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Month: September 2024

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Shape Up

The REAL deal: Gearing up for the HomeTeamNS REAL® Run

From training tips to dietary advice, get race-ready with our ultimate guide to the REAL® Run.

Even the most seasoned marathoner starts with a single step – and for many runners, the HomeTeamNS REAL® Run might be their first race. Luckily, Fitness Workz instructor Soo Wei Jun, 21, is here to offer encouragement: “Finishing the race is an achievement in itself,” he says. “Believe in yourself and enjoy the journey.” Here are his tips to help you get race-ready.

BEFORE THE RUN

If you’re aiming for a personal best in the 10km race, incorporate interval training — short bursts of high-intensity running followed by rest — to boost your speed. “This enhances your anaerobic capacity and helps improve your performance,” Wei Jun explains.

For less-experienced runners, it’s important not to overexert yourself before the race. Instead, build your stamina gradually with manageable runs to minimise the risk of injury.

Make sure to stay well-hydrated before the race as well as proper hydration is crucial, especially in hot weather. “Drink water before, during and after your run to prevent dehydration,” Wei Jun advises. “The day before, consider including electrolyte-rich drinks if needed.”

On race day, eat a light, balanced breakfast — such as oatmeal, toast or a smoothie — two to three hours before the start to fuel your body. “This gives your body time to digest and convert food into energy for the run,” he explains. And don’t forget to stretch before the race, focusing on your knees, hips, shoulders and neck to prevent tension during the run.

DURING THE RACE

Despite the heat and muscle fatigue, you might feel compelled to push yourself to meet your goal time. However, this can be dangerous and lead to injury, warns Wei Jun. Overexertion may also lead to rhabdomyolysis, where muscle breakdown causes the release of toxic chemicals into the bloodstream. If you experience very dark urine, pain at rest, or muscle weakness, stop and seek medical attention.

Instead, Wei Jun suggests striking a balance: “Listen to your body, monitor your breathing, recognise signs of fatigue or discomfort, and adjust your pace accordingly,” he emphasises. “This allows you to maintain a sustainable effort without compromising on performance.”

For those participating in the 1.6km Fun Walk with older relatives or young children, the focus shifts to preventing overheating. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, hats and snacks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes.

To keep kids engaged during the walk, Wei Jun suggests turning it into a fun family activity: “Incorporate games or challenges to make the experience enjoyable,” he suggests. For example, you can ask them to count red cars or people with hats or complete the provided task card together for a chance to win a prize.

AFTER CROSSING THE FINISH LINE

After the race, runners should prioritise a proper cool-down to help their muscles recover and prevent stiffness, says Wei Jun. “This can include light jogging or walking, followed by gentle stretching.”

Once you’ve cooled down, enjoy a balanced meal and hydrate to replenish your energy. Wei Jun recommends foods rich in protein and carbohydrates, such as lean chicken breast with rice, fish with pasta or snacks like avocados, nut butter and bananas.

If your muscles feel tight and sore post-race, foam rolling can be beneficial, he notes. Research shows it helps enhance muscle recovery and maintain performance.

After the event, take a well-deserved break before resuming your regular exercise routine. “Resting allows your body to recover fully, reducing the risk of injury and improving performance in future races,” advises Wei Jun.

He hopes these tips will boost success for REAL® Run participants while making the experience enjoyable. “Remember, every runner starts somewhere. Your participation in the race is a testament to your dedication and effort,” he adds.

PREP AND RECOVER AT HOMETEAMNS

  • To get race-ready, head to your nearest HomeTeamNS clubhouse. At any Fitness Workz gym, located in all four HomeTeamNS clubhouses, you can train for the REAL® Run or other events starting as early as 7am — perfect for squeezing in a workout before work.
  • Choose from a 12-month all-club access pass, a single club membership, or pay per walk-in. HomeTeamNS members enjoy preferential rates.
  • For extra motivation or guidance, explore in-house fitness classes or personal training with our qualified instructors.
  • After the run, cool off and soothe aching muscles with a relaxing dip in a HomeTeamNS clubhouse pool. The infinity pool at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir offers a serene view, while the eco-filtration technology at HomeTeamNS Khatib is gentler on sunburned skin (don’t forget to apply sunscreen before the run!).

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Close Up Spotlight Featured

Bonding across generations: What has changed (and hasn’t changed) about National Service

DAC (NS) Jonathan Wan and SGT1 (NS) Mohammed Fauzi Bin Abdul Aziz share a light-hearted moment, as they recall the unforgettable experiences from their National Service days.

