Facebook Instagram Tiktok Linkedin Youtube Telegram
Search
Close this search box.

Month: August 2024

Categories
In The Force

Police Day 2024: A Salute to Valour and Vigilance

Reflecting on a day of unity and dedication, Police Day 2024 honoured the commitment and courage of the Singapore Police Force.

Annually celebrated on 3 June since 1971, Police Day is a special occasion where officers renew their pledge to uphold the values of courage, loyalty, integrity, and fairness. It’s a day dedicated to recognising the contributions of our officers and acknowledging the achievements of the Singapore Police Force (SPF).

Guests taking the Police Pledge at the HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir Clubhouse.

As revealed in this Police Life article, this year’s celebration extended beyond the confines of the Home Team Academy (HTA), as the Police National Service Department collaborated with HomeTeamNS for a special live screening of the Police Day Parade at the Bedok Reservoir Clubhouse. The event welcomed over 60 guests from three generations of Police National Service (PNS) officers, emphasising the lasting legacy and unity of the SPF.

Commissioner of Police Hoong Wee Teck led officers in reciting the Police Pledge.

RENEWING THE COMMITMENT TO SERVE

The highlight of Police Day 2024 was the Police Day Parade held at the HTA. Originally planned outdoors, inclement weather necessitated a move to Harmony Hall. Over 640 participants — including officers from the Police Land Divisions, specialist units, the Volunteer Special Constabulary, and National Police Cadet Corps Cadets — came together to demonstrate their unity and dedication.

SM Teo Chee Hean inspecting the Guard of Honour contingent.

Mr Teo Chee Hean, Senior Minister (SM) and Coordinating Minister for National Security, presided over the Parade, applauding the SPF’s crucial role in maintaining Singapore’s safety. “Our Police officers work tirelessly to keep Singapore safe and secure, continually adapting to technological advances and the evolving security landscape,” said SM Teo.  On this Police Day, let us honour the contributions and sacrifices of all Police officers, recognise their commitment and dedication, and thank them for their service to the nation.”

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

The Parade also featured the presentation of awards for exceptional service. Clementi Police Division was recognised as the Best Land Division for the third year running, a testament to its operational prowess and community engagement.

AC Serene Chiu, Commander of Clementi Police Division, receiving the Best Land Division Award from SM Teo.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (AC) Serene Chiu, Commander of the Clementi Police Division, shared her pride in the division’s achievements. “This achievement is a reflection of the strong partnerships we have built with our community stakeholders and volunteers. Their vigilance, cooperation and support have been invaluable in our collective efforts to fight crime and maintain peace and safety,” she said.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (NS) Muhammad Nur Firdaus Bin Zulkifli, NS Deputy Commander of APD, receiving the Best NS Operationally Ready Unit Award from SM Teo.

The Airport Police Division (APD) also stood out by clinching the Best NS Operationally Ready Unit Award for the third consecutive year. “This achievement clearly demonstrates NSmen’s commitment to excellence for the SPF,” said Superintendent of Police (Supt) (NS) Shaikh Abdullah, NS Commander of APD. “A well-deserved recognition of the efforts and sacrifices made by all APD NSmen and their families.”

Showcasing Singapore’s multiculturalism through music and dance.

A Musical Tribute and Extended Celebrations

The parade wrapped up with a rousing performance by the SPF Combined Band, featuring a blend of military motifs, Scottish bagpipes and ethnic percussion instruments, celebrating Singapore’s cultural diversity.

The observance ceremony at the HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir Clubhouse saw former and active PNS officers gathered for the live screening of the Police Day Parade. Not only did the special event allow more members of the Police family to join in the festivities, but it also fostered a sense of belonging and continuity among past and present PNS officers.

Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police K Puvenesveran addressing officers at the Police Day Parade Observance Ceremony.

Officers from the Community Partnership Department were also present to reach out to PNSmen on the various volunteer schemes that are available for them to sign up.

Booth by the Community Partnership Department at the Police Day Parade Observance Ceremony.

Frontline congratulates all the 2024 award recipients and a heartfelt thank you to every officer who contributed to making this year’s Police Day Parade a truly memorable and inspiring event.

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.

Categories
Singapore Buzz Featured

Reel life in the Lion City: 7 films that tell the Singapore story

For the month of August, revisit these nostalgic works by our local filmmakers.

