When a death occurs, especially involving a family member, there are several important initial steps that need to be taken to manage the funeral and official matters.
Guide: Initial Steps in the Event of Death in Malaysia
1. Confirm the Death
- Death in hospital/clinic
A medical officer will issue a death confirmation letter.
This document is required for burial arrangements and death registration at the National Registration Department (JPN).
- Death at home/outside hospital/clinic
Call 999 to confirm the death (if necessary).
Report to the police to obtain a burial permit.
If the death is suspicious, the case will be referred to the police for investigation and may involve a post-mortem.
2. Manage the Funeral
For Muslims – Contact the mosque funeral management team.
For non-Muslims – Funeral arrangements will follow their respective religious rites.
Updated date: 13/3/2026