The well-loved Archbishop led the 200,000-strong Catholic community here from 1977 to 2000, and, in that time, clearly touched many lives, going by the emotional crowd. At least seven church leaders from around the region and 120 priests took part in the service.

After a two-hour mass, led by Archbishop Nicholas Chia, about 200 mourners followed his hearse to Mandai crematorium.

In line with his wishes, his family says Archbishop Emeritus Yong's ashes will be placed at the Carmelite Monastery in Bukit Teresa.

SEE SINGAPORE