Uptake of Inland Ash Scattering and Sea Scattering in Past Three Years, and Cross-agency Efforts in Strengthening Public Acceptance on Alternative Cremation Options
Ministry of Sustainability and the EnvironmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the take-up rates of inland and sea ash scattering over the past three years and cross-agency efforts to enhance public acceptance of alternative cremation options, raised by Mr David Hoe. Minister Grace Fu Hai Yien stated that inland ash scattering grew from approximately 2,000 cases (9% of cremations) in 2023 to 2,200 (10%) in 2024 and 2,500 (12%) in 2025. She noted that while the National Environment Agency (NEA) does not track take-up rates for sea scattering at its designated site, it is exploring ways to encourage the practice. Minister Grace Fu Hai Yien explained that NEA actively engages other agencies, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to raise awareness while respecting religious preferences. Lastly, public education and information on ash scattering are provided through the NEA website and the My Legacy@LifeSG portal.
Transcript
21 Mr David Hoe asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) what are the annual take-up rates of inland ash scattering and sea scattering over the past three years, including their respective shares of total cremation cases; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider strengthening public education and engagement with the Ministry of Health and relevant agencies to improve understanding and acceptance of these options.
Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: The National Environment Agency (NEA) has been offering inland ash scattering as an option for cremated ashes since May 2021. Since its introduction, demand has grown steadily, with the number of scatterings rising from about 2,000 in 2023 to about 2,200 in 2024, and about 2,500 in 2025. These figures represent approximately 9%, 10% and 12% of total cremations in each respective year.
Scattering of ashes at sea is currently offered by funeral service providers at a designated site about 3.2 kilometres east of the Raffles Lighthouse. NEA currently does not track the take-up rates of sea scattering. Nonetheless, NEA is exploring ways to encourage sea scattering. More information will be shared in due course.
NEA works actively with other agencies, religious leaders and community stakeholders to raise awareness of ash scattering as a post-cremation option, while respecting the preferences and religious practices of the deceased and their families. More information on post-death matters, including ash scattering options, can be found on NEA's website and My Legacy@LifeSG, a one-stop Government portal for information on end-of-life planning, estate settlement and funeral arrangements.