Singapore has enjoyed an extended and unprecedented period of peace and security, largely attributed to the assiduous work of the Singapore Police Force (SPF). By placing a strong emphasis on community engagement, commitment to justice, and innovative crime prevention and detection strategies, the SPF plays a crucial role in safeguarding Singapore’s reputation as one of the most secure cities in the world.

Supt Lee Ting Wei is an exceptional individual whose unwavering dedication to justice and protecting the vulnerable has propelled him on a remarkable path. As a recipient of the prestigious Singapore Government Scholarship (Police), he pursued a Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London. Currently serving as Head of Operations & Security at the Police Coast Guard (PCG), Ting Wei works tirelessly to ensure public safety in Singapore waters.

We learn more about Ting Wei and his tireless work with the SPF in safeguarding the nation.

What sparked your interest in police work?

Police work resonated with me at a young age, as I witnessed various instances of injustice during my childhood. While the severity of such occurrences differed, it inspired a strong calling for me to be part of a system that enforces justice and ensures the protection of the vulnerable. This led to a strong drive in me to find out more about police work during my secondary school days, where I joined the National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC). My experience in NPCC further cemented my interest, as I found that police work strongly aligned with my personal beliefs and interests, and that led me to sign on to be a Police Officer.

That’s interesting! How has the Singapore Government Scholarship supported you in your pursuit of these goals?

The scholarship allowed me to take up a discipline of study at Imperial College London. This was something that would have been out of my family’s means. At the same time, the scholarship provided ample allowance for me to sustain myself comfortably in a foreign country, and that gave me the opportunity to broaden my horizons as well as gain insight into various aspects of life in London. As part of the scholarship programme, we were also brought back to Singapore for various attachment programmes in different departments and divisions in the SPF, which exposed me to different aspects of police work early. This gave me the added advantage of understanding the challenges and issues faced in policing Singapore well before I embarked on my career as a Police officer, which helped me gain a broader perspective on policing and government policy.

Can you tell us more about what a typical workday is like?

As Head of Operations & Security at PCG, my job is to ensure that PCG’s operations run smoothly as well as develop operational capabilities to improve PCG’s operational effectiveness.

Being part of a staff branch, the bulk of my workday revolves around meetings with local and foreign stakeholders to discuss a variety of operational and policy issues. I also conduct trials to validate new technology, as well as visit the ground to understand the issues faced by officers.

Lee Ting Wei

What do you find most rewarding about this job?

I find that the work I have undertaken at my various postings in the different departments over the years is meaningful because it impacts the safety and security of all Singaporeans. On a personal level, I take satisfaction in being part of the criminal justice system to protect the vulnerable against others who would exploit them.

That’s truly commendable. Can you tell us about a standout achievement from your career?

A significant achievement in the course of my career would be the drafting of the Force-wide Business Continuity Plan for training during the COVID-19 pandemic. Training had to resume despite the pandemic. At the same time, tactical competencies and physical training made it near impossible for there to be complete physical segregation. I had to work closely with all of SPF’s units to ensure that their training needs continued to be met in a safe manner, while reducing the risk of infection. It was an extremely challenging project, but through rigorous discussion and sound principles, we were able to devise a plan swiftly and facilitate its implementation in the various units.

How has the SPF provided you with opportunities for growth within the organisation?

The SPF is a huge organisation which allows for a diverse career, and enables officers to learn through exposure to many various areas of work- including but not limited to operations, investigation, intelligence, public relations, logistics, corporate planning, and more. In my eight years in the Force, I have done investigations, training, operations, and specialist operations, as well as policy pieces involving resourcing and manpower. There is no lack of opportunities within the SPF to gain new skills and competencies. Though the nature of work differs amongst units, all of them are in service of our mission to prevent, deter and detect crime.

Any final words of advice for those looking to join the Force?

Policing work is a calling, and it is important to ensure that your aspirations align with what the SPF can offer. What the SPF can offer would be a fulfilling and meaningful career where you can make a tangible and significant impact in the lives of Singaporeans, and a community of passionate and committed officers who are as invested in the same mission as you.