Navigating the task of publishing and finding obituaries in Singapore can be challenging, especially during emotionally taxing and uncertain times. Nonetheless, obituaries are an essential means of notifying friends and acquaintances about the passing of a loved one. They serve not only as a formal announcement but also as a tribute to the deceased, preserving their memory and legacy.
This comprehensive guide provides detailed information and clear instructions to alleviate some of the stress associated with this process. Whether you are looking to publish an obituary, find a previously posted one, or understand the differences between digital and print options, this guide covers all aspects. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions during this difficult time.
With this guide, we hope to make the process of handling obituaries as smooth and straightforward as possible, allowing you to focus on honouring the memory of your loved one.
Table of Contents
Side Note:
Celebrate the life of your loved one at the funeral with a Funeral Live Band.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an obituary?
An obituary, also known as a notice of death, formally announces a person's passing. It typically includes essential details such as the deceased's name, age, date and time of death, surviving family members, and information about the wake, service, and burial or cremation.
2. How do I write an obituary?
To write an obituary, include the following information:
A photo of the deceased
Full name and any aliases
Age at the time of passing
Date and time of death
Names of surviving family members
Location of the wake
Details of the service or prayer
Date and time of the cortège
Burial or cremation details
Contact information for surviving family members
3. Where can I publish an obituary in Singapore?
You can publish obituaries in local newspapers such as The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao or opt for digital platforms like Obits, which allow for both digital and print obituaries.
4. How do I publish an obituary using Obits?
To publish an obituary with Obits:
Visit Obits.sg.
Create an account.
Choose between a digital obituary, a print obituary, or both.
Upload the necessary details.
5. What are the unique features of Obits?
Obits offers several unique features:
RSVP System: Manage visitor attendance with a time slot booking system.
Place Finder: Save the exact location of your loved one's final resting place.
QR Code Memorial Plate: Install a QR code at the niche or tombstone, directing users to a Memorial Page where friends and family can share memories.
6. What is the cost of publishing an obituary in Singapore?
Costs vary depending on the platform:
Print Obituaries: Starting at approximately $790 in SPH newspapers.
Digital Obituaries: On Obits, a digital obituary costs $100, with optional add-ons like a QR Code Memorial Plate for $28 and a Memorial Page subscription for $5 per year.
7. What are the benefits of digital obituaries?
Digital obituaries are cost-effective, easily shareable via social media, and allow for more detailed information and interactive features such as comments and photos. They also offer longevity compared to print versions.
8. Why might I choose a print obituary?
Print obituaries are valuable for reaching older generations who may not be comfortable with digital technology. They also carry a sense of prestige and serve as a formal, tangible tribute.
9. How do I decide between digital and print obituaries?
Consider the following factors:
Digital Literacy: Assess the comfort level of the audience with digital technology.
Socioeconomic Status: Evaluate the prestige and recognition that may come with a print obituary, especially for prominent individuals.
10. How can I find an archived obituary in Singapore?
You can find archived obituaries using Obits' search function, which maintains a comprehensive archive of obituaries and memorials. Alternatively, for official records, you can access the Immigration and Checkpoint Authority of Singapore's public database of birth and death records for a fee of $40.
What is an Obituary, and How Do You Write One?
In Singapore, obituaries, also called notices of death, serve several important purposes: they formally announce an individual's passing, share details about their life, and provide information about funeral services for those who wish to attend.
Typically, an obituary in Singapore includes:
A photo of the deceased
Full name and any aliases
Age at the time of passing
Date and time of death
Names of surviving family members
Location of the wake
Details of the service or prayer
Date and time of the cortège
Burial or cremation details
Contact information for surviving family members
This information is essential for friends and acquaintances planning to pay their last respects.
Traditionally, obituaries are published in local newspapers such as The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao. However, digital obituaries have become increasingly popular due to their ease of sharing via social media and messaging apps. Digital obituaries offer the additional convenience of including links and maps directly on the page and are generally more cost-effective than print versions.
Services like Obits facilitate the simultaneous publication of both digital and print obituaries, making the process quick and efficient.
Writing Tips
When writing an obituary, consider the following tips to ensure it is respectful and meaningful:
Include personal anecdotes or notable accomplishments of the deceased.
Keep the tone respectful and compassionate.
Ensure all key details (names, dates, locations) are accurate and complete.
Example of an Obituary
Here is a brief example of what an obituary might look like:
In Loving Memory of John Tan
John Tan, aged 75, passed away peacefully on 20th May 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. The wake will be held at [Location] on [Date]. Funeral services will take place at [Location] on [Date]. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects. For more information, please contact [Contact Information].
