Celebrating 50 Years of Police National Service and 100 Years of the SPF Band

Content by: Al Cheng | Photos: SPF

A day of pride, purpose, and renewed dedication to duty, as the Singapore Police Force commemorated Police Day 2025 with a double celebration.

A day of pride, purpose, and renewed dedication to duty, as the Singapore Police Force commemorated Police Day 2025 with a double celebration.

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) marked a proud tradition on 3 June 2025 with the Police Day Observance Ceremony, held at the Home Team Academy.

This annual event has been a cornerstone of the SPF’s identity since 1971, serving as a moment to recognise achievements, honour officers past and present, and renew the values to serve with Courage, Loyalty, Integrity, and Fairness.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Policy) How Kwang Hwee led officers in reciting the Police Pledge.

This year’s Ceremony was particularly meaningful, as it celebrated two major milestones: 50 years of Police National Service (PNS) and the 100th anniversary of the SPF Band.

Minister Tong reviewing the Guard-of-Honour Contingent.

The Guest-of-Honour was Mr Edwin Tong, Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs. Addressing more than 800 officers from various Police divisions and units, the Volunteer Special Constabulary, and Cadets from the National Police Cadet Corps, he paid tribute to SPF’s enduring values and professionalism.

 “I urge all SPF officers to continue serving with dedication and professionalism as you face new challenges, and to maintain the trust and respect of our nation that you have sworn to serve and protect,” he said.

The 19 ceremonial flags stood proudly in formation at the Ceremony.

A Ceremony of Firsts

This year’s observance also introduced a new feature: a flag display from the 19 Police units that have traditionally formed the Parade Marching Contingent at past Police Day Parades. To mark the golden jubilee of PNS, these flags were proudly carried by National Service (NS) Inspectors — a powerful demonstration of commitment from the PNS community.

Supt Sulaiman receiving the Centennial Mace from Minister Tong.

In another historic first, the SPF Band unveiled its 100th Anniversary Centennial Mace — a specially commissioned symbol of the Band’s century-long tradition of unity, discipline, and musical excellence. The Mace was presented to Superintendent of Police (Supt) Sulaiman Bin Abdul Wahab, Director of Music of the SPF Band.

The 100th Anniversary Centennial Mace. VIDEO: SPF

Inspired by the SPF Ceremonial Sword, the Mace features a sculpted silver lion head representing Singapore, surrounded by five historic Police insignias and the State Crest — symbolising the Force’s evolution.

Wrapped in the SPF’s iconic chevrons and engraved with its core values — Courage, Loyalty, Integrity, and Fairness — the Mace serves both as a commanding tool for the Drum Major and a lasting emblem of the Band’s heritage.

Celebrating Excellence

During the Ceremony, Minister Tong presented awards recognising excellence and outstanding operational performance across various categories.

Commander of Central Police Division DAC Wong Keng Hoe receiving the Best Land Division Award from Minister Tong.

Central Police Division received the Best Land Division Award. “This award recognises the professionalism, operational excellence, and dedication demonstrated by officers from Central Police Division, who have consistently given their best through the year to fight crime and keep our community safe,” said Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police (DAC) Wong Keng Hoe, Commander of Central Police Division.

DAC Wong also extended appreciation to the wider community: “This award would not have been possible without the vital contributions of grassroots organisations, schools, and industry partners who have worked closely with us on various Community Safety and Security Projects to safeguard the community; and our officers’ families, who have given them their fullest support to carry out their duties effectively.”

NS Commander of Tanglin Police Division Supt (NS) Vincent Leow receiving the Best NS Operationally Ready Unit Award from Minister Tong.

The Best NS Operationally Ready Unit Award went to Tanglin Police Division. “With heartfelt gratitude and deep honour, we accept this award which we see as a meaningful milestone in our shared journey, especially as PNS celebrates its golden 50th anniversary,” said Supt (NS) Vincent Leow, NS Commander of Tanglin Police Division.

Additional awards were presented to outstanding Full-time Police National Service (PNSF) officers and Best Police National Servicemen (PNSmen) of the Year — acknowledging the hard work and dedication of officers across all stages of service.

A captivating display by the SPF Combined Band.

Music that Unites

The Ceremony concluded with a stirring performance by the SPF Combined Band — comprising members of the SPF Band, the SPF Women Police Pipes and Drums, and the Gurkha Contingent Pipes and Drums.

Specially curated by Supt Sulaiman, the performance offered a powerful blend of genres and styles, taking the audience on an emotional journey through pride, purpose, and unity — honouring 50 years of PNS and 100 years of musical tradition.

This article was adapted from this Police Life article.

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