SINGAPORE- The country's longest-serving police chief, Mr Goh Yong Hong, who introduced the community policing system here, died on Friday at the age of 76.

Mr Goh, who died at the Singapore General Hospital after being admitted two weeks ago for an illness, headed the police force from 1979 to 1992.

In a condolence message on Saturday, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said: "During his time as Commissioner of Police, he introduced the concept of community policing. I also knew him when he was a vice-president of the Singapore National Olympic Council. He had a deep passion for sports."

The Singapore Police Force said in a statement that Mr Goh introduced the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and formed the National Crime Prevention Council, both in 1981, and set up neighbourhood police posts in 1983.

The moves "marked a shift from reactive, investigation-based policing to a more proactive policing approach that emphasised prevention and community co-operation", the statement said.

"He was an exemplary leader who had built a strong foundation of professionalism and community trust for the police," said police commissioner Hoong Wee Teck of Mr Goh's leadership.

Mr Goh leaves his wife Teresa, 77, daughters France, 50, Dawn, 48, son Gerard, 42, and eight grandchildren.

The wake will be held until Monday night at Mount Vernon Sanctuary. A private funeral will be held on Tuesday.