Inspired by his family history in policing, SC (V) Sarjit Singh shows what dedicated service means as a pioneer VSC (Community) officer at Bukit Panjang NPC.
By: Shannon Ng
With seven years of experience as one of the pioneer Volunteer Special Constabulary (VSC) (Community) officers at Bukit Panjang Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC), 63-year-old Special Constable (SC) (V) Sarjit Singh is a familiar face around the neighbourhood.
Since 2018, he has consistently clocked in 23 hours monthly, far exceeding the minimum requirement of eight hours. His dedication and passion has earned him several volunteer awards, including the Best VSC (Community) Officer Award in 2022 and the VSC Outstanding Award, which he has received yearly since 2019.
Police Life speaks with SC (V) Sarjit to learn more about his volunteer journey and his motivation to serve.
What inspired you to volunteer as a VSC (Community) officer?
My grandfather and father were Police officers. Growing up, I was always proud of their dedication and courage to serve, which left a lasting impression on me.
For a long time, I wanted to follow in their footsteps, but my family responsibilities and career commitments in the financial services industry made it difficult for me to pursue that path.
As age caught up with me, I was unable to volunteer as a VSC officer. However, the stars aligned when I read a Straits Times article in April 2018 introducing the VSC (Community) scheme. It spurred me to apply immediately, as I saw it as a way of carrying on my family’s legacy.
Share your roles and responsibilities as a VSC (Community) officer.
Working alongside the Community Policing Unit (CPU), I help build trust with the community and maintain visibility to deter crime. I conduct patrols in Bukit Panjang and Upper Bukit Timah neighbourhood areas, and engage residents to share crime prevention and anti-scam advisories at community events.
I also carry out Crime Risk Surveys with retailers in shopping centres to advise them on theft prevention measures.
Additionally, I took it upon myself to manage the duty schedules for Bukit Panjang NPC’s VSC (Community) officers. Acting as a liaison officer between the volunteers and CPU officers, I check in regularly with the team on their well-being and foster team cohesion, such as organising makan sessions with CPU officers on duty to break the ice before patrols.
Describe your relationship with the team at Bukit Panjang NPC.
They have become my second family. From day one, the CPU officers welcomed me as one of their own and have been generous in sharing their knowledge.
Within the NPC, there’s a strong culture of collaboration, mutual respect and camaraderie between the officers and volunteers. Working together to keep the community safe, we’ve built lasting bonds and developed a shared sense of pride in our work. They motivate me to continue serving with heart!
What do you find rewarding about being a VSC (Community) officer?
The most rewarding part is knowing that I’m making a real difference with every action. Whether it’s offering assurance to residents and retailers, supporting community events or showing Police presence during patrols, every interaction helps build trust between the Police and the residents of Bukit Panjang.
I’ve also gained valuable skills such as staying calm under pressure, effective communication and conflict resolution, which are applicable in my daily life.
Beyond service, the sense of belonging and camaraderie with fellow officers makes the role deeply fulfilling.
What advice do you have for new VSC (Community) officers?
Stay humble and be open to learning, because this journey is as much about personal growth as it is about service.
How do you effectively manage your time to balance your work, volunteer service and family?
It requires discipline, planning and prioritising what truly matters.
Despite personal challenges, including supporting my wife through illness, I manage by organising my time with care and being fully present in each of my roles. For me, it’s about finding harmony between commitments – driven by purpose, not sacrifice.
Volunteers in Blue
In this series, we shine a spotlight on our dedicated volunteers who serve with passion and commitment across various schemes within the Singapore Police Force. Read about other volunteer stories here.
Ready to embark on a rewarding journey with the SPF and make a difference in the community? Find out how you can join the VSC (Community) here or visit our website to step up to a career that goes beyond.
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