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Month: June 2025

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Close Up

Beyond the Uniform: Here’s How This NSF is Giving Back to Society

SC/CPL Ramesh S/O Nagandran leverages his passion for healthcare and sharp communication skills to make a meaningful impact as a hospital volunteer.

For SC/CPL Ramesh S/O Nagandran, balancing the rigours of National Service (NS) with a passion for giving back allows him to discover a deeper sense of purpose as he makes a tangible impact on the lives of others.

A Staff Assistant (Service Delivery & Public Affairs) in the NS Policy and Planning Division in the Police National Service Department (PNSD), Ramesh also dedicates his Saturdays to volunteering at the hospital. His responsibilities include monitoring patients’ blood pressure and acting as a liaison between doctors and nurses.

In one memorable instance, he had to address a patient who came in for knee pain but had an abnormally high blood pressure reading that was far more urgent to treat. “The patient felt dissatisfied that the knee pain wasn’t given enough attention, but in healthcare, we must prioritise the more pressing concerns,” recounts Ramesh.

When patients are anxious or distressed, Ramesh first validates their feelings. He then calmly explains the medical team’s rationale for the recommended treatment options. Building on the communication skills that he developed during his NS, he ensures patients feel cared for and understood.

Ramesh’s passion for helping others began during his school years, where he actively participated in various volunteer programmes both in school and through community initiatives. During NS, he decided to volunteer at the hospital, inspired by his interest in healthcare and his aspirations for a future career in the field.

GAINING SKILLS THROUGH SERVICE

As a Staff Assistant, Ramesh’s duties include preparing events and meetings, doing write-ups and managing queries from NSmen and the public. He is also part of the NS Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) Taskforce. “I enjoy my work as I get to interact with different stakeholders,” he says. “The part that I find most fulfilling is assisting NSmen and members of the public, as I get to hear them out and help them with their problems or concerns.”

Just as his communication skills have proven invaluable during his volunteer work, Ramesh’s experiences giving back to society have also equipped him with valuable capabilities that enhance his contributions in his NS role. “The soft skills I’ve gained at the hospital — like empathy and compassion — are applicable when I deal with the service delivery aspect of my work.”

NS has also shaped Ramesh’s understanding of societal contributions. He recalls a poignant moment during a departmental corporate social responsibility visit to an elderly care centre when the Director of PNSD highlighted the pivotal role of Singapore’s older generation in shaping the nation’s present through their sacrifices and contributions. “I’m grateful for his remarks, which have given me more confidence that my contributions are meaningful and valuable. By contributing to the PNSD and the Singapore Police Force’s vision, I help to ensure Singapore is one of the safest places in the world,’ says Ramesh. “And through hospital volunteering, I am able to support patients, both young and old, and contribute positively to their well-being.”

This conviction motivated Ramesh to participate in engagement sessions with Minister of State organised for NSFs, where he shared his perspectives on healthcare affordability and financing — insights shaped by his hospital volunteering experiences.

He is eager to learn and contribute to discussions on societal issues, so that he can continue to make a positive impact: “Regardless if it’s an issue affecting the entire country or a single individual, I will try my best to assist within my capacity. The aim is to ensure that we Singaporeans move forward as one Singapore and ensure that no one is left behind on this journey.”

THE JOY OF GIVING BACK

Volunteering, Ramesh notes, is as rewarding for the giver as it is for the recipient. Seeing patients recover — especially when conservative treatments succeed, and surgeries are avoided — brings him immense satisfaction. “It is always satisfying and heartening to witness patients’ conditions improve,” he says.

As an aspiring healthcare professional, Ramesh values the mentorship he receives from the medical team he volunteers with, and the opportunity to observe the collaboration required to ensure patient care and recovery.

For those considering volunteering, Ramesh recommends exploring causes that resonate and talking to current volunteers or organisations to understand how they can help. He adds that volunteers shouldn’t question their own ability to contribute or worry about long commitments.  “Any level of contribution is valued. Their efforts go a long way in making a difference even within the scope of their personal capacity,” he says.

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Categories
Family Time Featured

Meet the “Adventure Dads” bonding with their children through dynamic play

For COL (NS) Mohd Khaidir Bin Rahman (left, in navy blue) and LTC (NS) Su Caizheng, parenting is all about diving in — from prawning and pool time to whatever adventure gets the kids grinning.

