Search
Close this search box.
Categories
Close Up

Celebrating 25 years of service to the nation

DAC (NS) Mohammad Nurizham Shah Bin Abdullah reflects on how the Singapore Police Force has evolved and what keeps him going in his service.

TEXT: KEENAN PEREIRA

PHOTOS: DAC (NS) MOHAMMAD NURIZHAM SHAH BIN ABDULLAH

A quarter of a century: That’s how long DAC (NS) Mohammad Nurizham Shah Bin Abdullah has served in the Singapore Police Force (SPF) — first in Jurong Police Division and now as the NS Commander of the Public Transport Security Command (TransCom). During his time in TransCom, he has seen countless NSmen step up to serve their country as well, with the unit holding one of the highest numbers of NSmen within the SPF.

“As a NS-Heavy Unit, comprising about 80% full-time NS officers, this unique proportion means that TransCom is well-placed to showcase the values which NSmen can bring to the Force,” explained DAC (NS) Shah, 48. “In some ways, the National Service officers run the entire operation,” he added. The regulars play a supervisory role, while most of the NS officers are deployed for foot patrol and is a common sight at Singapore’s public transport networks, from MRT stations to bus interchanges.

There are also other vocations for the NSmen in TransCom. A handful of them are deployed in the TransCom’s Provost division, which maintains discipline among officers. Some of them serve as trainers within TransCom, equipping fellow men with self-defence and security knowledge. There is also a team that provides administrative support to ensure operations run smoothly, as well as a Community Policing Unit which works closely with members of the public to ensure the success of initiatives such as the Riders-on-Watch (ROW) that taps on commuters to deter and detect crimes.

FINDING THE GOOD

Taken before the Covid-19 outbreak, DAC (NS) Shah is briefing his team during a National Day deployment in August 2019.

Regardless of vocation, DAC (NS) Shah has a simple mantra for his men in maximising their time during their in-camp training (ICT): Positivity. “I look at ICT as a way of looking to improve ourselves,” he said. “It would be a shame if people booked in and just switched their minds off because there’s so much to gain from ICT. Coming back for In-Camp Training also remind my officers of their obligation towards national defence and protecting essential service that serves the community.”

Top of the list is physical fitness. He added that being active in NS has helped him maintain his fitness through the years. “My siblings are around my age, but I’ve seen them grow much more … sideways,” he laughed. “Seeing my men in their late 20s and 30s give it their all during physical training inspires me to do the same. I’m glad that I can still run, even though I’m pushing 50.”

Another often overlooked perk of being an active NSman is career growth. “When you come back for ICT, it’s like a big networking mixer. You’ll be able to cross paths with people from many industries and that can help your career,” explained DAC (NS) Shah, who works in the telecommunications sector.

There’s also the benefit of bonding with the men that you’ve grown up with. “ICT is marked by division competitions, which can be a fun way to show off your talents, be it in shooting, running or even dragon boating.” DAC (NS) Shah recalled how one of his men, who was not very athletic, stood up to proudly represent his unit in a darts competition. “He volunteered because he wanted to give back to his unit and that was heart-warming.”

GROWTH AND GAINS

DAC (NS) Shah (left) with his late parents during his Officer Cadet Graduation Dinner in 1996.

DAC (NS) Shah is a valuable repository of the Force’s history and heritage. Take for example the evolution of the weapons and arms that police officers carry. DAC (NS) Shah candidly shared why each iteration was better than the last. “When I started 25 years ago, officers were issued with a Smith & Wesson revolver, which was changed to the Taurus M85 revolver in 2002.”

He recalled this switch was welcomed by officers because of the laser pointer that came with the Taurus M85, ensuring a more accurate shot. And last year, the standard-issue weapon was changed to a Glock 19 Gen 5 pistol, which can carry up to three times more rounds than its predecessor. It also came with a safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge.

