Month: November 2023

What to do on a Rainy Day in Singapore with your Family

Post author By Ben
Post date November 30, 2023
No Comments on What to do on a Rainy Day in Singapore with your Family

HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir's Aqua Adventure.

Keep your loved ones physically and mentally stimulated with these activities to ensure that a downpour won’t dampen your spirits.

TEXT: THERESE TAY

IMAGES: HOMETEAMNS; TRIFECTA MARTIAL ARTS; SCIENCE CENTRE SINGAPORE; HYPERDRIVE; SUKI SUKI THAI; MOTION ART SPACE; PUNGGOL REGIONAL LIBRARY

Singapore’s north-east monsoon season, which typically brings heavy rains and strong winds from December to early March, is approaching. While it can scupper outdoor activities, that doesn’t mean you have to just #NetflixAndChill.

Here’s our top pick of rainy-day activities in Singapore, from adventurous pursuits that won’t leave you drenched to mentally stimulating quests to mould impressionable young minds.

PLAY WITH WATER… INDOORS

Climb, slide, and splash through exhilarating zones at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir’s Aqua Adventure. This indoor water adventure centre features a 114m-long Double Trouble Slide that’s said to be the longest indoor water slide in Singapore. You can choose to plunge through it together with a friend on a dual float. There is also the 85m Blackhole Slide that brings you through a thrilling 12 -15 second-long journey in total darkness. The adventure centre also boasts an elevated water obstacle course that will help you to build confidence through various interactive elements — you’ll be splashed with water as you navigate the course — and Clockwork Towers, a five-lane interactive rock climbing wall for the especially agile.

(For our HomeTeamNS Members) Enjoy exclusive members’ rates starting from S$40 per session.

MAKE LIKE A NINJA

Conquer obstacles and scale heights at HomeTeamNS Khatib’s four-storey, 2,800 sq m indoor adventure centre, Adventure HQ. The challenges include Urban Climb, a dynamic rock-climbing experience and Ninja Course, which is great for improving strength, endurance, and agility with its monkey bars and warped wall you are meant to sprint up. Other exciting installations include Sky Venture, a two-tiered rope course with 16 obstacles, and the thrilling Parabolic Slide that features a 90-degree drop.

(For our HomeTeamNS Members) Enjoy exclusive rates starting from S$32.30 per session.

UNLEASH YOUR COMPETITIVE SPIRIT

Action Motion, a gamified multi-tier obstacle course at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir, has amped up stations featuring swinging nets; climbing walls (try the Ascend Lab with its auto-belay system); an Augmented Reality trampoline; and ball pits (test your balance, agility, and strength with Motion Mesh). Embrace some friendly family competition as you notch your achievements with RFID wrist tags. Earn points by completing the obstacles and stand the chance to redeem attractive prizes the likes of Sudio wireless earbuds, Nintendo Switch game titles, Sephora e-gift cards, and more.

(For our HomeTeamNS Members) Enjoy exclusive rates starting from S$35.33 per session.

LEARN MARTIAL ARTS

Martial arts can help develop your self-esteem, discipline, and respect for others. Trifecta Martial Arts offers Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Krav Maga lessons. Their BJJ Powertots class incorporates age-appropriate drills and games to hone the motor and cognitive skills of toddlers and kids. Book a trial class at its HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir outlet.

(For our HomeTeamNS Members) Enjoy a 50 per cent discount on trial class and registration fees plus a 20 per cent discount on uniform and equipment purchase.

EMBARK ON A SCIENTIFIC JOURNEY

Discover the inner workings of the fascinating world we live in at the Science Centre. It’s home to KidSTOP, where children aged eight and below can learn to inquire, investigate, and innovate in a safe and conducive environment. It also offers plenty of activities for older kids and adults, from learning how to create an AI-generated gif to exploring a mirror maze. There’s also a plethora of facilities: Souvenir shops, prayer rooms, F&B outlets, as well as a microbrewery.

(For our HomeTeamNS Members) Enjoy 10 per cent off Science Centre and KidSTOP annual passes.

