Singapore Ushers in Virtual Wedding Ceremonies Amid COVID‑19
In a move that could make the pandemic a little less painful for newlyweds, Singapore is poised to let couples tie the knot from the comfort of their homes. If Parliament greenlights the new Bill, civil and Muslim marriages could be solemnised over video call, sparing the need for a physical meet‑up at the Registry of Marriages.
What the Bill Gives Couples
- Virtual ceremonies for couples where at least one partner is a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.
- Only Singapore‑issued documents are accepted to guarantee authenticity.
- All participants (couple, witnesses, and, for Muslim weddings, the wali) must be physically in Singapore to sign the statutory declaration.
- During the actual ceremony, everyone involved must physically be present in the country.
Desmond Lee, the Minister for Social and Family Development, tossed the idea into the digital space on Facebook saying, “Even in a crisis, the love story must go on. We’ll make sure Covid‑19 doesn’t put a damper on joyful beginnings.”
When Could You Say “I Do” Virtually?
If the Bill passes, the first virtual wedding could happen by mid‑May, well before the pandemic’s end. Minister Masagos Zulkifli signed off on the move for Muslim marriages, noting that the Office of Mufti has confirmed the practice complies with Islamic guidelines, as long as all the usual conditions for a legal nikah are met.
Not Everyone Is Ready for a Screenshot
Medical resident Nicholas Chan (27) said his fiancee will likely keep their wedding in person—at least after the circuit breaker. “We’ve already planned our dream day, and a livestream just doesn’t have the same romantic vibe. If we’re fighting for space under the pandemic, maybe we’ll lean on the virtual option, but for now, a quiet dinner after the restrictions lift is on the table.”
All in all, as the virus continues to shuffle plans, Singapore is ready to help new couples celebrate—virtually if needed—while keeping the tradition and legitimacy intact.
Article first published in The Straits Times—reproduction requires permission.
