2024 Review (Part 3)

FOCUSING ON OFFICERS’ LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, TRAINING AND WELL-BEING
 
Strengthening HT’s Leadership Capabilities

Strong and effective leadership is critical for the Home Team (HT) to stay ahead in an increasingly complex operating environment. In addition to driving leadership development for the HT,Home Team Academy (HTA) is working towards delivering programmes and initiatives that value-add to the Whole-of Government (WOG) leadership ecosystem. These include continual leadership development as well as developing and coordinating crisis leadership and management training.

As part of the Milipol Asia-Pacific & TechX Summit 2024 organised by HT Science and Technology Agency (HTX), HTA held the inaugural Leaders in Crisis Management Forum at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in April. With the theme of “Leading and Learning in the Polycrisis World”, the forum served as a platform for local and international leaders and experts to gather and share their unique perspectives and rich experience in crisis management relating to public safety and security. The forum was attended by over 500 participants from various HT Departments (HTDs), public sector agencies and international organisations. Comprising a good mix of local and international, professional and academic personalities from diverse backgrounds, the speakers shared personal experiences and insights on managing crises of various nature and forms, and their take on what constitutes a good leader in times of crises.

HTA will also continue to expand its international outreach to build the HT’s influence and promote thought leadership, through deepening of existing partnerships with key stakeholders, while cultivating new ones. In November, HTA conducted the inaugural Leadership Development Programme for 25 senior leaders from the Vietnam Ministry of Public Security.

This programme offered valuable insights into the HT's operations, challenges and strategic plans. Participants explored global and regional public safety trends influencing HT transformation, gained an understanding of Singapore's security capabilities through agency visits and honed leadership skills for navigating complex environments. These elements collectively enhanced our ability to address shared security challenges and fostered closer bilateral cooperation.

Elevating HTA’s International Partnerships 

Establishing collaborations with new and existing partners serve to strengthen bonds between the parties involved, as well as open up opportunities for collaborative activities of greater depth and purpose. As the main driver of training and learning in the HT, HTA actively seeks to expand its network of partners in various fields – such as continuing education and training and homefront safety and security – that support the growth and development of HT officers.

In 2024, HTA signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the first being with the Australian Border Force in April. HTA also signed an MoU with the Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan in December. Both MoUs seek to strengthen HTA’s collaboration with our partners in terms of capacity building in the areas of leadership development, trainer development, and the use of innovative technologies in training and learning.

These MoUs are in addition to the Letter of Intent HTA signed with France’s L'Institut des hautes études du ministère de l'Intérieur in January. The LoI affirms the commitment between both parties to further the development of areas of common interest, such as leadership development and crisis management through a range of activities such as exchange programmes and seminars.  

Building HT Values, Principles and Culture Using LEGO® Serious Play®

As the corporate university of the HT, HTA continuously explores innovative training and learning methods. In February, HTA piloted the use of LEGO® Serious Play® (LSP) facilitation method to harmonise training on HT Values, Principles and Culture in a series of three one-day workshops titled “Brick by Brick: Building HT Values, Principles and Culture using LEGO® Serious Play®”.

Facilitated in-house by HTA’s LSP-certified officers, the workshop aimed to inculcate the ‘One HT’ mindset by helping HT officers better understand the connections between HT Values, Principles and Culture. The workshop incorporated insights from the newly launched HT Culture Guide, providing participants a better understanding of the three dimensions of the HT’s culture. Through tangible representations of LEGO models, participants demonstrated how these three dimensions of the HT’s culture serve as pillars for HT officers, aligning their actions and decisions with the overarching values and principles of the HT, fostering a cohesive and purpose driven approach to their work.

Enhancing HT’s Simulation Training Capabilities 

As a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Simulation Training for Incident Management, HTA aims to bring realistic and effective training in this area to the HT, WOG and at an international level. Specifically, HT officers are trained in managing large-scale security incidents and joint operations in a safe and realistic setting, with lower manpower and operational costs.

On 6 November, HTA and Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) celebrated a major step forward in training innovation with the opening of the HT Simulation System (HTS2) satellite centre at ICA Sea Domain Training Centre. This milestone marks the second such facility jointly deployed by HTA, HTX and other HTDs.

More than just a training facility, this new satellite centre exemplifies the HT’s forward-thinking approach to security and serves as testament to the HT’s commitment to innovation, readiness and staying ahead in today’s fast-paced security landscape.