SPEED LIKE HAMILTON

Race your kids at HyperDrive on Sentosa’s Palawan precinct. The F1-inspired electric go-kart circuit offers fun virtual gaming elements such as turbo boosts and safe ways to sabotage your competitors. Its neon-lit three-level racetrack, designed by former karting world champion David Terrien, offers adrenaline packed action with 308m of straights and 14 turns. Those who want to ride with a child (who must be at least 90cm tall) can opt for the dual kart, which requires the driver to have a valid car or motorcycle licence.

WARM UP WITH HOTPOT

What can be more comforting than warming up with steamboat or hotpot when it’s raining outside? Besides the world-famous Hai Di Lao, check out the Mongolian-style Happy Lamb Hotpot and Uncle Fong Hotpot, the latter a popular choice among Hong Kong celebrities. For a wallet-friendly option, Suki Suki Thai offers a halal buffet featuring quality ingredients such as thinly sliced beef, fresh chicken, and homemade fish paste.

(For our HomeTeamNS Members) Get 10 per cent off your total bill at Suki Suki Thai at HomeTeamNS Khatib outlet.

READ, PLAY, LEARN

Immerse yourself in a riveting novel at one of Singapore’s public libraries. We recommend the recently opened Punggol Regional Library, which has two floors catered specifically for children to read and learn in interactive ways. It also offers upskilling workshops for entrepreneurs and an accessible collection with Braille texts and phonic readers. Assistive technology devices are also available for persons with disabilities. The library is located within One Punggol community hub, which has sheltered basement parking and an indoor food court.

CREATE ABSTRACT ART THROUGH PHYSICS

Motion Art Space is an art jamming space where you can create abstract masterpieces using spin and pendulum painting methods. The latter involves swinging a mechanical pendulum attached to paint-filled squeeze bottles and trays over a rotating table, creating bright patterns with bold paint spatters. The company also has a 1 per cent philanthropic model whereby it pledges to give back 1 per cent of profits, employee’s time, and product respectively to the community.

RAINY SEASON TIPS

Here’s how to stay safe and dry while you’re out and about.

If you’re driving, take note that some roads may experience flash flooding. Tune in to the radio for weather- and flood-related information.
On the road, general driving best practices during rainy days include extending the safe distance between you and the car ahead and switching on your headlights.
Find sheltered parking nearest to your location using Parkopedia, which maps out Singapore’s car parks and street parking.
If you’re caught in a storm, grab ponchos or umbrellas at convenience stores such as 7-Eleven or Cheers. You can also rent umbrellas at Nestia Shared Umbrella’s 137 stands islandwide, which includes some MRT stations.

Interested in serving beyond your obligations? Consider the Volunteer Extension Scheme, which allows PNSMen who have completed their NS liability to continue serving beyond their statutory age. PNSMen (With NS liability) who have passed their statutory age of 40 years (Junior Officers) & 50 years (Senior Officers) may apply.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the app settings.

Tags Family activities, RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES, action motion, Aqua Adventure, Adventure HQ

Singapore Buzz

The smart homeowner’s guide to refreshing your home without breaking the bank

Post author By Ben
Post date November 30, 2023
No Comments on The smart homeowner’s guide to refreshing your home without breaking the bank

TEXT: MORGAN AWYONG

PHOTOS: VARIOUS

Home is where the heart is. So why shouldn’t we try to make our space a photogenic haven? Refreshing your abode doesn’t need to involve costly renovations that also disrupt your daily routine. You can get good decorative mileage by opting for choice furniture pieces.

The best part is, there are places in Singapore that offer stylish but affordable furniture without breaking the bank. These businesses often focus on pre-loved or repurposed items – donated or salvaged – and given a second life by these experts. With their keen curation, one person’s junk is indeed another person’s treasure.

TONG MERN SERN ANTIQUES ARTS & CRAFTS

Talk about character. Tong Mern Sern sticks out like a “sore” thumb along Craig Road from its refurbished neighbours. Its original facade – somewhat worn and with a giant yellow banner stating their purpose – is like a time capsule into the past with its collection of vintage pieces.

Spread over three floors are furniture, fittings and decor items that will evoke nostalgia. Seen more as antiques, prices here may occasionally be a bit higher, but given their rarity and condition, can prove to be investment pieces that are well worth it.

