SAF COC - Rule Two

At all times,
we must bear in 
mind that we are the protector
of our citizens
Even when we are out of uniform and off duty, we must have the defence of the people in Singapore at heart. We will treat members of the public with the respect they deserve and protect them against injury, violence or theft. We will consider ourselves at all times the protector of the Republic and its citizens. We serve our fellow citizens, and we must serve with humility and prudence.
It is not through fear of legal proceedings and punishment that we should act justly and graciously towards our citizens. We should realise that it is cowardly and disgraceful for any of us to attack a civilian and that any act directed against our fellow citizens is a traitorous act to the Republic.

Attitude Towards Citizens
We, as members of the Singapore Armed Forces will treat the citizens of Singapore with care and respect and protect their interests. We should never be rude and arrogant.

We should realise that it is our duty to protect all citizens, particularly women and children, from violence and brutality. We would be acting like the enemy of the Republic, if we are guilty of any brutality towards our own citizens.
At times, we might have to be strict with citizens of Singapore who turn against the Republic or act so foolishly that they endanger the lives of other citizens or even the safety of the whole Republic. Usually, however, we should never take any action against any citizen of Singapore except when ordered to do so by a superior officer.
Internal Security
In internal security duties, we should remember our role as protector of the citizens and the rule that minimum force is to be used. When we are called upon to assist in quelling riots and arresting mischief-makers, we must remember that such persons may be misguided fellow citizens who could become peaceful, law-abiding citizens again once they have regained their senses.
Our discipline, physical fitness and personal bearing should be of highest standard so that the smartness, confidence and efficiency at any scene of an incident may itself have a strong deterrent effect. There would be no need to use baton or gas if groups of misguided persons disappear at seeing a disciplined and respected force.
Indiscriminate use of fire-arms would result in the Armed Forces never being able to identify itself as the protector of our citizens. Fire-arms should only be used as a last resort, when the immediate protection of life and property becomes the foremost consideration and when ordered to do so by our superior officers.

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