Muhammad Syakir Bin Kamal

I applied for scholarships with two main reasons in mind – first, to start a career in a particular organisation I was interested in and second, to have financial security through university, given that my parents were retiring. 

Although I had an offer from a private sector company, I eventually chose the PSC scholarship as I wanted to have the opportunity to be directly involved in Singapore’s story of growth as a nation. The prospect of working in the various public sector domains (social, economy, infrastructure and environment etc.) also attracted me. 

The PSC organised multiple programmes and internship opportunities during my academic journey. I applied for the internship to get a taster of work in the Public Service. On the other hand, the development programmes aim to prepare scholarship holders for work in the Public Service and allowed me to connect with other officers (both new and experienced colleagues), which in hindsight provided me a good foundation to start my career. 

I have been posted to the Ministry of Sustainability and Environment (MSE), Ministry of Manpower (MOM), and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY). 

Each posting has been meaningful and challenging in its own ways.  

• In MSE, where I worked on climate change issues, I learnt the importance of whole-of-government effort and understood that there are always trade-offs when making decisions.

• In MOM, where I was part of the COVID-19 recovery team, time was of the essence and decisive actions often had to be made.

• Currently in MCCY, I work with my team on social policies that must be delicately balanced to ensure that our society continues to have common space to forge strong bonds.

All in all, although challenging, I have the privilege of working with the most passionate colleagues who understand the implications of the work that we do.

Some people have the perception that a junior officer in the Public Service does not have much say in key areas of work. I find this to be untrue. I am grateful to have good leaders who not only nurture me, but give me space and opportunity to express my views. Everyone and anyone can make a difference 

Teamwork. Work in the Public Service is challenging and the breadth of work means that we could sometimes find ourselves out of our comfort zone. But what makes the public sector successful I feel, is the passion and collective effort of all public officers towards achieving the common good. #OneTeamOneDream 

This is a major commitment that I understand is difficult to make at a young age. As an individual, you will need to have an interest in government policies. You should also try to speak to seniors who have taken up the scholarship or started their careers to see if their experience resonates with you. If it does, go for it, and be prepared for a great journey ahead of you!