As a young nation with a complex blend of cultures, Singapore is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbouring countries’ rich historical heritage. Little do tourists know, our unique lineage is woven into the fabric of our modern city and the nuances of our lifestyles.

Singaporean cinema offers a window into the soul of our city, capturing the complexities of our social fabric, both past and present. Through these eight films, we travel back in time to witness the Singapore story – a narrative of resilience, innovation and the common aspiration to better ourselves for our loved ones.

WHERE EVERY BOY BECOMES A MAN

Before Ah Boys to Men and 23:59, there was Army Daze (1996). This film, despite its cheesy moments, won attention as one of the first commercial efforts locally after 30 years, focusing on the familiar topic of military service. Based on Michael Chiang’s play, it struck a chord with local audiences for its use of Singlish and comedic portrayal of barracks life.

Produced by Cathay Asia Films and directed by Ong Keng Sen, the film follows protagonist Malcolm (Edward Yong) through enlistment and training. As the mummy’s boy navigates challenges in camp and the antics of his platoon mates, he learns life lessons, forms new friendships and showcases the resilience of young men during National Service.

OF PRISONS, REGRETS AND REDEMPTION

Boo Junfeng’s Apprentice (2016) explores deep themes through the story of a young correctional officer learning the ropes from a retiring colleague – who is revealed to be the chief executioner responsible for his father’s death.

This hard-hitting English and Malay feature delves into redemption and duty, highlighting the conflicts they cause. With powerful performances by Firdaus Rahman and Wan Hanafi Su, the film provides an unflinching look at the ethics of the death penalty, making it a compelling entry in our film archives.

Watch on: Netflix

LOVE EXPRESSED THROUGH CUISINE

Is food truly the way to a person’s heart? In Sayang Disayang (2016), Sanif Olek explores this question by depicting the relationship between an Indonesian domestic worker and her Singaporean Malay employer.

After his wife’s death, Pak Harun becomes a grumpy widower who vents his anger on Murni, his caregiver – in particular, criticising her sambal goreng compared to his late wife’s superior version. Through this tension, Sanif weaves an emotional tale as Murni searches for the secret ingredient to win his approval. This film, Singapore’s first Malay-language feature since the 1970s, also showcases popular Malay ballads.

Watch on: meWATCH

ESCAPING FROM THE SYSTEM

Based on true events, Gurushetram – 24 Hours of Anger (2010) is a thrilling story of 17-year-old Prakash, who navigates a broken system while protecting his mentally challenged brother.

Seeking refuge with his uncle, Prakash soon discovers that he leads a criminal syndicate and involves the brothers in his illicit activities. As a police superintendent and a caring social worker enter the scene, the brothers face numerous obstacles, betrayals and deceptions. This fast-paced Tamil film offers a gritty look at lesser-explored themes in Singapore cinema.

GETAI GLITZ AND THE SACRIFICE OF SINGING SISTERS

Campy and endearing, 881 (2007) is the third film by Royston Tan, who previously earned acclaim for his more sombre and gritty films, 15 and 14:30. In contrast, 881 is a riotous dive into the colourful world of getai culture, exploring the sacrifices made for passion. The story centres on the Papaya Sisters, who fall in love with stage singing after watching a performance. Seeking fame, they appeal to a ‘goddess’ for help, who grants their wishes but warns of the pain they must endure.

Royston Tan’s authenticity in portraying subcultures shines through, despite the kitschy segments and ludicrous props like laser-shooting corsets. His finesse elicits laughter and tears from the audience, making the film both entertaining and moving.

Watch on: meWATCH

TEARJERKER TALES OF THE UNSUNG HEROES AT HOME

Our domestic helpers play an integral role in many households, and this relationship is deeply explored in the award-winning film Ilo Ilo (2013). The film sheds light on the emotional bonds between families and their helpers, highlighting the complex roles they fulfil while maintaining boundaries.

Anthony Chen’s script delves into the difficult dynamics of having a ‘stranger’ in the house, who gradually becomes a parental figure to a child. He tackles challenging topics such as abuse, neglect and growing pains with sensitivity and depth. This heartfelt piece, bolstered by a brilliant cast, has garnered numerous awards, including Singapore’s first Cannes Award, the prestigious Camera d’Or.