Changes were also made to the rusty batons that police carried. In 2001, the metallic T-baton was introduced to replace the previous metal baton. The metallic T-baton was then replaced by a lightweight extendable baton in 2019. Apart from improvement to equipment, he also witnessed the transformation of TransCom to deal with the changing operating landscape, expansion of transport network, and competing demand for resources. This includes operationalisation of TransCom Woodlands sub-base in 2019 and the implementation of new initiatives such as empowering NSmen to take on more leadership roles in leading anti-crime rounds and community engagement with ROW volunteers.

Importantly, changes to the Force’s hardware have been accompanied by changes to its software. “Today’s police officers are much more skilled at engaging members of the public. This is especially true for TransCom officers, as we are regularly on the ground and in public spaces. It’s an encouraging sign as we value our partnership with the public.”

Like our stories? Subscribe to Frontline Digital Newsletters to get your bi-weekly dose of new content!

Categories
Club Buzz

School’s out, fun’s in

It’s the June school holidays, take part in these exciting activities and enjoy great promotions at HomeTeamNS!

TEXT: MELODY TAN

PHOTOS: HOMETEAMNS

It’s every kid’s favourite time of the year – and the June school holidays are set to be fun for the whole family as well, as you hold your own bowling tournament, discover Peranakan crafts, pose for a family portrait and fold Anti-Drug ribbons together.

With all these activities and promotions to look forward to this month, the HomeTeamNS clubhouses are where your kids will want to spend the June school holidays!

Being a HomeTeamNS member has its perks, even outside the clubhouses. Here are some promotions that your children will want to check out.

LITTLE RANGERS CLUB

If your children are looking to step out of their comfort zones and try something new during the June school holidays, the Little Rangers Club is organising a 1 Day Scuba Diving and Circus Tricks School Holiday Camp on 21 June 2022 for children aged nine and above.

Drop your kids off at Orchid Country Club at 10am and they’ll enjoy a day of fun and learning, as they’re guided through scuba diving in the safety of a swimming pool before spending the afternoon learning circus tricks like juggling the diabolo and spinning plates on a stick.

*Be sure to sign up early as slots are limited. Head over to the HomeTeamNS Mobile App to view the promo code. Promo code has to be quoted at point of registration to enjoy offer. This promotion is not valid with any others.

PERANAKAN-INSPIRED PLAYTIME

In collaboration with award-winning local Peranakan Home Museum, The Intan, T-Play at HomeTeamNS Khatib is proud to be part of the National Heritage Board’s annual Children’s Season, which aims to inculcate a museum-going culture in the next generation.

As part of Children’s Season, T-Play Khatib will feature art, storytelling and handmade crafts designed to showcase the rich and vibrant history of Peranakan culture.

On 17 June 2022 at 8pm, settle down and get cosy for an evening of Storytelling with Baba Alvin (S$20 per participant, not inclusive of T-Play entry).

And on 24 June 2022 from 7pm to 9pm, learn the delicate art of Manik Beading (S$84 per participant, includes T-Play entry).

NURTURE CREATIVITY THE FUN WAY

Fun-cademy at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier presents a programme designed to hone creative minds and develop essential motor skills in children aged between five and 10 years old. They’ll learn to dance, bake and engage in exciting craft activities – and of course, have fun while doing it all.

The programme will run between 20 to 21 June 2022. From as low as S$330, the passes are inclusive of tea, lunch breaks, and workshop materials. Learn more about the fees and Fun-cademy here.

EXCLUSIVE OUTDOOR SILENT MOVIE SCREENING

Wrap up the June School Holidays with your loved ones at HomeTeamNS Khatib for a FREE outdoor silent movie screening! Exclusively for HomeTeamNS members, sit back and relax on comfortable beanbag chairs and watch a movie from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, on 24 June 2022.

Movie-goers will just have to grab a pair of earphones, their mobile devices, and download & register on the Cinewav app available on Google Play, App Store, and App Gallery before the movie. A promo code to download the movie audio file will be sent through email. What are you waiting for? Register before 22 June 2022 to get your seats!

