis — or aquamation — since she first heard about it a few years ago. Instead of traditional fire cremation, aquamation is an eco-friendly alternative that uses a hot water and alkali solution to break down the body's proteins and sugars, speeding up the natural decomposition process until only the bones remain. Crossley said her mother was instantly drawn to the process and started discussing it with family, friends and medical providers. "I guess she identified more with the water process. She loved water and I guess her soul just liked the idea of that better," Crossley said. "I feel a lot of peace knowing we could give her what she wanted." When Crossley's mother died a few weeks ago at the age of 65, the service had just become available in Manitoba. Had her mother died sooner, Crossley said the family would have had to travel out of province to ensure she received the end-of-life care she wanted. Saskatchewan was the first Canadian province to legalize aquamation in 2012, followed by Ontario in 2014. Headingley-based funeral and aquamation services company Tillwell Inc. got its final licence approvals to start operating just a few weeks ago. It is the first and only company in Manitoba to offer the service. "Had she died three weeks sooner, we would have been shipping her to Saskatchewan to have it done. So good timing, I guess," Crossley said. Crossley Sr. was just the second person to have an aquamation service in Manitoba. "Death is a personal experience and people ought to choose the form of final disposition that means the most to them," said Dwayne Till, CEO and founder of Tillwell. Till said aquamation is a "much gentler, way less energy intensive" process compared to traditional flame cremation that uses machines that run at up to 1,000 C for several hours. Till said the deceased person's body is put inside a hot water tank, where the alkali-water solution is heated to just under 100 C and circulated over the body for about 18 hours, using propellers in the back of the tank. The fluid is then sent through the sewage system, where it is treated. "You can actually repurpose some of the fluid that's left behind," Till said, adding he would eventually like to see it used by local farmers as a natural fertilizer, if provincial regulators allow. The bones are then dried and processed into a powder and returned to the deceased's loved ones, much like ashes after flame cremation. Except this powder — or "mineral remains," as Till's company calls them — has a neutral pH level and is safe to return to the earth. aquamation with a tree ceremony and burial. Crossley's family decided on a tree ceremony. "My mom, she always said she wanted to be a tree," Crossley said.
Daily Mail
18-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Older people sick of lonely and vulnerable stereotype - and feel 'bombarded' by TV ads for funerals, study finds
Older people feel they are 'bombarded' by adverts for funeral services, care homes and mobility aids, a new study by the advertising watchdog has found. The elderly are fed up with being 'reduced to outdated stereotypes' depicting them as lonely and vulnerable in TV ads, according to the poll by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA). More than a third of the UK population believe that older people are 'negatively stereotyped' in ads which depict them as 'lonely, purposeless or powerless'. And Brits are concerned about how ads are targeted at them, with people aged 55 and over feeling 'bombarded' by promotions for 'funeral or cremation services, life insurance and care homes', especially during daytime television. Beauty ads that suggest people have to 'fight' ageing were singled out by the public as 'potentially harmful', in particular for the 'harm to the self-esteem of women of all ages' they can cause, the poll of more than 4,000 Uk adults found. One male respondent aged between 65 and 74 told researchers: 'I think [ads about looking young] are very patronising. It's saying that you should admire to look young when frankly, I embrace my wrinkles and bald head.' People of all ages told researchers they wanted to see more 'authentic and realistic' portrayals of older people, avoiding depictions of OAPs 'always being wealthy or grumpy', for example. The study says: 'While Britain may have an ageing population, growing older today looks very different from a generation or two ago. 'Older people are not only living longer, but they're also continuing to lead full, active lives, contributing to workplaces, families, communities, and the economy for longer. 'But people in our study told us that too often, advertising paints a very different and outdated picture.' The ASA has previously banned ads that were 'likely to cause offence on the grounds of age' - including a billboard ad for electronic cigarettes depicting an older woman and younger man that suggested this was socially unacceptable. However the independent body, which regulates all forms of advertising in the UK, said that while it was not currently proposing new rules, it had carried out the research to better inform businesses of public opinion around portrayals of ageing. Kam Atwal, research lead at the ASA, said: 'As a society, we're living longer, richer, and more varied lives. Our research reveals that some of today's portrayals of older people in advertising are not being received positively, and that the public want ads to better reflect the varied lives older people lead today.'
