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In this edition of the “Faces of SPF” series, we’re delighted to introduce Sergeant (Sgt) Amanda Lee, a Ground Response Force (GRF) officer who shares with us her journey in policing and her motivation to continue serving the community!
Hi, Sgt Amanda! Tell us more about yourself.
Hi! I’m a GRF officer at Jurong East Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC). I joined the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in 2021.
Before becoming an officer, I worked in the aviation industry as a cabin crew. This allowed me to explore different parts of the world, which I really enjoyed.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I started thinking about what I really wanted for myself in the long term. I realised that I wanted a job where I could contribute meaningfully and make a difference to the community. That’s when I decided to take a leap of faith and make a career switch to join the Force.
So why did you decide to become a Police officer?
Since young, I’ve always admired courageous women who face danger without fear. One superhero character that really inspired me was Wonder Woman. I loved the grit she had when she was still “young Diana,” when she trained hard to prove herself as an Amazon. To me, being a Police officer is the closest I can get to serving others and demonstrating that same bravery and determination. She’s still my favourite superhero today!
There’s also a personal side to it. My late father used to serve his National Service in the SPF. At home, he’d show me his silver whistle and wooden baton, and shared stories about his work. Those small moments have stayed with me. Looking back, I think this influenced my decision to join the Force.
What are your duties as a GRF officer?
As GRF officers, we’re often the first point of contact to respond to emergency 999 calls. Before our shift starts, we check that all our equipment is in good working order and attend a briefing by our Team Leader for updates on high-profile events and key details to look out for while on patrol.
We’ll look out for suspicious activities during patrols and engage with members of the public to understand more about the neighbourhood. We’ll share crime trends and remind residents to call for help if they spot anything suspicious.
What do you find most rewarding about being a GRF officer?
I’ve been a GRF officer at Jurong East NPC for a little over four years and, honestly, no two days are the same. Besides enforcing the law and bringing perpetrators to justice, we also help those in need. Returning a lost child to his or her parents and interacting with residents can be equally satisfying. If you ever see me patrolling around your area, don’t be shy to say hi!
Is there a case you worked on that has stayed with you?
I once attended to an outrage of modesty case involving an undergraduate. Before I left, she revealed that she aspired to be like me in the future. Her words touched me as I’d never imagined myself inspiring others through the small things I’ve done for them. It made me realise the bigger impact we can have in influencing others to serve the community. That’s a moment I’ll always remember.
What keeps you motivated as an officer?
I stay motivated because I genuinely enjoy what I do. I believe having an open mind will take you far in this line of work, and witnessing the realities of society is a unique experience that not everyone gets to have. This perspective is something I consider meaningful and valuable as a Police officer.
At the end of the day, I take pride in helping others. That’s what really keeps me going.
