Covid-19 and Cremation of Human Corpse During Disaster: National Security vs Religion Belief

Abstract

has become a pandemic worldwide. The number of deaths is increasing without a vaccine to stop its spread and has threatened Malaysia's national security. With the increased number of human fatalities due to COVID-19, cremation may be the final solution to prevent the spread from dead bodies as the virus remains on the body after death. However, religion has different perspectives in dealing with the cremation of the dead body. Malaysia is a Muslim majority country but its citizens also consisted of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and others. This study will look at the acceptance of Malaysians on the issue of cremating dead bodies during disasters. A qualitative approach was used with respondents answering questionnaires. Analysis of legislation related to disaster management of human corpses was also conducted. Results show that the majority of the respondents disagreed with the cremation of the dead body because of their religion and they believe that there must be a better alternative to deal with the dead body infected by COVID-19.