Visit our website for more information on the movie screening here.

RAISE AWARENESS FOR A DRUG-FREE SINGAPORE

As part of this year’s Drug Free SG campaign, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) is collaborating with HomeTeamNS to educate and encourage members to stay clear of drugs.

Members and visitors at all HomeTeamNS Clubhouses are invited to fold green and white Anti-Drug Ribbons to show support for a drug-free Singapore. The activities take place over the following dates:

19 June to 2 July 2022: HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier

1 to 30 June 2022: HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok

12 to 26 June 2022: HomeTeamNS Khatib

6 to 26 June 2022: HomeTeamNS Tampines

FOR TINY DANCERS

If your child can’t stop moving (even when there’s no beat), they might discover a new passion at the free dance trial classes, held by Dance Theatre Arts. Located at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier, Dance Theatre Arts is offering free dance trial classes for hip-hop and tap dancing enthusiasts aged between eight to 10 years old.

The free hip-hop trial class takes place every Wednesday between 5.45pm to 6.45pm, while the free tap dance trial class is on Mondays between 4.45pm to 5.30pm.

To register or learn more about the trial classes, contact 9652 6066 and mention or flash this promotion, which is valid until end June 2022.

PICTURE PERFECT MEMORIES

Capture your kids growing up with 30 per cent off a family photography session at Pierre Ooi Photography Studio, also located at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier.

The discount, which is exclusive to HomeTeamNS-JOM members, includes one 20-inch by 16-inch portrait with canvas and framing, one 12-inch by 8-inch portrait with framing and high-resolution soft copies of two selected images. Normally worth S$388, the package is now available at S$268.

Contact info@pierreooi-photography.com or call 8112 3114. Mention or flash this promotion to enjoy this offer, which is valid until end of June 2022.

CRAFTING A STORY TOGETHER

Little ones will sharpen their listening skills – and get to enjoy a hands-on activity – this Father’s Day, at the Interactive Storytelling and Craft Session with Mrs Eileen Chua at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok.

The event takes place on Father’s Day, 19 June from 10am to 11am. Admission is free, but remember to pre-register first.

BE BOWLED OVER THIS FATHER’S DAY

If your family are competitive by nature, bring them to SuperBowl at HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier and HomeTeamNS Khatib this June. This family-friendly activity is also wallet-friendly, since Dads enjoy free bowling on Father’s Day ,19 June 2022.

Make sure to plan ahead as the promotion is only valid on 19 June and cannot be used with other promotions, privileges, discount cards or vouchers. It cannot be exchanged for cash and is non-transferable.

*SuperBowl reserves the right to amend, append or withdraw terms and conditions without prior notice.

GO ON A DURIAN TOUR

Don’t bask in the post-holiday blues once June is over. Instead, book a 1-Day Bekok Durian Tour with HomeTeamNS! You’ll depart from one of the following clubhouses of your choice –HomeTeamNS-JOM Balestier, HomeTeamNS Khatib or HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok on 3 July 2022.

You’ll head to Bekok, Johor in Malaysia to indulge in a durian buffet and a satisfying lunch of fried beehoon, curry and tropical fruits. There’s also time to shop at Yong Peng Noodles Factory & Yoyo, as well as the shopping malls in Johor Bahru before ending with a sumptuous dinner at a local Chinese restaurant.

Learn more about the tour itinerary and fees here.

Download the new and improved HomeTeamNS Mobile App for the latest promotions and membership perks! 

Categories
Club Buzz

HomeTeamNS Heroes: On the frontlines of customer experience

Meet HomeTeamNS’ Customer Experience Ambassadors, Jessica Leong Hui Yi and Muhammad Hashim Bin Mohamed Yusoff, who make visits to any HomeTeamNS Clubhouse feel like home.

TEXT: MELODY TAN

PHOTOS: MEDIACORP STUDIO 3

If you’ve ever asked a question about swimming pool opening hours, or booked a function room at a HomeTeamNS clubhouse, chances are you’ve interacted with one of our Customer Experience Ambassadors (CEAs) – a team of people dedicated to ensure that members and guests have a smooth and pleasant experience.

