Honouring Our Heroes: The Unsung Efforts of Home Team Officers During Covid-19
When the Covid-19 pandemic hit Singapore in April 2020, the government quickly set up quarantine and isolation facilities in various locations, including dormitories, hotels, and chalets. This surge in cases led to a flurry of activity for Deputy Assistant Commissioner (DAC) Tan Su Leng, who found herself inundated with messages daily. With 25 years of experience in the Singapore Police Force, she was tasked with managing security at these facilities, ensuring the safety of migrant workers, and enforcing safe management measures.
Facing New Challenges
Tan, 52, shared in a recent interview that her mornings began with notifications from numerous chat groups. Her team of seven officers worked closely with multiple agencies to tackle law and order issues, especially at supermarkets and dormitories. The pressure was immense, as Tan worried they might become the weak link in the chain of safety.
Before the pandemic, her team had dealt with a smaller public health crisis in May 2019 when a Nigerian national tested positive for monkeypox. Tan described that situation as “manageable,” but Covid-19 was a different beast altogether. As cases started rising, Tan had to adapt her strategies daily to keep up with the rapidly changing circumstances.
A Moment of Relief
Tan felt a wave of relief when Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced the circuit breaker in April 2020. “It was something we had anticipated, but it felt surreal,” she recalled. Her team worked tirelessly, often sacrificing family gatherings and celebrations, including Chinese New Year, to ensure contingency plans were in place.
“The clear guidance from our leaders and the strong spirit of teamwork kept us going,” she said, reflecting on the dedication of her team during those challenging times.
Recognising Their Sacrifices
Tan is among the 3,036 recipients of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ (MHA) Covid-19 awards. She received the Public Administration Medal (Bronze) during a ceremony at Singapore Expo on November 22. Minister for Law and Home Affairs, K Shanmugam, expressed his gratitude to all Home Team officers for their relentless efforts in navigating the pandemic.
He acknowledged their roles in managing emergency medical services, conducting swabbing operations, and securing quarantine facilities. “Everyone played a significant role in ensuring we emerged from this crisis stronger than before,” he stated.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
Tan, now heading operations at SPF’s Ang Mo Kio Division, likened her team’s experience to fighting a war. “And we came out alive,” she added with pride.
The recognition of these officers not only boosts morale but also inspires others to step up during crises.
Enhancing Recognition for Our Frontline Heroes
To further enhance the recognition of Home Team officers, consider these suggestions:
1. **Public Acknowledgment**: The government can publicly commend the contributions of Home Team officers through official statements and social media. This will raise awareness and appreciation among Singaporeans.
2. **Share Success Stories**: Highlight specific instances where officers went above and beyond during the pandemic. These stories can be shared through news articles, interviews, or videos to inspire others.
3. **Community Involvement**: Encourage the community to show appreciation through thank-you notes, community events, or platforms for sharing personal stories of gratitude.
4. **Provide Resources**: Ensure officers have the necessary resources, including personal protective equipment and mental health support, to perform their duties effectively.
5. **Establish Awards**: Create recognition programs for officers who have shown exceptional dedication during the pandemic. This can motivate them and inspire others to follow suit.
By implementing these measures, we can enhance the recognition of our Home Team officers, boosting their morale and inspiring a collective effort towards the nation’s well-being during challenging times.
For more insights on the contributions of our frontline workers, visit Ministry of Home Affairs.