DAC Koh Chao Rong is a recipient of the Singapore Government Scholarship (Police) and has obtained a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University College London in the United Kingdom and a Master of Science in Management Science and Engineering from Columbia University in the United States of America. He is currently the Deputy Commander of Clementi Police Division of the Singapore Police Force.
Driven by his unflagging belief in justice and a profound commitment to ensuring Singapore’s safety, DAC Koh Chao Rong plays a key role in overseeing Clementi Police Division’s crime-fighting efforts and operations, and in ensuring operational readiness. His leadership is characterised by unparalleled dedication and diligence. Additionally, he works with the Public Order Response Force (PORF) to effectively manage public order incidents.
We delve deeper into his passion for policing and uncover the inspiring reasons behind his ambitious pursuits.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in the Police Force?
I was looking for a purposeful career, one that would allow me to make a difference to the community. I was drawn to policing because of the action and rewarding nature of the work. Policing goes beyond enforcing laws; it’s about ensuring justice, impacting lives and protecting our home and our way of life.
What also deeply motivates me is the dedication and resourcefulness of our men and women in blue that I’ve witnessed during my 11 years of service with the Force. I treasure the strong camaraderie among our officers, and they inspire me to serve and contribute to building a stronger Force for both current and future generations of officers, and for the nation.
That’s inspiring! What sparked your decision to apply for the Singapore Government Scholarship (Police)?
I chanced upon the Police Scholarships when I signed up for the Home Team Attachment Programme during my junior college days and decided to apply for it.
The immediate perk of the scholarship was the opportunity for an overseas education, an experience I wouldn’t have had otherwise. Beyond this, the scholarship offers a wide range of opportunities for growth and development. During our vacation breaks, we get to go for attachment programmes at SPF units and the various Home Team Departments to witness frontline action firsthand. I also had the privilege of attending a sponsored summer programme in the United States of America.
Moreover, I benefited from the strong support network. Seniors within the programme organized informal chats and gatherings, generously sharing their tips on university life and work.
DAC Koh Chao Rong
Can you walk us through a typical day at work for you?
As a Deputy Commander, I support my Commander to lead a team of more than 650 officers to safeguard the safety and security of the community. I oversee the day-to-day operations to ensure mission success, implementing crime-fighting strategies and partnering with our community stakeholders to keep our neighbourhood safe. I’m also responsible for the training, morale and discipline of our officers, ensuring that we maintain a high standard of professionalism in the discharge of our duties to uphold public trust in the SPF.
Every workday is dynamic and unpredictable. While I may begin by clearing emails and reviewing crime reports, I’m often called upon to manage a major crime incident or crisis situations on the ground. I also dedicate time to meeting community stakeholders, addressing public feedback, and reviewing plans to improve operational readiness and work processes. Furthermore, I engage with my officers through career chats and dialogues.
Despite the challenges, I find fulfilment in knowing that my efforts contribute to keeping Singapore safe for our residents and businesses. Witnessing the growth and success of my officers is particularly rewarding, as I play a role in supporting them to achieve their full potential. These moments reinforce my passion for the job and to continue empowering those who serve alongside me.
Where are your aspirations for the near future?
I hope to be able to grow professionally, undertaking roles in the core functions of policing, and contributing positively to the careers and well-being of our officers. I also hope to build a more future-ready SPF.
Finally, do you have any words of wisdom for those looking to pursue a similar career?
If you have a strong sense of justice, a desire to make a difference, and like to seek out challenges and growth, this could be a perfect career for you. Policing is more than just a job – it’s a calling. And by answering that call, you’ll discover a sense of fulfilment and purpose that’s hard to find elsewhere.
