The Development of Muslim Funeral Management Cost Framework in Malaysia

In a Muslim funeral, there are funeral management costs that need to be allocated by the family of the deceased. It was noted that these costs increase from RM450 in year 2016 and the costs increase range from RM2,000 up to RM5,000 in year 2022. In addition, funeral management organisations charge costs differently, and there are fees that are perceived to be excessive. As a result, the family of the underprivileged deceased is unable to comply with the matter needed immediately, or they are driven into debt. Therefore, this study aims to explore the cost elements involved in Muslim funeral management and to understand the determinants in deciding the cost of funeral management by Muslim funeral management organisations. The findings of this study will provide a framework to guide relevant cost structure of Muslim funerals in Malaysia so that the family members of the deceased are well prepared, and the funeral management organisations do not overcharge the clients. The objective of this study is guided by three questions, namely: (i) what are the cost elements of an essential funeral service for Muslim funerals?; (ii) what are the determinants in deciding the cost of Muslim funeral management by funeral management organisations?; and (iii) how to develop the Muslim funeral management cost framework?. The theoretical framework of this study is based on the fundamental concepts of Muslim funeral management, the concept of social entrepreneurship and pricing theory. Due to the underdeveloped nature of the research phenomenon, the researcher chose a qualitative research methodology. Data collection for the study was done through semi-structured in-depth interviews with respondents from 17 funeral management organisations in Malaysia. The transcript of the interview was analysed thematically with the facilitation of ATLAS.ti software. The study found that the basic elements of Muslim funeral management costs include four main elements, namely washing, shrouding, transportation, and burial of the body. The study also found that there are economic and non-economic factors that influence the decision on the cost of Muslim funeral management. The new insights that emerge from this study are the mindset and worldview of the afterlife, collective communal obligations (Fard kifayah), generosity (ihsan) and consensus decision-making (musyawarah) as the final method ( in deciding the cost) that are critical in determining the cost of funeral management by funeral management organisations. In order to establish a framework for the cost of Muslim funeral management, important components must be in place, such as establishing a fair wage with the need for a contract (‘aqad), establishing a fair cost for funeral materials, and involving government religious authorities. This study contributes new knowledge about to the cost structure of Muslim funeral management. The study will serve as a guide for funeral management organisations to set appropriate rates for their services and ensure that the Muslim community receives efficient and transparent costs for funeral services. The study will also assist states and national Islamic religious authorities in formulating guidelines to coordinate costs for Muslim funeral management in Malaysia.