National Service (NS) isn’t just a rite of passage, it can also offer lifelong lessons in leadership. Two NS officers from the
Fostering camaraderie and Home Team spirit – that’s what Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police (DAC) (NS) Darric Teo is committed to doing as NS Commander of Jurong Police Division. Under his guidance, Jurong Police Division received the Best NS Operationally Ready Unit Award at this year’s Police Day Parade, held on 3 June at the
DAC (NS) Teo believes that NSmen thrive when they receive encouragement and are empowered to fulfil their duties. PHOTO: Muhamad Khair
“Communication is key,” said DAC (NS) Teo in response to what it takes to build a culture of inclusiveness. “If we’re able to communicate the collective mission of the Home Team to our NSmen, and come together as one, we can achieve our goals.”
DAC (NS) Teo is keenly aware of his responsibilities in shaping the NSmen into a cohesive unit and helping them to commit to a larger purpose. “It’s not just about you or me,” he said. “It’s about us, as a team.”
With NSmen deployed on the ground and working closely with full-time officers, safety is another of DAC (NS) Teo’s top priorities. “That’s why proper training is so important – it prepares us to be effective Police officers on the ground,” he explains.
In his civilian life, DAC (NS) Teo is a senior manager at a logistics firm. Asked how he felt about receiving the Best NS Operationally Ready Unit Award, he credited the team at Jurong Police Division as the deciding factor.
“Our regulars and NSmen have worked hard to achieve this milestone, together,” he said with a note of pride. “I know we’ll continue to give our best to ensure a safe and secure Singapore.”
Bringing His A-GameAlso in the spotlight at this year’s Police Day Parade was Superintendent of Police (SUPT) (NS) Mohamed Khaliq Bin Mohamed Ridwan of the Police Coast Guard (PCG). He was one of the five recipients to receive the Police NSMan of the Year Award for his exemplary leadership and performance.
SUPT (NS) Khaliq feels proud to be part of a team of NSmen who aspire to be the best. PHOTO: Muhamad Khair
“I never expected to receive the Award because I’ve just been doing my duty,” SUPT (NS) Khaliq shared. “It’s a testament to the guidance of my NS and PCG commanders; they pushed me in the right direction.”
When duty calls, NS officers are as committed as their counterparts. SUPT (NS) Khaliq recalled how his team were tasked to safeguard coastal areas where watersports were being conducted during the 2015 Southeast Asian Games. Though the shifts were long, the team remained vigilant.
SUPT (NS) Khaliq made sure his teammates not only received sufficient food and water, they also had enough rest. “There were times when we were on duty for many hours,” he recalled. “I needed to make sure their morale remained high, so that we could perform our jobs well.”
Taking the lead comes naturally to SUPT (NS) Khaliq; as a Supervisor with a global tech firm, he manages a team of 35 technicians. “With the support of my company and colleagues, I can do my NS duties without worry,” he shared. “I’ll continue to give my very best as an NS officer.”
Police Day Parade 2019The Police Day Parade marks a special day for all SPF officers as they celebrate their achievements; recognise the contributions of past and present officers; renew their pledge to serve the nation; and carry out their duties with courage, loyalty, integrity and fairness. Find out more about Police Day Parade 2019
here.
