SGT3 Syahrir (left) is an Emergency Medical Technician section commander from Yishun Fire Station while SGT2 Syahkir (right) is a Fire & Rescue Specialist from Kallang Fire Station.
Growing up, SGT3 Muhammad Syahrir Bin Shahar and SGT2 Muhammad Syahkir Bin Shahar shared a lot in common — they love collecting insects and chasing monitor lizards. And every Sunday morning, they would be out skateboarding, and sometimes, cycling around the neighbourhood in their bicycles. Now, as SCDF officers, they share a passion to protect and save lives and property.
SGT2 Syahkir, 25, has always wanted to join SCDF since he was in secondary school. “There was this spark of passion within me when I was younger, that is, to help others in need, and at the same time, I enjoy adrenaline pumping sports. This is the reason why I feel that joining the SCDF is perfectly fitting for me,” said SGT2 Syahkir.
Agreeing with his younger brother, the 29 year-old SGT3 Syahrir added that joining the SCDF enables him to develop himself as a capable and dutiful person. “SCDF operations are indeed physically and mentally challenging. I would say that I’m a person who loves to take on new challenges because I see it as a way to improve myself and my mindset. Also, being trained with life-saving skills and dealing with real life situations allows me to become a great help to others even when I’m not on duty.” SGT3 Syahrir.
Joining SCDF was one of the best decisions the brothers felt they have made. Not only were their teenage dreams realised, they also enjoyed the camaraderie of their colleagues at work.
“My colleagues are what brings a smile to me every time I go to work,” said SGT3 Syahrir. “Being able to overcome tough operations together changes everything. We become closer and this makes working with them so much easier.”
SGT2 Syahkir added, “And after every operation, seeing the relief on the faces of a casualty or an affected family member brings a lot of satisfaction in what I do. This makes me excited for work every day.”
“My brother is physically stronger, whereas for myself, I tend to be more of the thinking type of person who likes to plan ahead before executing,” SGT3 Syahrir chuckled jokingly when asked about their working styles as siblings.
“We are rather similar but different in terms of our abilities. For me, I tend to be more efficient and like to get things done faster,” said SGT2 Syahkir.
As we celebrate International Siblings’ Day this month, Rescue 995 took this opportunity to ask the brothers what they would like to say to each other.
“To my brother, I hope that you will strive to be the best in everything you do or want to do. I will always be supportive of your good intentions and may you stay safe at all times,” said SGT3 Syahrir.
In response, SGT2 Syahkir added, “Thank you, for the countless times you have helped me and all the things that you have always done for me and the rest of your siblings. Even at this age, you are still there for me. Love you, brother, and Happy International Siblings Day.”
The brothers recalling the good old days of their childhood, from how they spent their weekends skateboarding to getting some good scolding from their parents for their mischiefs.
