The Singapore Prison Service awards 575 volunteers and partners

SINGAPORE, 2 August 2024 – The Singapore Prison Service (SPS) held the annual SPS Volunteer Award Ceremony today, in recognition of the commitment and contributions of the SPS volunteers and community partners in supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates and ex- offenders. This event, held at the Singapore EXPO, was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Associate Professor Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of National Development.

SPS volunteers and community partners support the inmates and ex-offenders in their rehabilitation and reintegration in various ways, such as conducting religious counselling, academic tutoring, life skills training, and providing pro-social support. A total of 575 awards were given out to the volunteers and community partners at the event today. 505 individual volunteers received the Long Service Awards for their 3-year, 5-year, 10-year, 15-year, more than 20-year contributions in supporting inmates and ex-offenders in their rehabilitation and reintegration journey. Introduced in 2023, four Throughcare Hero Awards were given to dedicated volunteers who have supported the inmates during their incarceration and after their release from prison. Appreciation Plaques, 10-year Journey Shields, and Journey Shield Tokens were given to 66 community partners which have worked closely with SPS to support inmates and ex-offenders in their rehabilitation and reintegration.

This annual event themed “Stronger Together, Rebuilding Lives”, recognises the contributions of SPS volunteers and community partners and at the same time highlights SPS’s commitment to mobilise the community to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of the inmates and ex-offenders. Today, SPS partners about 4,500 volunteers from more than 60 organisations, and SPS will continue to rally for more community support. “I feel honoured to be one of the many volunteers receiving this award. I am glad to be part of the community with so many passionate and like-minded people where everyone is making a difference, no matter how small it might be.” said Ms Lim Liyin, a volunteer with New Life Stories, who received the 3-year Long Service Award. Echoing the same sentiment, Mr Ranjit Singh Vahan, a volunteer with Sikh Welfare Council, who received the 15-year Long Service Award, shared “I feel very happy and encouraged as I have been given this opportunity to show people that whoever does ‘sewa’ (service) will get rewarded.”

“Volunteers are integral to the corrections system in Singapore, significantly aiding in the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates and ex-offenders. Their contributions through mentorship, education, training, and emotional support are invaluable, helping to address the complex needs of inmates. Volunteers’ dedication and expertise facilitate the development of skills, coping mechanisms, and positive behaviours in inmates and ex-offenders, which are crucial for their successful reintegration into society. The Singapore Prison Service is grateful for their unwavering commitment and compassion, which fosters a culture of empathy and second chances within the community,” said Dr Joyce Chan, Assistant Director of the Community Partnership, Family Policy Branch, Rehabilitation and Reintegration Division at SPS.