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Since they were young, twin brothers SGT1 Irfan Iskandar Bin Abu Hasrin and SGT1 Arfan Andreanee Bin Abu Hasrin have been inseparable. They attended the same schools, played the same sports - tennis and floorball - and even joined the same co-curricular activities. This close bond continued into their National Service when they enlisted in the SCDF at the same time.

They embarked on their Basic Rescue Training (BRT) at the Civil Defence Academy (CDA) together, but their paths soon diverged. After the first week of BRT, SGT1 Irfan set his sights on becoming a Section Commander, while SGT1 Arfan went for the Firefighter Course.

Despite training together for only a week during their BRT, the brothers shared many light-hearted moments. "It was funny at times, when our instructors and fellow trainees mistook one of us for the other," SGT1 Arfan said with a laugh.

The brothers taking a photo together during their trainee days. PHOTO: SGT1 ARFAN ANDREANEE BIN ABU HASRIN

Sharing more about their physical conditioning, SGT1 Irfan said, “We gym and train together, just like we always have.” The biggest adjustment for the twin brothers was adapting to the environment. "We had to learn to be independent and take care of ourselves and our gear.”

"The physical training was tough, but we always strived to challenge each other and do better," SGT1 Arfan chimed in, adding that their shared drive helped each other pull through. “As we progressed through our training, we grew more confident and emerged stronger, both physically and mentally.”

After SGT1 Arfan graduated from the Firefighter Course in October 2023, he was posted to Changi Fire Station and joined Rota 1 as a firefighter. Two months later, when SGT1 Irfan completed his Section Commander Course, he was also posted to the same station and joined Rota 2 as a Section Commander.

“We really did not expect to be posted to the same fire station,” SGT1 Arfan shared.

"Initially, I was hoping that I would be assigned to the same Rota as my brother," SGT1 Irfan admitted. "However, we realised this arrangement is actually better, as we get to respond to different emergencies and learn from each other’s experiences."

SGT1 Arfan agreed, "As a Section Commander, my brother is leading a small team of four firefighters. As a firefighter, I focus on the proper execution of my assigned task during each incident. Understanding each other’s roles and perspectives at the fireground has helped us to appreciate the challenges faced by the other."

SGT1 Arfan would often seek leadership advice from his brother, while SGT1 Irfan would ask about the challenges that his brother faced. This openness and candidness proved useful as they adapted to their respective roles.

"As frontliners, we must uphold high standards to save lives. With the leadership advice and encouragement from my brother, I can better support my commanders and colleagues,” SGT1 Arfan explained.

For SGT1 Irfan, learning from his brother offered an advantage. "As a Section Commander, I have to assess situations and be decisive while prioritising the safety of my team. As my brother is a firefighter, understanding things from his perspective helps me to be more aware of my team’s concerns and expectations.”

Both brothers agreed that since their posting to the fire station, the experiences gained on the ground, together with consistent training, have built their confidence and proficiency. Moreover, their personal growth would not be possible without the support of their colleagues at the station.

“We greatly appreciate the guidance and encouragement from our supervisors and fellow NSFs. They have made our National Service experience and journey fun and rewarding,” SGT1 Irfan said with a smile.

Outside of work, SGT1 Irfan (first from right) and SGT1 Arfan (third from right) will often bond over sports, such as cross-country runs. PHOTO: SGT1 ARFAN ANDREANEE BIN ABU HASRIN

A defining moment in their National Service journey came when they responded to the same fire in Loyang.

Barely an hour before the end of their shift, SGT1 Irfan’s Rota was conducting a high-rise fire scenario drill at Changi Fire Station when they received the emergency call. "We swiftly responded to the incident, established the water supply and set up the water jets to keep the fire under control. As it was a prolonged operation, our shift ended and the next Rota took over from us," he explained.

His brother, SGT1 Arfan was among those who relieved the firefighters on-site. "After a brief exchange with my brother at the fireground, my Rota took over and we continued to fight the fire until it was completely extinguished," SGT1 Arfan recalled.

The brothers’ shared experiences at Changi Fire Station have not only strengthened their bond but also deepened their admiration for each other. 

For SGT1 Irfan (left) and SGT1 Arfan (right), helping those in need is their most fulfilling takeaway from National Service in SCDF. Sharing this journey together has made it even more special. PHOTO: SCDF

"Since young, I have admired my brother’s leadership. He steps up even when things are tough. Although he does make mistakes sometimes, he learns and grows from these experiences," SGT1 Arfan said.

SGT1 Irfan, in turn, praised his brother’s perseverance. "My brother has an incredible ability to overcome adversity. He struggles at first, but he never gives up. I remember when he responded to a fire incident at midnight. He was part of the Red Rhino crew that contained the fire before the fire engine arrived. I am very proud to see him gain confidence and become the firefighter that he is today."

Now in the last month of their National Service, both brothers agree that it was filled with challenges, growth, and pride. "From attending the same primary school to serving the nation together in the SCDF, it has been an incredible journey,” SGT1 Arfan reflected.

SGT1 Irfan nodded, "Being a part of the SCDF is truly fulfilling. Whenever we respond to a call and help people in their hour of need, it directly impacts their lives in a meaningful way. Doing it alongside my twin brother makes it even more special."