Introduction

In a stunning manifestation of duality, Zainab Ash Shughra Amer, a dedicated concierge by day, transforms into Singapore's first certified Muslim female embalmer by night. The 39-year-old leads a life filled with contrasting responsibilities that highlight her remarkable skills and resilience.

Day Job vs Night Work

By day, Zainab manages client relations at her firm, expertly attending to various requests. However, as night falls, she enters a somber realm marked by the unyielding silence of a mortuary, where she handles the deceased with grace and respect. "Sorry," Zainab often murmurs to the bodies she prepares, understanding that her words are mere courtesy to souls that can no longer hear.

A Unique Burden

Zainab, who is currently the only Muslim woman embalmer in Singapore and one of the few in Southeast Asia, provides services not only for her fellow Muslims but also for non-Muslims. Embalming is typically prohibited in Islamic practices, but exceptions arise when a foreign Muslim individual passes away and needs to be repatriated to their homeland. In her year of practice, Zainab has encountered challenging scenarios, such as handling amputated body parts or embalming multiple bodies in a single night.

Ethical Commitment

With a strong commitment to ethical practices, Zainab emphasizes that every interaction with the deceased is conducted with care. "We must always protect the dignity of the deceased," she states. This dedication motivates her to provide services that uphold Islamic principles, ensuring modesty is preserved throughout the embalming process.

The Journey to Embalming

Zainab's journey into this unusual profession began serendipitously when a friend suggested she explore embalming. Despite initial hesitation, she conducted thorough research and resolved to pursue this unique vocation to assist grieving families, especially those dealing with the complexities of repatriation for their loved ones who die abroad.

Training and Accreditation

Her decision was not just a career change; it was a commitment to the community. Zainab trained in the Philippines, as no institutions in her home country offer relevant courses. Overcoming the hurdles in attaining her accreditation in Singapore became a testament to her persistence, especially when most funeral homes were reluctant to accept a Muslim embalmer. Ultimately, Singapore Funeral Services (SFS) offered her the opportunity and support to fulfill her practical training requirements.

Facing Stigmas

The stigmas surrounding embalming within the Muslim community pose additional challenges for Zainab. While she acknowledges the reasons for resistance—primarily rooted in traditional beliefs—she educates the public that embalming can be crucial for repatriating deceased individuals from countries with limited burial options for foreigners.

Cultural Sensitivity in Death Care

“It's vital to understand how cultural differences can impact end-of-life decisions,” she explains. Many countries, including South Korea and Japan, do not accommodate Muslim burials, hence the need for embalming arises.

Logistical Challenges

Zainab also faces logistical challenges, including high costs that can reach over S$6,000 (approximately RM19,800) for repatriation. These expenses may deter families from opting for embalming, leading them to choose alternatives that may not align with their values.

Advocacy through Social Media

Alongside her work, Zainab uses her social media platforms to dispel myths about embalming and promote awareness in her community. Despite facing disapproval, especially from older generations, she remains resolute in her mission to inform and educate.

Profound Experiences

Zainab's stories of her experiences are profound and often emotional. She recalls instances that tested her composure, including a remarkable encounter with the body of a pilot who had perished in a plane crash. Handling such sensitive cases provides her with insight into the fragility of life and the complexities surrounding death.

Empathy and Healing

Despite the formidable emotional toll her work can exert, Zainab’s practice is grounded in empathy and healing. She strives to make a difference in the community, all while raising her five children, whom she hopes will continue her legacy one day.

Conclusion

Zainab Ash Shughra Amer stands as a remarkable figure, forging a new path for Muslim women in death care. Through her dedication, she not only serves the deceased with dignity but also redefines societal expectations and promotes a deeper understanding of end-of-life care in her community.