The food may be miles better and the culture less “rabak” (Malay for “wild”) as a whole, but regardless of generation, National Service (NS) remains an essential experience that bestows those who serve with skills for life.

Asked about his first day of NS in 1986, and DAC (NS) Jonathan Wan describes scenes reminiscent of a dramatic adventure film.

He recalls first reporting to the austere barracks-like Central Manpower Base (CMPB) in Dempsey, then bidding goodbye to his tearful grandmother and parents before riding on an RPL (ramp-powered lighter) — an unsheltered landing craft used to transport vehicles — to Pulau Tekong, surrounded fellow enlistees. “I wouldn’t say it was exciting, but it was memorable,” says Jonathan, 55. 

Fast forward to 2007, and SGT1 (NS) Mohammed Fauzi Bin Abdul Aziz, 34, describes a rather different experience when he reported to the Basic Rescue Training Centre (BRTC) at Jalan Bahar. Having heard stories from his father and his older siblings about NS, Fauzi had felt some trepidation, but he was surprised by the tidy cluster of buildings that greeted him. “The facilities were very nice,” he says. “Honestly, when I went in, I was like, ‘Hey, this is like a holiday camp’.”

Jonathan served as a Staff Officer with the Ministry of Home Affairs, while Fauzi served as an Info-comms Operator in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) technology department. But despite their starkly different, decades-apart introductions to NS, both men — in a conversation about their experiences — agree that what remains a constant is how NS serves as a rite of passage.

“I think a lot of the formative skill sets that I learnt while I was at NS gave me the confidence to take me on my next journey in life,” says Fauzi, who, like Jonathan, currently volunteers with HomeTeamNS. 

HOW NS HAS EVOLVED TO MEET THE CHANGING NEEDS OF NSMEN

In the words of Fauzi, NS was more rabak (Malay for “wild”) in the past. “Over the years, training programmes, facilities and even the food have improved,” he says. “As Jonathan mentioned, how the different generations respond to training is very different, so I personally think it’s important that NS is always ready to evolve.”

Technological shifts have also transformed NS experiences, as Jonathan recounts how he had to use physical textbooks, while today’s servicemen get to use digital ones. “We had to go to the store to take our textbooks and bring them back to our bunk,” he shares, adding that the many textbooks on police law were especially heavy.

More importantly, the emphasis on mental health and the well-being of NSmen has grown, fostering a more understanding and supportive environment. Jonathan notes that there are now more resources to address psychological well-being and to understand servicemen’s concerns. “In the past, it was ‘one command, one action’, ‘don’t tell me you can’t’,” he says. 

This shift in mindset is a welcome one, adds Fauzi. “I feel that the increased consideration of NSFs’ well-being now is important, so that no matter an individual’s situation, they will be able to serve NS in the most suitable vocation and still contribute to the nation,” he elaborates.

ACQUIRING SKILLS THAT WILL SERVE YOU FOR LIFE

Despite these changes, the quintessential challenges of NS, such as its physical demands, remain — as Fauzi quips: “Yes, I definitely lost weight. Did I keep it off? No.” 

In secondary school, he had been much fitter, but things took a nosedive in junior college when he became focused on studying for his exams. “I honestly regret this,” he laments. “If I could change my NS experience a little, it would be to prepare a bit more physically. I think things would have been easier.”

Jonathan agrees on the need to be prepared, although having been more active when he was in junior college, he was relatively better able to meet the physical demands of NS. “But of course, we [still] didn’t know what was going to happen in the exercises,” he says.

Even though they served in different vocations, both bonded over how they found confidence through their experiences in NS. Fauzi shares how he not only learnt useful skills like basic first aid and firefighting knowledge from being in the SCDF, but also soft skills like how to work more independently and how to lead a team.

Transitioning from his initial deployment to info-comms operations, he discovered a natural aptitude for communication, and ended up becoming the best trainee in his cohort. “If I didn’t go through NS, I don’t think I’d be doing what I’m doing now,” says Fauzi, who is now a content creator. “NS made me a more self-directed person, able to work towards a goal.”

Likewise, Jonathan shared how as an SPF officer, he interacted a lot with people on the ground. The experience helped him grow and become better at communicating with people from all walks of life. “It gave me confidence,” adds Jonathan, who is now an executive coach and senior consultant.

Their stories converge when they share the profound personal growth and professional development fostered by NS. “The skill sets we picked up will somehow always be useful and relevant to us beyond our time in NS. No matter the vocation, NSFs will have had to learn how to become young adults who are confident leaders,” says Fauzi. 

