This International Women’s Day, join Sgt Joreen Yap as she shares her inspiring journey as a Personal Security Officer with the Police Security Command!
By: Al Cheng and Domnic Dass
In the fast-paced world of protective security, vigilance and resilience are not just requirements, they’re a way of life.
According to Personal Security Officer (PSO) Sergeant (Sgt) Joreen Yap, her journey as a Police officer began on 24 July 2013 – a date she proudly remembers as 24/7, a number that symbolises her unwavering dedication to policing.
Chasing the Dream
After four years as a Ground Response Force officer with Kampong Java Neighbourhood Police Centre, Sgt Yap took up the role of a Community Policing Unit officer in 2018. This stint gave her a new perspective on proactive policing and the importance of forging strong ties with the community.
But even as she thrived in community policing, a long-held ambition lingered in her mind – joining the Police Security Command (SecCom). “It’s something that I’ve wanted since I joined the Force," Sgt Yap shares.
However, this aspiration seemed unattainable due to the high standards required of SecCom officers. Determined to give her best, Sgt Yap made a conscious effort to prioritise her fitness, eventually achieving Gold for her IPPT.
Her training took another step forward when her friends introduced her to the high-intensity F45 workout regime: “I remember my first session – I was breathless, barely finishing the class. But what made me stay on for that one year was the encouragement of my friends.”
It was all worth it when Sgt Yap’s application to SecCom succeeded and she became a PSO in November 2020.
A Role of Honour and Responsibility
As a PSO, Sgt Yap’s role is to ensure the safety and security of her protectee. A typical day on duty for her can last between 12 to 16 hours, which demands constant vigilance and focus, but Sgt Yap embraces the challenges.
“I have to be firm but not rude, approachable but not overly friendly,” she says. “It’s about being professional and having good situational awareness at all times, like anticipating potential dangers in a crowd.”
Sgt Yap also notes the importance of ground experience to ensure that operations proceed smoothly. “As our protectees frequently attend public events, we need to work closely and communicate effectively with various staff, and pay sharp attention to every little detail,” she says.
Training for Excellence
To respond swiftly and effectively to incidents, PSOs undergo specialised training in close protection tactics, tactical firearms and advanced vehicle manoeuvring tactics, amongst other skills. “There are also many other types of training that we undergo, but you’ll only know what they are when you become a PSO,” she quips.
To maintain her physical fitness, Sgt Yap trains at least four times a week and even works out on her days off, maintaining a routine that keeps her grounded and ready.
Balancing her duties with her personal life is no easy feat, but Sgt Yap is fortunate to have a strong support system at home. Her husband, who is also a Police officer, understands the demands of her job, while her friends are equally supportive. “I’ve chosen to have a handful of low-maintenance friends, and that helps!” she says with a laugh.
This International Women’s Day, Sgt Yap’s message to her fellow female officers is one of encouragement: “Your strength, dedication and resilience inspire me every day. Let’s keep lifting each other up and celebrate the wins, big or small. We’re making a difference every day!”
Explore Our Content
Editor's Pick
