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Sharp Focus and Steady Hands at the Johore Shield

Police Life follows first-timer Sgt Ilham as he puts his sharpshooter skills to the test at the Johore Shield 2025.

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PHOTO: Ahmad Fawwaz

The Johore Shield is one of the most prestigious sporting events for the Singapore Police Force (SPF). Its origins go back to 1953, when the Johore Police presented the Shield to the SPF in appreciation of the support the Force had provided during the communist insurgency.

The 72nd edition of the precision pistol competition returned to the Home Team Academy on 9 October 2025 as officers from different units gathered to demonstrate their marksmanship skills.

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The Johore Shield kicks off with a safety briefing for all officers. PHOTO: Nur Muhd Syahmi

The competition comprised different shooting tests, demanding various techniques and the highest level of focus from the officers.

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Scenes at the Johore Shield as officers prepare for their turn to showcase their marksmanship. PHOTOS: Nur Muhd Syahmi

For Sergeant (Sgt) Nur Ilham Bin Abdullah, a member of the Bedok Police Division shooting team, this year's Johore Shield held special significance – it marked his very first time participating in the esteemed competition. Police Life spoke with him to learn more about his debut.

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Meet Sgt Ilham, a Ground Response Force (GRF) officer from Marine Parade NPC! PHOTO: Ahmad Fawwaz

Tell us about yourself. How do you feel about making your debut at the Johore Shield?

My journey in the SPF began in 2017 as a full-time Police National Service officer and I’m currently a GRF officer at Marine Parade Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC). I feel excited to be able to participate in the Johore Shield, and also nervous at the same time, since I’m up against the very best SPF shooters.

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Sgt Ilham taking aim at his target! PHOTO: Ahmad Fawwaz

What does representing Bedok Police Division in the Johore Shield mean to you?

I see it as a responsibility to do my very best for my Division. My team and I have trained hard for the competition and we’re motivated to prove ourselves. I won’t waste the opportunity given to me.

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Alongside Sgt Ilham (middle) are officers from both non-specialist and specialist units. PHOTO: Ahmad Fawwaz

How did you and your team prepare for the competition?

We actively gave advice to each other. I remember the guidance given to me by my seniors: “Don’t be afraid to change.”

Sometimes, we don’t know what’s better for us unless we step out of our comfort zone. It also helped to know what to focus on before each training session – this made our practices more effective!

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After every round, shooters replace their target with a new one. PHOTO: Ahmad Fawwaz

What challenges do you face as a participant in the Johore Shield?

It’s definitely the immense pressure and nervousness as everyone will be watching me, expecting me to perform. I’ll try to tell myself not to get caught up with the competition atmosphere and see it as just another shooting session.

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Despite the pressure, Sgt Ilham does his best to remain calm throughout the competition. PHOTO: Ahmad Fawwaz

To manage my nerves, I remind myself to be confident, yet remain humble. I also try to be open to learning from anyone – you never know who may have the perfect advice for you!

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Sgt Ilham (second row, fourth from left) with his teammates from Bedok Police Division who clinched third place among the non-specialist units. PHOTO: Nur Muhd Syahmi

Another Exciting Edition of the Johore Shield

This year’s Johore Shield saw three teams taking part in the specialist unit competition and seven units taking part in the non-specialist competition.

After a thrilling showdown of marksmanship by the participating teams, excitement was high as the crowd waited eagerly for the results to be revealed. Adding to the occasion was the presence of a Johore Police contingent led by Chief Police Officer (CPO) of Johor Ab Rahaman Arsad.

After much anticipation, the results were revealed! The Security Command (SecCom) emerged victorious overall, clinching the specialist unit title and the Johore Shield trophy once again – marking their second consecutive win. Jurong Police Division came in first among non-specialist units while Bedok Police Division won third place. Cheers erupted across the crowd as officers lined up to receive their honours.

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Officers from SecCom with Acting Commissioner of Police How Kwang Hwee (first row, fifth from right) and CPO Ab Rahaman Arsad (first row, fifth from left), alongside senior officers from the SPF and Johor Police. PHOTO: Ahmad Fawwaz

As the event came to a close, officers gathered to take photos and congratulate each other, highlighting the sportsmanship and competitive spirit embodied by the Johore Shield. Congratulations to all officers who put in their best efforts this year!