Symbol Of Respecting Diversity

A historic moment for Police recruit, Constable Navjeath Singh, 20, as he becomes the first among the 217 police officers to wear a turban during the Fiji Police Force passing-out parade at the Police Academy Ground, Nasova, on Friday, December 15.

Four months ago, Constable Singh had the intuition that he would have to sacrifice some things in order to join the force.

However, after the passing-out parade, it became a memorable moment for the family as many looked up to him. “When I entered the Police Academy, I had it in my head that I might have to make some sacrifices.

However, I’m thankful to the Fiji Police Force for allowing Sikh officers like me to wear their turban on duty,” he said.

Constable Singh was at the University of the South Pacific studying Information and Technology course Certificate 5 level.

“As soon as I saw my name listed for the new recruits, I immediately left everything and moved here to Suva,” he said.

“Of course, I have plans on finishing my studies.”

His mother Laisa Sing, 43, said Constable Singh was the third person in the family to join the Fiji Police Force.

“He has a twin brother who is back at home, but among the three of my children, Javneath has always been the brightest and hardworking,” she shared.

Acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew said given the reality of the work, having different ethnic background helped them when they deal with victims, witnesses and complainants.

“Getting them in, they will understand how we approach them because if we only have Itaukei’s, we have different culture and norms and do visits to deal with them,” he said.

“Once we have these diverse capabilities within the organisation, it will enhance the work, it will easily benefit the people.”

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