How to Publish an Obituary in Singapore
Publishing an obituary in Singapore is made simple and efficient with Obits. This service allows you to create digital and print obituaries in major newspapers such as The Straits Times, Lianhe Zaobao, Berita Harian, and Tamil Murasu, ensuring wide reach and accessibility.
To use Obits:
Visit Obits.sg.
Create an account.
Choose between a digital obituary, a print obituary, or both.
Upload the necessary details.
Unique Features of Obits include:
RSVP System:
Manage visitor attendance with a time slot booking system to avoid large crowds.
Place Finder:
Save the exact location of your loved one's final resting place, making it easier for visitors to find and pay their respects.
QR Code Memorial Plate:
Install a QR code at the niche or tombstone, which directs users to a Memorial Page on Obits. This page allows friends and family to share memories and includes the exact location of the resting place.
By using Obits, you can efficiently handle the entire process of publishing an obituary. Whether you prefer a digital announcement, a print publication, or both, Obits' unique features ensure that the memory of your loved one is honoured in a respectful and accessible manner.
Cost of Publishing an Obituary in Singapore
Understanding the cost of publishing an obituary in Singapore is crucial for making informed decisions. The expenses can vary significantly depending on the platform and medium you choose.
Print Obituaries
Publishing an obituary in one of the local newspapers is typically the most expensive option. This is because you are essentially purchasing advertising space in a major publication. The cost for a print obituary in an SPH newspaper, such as The Straits Times or Lianhe Zaobao, starts at approximately $790. As the size of the print increases, so does the price.
Additionally, all SPH print obituaries come with a mandatory digital add-on.
Digital Obituaries
In contrast, posting a digital-only obituary is much more affordable. On Obits, the cost for a digital obituary is $100. There are optional add-ons available to enhance the obituary:
QR Code Memorial Plate: $28
Memorial Page Subscription: $5 per year
The Memorial Page includes features like the Place Finder and shared memories, which remain active as long as the subscription is maintained.
Other Digital Platforms
Alternatively, you may consider checking out other digital platforms to publish your obituaries. These online obituary services typically range from $100 to $300 and offer various unique features to differentiate themselves. Memories is one such website worth looking at.
At the end of the day, the key differences among these digital platforms lie in their unique features and added benefits, so it's best to browse them on your own and see what suits you the most.
Digital Versus Print Obituaries
When considering the cost, it might seem obvious to choose a digital obituary. Digital obituaries are not only more affordable, but they can also provide more detailed information, allow for interactive elements like comments and photos, and have the advantage of longevity compared to print.
However, it is important to consider the digital literacy of the audience. While sharing a digital obituary via WhatsApp or Facebook is straightforward, it might not be accessible for older folks and acquaintances who may not use smart devices. Many older individuals still rely on traditional media such as newspapers, radio, and public free-to-air TV for their information.
Additionally, there is a certain prestige associated with publishing an obituary in a local newspaper in Singapore. Print obituaries, especially the larger ones, are often reserved for influential individuals and can carry significant social recognition.
Therefore, the key factors to consider when deciding between a digital and print obituary are:
Digital Literacy: Consider the comfort level of the deceased's friends and family with digital technology.
Socioeconomic Status: Assess the prestige and recognition that may come with a print obituary, especially in cases involving prominent individuals.
Ultimately, both digital and print obituaries have their advantages, and the choice will depend on the preferences and needs of the deceased's loved ones.
How to Find an Archived Obituary in Singapore
Finding a previously posted obituary in Singapore, whether digital or print, is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps and resources you can use:
Using Obits
The most convenient method is to visit Obits and utilise their search function. This platform maintains a comprehensive archive of obituaries and memorials, including those posted digitally on their site and those published in local newspapers like The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao. The website is user-friendly and allows you to search by name, date, or publication.
Accessing Government Records
If you are unable to find an obituary through these platforms and need to verify if an individual has passed away, the Immigration and Checkpoint Authority of Singapore maintains a public database of birth and death records. Accessing this information involves a fee of $40. To use this service, follow these steps:
Visit the Online Birth and Death Extracts Application System.
Follow the instructions to submit your request.
Prepare to provide the necessary details and make the payment.
Conclusion
Publishing and finding obituaries in Singapore can be emotionally demanding, yet clearly understanding your options can alleviate much of the stress. Depending on your specific needs, both digital and print obituaries offer distinct benefits.
Choosing the appropriate obituary format is a personal decision that should reflect the preferences of the deceased and their family. This guide has been crafted to help you navigate these choices effectively, ensuring the obituary you publish honours the memory of your loved one appropriately. By understanding the various options and their benefits, you can make an informed decision that facilitates a fitting tribute during a time of remembrance.
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