Officers from the SPF battled it out at the Johore Shield, demonstrating their precision and mental resilience.
By: Shavina Sri
On 11 October 2024, officers from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) came together for one of their most prestigious sporting events – the Johore Shield. Now in its 71st year, this shooting competition tests not only the marksmanship of officers but also their mental toughness.
The origins of the Johore Shield date back to 1953 when the Johore Police presented it to the SPF in appreciation of the support rendered from 1948 to 1952 during the Communist insurgency. Today, the Johore Shield remains an important symbol of the warm bilateral ties between the two forces. It has also become the ultimate mark of marksmanship excellence within the SPF, serving as a challenge trophy for the Force’s inter-unit firearms competition.
Held at the Home Team Academy, this year’s event challenged officers with a range of shooting tests. Targets were placed at distances ranging from five to 25 meters, each requiring different techniques and levels of focus. However, the competition was about more than just hitting targets – it demanded control, self-discipline and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
The day began with a comprehensive safety briefing, setting the tone for the competition ahead. In the viewing gallery, there was a sense of focus, with officers reviewing tactics and prepping for the upcoming shoots.
When it was time for the final showdown, the officers stood ready, their attention locked on their targets, waiting for the command. Then, with the call of “Watch your front,” the sound of gunfire echoed through the range, with each officer aiming with precision.
Once all rounds were fired, the officers exited the range to have their scores calculated. A sense of anticipation filled the air as everyone waited eagerly, curious to see how they'd performed.
This year, officers from 10 units competed in the finals – Ang Mo Kio Police Division, Bedok Police Division, Jurong Police Division, Tanglin Police Division, Internal Security Department, Police Coast Guard, Police Security Command (SecCom), Protective Security Command, Special Operations Command and Training Command.
Station Inspector (SI) Mohamad Shaiful, team captain for Bedok Police Division, is no stranger to the Johore Shield. Since 2010, he has been a dedicated participant and even earned the title of Top Shooter in 2012. With over a decade of marksmanship experience, SI Shaiful understands that winning isn’t just about hitting the target; it’s about staying sharp and maintaining composure under pressure.
“For me, the hardest part is keeping calm; it’s all about self-control,” he explains. “When you’re standing on the line, it feels like it’s you against yourself. You want to be better than the last time you competed.”
As a team leader, SI Shaiful emphasises continuous improvement and discipline. “Our team trains regularly, shooting from various distances,” he shares. “For us, this competition is about representing our Division and fostering a strong sense of pride."
Another sharpshooter at this year’s Johore Shield was Inspector (Insp) Ong Hock Soon. He has been part of the SPF’s competitive shooting community since 2006, initially competing with Jurong Police Division and later with the Public Transport Security Command. After a hiatus, he returned to Jurong Police Division in December 2022, eager to sharpen his shooting skills again.
Participating in the 71st Johore Shield holds a special meaning for Insp Ong. “I’m proud to showcase my shooting skills with my fellow officers and to promote the sport within the SPF,” he shares.
Insp Ong faces a unique challenge, particularly in the 25-meter kneeling segment, due to a knee injury from an accident. However, this hasn’t deterred him from competing: “I believe in the importance of consistent training and attend all scheduled sessions with my teammates.”
Reflecting on his shooting journey, Insp Ong recalls the inspiration he gained from a teammate, Superintendent of Police Han Teck Kwong, during his early years. “He taught me that every champion was once a rookie,” he recalls. “If we give our best, we’re champions in our heart."
This winning spirit was embodied by every team that took part in this year’s Johore Shield. And once all the scores had been counted, it was the SecCom that took the Overall Champion trophy. Congratulations to all the officers who gave their best, in the spirit of friendly competition!
Explore Our Content
Editor's Pick
