SGT1 Muhammad Anaqy Bin Hatta’s National Service journey has deepened his family bonds and empowered him to nurture new enlistees.
Before donning the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) uniform, SGT1 Muhammad Anaqy Bin Hatta had already seen frontline action. During his Higher National Institute of Technical Education Certificate (NITEC) in Paramedic and Emergency Care, he was attached to Yishun Fire Station and Sengkang Fire Station, responding to medical emergencies alongside SCDF Regular Officers for about a year.
“Responding alongside SCDF officers helped me to understand the challenges faced by emergency responders and allowed me to better prepare myself for my National Service (NS),” he reflects. “I was excited and curious about what lies ahead when I entered the gates of the Civil Defence Academy.”
When his NS with the SCDF began in 2023, Anaqy was ready to serve with purpose and pride. The support and encouragement from his family became a key part of his growth over the two years.
Being the youngest of four siblings, Anaqy gained confidence from the guidance of his two older brothers, who had completed their NS with the Singapore Armed Forces. “They shared tips on staying fit through daily exercise, and the importance of looking out for the safety and wellbeing of my platoon mates,” recalls the 24-year-old. “Their advice gave me the confidence to embark on my journey as a Singaporean son.”
His experiences on the frontline sparked a lasting interest in emergency medicine. This budding interest from his NS eventually grew into a calling — one he now pursues full-time as a Paramedic at Ang Mo Kio Fire Station.
Throughout his journey, Anaqy draws strength from his loved ones. “The strong support from my family motivates me to give my best,” he says.
In return, Anaqy hopes to empower his loved ones with the knowledge to render assistance in times of need. He often teaches them basic first aid skills, such as how to handle injuries or medical emergencies. “It’s essential knowledge that could one day save a life,” he adds.
One example is the Improvised First Aid Skill. “For a casualty who is bleeding severely, we should apply firm pressure on the wound using a clean cloth. Alternatively, a tourniquet can be applied using everyday items like a towel and a stick to stop the bleeding,” he shares with a smile, noting that he feels a sense of pride, care and responsibility to impart these skills to his loved ones.
Anaqy’s journey has also shaped him into a mentor for his younger colleagues. He is a firm believer in continuous learning. “Being a paramedic is not just about physical fitness,” he emphasises. “We need to stay updated with new medical protocols, the latest research and best practices. Such knowledge is essential for us to respond effectively and confidently during emergencies.”
Today, he imparts his passion for learning to his juniors, patiently answering their questions and sharing his strategies on improving patient care and efficiency. “As a mentor, it is rewarding to see them grow. This gives me the motivation to improve myself constantly,” he adds.
Beyond honing their medical skills, Anaqy advises his juniors to remain patient in their approach to learning and frontline duties. “Learning takes time and practice. That’s why it is important to be patient in your progress and gradually gain confidence in emergency response,” he notes. To manage challenges, he uses breathing techniques to compose himself and draws on his training and experience.
When asked what it means to be a Paramedic in the SCDF, he says: “My National Service with SCDF gave me an opportunity to serve the country and help people in their hour of need. There is a sense of pride in every life that we save.”
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