From ten recruits in 1949 to over 1,800 today, women in the SPF have come a long way. Here’s what went down at the 75th Anniversary celebratory event, from policing to piloxing!
By: Christabelle Lim
Hundreds of female Police officers gathered at Star Vista on 13 April 2024 to celebrate 75 years of women in policing, at a milestone event organised by the Police Women’s Committee of the Singapore Police Force (SPF).
The day kicked off with piloxing, a high-intensity boxing and pilates exercise! Female officers from various SPF units, as well as their families, came together to pilox with Guest of Honour Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information & Second Minister for Home Affairs.
It was a heartwarming affair as the video montage of the 75-year journey played in the theatre, and officers took a moment to reflect and appreciate the challenges that female pioneers in the Force overcame, as well as their achievements and contributions over the decades.
At the atrium, lots of activities awaited members of the public! The weapons display booth was a huge hit with children, giving them the chance to get up close and handle the weapons that Police officers use – of course, with no rounds and friendly officers on hand to assist!
Next up, it was time for the demonstrations by officers from the Ground Response Force, Emergency Response Team and Security Command, all of whom displayed grit, professionalism and energy!
Another crowd favourite was the performance by the SPF Combo Band and the Women Police Pipes and Drums (WPPD) Band. They serenaded and thrilled the audience with their melodious voices and soulful pipes.
Besides celebrating the progress and achievements of women in policing, the anniversary event also provided an opportunity for the public to meet our officers and gain insight into what policing is like from the perspective of fellow women.
"The progress and achievements of our women in policing did not come about by chance. It is the result of the sustained hard work of generations of policewomen, women who have challenged the gender norms and overcome prejudices, with grit and courage.” – Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Communications and Information & Second Minister for Home Affairs
Throughout the day, a stream of attendees came to explore the activities at the atrium. Beneath the smiles of both officers and attendees, there was an underlying sense of pride and fulfilment, one that arises from mutual support that our female officers share.
To our women in policing past and present, thank you for your tireless dedication to safeguarding Singapore.
Read about the inspiring women in the Force in our “Her Police Story” series here!
Keen to learn more about a career in policing? Find out more here!