Shock! Bus Driver Salaries in Singapore Hit Rp 60 Million

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The income of bus drivers in Singapore is quite competitive, with plans for a salary increase starting next year.

There are four main bus operators in Singapore: SBS Transit, SMRT Buses, Go-Ahead Singapore, and Tower Transit Singapore. Each company has different salary policies.

According to Dollar and Sense, the highest offer comes from SBS Transit, which reaches SGD 4,500 (Rp 62 million) for local bus drivers. This salary includes a recruitment and training incentive package of up to SGD 25,000 (Rp 345 million).

Bus drivers working for SMRT are entitled to a monthly salary of up to SGD 4,000 (Rp 55.2 million), including bonuses of up to SGD 30,000 (Rp 414 million) for Singapore citizens and permanent residents.

Meanwhile, operator Go-Ahead Singapore states that their bus drivers receive a monthly salary of SGD 4,200 or Rp 57.9 million, with a recruitment bonus of up to SGD 20,000 or Rp 276 million.

A new policy in 2027 will increase the starting income for new local bus drivers by SGD 450 (Rp 6.2 million) per month. This funding comes from the government through an agreement between the Land Transport Authority (LTA), the National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU), and the four operators.

The recruitment bonus will also increase by SGD 2,000 (Rp 27.6 million). Most new local bus drivers in 2027 are likely to receive a monthly salary of more than SGD 4,000, including basic pay, overtime, allowances, and bonuses.

Bus drivers, sometimes referred to as bus captains in Singapore, are responsible for ensuring passengers are transported on time and safely along designated routes. They may also work shifts with long hours, covering mornings, late nights, and weekends. These drivers also provide customer service to passengers who need assistance, such as users of public transport.