IPOH: CLAN associations offering burial services in Perak are urged to come up with clear rates to avoid allegations of them overcharging for funeral services and cemetery plots.
State Non-Islamic Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon said the Registrar of Societies (RoS) had been flooded with complaints that the associations were not forthcoming with the charges.
“The complaints were mainly on the fact that there were no fixed rates and they were not transparent about their charges.
“I admit it will be impossible to set a fixed rate for the entire state as there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration like feng shui and the location of the burial plot,” he said.
Speaking to reporters after meeting representatives of the clan associations and the RoS, Dr Mah said the associations charge between RM300 and RM800 per plot.
“For those who can afford to pay more, the charge can go as high as RM8,000,” he said.
He added that these associations offered free services to the poor.
Dr Mah said associations should incorporate the rate of their charges into their constitution.
“At least if there are complaints, it will be easier for the RoS to investigate,” he added.
Up to June 30 this year, there are 30 clan associations registered with the state RoS that offer burial services.