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Published 30 May 2023
2-min Read

DAC Tan Yi Chun explains why he holds Police Day close to his heart.

By: Domnic Dass

Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police (DAC) Tan Yi Chun joined the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in 2005 and is currently serving as the Deputy Director for Infrastructure Protection Regulation at the SPF’s Centre for Protective Security (CPS). This week, he’ll take on the role of Parade Commander on a day that’s special to all officers – Police Day, 3 June. He shares his story with us!

Parade Commander in ceremonial uniform
PHOTO: Naveen Raj

What inspired you to become a Police officer? 
I wanted a job that was challenging and real. That’s why I joined the Force in 2005. Since then, I’ve served as the Commanding Officer of Marine Parade Neighbourhood Police Centre from 2015 to 2018; Assistant Director of Future Operations & Planning in the SPF’s Operations Department from 2018 to 2020; and Head Operations of Ang Mo Kio Division in 2020. Additionally, I was also the Aide-de-Camp to the President of Singapore from 2012 to 2015.

group of uniformed officers taking a squad photo at Home Team Academy
DAC Tan (middle row, fifth from left) with his squad during his Senior Officer Basic Course in 2005. PHOTO: DAC Tan Yi Chun

Tell us about your current role in the SPF.
I’m the Deputy Director for Infrastructure Protection Regulation at the CPS. I oversee the regulatory aspects of the Infrastructure Protection Act (IPA), which regulates protective security matters for Critical Infrastructures, High-profile Developments and Protected Areas and Places. 

What’s the significance of Police Day?
Police Day is celebrated on 3 June every year. On that day in 1959, Singapore obtained self-government and the SPF became accountable to the people of Singapore as the law enforcement agency of an elected Government. Police Day is special because it’s the day that we celebrate our achievements, recognise the contributions of our officers, remember our fallen officers, and rededicate ourselves to the Force and our nation.

photo of DAC Tan wearing a white long sleeve rehearsal attire, holding a sword and taking the police pledge, with his fist clenched on his left chest
DAC Tan leading our officers in the Police Pledge during a Police Day Parade rehearsal. PHOTO: Soh Ying Jie

How did you feel when you first found out that you’d be the Commander for this year’s Parade? 
I felt honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the Parade. When I shared the news with my family, they were all excited about it, especially my three young children. My wife has been very supportive and understanding about the commitment required.

photo of DAC Tan infront of the contingent, in a stationary position with his sword pointing upwards, during a rehearsal
DAC Tan and fellow officers during a Police Day Parade rehearsal. PHOTO: Roger Yue III

If you could describe the experience as Parade Commander in one word, what would it be, and why?
Proud – I feel proud to be part of a Parade that celebrates the contributions of our officers, the achievements of the Force and how far the SPF has progressed over the decades.  

What would you like to share with your fellow officers who’re taking part in this year’s Police Day Parade?
I really appreciate the hard work and effort that all our officers have put in from the first day we started preparing for the Parade. Having witnessed the journey and the dedication of our officers, I’m confident that the Parade will be memorable!

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