Embodying the values of the SPF over two centuries.
By: Irwan Shah
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has served different governments through history, from the British colonial era to the present day. Let’s take a journey back in time to uncover the meaning behind each Police crest over the past 200 years.
The Straits Settlements Police Force (1800s–1942)
The SPF has its roots in the Straits Settlements Police Force. The Force’s crest comprises a lozenge badge of the Straits Settlements surrounded by a wreath. Three Tudor Crowns within the white pall in the crest represent the three territories of the Strait Settlements – Singapore, Malacca and Penang. This crest was officially used for over 100 years leading up to 1942.
Singapore Police Force (1946–1959)
The Straits Settlements were dissolved in 1946. Singapore became a Crown Colony while Malacca and Penang became a part of the Malayan Union, resulting in an evolution of the Police crest.
The scroll on the crest was changed to bear the words “Singapore Police Force” and the red lozenge replaced with a white disc. The three Tudor Crowns were replaced by a St Edward’s crown in the centre of the red pall reversed. This crown marked the era of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign from 1952 onwards.
Polis Negara Singapura (1959–1963)
Singapore attained self-governance in 1959 and our state flag was introduced, prompting a change to the Police crest in December that year. The St Edward’s crown and the red pall reversed were replaced with the red shield emblazoned with the crescent moon and five stars of Singapore’s coat of arms while the scroll bore the words Polis Negara Singapura.
Polis Di-Raja Malaysia (1963–1965)
Singapore joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. During this period, the SPF was integrated into the Polis Di-Raja Malaysia (Royal Malaysia Police) along with the police forces of Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak. A lion’s head, representing Singapore, was placed at the centre of the new crest. Crossed behind the lion’s head were a traditional Malay keris (dagger, representing Malaya) and a traditional Borneo parang elang (machete, representing Sabah and Sarawak). A wreath of paddy stalks ringed the lion’s head while a Malaysian crown was placed above the wreath.
Singapore Police Force (1965–2015)
With Singapore’s Independence in August 1965, the Police crest reverted to the one before 1965, with minor updates. The red shield emblazoned with the crescent moon and five stars returned to the centre of the crest. Two blue and white garlands of paddy sheaves surrounded the shield. The words on the scroll were changed to Polis Repablik Singapura.
Singapore Police Force (2015–the Present Day)
The current SPF crest was unveiled in 2015. Its stylised, modern look represents the SPF’s commitment to looking forward while honouring our heritage. At the centre of the crest is the red shield with the crescent moon and five stars. The paddy wreath symbolises substance and humility, crowning the shield to represent our commitment to the SPF’s mission of safeguarding the nation. The blue ribbon supporting the paddy wreath is inscribed with Polis Repablik Singapura, a reminder of our history over 200 years!
Want to learn more about the SPF’s proud history and heritage? Visit the Police Heritage Centre!
Explore Our Content
Editor's Pick