Bonding styles come in many forms. While some parents find connection over shared meals or family vacations, for COL (NS) Mohd Khaidir Bin Rahman and LTC (NS) Su Caizheng — who both navigate irregular work hours — it’s physical play that best strengthens bonds with their children.

Whether it’s the triumphant hugs after clearing an obstacle course or belly laughs from a trampoline tumble, these dads have discovered that movement fuels more than fun — it forges core memories and nurtures resilience, confidence and empathy in their children.

A DAD WHO’S ALWAYS GAME

Caizheng’s three kids strike a pose with their cousin at one of their all-time favourite hangouts.

Ask LTC (NS) Su Caizheng’s kids which playground is their favourite, and you’ll likely hear: “Daddy’s Playground” — their affectionate nickname for the HomeTeamNS Khatib indoor children playground T-Play. It’s a spot the family visits often, and one that holds special meaning for Caizheng, too. He previously served as Vice-Chairman for HomeTeamNS Khatib’s Executive Committee and now contributes as a member of the Management Committee and Co-Chairman of the Development Committee for the upcoming Tengah Clubhouse, while also sitting on the Strategic Review Committee.

To him, play isn’t just about having fun — it’s a foundation for growth and connection with his son and two daughters. “I want them to grow up adaptable and curious,” he says, adding that he’s always on the lookout for new adventures. “When we try new things, be it a travel experience, a new game or even navigating a crowded MRT station, they learn to embrace the unfamiliar. It builds confidence and openness.”

Whether at home or out exploring, Caizheng cherishes the little moments that reveal who his kids are — and who they’re becoming.

In these playful moments, Caizheng has come to appreciate the unique traits of each child. “My nine-year-old son’s a thinker and is always sharing fun facts about insects or animals we come across. My eldest daughter, also nine — they’re twins — surprises me with her boldness. She’s always asking to try new foods and nudging her younger sister out of her shell,” shares the 41-year-old father, who currently serves as Unit Commander of SCDF’s 32 Rescue Unit. “And at seven, my youngest is the most sensitive and can always pick up when someone in the family is feeling down.”

Despite their different personalities, the trio easily agrees on what to do next, united by their love for adventure. “It’s very democratic,” Caizheng says with a laugh, though he admits that the occasional ice cream bribe helps sweeten the deal.

However, one activity is always unanimous: The claw machine. For Caizheng, even this becomes a life lesson: “I tell them to keep trying, even if it takes ten losses before the prize finally drops.” Those small wins, he says, bring big joy and bring them closer together.

A winning moment for the whole crew — plush toys in hand and smiles all around after a well-spent family day out.

LETTING CURIOSITY LEAD

Through these shared adventures, Caizheng’s children have grown confident enough to pursue their own passions — from taekwondo to ballet — with him right beside them, cheering them on even when it means pushing his own limits.

He once joined his son’s taekwondo classes in 2021 despite an ACL injury, just to help him feel confident in a new environment. “He was really shy and afraid to be in a class full of strangers,” Caizheng recalls. “I struggled through every class, but I wanted to show him that if we set out to do something, we give our all.” Painful knees aside, he has no regrets. “I’m proud to say that my son has since attained his black belt,” he beams.

From belt gradings to ballet recitals, the family makes it a point to show up for one another — a reminder that whatever the challenge, they’ll always be in each other’s corner.

These efforts have strengthened his ties with his children. “They see me not just as Dad, but as a playmate, travel buddy — and sometimes, the butt of the joke (lovingly, of course),” he says.

While proud of their achievements, Caizheng lights up even more at how they’ve taken ownership of family time, coming up with activity wish lists, suggesting games and even creating simple timetables to fairly divide time between their favourite activities and screen time. Their car rides are often filled with laughter and impromptu “car-aoke” sessions, proving that even the in-between moments can become cherished memories.

Despite his demanding schedule, Caizheng makes it a point to be present. “The effort has to be intentional,” he says. “We all know that life gets busy, so start small and be present — even if you’re just holding their ice cream while they play.”