Watch on: Prime Video

A FORMULAIC SEARCH FOR HAPPINESS

Tiong Bahru Social Club (2020) is visually striking, with candy colours and symmetry reminiscent of Wes Anderson. Unabashedly quirky, it explores the eternal question of what makes one happy and how to achieve it.

Director Tan Bee Thiam envisions a parallel Tiong Bahru, where big data and algorithms chart residents’ happiness. Protagonist Ah Bee (Thomas Pang) joins the club as a Happiness Agent after losing his previous job. Initially, his nonchalance and robotic responses clash with the environment. However, as he spends more time with the residents and mentors, he begins to experience unfamiliar emotions that intrigue him. Is it happiness? There’s only one way to find out.

Watch on: Disney+

KEEP THE MOVIE MAGIC ALIVE

HomeTeamNS members, elevate your movie nights with Cathay Cineplexes’ exclusive 1-for-1 movie tickets. Enjoy any movie, any day of the week, at all Cathay Cineplexes across the island. Plus, treat yourself to a delicious snack set with popcorn and drinks for just $6.50 nett (U.P. $10).

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.

Categories
In The Force Featured

Putting their best foot forward for the NDP 2024

Discover the dedication and passion of the Volunteer Marching Contingent, whose efforts make our annual birthday celebration an unforgettable display of unity and pride.

Every year, the National Day Parade (NDP) dazzles Singaporeans with vibrant performances and stunning displays. But behind this grand showcase lies a dedicated group of volunteers who work tirelessly to make this celebration a success. Meet the Volunteer Marching Contingent, an assembly of uniformed officers whose unwavering commitment and hard work make this monumental celebration possible.

The Volunteer Marching Contingent is made up of volunteers from the Singapore Police Force’s (SPF) Volunteer Special Constabulary (VSC), the Singapore Civil Defence Force’s (SCDF) Civil Defence Auxiliary Unit (CDAU) and the Singapore Armed Forces Volunteer Corps (SAFVC). These officers commit to rigorous training and rehearsals to ensure a flawless performance on the big day.

This year, we had the privilege of speaking with Station Inspector (V) Ismail Subari from the VSC and Sergeant (SGT) Sia Chui Jin from the CDAU. They shared their insights into the hard work that goes on behind the scenes.

SI (V) ISMAIL SUBARI: A SEASONED MARCHER

Returning to the Volunteer Marching Contingent after his first participation in 2019, SI (V) Ismail is a familiar face this year.

SI (V) Ismail Subari brings years of experience to the VSC. His journey began in 2000, when he was inspired to get involved by an ex-classmate who is now a full-time Police officer with the Special Operations Command (SOC). This year marks SI (V) Ismail’s second time participating in the Volunteer Marching Contingent. “Participating in the NDP has always been my biggest dream,” the 52-year-old shares.

Q: What motivated you to participate in the Marching Contingent again this year?

SI (V) Ismail: My passion and enjoyment for the event itself. It also gives me the chance to meet and get to know people from all walks of life and different uniformed groups.

Q: Can you share a specific challenge you faced during parade preparations, and how you overcame it?

SI (V) Ismail: Maintaining composure and focus is a constant challenge during parade preparations. It’s essential to manage mental health and stay calm throughout the process. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to stay physically fit and mentally strong. Ensure you hydrate, get plenty of rest and drink lots of water.

Q: How do you balance your volunteer responsibilities for the parade with your personal and professional life?

SI (V) Ismail: I use my personal leave to perform VSC operational duties at the Police Coast Guard every Friday. On Saturdays, I attend the NDP training, while Sundays are for family time.

SI (V) Ismail interacting with fellow volunteers during a rehearsal.

Q: What message would you like to share with others considering volunteering for the NDP or other community service roles?

SI (V) Ismail: Joining the NDP is fun and challenging because you will make more friends. I strongly encourage everyone who meets the minimum criteria to consider joining us as VSC officers. I also hope to see more youth volunteering in uniformed groups to help keep our country safe. If you are ready to volunteer, go enjoy and have fun because the event is just once a year!

SGT SIA CHUI JIN: TAKING A LEAP OF FAITH

SGT Sia standing in front of the SG59 banner.

