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Month: February 2025

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Club Buzz Featured

Treat Yourself: Exclusive Home Team Day Perks for Our Everyday Heroes

From dining treats to special promos, Home Team Day celebrates the dedication of Home Team officers and NSmen with privileges that let you indulge, relax, and reconnect.

Launched last year to commemorate the 27th anniversary of the Home Team concept, Home Team Day returns on 24 February 2025 for its second edition. This special occasion recognises the tireless dedication and sacrifices of Home Team officers and NSmen, who work around the clock to safeguard Singapore.

In commemoration of Home Team Day, HomeTeamNS members can rejoice with a line-up of exclusive privileges for dining, entertainment, lifestyle, and clubhouse facilities. Think discounted activities, mouthwatering dining deals, and enriching experiences to enjoy with family and friends!

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.

PLAY MORE, SPEND LESS: 50% OFF ACTIVITIES

From adrenaline-pumping adventures to splashing good times, HomeTeamNS clubhouses offer a range of activities to suit every interest — and from 24 February to 30 April 2025, it’s all 50% OFF for members. Here’s what you can enjoy:

If your idea of fun includes fitness, head to Fitness Workz gyms at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir, Khatib, and Bukit Batok — also at half the price during this period.

Why you should treat yourself: When was the last time you and your NS buddies caught up beyond a WhatsApp chat? Now’s your chance to reconnect — whether it’s a paintball showdown, a friendly futsal match, or an exhilarating day at Aqua Adventure.

Pro tip: Extend the fun with a post-activity hangout. Kick back in the cosy ManCaves at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir or Khatib, also at 50% OFF.

GOOD DEALS AHEAD: SAVE WHILE YOU SHOP

Which Singaporean doesn’t love a good bargain? Whether you’re purchasing household necessities, saving up for a major purchase, or simply indulging in a spot of impulsive retail therapy, getting a discount is always cause for celebration.

Check out these wallet-friendly exclusives:

  • Shopee: $15 OFF for new users, no minimum spend required. Existing users receive a $5 OFF $50 voucher, limited to 1 per year.
  • POLWEL: Collect your favourite Singapore Police Force (SPF) vehicles in diecast miniatures or snap up some SPF-themed merch, with $24 OFF every $100 spent.
  • KITH by Casa: Take your home cooking up a notch with 20% OFF all products, from smokeless grills to coffee accessories.

FEAST MODE: DINING DEALS THAT DELIGHT

From crispy pratas to appetising Korean cuisine, Home Team Day serves up plenty of reasons to treat your taste buds. Here are just some of what’s cooking: 

Why you should treat yourself: Food isn’t just fuel — it’s how Singaporeans bond. Whether it’s a hearty meal with family or a long-overdue catch-up with friends, these deals make dining out even sweeter. And hey, dessert might be optional, but the memories are guaranteed.

LEVEL UP YOUR LIFE: THRILLS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES

Ready to step out of your comfort zone or finally check off those bucket list goals? Home Team Day’s lifestyle and enrichment perks let you explore new passions, unwind, and create unforgettable memories.

  • Set sail: Hanako Luxuries offers 20% OFF yacht rentals — sunset views included.
  • Relax and recharge: SG Paincare’s $20 package includes a consultation and Qi’Nergy Paincare Tuina session.
  • Drive with ease: Getgo Carsharing offers $15 OFF your first drive and 10% OFF subsequent charges.
  • Step back in time: Enjoy 25% OFF the Singapore Residents rate at Jewel Changi Airport’s Jewel-rassic Quest.
  • Learn to save lives: Get 10% OFF courses and a FREE Psychological First Aid course worth $327 upon enrolment at Singapore First Aid Training Centre. Learn more about fire and medical safety, or customise a training programme to suit your needs with 20% OFF training courses at COSEM.

Why you should treat yourself: Life’s too short not to try new things. Whether it’s sailing the seas, perfecting your baking skills, exploring prehistoric wonders, or picking up life-saving knowledge, now’s the perfect time to make 2025 a year of growth and adventure.

To all our Home Team officers and NSmen — thank you for your dedication and service.

DON’T MISS OUT ON ALL THE FUN

For a full list of Home Team Day 2025 privileges, check out the details here. Explore the revamped HomeTeamNS Rewards+ for even more perks available all year round.

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.