THE REJECT SHOP

While others look to give second life to used pieces, The Reject Shop saves those that didn’t even make it to the shelves. They collect items rejected by manufacturers due to minor defects but are otherwise completely functional and safe to use. Think, light scratches at the bottom of a table leg or a sofa cushion with a slightly crooked seam. Most of these defects can be overlooked with a fresh coat of paint or other subtle creative solutions like adding a tablecloth. If you’re good with keeping things “out of sight, out of mind”, then this place is perfect for you.

HOCK SIONG & CO

From a simple karang guni (scrap dealer) operation in the 1970s to today’s empire of restoration, Hock Siong & Co has built a solid reputation for their beautifully-refurbished pieces. Their team of craftsmen chisel, varnish and sand away at preloved pieces, giving them a new lease of life.

Their wooden pieces are highlights and you’ll find many furniture items made from natural teak, rosewood, and more. It’s an incredible way to extend their use and their eclectic selection is bound to fit any theme you might have in mind.

With a keen eye for design, it’s unsurprising that many of their selections posted on their Facebook become sold out within the hour. They are also very savvy in collecting stylish pieces from hotels and showflats, so if you’re looking to have that luxe look on a budget, this place won’t disappoint.

JUNKIE’S CORNER

If you love a good dive into the wildest assortment of furniture, knick-knacks and more, then pop over to Junkie’s Corner. True to the first part of its name, this is a real junkyard that can turn up some surprising finds. But unlike the latter part, Junkie’s Corner is more of a warehouse stuffed to the roof with collected items.

This is perfect for those who love a real scavenger hunt. There’s some mild organisation here, but you’ll see cupboards next to chairs, with random rugs or lamps piled around them. There are great vintage pieces such as the classic Singer sewing machines or marble-topped kopitiam (coffee shop) tables. The pieces here are “as is” – so they may need some work.

With no online presence, you’ll have to visit them at 2 Turf Club Rd. And just to note, they are open to a little bargaining.

SALVATION ARMY

Another reliable place to look for preloved pieces will be The Salvation Army’s social enterprise, Red Shield Industries. The international organisation reuses, recycles and restores a myriad of donations from the public and organisations. With their teams and volunteers helming the effort, you can be assured that the salvaged pieces are worth picking up.

For your best bet, head over to the Praisehaven Mega Family Store at Upper Bukit Timah Road. It is the largest of the four outlets and most likely to have furniture pieces. You can even check out the online options and Carousell listings without visiting the stores. Proceeds from the sales would go towards care provisions to underserved communities. It’s truly a wonderful way to benefit your home, the environment, and the people around you.

PROTECT YOUR HOME, FOR FREE

After spending the time and effort hunting for precious pieces to add to your home, protect them from future incidents with an insurance plan – for free.

In a collaboration with Singlife, HomeTeamNS members can enjoy a year’s worth of home insurance with Shield360. Not a member yet? For eligible Ordinary and Associate members, you’ll be pleased to know that the plan includes HomeTeamNS membership for a year as well when you sign up.

Receive up to S$20,000 worth of coverage for your furniture and furnishings, and even up to S$50,000 for renovation incidents. There’s no catch, it’s just a way to reward hardworking members who deserve the best.

Tags Family activities, Home Team Festival 2023, Home Team events

In The Force

Sporting success: Flying the flag for Singapore, the Home Team

Post author By Dennis
Post date November 27, 2023
No Comments on Sporting success: Flying the flag for Singapore, the Home Team

Noah Lim (pictured on the right) won SEA Games gold in 2019, 2021, and 2023; he narrowly missed the jiu-jitsu bronze in the 2023 Asian Games.

Sporting success: Home Team NSFs Noah Lim, Nufail Rayan and Ethan Poh share the secrets behind their athletic achievements.

TEXT AND PHOTOS: NOAH LIM AND SPF

SCDF and SPF servicemen did the country proud at the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia. On top of their NS commitments and duties, they trained vigorously and won medals in their respective events.

We caught up with CPL Noah Lim, SC/Cpl Nufail Raiyan Bin Abu Bakar and SC/Sgt Ethan Poh to find out how they maintained their peak performance for the games, while serving their NS commitments.

CPL (NSF) NOAH LIM

Emergency Medical Technician, Alexandra Fire Station

How does it feel to win the gold medal in the SEA Games gold thrice (in 2019, 2021, and 2023)?

