NEA urges responsible burning during Qing Ming after fires break out at Bukit Brown Cemetery
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The NEA said the fires at Bukit Brown Cemetery were likely started by an unattended lit joss stick or burning joss paper.
PHOTO: NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT AGENCY/FACEBOOK
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SINGAPORE – The National Environment Agency (NEA) has urged the public to practise responsible burning when offering prayers, after a few fires broke out at Bukit Brown Cemetery during Qing Ming.
In a Facebook post on April 2, the NEA said the fires were likely started by an unattended lit joss stick or joss paper burning.
Dry vegetation, hot weather and strong winds might have contributed to the spread of fire, the agency added.
The NEA said the fires pose a safety risk to visitors and damage the environment.
When burning joss paper, members of the public should not leave the papers unattended or let them scatter, said the NEA.
It added that joss paper should not be burned on the ground or in large quantities to minimise fly ash and smoke.
Food offerings should not be left on the ground after prayers because they attract pests, the agency said.
“Let’s make this Qing Ming period a meaningful and safe experience for everyone by adopting responsible burning practices when offering prayers,” the NEA said in its Facebook post.
Qing Ming, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, is typically observed by ethnic Chinese around the world, and is devoted to remembering and honouring the dead.
In 2026, it falls on April 5.
The NEA on Feb 25 identified 11 key dates between March 21 and April 19 when larger crowds are expected at cemeteries and columbaria.
The agency encouraged members of the public to visit Choa Chu Kang Cemetery, Choa Chu Kang Columbarium, Mandai Columbarium and Yishun Columbarium on off-peak days instead.
To cater to the anticipated demand, all three columbaria will be open for 24 hours from March 21 to April 19.
