With unwavering dedication, AC Ang Eng Seng and ASP Rachel Tay share their experience serving as Honorary Aides-de-Camp while also fulfilling their regular duties as Police officers.
By: Rose Maswida
It’s a role that many uniformed officers aspire to, with ceremonial duties on behalf of the highest office in Singapore!
Aides-de-Camp (ADCs) and Honorary ADCs (HADCs) are appointed by the Office of the President and comprise officers from the Singapore Police Force (SPF), Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). As a team, ADCs and HADCs work together to plan and organise state functions and events attended by the President.
Police Life speaks with Assistant Commissioner of Police (AC) Ang Eng Seng and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Rachel Tay to learn more about their journey as HADCs.
Tell us more about your career in the SPF.
I started my career as an Investigation Officer (IO) with Ang Mo Kio Police Division in 2006. After a brief stint as a Team Leader at Bukit Timah Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC), I was seconded to the Istana as a full-time ADC to former President SR Nathan. In 2010, I became the Commanding Officer of Sengkang NPC. Subsequently, I was posted to the Policy Development Division at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in 2013, before returning to the SPF as the Head of Operations and Security with the Police Coast Guard.
I then spent a year abroad pursuing a Master of Philosophy at the University of Cambridge under the MHA Postgraduate Scholarship. Upon my return, I served as the Principal Staff Officer to the Commissioner of Police and assumed the post of Deputy Commander at Ang Mo Kio Police Division. Since May 2021, I’ve been serving as the Commander of Woodlands Police Division. It has been a fulfilling and challenging journey where I work together with my officers to ensure the safety and security of residents.
On a personal note, I’m blessed with a joyful family of four, including my adorable twin boy and girl.
Why were you motivated to become an HADC and ADC?
I wanted to contribute more to the SPF, and the role of the ADC appealed to me. I was impressed by the professionalism displayed by the ADCs and HADCs that I’d interacted with, which led me to become an HADC in June 2006. After serving less than a year as an HADC, I joined the Officer of the President as a full-time ADC in May 2007.
What was the most memorable event you served as an ADC?
One of the memorable events that I enjoyed as an ADC was organising the 2009 National Day Investiture, an annual event presided by the President and attended by the Prime Minister, Cabinet, senior government officials and award recipients. I was given the responsibility of organising the parking and seating arrangements for more than 1,000 guests. It was eye-opening to learn the intricacies of event management and managing the ceremony. I had fun and felt invigorated to be given the opportunity.
What qualities and skills do you think an HADC or ADC needs to possess?
We play an important role in hosting guests at the Istana and ensuring that they have an experience they’ll fondly remember. It requires confidence and quick thinking to navigate unforeseen circumstances and a steadfast commitment to upholding the decorum and prestige of the Office of the President.
You’ll be stepping down as an HADC this year. What do you cherish the most about being an HADC and ADC?
The camaraderie and unity of purpose among the team – those are what I cherish most. Even after more than a decade with the HADC corps, I still immensely enjoy the duties and the strong camaraderie within our team. It’s wonderful and unique how the role brings together motivated and driven officers from across the SPF, SCDF and SAF to serve a single mission!
Can you share more about yourself?
I served as an IO from 2019 to 2021 at Jurong Police Division, investigating general and sexual crimes. I’m currently a Team Leader in Queenstown NPC, leading a team of 15 Ground Response Force officers, patrolling the streets and attending to “999” calls.
What inspired you to take on the role of an HADC?
I’m passionate about serving Singapore and my wish is to serve the highest office in the nation. This inspired me to take on the role of an HADC, effective from 1 June 2024. It was also this intrinsic commitment to our country and community that led me to become a Police officer and actively do volunteer work to give back to the community.
How will your experience as a Police officer help with your role as an HADC?
It will allow me to apply the soft and hard skills that I’ve developed as a Police officer to make a broader impact. These skills – which include being able to engage in meaningful and respectful conversations with people from all walks of life – are driven by an innate curiosity and concern for others and have been instrumental in my role of caring for guests at the Istana and ensuring that they feel welcomed and appreciated.
How do you feel about being one of the 16 new HADC appointees for this year?
I’ve always had a thirst for learning, both within and beyond the SPF. Over the years, the SPF has provided me with ample opportunities to develop myself, including for the HADC role, and I’m beyond thankful to be able to serve.
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