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At an age when most are slowing down, three individuals continue to dedicate their time to serving the community, as Volunteer Special Constabulary (VSC) (Community) officers. Police Life speaks to the husband and wife pair of Mr Goh How Phuang and Ms Yvonne Goh, alongside Ms Goh’s sister, Selena Goh, on their journey serving in the Singapore Police Force (SPF) as a family.

Beginnings with Purpose

The VSC (Community) scheme was introduced in 2018 to provide members of the public with fresh opportunities to volunteer with the SPF. For How Phuang and Yvonne, the scheme marked the beginning of a new chapter after their retirement.

Before joining the VSC (Community), How Phuang spent his career as a fixed income portfolio manager while Yvonne built her career as a tax consultant. Although they’ve stepped away from their professional careers, both felt they still had the time and energy to contribute back to the community.

“Keeping Singapore safe is a worthy cause, so we both signed up, and it has been eight years since we did,” they shared.

Inspired by her older sister’s journey and driven by her own passion for community service, Selena had long hoped to be a VSC(C) officer. Formerly an architect, she put her family responsibilities first by caring for her aged parents and raising her children.

Selena finally took the leap when her children were older and her caregiving responsibilities had eased. “I’ve always been interested in policing work, and safety and security are matters that I care deeply about,” she said.

On the Line of Service

Deployed to the Police Operations Command Centre (POCC) as Emergency Communication Officers (ECOs), the trio work alongside Police officers to receive 999 calls from the public and classify each call according to its appropriate level of urgency.

Whether they are answering calls involving reports of crime or assisting callers in distress, the trio plays a vital role in ensuring that help reaches those who need it.

While their professional backgrounds differ, the trio have developed useful skills throughout their careers to help them in their volunteer roles. Years in their respective fields have equipped them with clarity and confidence in communication, maturity in dealing with people from all walks of life and the ability to remain composed under pressure.

These qualities are valuable in their roles as ECOs, helping them to reassure distressed callers and make sound decisions in high-pressure situations.

For Yvonne, one call remains particularly memorable. She recalled speaking to a distressed caller who refused to reveal her location. Aware that the caller might harm herself, Yvonne remained calm, reassuring the caller and building trust. The caller finally disclosed her whereabouts after 20 minutes, and officers were swiftly deployed to her.

This experience reminded Yvonne that every call has the potential to change a life. “I was thankful that I wasn’t alone in that moment,” she said. “The regular officers and fellow ECOs on duty offered guidance and encouragement to me throughout the call.”

Selena also finds meaning in supporting callers during difficult moments, particularly those in emotional distress. “Saving lives behind the scenes is rewarding,” she shared.

Time Well Spent

For the committed trio, the greatest reward lies in knowing that their time and effort can make a difference when someone needs help. Whether they’re supporting distressed callers or mentoring fellow VSC officers, volunteering continues to give them a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

“At the end of the day, we want to do our little bit to serve our community,” said How Phuang and Yvonne. “It’s personally satisfying, and the feeling that it’s time well spent keeps us going.”

Together, they bring decades of professional experience and life lessons to their volunteer roles, proving that retirement doesn’t mark an end, but a beginning of a new chapter in our lives.

Through their shared commitment, How Phuang, Yvonne and Selena prove that there is no age limit to giving back. For them, volunteering is not simply a role they step into – it’s about spending time meaningfully, supporting one another and serving the community.

Volunteers in Blue

In this series, we spotlight our dedicated volunteers who serve with passion and commitment across various schemes within the SPF.

Ready to embark on a rewarding journey with the SPF and make a difference to the community? Find out how you can join the VSC (Community) here