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On most days, the job of a Ground Response Force (GRF) officer is defined by unpredictability. For Sergeant (Sgt) Syazwani Binte Razali, that’s what drew her to the Singapore Police Force (SPF).
“I love being in a challenging environment,” Sgt Syazwani shares. “No two days are the same as we’re constantly faced with unpredictable situations.”
Since joining the SPF in May 2019, Sgt Syazwani has embraced that uncertainty with purpose. After completing six months of training, she was posted to Ang Mo Kio Police Division’s Punggol Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) in December 2019, where she continues to serve today.
On the Frontline
As a GRF officer, Sgt Syazwani is often among the first on scene. From noise complaints and accidents to even crimes in progress, she responds swiftly to calls for assistance.
Beyond emergency response, her routine patrols through the neighbourhood in Punggol provides welcome assurance to members of the public. “It helps to deter crime and gives residents a sense of security,” Sgt Syazwani explains.
The challenges of frontline policing are made manageable by strong team support. “My team motivates me a lot,” Sgt Syazwani says. “Working with them has helped me grow in carrying out my duties. Even making the smallest difference in someone’s life is very rewarding.”
A Test of Courage
That sense of duty was put to the ultimate test on the evening of 14 January 2025, when what began as a fire emergency quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation.
Arriving at the incident scene with her partner, Sgt Syazwani found that flames had broken out in a unit on the 13th floor, engulfing the entire kitchen.
“It all happened in a blur,” she recalls. “Given the fire, smoke and confusion, everyone at the scene was frantic.”
Amid the chaos, her priorities were clear – ensure the safety of residents.
Spotting the homeowner outside the unit in shock, Sgt Syazwani moved in. When she was unable to confirm if there were other people still inside the unit, she made a split-second decision. She entered the smoke-filled unit. “I shouted to alert anyone inside,” she says.
To her relief, there was no one inside the flat. She then shifted her focus and began evacuating residents in the vicinity.
It was then she encountered a mother with three young children amid the thickening smoke billowing from the affected unit.
Sgt Syazwani acted without hesitation. “I carried one child down the stairs to safety,” she recounts. “At that moment, all I could think about was the safety of the family.”
Thankfully, all the residents were eventually evacuated to safety. With the arrival of firefighters, the fire was soon extinguished.
A Moment of Recognition
Incidents like these underscore one of the biggest challenges in policing – managing stressful situations while maintaining composure. “As GRF officers, it’s important to remain composed in any situation,” Sgt Syazwani explains. “It can be demanding but we must always deliver our best while maintaining professionalism.”
Sgt Syazwani’s ability to remain cool under pressure hasn’t gone unnoticed. From being named the best GRF officer of her Division to representing the SPF in Home Team sports, her journey reflects her commitment to always give her best.
For Sgt Syazwani, the most meaningful moments as an officer are often the simplest ones. “Even a ‘thank you’ from members of the public reminds me why I chose this profession,” she says.
On 24 February 2026, Sgt Syazwani’s courage and commitment were recognised when she received the Individual Commendation Award at the Commissioner of Police’s Commendation Ceremony.
For her, the award is more than a personal milestone. “It’s an honour,” Sgt Syazwani shares. “It recognises the hard work and dedication I’ve put in and it motivates me to continue serving the public!”
