In response to ongoing recruitment challenges, the Singapore government will increase starting salaries for new local bus captains by S$450 (approximately US$352) per month, effective January 1, 2027. Additionally, sign-on bonuses will rise by S$2,000, allowing new drivers to earn up to S$600 more monthly during their first year. This initiative aims to address the declining proportion of local bus captains, which fell from 54% in 2021 to 41% in 2025, as an aging workforce leaves the industry. Current bus captains will also receive a one-time salary adjustment to ensure their pay remains competitive. Public bus operators have previously offered substantial sign-on bonuses, with some reaching S$20,000, to attract new talent. The Land Transport Authority and the National Transport Workers’ Union emphasized the need for a strong pipeline of bus captains to maintain and enhance public bus services. The recent salary adjustments reflect a commitment to improve working conditions and make the profession more appealing to younger Singaporeans.