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Singapore Buzz Featured

Breaking the Cycle of Bullying

How parents can support their child against school bullying — and guide them to recognise and reject such behaviour.

A boy is filmed being slapped and kicked by other youths. A girl is taunted by classmates who call her “ugly.” These aren’t just fleeting moments of cruelty — they leave lasting scars on the victims, chipping away at their confidence and sense of safety.

Such incidents, once hidden behind classroom walls, now surface in viral videos online, sparking outrage and highlighting the harsh reality of school bullying. But beyond the headlines and social media debates, the victims continue to struggle — often in silence — with anxiety, isolation, and self-doubt.

According to Ms Sim Si Lin, Senior Clinical Psychologist at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH), bullying is a form of aggressive behaviour where an individual intentionally causes harm or discomfort to another person — and it can take many forms. It may be verbal, with name-calling, insults, and threats. It can also be physical, such as shoving or hitting. In some cases, bullying is more subtle, like exclusion from social groups, persistent harassment, or online attacks.

THE RISE OF CYBERBULLYING

According to the Ministry of Education, reported bullying cases in Singapore have remained steady over the past five years, averaging two per 1,000 students in primary schools and six per 1,000 students in secondary schools annually.

While physical bullying grabs headlines, cyberbullying is quietly on the rise. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying extends beyond the school, following victims home through social media, messaging apps, and online platforms. The anonymity of digital spaces allows bullies to act without immediate consequences, making the harassment relentless. 

“The IMH team sees quite a fair number of bullying cases, particularly cyberbullying, among children and adolescents,” says Ms Sim. “The discrete nature of cyberbullying, coupled with the features of certain platforms, such as disappearing messages, private chat groups, and anonymity of posts, makes it more challenging for authorities to detect and address these incidents,” she adds. 

As a result, victims may endure hurtful messages, manipulated images, or social exclusion without parents or teachers realising — until the emotional toll has already taken hold.

SIGNS YOUR CHILD MAY BE A VICTIM

Parents who suspect their child is being bullied should look out for certain physical, emotional, and behavioural signs. Ms Sim explains that stress and anxiety from ongoing harassment can manifest as stomach aches, sleep disturbances, and even weakened immunity, making victims more prone to illnesses.

Emotionally, victims often experience:

  • Anxiety — as they anticipate further bullying.
  • Sadness and rejection — from being isolated by classmates.
  • Low self-esteem — as a result of feeling unworthy or unlovable.
  • Self-blame and loneliness — which can impact long-term mental health.

Behavioural changes can include social withdrawal, increased aggression, tantrums, or even regression (e.g., bedwetting).

If parents notice these signs, they should initiate an open conversation to explore potential stressors in their child’s school or social life.

WHAT NOT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD IS BULLIED

When parents discover their child is being bullied, anger is a natural reaction. However, Ms Sim cautions against certain harmful responses:

  • Encouraging retaliation – “While standing up for oneself has its place, encouraging retaliatory actions may escalate aggression or leave the child feeling trapped,” she explains.
  • Blaming the child – Avoid saying, “Did you provoke them?” or “It must be because you’re…” These comments can lead to internalised guilt and self-blame.
  • Dismissing the bullying – Statements like “Maybe they were just teasing you” minimise the child’s distress, eroding trust and discouraging them from opening up in the future.

HOW TO EMPOWER YOUR CHILD

Parents can help their child navigate bullying by following these strategies outlined by Ms Sim:

  • Practice active listening – Give your child undivided attention, and ask open-ended questions like “What hurt you the most?” or “How do you feel about what happened?”
  • Offer physical comfort – A hug or reassuring words can help them feel supported.
  • Encourage problem-solving – Guide them in brainstorming solutions, rather than solving the issue for them.
  • Build resilience – A child raised in a safe, loving family environment is more likely to develop emotional resilience, helping them cope with adversity.

WHY SOME KIDS BECOME BULLIES

While parents don’t want their child to be bullied, they also don’t want them to become bullies themselves. According to Ms Sim, children may bully due to unmet emotional needs.

  • Some children who were bullied themselves may resort to bullying others to regain a sense of control.
  • A child who feels frustrated, lonely, or rejected may turn to aggression as an immediate outlet.
  • Environmental influences, such as exposure to family conflict or aggressive role models, can also normalise bullying behaviour.