I feel proud to do my part for Singapore. I know that this is just the beginning and there is so much more I want to achieve for my country. Representing Singapore in the sport I love is such a huge honour. I also want to be a role model to show others what is possible, with some discipline and hard work.

How did you balance your training and NS commitments?

Juggling shift duties and jiu-jitsu training can be challenging at times. I I did my best to manage my time carefully, maximising my training time on my off days.

We heard that you dislocated your little finger just before the 2023 SEA Games. What kept you going during the competition?

Life is unpredictable and some things are really beyond our control. The accident was beyond my control, but I focused on doing my best in what I could control.

My favourite analogy: walking a plank 10cm off the ground requires the same set of actions as walking a plank across two buildings. The pressure may feel greater in your mind, but the actions are the same. Focus on your training and preparation as usual, and there is no reason why you cannot achieve more.

What have you learned from competing in jiu-jitsu at an international level?

I’ve learnt how to strategise and plan ahead. I have also adopted a growth mindset, which encourages me to learn new techniques, while focusing on what is important.

SC/CPL NUFAIL RAIYAN BIN ABU BAKAR

Protective Security Command (ProCom); Silver, Men’s Field Hockey

How has your experience as a ProCom officer influenced your performance or mindset during competitions?

It’s given me a greater sense of discipline, determination and focus. Another value that applies both to NS and sports training is resilience – to always give my best in everything I do, and to never stop trying. I believe that all the hard work I’ve put in will pay off at the end of the day, be it for myself, my team, my fellow officers or members of the public.

How did you balance your responsibilities as a ProCom officer with your SEA Games training schedule?

It was a challenge to maintain a balance between my work and training, not to mention family time. Managing my responsibilities as an officer while dedicating time for training requires good time management skills. Fortunately, my supervisors, coaches and family were always understanding and supportive of my decisions.

I learnt the importance of prioritising my duties and responsibilities while seeking balance in my pursuits outside of work. I also learnt the value of taking care of my physical and emotional well-being.

To my family, friends, fellow officers and teammates, thank you so much for your continuous support. I couldn’t have done it without your words of encouragement.

SC/SGT ETHAN POH

Public Transport Security Command (TransCom); Gold, Men’s Table Tennis (Team); Bronze, Men’s Table Tennis (Double)

How do you feel about winning two medals this year?

I’m definitely happy. It’s a privilege and an honour to win medals for Singapore at major sporting events. The Team Gold Medal means a lot to us as the last time Singapore won, it was in 2015. I’m glad to be part of the winning team this year.

How do you juggle your NS responsibilities and your sporting career?

I’m a staff officer at TransCom and it takes good time management skills to fulfil both my duties and train for competitions. I train after work every evening. It’s essential to have supportive colleagues, especially during the competition period. They covered my duties and even followed my matches closely, cheering me on. My achievements wouldn’t be possible without them!

How has your NS experience helped your development as an athlete?

During my Police Officers’ Basic Course at the Home Team Academy (HTA), I was able to take a break from the sport. The SPF values I learned during my course helped me make a positive change in how I approached training and competition.

I’ll be completing my NS this year and it’s been a really fulfilling two years, from my time at the HTA to TransCom. I’m thankful for the many lessons I’ve learnt throughout the policing journey.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App, and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Family Time Club Buzz

5 reasons why you don’t want to miss HomeTeamNS Culture Shiok 2023

Post author By Ben
Post date November 24, 2023
No Comments on 5 reasons why you don’t want to miss HomeTeamNS Culture Shiok 2023

Catch lively performances and well-curated exhibitions, nosh on delectable snacks and learn new crafts.

TEXT: GLENDA LIM
IMAGES: HOMETEAMNS

Immerse yourself in Singapore’s rich tapestry of cultures at this year’s Culture Shiok, an event that couldn’t be missed even during the pandemic, when a virtual edition of it was held.

This year’s event will run till 3 December at HomeTeamNS Khatib’s Thoroughfare at Level 1 and will feature colourful traditional dance and musical performances, as well as an array of fun activities including nostalgic schoolyard games. A different culture will be showcased each week, with an emphasis on Malay, Indian, Chinese, and Peranakan traditions.

HomeTeamNS members can collect a complimentary Culture Shiok passport, which they can use to redeem snacks at the various food stalls and collect stamps and stickers throughout the event. A completed passport can be exchanged for an exclusive gift worth $80 on 2 December from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free, though certain activities require pre-registration and are chargeable.

