Different funeral rites in Malaysia and the role of takaful in easing the burden of funerals
In life, death is a certainty. When death occurs, the funeral is a ritual that is practised by all and the rite is deeply rooted in the traditions and beliefs of an individual. In a multicultural nation like Malaysia, there exists a rich tapestry of religious and cultural practices. The same is true for the funeral rites of different cultures, religions, and traditions. In the face of such challenging times, takaful protection can play a vital role in offering some peace of mind for those in bereavement.
“Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return”
Al-Baqarah (2:156)
Estimated funeral costs in Malaysia
Funeral costs vary according to different religions and customs. On average, it can range from RM1,000 to RM20,000, depending on the type of service and the community involved. It never hurts to start preparing for funeral expenses.
1. Muslim funerals
Muslims’ funeral rites are generally more affordable compared to other religious and cultural practices. In Islam, funerals are conducted according to Shariah law of Islam such with simplicity and humility. Muslim funerals are also hastened, which keeps the cost relatively low.
Muslim graveyards in Malaysia are located on wakaf land – a plot of land that had been donated for religious use. Thus, affordability of a burial plot is a non-issue. The deceased’s family only covers the cost of funeral services such as transportation of the body, digging of the grave and miscellaneous cost such as a headstone. Financial support for the bereaved family is also available through khairat funds (funeral funds), which can cover a significant portion of the expenses. On average, a Muslim funeral cost about RM1,000.
2. Christian funerals
In general, Christian funerals take place over two nights, allowing time for the deceased’s family and friends to say their last goodbyes as the body is laid to rest in a church before the burial takes place. In Christianity, burials are preferred over cremations. In some cases, families would opt for cremation as this and the columbarium cost around half of a burial plot’s cost.
Christian funerals in Malaysia have a wide range of associated costs, with the cost of casket and burial plot making up a large portion of the cost of Christian funerals. Key elements of a Christian funeral include chur ch services such as fees for the use of church and officiants, coffin and embalming of the body and funeral services such as transportation and memorial service arrangements. Most Christian funerals would cost around RM20,000 on average.
3. Chinese funerals
Most Chinese Malaysians practise Buddhism or Taoism. Funerals in the Chinese community are often more elaborate, involving multiple ceremonies and longer duration compared to Muslim or Christian funerals. It is typically held over three to seven days, and the coffin will be placed at home or at a funeral parlour for family and friends to pay their last respects. Funeral rites of a Buddhist or Taoist include preparations for the deceased’s needs in the afterlife.
Chinese funeral rites are often the most expensive. Monk services, coffin and preparation of body, burial plot, wake and funeral services as well as cremation or burial are the common expenses in a Chinese funeral. Depending on the socioeconomic status of the deceased, a more elaborate funeral and coffin alone could cost up to hundreds of thousands. The average cost of a Chinese funeral is estimated to be around RM12,000 to RM40,000. Due to the high cost, some funeral homes offer instalment packages to allow individuals to start paying for their own funeral long before they actually need them.
4. Hindu funerals
In general, Hindus prefer cremation over burial for the deceased for religious reasons. In their customs, burial sites are usually reserved for infants and saints. Most would choose to keep the body of the deceased for one night at most. In general, Hindu funerals are more affordable than funerals of other cultures. The cost typically includes fees for rituals and rites, cremation cost, funeral services and post-funeral ties. On average, Hindu funerals cost between RM3,000 – RM5,000 without acquiring professional services and between RM8,000 to RM20,000 otherwise. Depending on the family’s preference and the extent of the rituals.
Role of Takaful in Funerals
At Ouch!, we understand the importance of being prepared for life’s uncertainties, and funerals are no exception. As funeral costs continue to rise, many may struggle to meet the financial obligations of a funeral. A takaful coverage provides a viable solution for managing these expenses ahead of time. From just RM4.13 a month, you can have peace of mind. Our death benefit starts from RM50,000, coupled with an extra 10% cash of sum covered for funeral expenses, payable within 24 hours of receiving a death certificate or police report. Getting covered under Ouch! Pusara Pro, our family takaful product, would help to ease the burden of funeral costs should anything unexpected happen to you. Our product is available for all, including non-Muslims. Although our product is based on shariah principles, our takaful coverage is not limited to Muslims only.
Funeral costs in Malaysia vary widely across different religions and cultures, reflecting the diverse practices that make up our nation’s rich heritage. Ouch! recognises the importance of these traditions and is committed to helping you prepare for them through our takaful plan. Leveraging on Ouch!’s takaful solutions means that when the time comes, your family can focus on carrying out the rites and honouring your memory without the added stress of financial concerns.
Find out more about Pusara Pro by clicking here or download the Ouch! Takaful mobile app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store today.
Disclaimer: The information in our blog articles and provided by our brand ambassadors/KOLs is for general insights only and not legally binding. We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee the information’s completeness or reliability. For legal matters, consult official documents or contact an authorised Ouch! representative.