HOW TO TEACH KIDS THAT BULLYING IS WRONG

One of the most effective ways to prevent bullying is to teach empathy from an early age. Parents can:

  • Read books or watch videos on the subject and discuss the emotions of the victims.
  • Ask reflective questions, such as “How do you think your classmate felt when you called her names?
  • Draw from personal experiences – “Remember how upset you were when someone did that to you?”

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHILD IS ACCUSED OF BULLYING

If a parent is told that their child has bullied a schoolmate, Ms Sim advises against reacting with immediate scolding or punishment. “Such reactions send the message that a third party’s account is more important than your child’s perspective, potentially closing off vital communication,” she points out. Instead, parents should:

  • Stay calm and listen – Approach the situation with curiosity, asking open-ended questions to understand their child’s emotions and intentions.
  • Identify the underlying cause – “Often, a child’s behaviour stems from innocent intentions, such as frustration with a situation, but may be expressed inappropriately,” Ms Sim explains.
  • Guide them towards responsibility – Encourage your child to apologise, repair relationships, and understand the impact of their actions.
  • Set appropriate consequences – “Parents should enforce consequences for bullying while explaining why such behaviour is unacceptable,” says Ms Sim. “They should balance this with reassurance of their unconditional love to help the child learn without feeling shamed.”

Bullying in schools is a serious issue, but parents can play a proactive role in both protecting their children and preventing them from becoming bullies. By fostering open communication, emotional resilience, and empathy, families can help break the cycle of bullying — and create a safer, kinder environment for all children.

WHEN TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP

Counselling and therapy can help children navigate their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.

For victims of bullying

Sadness and anxiety are natural reactions, but if your child continues to struggle emotionally long after the bullying stops or expresses feelings of worthlessness, professional help may be needed. “Additionally, if the child struggles with specific skills, such as assertiveness, professionals can offer targeted support,” says Ms Sim.

For bullies

Bullying behaviour often signals unmet emotional needs or personal struggles. “If you are unable to help your child develop healthier ways to express themselves, seek professional help. This is especially important if aggression is linked to external stressors or persists despite informal intervention,” advises Ms Sim. Therapy can uncover underlying issues and guide children toward positive behaviour.

Useful Helplines 

Tinkle Friend by Singapore Children’s Society
A national toll-free helpline for primary school children.

Tel: 1800-2744-788 (Mon to Fri, 2.30pm to 5pm)

Samaritans of Singapore

Round-the-clock emotional support.
Tel: 1767 (24 hours)
WhatsApp: 9151-1767 (24 hours)

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.

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Club Buzz Featured

A rewarding day out: Earn +HPoints as you shop, dine and play

Spend, Snap and Save!

Discover how the new Spend, Snap, Save! programme turns every adventure, meal and activity at HomeTeamNS into big savings.

Getting rewarded for having fun? Yes, please! HomeTeamNS has made earning and redeeming rewards a breeze with its new Spend, Snap, Save! programme, accessible through the HomeTeamNS mobile app.

Previously, members could only rack up +HPoints through facility bookings and purchases made via the HomeTeamNS website, app, or self-help kiosks. But now, the perks extend to transactions at selected clubhouse tenants, giving you even more ways to earn as you shop, dine and play. All it takes is a quick scan of your hardcopy receipts using the HomeTeamNS app, and voilà — your +HPoints are automatically credited to your account.

HOW SPEND, SNAP, SAVE! WORKS

After spending at a participating outlet, keep your printed receipt. Open the HomeTeamNS app, navigate to the Rewards+ section and tap Upload Receipt. Use your phone camera to scan the receipt, review the details and submit. Your +HPoints will be credited to your account within 24 hours. Every $1 spent earns you 1 +HPoint, and 100 +HPoints can be redeemed for $1 off your future purchases.

Receipts must be uploaded within 24 hours of purchase. A minimum spend of $10 per transaction is required, and receipt submissions are capped at $500 per day.

For facility bookings, the process is even easier — your +HPoints will be automatically credited when you book via the app or website.

For now, only Ordinary, Associate, Family and SAFRA Affiliate members can access and use Rewards+ on the app.

EARN OVER 100 +HPOINTS IN ONE FUN-FILLED DAY AT HOMETEAMNS

Picture this: It’s a sunny Saturday, and you’ve planned an exciting day at HomeTeamNS Khatib with your friend. The agenda? Non-stop fun, delicious food and a little friendly competition. But here’s the best part — by the end of the day, you’ll leave with not only great memories, but also a stack of +HPoints to redeem for your next adventure.

