Supt (NS) Cyril Lim reflects on his commitment to the Force this Police Day, as Singapore celebrates 50 years of Police National Service.
By: Clara Wong and Domnic Dass
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) commemorates Police Day on 3 June, marking the unwavering dedication of our officers in safeguarding Singapore. This year’s celebration holds special significance; in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Police National Service (PNS), Superintendent of Police (Supt) (NS) Cyril Lim will lead the Police Day Observance Ceremony (PDOC) 2025.
Having joined the SPF as a Full-time PNS (PNSF) officer in 2008, Supt (NS) Lim is now the Deputy Commander (NS) of Jurong Police Division, where he oversees about 2,000 PNS officers in a range of frontline and support roles. He shares more about his policing journey with us!
You’re the second PNS officer to lead the Police Day Observance Ceremony. What does this mean to you?
I’m deeply humbled and honoured. To me, this appointment is both a privilege and a responsibility. It’s a testament to the trust and confidence that the SPF has placed in PNS officers, and I’m proud to be part of this tradition.
I‘ll strive to make the SPF proud and inspire fellow PNS officers to continue serving with honour and dedication. This moment is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of our collective contribution to the SPF’s mission.
Having progressed from NS Head Manpower, Admin and Logistics (MAL) to NS Deputy Commander of Jurong Police Division, how has your perspective on PNS evolved?
It has broadened significantly. Initially, my focus was on MAL functions and managing about 400 non-frontline PNS officers. Now, as NS Deputy Commander, I assist in overseeing around 2,000 PNS officers. Our Trainers ensure operational readiness through rigorous training while our Provosts maintain high standards of discipline. Seeing how these different roles support our division’s objectives has given me a deeper appreciation of the strategic importance of PNS. The dedication of our PNS officers also continues to inspire me.
Could you share a significant moment that highlights the crucial role played by PNS officers?
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many public officers were deployed to migrant worker dormitories and Government Quarantine Facilities. Our PNS officers stepped up to ensure the timely delivery of quality meals and refreshments, utilising skills and expertise from their day jobs to fulfil our mission.
Every year, our PNS officers also play a vital role in major events such as the National Day Parade, Singapore F1 Grand Prix and the recent General Elections. Beyond frontline deployments, our PNS officers also work behind the scenes in many support functions. They’re often the first to arrive and last to leave, setting up logistics before deployments and demobilising after an event has ended.
How has your family supported your commitment to PNS?
Deployments during holidays like National Day and New Year’s Eve mean sacrificing quality time with them, but my family has been very understanding. They’re proud of the impact I make, and their unwavering support allows me to focus on my responsibilities.
This year, to prepare for the PDOC 2025, I studied videos of past Police Day Parade Commanders to understand the expectations and requirements of the role.
Learning drills has been challenging as I had to get used to the weight and balance of the sword. Through regular practice and feedback from my trainers, I also learnt to project my voice clearly and confidently. With the support of all the officers involved, we’ll make the ceremony a success!
As we celebrate 50 years of PNS, what message would you like to share with current and future PNS officers?
I want to convey a message of pride and appreciation to past, current and future generations of PNS officers – a vital pillar of Singapore’s safety and security. Every shift scheduled, officer deployed and every resource well-managed contributes to the readiness of the SPF. We honour the many officers who uphold Singapore’s safety with quiet strength and unwavering commitment.
As PNS officers, we must continue to uphold the SPF’s mission and vision, working closely with regular officers to enhance operational effectiveness. Let’s continue to take pride in our service and uphold the values of commitment, duty and service to the nation.
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