STRENGTH IN VARIETY

From bowling at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok to outdoor walks, kayaking and go-karting, physical activity is a natural language of love for Khaidir’s family, especially with his two high-energy kids — a 14-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter. “We used to do these activities just to tire them out, so they would sleep better,” he recalls with a laugh.

But as an educator, these outings have always held deeper purpose. “It’s important for them to try different things so they can explore, stay curious and eventually discover their own passions in life,” he says, adding that such experiences help them become more flexible in adapting to different challenges. “This gives them the confidence to face unfamiliar situations in the future.”

The family on their 2024 winter holiday in Maibara, Japan — where, after a full day of tumbles, they finally learnt to ski without falling.

Their growing list of activities includes everything from trekking and prawning to scaling courses at Adventure HQ and snow sports abroad. Many of their adventures begin spontaneously — sparked by a TV show, Instagram post or just a casual chat where everyone pitches in ideas. One standout memory? A ‘DIY’ ski trip in Japan where the family hit the slopes armed with only knowledge from YouTube videos to help them prep. There were plenty of falls and fumbles, but Khaidir remembers the laughter most.

Even when there’s nothing on the calendar, he finds ways to connect. On weekends, the 43-year-old and his son hit the gym together. “We spot each other during workouts and chat about exercises and muscle groups,” adds the certified personal trainer, who also helps his son refine his form.

Since his son’s Secondary 1 days, their weekly Sunday gym sessions have been a treasured ritual to connect before the new week begins.

A TEAM THAT GROWS TOGETHER

Even with all his knowledge and experience, Khaidir admits that he’s still learning a lot about his children — and sometimes, from them. “I get to see the empathetic side of my kids during these activities,” shares the Rescue Unit Commander of SCDF’s 3rd Division, 31 Rescue Unit. “My boy learned to ski faster than my girl and encouraged her not to give up. In another instance, she climbed faster and kept cheering him on when he slipped.”

Moments like these go far beyond fun, becoming quiet lessons in resilience, empathy and encouragement — like the time his children introduced him to trampolining. “I wasn’t too keen at first,” he says. “But seeing how much fun they were having, I gave in and joined them.”

They cheered him on as he bounced beside them, a simple gesture that stuck. “I was shocked at how tired I was after just 10 minutes,” he laughs. “It’s actually a fantastic cardio workout.”

More than just a game, bowling days like these offer lighthearted fun and unexpected opportunities for reflection.

These shared activities have also deepened the way they connect and communicate. “We often talk about what happened after each experience, it helps them reflect and process what they went through,” explains Khaidir. “Like during bowling, when most of their throws went into the drain and they felt frustrated, it was a chance to talk about how, in life, things won’t always go your way. But you just pick up the ball and try again, improving your throw the next time — the same way we approach setbacks in life.”

Of course, not every activity goes to plan — and that’s half the fun. “We always have a good laugh when things go sideways, like catching zero prawns or missing every shuttlecock during badminton,” Khaidir shares with a chuckle.

One of the few times they didn’t leave empty-handed — proof that persistence pays off during their regular prawning sessions, often squeezed in while mum goes shopping.

But for him, the missteps are just as meaningful, building memories and bringing the family closer. These days, regular treks and gym sessions are part of the routine, with a trek up Mount Kinabalu as their next big goal.

His advice to fellow parents? Start introducing kids to new experiences as early as possible — and while you still have the energy to join in. “Just try anything. Kids grow up fast, and us parents are getting older too,” he reflects. “Work will always be there. But we have to make an effort to spend meaningful time with our kids. These are the moments they’ll carry with them for life.”

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Categories
Close Up Featured

Growing as a couple through their side hustle

By launching Teletales, SGT2 (NS) Ierfan Bin Muhammad Raushan and his wife Aqilah Omar aren’t just offering audio and video guestbooks for weddings — they’re also building a stronger partnership and future together.

While scrolling through TikTok when planning for their wedding in 2023, SGT2 (NS) Ierfan Bin Muhammad Raushan and his then-fiancée Aqilah Omar stumbled upon a charming idea — audio guestbooks in the form of retro telephone handsets, which were picking up popularity overseas.