Here’s how your day could unfold: Kick things off at Adventure HQ, a one-of-a-kind indoor playground where the thrills are endless — whether you’re scaling walls or soaring through Singapore’s first indoor Roll Glider. With an Adventure Buddy Pass priced at $88.63, you and your friend get access to all the action while racking up 88 +HPoints.

EARN OVER 100 +HPOINTS IN ONE FUN-FILLED DAY AT HOMETEAMNS

After working up an appetite, head to Burger King for a quick refuel. Two Value Meals at $5.95 each not only satisfy your cravings, but also add 11 +HPoints to your total.

Before calling it a day, hit the lanes at Superbowl. Bowl before 6pm at $24 per lane per hour and score 24 +HPoints! Whether you win or lose, you walk away with 123 +HPoints in total that can be used for your next adventure at any HomeTeamNS clubhouses.

DOUBLE YOUR +HPOINTS FOR A LIMITED TIME

From now till 22 March 2025, your rewards are doubled at participating HomeTeamNS clubhouse outlets! Earn 20 +HPoints for every $10 spent by simply uploading your qualifying receipts by the deadline. Terms and conditions apply.

HOW TO MAXIMISE YOUR SAVINGS

Earning +HPoints is great, but making the most of them means even bigger savings. Start by using your +HPoints when paying at participating outlets — just tap Save Using +HPoints in the HomeTeamNS app, and the redeemed value will be applied automatically.

Stack your +HPoints redemptions with vouchers, such as those earned through LifeSG Credits, for even more discounts. For instance, every $50 spent via LifeSG Credits at HomeTeamNS facilities from now till 30 November 2025 earns you a $5 return voucher.

Let’s say you and a friend visit Aqua Adventure, the indoor water adventure centre at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir. Two member passes cost $50. You can apply a $5 voucher and redeem 200 +HPoints (equivalent to $2), reducing your payment to $43. You’ll also earn 43 +HPoints on this transaction — setting you up for more savings in the future.

A bonus perk for SAFRA Members: You can also earn +HPoints at participating HomeTeamNS outlets and redeem them for HomeTeamNS facility bookings. However, do note that facility bookings made at HomeTeamNS clubhouses won’t earn SAFRA members +HPoints.

Whether you’re shopping, dining, or enjoying a day of fun, every transaction helps you earn more rewards — turning your time at HomeTeamNS into a truly rewarding experience.

WHERE TO EARN AND REDEEM +HPOINTS

On top of HomeTeamNS clubhouse facilities, here’s where you can earn and redeem +HPoints for transactions over $10 in a single receipt:

HomeTeamNS Khatib

  • Dining:
    • Burger King
    • Orchid Live Seafood
    • Saizeriya
    • Siam Kitchen and Suki Suki Hotpot
    • Yoshinoya Singapore
  • Entertainment and Education:
    • Dancepointe/ Kidz Education City
    • Jewel Music Box @ Khatib
    • Superbowl

HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir

  • Dining:
    • Burger King
    • Fun Toast
    • Georges
    • Sum Dim Sum

HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok

  • Dining:
    • Heavenly Wang
    • Karu’s Indian Banana Leaf Restaurant
    • KFC
    • Saizeriya
    • Swatow Seafood
  • Entertainment and Education:
    • Aspire Cuesports
    • Berries World of Learning School
    • Starbowl
    • Ossia Music School

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.

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In The Force Featured

Engineering the future: How SCDF officers are unlocking the power of Gen AI

From left: SGT3 Khairul Roshdie Bin Mohd Roslan, WO1 Md Na’im Zahari and LTA (NS) Ryan Wee Khai Boon embarked on a journey to explore Gen AI and its potential to enhance SCDF operations.

From learning the ropes to winning national competitions, three SCDF officers are leading the charge in using generative artificial intelligence to streamline processes and foster innovation.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised industries worldwide, and within the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), its potential is beginning to unfold. By leveraging resources like GovTech’s Prompt Engineering Playbook, SCDF officers have ventured into the world of generative AI (Gen AI), reimagining workflows, solving real-world challenges and inspiring others to embrace innovation.

