BEACONS OF HOPE

Having two ears and one mouth may be intended so that one can listen more and talk less. This is exactly what Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) paracounsellors practise, as they devote much time and effort to lend a listening ear to those in need.

Held biennially, the SAF Paracounsellors Appreciation Dinner honours the service of paracounsellors for their passion toward helping their fellow servicemen and women. This year, a total of 214 awards were given out to deserving recipients by Chief of Navy, Rear-Admiral (RADM) Chew Men Leong, on 27 Nov at SAFRA Mount Faber.

Among the recipients were Lieutenant-Colonel (LTC) Chong Han Sy, who was presented with the Distinguished Service Award, and Master Sergeant (MSG) Ng Jaan Woei, who received the Outstanding Newcomer Award.

For both, the award came as a surprise. "We're not in this for awards, but it is a nice gesture from the counselling branch," said LTC Chong, who is the Deputy Commanding Officer of 182/189 Squadron.

"I have my Commanding Officer to thank, because he fought for me to get into the counselling course," said a grateful MSG Ng, who is from the SAF Military Police Command.

Paracounsellors are trained in suicide management, grief counselling, and generic counselling. Equipped with the necessary skills, they provide a measure of support for servicemen and women facing personal crises.

For the 3rd Generation SAF to develop into a more psychologically resilient, flexible and adaptable force, the role of paracounsellors must be further emphasised as they are the ones "strengthening the capabilities of SAF to maximise the potential of our most precious resource our people", shared RADM Chew.

"When we help people overcome their personal challenges, it helps to strengthen their morale and contributes to the operational readiness of the SAF," added LTC Chong.

LTC Chong started his journey as a paracounsellor in November 2005. Armed with a degree in Chinese and Chinese Literature, he started a Chinese tuition class in the Detention Barracks to help detainees prepare for their GCE 'N', 'O' and 'A' level examinations. Under his patient tutelage, his students have achieved outstanding academic results.

For MSG Ng, who works in the medical section of the Detention Barracks, he sees his paracounsellor role as a complement to his job.

"When new detainees come in for medical screening, I am the first point of contact with them, and I can help those with problems adjusting to their new environment," he explained.

Despite his tireless contributions, MSG Ng shared with cyberpioneer that he has reaped much more than he has sown. "I have changed from being an impatient person to someone who is willing to lend a listening ear," he said."

This positive change is something my wife can vouch for!" he added with a chuckle.