Joking that perhaps they have the “same genes” despite the generation gap, Jonathan concurred that NS had a very positive impact on him. It offered him a broad spectrum of experiences, from gaining insight into everyday realities to taking on diverse roles such as drafting policy papers and commanding his own unit. “There were a lot of learning points,” he adds. 

A CONTINUING LEGACY

Long after completing their NS, both Jonathan and Fauzi remain actively involved with the Home Team, in particular serving as a volunteer with HomeTeamNS: the former as co-chairman of HomeTeamNS’s Guardians Network and the latter as a member of the HomeTeamNS’s Branding and Publicity Committee. Their ongoing commitment reflects a deep-seated belief in giving back to the community and supporting the next generation of NSmen.

As both put it, NS is “no choice” — but it can be a meaningful experience if one goes in with the right mindset. Fauzi shares that many of the younger Singaporeans he meets through work are understandably apprehensive about NS before enlisting, but an open mind is key. “Go with the intention of learning and even growing up and becoming a better individual. Then you will find that two years will fly by very quickly,” he advises. 

Agreeing, Jonathan notes that his own NS experience was helped by the people who worked with him and mentored him — something he carried on when he became NS Commander of Public Transport Security Command (TransCom) and a mentor. “NS is made meaningful by the people around that make it meaningful, too,” he says. “At TransCom, we mentored [the NSmen] and made sure that their life is interesting and meaningful, and they’re not just ‘passing by’.”

Though rooted in different times and experiences, the meaning both drew from their experiences in NS is what keeps them connected to the Home Team. Says Fauzi: “At the end of the day, you are in control of how to make your NS life more fulfilling. If you want to give back, just do it — there are avenues for you to volunteer with.”

Check out how Jonathan and Fauzi bond over their NS stories:

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Categories
Close Up

Finding Cohesion in a Shared Commitment

For these three Singapore Police Force NSFs, the strength of their friendship and commitment to their work offers on-the-job fulfilment

Serving in the Singapore Police Force (SPF) gave SCCPL Wong Yi Xuan, 20, SC2 Shoban Raj S/O Rajamogn, 22, and SC2 Muhammad Raiyan Bin Abdul Rahman, 21, the opportunity to bond. Though Shoban and Raiyan first met during their basic police training, all three soon became close-knit friends at the SPF Training Command (TRACOM), where they are posted. “In our department at TRACOM, there are only a few NSFs, so we stuck together due to being in the same age group and having similar interests,” explains Shoban. “We have the same kind of humour — we tend to laugh at the same joke, for example.”

DISCOVERING COMMON GROUND AT TRACOM

At work, all three take pride in working together to provide support for trainings, such as the scenario-based assessments (SBA). Behind the scenes, Yi Xuan and Raiyan manage the first aid certifications of SPF officers, while Shoban helps with training logistics, such as the booking of locations.

During the SBA is where the excitement really begins, according to the trio. The NSFs are often called upon to assist in the role-play of the scenarios, giving them an up-close and personal view of the challenging training sessions that turn recruits into SPF officers and leaders.

“Every action goes a long way as there are many courses that our unit runs,” emphasises Yi Xuan. “The scope of each individual course may vary, but all the courses train participants in particular aspects of policing so that they can succeed on the ground. While we may not always get the chance to interact with course participants, we take pride that our roles are integral to the functioning of the SPF, and we try to do the best we can,” Though these officers may not be on the frontline, what they do in the background, makes for the success on the frontline.

“It’s fulfilling to observe how officers grow throughout the days of the course they’re on,” adds Shoban. “You really notice how well they’ve learnt to handle the scenarios by the last day, as compared to their first.”

Outside of daily tasks, there are cohesion activities to look forward to. Raiyan, who has participated in two such activities organised by TRACOM, says that these are a great opportunity to strengthen their teamwork, as well as bond with other NSFs from various departments. 

A recent cohesion event is TRACOM’s TRA-FIT Day, held once a month. “What I like about it is that it is more than just about physical strength; it’s also about teamwork,” says Raiyan. One activity that he took part with Yi Xuan was a stretcher-carrying exercise, where they had to transport a dummy mannequin on a stretcher. “To do it efficiently, we had to coordinate our movements,” he explains.