But what exactly is Gen AI, and how does it work? At its core, Gen AI is powered by large language models (LLMs) capable of generating human-like text — writing that mimics the way people naturally communicate — images and even audio. Its true power lies in prompt engineering, which is the process of crafting detailed instructions to guide the Gen AI in producing accurate and useful outcomes. A well-structured prompt, for example, could even help design a strategy for emergency response scenarios.

To foster interest and build expertise in this emerging field, SCDF has introduced initiatives like the Prompt-a-thon and GovTech’s Prompt Royale X. These competitions encourage participants to solve real-world problems using prompt engineering, while nurturing a culture of innovation within the force.

Among the SCDF officers exploring this technology are WO1 Md Na’im Zahari, SGT3 Khairul Roshdie Bin Mohd Roslan and LTA (NS) Ryan Wee Khai Boon. Their journey — from AI novices to enthusiastic learners experimenting with Gen AI — demonstrates how technology, when paired with curiosity and collaboration, can drive innovation.

DISCOVERING THE POTENTIAL OF GEN AI

SGT3 Khairul Roshdie Bin Mohd Roslan (left), a HazMat Specialist, and WO1 Md Na’im Zahari (right), a Fire and Rescue Specialist and Emergency Medical Technician from Tampines Fire Station, honed their prompt engineering skills and motivated each other through competitions.

For Khairul and Na’im, their first encounter with Gen AI came during GovTech’s Data Arcade Tournament (DAT) X ImpactiViz in 2023. The challenge required participants to analyse data on out-of-hospital cardiac arrests and propose strategies to improve survival rates by enhancing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) training for bystanders.

Despite having no prior experience in data analytics, the duo quickly adapted with the help of Gen AI. “We taught ourselves data visualisation, and used Gen AI to help simplify complex topics by breaking them down,” Khairul says. “The learning curve was not as steep as I expected — it was actually easier than I thought, thanks to Gen AI guiding us through the different tools.”

Na’im agrees, adding: “It’s like talking to a person. You can ask questions, and the AI will guide you step by step until you master the subject.” He also highlights how Gen AI has made learning more accessible. “You can use it to teach yourself in subjects that you might not be well-versed in. As such, solutions can come from the ground up, where SCDF officers work together across different units and brainstorm ideas.”

Their efforts paid off when they clinched second place out of 400 teams. The experience inspired them to deepen their knowledge of Gen AI. “After the competition, we got serious and enrolled in courses to learn prompt engineering properly,” Khairul shares with a laugh.

LTA (NS) Ryan Wee Khai Boon, a Staff Officer from SCDF’s Human Resource Department, began using prompt engineering to explore unfamiliar topics and later applied it to his work.

Meanwhile, Ryan began his Gen AI journey at an SCDF-organised workshop, where he learned how to craft structured prompts to generate text, images and audio. He cited frameworks like CO-STAR (Context, Objective, Style, Tone, Audience, Response) and GCSE (Goal, Context, Source, Expectations) as essential tools for success.

“I prefer the GCSE framework,” he explains. “It helps you clarify your goal, provide relevant context and specify how the output should look. It’s impressive how Gen AI delivers accurate results in minutes when given clear instructions.”

INNOVATING FOR REAL-WORLD IMPACT

Eager to apply their newfound skills, the trio joined SCDF’s Prompt-a-thon, an initiative by SCDF’s Transformation and Future Technology Department (TFTD) aimed at upskilling SCDF officers in Gen AI. Their task: To use Gen AI to analyse SCDF’s response to medical emergencies. “In the simulated scenario, we saw how Gen AI could streamline workflows, potentially saving 3,000 man-hours per year,” Na’im explains. “This would allow us to focus on other operational duties.”

Building on their success in Prompt-a-thon, they set their sights on GovTech’s Prompt Royale X competition in November 2024. The national-level event featured a gamified format that challenged participants to innovate using prompt engineering. “It was exciting to know that the competition would take prompt engineering to the next level,” Khairul shares. “We were determined to participate and challenge ourselves.”

As part of the first round, SCDF held an internal selection to determine its top representative for the competition. Around 80 officers from various units took on a simulation challenge: To establish a new fire station using Gen AI. Among the participants was 19-year-old Ryan, the youngest competitor and the only full-time National Serviceman.

SCDF’s selection round tasked participants with writing proposals, analysing data to determine the best location for a new fire station and building chatbots.

