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It was past 4am at the Tanah Merah MRT depot on a dark, warm and humid night in 1991. Fresh from the Old Police Academy, a young full-time Police National Service (PNSF) officer followed Sergeant (Sgt) Phua Teck Chai into the pitch-black construction site, responding to a report of a break-in.
What they discovered would forever change his view of Police work. In an obstructed toilet cubicle, they found someone in critical condition who needed immediate medical attention. For the young officer, this was one of his first encounters with a life-threatening emergency, and he was wholly unprepared to face the situation. Without hesitation, Sgt Phua began CPR, performing 15 minutes of relentless resuscitation as he fought to save a life.
“He was the embodiment of an exemplary Police officer,” recalls Deputy Assistant Commissioner (DAC) (NS) Darric Teo. “This single episode inspired me to rise and help those who could not help themselves.”
That moment of witnessing unwavering dedication would shape DAC (NS) Teo’s remarkable 34-year commitment to service. As the Singapore Police Force (SPF) commemorates 50 years of Police National Service (PNS), his story exemplifies how ordinary citizens answer the call of duty.
Leadership Through Crisis
Throughout his 34 years of service, DAC (NS) Teo has held diverse roles, from Manpower Officer to serving with the Key Installations Command (KINS), now known as the Protective Security Command. When asked about his favourite posting, he responds without hesitation: Investigation Officer (IO).
“The field of investigation has been an amazing journey for me,” he says. The dynamic and fast-paced nature of investigation work thrilled him. Each day brought different cases, and he revelled in the unpredictability.
This was to help him as he embarked on his PNS journey. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, enhanced security measures were put in place in Singapore and, for the first time, a large number of KINS troops were deployed to protect key installations across the island.
“My KINS unit was suddenly recalled, but there were few security templates to follow,” he recalls. “We were stretched thin and had to figure out deployment matters quickly.”
Such moments, he maintains, have made him a better leader: “The exposure to different experiences, as well as the camaraderie and bond between officers, are treasures which I cherish dearly.”
These formative experiences have also shaped the leadership philosophy he brings to his current role: National Service (NS) Commander of Training Command (TRACOM).
Leadership in Practice
As NS Commander of TRACOM, DAC (NS) Teo oversees the training of PNS officers Force-wide across specialist units and Land Divisions. “Our aim is to have a well-rounded programme to guide these officers throughout their PNS journey,” he says.
During his tenure, he has overseen the “Coaching in the Dark” initiative in collaboration with Ngee Ann Polytechnic, helping PNS Key Appointment Holders and Responsibility Appointment Holders lead fellow officers to successful missions.
Over the years, DAC (NS) Teo has also learnt to listen to others more. “This helps me develop a sense of empathy, and it’s also a form of service leadership,” he shares. “I want my officers to view me as a friend first. It’s with this mindset that they’re willing to go the extra mile in their duties.”
However, effective leadership isn’t just about professional duties – it requires careful life management.
Leadership Through Balance
DAC (NS) Teo first entered the Old Police Academy (now known as the Home Team Academy) in 1991. Working as a logistician in the maritime industry during the day, he juggles work, family, PNS commitments and volunteering.
How does he do it all? “Lots of energy,” he says with a laugh. “I’ve been blessed with a lot of energy to balance all of these commitments.”
At the same time, he credits the power of collective planning for his success: “As long as we listen to others and move forward as a team, this brings about the highest chance of success.”
For DAC (NS) Teo, family time is sacred: “I play football with my son on the weekends, and I always make it a point to be at home during dinnertime so that I can catch up with my family.”
Looking Back, Leading Forward
From joining long queues to draw equipment in the past to using automated technology for the issuance of arms now, DAC (NS) Teo has witnessed significant developments in both the Force and PNS over the decades.
One moment in PNS history stands out to him. “On 3 June 2000, DSP (NS) Yeo Chak Khiam created history by becoming the first PNS officer to command a Police Day Parade,” he explains. “To me, it was an affirmation of the active contributions of our PNS officers to national safety and security. Our efforts had been recognised and validated by the Force. PNS has come of age and I’m proud to be involved – in my own humble way – in nurturing other PNS officers across various vocations.”
Most importantly, he expresses gratitude towards the SPF for the abundance of opportunities he’s had to make friends and build bridges. “This is my greatest takeaway as a PNS officer,” he says with pride.