In addition to assisting visitors in the clubhouse lobby, members’ lounge and function rooms, CEAs also respond to customer queries via phone, live chat and email. But beyond such standard interactions, the CEA team is working to bring a more personal approach to the customer service experience.

For example, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, CEA Muhammad Hashim Bin Mohamed Yusoff found himself lending a listening ear to HomeTeamNS members, who shared challenging stories about how they were coping during the unprecedented global event.

“Listening to them and sharing some kind and supportive words like ‘take care and stay safe’ are my way of expressing to them that they’re not in this alone. It’s rewarding when you know you are able to make someone’s day with these simple gestures. One thing’s for sure – it certainly made mine.”

HomeTeamNS Customer Experience Ambassador Muhammad Hashim Bin Mohamed Yusoff

GIVING VISITORS A WARM HOMETEAMNS WELCOME

According to Jessica Leong Hui Yi, the most rewarding thing about being a CEA is the opportunity to build bonds with regular HomeTeamNS clubhouse visitors.

“When we see them, they sometimes greet us even before we can greet them,” she says. “It feels like they’re coming home.”

Ms Leong, who joined HomeTeamNS last January after graduating from Murdoch University in September 2020 with a Bachelor of Business Hospitality and Tourism Management Marketing, enjoys the fact that she gets to meet people from different walks of life as part of her job. And far from having to repeat a rote customer service script, she is able to engage members on their preferred terms to ensure that they are satisfied.

“When I meet different members, I try to see if they want a quick answer to their question or if they’re looking for a longer conversation about how they can best experience our clubhouse,” she explains. “As part of the team that represents the face of HomeTeamNS, we try our best to contribute to a better customer service experience in every way.”

Mr Hashim, who also joined HomeTeamNS last year in June, recalls how Ms Leong assisted him with a challenging customer situation during his second week on the job. A customer had brought her children for a day out at the swimming pool, but did not have the required membership. With Jessica’s help, Mr Hashim was able to resolve the situation to everyone’s satisfaction.

As a father of two children himself, Mr Hashim has a soft spot for families who are spending time together at the clubhouse.

“Seeing them having a good time at the clubhouse makes me feel that I’ve accomplished my task,” he says. “Our job is to bring the members’ experience up to a whole new level, which is very rewarding.”

Now that social-distancing regulations have eased, both Ms Leong and Mr Hashim are looking forward to reconnecting with HomeTeamNS clubhouse visitors and raising the bar for members’ experiences even higher.

MORE THAN A SERVICE TRANSACTION

Even as the number of visitors ramps up, the CEAs are determined to maintain the warm and personal aspect of the HomeTeamNS customer service experience.

As observed by Ms Leong: “Many members are now more willing to leave home, step out of their comfort zones and explore the clubhouse. To make things easier, we have different channels to reach out to them like the new and improved HomeTeamNS Mobile App. When you make a facility booking, you’re experiencing time spent with us, whether via the live chat or emails, phone calls or meeting us on site. It’s not just a transactional purchase – we try to interact with customers using a human touch.”

She adds that as a CEA, she hopes to continue to get to know visitors better and work with them to ensure their HomeTeamNS clubhouse experience is engaging and pleasant.

For example, when helping a visitor to book the pool facility, instead of just telling them to download the app in order to make the booking, she prefers to chat with them about their desired purpose. “Understanding where they are coming from – such as an elderly visitor who wants to bring their grandkids for a swim – makes the process much easier for them. I can also explain the perks of going digital and how they can reconnect with us in a faster manner, thus enticing them to give it a try and truly catering to their needs.”

Ever the family man, Mr Hashim says that on his off days he plans to bring his kids to Khatib Clubhouse more often, as they enjoy visiting T-Play. “HomeTeamNS has facilities for teammates, friends and families, and Khatib Clubhouse recently celebrated its first anniversary and there are lots of perks to enjoy for both members and non-members. So feel free to come to our clubhouse – we have lots to offer you guys!”

