In Singapore, the majority of people still choose columbarium niches for storing their loved ones’ ashes, despite a growing openness to scattering ashes. This tradition upholds strong cultural and family values. When selecting a columbarium niche, it’s essential to consider various factors.
Singapore offers both government-managed and private columbarium niches. Government-run columbaria, such as the Mandai Columbarium and Choa Chu Kang Columbarium, typically offer more affordable options.
Alternatively, there are around sixty private columbaria, including All Saints Memorial Chapel in Serangoon and Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery in Bishan, providing different services and amenities.
Understanding the costs and features of each type of niche is crucial when making a decision
When selecting a columbarium niche, budget is a crucial consideration. Financial constraints often influence the choice between government-managed and private facilities. Government-run columbaria, known for their appealing landscaping, are generally more affordable than private ones.
For example, a standard niche in a government facility costs $500, while a family niche costs $900. These niches are allocated sequentially. Choosing a specific niche location requires an additional fee of $250.
It’s important to note that these prices do not include the marble plaque, which varies in cost depending on its type and size.
An example of a niche marble plaque.
In comparison, private columbaria in Singapore offer niches ranging from $2,000 to $200,000, influenced by niche size and location. Prices vary significantly, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Additionally, many columbaria are organized into pillars with eight to nine levels, where each level often holds specific meanings according to traditional Chinese beliefs. These cultural factors can affect the choice of niche location within the columbarium.
1st and 2nd levels: Known as the “filial” levels because descendants must bow to pay their respects to their forebears.
3rd and 4th levels: Here are the “wealth” stages, as descendants may take a seated posture while praying. The arrangement of the niches aims to reflect traditional values in an organised manner.
6th and 7th levels: The “guardian” levels. Deceased put here are supposed to be watching out for their relatives. Families may choose these levels to symbolically ensure their loved ones’ continued protection over them.
8th and 9th levels: Called the “respect” levels, they signify great morals.
With 60-odd private columbaria in Singapore, there’s a larger possibility of securing the niche you desire at these facilities than at government-managed ones.
Still, the most sought-after level is certainly the 5th level, since it’s ideally positioned at the eye level. The symbolism attached to this level, along with its convenient height, makes it a popular choice for families.
Arrangement for any columbarium niche should preferably be done by the deceased’s next-of-kin with the required paperwork, including the digital death certificate. If the applicant is not the next-of-kin, a letter of approval is necessary.
These formalities are essential to ensure a smooth process. All the above may be a lot to manage and digest, but an experienced funeral director will be able to help you along the route.
At Funeral Services, we work with a trustworthy partner to help families with problems affecting specialised arrangement. A funeral director’s expertise can greatly alleviate the stress associated with these arrangements.
Visiting and maintaining a columbarium niche
Maintaining a columbarium niche typically involves little effort from you. Most facilities have caretakers to manage the upkeep of the niches and surroundings.
Some columbaria may charge a maintenance fee to keep the site clean and respectful. Additionally, private columbaria often provide prayer and worship services, ensuring your loved one is honored on important occasions.
Now that you have a better knowledge of columbarium niches, we’ll be discussing what you need to know about ancestral tablets next.
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