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Established in 2016, the Protective Security Command (ProCom) of the Singapore Police Force (SPF) is a specialist unit that taps on the operational readiness of National Service (NS) officers to strengthen Singapore’s protective security capabilities. ProCom’s mission is to protect strategic events and locations during peacetime and national emergencies.

The majority of ProCom officers are Full-time Police National Service (PNSF) officers. Among them is Special Constable Sergeant (SC/Sgt) Zachary Ilyas Ang, who has been serving with ProCom since September 2025.

On the Frontline of Protective Security

SC/Sgt Zachary’s team is tasked with safeguarding key installations across Singapore. They conduct regular patrols at security-sensitive locations, serving as a visible deterrent against potential threats while remaining ready to respond should a threat arise.

ProCom officers are also deployed to safeguard major events, including the National Day Parade and the F1 Singapore Grand Prix. During the 2025 F1 Singapore Grand Prix, SC/Sgt Zachary was deployed to oversee the operations of the Person-Check Stations, ensuring that prohibited items and unauthorised persons did not enter the event premises.

Having previously watched F1 only on TV, the opportunity to work at one of Singapore’s biggest motoring events was “like a dream come true.”

“Seeing how these events run behind the scenes gives you an appreciation for the work that the public doesn’t see in making a major event run smoothly and safely,” SC/Sgt Zachary said.

But beyond major events and security deployments, his time in ProCom has also given him an unexpected opportunity – to lead.

As a Team in Charge, SC/Sgt Zachary is responsible for leading a team of four officers during patrols. Beyond providing guidance, he looks out for their well-being and takes charge during incidents.

“I never expected to have the opportunity to lead a team. This is something unique to PNSF officers in ProCom and the Public Transport Security Command,” he said.

Being an IC also means taking on the role of a teacher. As a tactical unit, ProCom regularly conducts simulated incident scenarios to keep officers prepared for different situations. During these exercises, SC/Sgt Zachary works with his team and trainers to identify mistakes and guide his teammates on how they can improve. In the process, he also learns and grows alongside his teammates.

A Team to Count On

For SC/Sgt Zachary, staying prepared is not something he does alone. His experience in ProCom has been shaped by the people around him, from fellow officers to supervisors who have supported him along the way.

“I’m fortunate to have friends and supervisors who look out for me and whom I can depend on,” he shared.

Over time, his teammates have become more than colleagues. Whether sharing responsibilities, stepping in during challenging situations or simply looking out for one another, their camaraderie has become an important part of their daily work.

That support extends to his supervisors, whom SC/Sgt Zachary describes as people willing to go the extra mile for the officers under their charge. The trust they've built is especially important during training and deployments.

“We train regularly, so when incidents do occur, everyone knows what they need to do,” SC/Sgt Zachary said.

Regular training has strengthened not only their readiness, but also the bond between teammates – giving SC/Sgt Zachary a team he knows he can count on.

An Important Lesson

SC/Sgt Zachary’s time in ProCom has also reinforced an important lesson: the peace and security we experience in our daily lives should never be taken for granted.

During training, ProCom officers discuss security incidents from around the world, including those occurring closer to home. These serve as reminders of the importance of staying vigilant and being prepared to respond when needed.

With his NS journey coming to an end in February 2027, SC/Sgt Zachary reflects on the experiences and people that have made his time in ProCom meaningful.

“While the work may be routine at times, it’s always the small joys, like seeing kids waving at us or sharing a laugh with my colleagues, that keep me motivated,” he shared.

As SC/Sgt Zachary looks ahead to begin his studies at the Singapore University of Technology and Design, the lessons from his time in ProCom – to stay vigilant, trust those around him and be ready to step up when called upon – will stay with him beyond NS.

To find out more about Direct-Entry Inspector (DEI)/ Direct-Entry Sergeant (DES) positions, click the links below: