At the Annual Police Dinner 2023, President Halimah Yacob was presented with the Temasek Sword in appreciation of her unwavering support for the Police officers keeping Singapore safe and secure.
By: Christabelle Lim
The Annual Police Dinner took place on 7 July 2023 at the Istana, in appreciation of individuals and community partners who have contributed considerably to or worked closely with the Singapore Police Force (SPF). The theme of this year’s Dinner was “Forward Together – Our Force for the Nation,” in recognition of the unity of spirit that the SPF has built over decades of service to Singapore.
A Crucial Role
About 500 community partners, guests and SPF officers attended this year’s Dinner, which was especially significant for playing host to President Halimah Yacob. Since assuming office in 2017 as Singapore’s first female President, President Halimah has played a crucial role in strengthening the partnership between the SPF and the community.
In June 2022, President Halimah officiated the Police Day Parade as the Reviewing Officer, inaugurating the SPF200 Bicentennial Medal and Medallion to commemorate 200 years of policing in Singapore.
President Halimah has also helped to enhance the SPF’s ties with international law enforcement agencies, strengthening collaborations and knowledge exchange in fighting transnational crime. This has reinforced Singapore’s position as a trusted partner in maintaining law and order in the region and beyond.
A Singular Honour
In recognition of her unwavering support for the SPF, President Halimah was presented with the Temasek Sword by Commissioner of Police (CP) Hoong Wee Teck. Engraved with the name of every CP, the Temasek Sword is the highest honour accorded by the SPF and serves as a fitting tribute to President Halimah. Her legacy will continue to guide the SPF in its mission to prevent, deter and detect crime.
Another special gift that was presented to President Halimah at the Dinner acknowledged her unstinting support for vulnerable communities – a vibrant batik artwork painted by the residents of Jamiyah Home for the Aged and officers from Bedok Police Division that depicts her at Police Day Parade 2022.
A Toast to Loyalty and Service
The Dinner was also a testament to the unique history and legacy of the SPF. In keeping with time-honoured tradition, President Halimah presented the Piper Major with the Quaich, a drinking cup from Scotland with two handles. And as the Dinner drew to a close, the guests were treated to a moving performance by the SPF Combined Band that paid tribute to the SPF’s exemplary spirit of service.
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