Death in HK

A friend has recently died of natural causes in hospital in Hong Kong.


Some background: his assets were taken over by the Director of Social Services in HK a couple of years ago. Since then he has been living in a elderly home and his needs have been taken care of by government social workers. He had made no will to my knowledge. He has a elderly sister and nieces in the UK.


I suppose the hospital social worker will arrange a funeral and suchlike. If his sister would like something else done (remains transported to UK?), what rights has she got? Also, while all his assets were taken by the government, is that money kept in a separate account? I know he had several hundred thousand HK dollars at least and that money would not have all been used up. Does the government keep it, or will it go to his surviving closest relatives?


Thanks for any advice and insights.

Ok, another question.


If the remains (ashes) stay in Hong Kong, I presume about the only option is the Chinese style 'niche' in a columbarium? I've seen the FEHD gov site, and there is the 'Lamma Garden of Remembrance' - not really a garden but ok. I can't seem to find a place where ashes can be put underground,with a stone /plague put on the spot - anyone know?