Singapore’s first dedicated residential facility for bus drivers opens next to Sengkang West Depot

Singapore’s first dedicated housing facility for bus drivers has officially opened, marking a significant milestone in the city-state’s efforts to improve working conditions for transportation workers. Located next to the Sengkang West Bus Depot, the eight-storey complex offers a unique living solution tailored specifically for Chinese bus drivers employed by SBS Transit (SBST). The facility, named SQ@Sengkang West, was launched on June 29, providing a convenient and modern living environment for those who operate buses from the nearby depot.

The housing project is situated along Seletar West Road 2, directly connected to the depot via a turnstile entrance. This proximity allows drivers to reach their workplace within minutes, significantly reducing commuting time. The facility comprises 39 fully furnished apartments capable of accommodating 234 residents. Currently, all 198 SBS Transit bus drivers from China based at the Sengkang West Depot have moved in, achieving an occupancy rate of approximately 85 percent. These drivers began relocating in batches from late May, with the process continuing over several months.

According to SBST Group Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Sim, the housing arrangement is exclusive to Chinese bus drivers due to specific clauses in their employment contracts that mandate accommodation. In contrast, Singaporean drivers typically return home after their shifts, while many Malaysian drivers cross the Causeway to their residences in Johor Bahru. Previously, Chinese drivers resided in HDB flats rented by SBST, paying only for utilities. Now, they continue to cover utility expenses but benefit from the convenience of living closer to their workplace.

The current residents represent about 20 percent of the Chinese bus drivers hired by SBST. As of the end of 2025, the company employed a total of 5,459 bus drivers. The development of this housing facility took eight years, aligning with the commencement of operations at the adjacent depot in January 2025. Each apartment includes three bedrooms with two beds each, air conditioning, and a bathroom equipped with three shower cubicles and three toilets—either Western-style or squat. Additional amenities such as a kitchen with three stove tops, two refrigerators, two washing machines, and two dryers are provided, along with a communal dining room.

Feedback from the bus drivers played a crucial role in shaping the design of the facility. Features such as extra storage space under the beds, bedside tables, dryers for quicker clothing drying, and privacy walls between beds were incorporated based on their suggestions. The decision to use two larger-capacity refrigerators instead of three smaller ones was also influenced by driver preferences, allowing for better storage of larger items. On the first floor, a multi-purpose room featuring carrom boards, table tennis tables, and a television lounge provides recreational opportunities for residents.

The National Transport Workers Union, under the National Trades Union Congress, plans to deploy a mobile minimart to the facility biweekly starting from July 10. Senior bus captains like Tian Yinfu, who has driven with SBST for 17 years, appreciate the reduced commute time, enabling them to prepare for their shifts more efficiently. Previously, he required up to 50 minutes to commute from his flat in Hougang, whereas now he can wake up just 20 minutes before his shift begins. Similarly, senior bus captain Wei Lanhui values the ability to return home immediately after completing her shift, cutting down her commute from an hour to just five minutes.

The Sengkang West Bus Depot, which opened in January 2025, serves as the primary location for this innovative housing initiative. It is designed to support the deployment of large-scale electric buses, reflecting Singapore’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility. The facility is managed by co-living operator Coliwoo, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance. While the housing is provided free of charge as part of employment terms, drivers still bear the cost of utilities. The project is developed collaboratively by the Land Transport Authority and the depot, emphasizing the importance of incorporating user feedback to create a comfortable and functional living environment.

The National Transport Workers' Union is advocating for similar accommodations for Singaporean and permanent resident bus drivers, although many prefer returning home after work due to family commitments. The union continues to push for enhanced rest facilities for all drivers, particularly those managing split shifts. With the successful implementation of this pilot project, future developments may explore expanding such housing solutions to cater to a broader range of workers, further enhancing the quality of life for those contributing to Singapore’s essential transportation network.