Categories
Lifestyle

Have passport, will travel

With international travel slowly becoming the norm again, what do you need to know before you book your ticket abroad? What happens if you fall sick overseas, or your flight is cancelled due to changing border controls?

TEXT: MELODY TAN

IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

It’s time to dust off the passport, wheel out your suitcase and look for your winter jacket: overseas travel is back after two years of strict border controls, no thanks to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Air passenger traffic was up 18 per cent in April compared to a month ago, and Singapore expects it to be restored to 50 per cent of pre-COVID passenger volume by the end of 2022. In the meantime, cross-border bus and taxi services between Singapore and Johor Bahru resumed in the beginning of May, after the land border was reopened for fully vaccinated travellers in April.

Travelling in the age of COVID-19 can be intimidating and confusing, but if you take some simple precautions, you can have a relaxing, stress-free vacation overseas. Read on to find out what they are.

RENEW YOUR PASSPORTS EARLY

Revenge travel – a term for pent-up travel demand after the restrictions caused by COVID-19 – is very real. Demand is so great that the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority  announced that Singaporeans who are renewing or applying for their passports will have to wait at least six weeks – a two-week increase from April’s four week-long processing time.

If you’re planning to head overseas soon, make sure to check that everyone’s passports have at least six months until expiry. Otherwise, you might find that your trip is over before it’s even begun.

BUDGET AND PLAN ACCORDINGLY

With rising oil prices and the challenges faced by the airline industry during the pandemic, it’s no surprise that growing demand for plane tickets has been met with higher prices.

If you’re planning a trip, it’s best to start early and keep an eye out for promotional deals, non-peak flight dates and alternative airlines. To save money, you might need to be a little bit more flexible with your dream itinerary – for example, by flying with a budget airline or even choosing a different destination.

You could also consider visiting places that can be reached by land or sea. Instead of heading to Bali, consider spending a long weekend at a Bintan villa in Indonesia. If you’re trying to beat the heat, consider driving to Genting or Cameron Highlands in Malaysia.

BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH COVID-19 COVERAGE

What happens if you catch COVID-19 during your vacation? Or worse, just before your flight is due to depart Singapore? While travel insurance has been a standard purchase for many vacationing Singaporeans, it’s now more important than ever.

Look for a travel insurance policy that covers COVID-19-related expenses, such as clinic fees and hospitalisation overseas, as well as flight cancellations, delays and extra accommodation costs if you are quarantined or unable to board your flight. It might cost you a bit more than a standard travel insurance, but it’s worth the peace of mind.

PACK YOUR OWN SUPPLIES

Even if the country you’re travelling to has lifted their mask mandate, you should still bring along your masks just in case. After all, while planes have air exchange systems that can filter the COVID-19 virus, other forms of transportation, such as trains and buses, do not. You might want to wear your mask while on the airport shuttle to your hotel, or in crowded places.

In addition, bring along a few Antigen Rapid Test (ART) kits and a thermometer. If you start to feel feverish or unwell during your travels, you can test yourself in your hotel room instead of having to Google for nearby clinics (and you might find it difficult to locate an English-speaking doctor, if you are travelling to non-native English speaking countries). Knowing if you really did catch COVID-19 will help you to figure out your next step. Do read up on the COVID-19 protocols of the country you are in, to find out how long you will be required to isolate, or whether you need to undergo a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test.

PREPARE YOUR DOCUMENTS

When travelling, the immigration authorities will want to see your notarised vaccination records, so make sure to download them from HealthHub and save them in your phone. If you’re travelling with your spouse and children, save copies of everyone’s vaccination records. Consider printing them out in case you lose your device or run out of battery.

