This Father's Day, we celebrate a family that’s got service running through their veins and who’re taking the phrase "family goals" to a whole new level.
By: Domnic Dass
For this family in blue, service is more than just a duty – it’s a family tradition. Meet Inspector (Insp) Muhammad Fazli Bin Ismail from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and his two sons, Sergeant (Sgt) Muhammad Fikri Bin Muhammad Fazli and Sgt Muhammad Rushaidi Bin Muhammad Fazli, who’ve joined the Singapore Police Force (SPF) to carry on their father’s legacy!
Insp Fazli began his SPF journey at 17, joining Geylang Division as a Police Constable. “Since then, I’ve had the privilege of serving in various roles and divisions – I’ve seen the full spectrum of policing,” he recalled.
Now, his two sons are walking the same beat; wearing the same set of blue. “They chose this career on their own and it made me very proud,” shared Insp Fazli. “I’ve taught them the importance of integrity and responsibility. These values make them better men and Police officers, but they must also have a clear conscience to carry out their duty to the best of their ability, and to help others.”
Ties That Bind in Blue
Sgt Fikri, the eldest among three siblings, is a Ground Response Force (GRF) officer with Hougang Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC), while his younger brother Sgt Rushaidi is a GRF officer with Pasir Ris NPC. Besides being the first responders to “999” emergency calls, they also perform a range of vital duties such as patrolling neighbourhoods and public areas to project Police presence, supporting victims of crime and providing security for major public events.
Sgt Fikri’s decision to join the SPF in 2020 was inspired by his father’s steadfast career. Growing up, he saw firsthand the positive impact his father had on people’s lives. “I realised he wasn't just enforcing the law; he was making a real difference,” Sgt Fikri said. “I wanted to be a role model like him too!”
To Sgt Fikri, Insp Fazli has been a valuable mentor, shaping his career with his guidance and experience: “He’s always there to offer advice and support when I need it.”
Sgt Fikri shared that his dad always reminds him and his brother to be compassionate to those in need of assistance. “Once, I responded to an incident involving a child with special needs who’d gone missing,” he recalled. “The parent was frantic but I remembered my dad’s guidance clearly. After reassuring the parent, we worked hard to track down the child. We finally found him and reunited him with his parent, which was very fulfilling.”
Sgt Fikri: Happy Father's Day, Ayah! You’ve shaped me into the man I’m today. I’m forever grateful for your guidance and support. I love you always and please take care in your new role!
Following in His Father’s Footsteps
Sgt Rushaidi was also inspired to join the SPF in 2021 by his father. “I’ve observed him on the frontline, engaging with members of the public with respect and professionalism, regardless of the situation,” he explained. “My dad instilled in us the importance of patience and, most notably, treating others as we’d like to be treated ourselves.”
Now, this family trio shares a special bond, both on and off the job. “We share laughs and bonding moments, celebrating successes and overcoming challenges together,” Sgt Fikri said with a smile. “We’ve even got our own inside jokes that only we understand!”
On this Father’s Day, Sgt Rushaidi was glad to share the following: “Happy Father’s Day, Ayah! I appreciate everything you’ve done for our family, always putting on a brave front, even on difficult days. Here’s to many more years of service!”