Launch of HTA’s Revamped Smart Classrooms

At the HT Training Excellence Awards 2024 in September, HTA launched its first enhanced Smart Classroom which is equipped with features designed to enhance the training and learning experience of both trainers and trainees. The classroom is designed to support training in physical, virtual and hybrid formats and features an AI-augmented video camera with voice-tracking features that can cast live training sessions or record training sessions for remote classes or webinars.

These next generation smart classrooms are designed with the learners and trainers in mind and feature built-in lighting sensors and enhanced acoustics along with ergonomic and configurable classroom settings to promote a conducive learning environment. The smart panels are also packed with digital tools and applications to enable effective learning and engagement. HTA will be building more Smart Classrooms over several phases with the first phase of 31 classrooms expected to be completed in September 2025.

Achievement of Silver Ribbon Award for Third Consecutive Year

In October, HTA received the award for the third consecutive year. This recognition highlights HTA's ongoing commitment to fostering a mentally healthy and supportive work environment.

HTA prioritises the well-being of its officers by offering flexible work arrangements and a variety of initiatives focused on mental health and team bonding. These include dialogues on mental health strategies and workshops designed to promote wellness. HTA will continue to support its employees' growth and development, working closely with them to build a stronger workplace culture.

Follow HTA’s LinkedIn page for more HT Training and Learning updates!

BOOSTING ABILITIES TO SAVE MORE LIVES

Launch of Electric Pump Ladder

The Electric Pump Ladder (E-PL) was launched at the inaugural Milipol Asia-Pacific - TechX Summit 2024 on 3 April. The E-PL is Asia’s first fully electric pump ladder and is a joint project by HTX’s Vehicle & Weapon Systems Centre of Expertise and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).

The E-PL is a class 4 vehicle with a capacity of 2000 litres of water and 400 litres of foam, capable of travelling up to 400 km in hybrid mode. Some of its features include:

- Front swivel seats for better crew communication and movement;
- Safety features such as all-wheel drive, adjustable ground clearance and electronic braking systems; and
- Battery-powered modular firefighting machine that can be deployed deep into risk areas and transport equipment. 

SCDF Workplan Seminar 2024

Minister of State (MOS) Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim was the Guest-of-Honour for the SCDF Workplan Seminar 2024 on 4 July at Ngee Ann Polytechnic.

In his speech, he acknowledged the complex operating environment faced by SCDF and commended SCDF officers for their dedication and courage. He then announced the launch of SCDF’s Transformation 2030 vision – “Prepared, Even for the Unexpected”. He shared a few initiatives such as the new generation breathing apparatus with telemetry capabilities and the enhancement of training and development for SCDF officers.

MOS Faishal also announced SCDF’s multi-prong approach to address the increased demand for emergency medical services (EMS) and manage the workload of EMS crews. These initiatives include the launch of dynamic deployment pods, triaging and prioritising of EMS calls and increasing manpower for EMS. 

MOS Faishal concluded by thanking all SCDF officers for their hard work and unwavering dedication to SCDF’s mission of saving lives and property. 

Launch of AED-on-Buses by SCDF and SBS Transit

Since its launch in 2015, the Save-A-Life Initiative has enhanced the community’s response to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest cases through various initiatives such as the myResponder mobile application and the increased availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in residential heartlands.

The AED-on-Wheels programme is an extension of the Save-A-Life Initiative, which equips private-hire vehicles and vehicles in the logistics industry with AEDs, while training their drivers in lifesaving skills such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of AEDs.

On 8 November, with the launch of AED-on-Buses, SBS Transit became the latest partner in the AED-on-Wheels programme. MOS Faishal was the Guest-of-Honour for the launch.

How it works

When the myResponder app reports a cardiac arrest case in the vicinity of an equipped SBS Transit bus, the responding Community First Responder (CFR) will be notified that an AED is available on the specified bus service number. The CFR can then flag down the approaching bus at the nearest bus stop, retrieve the AED onboard and swiftly attend to the patient.

Furthermore, all SBS Transit bus captains participating in the AED-on-Buses programme are CPR-AED trained. This allows both bus captains and commuters to resuscitate a cardiac arrest patient before SCDF’s arrival, increasing the chances of survival.

Fifty-three buses from Services 138, 268 and 851, as well as three SBS Transit patrol cars, will be equipped with AEDs. This will increase the availability of AEDs in industrial areas and estates with a high density of senior citizens. This brings the total number of vehicles in the AED-on-Wheels programme to 441.

Scenario Exercise

MOS Faishal and guests observed a scenario exercise in which SBS Transit bus captains and commuters responded to a cardiac arrest incident, demonstrating their CPR and AED skills.

With the AED-on-Buses initiative, the accessibility and coverage of AEDs on our roads will be greatly enhanced, improving the chances of survival for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest cases.