In contrast, SGT Sia joins the Volunteer Marching Contingent for the first time this year with fresh enthusiasm. “Back in 2019, I found out from social media about the existence of volunteer contingents in the NDP, which really excited me,” shares the 27-year-old CDAU volunteer firefighter. “From that day on, I told myself that at the next opportunity, I would try to be in the Marching Contingent too. I have finally achieved that goal!”

Q: Can you share some memorable moments you’ve had while preparing for the parade?

SGT Sia: My first training was at Seletar Camp, and I didn’t know what to expect. I was surprised by the emphasis on precise timing, drill movements and adherence to the pre-planned training schedule. The trainers were strict yet passionate about moulding us into a cohesive team. As this is my first time participating in the NDP, I was not in sync with the rest initially. But gradually, through intensive training sessions, I am now able to execute the drill movements well.

Q: How do you manage your personal responsibilities alongside your volunteering duties?

SGT Sia: It’s important to plan and prioritise tasks effectively. I set aside weekdays for work and professional responsibilities. I dedicate time for parade preparations on Saturdays, and personal commitments on Sundays to maintain a balanced lifestyle. Keeping my employers, friends and family members informed about my volunteering commitments helps manage expectations and provides additional support.

Q: How has volunteering for the NDP impacted your personal and professional life?

SGT Sia: It has enriched my personal life with unforgettable experiences, lasting memories and a strong sense of accomplishment. Professionally, it has expanded my network by connecting me with individuals from diverse backgrounds and has enhanced my resume by showcasing my commitment, organisational skills and community engagement.

SGT Sia with his fellow CDAU volunteers.

Q: What message would you like to share with others considering volunteering for the NDP or other community service roles?

SGT Sia: Participating in activities like the NDP or engaging in community service can be incredibly fulfilling. It offers the opportunity to be part of a greater cause and positively influence the community. Embrace the chance to create a positive change while enjoying the experience of serving the community.

THE VOLUNTEER ESSENTIALS: WHAT IT TAKES TO SHINE

To be a top volunteer in the parade, certain traits and skills are essential. Here’s what our volunteers have to say.

SI (V) Ismail’s tips

Be 100% mentally ready: Volunteers must stand at attention and march on hot sunny days many times, so everyone needs to be focused and work as a team during the march.

SGT Sia’s tips

Communication and teamwork: Communicate during rehearsals to share weaknesses and strengths to improve and perform together as one.

Flexibility: The ability to adapt to changes is key, as there will always be adjustments to meet the requirements for movements and timing. Good physical health is crucial for long periods of marching and standing.

Join the Home Team Volunteer Network and make a difference in your community today! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to learn more about our 11 different volunteer schemes and how you can contribute.

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.

Categories
Technology

Navigating the mirage: How to spot fake media in the digital age

Deep fake. Deepfake and AI artificial intelligence video editing technology. Face of a person in editor. Machine learning concept. Fraud picture swap.

As technology advances, deepfakes are growing more prevalent — and difficult to detect.

You might have recently seen a video of Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong promoting a crypto investment product, or social media posts of Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung endorsing a health product. Needless to say, these videos and images are fake. As technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) continue to advance, it’s getting harder to tell doctored videos, audio clips, and images apart from genuine ones.

THE IMPACT OF DEEPFAKES

The term ‘deepfake’ refers to media generated by AI-powered tools to resemble a public figure. For example, an original video of a public figure, such as former US president Barack Obama, can be altered. A voice actor’s recording of new words is overlaid on the original video, and AI modifies the figure’s mouth and facial movements to match the new audio, making it appear as if they really said those words.

While such tools have applications in the film industry and other creative fields, their misuse has led to a surge in scams. Last year in Singapore, the number of deepfake cases rose fivefold compared to 2022. Globally, this increase doubled.

Beyond their use to scam victims of money and identities, one major concern with deepfakes is their potential to erode trust and be used by malicious parties to influence public opinion. Deepfake videos and images of public figures supposedly saying inflammatory things can destroy reputations, stir up fear or anger, or even impact a country’s stock exchange. As deepfake technology becomes more common, it’s essential for online users to learn how to distinguish real content from AI-generated fakes.