Guests could pick up the receiver to leave their well-wishes, which are later compiled into a special keepsake for the couple. Unlike traditional written guestbook entries, these spoken messages capture the joy and spontaneity of the moment.

Noticing that this type of guestbook was mainly seen on Australian and Filipino accounts and hadn’t yet caught on in Singapore’s wedding scene, Ierfan and Aqilah saw an opportunity. “We thought, why not give it a shot?” recalls Ierfan, a 26-year-old senior sales consultant. “And even if it didn’t take off, we could still use it for our own wedding.”

The idea resonated with Aqilah, 25, who works full time and already had a flair for entrepreneurship, having previously run side hustles selling candles and baked goods. Inspired by her go-getter spirit, the couple decided to take the plunge together.

The couple, who married in May 2024, decided to name their business Teletales, a nod to the nostalgic telephone format and the idea that every wedding is a story worth telling — one that couples can someday share with their future children.

THE REALITY OF RUNNING A SIDE HUSTLE

Starting Teletales was far from plug-and-play. The couple invested in the essential equipment — including the signature audio guestbook phones — as well as tables, decorations and video editing software. As their bookings grew to include birthdays, corporate events and even the recent HomeTeamNS Awards 2025, they upgraded their offerings to include both audio and video options.

Ierfan shares that every set-up is designed to feel personalised and polished. Small details — like custom flower arrangements and instruction boards guiding guests on how to use the guestbook — help Teletales stand out from the crowd. To build brand visibility, the couple poured time and effort into social media marketing and teamed up with other wedding vendors. Their hustle paid off, as word of mouth and online traction led to a growing list of clients.

But it’s not without sacrifice. “Because we both work full-time, we sometimes start our days at 6am to set up for an event, and only finish packing up after midnight if there’s an afterparty,” says Ierfan. “And since most weddings and events happen over weekends, we’ve had to cut down on couple time and travel plans too.”

Even on weeknights, there’s little downtime as post-work hours are often spent editing footage and coordinating upcoming bookings. Their bedroom, Ierfan jokes, “resembles a storeroom more than a place to rest”.

Thankfully, they haven’t had to navigate the hustle alone. “We live with my parents and are grateful that they’ve been very encouraging — even when the house is strewn with gear, especially on hectic weekends,” he says with a laugh.

GROWING CLOSER, WORKING SMARTER

Running a business as newlyweds has taught Ierfan and Aqilah more than just how to juggle logistics and timelines — it’s also helped them grow as partners, learning to compromise and appreciating each other’s strengths in the process.

Aqilah handles marketing, client communications and planning, while Ierfan oversees set-up and transportation using their family car. “We’ve learnt to communicate more and see things from each other’s perspective,” he shares. “My wife is better with the finer details, and I’m more operations-minded. So usually, I’m the one taking instructions from her and executing them!”

Their first gig in July 2023 was a nerve-wracking mix of excitement and self-doubt, he admits, as they were uncertain if people would actually use the guestbook. Fortunately, it went off without a hitch, which not only boosted their confidence in the idea but also helped shape their guiding principle. “For us, it’s never just about securing the booking,” Ierfan explains. “What matters most is helping the couple collect as many meaningful messages as possible.”

To make that happen, they often suggest that someone be stationed at the guestbook table to gently nudge guests to participate — especially older guests, who might assume the phone is just part of the décor.

SIDE HUSTLE, BIG WINS

Beyond the joy of building something together, Teletales has had tangible rewards. The couple’s side income helped fund their honeymoon in Istanbul and is now contributing to the renovation of their future BTO flat, slated for completion in 2026.

As Teletales continues to expand, Ierfan is grateful for his friends who voluntarily put aside their weekend plans to help with event set-ups, enabling the couple to take on more bookings. “The aim is to continue scaling up in the wedding industry and to take Teletales as far as it can go,” he shares.

That sense of dedication and discipline, he says, stems in part from his National Service experience with the Singapore Police Force’s Public Transport Security Command. “As a team leader on patrol, I had to step up during high-pressure situations, like making drug-related arrests. That experience really shaped me,” he reflects. “It taught me to stay focused, multitask and lead under pressure — all skills I now use in running Teletales.”