SCDF Parade 2024

SCDF Parade 2024 was held on 14 November at the Singapore Expo. On this special day, SCDF officers gathered to reaffirm their allegiance and dedication to SCDF’s lifesaving mission. The event was also an opportunity for SCDF to recognise the contributions of its valued partners and volunteers.

MOS Faishal was the Guest-of-Honour for the SCDF Parade 2024. In his speech, MOS Faishal commended SCDF for its continuous and collective efforts in strengthening its operational capabilities, whilst fostering closer ties with local communities and international partners.

Led by LTC Neo Jia Qi, more than 600 participants took part in SCDF Parade 2024. The marching contingents comprised officers from SCDF’s Land and Marine Divisions, Civil Defence Lionhearters, National Civil Defence Cadet Corps cadets, Community First Responders and NSmen from 21 Public Shelter and Resilience Unit.

SCDF units, community partners and various stakeholders were recognised for their contributions and initiatives in support of SCDF’s lifesaving mission. 

During the parade, “The Unbreakables”, a full set of 20 limited edition figurines, based on the Operation Lionheart contingent deployed to Türkiye in February 2023, were presented to donors who had supported the fundraising initiative of the Singapore Red Cross. Developed in collaboration by SCDF and Accenture Song, the proceeds raised by “The Unbreakables” figurines will support the humanitarian efforts of the Singapore Red Cross, uplifting the lives of vulnerable communities.

A cheque made up of the donations raised by the Operation Lionheart Charity Initiative 2024, was presented by Commissioner Eric Yap to Mr Muralli Raja Rajaram, a Singapore Red Cross Council Member.

Performing for the first time at the SCDF Parade, SCDF’s Music and Performing Arts Club sang a number of songs, including an original composition, The Life I Chose - a fitting tribute to all SCDF officers who have dedicated themselves to saving lives.

The SCDF Parade reflects on decades of unwavering courage and commitment from SCDF officers past and present, who stand ready to protect and save lives and property.

Groundbreaking Ceremony for New SCDF Marine Division HQ

On 15 November, SCDF Marine Division held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the commencement of construction works for its new Marine Division Headquarters (HQ). MOS Faishal was the Guest-of-Honour.

The new SCDF Marine Division HQ will feature state-of-the-art facilities and technological capabilities, including an Integrated Command Centre (ICC). The ICC will enhance SCDF’s ability to monitor and coordinate the responses of SCDF and its maritime partners, such as the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the Police Coast Guard during maritime incidents.

Targeted for completion in 2026, the new SCDF Marine Division HQ will leverage smart technologies to optimise operational efficiency and promote sustainability. Some initiatives include:

• Data visualisation tools (e.g. drones, body worn cameras, ship-based sensors) to provide real-time overview of incidents;

• Smart Store that automates inventory management by digitally tracking the withdrawal and restocking of supplies; and

• Water conservation systems and use of renewable energy to conserve resources.

SCDF Marine Division will be expanding its fleet of vessels by 2029 and increasing its Marine bases from four to six by 2035. SCDF will also be trialling the use of Unmanned Surface Vessels and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to augment marine firefighting and rescue operations. These will provide enhanced coverage across Singapore’s waters and increase SCDF’s readiness to manage multiple maritime incidents simultaneously.

CNA Insider Part 1 & 2

In March, CNA Insider featured a 20-minute Observational Documentary (OD) that provided realistic insights into SCDF's EMS response during medical emergencies. Titled "On Call with Singapore's Emergency Medical Services: When Minutes can mean Life or Death", the OD has since garnered over 500,000 views and earned numerous positive reviews and encouraging comments from viewers worldwide.

Riding on the success of the first OD, SCDF collaborated with CNA Insider to produce Part Two, which was published on CNA Insider’s digital platforms on 5 December. This 11-minute OD features SCDF officers from EMS Department and the SCDF Operations Centre as they provide their thoughts and reactions to actual emergency calls and incident footage. Part Two aims to further humanise the lifesaving work of our EMS personnel and 995 call takers by focusing on the challenges they face, which may sometimes include verbal and physical abuse from the public.

*All scenes involving patients and their Next-of-Kins have been blurred in the documentary. Where possible, SCDF has also sought consent from the patient's Next-of-Kin to use the filmed footage in the documentary.

