Mr Raj Joshua Thomas, President of Security Association (Singapore)

My parliamentary colleague, Associate Professor Razwana Begum and

Friends from both Temasek Polytechnic and the security industry

1. Good morning. I am pleased to join you here today as we celebrate and recognise the extraordinary and often underrated achievements of Singapore’s Security Officers. In Singapore, everyone says that it is a safe and secure country. This is because we have these three things in place:

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The laws in place

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Law abiding citizens

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People in the security industry who keeps us safe and secure

2. The security industry is more than just a protective force. It plays a key and vital role in keeping Singapore safe and secure. Security Officers like you present here are steadfast guardians who work tirelessly, often without recognition, to safeguard our nation’s safety and security. You exemplify vigilance, professionalism, and integrity, serving as frontline guardians of our way of life. Whether securing our airports, patrolling our streets, or safeguarding our homes and businesses, they demonstrate courage and dedication. You are the unsung heroes who ensure our daily lives continue uninterrupted, protecting our communities, critical infrastructure, and public spaces. You are often also the first responders to an emergency.

3. Today’s awards ceremony is a significant as we shine the spotlight on those who have gone beyond the call of duty. Each recipient here is a symbol of excellence within our security forces – individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery, resourcefulness, and compassion in challenging circumstances. Your actions exemplify the strength of our security framework and the resilience of our nation.

4. As we all know, there may be different challenges and incidents every other day, but it also reveals the explementary courage and bravery from security officers – the true heroes in every sense.

5. Let me share with you the story of two heroes.

6. On 5 April 2024, Senior Security Officer Mr Teo Chiew Seng from Dragnet Smartech Security Pte Ltd was on duty at the Oasis Terrace Basement carpark when he responded quickly to a critical incident. With decisive action and determination, he broke three fire extinguisher glass cases and utilised three fire extinguishers to put out the fire. Despite sustaining minor injuries, his bravery and quick thinking prevented the fire from spreading to other vehicles and properties. Mr Teo’s actions are a shining example of extraordinary courage and commitment to public safety. He has also earned a commendation from HDB. I am happy to be able to present Mr Teo with the SAS President’s Medal for Professionalism.

7. In recognising that there are many more security heroes among us, the Security Association Singapore (SAS) has introduced two new award categories this year: Auxiliary Police Officer of the Year and Outstanding Auxiliary Police Officer to recognise the work of those in the auxiliary police forces as well. The Auxiliary Police play an equally important role in our keeping Singapore safe. Your strong presence at events, festivities, government offices and the Parliament house provides us with a peace of mind.

8. This year, I am glad to present Staff Sergeant Zulkifli Bin Modh Salleh from Certis Cisco Protection Services Pte Ltd, the Auxiliary Police Officer Award.

9. In the early morning on 5 February 2024, a fire broke out in a laundry area at the Singapore Prison Service, Cluster A. SSG Zulkifli was among the first officers to arrive at the scene of the fire. He bravely battled the flames, ensuring the situation was under control before following evacuation orders. Thereafter, SSG Zulkifli continued to display remarkable vigilance by assuming a leadership role in managing the team that guarded the exit door gate to the laundry area, effectively maintaining security and order. Good job.

10. At the same time, as a strong testament to the longstanding relationship with Union of Security Employees (USE) and in acknowledgement to USE’s contribution to the industry, SAS has also named the largest category of awards the “USE Outstanding Security Officer Award”.

11. To all award recipients, I offer heartfelt congratulations. Your hard work, dedication and commitment have not gone unnoticed. You embody the highest standards of professionalism and service excellence, setting an example for all.

12. I would also like to express my deepest appreciation to the families and loved ones of our security officers. Your unwavering support enables them to serve with a peace of mind and dedication. I would also like to take the chance to recognise the good work done by the Union of Security Employees (USE). As you can see, behind every successful officer is a strong network of support. We recognise and thank you for your sacrifices and support.

谢谢

terima kasih

நன்றி

13. As we celebrate today’s achievements, let us renew our commitment to supporting you, our security officers. You are the backbone of our nation’s security framework, and your contributions are vital to our continued prosperity and stability. Let us honour your service by ensuring your receive the resources, training, certifications, and respect you deserve.

14. Together, let us all move forward in unity, working towards a safer and more secure future for generations to come.

15. Thank you.