Do check if your destination requires any contact tracing or health app, such as Malaysia’s MySejahtera app or Indonesia’s PeduliLindungi. You’ll probably have to fill in a health declaration form, such as Australia’s Digital Passenger Declaration, before departure. This can be done online or via the identically-named app seven days before your flight. Sorting all this before you leave can save you a lot of time at the airport – leaving you free to enjoy your first international trip since the pandemic. Happy travels!

Categories
Shape Up

Fighting fit for National Service

Enlisting for National Service soon? We talk to a Fitness Workz trainer to find out how you can improve your conditioning to be in the best possible shape for NS!

TEXT: NICHOLAS JACOB

PHOTOS: FITNESS WORKZ

If you’re about to enlist for National Service (NS), it’s understandable to feel some trepidation over what lies in wait over the next two years. After all, NSmen are trained rigorously to ready themselves to defend our country – an important duty which calls for the requisite level of physical fitness.

Even so, with the right mindset and plan in place, you can place yourself on the right track to emerging from NS stronger in both body and mind, while having had the best experience possible – and we’re here to guide you through that!

EXPECTING WHAT TO EXPECT

Some of the challenges NSmen can typically expect to undergo include adjusting to new living environments and routines, hours of demanding physical training sessions, and a range of intensive physical activities which call for a high level of fitness.

According to Mr Muhammad Danish’aizat Bin Kamsani, a fitness trainer at Fitness Workz, setting realistic fitness goals is one way to stay on track and motivated before enlistment and throughout the NS journey.

“This gives you a framework through which you can achieve milestones. Achieving your fitness goal can be rewarding and being fit ahead of enlistment can reduce the risk of injury during basic training,” he shared.

So, how does one structure that fitness plan?

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR TIME

As a rule of thumb, it is ideal to allow yourself around a year to prepare for NS – this allows plenty of time for you to train at a measured pace and condition your body before enlisting.

Mr Danish’aizat recommends hitting the gym three days a week for the first few months, then ramping up the frequency to five weekly sessions as you progress.

“Always aim for improvement every week and try out new training styles. Having a few gym kakis can also help you stay motivated and focused on your fitness goals,” he advised.

Of course, not everyone may have the luxury of time to spend a full year of training. For instance, if one only has a month to prep before enlisting, Mr Danish’aizat recommends focusing on improving cardiovascular health and muscular endurance for the best short-term gains possible.

“This can help you to be mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming training sessions,” he explained.

THE ROAD TO GETTING FIGHTING FIT

When it comes to the exercises, our fitness trainer notes that focusing on strengthening your pectoralis and abdominal muscles before enlisting will translate into the greatest benefits for your NS journey. Again, tie these back to goals you wish to achieve.

For example, training yourself to run the 2.4km under 13 minutes will improve your cardiovascular fitness – which can not only help with the 2.4km run itself, but also a wide range of physical activities you can expect during NS.

Fun fact: Incorporating additional exercises to develop your shoulders, arms, back and legs can also improve your overall cardiovascular health! Doing so will also enhance your holistic strength, allowing you to tackle the physical challenges that come with NS more easily.

FITNESS FOR LIFE

Apart from fitness training, Mr Danish’aizat recommends maintaining a balanced, healthy diet to complement your training while also mentally preparing yourself for lifestyle changes during NS.

“Simply replace vegetable oil with olive oil, choose baking or air-frying over deep-frying. Try to prepare your own meals as much as possible or pick healthier options when you eat out. Getting used to eating healthy will also make it easier to acclimatise to a new healthy lifestyle upon enlistment,” he explained.

Through it all, the fitness habits picked up during NS will be helpful long after your stint is complete.

“Fitness does not stop as there is no limit to it. Continuing to live an active and healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of illness and improve your mental health! Each new day is a new opportunity to improve yourself – take it and make the most out of it,” Mr Danish’aizat advised.

Close Up

View all

In the Force

View all

Spotlight

View all

Club Buzz

View all

Singapore Buzz

View all

Food

View all

Family Time

View all

Technology

View all

Shape Up

View all

Travel

View all