The Singapore Police Force (SPF) officially announced on 19 February 2024 the formation of a new Point-to-Point Industry Safety and Security Watch Group (iSSWG), marking a significant step towards enhancing road safety and security.
The iSSWG is a collaboration between SPF and the National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA) and the National Taxi Association (NTA) to leverage the unique position of taxi and private hire drivers as the eyes and ears of the police on the roads.
This strategic partnership is set to improve the SPF’s ability to ensure road safety and combat crime and terrorism more effectively.
By engaging these drivers systematically, the initiative underscores a commitment to a safer and more secure transport environment for drivers and passengers.
NTUC Assistant Secretary-General Yeo Wan Ling highlighted the iSSWG’s alignment with NTUC’s mission to ensure the safety and well-being of workers.
“This collaboration with the Singapore Police Force is part of our associations’ ongoing efforts to provide a safe work environment for our private hire and taxi member drivers.
“As safeguarding members’ safety remains a top priority, our drivers can look forward to benefiting from the knowledge-sharing sessions in road safety and advisories provided by SPF,” said Ms Yeo, who is Advisor to NTA and NPHVA.
Echoing this sentiment, Director of the Community Partnership Department, Assistant Commissioner of Police (AC) Shng Yunn Chinn said: “The Police will continue to work closely with stakeholders from the point-to-point transport [sector] who play a crucial role in contributing towards the safety and security of Singapore.”
He also committed to organising initiatives such as brown bag sessions to equip stakeholders with essential knowledge on road vigilance, safety measures, and crime prevention.
The iSSWG’s key objectives include promoting the safety and security leadership within the point-to-point transport industry, facilitating regular updates on relevant safety, crime, and security advisories, and establishing structured engagement platforms.
These platforms are designed for knowledge sharing, enhancing emergency preparedness, and strengthening crime prevention awareness among drivers and commuters.
NTA President Raymond Ong Thiam Khoon and NPHVA General Secretary Joseph Goh Say Sing welcomed the partnership, noting that driver safety is a paramount concern.
“With the new iSSWG, our drivers now have access to the latest road safety measures to help them stay safe on their journeys. At the same time, equipped with this knowledge, drivers can do their part to contribute towards building a safer driving environment for all road users in Singapore,” they said.
Outstanding Community Partnership Award recipient, Grab Holdings
At the event, Minister of State for Home Affairs Sun Xueling presented the Outstanding Community Partnership Awards (OCPA) to 45 stakeholders.
This acknowledgment highlights collaborative efforts in combating crimes, with special mention to Grab Holdings for its proactive measures in supporting the SPF’s crime prevention initiatives.
Ride-hailing platform Grab has been instrumental in fortifying its defence against financial fraud by working closely with the SPF’s Anti-Scam Centre (ASC).
This partnership led to the development and implementation of robust safeguards designed to thwart scammers’ attempts to misuse Grab’s platform for the reception and laundering of illicit funds.
The measures not only protect Grab’s users but also contribute significantly to the broader fight against digital financial crimes.
