COL (NS) Toh Han Li at SAFRA Jurong has always been a man of action, but above all else, duty.
A recipient of the Long Service Medal and Meritorious Service Award (Bronze), Han Li has been a strong advocate for National Servicemen and has contributed to our military command team. As Chairman of SAFRA Jurong’s Executive Committee, he now plays a key role in shaping the club’s offerings for members.
We caught up with this SAFRA volunteer to learn about his volunteering and NS journey, as well as take a retrospective look at SAFRA Jurong since it first opened its doors in 2009.
Leading a uniquely Singaporean brotherhood
Whether it is the animated army-specific colloquialisms, the many nights spent under the stars in the jungles or the rigorous physical training, National Service is undeniably a melting pot where people of vastly different backgrounds can find common ground through shared experiences.
“National Service really is a rare microcosm of Singapore that beautifully illustrates the vibrancy of our many communities. It expands our social bubble, allowing people to venture beyond their typical circles and social groups,” Han Li remarks.
Having taken over the reins of SAFRA Jurong’s Executive Committee in 2023, he strives to continue this legacy of community-building while preserving SAFRA’s enduring appreciation for our military front and back lines. “SAFRA is built upon a social foundation that values the connections, interactions and unity that are born out of our soldier’s commitment to our nation’s defense,” he shares, “That has been our mission since SAFRA’s inception 52 years ago and it is still our mission today.”
Alongside many of SAFRA’s stakeholders, Han Li and his executive committee have been exploring ways to enhance the club’s offerings, a diverse and modern mix of vendors to better serve members. “We continuously look at refreshing our spaces and introducing new experiences for our members to enjoy,” he shared.
A social fiesta at SAFRA Jurong
SAFRA Jurong has always found creative ways to best emulate its tagline – Playground at The Canopy – with frequent casual get-togethers, thematic festivals and exhilarating races.
“Just recently, we hosted an appreciation lunch for our volunteers. Piping hot food fresh from the BBQ pits, live music and shared banter under the stars – how much better can it get than this?” Han Li reminisces. And this is no rare occurrence. A beloved watering hole in the west side of our little red dot, SAFRA Jurong is constantly buzzing with activity, as observed by Han Li himself.
And one cannot discuss SAFRA Jurong without mentioning its flagship event – SAFRA Sprint Kids. Always incorporating creative and exciting themes, from military-inspired courses to ninja challenges, this annual event tests young participants on speed, dexterity, and endurance. Parents can also join in the fun, providing both physical and emotional support as they race alongside their children.
“I fondly remember serving as the starter for the event, waving the flag as the children set off. It was heartwarming to watch parents enthusiastically cheering their children on as they navigated SOC-inspired stations like the Rubble and Stepping Tyres,” he recalls.
SAFRA Sprint Kids joins an already extensive catalogue of festivities and workshops that are designed to accommodate the needs of National Servicemen and SAFRA members, of which Han Li acknowledges to be ‘evolving’. From its Little Explorer activity series for NSmen with young families to the Neon Night Fest for nightlife revellers, SAFRA Jurong has been working round the clock with Han Li to give not just National Servicemen, but their loved ones and friends a year-round fiesta of events and activities.
“It is important that we never stop exploring new ways to stay relevant, all the while reaching out to a wide-ranging array of communities that make up our military,” he emphasises, “Pickleball is the hottest sport at the moment, and members love to play on our court and mingle with fellow pickleball enthusiasts (Find out how to book a court here)!”
A man who loves food and his community
Prior to his induction into the SAFRA family in 2017, Han Li was already a huge fan of its culinary offerings. And he could go on for days about the various food spots housed in this recreational hub. “If you’re looking for something more continental, the steak at Jack’s Place is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Of course, for something with a spicy kick, Springleaf Prata has some of the most whimsical adaptations of the conventional prata. Oh, and every foodie has to visit Rasa Istimewa at least once if they enjoy good ol’ classic zichar – plus, it’s halal too! As for food outside the club…” Han Li effuses.
It is evident during our conversation that it is more than just food for him; it’s the shared experiences that it brings to the table. “Our job here stems from a real passion to serve the community. And just like food and our time in National Service, a community thrives when it’s cultivated in an environment that proactively fosters collaborations!” he reflects.
As our time together was coming to an end, Han Li wanted to end our interview with a message for our readers, “While the perks and deals that we offer here at SAFRA are really attractive, our hope is to transform SAFRA Jurong into a space where fellow National Servicemen and their families can strengthen existing bonds while forging new ones. I hope to see you here soon!”
Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!