SPOTLIGHTING AI AND CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS OF FORCE MULTIPLYING HT’S CAPABILITIES

Inaugural Milipol Asia-Pacific & TechX Summit

The inaugural Milipol Asia-Pacific & TechX Summit (MAP-TXS), Asia Pacific’s flagship homeland security gathering covering both public and private sector security, took place from 3 to 5 April at Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore. Co-organised by Singapore’s HTX, GIE Milipol and Comexposium Singapore, the biennial event comes under the auspices of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of the Interior of France.

Themed "Powering Innovation: A Safe and Secure Future”, close to 12,000 senior government officials, operational experts, industry leaders, security providers, integrators and academia converged on the event over three days to discuss security solutions, strategies, best practices, challenges, as well as technological trends; and foster collaboration within the homeland security community.

MAP-TXS was launched by a high-powered delegation which included Minister K Shanmugam, Second Minister Mrs Josephine Teo as well as Mr. G. Darmanin, France’s Minister of the Interior.

At TechX Summit, industry leaders explored a range of topics aligned with this year’s theme, "Artificial Intelligence and Homeland Security," including the global deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in security, AI integration across industries, AI safety and regulation, border security and management, the fight against cybercrimes and scams and the development of human-centric AI innovations.

The MAP-TXS exhibition attracted the participation of over 350 exhibiting companies including those that formed national pavilions from China, Italy, France, Germany, Hungary, Singapore and the US.  

At the vibrant HTX booth, our friendly Xponents invited visitors to immerse themselves in an experiential journey across five zones: Saving Lives, Solving Crimes, Safeguarding Public Spaces, Securing Borders and Seeding Innovation, showcasing how we force-multiply the HT through science and technology. Singapore’s first E-PL was also launched at the event!

The HTX Pavilion also featured a unique Cybersecurity Capture-The-Flag event, co-organised by HTX and the SANS Institute. The event encouraged collaboration among participants from Institutes of Higher Learning, industry and government agencies to defend systems against attacks and optimise cybersecurity using AI.

Leveraging AI in Homeland Security
 
HTX launched its AI movement on 1 June, with the goal of deploying AI capabilities across the entire HT and making it AI-ready in the next few years.

The adoption of AI is not novel to the HT, as computer vision AI models have already been used in the automated immigration clearance lanes at Changi Airport as well as in the nationwide Police Camera network.

AI is currently being further developed and scaled across various HT technologies, from combating deepfakes through Alchemix and enhancing video security systems for SCDF marine vessels, to solving crimes with TextOracle — an AI-powered solution designed to improve forensic handwriting analysis.

In preparation for becoming an AI-first organisation, M365 Co-Pilot was rolled out to all Xponents, empowering them to fully harness the potential of AI and enhancing their ability to create, communicate and collaborate more effectively. 

HTX 5^th Anniversary Celebrations

A series of exciting events themed "Hands Across HTX", kicked off celebrations for HTX’s 5th Anniversary in 2024!

First up was the HTX Convention in May, where Xponents embarked on an immersive interstellar journey. Guided by HTX’s Value Ambassadors—each representing one of HTX’s core values—they joined forces to help restore cosmic stability in a thrilling mission!

At the event, Chief Executive Chan Tsan also reflected on HTX’s growth, introduced HTX’s "AI-First" strategy, and featured the launch of the Hi-5 system, enabling Xponents to stay connected across locations, symbolised by a real-time high-five count – with the goal of reaching 555,555 high fives before HTX’s 5^th Anniversary celebrations in December.

At the HTX Awards, a total of 62 awardees and teams received recognition for their work in the past year. This includes the “Undaunted Award” where teams are encouraged to embrace failure and spur innovation.

In celebration of HTX’s 5th anniversary on 1 December, two special events were held on 29 November to mark the occasion.

DASH in the morning saw more than 650 Xponents travel via bicycle or on foot from eight satellite offices across Singapore to HTX HQ. This segment was deeply symbolic as it reflected how HTX was first formed in 2019 by bringing together tech talent from the various HTDs and MHA.

Celebrations continued at the annual Dinner & Dance with Minister, Permanent Secretary (PS) (Home Affairs) Pang Kin Keong, PS (Home Affairs Development) and HTX Chairman Aubeck Kam, retired PS (Home Affairs Development) and past HTX Chairman Chew Hock Yong, and the HTX Board of Directors gracing the event, together with 1500 Xponents and guests.

A fun and immersive gallery encapsulated special moments of HTX’s impactful five-year journey. This was followed by Minister’s speech conveying sincere appreciation to HTX and Xponents for force multiplying HT’s capabilities in the past five years.

To cap off the fifth year, HTX was also awarded Singapore's Best Employer for the second year in a row. This independently conducted employee survey exemplified Xponents’ vote of confidence in HTX.