Undeterred, Ryan embraced the challenge with confidence. “As long as you are willing to learn, you can achieve what you initially thought was impossible,” he says. His dedication earned him third place in the competition, with Khairul taking the second spot and Na’im clinching the top.

The camaraderie and collaborative spirit they displayed carried over to GovTech’s Prompt Royale X, where over 1,000 officers from 75 agencies participated. With Na’im advancing to the national finals held at Jewel, he represented SCDF against two other agencies in a series of increasingly difficult tasks.

 In front of a live audience, the three finalists demonstrated their prompt engineering skills through tasks such as generating images, data analysis and designing webpages. 

Recalling the challenges that he faced, Na’im says: “Some tasks were beyond my areas of expertise, so I had to constantly adapt my prompts to ensure concise and factual outputs.”

Khairul and Ryan were in the audience, cheering Na’im on as he competed. “I was on the edge of my seat the entire time,” Khairul recounts. “Na’im was trailing in the initial rounds, and I knew the tasks would become even more challenging.”

When Na’im emerged as the winner, it was a moment of triumph for the entire team. “We erupted with joy,” says Khairul with a smile. “We have watched as he first learnt Gen AI and developed his skills. Now that his efforts have truly paid off, we are incredibly proud of him.”

After five intense rounds, Na’im (fifth from left) emerged as the Prompt Royale X Champion. 

FOSTERING A CULTURE OF LEARNING AND TEAMWORK

Reflecting on their journey, the trio highlighted the vital role of collaboration and support within SCDF. “Our Commander at Tampines Fire Station, MAJ Goh Eng Khye, constantly encourages us to explore innovative solutions and keep learning,” Khairul shares.

Na’im echoes this sentiment, emphasising SCDF’s culture of teamwork. “Innovation here isn’t confined to one fire station. Officers from different units regularly come together to brainstorm and solve problems,” he explains.

Expanding on this spirit of collaboration, Ryan agreed, adding: “Recognising how technology can significantly improve our operational efficiency, we also shared more about Gen AI with various departments, highlighting how it can improve productivity and workflows.” For him, the experience was a meaningful conclusion to his National Service.

Looking ahead, Na’im, Khairul, and Ryan hope to continue integrating Gen AI into their work while inspiring colleagues to embrace collaboration and technology-driven innovation. Ryan also encourages his fellow National Servicemen to explore new skills during their service. “Try it, and you might love it,” he says.

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
Spotlight

Capturing Life’s Big Moments and Small Wonders

Armed with his discerning lenses, INSP (NS) Mohamed Nazirul Mubin Bin Mohamed Yunos finds beauty in both distant landscapes and the everyday details close to home.

While many of us might walk past a hatching butterfly without noticing, INSP (NS) Mohamed Nazirul Mubin Bin Mohamed Yunos, 31, once spent an entire morning observing a pupa, checking it every five minutes as he waited for the butterfly to emerge.

His patience paid off. He photographed the butterfly’s delicate wings as they unfurled, showcasing stunning shades of orange and brown.

This dedication to macro photography is just one part of Nazirul’s passion for capturing life’s beauty, which began when he got his first camera phone at 13. Surrounded by family and friends who were avid photographers — some even professionals — he quickly developed his skills and spent years refining his craft.

CULTIVATING AN EYE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY

For Nazirul, a Senior Executive in Events and Marketing, passion and practice go hand in hand. “Consistent practice ultimately leads to improvement and mastery,” he shares.

His meticulous approach extends to how he prepares for each shoot. As a seasoned NSman — who served as an Assistant Operations Officer in the Central Division during his National Service in the Singapore Police Force and later as an Officer Commanding (OC) Troop at the Protective Security Command (ProCom) — Nazirul is always ready for the outdoors with his camera in tow. “I always bring tissues or a towel in my camera bag,” he says. “My face or hands can get sweaty or dirty, and keeping things dry ensures better control during the shoot.”

Nazirul also applies his organisational skills to his photography portfolio. This year, he hopes to curate a cohesive series with a clear narrative. “I’ve always liked how pictures can capture moments, memories, abstract ideas, and art,” he reflects.

His philosophy on photography? “There are no strict rules for what makes a good photo. As long as you enjoy the process, have fun and love what you do, that’s what matters most,” he says.

