Next up in our series: Changi NPC – championing migrant workers engagement, pioneering anti-scam efforts and uniting communities with music!
By: Domnic Dass
Changi Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) was officially opened on 5 January 2001 and is one of the six NPCs under Bedok Division. Renowned for its robust migrant worker engagement programmes and inventive anti-scam efforts, Changi NPC has made significant strides in educating residents about the latest scam trends!
Supporting Migrant Workers During COVID-19
As part of their community engagement efforts, the NPC’s Community Unit Policing (CPU) officers deliver in-person and online crime prevention talks at migrant worker dormitories and oversee the selection of Migrant Worker Ambassadors. These Ambassadors serve as a vital link between the Police and the dormitory community in helping to share crime prevention advisories with their peers.
Such engagement efforts came to the fore during the COVID-19 pandemic. To better support the migrant worker community, Superintendent of Police Shabbir Yusuf, Commanding Officer of Changi NPC, proactively initiated daily morale checks with Migrant Worker Ambassadors within the Changi sector. The goal? To ensure their well-being and provide a friendly ear for any concerns. Important findings were promptly shared with relevant authorities such as the Ministry of Manpower, Ministry of Health and Forward Assurance and Support Teams.
The results are telling – since 2021, the officers of Changi NPC are appointed as the division-level Anti-Crime Champion for their outstanding commitment to engaging and supporting migrant workers.
Combatting Scams and Crime through Innovation
Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Changi NPC also took proactive measures to continue its outreach to local residents within its jurisdiction. Officers pioneered a scam quiz via Facebook Live that covered a spectrum of prevalent scams, equipping residents with the knowledge needed for self-protection. The innovative scam quiz set a remarkable precedent that has inspired other NPCs to follow suit.
A Harmony Beyond the Uniform
Want to know more about the officers of Changi NPC? Meet Sergeant (Sgt) Danesh Asyraff, a Ground Response Force (GRF) officer who’s part of a talented “band” of brothers that’s helping to build bridges with residents at community events!
What motivated you to join the Police, and what does your current role entail?
I joined the Singapore Police Force (SPF) because I have a strong commitment to serve the community. Being a Police officer gives me a unique opportunity to contribute to society directly. As a GRF officer, I help residents resolve conflicts, conduct preliminary investigations into offences and organise community outreach events. The job's diverse challenges keep me motivated.
How did your music group with your colleagues come together, and what’s your role in the band?
The band comprises officers from Bedok Division and I’m new to it myself. We’re known as the Gryphon Band, after our division’s mascot. I’m the vocalist and rhythm guitarist. Other members include Sgt Ahmad Bin Hashim on bass guitar, Station Inspector (SI) Jamal Khairi on keyboards, SI Irwan Iskandar on cajon and SI Zaiful on vocals.
We started with casual jam sessions before progressing to performing at SPF events and now, for the community! The band participates in community events and performs for residents within our jurisdiction.
How does your participation in the Gryphon Band support your work as an officer?
Music serves as a bridge to the community by helping to build rapport and goodwill with residents. Our band members also come from different teams within Bedok Division, and bonding through our music reminds us that we’re part of the bigger SPF family and helps to reinforce our morale and working relationships!
Want to learn more about the other NPCs from "Our NPCs" series? Click here to find out more: Queenstown, Orchard, Hougang, Nanyang, Woodlands West.
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