For Yi Xuan, the learning aspect of the in-service cohesion activities is what he enjoys most. These activities include sharing sessions by officers on new procedures and doctrines in the SPF. “Before NS, we were unaware of the detailed plans in place to ensure a high level of safety in Singapore,” he explains. “These sessions allow us to better appreciate the planning that goes into managing even small-scale cases. The three of us often discuss our thoughts on these procedures and consider the impact on various stakeholders.”

BONDING THROUGH SHARED EXPERIENCES

Apart from training recruits and serving officers, TRACOM also handles events and ceremonies, including large-scale occasions like this year’s Police Day Parade held on 3 June at the Home Team Academy.

“One misconception that people have about TRACOM is that we only handle training and nothing more. But a lot of time and effort is put into these events that people might not be aware of. Officers spend weeks — sometimes even months — preparing for these events which can extend to late evenings,” Shoban explains.

Collaborative efforts on such large-scale events also strengthen their bonds. During the organisation period for the recent Police Day Parade, Shoban and Yi Xuan were placed on the mobile column committee, which handles a segment of the parade showcasing SPF vehicles. Knowing that Yi Xuan lives far away from the Home Team Academy where TRACOM is based, Shoban saved him the additional commute by volunteering to take on tasks that involved a later departure time.

Having an up-close perspective of the Police Day Parade was also very rewarding. “Seeing how the participants trained for weeks and weeks to perfect the mobile column was truly impressive,” says Shoban. “The rehearsals were long and tiring, but overall it was an enjoyable experience and I hope that I will be able to be part of this committee again next year.”

LOOKING BACK ON THEIR NS JOURNEY — AND TO THE FUTURE

When it comes to NS, the trio deeply value the new skills and competencies they’ve acquired. Yi Xuan, whose term of NS full-time service is ending soon, hopes to pass down his departmental role and learnings to the next NSF taking over him.  “Through the time from entering my unit as a trainee till now, I’ve learnt many new hard and soft skills, and it will be meaningful to impart some of these skills to my understudy,” he says, adding that he is also hoping to complete a Robotic Process Automation (RPA) project that he is undertaking with Shoban. The two were sent for an introductory course on RPA last year, where they learnt how to use the software UiPath to develop bots. “For the remainder of my NS journey, I intend to further refine my skills in this aspect, while working on completing the project,” he concludes.

Raiyan’s goal for the remainder of his time in NS is to continue looking for ways to streamline work processes to ensure that the department can continue delivering outcomes in an effective and efficient manner. “I hope to pass on the important work that we do to a future batch of NSFs, while maintaining the same standards that we are proud to uphold.”

According to Shoban, the trio are fulfilled by how their work impacts preparing officers for their duties around Singapore. Citing a recent case in the news earlier this year where the attending officers had undergone a Division Special Task Force (DSTF) course beforehand, he says that knowing the officers’ training had helped them to save lives was a great feeling. “Sometimes we forget the significant impact we can have in preparing officers for their field duties,” he reflects. “Though the part we play may be small, seeing news like this encourages me to treat my work seriously and makes me proud to be in my department.”

You might be interested

Police Day 2024: A Salute to Valour and Vigilance

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Spotlight Club Buzz

From Father to Son: Passing Down the REAL® Run Tradition

COL (NS) Edwan Nizar (Right) and his son, SGT (NS) Muhammad Zidny Ilman (Left), at REAL® Run 2022

For COL (NS) Edwan Nizar, the REAL® Run isn’t just an annual fitness challenge — it’s a celebration of family, fitness, and togetherness.

With more than 15 REAL® Runs under his belt —and running shoes — COL (NS) Edwan Nizar, 51, is a seasoned veteran of the annual HomeTeamNS event. It’s a tradition that he’s eager to share with his children, one of whom has joined him in the last two races.

COL (NS) Edwan Nizar at REAL® Run 2022

Now in its 28th edition, the REAL® Run — short for “Regular Exercise Active Lifestyle Run” — will take place this year at OCBC Square on Sunday, 6 October. The race offers three categories: the 10km race, the 5km race, and the 1.6km Fun Walk, which is perfect for families with kids and seniors. HomeTeamNS members can still register for the 5km and 1.6km Fun Walk categories before 25 September and enjoy special member rates.

JOIN THE R.E.A.L FUN!

1.6km Fun Walk - square

Started as an annual run for Home Team NSmen, REAL® Run has since evolved to include shorter routes for young and senior family members of our NSmen. This expansion promotes the message of “Regular Exercise Active Lifestyle” across all ages — from the youngest to the most senior.

