As Singapore marks 50 years of Police National Service, Supt (NS) Cyril Lim shares his reflections on service, leadership, and community support.
On 3 June 2025, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) marked Police Day — an annual tribute to the commitment and service of officers across the nation. This year’s ceremony carried added meaning as it coincided with the golden jubilee of Police National Service (PNS). At the helm of the Police Day Observance Ceremony (PDOC) 2025 was Superintendent of Police (NS) Cyril Lim.
Cyril’s journey with the Force began in 2008, when he enlisted as a Full-time Police National Service officer. Today, he serves as Deputy Commander (NS) at Jurong Police Division, where he provides leadership to some 2,000 NS officers across both frontline operations and support functions.
Beyond his duties with the SPF, Cyril is also an active member of the HomeTeamNS Volunteer Network — demonstrating his ongoing commitment to giving back and building strong, resilient communities.
Here, he shares insights from his policing journey — and what it means to lead during such a significant milestone.
You were the second Police National Service officer to lead the PDOC. What does this mean to you?
I was deeply humbled and honoured. To me, the appointment was both a privilege and a responsibility. It was a testament to the trust and confidence that the SPF has placed in Police National Service officers, and I was proud to be part of this tradition and celebrate SPF’s invaluable contributions to our community.
Leading the PDOC as Ceremony Commander was a defining experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it was a valuable learning experience. As someone with experience organising events regularly, I was acutely aware of the expectations and stress that came with delivering a flawless ceremony. The pressure to perform was significant, with numerous Police National Service officers relying on me to ensure the ceremony’s success.
Throughout the rigorous training period, my family’s support and encouragement fueled my determination. Knowing that my commitment to PNS is not just about serving the nation, but also about personal growth and development, gave me a deeper sense of purpose.
Having progressed from NS Head Manpower, Admin and Logistics (MAL) to NS Deputy Commander of Jurong Police Division, how has your perspective on PNS evolved?
It has broadened significantly. Initially, my focus was on MAL functions and managing about 400 non-frontline Police National Service officers. Now, as NS Deputy Commander, I assist in overseeing around 2,000 Police National Service officers. Our Trainers ensure operational readiness through rigorous training while our Provosts maintain high standards of discipline. Seeing how these different roles support our division’s objectives has given me a deeper appreciation of the strategic importance of PNS. The dedication of our Police National Service officers also continues to inspire me.
Could you share a significant moment that highlights the crucial role played by PNS officers?
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many public officers were deployed to migrant worker dormitories and Government Quarantine Facilities. Our PNS officers stepped up to ensure the timely delivery of quality meals and refreshments, utilising skills and expertise from their day jobs to fulfil our mission.
Every year, our PNS officers also play a vital role in major events such as the National Day Parade, Singapore F1 Grand Prix and the recent General Elections. Beyond frontline deployments, our Support and Technical Assistant PNS officers work behind the scenes in many support functions. They’re often the first to arrive and last to leave, setting up logistics before deployments and demobilising after an event has ended.
How has your family supported your commitment to PNS?
Deployments during holidays like National Day and New Year’s Eve mean sacrificing quality time with them, but my family has been very understanding. They’re proud of the impact I make, and their unwavering support allows me to focus on my responsibilities.
To prepare for the PDOC 2025, I studied videos of past Police Day Parade Commanders to understand the expectations and requirements of the role.
Learning drills was challenging as I had to get used to the weight and balance of the sword. Through regular practice and feedback from my trainers, I also learnt to project my voice clearly and confidently. With the support of all the officers involved, we made the ceremony a success!
As we celebrate 50 years of PNS, what message would you like to share with current and future Police National Service officers?
I want to convey a message of pride and appreciation to past, current and future generations of Police National Service officers – a vital pillar of Singapore’s safety and security. Every shift scheduled, officer deployed and every resource well-managed contributes to the readiness of the SPF. We honour the many officers who uphold Singapore’s safety with quiet strength and unwavering commitment.
A glimpse of Supt (NS) Lim in action during a PDOC 2025 rehearsal. VIDEO: Clara Wong
As Police National Service officers, we must continue to uphold the SPF’s mission and vision, working closely with regular officers to enhance operational effectiveness. Let’s continue to take pride in our service and uphold the values of commitment, duty and service to the nation.
This article was adapted from this Police Life article.
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