Reflecting on their journey, Ierfan encourages others not to overthink starting a side hustle. “One thing I realised is that people often delay their plans because of fear or uncertainty,” he says. “But at the end of the day, you just have to start — because you won’t know how far you can go until you do. I certainly didn’t!”

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Categories
In The Force Featured

Twinning in action: How these brothers are serving side by side in the SCDF

From playing floorball to putting out fires, twin brothers SGT1 Irfan Iskandar Bin Abu Hasrin (left) and SGT1 Arfan Andreanee Bin Abu Hasrin have done almost everything together. Now serving in the SCDF, they’ve brought their lifelong bond to the frontlines — supporting each other through training, deployments and operational duties.

Growing up, twin brothers SGT1 Irfan and SGT1 Arfan — born just one minute apart — were practically inseparable. They attended the same schools, joined the same co-curricular activities and bonded over a shared passion for tennis and floorball. This close bond continued into their National Service when they enlisted in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) at the same time.

Their journey began with Basic Rescue Training (BRT) at the Civil Defence Academy. But just a week in, their paths diverged. Irfan set his sights on becoming a Section Commander, while Arfan underwent the Firefighter Course. Still, that brief overlap in training was memorable. “It was funny when instructors or trainees mistook one of us for the other,” Arfan recalls with a laugh.

Seeing double? The brothers pictured during their training days.
Seeing double? The brothers pictured during their training days.

The brothers are also each other’s training buddy, maintaining their fitness routines together. “We gym and train together, just like we always have,” says Irfan, noting that transitioning into uniformed life was the biggest adjustment to adapt to. “The main challenge was learning to be independent, and to take responsibility for ourselves and our gear,” he adds.

Arfan agrees, chiming in: “Physical training was tough, but we constantly encouraged each other to do better. That drive kept us going, and as we progressed through our training, we grew more confident and emerged stronger, both physically and mentally.”

DIFFERENT ROLES, ONE MISSION

After graduating from the Firefighter Course in October 2023, Arfan was posted to Changi Fire Station with Rota 1. Two months later, Irfan completed his Section Commander Course and joined Rota 2 at the same fire station.

“We really didn’t expect to be posted to the same fire station,” Arfan shares. Irfan adds: “Initially, I hoped that we would be assigned to the same Rota. But in hindsight, this arrangement is better as we get to respond to different emergencies and learn from each other’s experiences.”

While their roles differ, their camaraderie hasn’t wavered. As a Section Commander, Irfan leads a team of four firefighters, while Arfan focuses on executing his assigned tasks during each incident. “Understanding each other’s roles and perspectives at the fireground has helped us appreciate the challenges faced by the other,” said Arfan, who often seeks leadership advice from his brother.

For Irfan, Arfan’s perspective has been eye-opening. “I’d ask him about situations he’s encountered on the ground, especially during complex operations, because it helps me lead more effectively and coordinate better with my team,” he explains. “As a Section Commander, I have to assess situations and be decisive while prioritising the safety of my team. As my brother is a firefighter, understanding things from his perspective helps me to be more aware of my team’s concerns and expectations.”

This mutual respect and openness have helped them ease into their respective roles. “As frontliners, we must uphold high standards to save lives ,” says Arfan. “With the leadership advice and encouragement from my brother, I can better support my commanders and colleagues.”

Outside of work, Irfan (first from right) and Arfan (third from right) bond over sports, such as cross-country runs.
Outside of work, Irfan (first from right) and Arfan (third from right) bond over sports, such as cross-country runs.

Since joining Changi Fire Station, both brothers have grown in skill and confidence through real-world experience and consistent training. They also credit their personal growth to the people around them. “We greatly appreciate the guidance and encouragement from our supervisors and fellow NSFs. They’ve made our NS experience fun and rewarding,” says Irfan with a smile.

AN IMPACTFUL MOMENT

One particularly memorable moment in their NS journey happened when both brothers responded to the same fire in Loyang — even though they were on separate shifts.

Less than an hour before the end of their shift, Irfan’s Rota was midway through a high-rise fire drill when an emergency call came in. “We quickly mobilised, established the water supply and set up water jets to contain the fire,” he recalls. “As it was a prolonged operation, our shift ended and the next Rota took over.”

