What I got from the film is that it explores the clash between modern city development and the age-old custom of honoring the deceased. It sheds light on the remarkable population density of Singapore and its implications. Interestingly, the film draws parallels between the coffins of the departed and the cramped living spaces of the city, highlighting them as personal sanctuaries. However, this narrative also unveils the pressing issue of limited space in Singapore, which poses challenges in providing adequate housing for both the living and the deceased. UID 3036207525 CHING Hau Sik Monique

The constant change of society leads to the constant change of the usage of the land. People are to compromise and to accommodate in the expense of their tradition. The demolition and the moving of the tomb could be seen as a demolition of tradition and history and the unavoidable gradual change of people’s value in the modern era. Convenience, comfort and efficiency become the priorities, religious ritual and traditional practice are being disposed as they are incompatible with the modern value.

The movie highlight the sarcasm of the departed ones unable to ‘rest in peace’, but are subjected to the redevelopment of the city. House is not only representing the physical columbarium that carry the ashes of the departed, but also, in an abstract manner, showing how the tradition of the people is impacted by the modern development.

It is hard to imagine the feeling of relocating your family members’ ashes because of government’s policy. I am glad that they are feeling positive despite the challenges, and their act would help 90% of Singapore’s population to have their own houses. The theme in this video shows how citizen’s attitude would influences the housing problem in Singapore. Tsang Shuk Yin