Driven by an innate sense of duty and desire for justice, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Cammy Chua Carin has always aimed for a career that allows her to make a tangible difference in her community. During her last year of Junior College, a conversation with a Singapore Police Force (SPF) officer revealed the agency’s community-centric approach, which deeply appealed to her.

Recognising the SPF’s crucial role in maintaining national safety and security, ASP Chua found her true calling in law enforcement, becoming the first woman to receive the Singapore Merit Scholarship (SPF).

Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Experimental Psychology from University College London and a Master of Science in Human Resource & Organisations Management from the London School of Economics and Political Science, she now serves her community as an Investigation Officer (IO) with Ang Mo Kio Police Division.

We delve into ASP Chua’s journey and her commitment to keeping Singapore safe and secure.

Can you tell us a bit more about your scholarship journey?

I was initially torn between the SPF and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). However, after speaking with officers from both organisations, I realised that I was more interested in the SPF as the nature of policing is more community-centric, allowing me to have a direct impact on my community.

I intended to apply for the Singapore Police Force Scholarship (SPFS) at first. To qualify for the scholarship, I had to excel in Officer Cadet School (OCS). I later found out that a woman had yet to be awarded that scholarship. Wanting to prove that women are as capable, I made it my mission to be the first woman to be awarded the SPFS and started my military training after I wasshortlisted for the scholarship. I was offered the Singapore Merit Scholarship (SPF) and went on to become the first woman to receive this scholarship.

That’s admirable! How was your experience undergoing Basic Military Training (BMT)?

I really enjoyed my time in the army, particularly in OCS. The experiences that I had with my friends and platoon mates were unforgettable.

OCS was tougher than BMT in terms of discipline and physicality. However, being an active person, I liked the physical training in OCS. There were difficult times but the camaraderie between me and my platoon mates and the encouragement that they gave me throughout helped me push on. It made me realise that overcoming challenges together is what really bonds people. That’s what made it so worthwhile and memorable.

ASP Cammy Chua Carin

Let’s talk more about your university experience. How did the scholarship help support your studies?

Without the scholarship, I would not have been able to pursue my studies abroad. Studying in a different country allowed me to be exposed to different socio-economic and political issues. It has also given me opportunities to work with students from various cultures and backgrounds, broadening my perspective towards teamwork and project management.

How have you been able to apply what you learnt to your work?

My background in psychology has shaped the way I approach and interview people involved in police cases, for example, victims who have gone through a traumatic experience. My understanding of how childhood experiences and environments influence a youth’s behaviour has also given me a nuanced perspective towards young offenders.

That makes a lot of sense. Can you elaborate on what being an IO entails?

The main responsibility of an IO is to solve crimes. We investigate various cases to find out the truth and ensure justice is served. The day-to-day tasks of an IO can include managing crime scenes, interviewing parties involved, sourcing for and following new leads, tracing persons of interest, prosecuting or taking action against defendants, and so on. Most workdays are dynamic and involverunning from place to place to follow up on cases. It’s a great fit for people like me, who enjoy a dynamic and ever-changing work environment.

What’s the work culture at the SPF like?

The team spirit and camaraderie I’ve experienced in the SPF is something I am very proud to be part of. My squad in Training Command and my current team in the Investigation Branch have shown me what teamwork should be. Because we all work towards a common, purposeful mission, the work culture is one where we proactively support and offer help to each other.

What do you hope to achieve through your work?

I hope to add value to my community and the SPF, even if it’s only on a small level. I would love to know that I have made a positive impact on someone.

That’s wonderful. Finally, can you tell us more about the possibilities that await people who would like to join the SPF?

There are many departments in the SPF that one can explore throughout your career, and each will provide a unique experience of its own! For scholars, you may also receive opportunities to contribute beyond the SPF in other public agencies or even private companies.