A key highlight for this year’s REAL® Run is the 1.6km Fun Walk, ideal for families, seniors, and those seeking a more relaxed pace. In addition to completing the route, Fun Walk participants will receive a task card with challenges to complete along the way. Completing these tasks will give them a chance to be 1 of 3 lucky winners to win a set of 6 Access Passes to T-Play, Adventure HQ, and Aqua Adventure, worth a total of $839. At the finish line, Fun Walk participants will be greeted with a special “ReRu” plushie — a delightful keepsake that serves as a lasting memory of the event. Additionally, for every child aged 12 and under, one adult can accompany them and walk for free.

WHEN FITNESS IS A FAMILY AFFAIR

Edwan, who looks forward to “good weather, a smooth race, and a fun post-race carnival” this year, has run the last two REAL® Runs alongside his son, SGT (NS) Muhammad Zidny Ilman.

Currently a full-time business administration student at the National University of Singapore, 24-year-old Zidny was persuaded by his father to sign up for their first REAL® Run together in 2022.

“I encouraged him to join because we’re both part of the Home Team, and he could also represent his Singapore Police Force (SPF) TransCom NS unit at the same time,” Edwan recalls. “It’s special for an NSman father and his NSF son to run together in the REAL® Run, and I’m grateful we get to share this experience year after year.”

SGT (NS) Muhammad Zidny Ilman at REAL® Run 2022

Edwan, a real estate salesperson in civilian life, is a devoted father to four children: Zidny, 23-year-old Hani Bisyri, 17-year-old Muhammad Ilhan Fakhry, and 14-year-old Muhammad Afnan Zikry.

Together with his wife, Madam Rahayu Rawi, Edwan enjoys brisk walks or runs every weekend along the park connectors near their home. When time permits, the children join them for these family workouts.­

“Last year, my wife and youngest son took part in the REAL® Run 5km event,” he proudly shares. “Running is a healthy way for us to bond as a family, and it keeps us away from our mobile devices for a while.”

(From Left to Right) Muhammad Afnan Zikry, Muhammad Zidny Ilman, Edwan Nizar, and Madam Rahayu Rawi, getting ready for REAL® Run 2023

BONDING THROUGH RUNNING

To prepare for the REAL® Run, Edwan runs at least twice a week, although he doesn’t follow a strict training routine. Instead, he enjoys mixing things up with running, interval training, and brisk walking.

“Over the years, the REAL® Run routes have changed, but the Sentosa course is one I’ll never forget,” he says. “The soft, sloping beach sand was a real challenge — my shoes kept getting stuck, and ironically, walking was faster than running!”

As a father-son pair, Edwan and Zidny make it a point to start the race together, but they eventually split to run at their own paces.

“Of course, he’s much faster than me,” Edwan laughs. “But we push each other to go further and faster. After the race, we check in on each other for injuries and share recovery tips.”

Running with his son has taught Edwan valuable lessons in time management, perseverance, and discipline. His advice to other families thinking about joining the REAL® Run is simple: “Just join in and have fun. Run or walk at your own pace—there’s no need to compare yourself to others. We’ll be cheering you on!”

Ultimately, Edwan believes that the REAL® Run is more than just a fitness event  — it’s an opportunity to grow closer as a family and as a community. “The REAL® Run is organised by NSmen volunteers, and many participants come from various Home Team agencies like the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and SPF. Whether you’re running for fun or competitively, there’s a strong bond that forms when you run alongside your mates or your family,” he reflects.

Muhammad Zidny Ilman (Left) and Edwan Nizar (Right) at REAL® Run 2022

Register here for REAL® Run 2024, taking place on Sunday, 6 October 2024 at the OCBC Square. Registration closes on 25 September.

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Singapore Buzz

Sands of care: How to enjoy Singapore’s beaches responsibly

SINGAPORE - 16 JUN 2024: 7pm. A golden sunset reflected on the calm waters of the Palawan Beach is a soothing tranquil scene that boost mental wellness. White thrash bags of collected oil blobs.

In the wake of the oil spill earlier in June, it’s time to take action and help preserve our shores.

On 14 June 2024, a collision between a dredger and a bunker vessel resulted in a 400-tonne oil spill. The closure of several beaches — including those at Sentosa, East Coast Park, Labrador Nature Reserve, and Tanah Merah — made Singaporeans acutely aware of the value of our seaside spaces.

