There are situations in other countries where the deceased of COVID-19 patients are not managed in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) set by the country's Health Agency. There are incidents in certain countries where the deceased, although managed according to the COVID-19 SOP, was later unwrapped and kissed by the family members. This has resulted in the entire family members and community being infected with the virus.

Scientific studies and post mortem forensic reports have shown that the remains of COVID-19 patients, including body fluids may still be infectious. Therefore, Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) has developed specific SOP to manage the deceased of COVID-19 patients to curb the spread of the pandemic.

For Muslims, discussions on the SOP of handling the deceased of COVID-19 patients have been carried out between forensic specialists from MOH and representatives from Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), whereas for non-Muslims, discussions have been carried out with respective religious authorities instead. A guideline on handling the deceased of COVID-19 patients has been developed as the outcome from these discussions.

Family members are strictly forbidden to handle the deceased of COVID-19 patients, instead the deceased shall solely be managed by the MOH. Only one family member is allowed to view the body for identification. The family member must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and stand at a minimum of 1 meter from the body. Kissing and touching of the deceased is strictly prohibited. All deceased must be first wrapped with one layer of white linen followed by 2 layers of “body bags”. The outermost layer of the “body bag” must be wiped or sprayed with disinfectant 0.5% sodium hypochlorite. Family members are prohibited from opening the sealed coffin/ body bag.

Confirmed COVID-19 Muslim deceased shall not be cleansed with water (mandi jenazah) but replaced by tayammum over the outermost body bag. The person who handle the deceased are required to wear PPE and wash their hands after performing tayammum to prevent risk of infection. The number of individuals performing the funeral prayers should be limited and physical distancing of at least 1 meter apart should be practised at all time. Burial should be carried out as soon as possible under the supervision of MOH representatives. Only immediate family members are allowed to attend the funeral and are required to leave the cemetery as soon as the ceremony is over.

For non-Muslim deceased, any ritual body preparation shall be kept at minimum and performed over the outermost layer of the “body bag”. The deceased should be immediately cremated or buried in accordance to their respective religions.

Upon paying the last respects to the deceased, all SOPs, including physical distancing, wearing of face mask and hand washing should be strictly adhered under the supervision of MOH representatives.

Datuk Dr. Hj. Rohaizat Bin Hj. Yon
Deputy Director-General of Health (Medical)
Ministry of Health Malaysia