Answering the call

Written by Luc Yeo

PHOTO: Luc Yeo

It was 4 am in 2022. Chow Hong Wei Keane was on standby at Braddell Heights Fire Post when a resident reported a faint but persistent smell of smoke. Within minutes, Keane and his crew were on the move. Little did he know that this would be one of the most significant incidents of his National Service tour of duty with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).

As the source of the smoke was not immediately clear, emergency responders from the Singapore Police Force and SCDF worked together to identify its source. They soon managed to locate the fire, which had broken out at a nearby place of worship. What followed was a three-hour operation involving multiple agencies, intense firefighting efforts and close coordination on the ground. Thankfully, there were no casualties.

For Keane, the incident captured exactly what the Home Team stands for.

“This incident exemplified MHA’s mission statement perfectly. We worked together as One Home Team, and in partnership with the community, to keep Singapore safe and secure.”

A calling that started early

Keane receiving the SCDF Mid-Term Scholarship from Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Edwin Tong. PHOTO: SPF

Keane’s interest in a career with the uniformed services began long before that early-morning activation. Growing up, he was drawn to the Home Team’s work, often watching Crimewatch and observing how different agencies worked together to resolve complex situations. “I was intrigued by how meaningful, exciting and challenging their work seemed.”

“The nature of SCDF’s work resonated most strongly with me,” he said. “It was a place where I was confident in making a meaningful impact on both the wider community and our own officers.”

This conviction led him to pursue the SCDF Mid-Term Scholarship, a decision rooted not just in career ambition, but in a deeper sense of purpose.

Learning on the frontline

Keane (right) and Warrant Officer Asrul discuss lessons from the frontline. PHOTO: Luc Yeo

His National Service tour of duty at Sengkang Fire Station proved to be formative.

“Initially, I was concerned if I would be able to perform up to standard,” Keane admitted. “Mistakes could have real consequences.”

What helped was the station’s strong mentorship culture. The more experienced full-time National Servicemen and Regular Officers trained him through scenario simulations, helping him to improve over time.

One moment stayed with him.

During a drill close to his Operationally Ready Date, Keane instinctively pulled a hose line closer to support the nozzleman. After the exercise, Warrant Officer Asrul offered a simple tip: pull the hose by the coupling instead, as it requires less effort and is more efficient.

“It might seem like a small comment,” Keane reflected, “but to me, it reminded me that learning never stops. There is always room for improvement, no matter how much experience we possess.”

Lessons that last a lifetime

Keane donning the Firefighting Protective Suit, ready to board the Pump Ladder. PHOTO: Toh Ruihao

The lessons from the frontline stayed with Keane beyond his National Service days. Among the most important is adaptability, the ability to stay composed and respond effectively in rapidly changing situations.

“These are skills that remain useful even after National Service,” he said. “They will certainly come in handy when I start my SCDF career as a Rota Commander.”

What fuels his passion for SCDF is its core mission.

“The Life Saving Force does exactly what our name entails. We save lives and provide timely assistance whenever we are called upon.”

Leading with purpose

Keane shares his NS experience with young firefighters. PHOTO: Luc Yeo

As a future SCDF officer, Keane is clear about the kind of leader he hopes to be. Leadership, he says, begins with trust — building rapport so officers feel valued and understood, and articulating a clear vision that unites everyone towards a shared mission.

"When our officers are able to resonate with a common goal, we will be committed to achieving excellence together."

His studies in Political Science and Communications have shaped how he hopes to contribute to SCDF after graduation. While Political Science helps him understand Singapore’s national security concerns, Communications equips him with the ability to craft meaningful and effective public engagement messages.

Keane is also looking forward to making a difference through policy work. “Policy decisions directly shape how SCDF operates and set the strategic direction towards the best long-term outcomes.”

Keane stands before the mural at Sengkang Fire Station, looking forward to his SCDF career. PHOTO: Luc Yeo

A message to the next generation

For youths considering a career in the uniformed services, Keane shares, “You will be challenged mentally and physically. It involves public-facing roles where you must make decisions under pressure. You won’t walk the journey alone. Experienced mentors will guide and nurture you into capable officers.”

“The fulfilment that comes from helping your community daily is incredibly meaningful, because you know without a doubt that your work truly matters.”

His final advice is simple.

“Taking the first step is always challenging. But it will be worth it.”