HOW TO DETECT DEEPFAKES

To determine the authenticity of a video, audio clip, or image, cybersecurity experts use techniques like digital footprint analysis and error level analysis. AI, itself, is also being used to combat deepfakes, in the form of automated deep learning-based deepfake detection systems.

At HTX (Home Team Science and Technology Agency), AlchemiX — which was showcased at the HTX-co-organised Milipol Asia-Pacific – TechX Summit in April 2024 — uses AI to detect deepfakes in audio and video recordings. Users upload the suspicious media file into AlchemiX, which deploys an AI algorithm to assess it for signs of deepfakes. For audio recordings, users can upload an authentic reference file of the original speaker, and the algorithm will compare it to the suspicious recording to find similarities or differences.

For now, deepfake content can often be spotted by laymen, as the technology isn’t yet perfect. Doctored photos might have distorted edges, unnatural shadows, and inconsistent reflections.

Created by the Cybersecurity Agency of Singapore (CSA), the 3A Approach to detecting deepfakes offers a handy list of elements to look out for, as part of its “Analyse audio-visual elements” component. In deepfake videos, you might notice unnatural expressions, a lack of blinking, inconsistent skin texture and tone, or lips not fully synchronised with speech. The background may also appear blurry, out of focus, or distorted.

The next component is to “Authenticate content using tools”. You can examine the media file itself by doing a Google reverse image search to see if a photo was taken from elsewhere and then altered, or check the image’s metadata for information on its creation and modification. However, it is wise to note that metadata can be easily edited or deleted.

WHY CRITICAL THINKING IS OUR FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE

Ultimately, the most powerful tool against deepfakes is critical thinking. Besides analysing and authenticating the media, it is important to assess the message it bears.

First, does it come from a trustworthy source, like a verified news outlet? Or was it forwarded to you on social media with no known original source? The latter would mark it as extremely suspicious.

Do the people in the media behave in ways that are unexpected for them?  For instance, it would not make sense for Singaporean ministers to promote get-rich-quick investment schemes. Similarly, celebrities typically endorse products through their verified social media accounts or in mainstream media, rather than in obscure online advertisements for betting sites or cryptocurrency investments.

Finally, what is the aim of the content? Many deepfake scams involve asking the viewer or listener to purchase an item, download a suspicious app, click on a dubious link, or enter personal information on a website. The CSA recommends asking family and friends to review the content and its claims before taking any action. While today’s deepfakes might be convincing, using the 3A checklist and staying alert can prevent you from falling into their trap.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER A DEEPFAKE

If you come across a video, audio clip, or image that you suspect to be a deepfake, do not just scroll away. Report the fake content to the platform’s administrator to help protect others who might fall for it.

If you’re unsure whether it’s real or a scam, seek advice from the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) Anti-Scam Helpline at 1800-722-6688, or visit the ScamAlert website to learn more about common scams.

Always remember to check with trusted sources if you are uncertain about the authenticity of the media and refrain from forwarding such dubious content to others.

By working together, we can build a more resilient society against malicious deepfakes and their harmful impact.  

You might be interested

Where tech meets tomorrow: Charting the frontiers of HTX’s innovations

Read on

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.

Categories
Close Up Featured

The drug raid that defined his career in enforcement

Superintendent Joey Tan’s first-hand experience on the frontline fuels his passion for formulating effective policies in the fight for a drug-free Singapore.

On a day-to-day basis, Superintendent (SUPT1) Joey Tan’s work at the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) revolves around taking charge and leading the officers of CNB’s Enforcement ‘G’ Division and ensuring its daily operations runs smoothly. But when asked to identify a pivotal moment in his career, he recalls an intense experience as an enforcement officer on the frontlines in the early days of his career in CNB.

During one of his first drug raids, SUPT1 Tan and his colleagues had arrested a female drug trafficker at a hideout, when they noticed signs that she might be caring for a toddler. The woman then revealed during questioning that she had been looking after a one-year-old whose biological mother was on the run for drug-related offences. 

The officers also learnt that the child had been taken away before the raid by two other suspected drug traffickers. “Concerned for the safety of the toddler, we worked tirelessly to mount a follow-up operation to locate the suspects and the child,” recounts the 34-year-old, who is currently the Commanding Officer of CNB’s Enforcement ‘G’ Division. Prior to this, he was the Assistant Director (Drugs, Rehab, and Immigration Research) at MHA’s Criminal Justice and Immigration Research Directorate.

