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Slicing through the waves, an SCDF Marine vessel surges towards a distressed vessel. At the helm stands the Officer On Watch, scanning the incident scene intently and giving instructions to his colleagues, as they ready themselves for the challenges that lie ahead.
For SCDF’s Marine Specialists, responding to emergencies at sea requires more than firefighting skills. It requires navigation skills, teamwork, and the confidence to operate in Singapore’s waters.
The Start of his Journey
For WO1 Daniel Bin Idris, his journey with SCDF began with his National Service in 2012, when he served in the Civil Defence Academy as an instructor, training cohorts of Section Commanders and helping them grow into confident leaders.
Currently a Marine Section Commander, WO1 Daniel Bin Idris leads his crew and ensures their safety during operations. PHOTO: SCDF
“Being an instructor was a meaningful journey, as I got to meet trainees from all walks of life. It was inspiring to bring out the best in each of them and watch them grow,” he said.
Still, a part of him longed to experience frontline operations.
“Growing up, I have always wanted to help people,” he said thoughtfully. “Putting others first is second nature to me, and helping someone in need gives me a strong sense of fulfilment.”
That desire led him to join SCDF as a regular officer in 2015.
Drawn to the Sea
Early in his career, WO1 Daniel became interested in the various specialisations within SCDF. When he learnt about the SCDF Marine Division, it immediately caught his attention.
“I have always enjoyed swimming, snorkelling and diving, so the Marine Division felt like a natural fit,” he said with a smile.
After completing the Marine Specialist Course, he was posted to West Coast Marine Fire Station in 2018.
As WO1 Daniel accumulated frontline experience as a Marine Specialist, he also obtained specialised qualifications such as the Steersman and Helmsman licences, through nearly two years of sea time and extensive training. Now, he is an Officer On Watch, responsible for the vessel and the safety of his crew during operations.
WO1 Daniel (second row, third from right) and his colleagues after a training session at the ORCA training facility in the Home Team Tactical Centre. PHOTO: WO1 DANIEL BIN IDRIS
“As a Marine Specialist, we learn more than just firefighting,” he explained. “We also respond to medical emergencies. Sometimes, the vessel involved can be seven storeys or more in height, so we have to use rope systems to rescue the casualty and bring him onto our vessel safely. With substantial training in firefighting, rescue, and medical skills, our Marine Specialists are highly versatile and ready for any incidents at sea.”
“During operations, the team is split into the firefighting crew and the navigation crew. The navigation crew is responsible for bringing our firefighters to the incident scene safely,” he shared. “Therefore, we have to be well-versed in navigation and the steering of vessels, and be prepared to manage technical issues onboard.”
The serene view of the sea at West Coast Marine Fire Station gives WO1 Daniel a sense of calm. PHOTO: WO1 DANIEL BIN IDRIS
With years of experience under his belt, WO1 Daniel takes it upon himself to mentor his younger colleagues and National Servicemen, by sharing his knowledge and developing their skills.
“As our fire station is small, we treat each other like family, and I am the big brother to them. The fulfilment and joy from watching them gain proficiency and confidence is beyond words,” he said with a smile.
“Be it responding to emergencies, training together, or spending time outside of work, our bond is strong and we enjoy each other's company. It is something I treasure and look forward to every day,” he added.
WO1 Daniel and his colleagues after a run at East Coast Park on their day off. PHOTO: WO1 DANIEL BIN IDRIS
Training is a key part of every duty. The crew regularly conducts drills to simulate various emergencies, including firefighting and rescue operations, as well as joint exercises with industry partners and related agencies.
“These simulated exercises keep us prepared for various maritime incidents,” he said.
WO1 Daniel recalled a recent incident, where multiple agencies responded to a fire onboard a cruise ship en route to Singapore. More than 200 passengers were safely evacuated through the coordinated efforts of SCDF, the Maritime and Port Authority, the Police Coast Guard and private ferry operators.
“It was impressive to see everyone working seamlessly together. This was only possible thanks to the strong coordination from our joint exercises with related agencies,” he said.
Having been at West Coast Marine Fire Station for eight years, WO1 Daniel has operated a wide range of SCDF Marine vessels. These include pioneer vessels such as the Marine Fire Vessel (also known as Api Api), the Marine Command Vessel, as well as the 2nd Generation Marine Rescue Vessel, which was operationalised in 2025.
Each vessel serves a unique operational role. The Rapid Response Fire Vessels are designed for speed and agility, allowing the crew to reach a distressed vessel quickly, while the Marine Rescue Vessels are well equipped to manage different types of marine operations.
“No two vessels are the same. When a new vessel is commissioned, we have to learn everything about it, from using it in daily operations to routine maintenance. We take pride in caring for our vessels and we trust that they will serve us well during incidents,” he said.
Support from Home
Through it all, family has been a constant source of support for WO1 Daniel. He and his wife have three sons, aged five, six and seven; all of whom are proud of their father’s job.
“They like to tell their friends that their dad is a firefighter,” he said with a laugh. “And they always add that I don’t drive a fire engine; I steer a boat.”
WO1 Daniel also ensures that he sets aside time for his family. “Even though I am following a shift schedule, I will try to spend time with my wife and children, and be present for their special occasions,” he shared.
WO1 Daniel values the teamwork, trust and resilience forged with his colleagues over the years. PHOTO: WO1 DANIEL BIN IDRIS
Over the years, WO1 Daniel has witnessed the transformation of SCDF’s maritime emergency response capabilities.
“It is exciting to see how the Marine Division has evolved with new vessels and technologies that enhance our operational capabilities. I am truly fortunate for the opportunity to grow together with the Marine Division,” he said.
For him, learning never stops. “The nature of maritime operations is constantly evolving, so there is always something new to learn, be it a skill, equipment, or vessel,” he said. “If you never try something, you will never know how far you can go.”