KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 7 -- For the past two years, 42-year-old Ng Shin Yann has performed a solemn yet necessary role in providing closure for the departed souls of beloved pets by giving them a dignified farewell.

The role of a pet mortician - also known as pet funeral directors - was one of many new jobs born out of necessity amid the growth of the local pet funeral industry, spurred by rising pet ownership and personalised services.

While the industry here is still in its early stages, countries like Taiwan and China have seen it expand and mature rapidly - where personalised end-of-life care for deceased animals has already become the norm for owners willing to pay more for their companions.

Ng said her role as a pet funeral director...