Thankfully, they managed to find the child and arrest the suspects and their accomplices. “A few months after this operation, we also arrested the biological mother of the toddler, who was found abusing drugs while pregnant with another child,” he adds.

Describing the incident as “sobering”, SUPT1 Tan says it was a stark reminder of the devastating impact drugs have on individuals and families. “I often reflect on this operation, which has become a key motivator for why I strive my best towards a drug-free Singapore.”  

DISCOVERING A CALLING IN CRIME FIGHTING

SUPT1 Tan became interested in the world of law enforcement when he served in the Singapore Police Force (SPF) during his full-time National Service stint. He was responsible for ensuring the safety and security of accused persons involved in criminal court proceedings. He also had a hand in assisting the SPF Prosecution Officers.

“It was an eye-opening experience for me as I was exposed to interactions with key persons in the criminal justice system — the judges, prosecutors, attorneys, investigation officers and law enforcement officers responsible for the arrests — all working hard to ensure that justice is properly meted out,” he shares.

Encouraged by the camaraderie among SPF officers, SUPT1 Tan decided to apply for a scholarship with the Home Team and joined CNB in 2016. Although he was already aware of Singapore’s strict drug policies, it was working on the frontlines — first as an investigation officer, then an enforcement officer — that opened his eyes to the realities on the ground. 

“I became more exposed to the devastating impact that drugs can have on individuals, families and communities, and have a better understanding of why Singapore needs a firm stance against drugs,” he says.

SINGAPOREANS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS DRUGS AND MISCONCEPTIONS

While more Singaporeans are taking the issue of drugs seriously, SUPT1 Tan notes that the youth are less likely to perceive the abuse of drugs, particularly cannabis, as harmful. “Drugs are not harmless; scientific studies and real-life examples clearly show the adverse impact of drugs — including cannabis — especially on youth.”

Recalling his days as an enforcement and investigation officer, he shares how he interviewed many drug offenders and witnessed the addictive and harmful nature of drugs. “Repeat offenders who couldn’t break free from drugs had lost everything… Many wished they had never started,” he says.

As such, SUPT1 Tan believes preventive drug education is crucial, especially for impressionable youth. He also emphasises the importance of supporting ex-drug abusers in their rehabilitation journey and aiding the victims of drug abuse.

FROM FRONTLINE WORK TO FORMULATING POLICIES

Supt1 Joey Tan (extreme right) with fellow MHA and CNB colleagues at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime HQ for the Commission on Narcotics Drugs in 2020.

Despite increasingly liberal attitudes towards drugs globally, there is high public support for Singapore’s drug-free approach. The National Council Against Drug Abuse conducted a survey in 2023, in which almost 91% expressed support for Singapore’s drug-free approach and 87% agreed that our drug laws are effective in keeping us relatively drug-free. “This is due to the success of our drug policies and enforcement efforts, which have kept our drug problem relatively under control and our streets safe,” he says.

Supt1 Tan also had a previous stint in CNB’s Policy, Planning and Research Division to expand his experience into drug policy work, where he supports the Division by reviewing and developing drug-related legislation and policies in support of Singapore’s narrative on drug-related matters on a local and international front. A stint at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as a drug researcher further enhanced his ability to formulate evidence-based drug policies suited to Singapore’s context.

Noting the spiralling drug problems in many countries due to liberal drug policies and ineffective enforcement, SUPT1 Tan highlights the significance of maintaining Singapore’s drug-free approach.

“Preventive drug education is our first line of defence in Singapore’s drug control strategy. It’s crucial to continually remind each new generation why we take a firm stance against drugs and what is needed to keep Singapore safe and secure. Initiatives like CNB’s DrugFreeSG campaign raise awareness of the dangers of drugs and encourage the community and youths to lead drug-free lives,” he says.

“I look forward to gaining further exposure to different functional areas in CNB and the Ministry of Home Affairs to deepen my understanding of our comprehensive efforts against drug abuse and to contribute as much as possible to our anti-drug cause.”

You might be interested

Paws and Order: A police officer and his canine companion on duty

Read on

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.

Home

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

Follow us on

Facebook Instagram Youtube Linkedin Telegram