Minister’s Awards Presentation Ceremony 2020 Congratulatory Remarks – Speech by Mr Desmond Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment

1. 2020 has been a particularly challenging year because of the disruptions to our daily lives brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, this has also been a year that underlined the value and importance of innovation in finding solutions to complex and evolving situations. Our Home Team officers are no strangers to dealing with adverse circumstances. I am glad that our officers have adapted and found creative solutions to overcome the challenges faced.

2. This year’s recipients of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) InnovA Award showcase excellent examples of how the Home Team has been constantly innovating to ensure the safety and security of Singapore. The award recipients have combined their ground experience with an innovative spirit to adapt to evolving situations, and developed solutions that improved our operational effectiveness. Take for example Project JARVIS by the Singapore Police Force (SPF), and the Mobile Diary by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB). These projects have revolutionised the way our investigation officers work to solve cases, and also engendered greater team collaboration, and a more efficient workflow as well as manpower savings.

3. Today’s ceremony also recognises officers who have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to service excellence. These officers went over and beyond their scope of duties to help others. Such a spirit of service excellence and dedication to creating a positive impact on those around us is indeed commendable.

4. Congratulations to all the MHA InnovA Award and Star Service Award recipients. Keep up the spirit!