Although the spill has largely been cleaned up — thanks to the efforts of over 700 dedicated individuals — it’s now our turn to show appreciation by taking steps to preserve and protect these precious natural assets. From small gestures to significant efforts, here are some ways you can help keep our beaches safe and pristine for future generations.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen is essential when spending time at the beach in sunny Singapore, but some products contain harmful chemicals that can pollute and damage marine ecosystems.

While many sunscreens are labelled as “reef-safe”, it’s important to note that these claims may be misleading, as they often only address coral reefs and not other aspects of marine life. To minimise environmental impact, opt for mineral sunscreens and avoid those containing ingredients like oxybenzone, benzophenone-1, benzophenone-8, OD-PABA, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, 3-benzylidene camphor, nano-titanium dioxide, nano-zinc oxide, octinoxate, and octocrylene.

DO NOT DISTURB THE WILDLIFE

As you stroll along the beach, you may encounter interesting wildlife. While it might be tempting to pick them up or poke them with sticks, it’s best to observe without touching.

Sometimes, you might uncover creatures when picking up a shell or turning over a rock. Avoid doing so, as they could be dangerous, and you might also be exposing marine organisms to the sun, causing them to dry out. If you accidentally disturb any wildlife, gently return them to where you found them and, of course, never take any home. Most of these creatures require specific ocean conditions to survive and will perish if removed from their natural habitat.

STAY INFORMED

We can develop a deeper love and respect for marine habitats through fun and educational experiences. Why not join a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating oceanic wildlife while receiving expert tips on how to spot and interact with them responsibly? Discover why lifting wildlife out of the water or relocating them to “save” them might be harmful, and why it’s crucial to wet your hands first if you ever need to touch them. Our actions can have a significant impact on these small native species, and such tours will inspire us to protect them whenever possible.

RESPECT SIGNS AND TRAILS

In Singapore, the authorities continuously monitor the oceanic ecosystem, including changing conditions that can affect both nature and visitors. Beaches are particularly sensitive to climate shifts and human activity, which is why it’s important to heed official signs and stick to designated trails. By doing so, you’re not only protecting the fragile environment but also safeguarding yourself from potential accidents or unseen dangers, such as polluted waters.

LEAVE WITH MEMORIES, NOT FOOTPRINTS

The beach ecosystem is delicate and even the most innocent activities can disrupt its balance. For example, building sandcastles may unintentionally harm underground wildlife or destroy their habitat. If you do engage in such activities, be sure to restore the area to its original state before you leave. In the case of sandcastles, level the sand and fill in any holes you’ve created.

When it comes to recreation or exploration, stick to designated areas to minimise your impact. Facilities like barbecue pits, wash points, and benches are thoughtfully placed to minimally disturb the environment, so using them ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.

DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY

It is essential to properly dispose of all trash while at the beach. Sometimes, bins near busy areas may become full. Instead of trying to force in your waste, find the next available bin. Overfilling a bin can lead to ruptured bags, which create more mess, or loose packaging and waste being blown back onto the beach, potentially leaching harmful chemicals into the environment. Food waste can also become an issue if not properly wrapped, as it can attract unwanted insects or animals. The best approach is to bring along a garbage bag and dispose of your trash away from the beach whenever possible.

REPORT POLLUTION

Accidents like the one on 14 June can always happen again, especially with Singapore’s busy port. While authorities such as the National Environment Agency (NEA) monitor the waters for pollutants, the public can also play a vital role by reporting any incidents or suspicious conditions. If you notice anything unusual, such as groups of dead fish, an oil sheen, a foul odour, or an odd sighting that you can’t explain, call the NEA hotline at 6225 5632 to alert the officials. Avoid checking on the situation yourself; instead, contact the authorities and let them guide you on the next steps.

KEEP PETS ON A LEASH

While the image of your dog or other pets playing by the beach is endearing, it may not be the best for marine wildlife. Even the most well-behaved animals can become overly curious and disturb creatures along the shoreline and their waste may introduce harmful bacteria into the ecosystem.

Although it’s generally safe for pets to play in the water, keeping them on a leash protects both your fur kids and the environment, as it gives you more control over their activities and helps prevent unintended harm to the environment.

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP

One of the best ways to help preserve our beaches is by participating in clean-up efforts — and it doesn’t have to be a large, organised event. Anyone can volunteer their time by following the Public Hygiene Council’s guidelines and help clear litter or debris at their own convenience. There’s no requirement on how long you need to participate or how much area you need to cover — most importantly, every little bit helps.

If you’re interested in making a bigger impact or meeting like-minded people, check online for local clean-up efforts on platforms like volunteer.sg or Eventbrite.

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