1. GET CREATIVE CRAFTING

Create beautiful accessories and bric-a-brac to gift your loved ones at several workshops held during the event. These include batik pencil case DIY, flower garland-making, Chinese fan painting, and tote bag-beading. Young budding artisans will get a kick out of seeing their projects come to life.

2. HAVE FUN WITH THE GAMES OF YESTER-YEAR

Enjoy a throwback to the good ol’ carefree days where kids had a blast with non-electronic pursuits. Our cultural game booths will feature classics such as “five stones”, “pick up sticks”, chapteh, and congkak, the latter being a test of logic featuring a wooden board and seeds that is predominantly played in South India, Ceylon, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

3. NOSH ON A MULTICULTURAL SPREAD

Savour tantalising snacks from different cultures at various booths, including putu piring (steamed rice flour cakes with palm sugar and grated coconut), vadai (deep-fried savoury doughnuts), tang yuan (glutinous rice balls in syrup) and an assortment of Nyonya kueh. HomeTeamNS members get to redeem complimentary snacks when they flash their Culture Shiok passports.

4. SING AND DANCE ALONG

No cultural event is complete without a captivating display of music and dance. Marvel at masterful cultural expressions through bhangra dance and Teochew opera performances, as well as a silat demonstration. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the Peranakan Parade — don your best Peranakan outfits and sashay down the runway to win attractive prizes.

5. VIEW ENGAGING EXHIBITIONS

Discover Singapore’s diverse cultures at various fascinating onsite exhibitions available daily. There’s the National Heritage Board’s ‘Love, Kebaya’, which explores the region’s shared cultural identity and heritage through the iconic kebaya, as well as charity Tak Takut Kids Club’s ‘This is What we Eat at Home’ — which takes you on a gastronomic journey. Also, don’t miss a specially curated display by the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre which will answer the question: ‘What Makes a Chinese New Year, Singaporean?’.

Tags Family activities, HomeTeamNS Culture Shiok 2023, HomeTeamNS events

Singapore Buzz In The Force

7 Reasons Why You Should Not Miss the Home Team Festival 2023

Post author By Ben
Post date November 24, 2023
No Comments on 7 Reasons Why You Should Not Miss the Home Team Festival 2023

You’ll have the opportunity to handle firearms, discover cutting-edge technologies, and meet our furry friends from the SCDF and SPF K-9 units at the event that will happen at Singapore Expo this November.

A shooting range where you can learn how to handle firearms. A Vehicle Examination booth where you can transform into a Search and Examination officer and inspect a vehicle for contraband items. These are just some of the highlights that you can expect at the upcoming Home Team Festival, which will be held from 24 to 26 November at Singapore Expo Hall 4. Admission is free.

Themed “What is your #HomeTeamStory”, this year’s festival marks 10 years since the launch of the biennial event that shines a spotlight on the 11 Home Team Departments, which work together to keep Singapore safe and secure. The event will feature four thematic zones where you can learn about the history and achievements of the Home Team, get a hands-on experience with the technology that drives it, and find out how you can play a role in supporting our Home Team officers. Here’s what to look out for.

LEARN HOW TO HANDLE A REAL WEAPON

Photo taken at Home Team Festival 2019

Meet dedicated officers from the different Home Team Departments and get an insider’s glimpse into their work through displays and live demonstrations which will showcase some of the vehicles and technologies deployed. More adventurous souls who meet the 1.2 metre height requirement can visit the SPF/SPS Shooting Range, where they will have the opportunity to try their hand at target shooting using firearms used by Home Team officers during public order incidents or prison riots.

MEET OUR K-9 HEROES

Photo taken at Home Team Festival 2019

It may be a little-known fact that man’s best friend plays an important role in safeguarding the nation’s security. Canines from the SCDF and SPF K-9 units are trained for frontline operations such as detection of life forms and explosives, respectively. You’ll get to meet these loyal, furry companions who will leave no stone unturned.

CATCH ACTION-PACKED PERFORMANCES AND SCREENINGS

Photo taken at Home Team Festival 2019

Observe how the Home Team officers go about conducting their duties through an exciting live MHA Operations Demonstration. Check out the immersive theatre experience showcasing our Home Team officers in action.