Nazirul shares with Frontline some of his most memorable photographs and the stories behind them, offering tips for aspiring photographers along the way.

LIME BUTTERFLY EMERGING ON KAFFIR LIME PLANT

“The butterfly completed all three stages of its life cycle — egg, caterpillar and pupa — right on my kaffir lime plant. Capturing this shot was relatively straightforward because butterflies usually stay still to dry their wings after emerging. However, the real challenge lay in predicting when it would eclose [emerge from its pupa].

When a butterfly ecloses, it has a brief window — usually 30 minutes or less — before taking its first flight, and this can happen at any time. To ensure I didn’t miss the moment, I prepared my camera in advance and checked on the pupa every five minutes. The ideal time to photograph the butterfly is when its wings are freshly eclosed and still wet, as the vibrant colours and contrasts are at their peak. In under five minutes, I captured as many shots as I could from various angles before it started moving and eventually took off.”

COMMON BLUEBOTTLE CATERPILLAR

“A macro lens is essential for photographing insects. It reveals incredible details — like the tiny hairs or thorns on their bodies — that are invisible to the naked eye.

Capturing this shot was particularly challenging due to the caterpillar’s constant movement and the low light conditions, which required using a camera flash and adaptable focus techniques. The caterpillar’s ability to camouflage on its host plant adds to the difficulty of locating it. To improve your chances, look for host plants in parks or less urbanised areas where leaves are less likely to be contaminated by fogging or insecticides. Additionally, understanding the active times and behaviour patterns of both butterflies and caterpillars is crucial for spotting them.”

MEXICAN SUNFLOWER, GROWN FROM SEED

“The best time to photograph flowers is when they’ve just bloomed and there’s good natural light. You can see that the upper side of the sunflower’s leaves exhibit a pattern reminiscent of an urban map.

As an avid gardener, I find great joy in watching plants grow and thrive under my care. When they flourish, it gives me a great sense of achievement. Most of my plants are grown in my home’s corridor. I like to keep plants that stand out in such spaces, like the double-petaled butterfly pea plant, blood flower, banana and variegated monstera, to name a few.”

SUNSET AT THE JETTY

“This photo was taken at a reservoir located about 5 kilometres from HomeTeamNS Khatib. I had just returned home in the evening and noticed that the setting sky had a beautiful orange glow, which is quite uncommon in Singapore. Knowing that the light would peak in about 20 minutes time, I rode as quickly as I could to the location. Though exhausted by the time I arrived, the scene was breathtaking. Armed only with my phone, I captured the moment and enjoyed the sunset.”

SULAWESI, INDONESIA

“My friends and I befriended a local who took us to this island on a traditional boat. We went snorkelling in near solitude, surrounded by untouched, pristine marine life and incredibly soft sand. However, I soon realised I was surrounded by reefs! As I carefully navigated my way back to shore, I paused, looked up and was greeted by this breathtaking view. The serenity of that moment was unparalleled, and I captured this photo to preserve and cherish the unforgettable experience.”

EVENING SKIES IN PENANG, MALAYSIA

“I had just enjoyed some of Penang’s amazing food and was on my way to a shopping mall (to use the toilet, haha). Initially, the view of the sky was blocked by Penang’s iconic alleys of shophouses. But as I crossed the final street, I came across this beautiful sunset and noticed a few others also posing and taking photos. That’s when I took out my phone and snapped the shot. What I love most about this photo is that it didn’t need any filter – that’s exactly how the sky looked!”

MT BULUSARAUNG, SOUTH SULAWESI, INDONESIA:

“That’s me, enjoying the sunrise and resting in the cold. My group of climbing kakis and I climb several mountains in the region every year, and this particular climb was part of our ongoing goal to conquer the Seven Summits of Indonesia. I find mountain climbing to be mentally, spiritually, and emotionally therapeutic, even as it challenges you physically.

We started with a two-day climb at Mt Latimojong followed by a night climb to catch the sunrise at Mt Bulusaraung. Unless you’re super fit and motivated, I wouldn’t recommend attempting what we did – even our guide team thought we were crazy! By the end of the trip, all of us were limping, and the pain lingered for some time.

But what makes these trips so fun is climbing with friends, meeting new people and conquering challenges together – it’s a truly rewarding experience. While photos can preserve those memories, nothing compares experiencing the moments with our own eyes.”

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