Since he stepped into the security industry four and a half years ago, security supervisor Foo Chay Hui has been proactive in arming himself with Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) courses to climb the ranks. This is even before the security Progressive Wage Model (PWM) kicked in last year.
“I already found it important to upgrade and upskill myself at the time. It was not because I thought I would get promoted faster with the certificates, but I found the knowledge useful in doing my job well,” said the 44-year-old, who used to run a money changer business before becoming a security officer.
Mr Foo was one of those who made the cut to remain a security supervisor with the enforcement of the PWM.
“Some of my colleagues under me faced difficulties in fulfilling the requirements under PWM. So I took my time to train them on the job. As a supervisor, it was my duty to make sure they qualified. I also made sure I monitored my men in their progress,” he said.
He also said that the PWM is a good effort in helping to standardise the jobs in the security industry.
“Last time, the pay can be different between officers even though they were doing the same job. However, now it is clear that to receive a certain amount, to be qualified to do certain tasks, or to hold a certain rank, you must be qualified,” he said.
Better Career
Mr Foo’s employer, Soverus, gives officers two wage increments a year. Based on the security officer’s performance, the increment can range from $25 to $75 each time.
Mr Foo is currently taking up advance module certificates to qualify for a senior security officer promotion, which will see his basic pay go up to at least $1,700 in accordance with the PWM wage ladder. He hopes to complete all the modules within three months.
He also has plans to take additional courses to widen his security skillsets.
“I like the challenge of my job, especially when you get to handle different situations. The best part is that with each challenge, there is a different solution. So this is where my training comes in handy,” said Mr Foo.