Among those who relieved the firefighters on-site was his brother Arfan. “We had a brief exchange at the fireground before my Rota took over. We continued the operation until the fire was completely extinguished,” Arfan adds.

This incident was just one of many experiences at Changi Fire Station that brought the brothers closer and deepened their admiration for each other.

For Irfan (left) and Arfan, the most rewarding part of their NS in SCDF is making a difference in people’s lives, and being able to share this journey together makes it even more meaningful.
For Irfan (left) and Arfan, the most rewarding part of their NS in SCDF is making a difference in people’s lives, and being able to share this journey together makes it even more meaningful.

“I’ve admired my brother’s leadership skills since we were young,” shares Arfan. “He steps up, even when things get tough. Although he does make mistakes sometimes, he learns and grows from these experiences.” It’s a quality he now strives to adopt in his own journey — learning what it means to lead and care for others in a team.

Irfan, in turn, praised Arfan’s grit. “My brother has an incredible ability to overcome adversity. Even if he struggles at first, he never gives up. I remember a fire incident which he responded to at midnight. He was part of the Red Rhino crew that managed to contain the fire before the fire engine arrived. I’m proud of the confident, capable firefighter he has become,” he says. Seeing his brother’s perseverance firsthand is something Irfan hopes to take with him beyond NS — especially when facing future challenges.

Now in the final month of their NS stint, both brothers agree that it has been a meaningful chapter in their lives — one filled with challenges, growth and purpose. “From attending the same primary school to serving the nation together in the SCDF, it has been an incredible journey,” Arfan reflects.

Irfan echoes the sentiment: “Being a part of the SCDF is truly fulfilling. When we respond to a call and help someone in their hour of need, it directly impacts their lives in a meaningful way. Doing it alongside my twin brother makes it even more special.”

*This story has been adapted from an article that was originally published in SCDF’s digital magazine, Rescue995.

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Categories
Close Up Featured

Braving the blaze: Behind the scenes of marine firefighting training

WO2 Chan Kim Mun and SGT1 (NS) Naufal Afiq Bin Jumali reveal why firefighting at sea is more than just dousing flames — it’s about staying sharp, sailing smart and standing strong in the face of unpredictability.

When SGT1 (NS) Naufal Afiq Bin Jumali, 21, was first posted to West Coast Marine Fire Station as a Navigation Specialist in October 2023, he quickly learnt that protecting and saving lives and property at sea requires a combination of skills, resilience and adaptability.

Like their land-based counterparts, marine firefighters are trained in firefighting, height rescue, medical response and hazardous materials response. However, maritime operations present unique challenges, which require knowledge in navigating Singapore’s waters, operating SCDF’s marine vessels and sensemaking during emergencies.

SGT1 (NS) Naufal Afiq Bin Jumali
SGT1 (NS) Naufal Afiq Bin Jumali

TRAINING FOR EXCELLENCE

During their training, marine firefighters are closely mentored and trained by dedicated instructors at the Civil Defence Academy. WO2 Chan Kim Mun, a Senior Course Specialist at the Civil Defence Academy, is one of these instructors. He plans for and conducts practical training, scenario-based exercises and competency assessments in marine firefighting and rescue.

WO2 Chan Kim Mun.
WO2 Chan Kim Mun.

His goal? To inculcate critical and flexible thinking in every SCDF officer. “In every operation, there is no fixed solution that works every time. My role is to help trainees think on their feet, especially in situations where casualties are involved,” says the 48-year-old.

During evacuation drills, trainees are encouraged to explore multiple approaches instead of relying on a fixed method. This sharpens their ability to assess the situation, even in challenging situations, such as rough seas, shifting tides or low visibility.

Drawing from his years of operational experience, Kim Mun brings valuable lessons to the classroom and training grounds. In 2022, he responded to a fire at a waste oil processing plant in Tuas. Navigating through shallow waters and tidal shifts on the Rapid Response Fire Vessel, his team approached the burning plant and supported firefighting operations.

Kim Mun (in white helmet) working with his colleagues during a firefighting operation in Tuas in 2022.
Kim Mun (in white helmet) working with his colleagues during a firefighting operation in Tuas in 2022.

These experiences have shaped Kim Mun’s teaching philosophy, rooted in humility and lifelong learning. A quote from Confucius resonates deeply with him: “The more I learn, the more I realise how much I don’t know”. He applies the same mindset to his career, where every situation presents opportunities to learn, and be a better version of himself.

“When we first joined the Marine Division, we had to familiarise ourselves, not just with the different vessels, but also how tides, currents or the weather could affect our vessel,” he recalls. “Just when we think that we have fully mastered something, more learning opportunities will emerge. This cycle of learning keeps us humble and motivated to continue growing.”

As part of his training, Kim Mun (first from right) and his colleagues attended a course to learn more about a vessel’s engine.
As part of his training, Kim Mun (first from right) and his colleagues attended a course to learn more about a vessel’s engine.

Today, Kim Mun and his colleagues regularly attend courses to deepen their expertise in marine firefighting, rescue and vessel management, ensuring that they are always well-prepared for the ever-changing maritime landscape.

BECOMING A MARINE SPECIALIST

Beyond critical thinking and technical skills, marine firefighters must also strengthen their physical endurance. For Naufal, participating in a simulated maritime emergency exercise, such as the Ferry Rescue Exercise (FEREX) in 2023, was eye-opening.

Naufal (second from left) with his team during a Breathing Apparatus (BA) endurance training session, which involved high-intensity drills such as hoisting weights and pulling stretchers while wearing full BA and face masks.
Naufal (second from left) with his team during a Breathing Apparatus (BA) endurance training session, which involved high-intensity drills such as hoisting weights and pulling stretchers while wearing full BA and face masks.

“Marine firefighting operations can last for hours,” he explains. “We have to hoist equipment from our vessel, and the distressed ship can be a few storeys high. Yet, completing each operation gives us a sense of fulfilment, knowing that we have made a difference.”

Despite the challenges, Naufal has never looked back. “Wearing the specialist tab on my uniform reminds me of the responsibilities I’ve taken on, and I do my best to carry them out with pride,” he says.

Naufal (second row, first from left, wearing a cap and spectacles) with his colleagues after completing a training exercise.
Naufal (second row, first from left, wearing a cap and spectacles) with his colleagues after completing a training exercise.

After completing his full-time National Service in February, Naufal opted to extend his National Service through the Voluntary Extension of Service before pursuing his degree in civil engineering at Nanyang Technological University.

FROM FIRST FIRES TO FUTURE AMBITION

Kim Mun shares that same pride. He joined the SCDF Marine Division in 2014, just two years after its inception, and was recently nominated for his excellent performance.

Kim Mun conducting a practical revision session for trainees ahead of their assessment.
Kim Mun conducting a practical revision session for trainees ahead of their assessment.

“What drew me in was the opportunity to explore a different path from other frontline officers,” he reflects. “As one of the pioneers in Marine Division, I find it most fulfilling to witness how our trainees grow. When I see trainees confidently applying their skills during emergencies, it reinforces how important training is in building their competency and readiness.”

For Naufal, his skills were put to the test when he responded to his first vessel fire in 2024. His team was the first to arrive on scene, facing one of the largest vessel fires in Singapore in recent years. The operation lasted over eight hours.

After boarding the vessel to assess the situation, his team quickly commenced their firefighting effort. “The operation was challenging,” he recalls. “However, with strong support from Brani Marine Fire Station, we managed to extinguish the fire.”

In a separate medical incident at sea, Naufal led his first height rescue, which required his team to lower a casualty from the distressed vessel’s superstructure to SCDF’s vessel.

Naufal and his crew setting up the height rescue system. He was tasked with handling the casualty and safely transferring them from inside the vessel to the open deck.
Naufal and his crew setting up the height rescue system. He was tasked with handling the casualty and safely transferring them from inside the vessel to the open deck.

“On vessels, space is often limited, but we have to adapt to the situation, while ensuring safety,” he explains. “This is why we have to plan our course of actions carefully. As every operation is different, we need to stay flexible and adapt to our surroundings.”

Looking back, Naufal noted that real-life operations and exercises instilled in him the values of trust and teamwork. These experiences not only prepared him for emergencies, but also shaped his aspirations. “Being a marine firefighter has inspired me to pursue a career with the SCDF,” he says. “I hope to continue protecting and saving lives and property.”

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